INBO X YOUR LE T T ER S Star letter
GOING GR EEN Te aviation industry has long been seen as the world champion of global warming. Notwithstanding efforts and reports from IATA, the evolution of aircraſt with more fuel- efficient engines and better quality standards, the idea that flying should be either reduced or offset is still suggested by many in the media. Tis would cause significant economic issues, especially for airlines – many of which are struggling to make ends meet. Still, there is something carriers could do to reduce their carbon footprint. I have recently flown domestically in Australia with Qantas and in Europe with the Luſthansa Group. On all but one occasion, rubbish was managed improperly. Flight attendants collected everything in one bin without considerations for plastic, glass or paper. Witnessing this made me think, “where does all this
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end up?” Either everything is disposed of without any recycling effort or the rubbish is separated on the ground by dedicated staff. Te first would be tantamount to a public offence; the second is foolish, from both an economic and an image point of view. It is a shame that at least a bit of recycling effort is not done on-board. While lobbying the industry is crucial and technological
upgrades are needed, what is displayed in front of passengers is priceless, too, and airlines would do well to pay more attention to it.
Marco Morelli, Rome
QANTAS REP LIES : We take our environmental responsibility seriously. In 2017, more than 4,000 tonnes of waste was recycled and we’ve rolled out on-board recycling on our mainline domestic fleet. We’re looking at how we can introduce recycling on smaller regional aircraft, which are constrained by the size of the aircraft. We also partner with a charity that will collect non-perishable food items from aircraft meals to be distributed to schools and those in need.
DODGING BULLE TS On July 6 my wife and I arrived at Manila Airport at 1400 for our 1630 flight to Australia. Terminal 2 is designed in a V shape and used exclusively by Philippine Airlines, with domestic on one side and international on the other. It also has additional security checks. At the first check, security guards ensure you have your passport and a valid ticket to fly that day. Members of the public are not permitted inside the terminal, so farewells are made in the forecourt. Te second security check is carried out immediately
as you enter the terminal, prior to check-in. Here you have to remove all electronic devices and metal objects
NOVEMB ER 2018
to be scanned by the x-ray, along with all your baggage (including checked bags). Our two suitcases came through the other
STAR LE T TER PR IZE
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and two children at Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham Airport (hilton
gardeninn.com).
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end quite promptly, but there was a delay with my backpack. Aſter a couple of minutes I was called over by the x-ray attendant and was advised I had an unusual object in my backpack – a bullet, which was in one of the unlocked side pockets of my backpack. I was asked to explain how the bullet got there. I was quite alarmed. I have read reports in
the media that airport personnel have placed bullets in passengers’ luggage – ostensibly to elicit a bribe. I did not feel comfortable dealing with the x-ray attendants and promptly insisted on dealing with the airport police. Te police arrived within a couple of
minutes and I explained what had occurred. Tey advised that I would not be charged but they had to carry out security checks on my wife and I. Tey asked for our passports. Aſter ten minutes a senior police officer returned our passports and confirmed we would not be charged. I explained that I had never owned a gun or any ammunition and was concerned at what had occurred. Te police officer advised that we were not under any suspicion and we were told there would be no further action. (President Duterte decriminalised a single bullet in passengers’ luggage back in July 2016, as long as there was no accompanying firearm.) We had to sign an incident report and got through the rest of departures, immigration and a final security check with no other issues. On a positive note, Philippine Airline’s new
business class Vantage XL seats on the refitted A330s are a quantum improvement on the old seats. Te service by the cabin crew was also excellent, complemented by the improved menus. Philippine Airlines is now a viable alternative for Australian business travellers, particularly as the Qantas flight from Melbourne requires a domestic connection via Sydney, plus a transfer from the domestic to the international terminal in Manila, adding three hours to the journey. David James, Australia
M ANIL A INT E RNAT IONAL AIRPOR T A U T HORIT Y RESPONDS : Please be informed that the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) government body that operates the four Ninoy Aquino International airport (NAIA) terminals, firmly upholds that there was no irregularity in the actions of the said screening personnel – who simply followed standard operating procedure.
busine s s tr a v eller .com
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