June 19

More articles from the category

June 19

Riyadh Air and Blacklane agree strategic partnership for premium chauffeur services

Riyadh Air, the new Saudi Arabian airline, and Blacklane, a leading global chauffeur-driven service, announced a strategic partnership at the 2025 Paris Air Show. This collaboration aims to elevate Riyadh Air's passenger experience to a new level through high-quality ground transportation services, underscoring both companies' commitment to first-class service. The launch took place in front of a Riyadh Air-liveried A321 aircraft and a vehicle from the Blacklane fleet. The collaboration aims to provide international Business Elite and Business Class guests, as well as eligible loyalty program members, with access to an exclusive chauffeur-driven service. This service includes journeys within a 50-kilometer radius of Riyadh Airport, operated in elegant, high-quality vehicles with professional drivers. The service is directly integrated into Riyadh Air's booking platform, ensuring a seamless integration into the overall travel experience. Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, emphasized: "Our partnership with Blacklane underscores our commitment to delivering Saudi hospitality at the highest international level. Following the introduction of our new Business Class seats, this is the next step in delivering on our premium promise." He emphasized that both companies stand for quality and uncompromising guest orientation from the first to the last kilometer. Dr. Jens Wohltorf, CEO and co-founder of Blacklane, added that the partnership is more than just a service; it is a promise of travel characterized by style, care, and reliability. In addition to the airport service in Riyadh, guests have access to Blacklane's full international offering. This includes airport transfers, intercity travel, intra-city mobility, and chauffeur services on

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Vienna Tourism honors outstanding gastronomy and leisure opportunities

As part of this year's Vienna tourism industry summer festival at the Allianz Stadium in Hütteldorf, the industry awards "Goldener Schani" and "Goldene Jetti" were presented. These awards honor the city's most beautiful beer gardens and the most impressive leisure opportunities. The winners were selected based on a public online vote, followed by a jury decision, with guest votes receiving greater weight. Dominic Schmid, Chairman of the Tourism and Leisure Industry Division of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that last year's new overnight stay record was the result of close cooperation within Vienna's tourism and leisure industry. He emphasized that the catering, hotel, and leisure industries are becoming increasingly intertwined to offer guests—both Viennese and visitors—a comprehensive experience and more attractive offerings. This success, achieved through hard work, is celebrated with the industry awards. The "Goldener Schani" was awarded in four categories for the most beautiful beer gardens: "El Gaucho am Rochusmarkt" won the "Classic Beer Gardens" category. In the "Im Grünen" (Green Gardens) category, the "Gugumucks Gartenbar" in the Wiener Schneckenmanufaktur (Vienna Snail Factory) impressed. The well-known "Amerlingbeisl" was honored as a "Hidden Gem." In the "Above the Rooftops" category, "Chez Bernard" on the top floor of the Hotel Motto received the main prize. The second industry award, the "Golden Jetti," honored companies that, with their innovative and unusual concepts, significantly enrich Vienna's leisure offerings and thus the quality of life in Vienna. The award is named after the Viennese original "Jetti Tant," who once looked after children's leisure activities in families. In the "Culture & Experience" category, the "Johann Strauss Museum - New Dimensions" was honored for its

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Eurocontrol and Aviation Industry Austria discuss the future of European air traffic management

In the latest episode of the podcast "#ON Air," Dr. Peter Malanik, Managing Director of Aviation Industry Austria and recognized aviation expert, spoke with Tânia Cardoso Simões, Director of Aviation Transformation at Eurocontrol, about the future shape of European air traffic management. The conversation focused on optimizing European airspace and increasing operational efficiency through advanced methods. The experts explored how Eurocontrol is working to make European airspace more effective through the use of real-time and historical data. The goal is to improve traffic flow and increase the economic efficiency of flight operations through optimized flight routes. Supporting long-term strategic planning in air traffic was also highlighted as a key point. In this context, Tânia Cardoso Simões emphasized the need for close cooperation between states, industry, the institutions of the European Union, and research. Innovation must be understood as a continuous and strategic development process. Central topics of discussion in this 54th episode of the Aviation Podcast were the data-based management of air traffic, the importance of innovation, and the advancing digitalization in the sector. The insights from such discussions are of great relevance, as European aviation is faced with the challenge of managing the growing volume of traffic efficiently and safely. The optimization of processes and the use of modern technologies are essential to maintain and expand the performance of the airspace. In his podcast, Dr. Peter Malanik regularly conducts discussions with experts from aviation, science, and business to highlight the central role of air traffic and the aviation industry for economic and

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SkyWest orders 60 more Embraer E175s

