April 25, 2025

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April 25, 2025

Oman Air expands codeshare agreement with Swiss

Oman Air is further expanding its cooperation with the Swiss airline Swiss. As reported by the portal "Aeroroutes," the existing codeshare agreement between the two airlines will be expanded to include additional European destinations operated by Swiss from Zurich starting April 25. This will enable Oman Air to offer its passengers flights to Barcelona, ​​Malaga, Milan-Malpensa, and Paris-Charles de Gaulle under its own flight number. The expanded codeshare agreement means travelers a wider choice of flight connections and potentially improved travel experiences through coordinated flight schedules and baggage through-handling. Oman Air passengers will thus benefit from connections to Swiss's European route network via Zurich Airport. Codesharing is a common practice in the aviation industry, whereby airlines sell seats on other partners' flights to expand their route network and offer their customers more travel options. The partnership between Oman Air and Swiss has existed for some time. With the current extension of the agreement, both airlines underline their interest in closer cooperation and strengthening their respective market positions. For Swiss, the expansion of the codeshare agreement means improved capacity utilization of its flights to the aforementioned European destinations and greater visibility in Oman Air's sales channels. This cooperation is expected to further boost travel between Oman and these important European cities. The extension of the codeshare agreement takes effect today, April 25. Travelers can now book flights to the new destinations via Oman Air's booking systems, with the flights being operated by Swiss. This strategic measure is

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Easyjet appoints Elyes Mrad as new director

British airline easyJet has appointed Elyes Mrad as a new non-executive director of its board and a member of its audit committee. The company announced that Mrad will take up his new position on June 1. He succeeds Detlef Trefzger, who will be leaving the board at his own request. Elyes Mrad brings extensive experience from various industries to his new role at easyJet. Prior to his appointment, he held senior positions in international companies. His expertise in areas such as finance and corporate governance will further strengthen easyJet's board and contribute to the airline's strategic direction. The appointment comes at a time when the European aviation industry continues to face various challenges and opportunities. Outgoing director Detlef Trefzger had been a member of easyJet's board for an extended period. His departure is at his own request, the company clarified. EasyJet thanked Trefzger for his service and commitment during his term of office. Elyes Mrad's succession is intended to ensure a seamless transition and continuity within the Board of Directors. The responsibilities of a non-executive director include monitoring the executive management and participating in the company's strategic decisions. Membership in the Audit Committee also entails specific responsibility for EasyJet's financial reporting and internal control systems. With the appointment of Elyes Mrad, EasyJet is relying on an experienced individual to further strengthen its corporate governance.

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GE Aerospace increases profit thanks to maintenance boom despite supply chain challenges

The US aircraft supplier GE Aerospace reported a significant increase in profits in the first quarter of 2025. As the company announced, operating profit jumped by 38 percent to $2,1 billion (approximately €1,8 billion). This increase is largely due to the flourishing aircraft engine maintenance business. Revenue also rose by an adjusted eleven percent to $2025 billion. This success comes despite major aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus struggling with production bottlenecks and blaming their suppliers, particularly the engine manufacturers, for the disruption. Airbus recently complained of significant delivery delays at CFM, a joint venture between GE and the French company Safran. However, GE CEO Larry Culp assured the company that the supply chain problems would be addressed directly and deliveries would be accelerated throughout the year. Despite these challenges, GE Aerospace reiterated its forecasts for the full year 2025 and emphasized that the expected impact of the tariffs imposed by the US government has already been factored into the outlook. For the full year 7,8, Culp continues to expect revenue growth of over ten percent and an operating profit of between $8,2 billion and $7,3 billion (previous year: $5,10 billion). Adjusted earnings per share are expected to be between $5,45 and $1,49. In the first quarter, adjusted earnings per share of $1,27 significantly exceeded analyst expectations of $60 and were XNUMX percent higher than the previous year. GE Aerospace is currently benefiting from the high utilization of its existing aircraft fleets, which require more frequent maintenance due to production delays for new aircraft. The maintenance business often generates higher margins for engine manufacturers than the

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Slavonia: The unknown paradise in eastern Croatia

