Singapore Airlines

Cathay Pacific Airways Has Suffered The Biggest Airline Data Breach Ever!

Hong Kong based, Cathay Pacific Airways has become the target of the world’s biggest airline data breach after a hacker accessed credit card, passport and personal details of around 9.4 million customers.

The airline came to know about this breach while conducting online security processes. But, they reported this incident on Thursday, almost 7 months after the hack was done.

While passports, addresses and emails were exposed, flight safety wasn’t compromised and there was no evidence that information has been misused, however, there are still no details revealing the origin of the attack.

Cathay Pacific has said the data stolen included names, nationalities, birth dates, phone numbers, addresses, passport, identity card numbers and expired credit card numbers, among other information & said no passwords were compromised. They have been contacting customers to advise them on how to protect themselves.

Cathay’s CEO, Mr. Rupert Hogg has released an apology statement saying that they are sorry for any inconvenience that may be caused due to this data breach. The statement also said that the airline acted immediately to contain the event, commence a thorough investigation with the assistance of a leading cybersecurity firm, and further strengthened their  IT security measures.

Hong Kong’s privacy commissioner expressed serious concern over the leak and said the office will initiate a compliance check with the airline. A dedicated website, infosecurity.cathaypacific.com, provides information about the event and what affected passengers should do next.

Some local lawmakers criticized Cathay for taking seven months to reveal the breach. Lam Cheuk-ting, a member of the Legislative Council’s security committee, told reporters that many people in Hong Kong are angry and the airline should’ve taken the initiative the very first day it found out.

Cathay’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Mr.Paul Loo said the airline wanted to have an accurate grasp of the situation and didn’t wish to “create unnecessary panic”.

Impacting more people than the population of Cathay Pacific’s home base of Hong Kong, the hack is in another league as compared to breaches reported by British Airways and Delta Air Lines Inc. this year.

Upon the release of this news, the shares of Cathay Pacific plummeted by almost 6.8 %, causing the airline’s market value to drop by $361 million.

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Top 10 Richest Airlines In The World!

We all can agree that flying has somewhat become cheaper than it used to be, thanks to, low-cost carriers which dominate aviation markets around the world.

But then there are some airlines which may seem expensive but offer some world class services to its guests.

In fact, a few airlines go as far as offering showers, spas and playing areas to their passengers cause they can afford to.

We did some digging around and found out which are the 10 richest airlines in the world which provide luxurious services like Healthy Meals, Seat Comfort, Spa, Shower, Cabin Staff Service etc.

1.Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is the richest airline service in the world.

Its fleet comprises of one of the most modern aircrafts out there, which provide the best of everything, from comfort to entertainment, as compared to any other airline.

Surprisingly, it hasn’t been in this business for that long but still stands at the number one position of richest airlines in the world.

It’s one of the youngest airlines holding a lot of awards and recognitions from Skytrax and other corporations.

Qatar Airways ensures the comfort, safety of its passengers and provides healthy meals. They do this by providing specially cooked meals made by onboard chefs and provide a luxurious experience with there comfortable seats and inflight facilities.

2.Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airline is the second richest airline in the world after Qatar Airways.

The airline is known to provide spacious and luxurious airplanes so that their guest can travel in peace.

In fact, it is regarded as the best airline in Asia based on the awards it has got and customer reviews. It has won many awards such as “Best Airline In Asia”, “Best airline cabin crew”, “Best first class” and many more.

It has a fleet size of 105 aircraft, which includes the Airbus A380, the largest passenger airplane in the world.

3.Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Airlines have been named “Airline Of The Year” on 4 occasions and there is a good reason for that.

Its first class ticket costs $31000 however, it’s completely worth it, due the facilities and luxuries provided to its customers.

The airline is a member of the global airline alliance and has a fleet of 150 airplanes which fly to 200 destinations throughout the world.

In 2017, the airline was awarded with “The Best Premium Economy Class” by Skytrax.

