One Travel Agent Will Live Free For A Year Courtesy Of Etihad Airways In New Agents' Incentive

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:08:09 GMT

Etihad Airways today launched a trade incentive promotion whereby the airline will cover the cost of living expenses for one travel agent in the UK for an entire year.

One grand prize will include funds to cover personal bills for rent/mortgage, utilities, transportation and groceries.

To enter, travel agents must first register at www.etihad.com/livefree. Once registered, agents can log in to the site to enter details of Etihad Airways flight bookings made during the entry period, February and March. Points will be awarded for each booking made: five points for Diamond First Class; three points for Pearl Business Class; and one point for Coral Economy Class.

To be eligible to “Live Free for a Year”, an agent must accumulate 12 points during the entry period. One grand prize winner will be randomly drawn from the eligible entrants.

Etihad Airways will also offer mini prizes of an iPad and an iPhone every weekday throughout the promotional period. Agents with any number of booking entries submitted during the respective week are eligible to win in the weekly draws.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “To live for free for an entire year with the peace of mind that all personal living expenses will be taken care of is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to our valued travel agent community.

“Our trade partners act as our brand ambassadors abroad, bringing our brand to a wider base of clientele, and we hope to show with this promotion the immense gratitude we have for our loyal supporters.”

Terms and Conditions apply: The promotion is valid for travel agents issuing tickets on Etihad Airways. The promotion is valid for tickets issued between 1 - 29 February 2012 and flown between 1 February and 30 June 2012. All travel must be completed before 30 June 2012. Valid for tickets issued to all destinations, across all fare subclasses, on published and promotional fares. Valid for tickets issued for one-way and return journeys. Valid on tickets issued for children and infants. Valid on tickets issued on both Etihad operated and marketed flights provided that on routes which are served by Etihad, the operating carrier is Etihad. Usual booking terms and conditions apply and all bookings are subject to availability. For detailed terms and conditions, please visit etihad.com/livefree

Etihad Airways Continues Africa Expansion With New Flights to Lagos, Nigeria

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:02:08 GMT

Etihad Airways today announced the launch of flights to Lagos, the airline’s first destination in West Africa, from July 1, subject to regulatory approvals.

The direct flights will link Abu Dhabi and Lagos six times a week and will be operated by a two class A330-200 aircraft with 22 Pearl Business class and 240 Coral Economy seats.

Lagos becomes the 83rd destination in Etihad Airways’ global network and the return flights will create a new link between Nigeria, Africa’s third largest economy, and the United Arab Emirates.

Following the launch of flights to the Seychelles in November 2011, Tripoli last month and Nairobi in April, the addition of Nigeria marks another milestone in Etihad Airways’ African expansion plans.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “The launch of services to Lagos is consistent with our strategy of targeting areas of strong growth in emerging markets.

“The United Arab Emirates is a major trade partner of Nigeria, which has a population of more than 150 million people, the largest in Africa and the seventh biggest in the world.

“The country is rich in natural resources, such as oil and natural gas. Our new point-to-point services will strengthen the oil and gas links between the UAE and Nigeria and facilitate further growth in these industries.

”The country is also enjoying strong economic growth driven by significant foreign investment, particularly from China, which means there is increasing demand for travel between Lagos and other emerging economies.

“The Lagos schedule will provide seamless connections over Abu Dhabi to Asian destinations and markets in the Indian Subcontinent and Australia."

Aircraft configuration: A330-200; 22 Pearl Business Class & 240 Coral Economy Class.

npower installs solar power at Birmingham Airport

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:37:50 GMT

npower will help Birmingham Airport to save 22 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year with the installation of 200 solar panels on the roof of its terminal. The 1.6m x 1m panels will generate 40,000 kWh a year; sufficient to power 12 average sized houses.

The Airport has worked in partnership with npower to install the 50kpw solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to provide renewable green energy on-site as it reduces its dependency on mains power electricity.

This is the first renewable energy and zero carbon installation on the Airport site and is part of a wider project to improve its energy management and reduce its carbon footprint.

The solar PV panels capture the sun’s energy using photovoltaic cells, which then convert the sunlight into electricity and even on cloudy days can still produce some electricity, making it incredibly efficient. The system also generates no greenhouse gases, helping the Airport reduce its carbon footprint.

Paul Kehoe, the Airport’s CEO, said: "It's exciting for the Airport to present such a visible commitment to energy reduction. Managing our greenhouse gas emissions is a high priority for the company and we're always seeking new opportunities to work with partners to reduce our carbon footprint."

As a leading provider of solar PV in the UK for commercial properties, npower was selected to carry out the installation in partnership with Photon Energy. From initial meetings in October, npower was able to complete full site surveys, detailed designs, installation and commissioning in just over six weeks, ensuring the Airport could immediately benefit from the green energy. As a result, there has already been a reduction in energy consumption since the panels were installed in December.

Graham Ryott, Development Manager at npower, added: "Birmingham Airport is committed to a sustainable future so installing solar PV as a way of generating energy is fundamental to its on-going programme in reducing its environmental impact. As one of the busiest Airports in the country, Birmingham is understandably a large energy user but supplementing its energy use with on-site generation is a positive step for the site’s future and npower is delighted to be involved."

An added incentive of solar PV is the Government's Feed-in-Tariffs (FITs), which provide payment to the companies for every unit of electricity generated by solar PV panels.*

For more information about Birmingham Airport and its environmental programmes, please visit www.birminghamairport.co.uk.

