Jetstar Announces Cabin Upgrade on its B787 Fleet; Considers Flights to India

Jetstar has unveiled a multi-million-dollar cabin product upgrade for its Boeing 787-8 fleet, as it hints at expanding operations to South Asia and Africa.

The low-cost arm of Australia’s Qantas says the upgrade will see new economy- and business-class seats – both to be manufactured by Recaro – as well as onboard Wi-Fi connectivity and a dedicated crew rest area.

The first aircraft with the refreshed cabin will enter service in late 2025; retrofit works will be carried out during scheduled heavy maintenance. As part of the changes, the fleet will also receive an updated Jetstar livery to match the latest aircraft in the fleet, the Airbus A321neo LR.

Upgraded Seats

Jetstar will also more than double the number of business-class seats on its 787s – from the current 21 seats to 44. The airline says the move is “in response to growing customer demand for more choice and extra comfort when flying long-haul”. As a result, the total seat count on Jetstar’s 787s will now be 325, 10 fewer seats than the current configuration. The new Recaro seats in both classes will feature seat-back device holders, as well as power outlets.

To accommodate the extra business seats, the total number of seats across the aircraft (business and economy) will drop by 10 to 325. The airline operates its business class seats in a 2-3-2 formation and its economy seats in a 3-3-3 layout.

Enhanced on-board Connectivity

It seems that the Jetstar long-haul aircraft will gain inflight connectivity to allow passengers to stay connected in the air. This allows for surfing the internet or streaming content from Jetstar’s entertainment collection. Customers will be able to access in-flight connectivity using their own devices.

A supplier has not been identified at this time. In the past, Qantas has partnered with Viasat to deliver inflight connectivity. However, inflight screens that may exist on the aircraft will be removed to be more sustainable (and not pay for the maintenance of a seatback IFE system).

Direct Flights to India

Jetstar is looking beyond its current network, with them eyeballing direct flights from Australia as far as India, Sri Lanka or Africa. The addition of a crew rest area on the aircraft unlocks ”the possibility of exciting new destinations like Sri Lanka and India”, says airline chief Stephanie Tully.

Jetstar stresses that it has not made a decision on which new destinations it will deploy the type on. Adds Tully: “This multi-million-dollar fleet revamp will allow us to offer our customers more choice, comfort and amenities when flying longer distances internationally. Our existing 787 business class offering is extremely popular, so we’re doubling the number of business class seats, and to keep customers connected in the air, we’re introducing on-board Wi-Fi.”

According to Cirium fleets data, Jetstar has an in-service fleet of 11 787-8s, which are all powered by GEnx-1B engines. The aircraft, which operates medium- to long-haul flights to cities such as Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok and Honolulu, is between eight and 10 years old and has operated more than 54,000 flights so far.

The B787 burns up to 25% less fuel than previous generation aircraft, with an equivalent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. This is achieved through lighter-weight composite construction, modern engines, improved aerodynamics and state-of-the-art flying systems. To further reduce overall aircraft weight and fuel burn, the fleet’s current seat back screens will be removed, a change facilitated by the rollout of inflight wi-fi and content streaming to personal devices, and the new RECARO seats and exterior paint will also weigh less.

Q-Codes, a set of three-letter codes originally developed in the early 20th century, have played a crucial role in facilitating effective communication in radio transmissions. Initially created by the British government for maritime communication, these codes have transcended their origins and continue to be an integral part of radio procedures, including applications in aviation and emergency services.

Historical Background

The roots of Q-Codes trace back to 1909 when the British government compiled a list of abbreviations for the use of radio communication in British ships and coast stations. The aim was to streamline communication among maritime radio operators speaking different languages.

This list, known as Q-Codes, gained international recognition and was included in the Service Regulations of the Second International Radiotelegraph Convention in London in 1912. Over time, the number of Q-Codes expanded, covering a broad spectrum of topics relevant to radio operators, including meteorology, radio direction finding, and search and rescue.

International Adoption

The international adoption of Q-Codes highlights their effectiveness in overcoming language barriers and promoting standardized communication in radio transmissions. As a result, these codes have been allocated and utilized by various international organizations, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU-R).

Q-Codes in the Modern Era

Despite the advancements in technology and the shift from Morse code to voice transmissions, Q-Codes have maintained their relevance. In the modern era, they find application in diverse fields, with aviation being a prominent example. Aviation employs specific Q-Codes like QNE, QNH, and QFE for altimeter settings, ensuring unambiguous shorthand communication in radiotelephone conversations with air traffic control.