4.Turkish Airlines

It is one of the best airlines in the world in terms of services and amenities provided, be it in the economy class or first class cabin.

Their airplanes have a children’s playroom, library, billiards room, and teleconference rooms. This luxurious airline is very comfortable which provides its passengers with massage beds and showers sections.

The airline has received numerous accolades which include the best airline in south Europe from 2009 to 2016, the best airline in Europe for 5 consecutive times and best business class lounge in 2015.

This airline is valued at more than $3 billion.

5.Emirates

The airline was founded in the year 1985, starting initially with just 2 aircraft, but now it has a vast fleet of about 230 aircraft flying to over 140 sites including 80 countries.

It was considered the richest airline in the world before Qatar Airways took over.

It has received more than 500 international awards, one of which is the “Best Inflight-Entertainment” award, which they have won for the past 12 consecutive years.

It is currently the largest and the best airline in the Middle-East.

6.Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways is the national airline of United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The airlines commenced operations in 2003 and currently has a fleet size of 126 airplanes which fly to more than 116 destinations around the world.

It has a workforce of more than 20000 people and operates a 1000 flights per week.

In fact, it has received the Best Airline in the world award in 2016, amongst many accolades.

7.All Nippon Airways(ANA)

The first-class ticket of this airline costs anywhere between $6500 to $7500 due to its extra seat cushioning, comforts and amenities.

The Japanese airline was founded in 1952 and is ranked as the 7th richest airline in the world.

It’s the only Japan-based airline which has been given a 5-star rating for the past 4 consecutive years.

The airline has a fleet of 221 airplanes and has the best cabin crew in the world, which provide quality customer care services.

8.Eva Air

Eva Air is the second largest airline in Taiwan which flies over 60 international destinations in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

It is famous for its customer service and cabin crew all around the world.

The airline is one of the eight airlines in the world who have got a 5-star rating. The airline is currently the best when it comes to Business class seats.

9.Garuda Indonesia

The Indonesian airline, which was on the verge of shutting down due to financial issues, is among the top 10 richest airlines in the world.

It is rated as 5 star by Skytrax for the world-class services and facilities it provides to its clients.

The Garuda Indonesia Airline has been the winner of ‘world’s best cabin crew’ as well as ‘world’s best economy class airline’ award.

It is also known as the “Best Regional Airline In The World”, which flies to 40 domestic and 36 international destinations.

10.Qantas

Founded in 1920, Qantas is the 3rd oldest airline in the world which flies to many international destinations and airports.

It is Australia’s best airline and has won many international awards for its world-class facilities and services it provides to its customers.

In fact, the airline was awarded the ‘Best Premium Economy Airline’ and “Airline Excellence Award” in 2015.

The above-mentioned airlines are also the best airlines in the world in terms of cabin crew services based on Skytrax ratings. So before you fly with an airline, it is important to check its Skytrax rating.

There are currently only 8 airlines in the world who have been provided with a 5 star Skytrax rating. Airlines with a 3 or more star rating are known to provide a pleasant flight experience

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Singapore Airlines Successfully Conducts The World’s Longest Flight!

Singapore Airlines has successfully carried out the world’s longest flight!

The airline’s Flight SQ22 departed at approximately 11:35 p.m. yesterday for New York with 150 passengers and 17 crew on board. The flight had a journey time of 19 hours.

This journey was made possible by the aircraft, an Airbus A350-900ULR, which has a twin-engine with a modified system that burns 25 percent less fuel. It can carry up to 161 passengers – 67 in business class and 94 in premium economy.

The flight can take up to 18 hours and 45 minutes but the pilots have reserve fuel in the aircraft to make it capable of flying more than 20 hours non-stop, in case of an emergency.

Two pilots, a special “wellness” menu and more than seven weeks’ worth of film and television entertainment accompanied the passengers on the 16,700-kilometre (10,400-mile) journey to the Big Apple.

