Français »
German "
Search
April 18, 2025

More articles from the category

April 18, 2025

Edelweiss cabin crew agree to new employment contract

Belinda Borg 18 April 2025 11:06

The cabin crew of the Swiss airline Edelweiss has approved the new collective agreement "GAV25" with an overwhelming majority of 91,9 percent. As the airline announced, the new collective agreement is intended to improve working conditions on board and will take effect on May 1, 2025. Approval was granted with over 80 percent employee participation. The new agreement has a minimum term of five years and applies to the approximately 880 cabin crew members. Edelweiss expressed its delight at the clear vote and emphasized that GAV25, following the approval of the pilot collective agreement last year, represents an important foundation for the company's future stability and growth. With the introduction of six new Airbus A350s, the leisure airline also begins a new chapter in its long-haul business. Fleet growth is leading to an increased need for qualified personnel both in the cockpit and in the cabin, which is why Edelweiss is continuously recruiting new employees. The new collective agreement is intended to ensure modern working conditions and thus strengthen Edelweiss's attractiveness as an employer. The agreement with the cabin crew is considered an important step for Edelweiss to remain competitive in the long term and successfully meet the challenges of the aviation market. The new collective agreement is intended to meet both the needs of the employees and the airline's operational requirements.

Continue reading "

Russia hopes for aircraft deal with Boeing in return for ceasefire in Ukraine

Stephen Steiner 18 April 2025 10:01

Given that it lacks access to hundreds of billions of US dollars in its central bank's foreign assets, Russia is considering an unusual deal with the United States, according to a media report. The Kremlin is speculating on purchasing aircraft from the US manufacturer Boeing and paying for them from the currently frozen foreign accounts. This initiative follows reports that China has halted all aircraft deliveries from Boeing in the trade war with the US, and that Russia has reportedly asked Washington about a possible resumption of its airlines' business relations with Boeing. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, business between Western aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing and Russian airlines has been strictly prohibited by sanctions. In 2022, Moscow seized control of around 400 to 500 Western-designed aircraft, mainly from lessors, and subsequently only purchased a few aircraft from leased contracts. Now, according to news agencies, Russia is exploring a direct deal with Washington that would involve the purchase of Boeing aircraft using frozen central bank assets. The report cites a ceasefire in the Ukraine war as a key condition for unlocking the accounts and resuming aircraft deliveries. However, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council clarified to Bloomberg that the United States will not consider any economic easing until a ceasefire is reached. Western states are estimated to have blocked around $300 billion in Russian reserves, including €210 billion in the European Union alone. Three years after the start of the war, Russian airlines such as Aeroflot are experiencing worsening fleet and spare parts shortages, especially as the development of purely Russian aircraft programs

Continue reading "

Poland bans photo and video recordings of critical infrastructure, including airports

Stephen Steiner 18 April 2025 09:05

New, stricter rules for taking photographs and videos of certain objects and in designated zones came into force in Poland this week. This ban is intended to counter espionage and explicitly includes recordings made for purely private purposes. In addition to government buildings and military installations, it also affects critical infrastructure such as bridges, tunnels, trains, post offices, power stations and substations, port facilities, and airports. The new regulations provide for severe penalties for violations. In addition to hefty fines, offenders face imprisonment. Furthermore, the equipment used for recording, including mobile phones in certain cases, can be confiscated by the authorities. The affected areas and objects are marked with highly visible signs indicating the existing recording ban. This measure is part of a broader amendment to the National Defense and Counter-Espionage Act and responds to increased security concerns in Europe. The law is believed to be aimed at better protecting sensitive infrastructure from potential espionage activities. The new rules could particularly affect travelers and citizens who unknowingly find themselves in the restricted zones and take photographs there. Professional photographers and journalists may be able to apply for special permits to take photographs in the affected areas. The relevant authorities have 14 days to process such applications. It remains to be seen how the new regulations will impact everyday life and how consistently compliance with the ban will be enforced.

Continue reading "

China Southern Airlines stops selling its Boeing 787-8 fleet

Stephen Steiner 18 April 2025 08:32

China Southern Airlines, one of the three major state-owned airlines in the People's Republic of China, has unexpectedly withdrawn the planned sale of its entire Boeing 787-8 fleet. In November 2024, the company had announced its intention to dispose of all ten aircraft of this type, along with two associated spare GEnx-1B70/P2 engines. The aircraft were listed for sale on the Shanghai State Assets and Equity Securities Exchange in the first quarter of 2025. The decision to halt sales was made public on April 11, 2025 – just four days before a significant announcement by the Chinese government prohibiting further deliveries of Boeing aircraft to Chinese airlines. Fleet adjustment from a business perspective The original intention to sell the Boeing 787-8 fleet resulted from an internal fleet analysis that focused on business considerations. The 787-8 is the smallest variant within the Boeing 787 family and, since its operational use, has been considered less economical by several international airlines than its larger sister models, the 787-9 and 787-10. China Southern Airlines currently operates a mix of these types, with the 787-9 increasingly preferred due to its longer range and greater passenger capacity. Delivered between 2013 and 2014, the affected aircraft were approaching the time of extensive structural maintenance cycles, which are associated with high costs. The disposal of the fleet would have enabled the company to concentrate on newer and more efficient aircraft types, particularly as domestic manufacturers such as Comac are gaining increasing importance in the Chinese market. Political influences on corporate decisions The withdrawal from the sale coincided with a period of heightened geopolitical tensions between China and the United States. For several months, both

