Friday 2 November 2012

IFALPA sources the following items from a wide variety of media and they may not necessarily represent the views of the Federation. Publication in the The Daily News does not infer that IFALPA endorses the views expressed.

1. Honda launches business jet program 2. Ethiopian CAA denies Etihad operating permit 3. Lufthansa terminales partnership with Augsburg Airways 4. Delta donates generously to hurricane relief efforts 5. A piece of aviation history
Honda launches business jet program
Honda Motor is branching out. On Wednesday, the auto motive company announced its US-based passenger aircraft unit will introduce a five-passenger jet, nicknamed the "Civic of the Sky", in the hopes of establishing itself as a majar competitor among aircraft manufacturers. A Honda spokesperson indicated that the HondaJ et, with its distinctive two engines mounted over the wings, is expected to be complete by the end of next year and confirmed that Honda had already received orders from more than 100 customers. Honda will undoubtedly face obstacles as it enters the market with its new program, which is about two years behind, especially in light of the plane's uncommon design and lack of a proven track record. The aircraft, which boasts greater space, fuel efficiency, and a full-size bathroom, will initially target North American and European buyers ata cost of USD$4.5 million.

Ethiopian CAA denies Etihad operating permit

After receiving word that the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority had denied its operating permit, Etihad Airways has announced it will postpone the launch of flights to Addis Ababa - which were scheduled to begin today - until further notice. The Abu Dhabi-based airline's permit was rejected despite a previous memorandum of understanding between Ethiopian and Abu Dhabi governments established in June 2007. Etihad said the UAE and Ethiopian governments have been trying to work toward a resolution for the last six months, but their final meeting in Addis Ababa last week did not end positively. Customers who have purchased flights to Addis Ababa will be assisted in making alternative travel arrangement or refunded in full, Etihad said.

Lufthansa terminates partnership with Augsburg Airways

As part of SCORE, Lufthansa's (LH) cost-cutting program aimed to eliminate 1.5 billion, the airline has announced it will termnate its partnership with regional partner Augsburg Airways (IQ) as of October 2013. The airline will instead concentrate on its regional feed to its subsidiaries, LH CityLine and Air Dolomiti. Augsburg Airways is the second regional airline to cut ti es with Lufthansa this year. Earlier in 2012, the German carrier ended its contract with Stuttgart-based Contact Air.
Delta donates generously to hurricane relief efforts

Yesterday, The Delta Air Lines Foundation announced it would contribute a sum ofUSD$100,000 to the American Red Cross. The funds will go toward Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. Additionally, in its partnership with the American Red Cross, Delta provides complimentary cargo and passenger capacity to transport relief supplies, and help workers commute to and from disaster areas around the world. Delta customers are also encouraged to donate SkyMiles to the American Red Cross through Delta's SkyWish program.
piece of aviation history for 2 November 1922 - QANTAS begins its first scheduled flights, between Charleville, Queensland and Cloncurry, Queensland.