IN BRIEF AIRPORTS
CALL FOR EVIDENCE ON ‘CRITICAL’ ROLE OF REGIONAL AIRPORTS
THE AIRPORTS COMMISSION has launched a consultation paper calling for evidence on the “connectivity and business models” of the UK’s existing airport capacity. The appeal focuses on the domestic and international connectivity provided by regional airports, and airports serving London and the south east, other than Heathrow and Gatwick. The Commission wants recommendations on the
role of regional airports and how the business models of these are developing, and whether the connectivity provided can be enhanced.
“Regional airports and those in London and the south east other than Gatwick and Heathrow remain critical to the Commission’s analysis,” said Sir Howard Davies, chairman of the Airports Commission. “It is clear that in the future these airports will play a crucial national role, especially at a time when the major London airports are operating very close to capacity.” The paper, Utilisation of the UK’s Existing Airport Capacity, was welcomed by Flybe’s CEO Saad Hammad, who said it demonstrates how vital regional connectivity is to the airline industry as a whole. “We pride ourselves on being the UK’s largest
regional airline and offer routes from 35 airports across the UK,” said Hammad. “Our regional bases connect nearly eight million passengers each year.”
AIRPORTS
Newcastle airport raises fears over Scottish ‘yes’
NEWCASTLE AIRPORT FEARS an independent Scotland could damage its future. The airport is concerned a Scottish government would half Air Passenger Duty if it’s granted independence, before eventually abolishing the tax. This could mean travellers making the journey across the border for flights. Newcastle airport planning
director Graeme Mason told the BBC that customers are mobile and will “shop around” for the cheapest flight, and are prepared to travel “quite
BUYINGBUSINESSTRAVEL.COM
long distances to get those flights”.
The airport wants the UK government to offer assurances that it would offer help to the airport should Scotland vote for independence in September. “There are a number of options open to the government. They could abolish APD, or they can match any reductions made by Scotland,” said Mason. “But if they don’t do this, the north of England is going to be at a serious disadvantage to Scotland.”
■ Global car rental group Avis has launched mobile wifi across 12 markets in Europe. The mobile wifi kit, available to Avis customers for £8.50 a day, means users can connect up to five devices – including smartphones, tablets, laptops and other wifi- enabled devices – at any one time. The mobile wifi will also have cross-border connectivity, with no roaming charges.
■ The board of struggling Italian airline Alitalia has voted to accept an offer by Etihad Airways to invest in the company. The deal will reportedly result in Etihad taking a 49 per cent stake in Alitalia, increase the Abu Dhabi airline’s presence in Europe, and provide the Italian carrier with a partner and vital extra funding.
US moves to block Norwegian’s transatlantic plans
WASHINGTON HAS APPROVED legislation that could prevent Norwegian Air from operating flights to the US because of concerns the airline will “dodge international labour rules”. Senate ratification is still required, however, before it can be enacted. Norwegian is currently awaiting the US Department of Transportation’s decision for a foreign air carrier permit. However, if the legislation is approved the airline could be blocked from the US. Some of Europe’s largest unions
have been strongly opposed to Norwegian Air gaining a licence that will enable it to operate from its Irish base in Dublin. The unions have said it will create “unfair competition” and “threaten to degrade labour standards” both in Europe and the US.
The airline denies this claim and said
the move is to gain access to future traffic rights to and from the EU.
HOTELS
AIRLINES
Hilton unveils Curio brand
HILTON WORLDWIDE IS LAUNCHING a new high-end brand for international expansion – Curio. The product will be a selection of “distinctive four- to five- star hotels, ranging from boutique urban hotels to large beachfront resorts”. Hilton has confirmed it has signed letters of intent for properties in five US locations, including Las Vegas and Houston.
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