JFK Millennium Partners, developer and operator of JFK Airport’s Terminal 6, announced today that Aer Lingus will be anchoring the new facility. The airline will begin operations at Terminal 6 on its opening day in early 2026. Passengers can expect a state-of-the-art terminal with curated artwork, spacious shopping and dining, and enhanced passenger amenities.
Swiipr, a travel paytech company that specializes in digitizing disruption payments for airlines, has raised £6 million in Series A funding led by Octopus Ventures. The funds will support the company’s expansion, product development, and international growth strategy. Swiipr’s digital platform offers airlines virtual and physical prepaid compensation cards, a mobile app, and real-time retail insights, enabling them to streamline disruption payments, enhance passenger experience, and reduce costs. The platform also includes welfare cards for instant food and beverage payments during flight delays. Swiipr currently serves 26 airlines in 70 countries, including a major flag carrier with 4,000 staff using the platform in over 167 airports globally.
Qatar Airways has emerged victorious as Airline of the Year 2024, according to the prestigious AirlineRatings.com rankings. The airline surpassed industry giants like Air New Zealand, Korean Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airways, and Emirates, showcasing its exceptional performance in key areas such as safety, passenger experience, and operational efficiency.
The airport baggage handling system market is poised for substantial growth, with a projected valuation of USD 17.5 billion by 2032. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for air travel, which has led to a need for efficient and reliable baggage management solutions. Airports are recognizing the importance of minimizing lost luggage and reducing wait times to enhance passenger experience, leading to strategic investments in advanced baggage handling systems.
Newcastle Airport is set to welcome a record number of passengers this summer, with over 3.5 million expected to pass through its gates. In anticipation of the increased traffic, the airport has invested £20 million in upgrades to enhance the passenger experience. These upgrades include a new security search area, revamped catering facilities, and the introduction of the world’s first three-tier lounge product.
Former Jet Airways CEO Sanjiv Kapoor has criticized the long entry queues and identification card checks at Indian airports, calling it a “bottleneck” for passengers. Kapoor suggested exploring alternative methods that do not hinder passenger flow, while acknowledging the utility of the DigiYatra app for tech-savvy travelers. The DigiYatra initiative, utilizing facial recognition technology for contactless identification, is currently operational at 13 Indian airports. While some social media users support Kapoor’s views, others emphasize the importance of security measures to prevent unauthorized airport access.
The Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East / ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference, and Exhibition (WAGA 2024) has commenced in Riyadh, bringing together high-level executives, policymakers, and industry experts from around the world. The conference, themed ‘The Global Race: How to Stand Out in a Competitive Airport Ecosystem,’ will focus on developing sustainable air travel and enhancing airport competitiveness through initiatives centered on environmental sustainability, connectivity, and passenger experience.
In a unique marketing move, London Gatwick Airport has launched the ‘Sorry for the Convenience’ campaign, turning its exceptional efficiency into a tongue-in-cheek apology. The initiative highlights Gatwick’s speedy security processes, extensive airline options, and convenient connections to London and beyond, aiming to attract more passengers and showcase its seamless travel experience.
Flydubai, the budget carrier based in Dubai, has announced a significant retrofit project aimed at upgrading the cabin interiors of its modern Boeing aircraft. The multi-million dollar initiative, planned for completion by the end of the year, is a key part of the airline’s commitment to enhance passenger experience and prepare for future growth.
Starting May 1, 2024, TSA PreCheck lanes at Bradley International Airport will move to the secondary TSA screening checkpoint between the United Airlines ticket counter and the walkway to the Sheraton Hotel. This change is intended to improve efficiency and convenience for travelers, with standard TSA screening lanes remaining at the primary checkpoint. CLEAR services will be available at both security checkpoints.