- Ends -

Notes to Editors:
* The current levels of FITs are applicable for installations that are completed and registered by March 2012. A 21p rate will come into effect from April 2012 for solar PV installations which become eligible for FITs on or after 3 March. For further information please visit www.decc.gov.uk

Birmingham Airport is a public/private partnership. The current shareholders include the seven West Midlands district councils (49%), Airport Group Investments Ltd. (AGIL), a limited company owned by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan (Teachers') and Australia’s Victorian Funds Management Corp. (VFMC)(48.25%) and the Employee Share Trust (2.75%).

Birmingham Airport is the UK's third largest airport outside London, and the UK’s seventh largest overall, handling some nine million passengers a year.

Birmingham currently serves 143 direct scheduled & charter routes and offers an additional 279 possible connections worldwide. This gives passengers a choice of 422 direct or one-stop flights.

Find out more about Birmingham Airport at www.birminghamairport.co.uk or on Twitter at bhx_official.

About npower
npower is one of the UK's largest electricity suppliers and has 6.6 million customer accounts across the UK.

npower has been awarded platinum status in Business in the Community's CR Index and is one of twenty-nine companies to have achieved the CommunityMark since its launch. All CommunityMark achievers have been recognised for demonstrating excellence in their holistic and strategic approach to community investment.

Air Seychelles Announces Flights to Abu Dhabi

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:55:41 GMT

Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of the Seychelles, today announced details of its new direct flights from Mahé to Abu Dhabi.

This follows last week’s announcement that Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, would form a strategic partnership by taking a 40 per cent stake in the airline.

Complementing Etihad Airways’ existing four weekly services from Abu Dhabi to Mahé, March 12 will see Air Seychelles inaugurate two weekly return services on the route. Effectively, the new schedule will offer six direct services per week between Abu Dhabi and Mahé, increasing to seven per week from June 2012.

These Air Seychelles flights will operate on a Boeing 767-300ER series aircraft, in a two-class configuration, offering a total of 844 seats each week.

The new flights are on sale from today.

A key benefit to travellers of the new Air Seychelles non-stop Mahé-Abu Dhabi service is convenient flight arrival and departure times and connectivity from Mahé with Etihad Airways’ codeshare flights through Abu Dhabi to the Far East, flights to Australia, the Indian Subcontinent and the Gulf region.

Etihad Airways guests, particularly from key feeder markets of Germany, France, Italy, Belgium and the United Kingdom, will also benefit from the increased connectivity options in travel to Mahé and onward destinations across the Air Seychelles network, such as Mauritius and flights to Johannesburg.

Cramer Ball, Air Seychelles Chief Executive Officer, said: “The Seychelles have already proven to be a hugely popular holiday destination amongst Etihad Airways guests. With these additional two Air Seychelles weekly flights, we look forward to successfully serving the route, tourism and business at each end and beyond.”

Etihad Airways commenced services itself to the Seychelles on November 2, 2011.

Air Seychelles Appoints Cramer Ball As Chief Executive Officer

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:00:05 GMT

Minister Joel Morgan, the Minister responsible for Transport in the Government of Seychelles, and Mr James Hogan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, have today announced that Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, has appointed Cramer Ball as Chief Executive Officer, with effect from February 1, 2012 under the management contract that it has with Etihad Airways, its new strategic partner.

The Minister stated that the President of Seychelles, President James Michel has welcomed the arrival of a strong management team from Etihad to orient Air Seychelles on a robust and secure footing, in order to position it for future development to serve Seychelles’ tourism industry internationally.

Mr Ball, who was formerly Etihad Airways Regional General Manager Asia Pacific South and Australasia, has been seconded to the Seychelles national carrier as part of the restructuring for Air Seychelles which will be implemented jointly with Etihad Airways.

With a wealth of broad-based industry experience, which encompasses both commercial and financial areas of the business, Mr Ball is a highly respected aviation professional.

Before joining Etihad Airways, in a career spanning two decades, he held senior management positions at Gulf Air, Qantas, Kendell Airlines and Ansett Australia/Air New Zealand.

Commenting on his new role, Air Seychelles Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ball said: “This is a very exciting point in the development of the airline. The recently announced strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, backed by the 40 per cent stake the UAE national carrier has taken, will allow us to consolidate our position as a brand leader on the routes we serve.

“Air Seychelles will work closely with Etihad Airways to leverage synergies and create efficiencies that will reduce costs and maximise yields. We will also look to implement strategies that will benefit the economy and support the tourism industry of the Seychelles as a whole.”

Shelley Cole has also been seconded to Air Seychelles to take on the position of Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. Prior to joining Air Seychelles, Ms Cole, who is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, was Etihad Airways Regional Finance Manager Asia Pacific, and has also held positions at Shell International Ltd in London and Caltex in Sydney.

Etihad Airways Offers Complimentary UAE Visas

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:57:32 GMT

Etihad Airways is offering complimentary 96-hour tourist visas to guests transiting through the UAE, effective immediately. The visas, ideal for travellers making stopover visits en route to their final destination, are being offered in cooperation with Radisson Blu hotel on Yas Island.

The offer is valid for travellers previously eligible for Etihad Airways’ paid-for visa service (available at a cost of AED 300), including passport holders from Bangladesh, Belarus, Canada, China, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Morocco, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam.

Eligible guests must have confirmed overnight accommodation at the Radisson Blu Yas Island, available at promotional rates from USD 70 per person per night.