The cabin has higher-than-normal ceilings, larger windows and lighting designed to reduce jet lag. This has been done to lessen the stresses that can accompany any passenger after spending almost a day on an airplane.

To promote healthy eating, the airline offered a special menu which included organic dishes.

Singapore Airlines originally flew the route for nine years using the four-engine A340-500 before abandoning it in 2013 because high oil prices made the service unprofitable.

Previously the record for the world’s longest flight was held by Qatar Airways Flight 921 from Auckland to Doha, which takes 17 hours 40 minutes. However, Singapore Airlines has now officially broken that record.

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17 Airlines Keen To Operate From Kannur International Airport In Kerala!

According to the Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, 11 international and 6 national airlines have expressed their willingness to conduct services from Kannur International Airport.

The international airlines include Emirates, Etihad, Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Saudia, Silk Air, Air Asia and Malindo Air. Domestic carriers such as Air India, Air India Express, Jet Airways, Indigo, SpiceJet and Go Air will operate out of Kannur International Airport.

Mr Vijayan was speaking at the annual public meeting of the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, where other issues related to the Kannur airport were also discussed.

Here are the key points from the meeting-

  • Authorities are planning to increase the length of Kannur airport’s runway from 3050 meters to 4000 meters. The formalities of acquisition of lands are in progress. The CM said that Kannur Airport will become the largest airport in Kerala.
  • The Kerala police will have the temporary responsibility of immigration. Air India Services Limited and Celebi Ground Handling have the responsibility of ground handling services.
  • Construction of terminal building and arranging facilities inside terminal have been completed.
  • Monti Carlo Limited has been given Rs 113 Crore to construct the International Air Cargo Complex, 4 storeyed airport office building, 5 storeyed CISF residence building and the approaching roads to the airport. They have also been given the task of lighting and decorating the airport.
  • 29 people in the families who lost houses when the government acquired lands were appointed in different positions. The remaining people in this category will be appointed through Air India ITSL, ground/cargo handling agency of the airport.
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In-Flight Internet & Calling Services May Start In October 2018!

The telecom department is all set to allow in-flight calls and internet services on airplanes in India by October end this year.

The Department of Telecommunications(DoT) has said that they are in the final stages of in-flight connectivity license norms and the service option will be given to carriers and telecom companies within two months

DoT has largely followed all recommendations put forth by the Telecom Regulatory Authority Of India (TRAI) in terms of drafting guidelines. After the department clear the plan, an estimated two weeks will be required for the Law Ministry’s approval.

There have been meetings with both telecom operators and airlines and some players have shown interest in offering the services.

In January 2018, TRAI issued recommendations to allow both calling and Internet services on domestic flights. As part of the in-flight connectivity proposal, the Telecom Commission will initially allow Wi-Fi on flights and slowly get into voice services as well.

The internet services will be allowed through Wi-Fi onboard. For calling services, the airplane/flight mode on the phone will have to be kept off. It is expected that consumers will need to pay an additional fee to avail these in-flight services, however, telecom companies may gradually throw-in bundled packages to attract frequent fliers.

While there is no immediate clarity on pricing of such services, analysts say that it could be much higher than the rates for mobile services on the ground. This is because airlines will have to make an initial investment to install the equipment required to support in-flight connectivity.

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Jet Airways Faces Major Financial Turbulence!

In a bid to revive their financial condition, Jet airways is looking to sell a part of its stake and has approached investment bankers to help them out.

India’s second largest airline, by market share, has been going through a rough patch as they have been left cashed strapped due to high fuel prices, rising competition and lack of expansion in the past 6 months.

The airline is looking to raise immediate cash and the stake sale may include Jet Airways founder, Mr. Naresh Goyal, offloading a part of the promoters share in the company. Mr. Goyal owns a majority stake of 51 percent in the airline while Etihad owns 24 percent stake.

Jet Airways has reported a loss of Rs 636.45 Crores in FY 2017, while its competitors SpiceJet and IndiGo Airlines registered a profit of Rs 566.66 Crores & Rs 242.37 Crores respectively.