Continue reading "

ARBÖ recommends a spring check for bicycles

Belinda Borg 18 April 2025 08:08

With the onset of warmer weather, many people are drawn back to their bikes. However, the Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Cyclists' Association (ARBÖ) strongly recommends a thorough check of their bikes before their first long ride in spring. Regular maintenance and care not only increase the lifespan of the bike, but also contribute significantly to safety and riding pleasure. This check should ideally begin with a thorough cleaning. Potential defects are easier to identify on a clean bike. Warm water, a little dish soap, and a sponge or rag are usually sufficient for cleaning. For more stubborn dirt that may have accumulated over the winter, the ARBÖ recommends special cleaning agents available from specialist retailers. The use of a high-pressure cleaner is not recommended, as this can force water into the bearings and seals, causing damage. Another important point is chain care. It should first be cleaned of old oil and dirt with a dry cloth and then treated with new chain spray. Excess oil should be wiped off. If you wish, you can also treat other moving parts such as the joints and the rear derailleur with special bicycle oil to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Particular attention should be paid to the gear system. It's advisable to check whether the shift cables run smoothly and undamaged through their housings, and whether the rear derailleur operates without jamming or jumping. A quick functional test will determine whether all gears shift smoothly. Experienced cyclists can perform minor adjustments themselves, but if you are unsure or experience major problems, a specialist should be consulted.

Continue reading "

Iberia surprises with night transatlantic connection: New winter flight times to Dallas/Fort Worth

Stephen Steiner 18 April 2025 07:37

The Spanish airline Iberia is making a significant change to its service between Madrid and Dallas/Fort Worth for its 2025 winter flight schedule. Starting October 26, 2025, the flight will depart from Madrid four times a week at 00.55:05.30 a.m. local time and land in Texas at 330:300 a.m. local time – a highly unusual flight time for passenger traffic between Europe and North America. With this strategy, Iberia aims to strengthen its competitiveness and expand its market share in North America. Most scheduled flights from Europe to the United States traditionally depart in the morning or early afternoon to allow for an afternoon or evening arrival. Iberia is breaking with this pattern with a night connection, more typical for flights to South America. The new schedule will see the Airbus A00.55-05.30 depart Madrid at 35:XNUMX a.m. and arrive in Dallas/Fort Worth at XNUMX:XNUMX a.m. – after a flight time of approximately eleven hours and XNUMX minutes. This unusual frequency has practical reasons: The late departure from the capital's Madrid-Barajas airport allows for numerous connecting flights from Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The early arrival in Texas, in turn, opens up a wide range of connecting flights with partner American Airlines – a decisive advantage in a highly competitive market. Cooperation with American Airlines is of key importance. The connection to Dallas/Fort Worth is offered as part of the transatlantic partnership between Iberia, American Airlines, British Airways, and Finnair. This cooperation within the Oneworld airline alliance allows for close coordination of flight schedules and joint fare setting. Iberia benefits from the dense domestic route network of

Continue reading "

Ryanair calls for an end to air traffic tax for massive expansion in Germany

Belinda Borg 18 April 2025 07:02

The Irish airline Ryanair, which claims to be Europe's largest, is planning a significant expansion of its business in Germany. The company announced on Wednesday that it plans to more than double its annual passenger traffic in the country to 34 million passengers. This expansion, which also includes investing three billion US dollars in new aircraft, creating 1.000 jobs, and opening new routes, is conditional on the new German government completely abolishing the air traffic tax and halving air traffic control and security fees. Ryanair argues that Germany has one of the weakest aviation markets in Europe, achieving only 80 percent of its pre-crisis level. The airline cites excessive access costs, consisting of taxes, air traffic control and security fees, and high airport charges, as the main cause. While Ryanair welcomes the current government's reversal of the increase in the air traffic tax as a step in the right direction, it stresses that this is not enough to halt the downward trend in the German aviation market. Germany remains too expensive compared to other European countries, particularly in view of other EU countries that have further reduced their access costs through tax abolitions. Eddie Wilson of Ryanair called on the German government to abolish what he considers to be the harmful air traffic tax and to at least halve air traffic control and security fees in order to facilitate a sustainable recovery of German air traffic and the overall economy. He pointed to examples from other European countries that have been able to attract targeted investment from airlines by abolishing air traffic taxes. If the German government implements the required measures, Ryanair is ready to implement the growth plan it has already presented and make a significant contribution to Germany's economic recovery in the