To book accommodation and apply for a complimentary visa, guests can visit etihad.com/freeuaevisa. A passport copy and passport-sized photograph are required for processing visa applications.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Not only is Abu Dhabi the place where East meets West, making it ideal for transiting to destinations worldwide, but it is also a world-class destination in its own right. With complimentary visa services on offer, more Etihad Airways guests will have the opportunity to experience the signature Arabic hospitality and exciting attractions of the UAE in a convenient and affordable way.”

Guests booking a 3-night stay will also receive a complimentary Abu Dhabi City Tour. Hala Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways’ destination management company, is available to all guests for booking custom itineraries, attractions and tours (halaabudhabi.com).

Citizens of the following countries are allowed to enter the UAE without a visa prior to arrival as long as they are carrying a valid passport that will not expire within six months of their arrival date: Australia; Andorra; Austria; Brunei; Belgium; Denmark; Finland; France; Germany; Greece; Hong Kong; Iceland; Ireland; Italy; Japan; Liechtenstein; Luxembourg; Malaysia; Monaco; Netherlands; New Zealand; Norway; Portugal; San Marino; Singapore; South Korea; Spain; Sweden; Switzerland; United Kingdom; United States of America; and The Vatican. Immigration officials may grant a tourist visa, which is valid for 30 days, on arrival at the port of entry.

Etihad Airways Selects New Media Agencies

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:33:42 GMT

Etihad Airways has recently concluded a tender process to select global media agency partners.

MediaCom, part of the WPP group, has been selected to manage above-the-line media planning and buying. LBi has been selected to manage digital media strategy, search and affiliate marketing.

Both agencies will service the account globally from Abu Dhabi.

The selection is an outcome of a routine agency review process during which Etihad Airways invited select global media agency networks to respond to a creative and media brief.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Etihad Airways is the fastest growing airline in the history of commercial aviation, so we sought out media agencies that can not only keep up with our pace of growth, but also help us bring our brand to a global audience in a more innovative and effective way.

“This is the first time we have split our ATL and digital media into separate contracts, which we elected to do simply to ensure that we are able to best leverage specialist agency strengths.”

Etihad Airways And Air Seychelles Codeshare Flights Now On Sale

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:25:11 GMT

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today launched a new reciprocal codeshare agreement with Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of the Seychelles.

The deal follows yesterday’s announcement that the Abu Dhabi-based airline would form a strategic partnership by taking a 40 per cent stake in the national carrier of the Seychelles.

Under the first phase of the agreement, Etihad Airways guests will have the opportunity to travel to Praslin via Mahé and Air Seychelles guests will be able to travel to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways. The new codeshare services are on sale from today, effective immediately on flights with both airlines.

The second phase of the agreement will see Etihad Airways-marketed flights across Air Seychelles’ network and Air Seychelles-marketed flights to Etihad Airways destinations across Europe, including flights to the Middle East, the GCC, Asia and flights to Australia.

The agreement – Etihad Airways’ 36th such commercial partnership – continues the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s global network expansion.

Etihad Airways commenced services to the Seychelles capital of Mahé on November 2, 2011.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “Although we only recently launched the route, the flights to the Seychelles has already proven to be a hugely popular holiday destination among our guests. By expanding our presence in the region and increasing connectivity in cooperation with Air Seychelles, Etihad Airways’ guests can look forward to a more seamless travel experience within the diverse and scenic islands.”

An integrated, reciprocal frequent flyer agreement, including mileage earning and redemption, will be introduced later this year.

Etihad Airways And WAHA International Team Up For Somalia

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:25:06 GMT

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and WAHA International, the international non-profit, nongovernmental organisation, have teamed-up to transport disaster relief kits to Somalia.

The relief kits, destined for two refugee camps and two hospitals in the Somali capital Mogadishu, contained 474 tents, 50 education boxes, and three tons of electrical material.

Currently, 3.7 million Somalis, or 50 per cent of the population are facing acute food shortages and a lack of proper shelter and livelihoods. Some 1.5 million people are classed as internally displaced persons (IDPs), with more than 400,000 living in Mogadishu and its environs.

Working closely with WAHA International, UAE Red Crescent and the Shelterbox France charity, Etihad Airways coordinated the consignments from various points in Europe through the airline’s Abu Dhabi hub.

David Kerr, Etihad Airways Vice President for Cargo said: “Acting as a bridge between Europe and Africa, our team at Etihad Airways, both on the passenger and freighter side of operations, worked closely with WAHA International, UAE Red Crescent and Shelterbox France to ensure the safe arrival of these relief kits in the UAE, before their eventual shipment by WAHA International to Somalia.

”This successful operation further proves Etihad Airways’ ability to provide secure logistical solutions for our partners and customers through Abu Dhabi, and we are delighted to have played a role in part-coordinating these much needed relief supplies to Somalia.”

Dr Sinan Khaddaj, WAHA International Secretary General said: “These relief kits will make a dramatic difference to the well-being of hundreds of Somali families in dire need of assistance in Mogadishu.

“The support of Etihad Airways in transporting these supplies has been instrumental in ensuring their timely arrival on the ground so that WAHA’s team can begin their distribution to those in urgent need.”

Etihad Airways Buys More Airbus Freighters

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:06:34 GMT

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today announced it would double the size of its Airbus A330-200 Freighter fleet.

The carrier said it had ordered two more A330-200Fs in a deal worth $423 million at current list prices.

“We are strongly committed to building our presence in the cargo sector with the platform of Abu Dhabi as our hub to connect global trade lanes,” Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer James Hogan said.

“The A330-200F has been a key part of our recent success in the market. We are very pleased with its high reliability and versatility, and that’s why we are keen to expand this fleet type,” he added.