The senior management team of the airline informed its employees in several face-to-face meetings that the carrier’s financials are in a bad shape and drastic measures need to be taken to cut costs. They have said the airline will not operate more than 60 days if these measures are not taken.

Apart from selling shares in the airline, Jet’s top management has pitched for a 25 percent cut in their staff’s (Including pilots) salary and a reduction in the number of leaves to reduce employee cost.

The airline held a meeting with their pilots in Delhi and Mumbai on 1st & 2nd of August for negotiating these terms. Jet Airways CEO Mr.Vinay Dube, EVP Flight Operations & Engineering, Mr. Nikhil Vaid and Chief People Officer Mr. Rahul Taneja, addressed the pilots.

This was followed by an open house discussion, for the proposed salary cut, with the representatives of the airline’s pilot union, National Aviation Guild (NAG).Currently, Jet Airways has 2,000 pilots and a workforce of 16,000 people.

Jet Airways is not the only carrier to be affected by intense cut-throat competition and rising fuel costs. Many domestic airlines have reported a drop in profits for the first quarter of this fiscal year.

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Air India Records Highest Number Of Passenger Complaints In June 2018

With the Air India disinvestment falling into shambles, it seems like the debt-ridden airline can’t catch a break.

The state-owned airline had the most number of complaints lodged against it, amongst all domestic airlines, in June 2018.

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) domestic traffic report, a total of 677 passenger complaints were registered last month against different airlines in India.

Here are all the details about the report –

  • Air India topped this list with 237 complaints registered against them.
  • Jet Airways & its low-cost subsidiary ‘Jet Lite’ stood second with 199 complaints against them.
  • IndiGo had a total of 140 complaints registered against it.
  • Complaints against airlines such as AirAsia, Vistara, TruJet & Air Odisha were in single digits.
  • Air Deccan & Zoom Air recorded no complaints against them.

Almost 29 % of the total complaints were due to flight operation problems such as delays, 27 % were due to baggage handling issues and 25 % of complaints were against customer service related issues.

The remaining 19 % of the complains were related to various other reasons such as staff behaviour, refund, airfare and food catering.

The DGCA report shows that although the percentage of complaints against flight operations and customer service were lesser in June as compared to the previous two months, complaints related to baggage, refund and staff behaviour had risen.

Out of the 677 complaints, 615 issues have been dealt with, however, 62 cases still remain unsolved.

The report also stated that the number of passengers travelling by air in the month of June has drastically reduced as compared to April & May, due to the end of the tourist season.

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Air India Puts Restriction On ‘Powder-Like Substances’ In Carry-On Bags!

Air India has upped its security measures for USA bound flights!

The state-owned international airline has restricted passengers, flying to America, from carrying ‘powder-like substances’ in carry-on bags.

Here are the details of the new rule –

  • Passengers cannot carry more than 350 grams of powdered substances in carry-on bags.
  • These include items like sugar, ground coffee, cosmetics, flour etc.
  • Medically prescribed powder-like substances such as baby formula or cremated remains can be carried, however, they have to be packed in sealed containers.
  • Air India has already started implementing this rule and has advised passengers to pack such items in check-in luggage.

Last month the US Department Of Homeland Security wrote a directive to the airline asking them to implement this rule for security purposes.

In 2017, the US Transportation Security Administration(TSA) enacted this rule after a failed terrorist attack on an Australia bound Gulf airline. Reports say that the terrorists used an improvised explosive device using powdered explosives.

Flyers boarding Air India from UAE and other Gulf nations will also have to comply with this rule. In fact, Dubai based Emirates Airlines has issued a notice saying that powder like substances have to be checked-in and won’t be permitted in carry-on bags.

Air India is the only India-based airline which operates non-stop flights from Delhi and Mumbai to American cities like New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Washington DC. Along with them, US-based United airlines also operates direct flights between the 2 countries.

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