Aviation Applications

• QFE (Field Elevation): Specifies atmospheric pressure at a specified datum, such as an airfield runway threshold. When set, the altimeter reads the height above the specified datum.
• QFF: Atmospheric pressure at a place, reduced to MSL using the actual temperature at the time of observation as the mean temperature.
• QNE (No Altimeter Error): Indicates altitude at the landing runway threshold when the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level (1013.25 hPa or 29.92 inHg) is set as the altimeter setting. This is crucial for aerodromes at high altitudes where setting QFE might not be feasible.
• QNH (Sea Level Pressure): Represents atmospheric pressure at mean sea level, either as a local measured pressure or a regional forecast pressure (RPS).

Radio Navigation and Procedures

Q-Codes also play a significant role in radio navigation and procedures. In aviation, codes such as QDM, QDR, and QTE assist in providing information on magnetic bearings, distances, and true bearings/track to or from stations. Additionally, Q-Codes like QGH are used in controlled descent through clouds, particularly by the Royal Air Force.

Navigation

Procedures

Contemporary Usage Beyond Aviation

Remarkably, Q-Codes have found applications beyond aviation. In Miami-Dade County, Florida, local government utilizes a subset of Q-Codes for law enforcement and fire rescue communications in ground voice communication—an unusual but effective implementation.

Conclusion

The legacy of Q-Codes, born out of the necessity for efficient international radio communication, persists in the modern era. From their inception in the early 20th century to their contemporary applications in aviation, emergency services, and beyond, Q-Codes stand as a testament to the enduring importance of standardized communication in a world where efficient transmission of information is paramount.

With Inputs from Skybrary, Angel Fire

In the face of soaring operational costs and economic challenges, Aeroflot, Russia's flagship carrier, has proposed the establishment of a mechanism to provide preferential loans to the country's airlines. The move is driven by the airline's recognition of the historically low profit margins in the aviation sector and the need for financial support to navigate the current economic climate.

Current Financial Landscape

Aeroflot's Deputy Chief Executive for Corporate Governance, Mikhail Fedosov, disclosed that the airline's existing banking and bond debt stands at approximately RUB111 billion (USD1.2 billion), with an average interest rate of 9%. Acknowledging the low-profit margins in air transportation, Fedosov highlighted the necessity of exploring avenues for lending at preferential rates.

Challenges in Air Transportation

The aviation industry is grappling with multiple challenges, including escalating costs in key expenditure categories. Aeroflot noted a discernible upward trend in aircraft leasing and airport tariffs. Particularly concerning is the substantial spike in jet fuel prices, a critical component of operational costs. Fedosov emphasized that the high cost of aviation fuel, currently around RUB82,000 (USD890) per metric ton, presents a significant challenge. Fuel costs constitute approximately 35% of the airline's overall expenses.

Proposal for Preferential Loans

Given the precarious financial situation and the historical context of slim profit margins, Aeroflot is urging the consideration of a mechanism that facilitates lending to airlines at preferential rates. Fedosov underscored the importance of this proposal by noting that, due to existing interest rates and recent changes in key rates, replacing loans may become necessary at significantly higher rates, posing a potential financial burden on the airline.

Financial Performance in 2023

Aeroflot's financial statements for the first nine months of 2023 revealed a net loss of RUB94.64 billion (USD1.03 billion), inclusive of exchange rate revaluations. This marks a stark contrast from the previous year, when the airline reported a profit of RUB58.38 billion (USD634 million). However, Aeroflot clarified that excluding the impact of negative exchange rate differences would have resulted in a net profit for the period.

Conclusion

In navigating the challenges posed by escalating operational costs, Aeroflot's proposal for a mechanism facilitating preferential loans underscores the need for proactive measures to support airlines in the current economic environment. As the aviation industry grapples with volatile fuel prices and other financial pressures, the proposal seeks to ensure the sustainability of airlines amidst a complex and evolving landscape. The industry and relevant stakeholders will be closely watching how this proposal progresses in the broader context of economic recovery and support for the aviation sector.

With Inputs from ch-aviation

Boeing, a leading aviation giant, has released its Commercial Market Outlook (CMO), projecting a remarkable surge in the Middle East's commercial aircraft fleet. The forecast anticipates a more than twofold increase by the year 2042, with a substantial demand for approximately 3,025 new jets in the region over the next two decades.