Etihad Airways was a launch customer and the launch operator of the A330-200F, having taken delivery of its first aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow in 2010.

The A330-200F, which has just celebrated a successful first year of operation, can carry up to 70 tonnes of payload and offers a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles.

Etihad Airways operates its A330-200Fs on routes to Addis Ababa, Almaty, flights to Beijing, Erbil, Frankfurt-Hahn, Hong Kong, flights to Johannesburg, flights to Milan and Nairobi.

“This repeat order by Etihad Airways underlines the key role the A330-200F is playing alongside larger freighters. The A330-200F enables Etihad Airways to optimise its network by addressing markets which do not make business sense with large freighters,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

“In a challenging economic environment, with high fuel prices and yields under pressure, the A330-200F helps match capacity neatly with demand which, allows for efficient cargo operations.”

Seychelles Government And Etihad Airways Team Up In New Strategic Partnership In Air Seychelles Ltd.

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:45:40 GMT

The Government of Seychelles and Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding wherein Etihad will invest to acquire a 40 per cent stake in Air Seychelles Ltd as part of a strategic partnership alliance initiative between Air Seychelles and Etihad Airways.

The deal was announced today by Joel Morgan, Seychelles Minister of Home Affairs, Environment, Transport and Energy and James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways.

Etihad Airways’ investment of USD 20 million will be matched by an equal capital injection from the Government of Seychelles. In addition, Etihad Airways will also provide a shareholder’s loan of USD 25 million to meet working capital requirements and support network development.

Mr Morgan said: “This is a game-changing strategic partnership for us, establishing Air Seychelles on a sustainable growth trajectory and offering a realistic way forward for long-term commercial growth.”

“The partnership simultaneously provides international presence, strategic penetration and a bright future for our national carrier.”

“The aviation industry is under enormous pressure right now, with small airlines especially vulnerable to global economic instability and ongoing oil price volatility. In this context, consolidation offers the best possible solution for Air Seychelles. This agreement will allow Air Seychelles to share the benefits of the visionary strategy of one of the world’s leading airlines and leverage its economies of scale and synergies.”

Mr Hogan said: “This deal is consistent with our approach to expansion, which relies on the strength of strategic partnerships across the globe. The investment in the national carrier of Seychelles is a natural next step towards growing our operations in the increasingly important leisure markets of the Indian Ocean and Africa.

“The Seychelles is a renowned leisure destination and its tourism industry is surging, as indicated by record-setting visitor numbers for the island nation in 2011. There is a need for greater connectivity to support this tourism boom, and both Air Seychelles and Etihad Airways are well-positioned to leverage that demand into substantial commercial growth.

The integration of the networks will give Air Seychelles greater opportunity to tap into key tourism feeder markets across Europe – such as with flights to Germany, France, Italy and flights to the UK – where Etihad Airways’ presence is strong and growing.”

Asia, and more specifically China, is increasingly important to the Seychelles national economy. Apart from the Seychelles strategic geographic significance as a stepping stone between China and Africa, the island nation is also an important trading partner for Chinese business and an increasingly popular leisure destination for significant numbers of Chinese travellers.

The agreement, which is the first of its kind in Africa, makes for provision for a five-year management contract for Etihad Airways which will see the implementation of strategic measures to encourage Air Seychelles’ long-term commercial growth.

Importantly, the partnership will offer unprecedented career development opportunities and access to Etihad Airways state-of-the-art training academy and facilities in Abu Dhabi for Seychellois aviation professionals.

Etihad Airways has achieved a high level of success in encouraging and facilitating the professional growth and increased presence of nationals in the organisation following the implementation of its localisation program, and will support a similar knowledge and skill transfer for Seychellois within Air Seychelles.

Another important element of the agreement gives Air Seychelles office presence in Etihad Airways offices across the Etihad Airways network. This means vastly improved marketing possibilities for the country and its national carrier.

Finally, the new partnership will further drive consolidation of key functions, resulting in significant cost savings and process optimisation.

Also under the partnership:

? Etihad Airways will seek to increase frequency of flights between Abu Dhabi and Mahé from four per week to daily, as well as providing new services to the islands;

? Etihad Airways will work in conjunction with Air Seychelles to develop a renewed fleet and network growth plan for the island-based carrier;

? The airlines will sign a comprehensive codeshare agreement to include Etihad Airways-marketed flights across Air Seychelles’ network and Air Seychelles-marketed flights to Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways destinations across Europe, the Middle East, the GCC, Asia and Australia.

? Etihad Guest and Seychelles Bonus, the airlines’ frequent flyer programs, will be integrated to include mileage earning and redemption on each other’s flights.

This agreement is Etihad Airways’ second equity investment, following its December 2011 announcement that it would increase its stake in airberlin to 29.21 per cent, making it the single biggest shareholder in Europe’s sixth largest airline.

Etihad Airways Launches A World Innovation - Etihad Guest Miles To Become A Global Currency

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:45:36 GMT

Etihad Guest, Etihad Airways’ award winning loyalty program, is offering its members an innovative new way to convert their Etihad Guest Miles into cash to spend anywhere, anytime.

This is delivered through PointsPay® an exclusive, real-time transaction solution that gives Etihad Guest Members unlimited freedom to spend in-store or online at millions of outlets worldwide.

Members simply use the PointsPay® application (available now as an iPhone app and shortly also via the PointsPay website) to exchange their Etihad Guest miles for funds to be added directly to their PointsPay® Visa prepaid card before using the card either in-store or online. For online shopping, they don’t even need a physical card, as the system produces a Virtual PointsPay ® Visa card for them to use directly on the web.

