08 May 2023
North American Aviation Newsletter
Alaska Airlines and ZeroAvia collaborate on zero-emission aircraft
Alaska Airlines and ZeroAvia are to collaborate on Bombardier Q400 regional turboprop to project, which will be retrofitted with a hydrogen-electric propulsion system in an effort to expand the reach and applicability of zero emissions flight technology. ZeroAvia's hydrogen-electric engine uses fuel cells to generate electricity from hydrogen fuel, before using that electricity to power electric motors which turn the aircraft propellers. Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci said "Alaska Airlines has defined a five-part journey to achieve net zero carbon emissions long-term, but we can't get there alone. New technologies are required to make that future possible, and we're thrilled to partner with industry leader ZeroAvia to make new zero emissions options a reality."
Eastern Airlines to Acquire Hillwood Airways
Eastern Air Holdings Chairman Ken Wooley announced his intention to acquire Hillwood Airways. Eastern Air Holding owns Eastern Airlines, a US airline founded in 2010 that operates Boeing 767s and Boeing 777s, providing both scheduled and non-scheduled passenger service. Hillwood Airways will be merged into Eastern Airlines after the completion of the transaction. Hillwood Airways increased its fleet of narrow-bodied aircraft to include three additional Boeing 737-700 series aircraft in late 2019.
Flair Airlines Announces New Base at Calgary
Flair Airlines announced the creation of new base at Calgary International Airport (YYC) creating 150 jobs, building a new maintenance hangar and launching four new routes. Flair Airlines President & CEO Stephen Jones, said "Our relationship with Calgary International Airport will continue to provide benefits to Albertans who have been paying far too much for air travel. We know our presence in Calgary results in lower fares, more options for Canadian travellers, and strong economic activity in the region. We're proud of our growing crew in Calgary and grateful to the community for supporting us as we establish our Calgary base."
WestJet Group Closes Sunwing Airlines Transaction
The WestJet Group announced that it has closed its acquisition of Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines, and will position the carrier for growth in the leisure market segment, combining Vacation businesses, by retaining Sunwing’s aircraft in Canada year-round, opening new leisure market opportunities. WestJet Group CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech, said “It brings me great pleasure to welcome Sunwing to the group, adding 18 Boeing 737s, 2,000 employees and Canada’s largest vacation tour operator and significantly expanding our footprint in Eastern Canada. Together, we will strategically enhance our sun and leisure offerings to bring even more affordable and accessible travel opportunities to Canadians.”
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