Projections for New Jets

Boeing's comprehensive forecast delves into the specifics of the expected growth. Of the projected 3,025 new aircraft, approximately 1,570 are expected to be narrow-body planes, catering to the expansion of low-cost carriers (LCCs) and short-haul networks. Simultaneously, at least 1,350 wide-body aircraft are anticipated, with deliveries in this segment expected to constitute 45% of all aircraft deliveries to the Middle East over the next two decades.

Wide-Body Segment Dominance

Boeing's report highlights a significant growth trajectory in the wide-body aircraft segment. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for efficient connectivity between major population centers in Asia, Africa, and Europe. With airlines in the Middle East acting as pivotal international air transit hubs, the need for wide-body aircraft capable of handling larger passenger volumes becomes evident.

Narrow-Body Fleet Expansion

The CMO underscores the expectations of a more than twofold increase in the narrow-body fleet in the Middle East. This expansion is linked to the ongoing development and expansion of low-cost carriers and short-haul networks in the region. Boeing envisions that nearly half of the total Middle East fleet will consist of narrow-body jets by 2042, reflecting the dynamic changes in the aviation landscape.

Freighter Fleet and Sustainability

The report also sheds light on the freighter fleet, projecting it to reach 180 aircraft. Two-thirds of these freighters are expected to contribute to the growth of air traffic and cargo, while the remaining one-third is anticipated to replace older, less fuel-efficient jets. This emphasis on sustainability aligns with global efforts to enhance the environmental efficiency of the aviation industry.

Transformation into a Key Air Transit Hub

Darren Hulst, Vice President of Commercial Marketing at Boeing, emphasizes the progressive extension of influence by airlines operating in the Middle East. This transformation is turning the region into a key international air transit hub. Hulst notes that the increasing air travel and cargo demand are driven by significant economic growth and national development plans.

Market Implications and Economic Impact

As a result of this expected fleet growth, Boeing anticipates a demand of approximately $335 billion in aviation services. This includes aircraft maintenance, repair, training, and spare parts supply services. The economic implications of this growth are substantial, with the aviation sector poised to play a pivotal role in the economic development of the Middle East.

Conclusion

Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook provides a comprehensive and optimistic view of the future of aviation in the Middle East. With a focus on both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, the projections indicate a robust and dynamic aviation landscape. As the Middle East solidifies its position as a key international air transit hub, Boeing stands ready to meet the evolving demands of the market with efficient and versatile fleet solutions.

Senior Cabin crew members of Tata-owned Air India Express (AIX) have voiced concerns over alleged breach of code of conduct by the company and sought the Union Civil Aviation Ministry's intervention in the matter. Senior staff claim that they are facing mental harassment and abrupt contract reductions, raising doubts about the airline's management practices.

"As per the latest employment letter issued by the management, cabin crew members are not permitted to take part in any trade union activities. This decision has been made to break the unity and stop Union work in the name of Air India Express Employees Union registered under BMS," reads the letter sent by the AIX employees union to Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

The letter further claims that as per the recent decision taken by the HR team led by Anjali Chatterjee, the contracts of four cabin crew members were not recommended for renewal without any reason or justification. The decision has been taken after conducting the assessment programme for contract renewal even after fulfilling all parameters stipulated by management, the union claimed.

Contracts Revoked

"Nine numbers of cabin crew contracts were curtailed from five years to one and other members of the cabin crew received three years tenure. There is no parameter stipulated in the company HR circular to issue a conditional contract for one year. This curtailment was done based on the assessment program without revealing the cause of action. There was no transparency in Communication maintained," the union said.

It further alleged harassment and torture by the company's assessment team. "During an assessment led by Megha Singhania, cabin crew were asked and commented about their complexion, language and accent, and questioned the performance ability of female crew because of their motherhood who had reported post maternity leave. So this harassment creates mental stress for cabin crew when they are on duty which may affect the safety of passengers as well."

The union also alleged that certain "unethical" practices have been observed within the organisation, including the manipulation of height measurements to affect BMI calculations for contract renewal.

"The current height measurement equipment is non-calibrated, and this discrepancy has resulted in wrongful de-rostering of employees from duty. Furthermore, a distressing incident involving an Air India Express cabin crew member who suffered a spinal injury on duty and now faces a life in a wheelchair has brought to light issues of discrimination and lack of equal employment opportunities," reads the letter.

"The employee's contract was terminated without considering groundwork suitable for his limited abilities, leading to a legal dispute for justice. Although the Disability Commission ordered the allocation of an Assistant Operations role for one year, no actual job was assigned, and the contract termination was merely postponed. This situation contradicts the Tata Code of Conduct's commitment to equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of disability," it added.