The PointsPay® application is safe to use as it incorporates robust security standards including automatic information encryption, password protection and notifications whenever miles are converted to credit.

Before the end of January, all existing Etihad Guest Members will be given the opportunity to be selected to be amongst the first group of members accessing this new feature. More and more members will be given access to the application over the course of the first quarter of 2012, with the application being available to the entire membership by the end of April 2012.

PointsPay® application is developed by PointsPay Inc., a Loylogic Company. Loylogic specialises in loyalty program innovations.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “This is a break-through innovation for the airline and loyalty industry, transforming our Etihad Guest miles into a global currency and we are very pleased to deliver this new solution to the world.

“The new service is indicative of the innovative services we continuously seek to provide to our members. The PointsPay® application is a ground-breaking innovation, and we are pleased to be the first and only loyalty program to have access to this technology. This new facility changes the face of how loyalty programs offer their members the ability to use their miles or points. Our members can now effectively redeem their Etihad Guest miles to make purchases at more than 30 million points-of-sale worldwide, which makes us the most flexible and rewarding program in the industry.”

Dominic Hofer, Founder and CEO of Loylogic and PointsPay, said: “PointsPay® is a truly amazing concept but also the answer to the most challenging dilemma of the loyalty industry: How can members redeem points and miles easily, securely and wherever they want? We are launching the new PointsPay® solution, as we have done in the past with other innovations, with Etihad Guest. We have worked with Etihad Airways over a period of more than 6 years, and are proud to exclusively offer this new ground-breaking innovation to Etihad in recognition of our close partnership.”

Currently the Etihad Guest program offers members opportunities to accumulate air miles which can be redeemed against a wide selection of over 2900 flight and non-flight rewards from over 200 partners. Non-flight rewards cover a wide variety of categories, from computer and electronic equipment to jewellery and lifestyle products. The program boasts over 1.4 million members to date and has more than 70 global partners.

Etihad Airways Operates First Biofuel Powered Delivery Flight

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:45:32 GMT

Etihad Airways’ flight from Seattle to Abu Dhabi – the delivery flight of the airline’s newest Boeing 777-300ER that arrived on January 24 – was the first in the Gulf to be operated using sustainable biofuel.

The 14 hour delivery flight of the airline’s newest and most efficient long haul aircraft was operated using a combination of traditional jet fuel and plant-based jet fuel, which is fully certified for use as commercial jet fuel.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “This flight marks a significant milestone in our efforts to support and drive the commercialisation of sustainable aviation fuel in Abu Dhabi, the region, and globally.

“However, the use of a presently available biofuel is just one part of a more comprehensive long-term biofuel strategy to ensure that we are able to use biofuels to decarbonise substantially an entire industry sector in the long term.”

SkyNRG, an Amsterdam-based sustainable jet fuel provider, supplied the fuel, which is based on recycled vegetable cooking oil. As a plant-based source that has been used already for cooking purposes, it qualifies as a bio-based waste stream with a high sustainability value.

Dirk Kronemeijer, SkyNRG’s Managing Director, said: “We think the Middle East has great potential to give a critical boost towards making a market for sustainable flights' fuel that is affordable. With this flight Etihad Airways has taken a fantastic step, particularly in increasing awareness within the region. There is a lot more to come in this continent and we are determined to be there when that happens.”

Boeing also supported this initiative by supplying their ‘fly-away’ fuel, provided for every new delivery, as a biofuel blend.

Sustainability is a key aspect of the biofuel production process. Etihad Airways, as a member of the global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group, has committed to a stringent set of sustainability principles when looking at opportunities for biofuel development and use. This includes ensuring that feedstock is non-competitive with food sources and does not jeopardise drinking water supplies.

As part of this commitment and in helping to drive the development of potential feedstock in Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways is also one of the founding members of the Masdar Institute’s Sustainable Bioenergy Research Consortium (SBRC) in Abu Dhabi. This innovative five-year program, backed by over USD 2 million of financial and other support from the airline, supports research into the use of salt water tolerant plants as the basis for alternative aviation fuels.

With new regulations now being imposed on aviation carbon emissions, the commercial viability of biofuel is gaining even more importance. Starting this year, the EU emissions trading scheme (ETS) will require all airlines to pay for emissions and this is likely to lead to other such schemes around the world. Biofuel is considered ‘carbon neutral' as the plant biomass takes in carbon as it grows and releases it again during the combustion process, and this means that the use of biofuel as part of the EU ETS would be considered exempt.

Etihad Airways-Airberlin Partnership Set For Take Off

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:13:14 GMT

German and Austrian regulatory authorities have given their approval to the deal announced last month in which Etihad Airways increased its shareholding in airberlin to 29.21 per cent.

The approved strategic partnership between the airlines will offer passengers a combined global network of 239 destinations, seamlessly connected through hubs in Abu Dhabi, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Vienna and Palma de Majorca.

Already, both airlines have announced a number of joint actions, including codesharing on a number of routes on each other’s networks, integrating aspects of their frequent flyer programs, and mutual maintenance agreements in Abu Dhabi and Düsseldorf.

Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, James Hogan, said: “We are delighted that all the regulatory approvals have been concluded successfully and we can now to move forward with plans to create an outstanding offering for passengers on our combined network.

“The partnership between Etihad Airways and airberlin will have a positive market impact, stimulating competition and ultimately benefiting passengers across the globe.