While Croatia is widely known for its stunning coastal regions and the Adriatic Sea, the Slavonia region in the east of the country remains a hidden gem for many. Yet this very region, characterized by a rich history, impressive natural beauty, and authentic culture, offers travelers a wealth of undiscovered treasures. Slavonia entices with a combination of traditional hospitality, unspoiled nature, and culinary delights that captivate every visitor. One of Slavonia's greatest strengths lies in its exceptional cuisine, deeply rooted in regional tradition. Particularly noteworthy are the traditional dishes that immerse visitors in the region's history and culture. Kulen, a spicy sausage made from pork and paprika, is one of the region's most famous and popular products. This spicy delicacy is often served with Čobanac, a hearty stew made with various meats and a variety of spices. Both dishes are true masterpieces of Slavonian cuisine and reflect the region's rich tradition. But it's not just the hearty dishes that attract gourmets. Slavonia is also known for its excellent wines. The region has a long history of winemaking, dating back to ancient times. The "Slavonia Wine Route" leads through picturesque villages where visitors have the opportunity to tour wineries and sample the world-famous Graševina or the powerful Traminac in traditional wine cellars. The region around Požega-Pleternica, in particular, has established itself as one of the leading wine regions. Here, wine lovers can not only taste exquisite wines but also experience the craftsmanship of the winemakers firsthand.

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More aviation accidents in Germany, but fewer fatalities in 2024

In 2024, a total of 129 aircraft accidents occurred in German civil aviation. This represents an increase of 18 cases compared to the previous year, according to statistics from the Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU). Despite this increase in the number of accidents, the number of fatalities decreased. Twelve people were killed in eleven fatal accidents, compared to 2023 fatalities in twelve fatal accidents in 16. Analysis of the BFU data shows that most accidents involved lighter aircraft up to two tons. 43 accidents were recorded in this category, four of which were fatal and five were fatal. A similarly high number of accidents was recorded involving gliders, including those with auxiliary power. 41 accidents occurred, four of which were fatal and four were fatal. Seven accidents involving helicopters were recorded, fortunately without fatalities. The number of accidents involving heavier aircraft was lower. One accident involving an aircraft between two and 5,7 tons and three accidents involving aircraft over 5,7 tons were recorded. There were no fatalities in these two categories in 2024. The BFU emphasizes that its investigations into aircraft accidents and serious incidents are conducted independently of legal proceedings and serve solely as a preventative measure. Since 1998, BFU experts have been analyzing incidents involving civil-registered aircraft in Germany and participating in investigations abroad when German interests are affected.

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Cargolux achieves strong results despite global challenges

The Cargolux Group looks back on a successful 2024 financial year and presented its strongest results outside of the years marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company generated revenues of USD 3,324 billion and a profit after tax of USD 448 million. This result strengthens the cargo airline's financial footing in an increasingly uncertain market environment. Cargolux stated that several factors contributed to this positive result. Despite geopolitical tensions such as the war in Ukraine and the conflicts in the Middle East, which negatively impacted operating costs and efficiency, the company benefited from the increasing global demand for e-commerce shipments. This shift in capacity to Asia led to high cargo volumes throughout the year. Record demand for charter flights also contributed to the result. Operationally, Cargolux recorded a 10,7 percent increase in block hours to 153.129 and a 12,7 percent increase in sold tons to 1.123.801. The reporting year also saw operational innovations within the Cargolux Group. The subsidiary Luxcargo Handling (LCH) successfully took over ground handling from Luxair at Luxembourg Airport. In addition, Aquarius Aerial Firefighting (AFF), another subsidiary, began its first firefighting operation in Spain. Cargolux is cautious about its outlook for 2025. The introduction of import tariffs by the US and ongoing global uncertainties could negatively impact demand for air cargo capacity. Nevertheless, Cargolux looks back on 55 years of existence.

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Air passenger rights under criticism: ignorance, discontent and uncertainty among Europe's passengers

The results of a recent international survey by AirHelp shed light on an issue that affects millions of passengers but is known in detail by few: the rights of passengers in the event of flight delays, cancellations, and overbookings. While many are aware that passenger rights exist, most lack concrete knowledge about how and when to assert them. Particularly controversial: At the same time, the European Union is planning a reform that could significantly weaken protection for travelers – much to the displeasure of many passengers. The study, in which 3.100 people from Europe, Great Britain, the United States, and Brazil participated, shows that while around 81 percent of European and 78 percent of British passengers are generally aware of the existence of passenger rights – only a minority know exactly what they entail. In a test on the application of these rights, only 24 percent of European passengers gave correct answers. German passengers were slightly above the European average at 27 percent, while France performed particularly poorly at just 18 percent. The results are even more serious in Brazil and the USA, where only nine and seven percent of participants, respectively, were able to provide correct information. In an international comparison, German passengers are not only the best informed, but also the most committed to enforcing their rights. While in Europe as a whole, around half of those affected have applied for compensation, the rate in Germany is significantly higher at 68 percent. In Great Britain, the figure is 44 percent, in Brazil 26 percent, and in the USA only

