British Airways News Page 72
Emirates rejects state subsidy claims
Emirates chairman Tim Clarke has angrily rejected claims made by Air France chief executive Henri Gourgeon suggesting the airline accepts government subsidies. Mr Gourgeon warned earlier this week Europe’s status as an air travel hub was “under threat” from emerging Middle Eastern carriers.
US proposes Japan antitrust immunity
The United States department of transportation has mooted antitrust immunity for two aviation alliances offering services to Japan. The news comes on the same day British Airways, American Airlines and Iberia launched their long-awaited transatlantic tie-up.
Increasing traffic eases pressure at BA
Shares in British Airways have rocketed this morning, as the British flag-carrier reported a sharp rise in passenger numbers. The picture was repeated at rival easyJet, with an expected increase in profits seeing the airline make the largest gains of the day on the FTSE 250.
American-BA-Iberia sign strategic alliance
American Airlines, British Airways and Spanish flag-carrier Iberia have signed a long-awaited strategic alliance that will see them cooperate on flights between Europe and North America. The deal had been vigorously opposed by transatlantic rival Virgin Atlantic, which claimed it would create a “monster monopoly”.
International Airlines Group names board
Members of the board of directors of International Airlines Group - the holding company formed by the merger of British Airways and Iberia - have been appointed. While many of the new board come from the existing leadership of the partner airlines, John Snow, the former US Treasury secretary, is among the most notable new faces.
Iberia backs BA over pension deficit
Iberia has approved plans put forward by British Airways to alleviate its £3.7 billion pension deficit, bringing a proposed merger between the two one step closer to fruition. The deficit was the last major stumbling block in the process, with the deal now expected to close in November.
British Airways announces new route to Japan
British Airways has announced the launch of a new route to Haneda in Japan in a push to open up the domestic Japanese market to UK travellers.
British Airways rejigs long-haul network
British Airways has confirmed a series of changes to its long-haul offering as it battles to return to profitability. Among the headline changes is the launch of a new service to Haneda in Japan, with the British flag-carrier seeking to open the domestic market to UK travellers.
BA chief warns over Middle East threat
British Airways chief executive Willie Walsh has warned European airlines not to underestimate the threat posed by growing carriers in the Middle East. In an address to the European Aviation Club Mr Walsh said rivals had the potential to revolutionise long-haul travel over the coming decade.
BA strikes deal with ground staff
British Airways ground staff based at Heathrow have voted to accept the latest contract offer from the airline, concluding negotiations begun in 2009. The dispute had centred on working conditions and employment evels at the airport, with staff represented by the GMB and Unite unions.
World’s largest aviation caterer to serve halal-only dishes
The world’s largest independent airline caterer has announced plans to make most of its dishes halal compliant. GateGourmet, which provides inflight meals for the likes of Cathay Pacific and British Airways, says it wants to standardise production based on cost rather than religious grounds.
BA aims to create super-airline
British Airways and Iberia have drawn up a shopping list of up to 12 airlines which they hope to buy or merge with once their own tie-up has been completed. Airlines in their sights include Qantas, South African Airways, Finnair and AirAsia in a plan that would create the world’s largest airline.