“It is a significant milestone in our history and the first step in what will be a very positive association over the coming years.”

airberlin CEO Hartmut Mehdorn said: “I am confident that this is the beginning of a very successful collaboration which will benefit the customers of both companies. It opens up unique possibilities for joint future market development and provides the prerequisite for increased synergies and cost optimisations.”

Etihad Airways and airberlin group carry a combined total of more than 40 million passengers a year, operate 233 aircraft and employ 18,000 people.

British Airways unveils winning dove design for London 2012 aircraft

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:10 GMT

The design of the British Airways aircraft to celebrate the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be 'The Dove' by up and coming British designer Pascal Anson. His artwork beat hundreds of entries in the BA Great Britons Programme, and was chosen by a judging panel including Turner-prize nominated artist and Royal Academician Tracey Emin, the Royal Academy of Arts and the airline.

As BA Great Britons mentor, Tracey Emin has advised Pascal during the project, and said: "It would have been easy to put a motif or a pattern on the side of an aircraft but Pascal's design takes it to another level. He uses the entire livery of the aircraft to redefine the way you look at it. The dove is a stunning piece of work and will bring real excitement to anyone who flies on one of the repainted planes."

The 38 year-old designer and artist from Brighton, also a Design Tutor at Kingston University, has spent the past few months honing his design with Emin. It will be emblazoned across a number of British Airways aircraft and seen by a global audience of millions.

BA Great Britons winner Pascal Anson, said: "On my journeys from Brighton to London, I've often looked up at aircraft landing at Gatwick and wondered if it’s a 'bird or a plane', and the idea developed from there. When I started researching birds further I realised it had to be a dove. Not only are they a symbol of peace and social unity, but they were also used in previous Olympic Games ceremonies, including the last London Games in 1948."

To create an illusion of a dove, Pascal spent hours in a cote observing the birds. He incorporates their intricate detail on the livery, which will use a new colour of paint produced by the British Airways engineering team and its suppliers.

Frank van der Post, British Airways managing director, brands and customer experience, said: "When we invited up and coming British artists to submit a design to celebrate the London 2012 Games, we didn't expect a concept that would change the way we look at the aircraft - yet Pascal's work has achieved this and we're very proud to be sharing it with the world on our giant flying canvas."

The BA Great Britons Programme was launched to discover the best of British talent in Art, as well as Food and Film and offer British talent a platform in the run up to the London 2012 Games. Pascal's aircraft launch will coincide with the unveiling of a London 2012 inspired menu, created by Simon Hulstone with support from Michelin-star restaurant owner and chef Heston Blumenthal, and short film written by Prasanna Puwanarajah with mentoring from scriptwriter and director Richard E Grant. All three projects will be unveiled to the public in April.

For more information, visit: Facebook.com/britishairways

Ends

About British Airways:
British Airways plc offers a wide range of worldwide destinations, including holidays in London, flights to London, Maldives holidays, flights to Berlin and Prague holidays, as well as hotels, car rental with Avis and experiences. Customers can save time and money with ba.com when booking ATOL protected holiday packages, ATOL number is 5985. Passengers are offered added peace of mind to their holiday plans and the security of travelling with British Airways. British Airways plc constantly seeks to exceed customers' expectations, both in terms of the value for money and quality of the service provided.

British Airways flies newly refurbished Boeing 777-200

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:06:28 GMT

British Airway's customers flying on a recent Boston flight were the first to experience the airline's very latest seats and cabins following the first complete refit of one of BA's Boeing 777-200s.

The aircraft was the first of 18 to be fitted with British Airways' recently launched First cabin, new World Traveller and World Traveller Plus cabins and the airline's latest Thales in-flight entertainment system.

The multi-million pound refurbishment gives the 18 Boeing 777-200s the same contemporary interiors as British Airways' six brand new Boeing 777-300ERs.

Frank van der Post, British Airways' managing director of brands and customer experience, said: "This exciting and ambitious refit now brings our 777s right up to date, with new interiors and the very latest inflight entertainment system.

"We have had fantastic customer reaction to our new fleet of Boeing 777-300ERs, which originally showcased our new cabins, and we know those who travel on these 18 aircraft will be equally impressed with our investment.

"Customers will be able to enjoy the very best travel experience British Airways has to offer, with more comfortable seats and brighter, more contemporary cabins."

Over the next five years British Airways will be investing more than £5bn in new aircraft, smarter cabins, elegant lounges, and new technologies to make life more comfortable in the air and on the ground.

It takes British Airways' Cardiff-based engineers, at the airline's Welsh maintenance base, approximately a month, or 5,700 man hours, to carefully remove a 777's old seats and interiors and replace them with the airline's very latest cabins.

Each aircraft will also have a staggering 13 kilometres of wiring removed and new fibre optic cables installed to power the new in-flight entertainment system.

New widescreens will be fitted in Club World and customers flying on these refitted Boeing 777-200s will also be able to experience the airline's sophisticated new First cabin.

New seats and cabins in World Traveller Plus and World Traveller, feature the latest cushioning technology and in-seat power sockets.

The Thales in-flight entertainment system offers over 700 hours of movies, TV and music options on demand; that's more than 230 TV programmes, 70 films and 400 CDs, providing customers with 50 per cent more choice on movies and doubling the range of TV and music options, as well as plug and play technology.