Embraer, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, has received a firm order from SkyWest, Inc. for 60 aircraft. The agreement also includes purchase rights for an additional 50 aircraft, bringing the potential deal to a total of 110 aircraft. Deliveries of the ordered aircraft, all Embraer E175s, are scheduled to begin in 2027. The firm order is valued at USD 3,6 billion and will significantly strengthen Embraer's order backlog in the second quarter of this year. This major order underpins the long-standing and successful partnership between Embraer and SkyWest and solidifies SkyWest's position as the world's largest operator of E-Jets, particularly the Embraer E175. SkyWest: The World's Largest E-Jet Operator SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc., is already the world's largest owner and operator of Embraer E-Jets with a current fleet of 263 aircraft. With an existing backlog of 16 aircraft, this new order will further expand the company's leadership position. The decision to purchase the Embraer E175 is a logical continuation of SkyWest's fleet strategy, which focuses on this successful regional aircraft. Chip Childs, President and CEO of SkyWest, emphasized the significance of this investment: "As the largest E175 owner and operator worldwide, we are excited to further expand our E175 fleet and enhance our two-class presence. This order allows us to advance our long-term fleet strategy and continue to deliver the leading regional product in the industry." The E175, known for its comfort and efficiency, plays a central role in SkyWest's business model. The ability to offer a two-class configuration is attractive to many passengers and differentiates the product from other regional airlines. Arjan

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Viennese students win prize trip with the Twin City Liner to Bratislava

On June 13, 17, a class from the Fichtnergasse Gymnasium in Vienna's 2025th district claimed their grand prize from the first W24 "Climate Show": a trip on the Twin City Liner to Bratislava. The knowledge quiz, which took place at the end of 2024 at the "48er Tandler" in Vienna's Margareten district, offered Viennese students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and explore questions about the future. City Councilor Jürgen Czernohorszky, who also presented the prize during the broadcast, bid farewell to the winning class. The fast catamaran operated by Central Danube, a joint venture between Wien Holding and Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien, transported the 25 students of class 7C and their accompanying teachers from Vienna to the Slovak capital in just 75 minutes. In Bratislava, the class took a walking tour through the historic old town and visited the castle. There was also enough time for shopping and selfies before the afternoon trip back to Vienna on the fast catamaran. The students were enthusiastic about the special class trip, which represented a welcome conclusion to an intensive school year. City Councillor Jürgen Czernohorszky emphasized the great importance of future issues for young people, as they concern the future of the city and the planet. He highlighted how intensively young people are engaging with these topics and how committed they are to them in their everyday school life. The class representative of 7C also emphasized the joy of the trip and the importance of focusing on modern forms of travel. Severin Leopold and Gerd Krämer, the managing directors of Central Danube, congratulated the winning class and expressed their delight to welcome the students on board.

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Klagenfurt Airport Night Run enters the second round – Running for a good cause

On September 6, 2025, the runway at Klagenfurt Airport will once again be transformed into a spectacular running track: Following its successful premiere last year, the Klagenfurt Airport Night Run is returning for its second edition. Limited to a maximum of 1.500 starting places, ticket sales begin immediately. The event promises a unique running experience on the airport's illuminated apron and runway at night. In cooperation with the "Promote Health, Move Carinthia" initiative of the State of Carinthia and Antenne Kärnten, participants will be treated to a special experience. Starting at 21:00 p.m., running and exercise enthusiasts can complete the approximately 1,5-kilometer route in 5,5 hours, either running or walking. The focus is on the fun of exercise and the shared experience, not on achieving the best time. While all participants' times will be measured and ranked according to categories, the main prizes will be drawn through a bib raffle. A key feature of the run is its charitable purpose: All proceeds from the event benefit the Carinthian Cancer Aid. State Councillor Beate Prettner describes the Airport Night Run as the culmination of her initiative "Promoting Health, Moving Carinthia." She emphasized that the event is more than just a run; it stands for exercise, community, and solidarity. State Governor Martin Gruber expressed his delight at the new edition following last year's great success and invited participants to experience the airport from a different perspective and combine sport with a good cause. Maximilian Wildt, Managing Director of Klagenfurt Airport, emphasized that the Night Run moves people, connects them, and at the same time does good.

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Riyadh Air drives expansion: Rolls-Royce engines secured for new Airbus A350-1000 fleet

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new airline, took a significant step in its rapid expansion at the 2025 Paris Air Show. Following the announcement of an order for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 wide-body aircraft on June 16, 2025, another important announcement quickly followed: The young company has signed an agreement with British engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce to supply 50 Trent XWB-97 engines for its new fleet. This deal, signed on June 17, 2025, solidifies Riyadh Air's position as a future global aviation player and underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing its capital city, Riyadh, into a key international aviation hub, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Fleet Expansion and Strategic Partnerships Riyadh Air, a newcomer to the Saudi Arabian aviation sector, has set itself the goal of serving over 2030 global destinations by 100. To achieve this ambitious goal, the airline is relying on a modern and efficient fleet of wide-body aircraft. The order for up to 2025 Airbus A50-350s, announced at the 1000 Paris Air Show, is a decisive step in this direction. The agreement includes 25 firm orders with purchase rights for a further 25 aircraft. These new aircraft complement Riyadh Air's existing order of 132 aircraft and demonstrate the airline's rapid growth. The choice of engine for such a significant fleet is of utmost strategic importance. On June 17, 2025, the agreement with Rolls-Royce was signed, which provides for the delivery of 50 Trent XWB-97 engines for the new A350-1000 fleet. The signing was carried out by Adam