Continue reading "

Global Airlines launches A380 debut: New transatlantic connections from May 2025

Amely Mizzi 18 April 2025 06:38

A British newcomer is taking the leap across the Atlantic – with a superjumbo and ambitious plans. The British airline Global Airlines has opened advance sales for its first transatlantic flights. Starting in May 2025, passengers will be able to travel non-stop from Glasgow and Manchester to New York-JFK. The flights will be operated using an Airbus A380, the world's largest passenger jet, which the company has fully acquired. The planned flights are scheduled as follows: Ticket prices vary depending on class and route. Economy class tickets start at around 219 pounds (approximately 290 US dollars) for the New York-Manchester route. Business class tickets cost between 1.605 and 2.042 pounds (approximately 2.129 to 2.711 US dollars), while first class prices range from 2.726 to 3.502 pounds (approximately 3.617 to 4.650 US dollars). Partnership with Hi Fly: Operation without its own operating license Although Global Airlines markets its flights under its own name, the company does not currently have its own operating license (AOC). Therefore, flight operations are initially handled by the Portuguese wet-lease provider Hi Fly. The flights will be operated with the Airbus A380, which is registered under Hi Fly's Maltese AOC. Hi Fly brings extensive experience in operating used A380 aircraft. The company was the first to successfully commission a second-hand A380. The collaboration with Hi Fly allows Global Airlines to commence flight operations while simultaneously working on obtaining its own operating license. The Fleet: Acquisition of used A380 aircraft Global Airlines has so far acquired two used Airbus A380s. The first, formerly with Singapore Airlines

Continue reading "

Czech tourists are drawn to spring short trips to European capitals

Amely Mizzi 18 April 2025 06:08

Czech travelers are increasingly taking advantage of the spring break and the upcoming long weekends in May for short city trips to European cities. According to current sales data from the airline ticket portal Student Agency Travel, London, Barcelona, ​​and Paris are particularly popular this spring. Shorter stays of four to five days maximum are proving to be a popular option, especially during the May holidays, which offer a variety of travel options without the need for a longer vacation. The top 10 travel destinations for long weekends in 2025 include, in addition to the frontrunners London, Barcelona, ​​and Paris, Rome, Istanbul, Malaga, Edinburgh, Madrid, Naples, and Athens. Student Agency Travel has observed a significant increase in the popularity of so-called "Euroweekends," short trips from Thursday to Sunday or Monday. Travelers are therefore looking for destinations that are easily accessible by direct flight and also offer a rich cultural and gastronomic offering. Compared to the previous year, there have been slight shifts in the ranking of the most popular travel destinations. While New York, Antalya, Amsterdam, and Ponta Delgada were among the top 2024 in 10, this year they were replaced by Edinburgh, Madrid, Naples, and Athens. However, London maintained its top position and continues to record the most bookings. The changes in average ticket prices for the May holidays compared to 2024 are also striking. Some destinations, such as Malaga, Rome, and London, have become significantly cheaper, while Paris and Barcelona have seen price increases. Despite these price developments, airline tickets for the long May weekends are still available at attractive prices. For example, Student Agency offers flights to London from CZK 1787, to Barcelona from CZK 3526, and to Rome from CZK 3364.

Continue reading "

Universal Air expands route network: New connections between Germany, Hungary and Italy

Amely Mizzi 18 April 2025 05:31

The Maltese airline Universal Air is further expanding its European route network. Since the end of March 2025, the airline has been connecting Leipzig/Halle with Debrecen in Hungary. Furthermore, a new connection between Munich and Rimini on Italy's Adriatic coast will launch on May 29, 2025. With these new routes, Universal Air is continuing its strategy of serving less frequented routes, appealing to both business and leisure travelers. On March 30, 2025, Universal Air began scheduled service between Leipzig/Halle and Debrecen. The route will be served twice a week, Thursdays and Sundays, with a 8-seat De Havilland Canada Dash 400-78. The route connects the Saxon metropolis with Hungary's second-largest city, known for its university, cultural attractions, and thermal baths. This connection is aimed at both tourists and business travelers. Debrecen offers access to the Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is an important center for education and research in Hungary. New connection: Munich – Rimini. Starting May 29, 2025, Universal Air will launch a new connection between Munich and Rimini. Flights will operate every Thursday until October 23, 2025. Rimini, known for its beaches and historic sites, is a popular destination on Italy's Adriatic coast. The route will also be served by a Dash 8-400, providing an efficient connection between southern Germany and the Italian Riviera. This new route expands the range of options for holidaymakers and strengthens the tourist connection between Germany and Italy. It also offers an alternative to existing connections and could be particularly attractive to travelers from Bavaria.

Continue reading "

Navigation

Visit us on

Facebook f X-twitter Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Telegram rss Threads Google Hm-mail-open Wordpress
login logo

Aviation.Direct is published with love in and