Each cabin also gets bigger, high-resolution widescreens: customers in World Traveller will be able to watch TV and films on 35 per cent larger video touchscreens (now 8.9 inches); in World Traveller Plus they are 60 per cent larger (now 10.6 inches); Club World widescreens increase by 16.3 per cent (now 12.1 inches) while the new First screens increase by 275 per cent (now 15.4 inches)

About British Airways:
British Airways plc offers a wide range of worldwide destinations, including holidays in Brussels, Maldives holidays, holidays in Boston, Venice holidays and Orlando holidays, as well as hotels, car rental with Avis and experiences. Customers can save time and money with ba.com when booking ATOL protected holiday packages, ATOL number is 5985. Passengers are offered added peace of mind to their holiday plans and the security of travelling with British Airways. British Airways plc constantly seeks to exceed customers' expectations, both in terms of the value for money and quality of the service provided.

Aer Lingus announces summer sale

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:31:48 GMT

Aer Lingus, the leading low cost Irish airline, has announced its sale for summer 2012. With 20% off every seat on every flight each day to the UK and Europe this summer there's a total of six million seats available to customers at a discounted fare.

Including flights to popular UK destinations such as London, Manchester and Edinburgh, the sale also covers trips to European cities such as Amsterdam, Barcelona and Rome.

The launch of the sale follows a continuing trend of good news for the airline company, which includes the announcement that passenger numbers for December 2011 increased by 13% compared to the same period in 2010, as well as the recent launch of a number of additional summer routes.

New routes for passenger flights to Europe include destinations such as Stockholm, Verona, Nice or Naples for a week on the French or Italian Riviera, with old favourites such as Palma, Ibiza and Bilbao making a welcome return. The company will also be increasing flying frequency on 13 of its current routes such as Perpignan, Faro and Zurich throughout the summer.

For passengers to take advantage of the sale, all cheap flights to Europe must be booked by Monday 23rd January, with travel to be arranged between 17th April and 25th October.

With the staff of Aer Lingus taking care of customers every step of the way there will also be the added benefits of advance seat selection for passengers and centrally located airports so that there isn't a wasted moment of the holiday.

For Aer Lingus customers choosing to fly to the US this summer, flight deals are currently available to destinations such as New York and Orlando, with the added bonus of full US Customs and Immigration pre-clearance before boarding included. To take advantage of the US offer passengers should book by the 3rd February with travel to be arranged between the 1st April and 30th June.

- ENDS -

Notes to Editor:
20% discount applies before taxes and charges (UK and Europe)

About Aer Lingus:
Aer Lingus was founded by the Irish Government in April 1936 to provide air services to/from Ireland. The first flight, from Dublin to Bristol, took place on May 27th 1936.

Aer Lingus' low-cost, low fares model is centred on maintaining low unit cost, offering one way fares, maintaining effective fleet utilisation and developing the Aer Lingus brand. Consistent with this low-cost model, Aer Lingus' primary distribution channel is its website aerlingus.com where customers can find a number of UK flight offers and flight deals from Ireland, as well as take advantage of the Aer Lingus check in app and purchase travel vouchers.

Aer Lingus provides a cargo transportation service on some of its scheduled passenger routes, including services to the United States and Europe. Aer Lingus provides mail transportation services between Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Inflight Connectivity Takes To The Skies With Etihad Airways

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:29:09 GMT

Guests of Etihad Airways are now better connected than ever before.

The airline’s first aircraft to offer inflight connectivity for passengers have officially taken to the skies.

The aircraft – three Airbus A330-300 and one Airbus A320 aircraft – are equipped with inflight passenger connectivity services. Another connectivity-enabled Airbus A320 will be delivered in March 2012.

On the A320, guests of the airline will have full mobile connectivity, enabling them to use their own mobile phones and Smartphones to make and receive phone-calls, send and receive text messages and emails, and access mobile data services. The A320 is used primarily for short-haul routes throughout the Middle East, and some mid-length routes such as on flights to Istanbul, Athens, Minsk, Cochin, flights to Bangalore and Mahé in the Seychelles.

Onboard Etihad Airways’ A330-300 aircraft, guests will have the same mobile connectivity in addition to Wi-Fi internet capability for personal laptop and tablet use. The A330-300 is used for long-haul destinations across the network, such as with flights to London, Frankfurt, Paris, flights to Geneva, Casablanca and Seoul.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways Chief Commercial Officer, said: “The modern traveller is increasingly reliant on mobile devices and the internet, not only to plan travel, but also to stay in touch throughout their journey. The introduction of these connectivity-enabled aircraft is an exciting first step in Etihad Airways’ long-term strategy to offer inflight connectivity solutions across our entire fleet of passenger aircraft.”

During the launch phase, Etihad Airways will offer inflight mobile and tablet connectivity from USD 10 and laptop Wi-Fi internet connectivity from USD 20. Mobile telephone calls will be charged according to the international roaming rates of guests’ mobile network provider.

Etihad Airways Commences Flights To Tripoli

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:47:32 GMT

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, operated its maiden flight from Abu Dhabi to Tripoli on Tuesday, the airline’s first new destination of 2012.

The service, which will operate three times a week, is the only direct commercial flight between the UAE and Libya’s capital city. Inaugural flight EY687 departed Abu Dhabi at 07:45am and touched down at 12:15pm, local time.

On board the two class Airbus A330 were UAE Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs Dr Anwar Gargash, former UAE ambassador to Libya H.E. Saeed Obaid al Kaabi, current ambassador H.E. Sultan Rashid Al Kaytoub and UAE Head of Economic Affairs H.E. Jassim Mohamed Al Qassimi.

Etihad Airways Chief Operating Officer Richard Hill piloted the aircraft. Other members of Etihad Airways staff included Senior Vice President Government and Aeropolitical Affairs Khaled Gaith al Mehairbi, Senior Vice President Executive Affairs and Corporate Security Hasan al Hammadi and Vice President UAE Sales Hareb Mubarak al Muhairy.