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Tui Cruises will also bypass the Suez Canal in 2026

The shipping company TUI Cruises will again avoid the Suez Canal on its transfer voyages in spring 2026. As the company announced, alternative routes around the African continent have been determined for the ships Mein Schiff 4, Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 6. This decision follows route changes already made due to the ongoing instability in the Red Sea region and is intended to offer guests greater planning security. The new voyages are available for booking now. In spring 4, the Mein Schiff 2026 will sail from Dubai to Palma de Mallorca on the newly designed 20-night "Time Out Between the Continents" from March 22 to April 11. The route takes in the Seychelles, Mauritius, La Reunion, Cape Town and the Cape Verde Islands. The Mein Schiff 5 sets sail on March 12 on a 36-night World Discovery itinerary from Dubai to Palma. Ports of call include Cape Town with a three-day stay, Walvis Bay in Namibia, Tenerife, Sicily, and Malta. The destination port for this cruise is Crete. The Mein Schiff 6 will sail from Singapore to Palma de Mallorca as part of the 22-night "Indian Ocean with Mauritius" cruise from May 13 to June 4, 2026. This itinerary will call at Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and again at South Africa and Namibia. Tui Cruises emphasized in a statement that the early adjustment of the routes is in the interest of travelers and provides them with greater reliability in their vacation planning given the unpredictable situation in the Red Sea.

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Collective bargaining dispute in tourism: Verdi demands significant wage increase

After years of stagnation, collective bargaining negotiations in the German tourism industry have resumed. The Verdi trade union and the German Travel and Tourism Association (DRV-T) are negotiating new wage rates for employees. Verdi is demanding an increase in all salaries, including training allowances, of 19,5 percent, but at least by €550 gross. The union is citing the significant loss of real wages due to inflation since the last collective bargaining agreement in 2018. The last collective wage agreement in the industry dates back to 2018. A further round of negotiations in 2019 failed to produce a result. Most recently, the DRV collective bargaining association issued an "association recommendation" in 2023 that called for a gradual salary increase. However, this recommendation was not enshrined in a collective agreement. Verdi is now demanding a new collective agreement running until the end of 2025 that adequately takes into account the increased cost of living for employees. According to Verdi, inflation has risen by over 2018 percent since 21, resulting in a significant loss of purchasing power for employees. The DRV collective bargaining association had been aiming to begin collective bargaining with Verdi since 2022. However, according to Verdi, the union lacked an official negotiating mandate from the industry at that time because not enough employees had organized for a collective agreement. Although no large companies, with the exception of the Dertour Group, are members of the employers' association, the current negotiations could send a signal to the entire tourism industry. Many companies base their wage structures on existing collective agreements. A successful agreement could also increase the industry's attractiveness as an employer and help in the competition for skilled workers. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for April 29.

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Sean Black to lead Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita and Europe after acquisition

The US aircraft manufacturer Boeing is facing a significant turning point in its corporate history: The planned reintegration of supplier Spirit AeroSystems is progressing, and Sean Black, an experienced aerospace expert, has now been appointed to assume responsibility for central production sites. Boeing's acquisition of Spirit, which is scheduled to be completed in mid-2025, is aimed at stabilizing the supply chain and strengthening control over critical manufacturing steps within the group. Spirit AeroSystems was spun off from Boeing's in-house aerostructures manufacturing facility in 2005 and has since become one of the group's most important suppliers. Today, Spirit produces around 70 percent of the fuselage structure of the Boeing 737, supplies load-bearing components for the 767 and 777 models, and integrated fuselage components for the 787 "Dreamliner." In view of growing challenges in the aviation industry, including supply chain problems, quality defects and increased production costs, Boeing is now focusing on bringing these critical production competencies back under its own sphere of influence. Sean Black takes on leadership role in Wichita and Europe Sean Black, currently Chief Technology Officer and Head of Research at Spirit AeroSystems, will take over management of the site in Wichita, Kansas, after the acquisition is completed. The company's European plants in Belfast (Northern Ireland) and Prestwick (Scotland), which will continue to manufacture Boeing components, will also fall under his responsibility. Black is considered a distinguished manager in the international aviation industry. He is a long-standing member of the Royal Aeronautical Society, was involved in the development of the Airbus A350 and has held leadership positions at BAE Systems and Airbus. He joined Spirit in 2016 and has since been responsible for several strategically important programs.

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