Stock markets are in freefall over the COVID-19 pandemic and Europe is in a panic over Trump’s travel ban. But this is only the beginning.
KLM
Air France gives in to pilots
Pilots striking against Air France over a proposed expansion of the airline via subsidiary Transavia have apparently won. Air France and KLM have now announced their intention of dropping the Transavia Europe operation.
Air France strike grounds half of flights
Air France has said more than half the airline’s flights will have to be grounded on account of a week-long pilot’s strike. The airline’s plans to start its own low cost carrier are at the center of the dispute that had crippled the airline this morning.
Xiamen Promotes KLM Direct Netherlands Route
A move by China’s Fujian Provincial Tourism Bureau and the Xiamen Tourism Bureau to bump up travel to and from the coastal China city shows great promise. Launched as “Go to Amoy” in conjunction with Netherlands airline company KLM, the campaign pushes the direct 12 hour flight between cities.
Europe Airlines and Economic Engines Lost
According to a report from the CAPA Center for Aviation, the 13 largest European airlines lost an aggregate net profit of some 72% last year. With costs growing faster than revenues (8.5% versus 8%) it seems clear some of these 13 will founder if things don’t change.
Air France-KLM Changes Leadership
Air France-KLM is to have new leadership according to news from the company. Current CEO Jean-Cyril Spinetta, along with Vice Chairman Leo van Wijk step down as of July 1st of this year. , we had a twofold objective,” the pair declared in a joint statement.
KLM Ramps Up Budapest Flights
According to news from Budapest Airport, Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM) will increase flight frequency for at the airport to 27 flights weekly. Starting on April 28th of the coming year, KLM will operate between Amsterdam and Budapest four times daily.
Etihad Airways Eyeballs Russia Expansion
Etihad Airways’ non-stop services to Moscow were the topic of a press release by the UAE flag carrier last Monday.
Estonia, The Baltic Tiger of Economics and Travel
The EU’s most progressive and potentially successful partner states, Estonia, moves forward into the euro zone. The Baltic state’s economy is renown for its recent growth. Estonia as a travel destination leaves little to be desired as well. Will the businessmen of Estonia catch up to the digital age though?