Prominent UAE businessmen were also on the flight.

Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer James Hogan said: “We are delighted to launch this service to Tripoli. Libya is a beautiful country that over the coming months and years will have much to offer both business and leisure travellers. Tripoli is Etihad Airways’ fifth African destination and marks the first time these two Arab capitals have been commercially linked by air.”

His Excellency Dr. Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, underlined the significance of the launch of Etihad Airways flights to Tripoli: “This is a further step in the development of the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Libya. Direct flights will contribute profoundly to the development of trade, investment and tourism.

“The new Libya is taking its rightful place among the prosperous nations of northern Africa and the Mediterranean. I have noted with great satisfaction that UAE companies are increasingly turning their attention to Libya for opportunities to cooperate, invest and do business. This is a clear sign of the positive future our business community sees for this country. Etihad Airways is a leading example of this.”

UAE Ambassador to Libya H.E. Sultan Rashid Al Kaytoub said: “There is no doubt that the new Etihad Airways route between the two Arabian capitals is a result of joint cooperation between the two countries in civil aviation.

“Air transport has become imperative in the rise of economies, therefore the new Etihad Airways route to Libya’s capital Tripoli will open up prospects for more trade, cooperation and investment. It will also enhance tourism between the UAE and Libya.

“We look forward to more partnerships and strategic cooperation, and the to the operation of regular flights from the UAE and Libya to serve the interests of the two brotherly countries and peoples.”

Dr Aref Ali Nayed, Ambassador of Libya to the United Arab Emirates, said: “The United Arab Emirates has been steadfast in its support for the Libyan people. Since the beginning of the uprising, the UAE has provided humanitarian, diplomatic and political assistance in all critical areas, ranging from medical aid to education.

“It is vital, therefore, that this close cooperation between the two countries is strengthened through the building of robust channels of communication. The inauguration of the first commercial flights by Etihad Airways between Abu Dhabi and Tripoli will enable citizens of both countries to travel, develop commerce and move cargo.

“It represents a new phase of cooperation and mutual support between the two peoples — connecting the gateways of North Africa and the Middle East.”

lastminute.com unveils its Top Secret collection

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:23:37 GMT

lastminute.com, the UK's largest online hotel, travel and leisure specialist recently opened the doors to the Top Secret Collection.

Based in Central London and open until January 22nd, it showcases the retailer's Top Secret products which offer 4 and 5 star luxury for 3 star prices. The range includes Top Secret hotels, Top Secret restaurants, Top Secret cars and Top Secret theatre seats.

lastminute.com's Top Secret Collection is open free of charge to members of the public at the Getty Gallery on Great Eastcastle Street, minutes from Oxford Circus. The luxury experience showcases the very best that lastminute.com Top Secret has to offer; from food to fitness, cupcakes to cocktails and competitions and giveaways. Beauty therapists have been onsite at the event providing a variety of treatments, including foot reflexology, hand massages and Indian head, neck and shoulders massages. Customers have also been able to book their hotel stays, theatre tickets, car hire and restaurant tables from the pop-up where lastminute.com staff have been on hand to give advice.

Matthew Crummack, President of lastminute.com commented: "Top Secret Hotels embodies what we stand for: making the unattainable, attainable and offering 5 star luxury for 3 star prices. Through our Top Secret offering we are using our knowledge, experience and supplier relationships to bring customers deals that they otherwise wouldn't get. We are delighted to be able to showcase our online offering for the very first time in a physical space and believe it represents what lastminute.com stands for: added value and affordable treats, especially at a time when we're looking for those extra special moments."

The Top Secret Collection comprises of:
-Top Secret Hotels: lastminute.com can secure up to 45% off luxury 4 and 5 star hotels, allowing the customer to simply choose the date and location and lastminute.com will give the customer the hotel's location, star rating and description. The hotel will be kept secret until the booking is made although it is guaranteed to be a top hotel and the offer includes luxury hotels London.
-Top Secret Restaurants: lastminute.com is offering customers the chance to dine at a Michelin star restaurant for less than £30. By choosing a location within central London lastminute.com will give the customer the type of cuisine and a sample menu. The secret is that the diner will not find out the name of the restaurant until they have booked, but it will be a top Michelin starred restaurants.
- Top Secret Theatre Tickets: lastminite.com can secure discounted tickets in the top three seating bands for both musicals and West End plays. The secret is that theatre goers will only find out their exact seats once the tickets have been picked up on the day of the performance.
- Top Secret Cars: lastminute.com can secure excellent car hire deals all year round that guarantee to take a further 10% off the price of the car a customer books. The car hire provider will be a secret until the booking is complete, but it will be quality names such as Alamo, Avis, Europcar or Thrifty.

About lastminute.com:
lastminute.com is the UK's largest online hotel, travel and leisure specialist, with over 1.65 million visitors per week. It provides customers with the best ways to make their free time go even further. Whether planning a great night out, an amazing weekend away or a relaxing two-weeks somewhere far away from home, lastminute.com has it all - and at great prices.

lastminute.com offers customers the opportunity to book London hotels, city breaks and flights, buy tickets and experience packages and make restaurant reservations through its one-stop shop. From adventuring in the mountains to relaxing beach breaks, spa stays, theatre trips and dining, there really is something for everyone.

The latest lastminute.com news can be found at its press room: http://pr.lastminute.com/

Top Articles found when searching for flights