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Vienna’s Augarten becomes a summer open-air art and pleasure mile

A new summer pop-up called "Freiluft" opens on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in the heart of Vienna's expansive Augarten park. This project, initiated by Paul Rittenauer and curated by Danielle Spera, invites visitors to experience contemporary art, diverse culinary offerings, and a broad cultural program in the open air until August 31, 2025. The initiative aims to create a relaxed meeting place for art and pleasure lovers. Paul Rittenauer, the initiator of the project, emphasized the objective: "'Freiluft' stands for everything that makes a successful summer in Vienna: art, good food, and shared experiences in a relaxed atmosphere. We are creating an open space in which creativity, enjoyment, and encounters naturally combine – surrounded by greenery, in the heart of the city." The opening will center on an open-air exhibition featuring sculptures and installations by a total of 18 artists, including well-known names such as Stylianos Schicho, Lisa Grosskopf, and Billi Thanner. The artworks are freely accessible daily and transform the park into an expansive outdoor gallery. In addition to the artistic offerings, visitors can expect a diverse culinary program. "Tenno Sushi" from Döbling serves experimental sushi, "Ragazzi, Pinsa" offers Roman pinsa and antipasti, while "XO Grill" offers smashed burgers and "Nigls Gastwirtschaft" offers wild boar cheese sausages, currywurst, and other specialties. For a sweet or savory finale, "Die Langos Bar" provides crispy langos and creative toppings. The culinary offerings are intended to cater to a wide range of tastes and complement the art experience. A number of prominent personalities from business, culture, and society have announced their attendance at the opening of the "open-air" project, including representatives from

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Vorarlberg Tourism honors groundbreaking tourism projects

On June 17, 2025, Vorarlberg Tourism honored outstanding projects at the annual "Treffpunkt.Tourismus" event in the Angelika Kauffmann Hall in Schwarzenberg. The awards were given to initiatives that exemplify the "Vorarlberg way of hospitality" and create "places and spaces for the good life" in line with the Tourism Strategy 2030. The prizes recognize future-oriented and economically successful developments in the state's tourism sector. In the "Company Top Performers" category, the Önsche Walser Chuche² received a top prize for its research into regional plant-based ingredients in eight Kleinwalsertal businesses. The jury praised this as "honest, experimental, and deeply communal" hospitality. Recognition went to the Hotel kleiner Löwe in Bregenz for modern hospitality in historic architecture and to the organic restaurant Moritz for its consistent focus on high-quality cuisine using regional products. A special prize was awarded to the Vetterhof for "Culinary Innovation from Surpluses," where the farm transformed products into new creations together with the Hotel Hirschen in Schwarzenberg, and Simon Vetter was honored as a "mentor and networker between agriculture and tourism." In the "Organizations & Institutions" category, the Hittisau Women's Museum & Lech Museum received a main prize. Their exhibition "BLITZBLANK!" (BLACK!) addresses cleaning and raises questions about gender roles and migration, highlighting the cooperation between culture and tourism as well as the appreciation for an often overlooked professional group. Golm Silvretta Lünersee Tourism also received a main prize for its gourmet week centered around the Montafon Stone Sheep, which inspired guests to enjoy regional cuisine. Recognition went to the Gravelbike Festival into the wold, which combines tours, culinary delights, and culture, and to the :alpenarte Bregenzerwald music festival, which presented a new

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Wizz Air relies on Pratt & Whitney engines for more Airbus A321neo aircraft despite maintenance problems

Wizz Air has once again selected Pratt & Whitney engines to power up to 177 additional Airbus A321neo aircraft. The agreement was confirmed on June 17, 2025, at the Paris Air Show and cements the long-standing partnership between the two companies. This decision is notable given that Wizz Air has recently been forced to ground large parts of its existing fleet due to unforeseen maintenance on the current Pratt & Whitney engines. Despite this, Wizz Air CEO József Váradi emphasized the economic benefits of the GTF engines, which are said to offer “unbeatable fuel efficiency.” This new order brings the total number of Wizz Air aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines to 453. Long-standing partnership overshadowed by challenges The relationship between Wizz Air and Pratt & Whitney is one built on a long history. Wizz Air had already selected Pratt & Whitney's GTF engines for a total of 2016 Airbus A2020neo, A276neo, and A320XLR aircraft in 321 and 321. The recent decision to equip a further 177 Airbus A321neo aircraft with the PW1100G-JM Geared Turbofan engines underscores the confidence in the technology and the continuation of an exclusive partnership that has existed since 2003. Rick Deurloo, President of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney, described today's announcement as "another important milestone in our long-standing relationship with Wizz Air and a vote of confidence in the GTF engine." However, the latest decision was not without controversy. It was known that CFM International was also in the running for this lucrative contract. The choice in favor of Pratt & Whitney was made even though Wizz

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