The letter also suggested irregularities in recruitment and promotions by COO Pushpinder Singh. "Discrepancies in contract tenure for cabin crew members, favouritism, and monopolistic practices have raised concerns about fair labour practices within the organisation," the union alleged.

"It is very shocking to know that under the TATA banner Air India Express COO Capt. Pushpinder Singh running this organization has his own Whims and fancies. Pilot recruitment, Promotion etc. handling comes under him and he is misutilising the authorities in a corrupted way. One of the cabin crew who has three warning letters on personal record and who is in good relation with him received a full five-year contract tenure as other cabin crew who are part of union denied the justice and offered a conditional contract for minor errors without a single warning letter. All these show how monopolistically he is driving the system in this reputed organisation," reads the letter.

"Despite numerous attempts, our union has been denied the opportunity to discuss these concerns with CEO Mr. Aloke Singh, who appears resistant to addressing the issues raised. It is evident that there is a systemic problem, and we urge intervention to rectify the unjust treatment towards cabin crew employees at Air India Express Ltd. Your attention to this matter is crucial to upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and ethical conduct within the organisation," it added.

Currently, the Air India Express comprises 2500 employees wherein 1500 are cabin crew. Following the recent takeover of Air Asia by the Air India Express, the total strength is nearly 5500.

(With Inputs from IANS)

IndiGo announced the extension of its codeshare agreement with Australian flag carrier Qantas. Under this agreement, IndiGo customers will now be able to access four new destinations in Australia - Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane, an airline spokesperson said.

It will start with Melbourne, after which Sydney, Perth and Brisbane will go online in the coming weeks. With the new codeshare routes, IndiGo customers can now also fly to Singapore and connect seamlessly to Qantas’ flights between Singapore and Melbourne.

“With the new codeshare routes, IndiGo customers can now fly to Singapore and connect seamlessly to Qantas’ flights between Singapore and Melbourne. This partnership signifies the strengthening of the relationship between the two countries, as a part of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement,” said the spokesperson.

In 2022, Qantas and IndiGo finalised a codeshare partnership enabling the Australian carrier's customers flying on non-stop flights between the two nations to connect to 21 destinations in India on IndiGo.

Speaking on the partnership, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers said: “We are excited to introduce these new connecting flights to Australia, in partnership with Qantas, connecting on IndiGo’s flights from India to Singapore. The two airlines are the market leaders in their respective countries and this agreement will strengthen the bond between the two countries. For IndiGo, placing its code on another airline and connecting over a mid-point (Singapore) is only the second one of its kind. With this we are now enabling the vast IndiGo network to connect with Qantas’ unmatched reach, we create more opportunities for trade and tourism between both nations. With the thriving growth of the Indian aviation industry, this agreement will also enhance our international connectivity and remain committed to our promise of providing on-time, affordable, courteous, and hassle-free travel experiences to our customers across our wide network."

IndiGo – Qantas Partnership

The national carrier launched the first phase of its codeshare agreement with India’s largest domestic carrier in August last year, offering customers seamless connections from Qantas flights in Bengaluru and Delhi onto IndiGo services to other major Indian cities, including Mumbai and Chennai, as well as smaller destinations such as Pune and Goa.

Under the second phase of the agreement, Qantas customers can now travel to an additional eight cities, bringing the total number of Indian destinations available for connection from Delhi and Bengaluru to 21. Qantas customers will also have more choices across IndiGo’s domestic network with more than 250 new flights available for booking.

Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn and redeem points on connecting IndiGo flights (with the QF code) and IndiGo recognises Qantas Frequent Flyer benefits for tiered members (Silver, Gold, Platinum and Platinum One) including priority check-in and priority baggage.

The airline has been actively seeking additional international partners to broaden its reach to destinations worldwide. Currently, it has established codeshare partnerships with various global airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic, KLM, American Airlines, and Air France.

IndiGo is also aiming to double its fleet size by 2030. The airline has already placed orders for approximately 970 aircraft and is scheduled to receive one new aircraft every week, totalling 50 aircraft, in the coming year. This was revealed by Indigo’s CEO, Pieter Elbers, during a recent media roundtable.

Apart from IndiGo, Air India has also announced flights to Australia, with the airline set to debut on the Mumbai-Melbourne route on December 15. Air India currently operates daily flights to Melbourne and Sydney from Delhi, flying 28 times every week between India and Australia. Qantas operates non-stop flights on Delhi-Melbourne (three flights per week) and Bengaluru-Sydney (five flights per week).