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Cathay Pacific Eyeing More U.S. Service

Cathay Pacific will continue “to look for new opportunities” in the U.S., Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau told AirlineGeeks.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-300ER (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Cathay Pacific will continue “to look for new opportunities” in the U.S., Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau told AirlineGeeks.

On Thursday, the carrier launched its newest route from Hong Kong to Dallas/Fort Worth. At 8,120 miles, the service is Cathay Pacific’s longest by distance.

“But I think the immediate target I gave to my team is [to] make sure that the DFW flight is a success,” Lau said during an interview on Wednesday. “And if possible, step it up to a daily flight as soon as possible because I think we need a good daily product in order to achieve all the connections.”

American served this route until 2020 before pulling out due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, Cathay hopes to feed connections at American’s Dallas/Fort Worth hub.

“Dallas, obviously, is a very good candidate. … [W]e want to not just connect between Dallas and Hong Kong, but also beyond Dallas to other parts of the Americas,” Lau added. “So I think here with American Airlines as our partner, I think it’s great that we can use Dallas as a hub in a way also to expand our other opportunities.”

Several oneworld Alliance members have added service to Dallas/Fort Worth in recent years, including Fiji Airways and Iberia.

More Service on the Horizon

Despite economic slowdowns in the U.S., Lau says demand for Asian destinations remains strong. “We continue to see very good potential in the U.S. market, and of course, we want to expand our network as well,” she shared.

In addition to Dallas/Fort Worth, Cathay Pacific serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Boston in the U.S.

“Our U.S. flights had been performing really well in the past couple of years with very strong load factors. Even currently, Easter has just passed. I think the flights are still pretty full,” Lau continued. “And looking at summer bookings, we are still seeing very strong demand.”

Cathay Pacific’s A350-1000 enters the gate at Dulles (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Ben Suskind)

Between 2018 and 2020, the airline also served Washington Dulles, along with Seattle, where service began in 2019. Both these routes were axed due to the pandemic.

“On top of our current network, we back then had Washington and Seattle for a very short period. Going forward … now that we already have a pretty solid foundation in our core U.S. ports, yes. I think we’ll continue to look for new opportunities.”

“Beyond DFW … we’ll also be looking at other opportunities within the U.S.,” she added.

The ‘White Lotus’ Effect

HBO’s hit show “The White Lotus” aired its latest season last month, which took place in Thailand. This has prompted some interest from U.S. consumers, Lau said.

“I think a lot of U.S. people still want to travel somewhere for the holidays, and I think Asia is a very good choice. I heard from my team actually. There’s this HBO series ‘The White Lotus,’” she shared. “… So I guess that will also attract more people wanting to go to Asia, experience all these hot destinations as well.”

Leadership at United had similar comments about the series’ impact on travel to Thailand, with the airline recently announcing service to Bangkok.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

Union Slams Proposed Allegiant-Viva Aerobus Partnership

The union argues that an agreement between the carriers would ‘give a majority of jobs’ to Mexican crews with Viva Aerobus.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Allegiant A319
An Allegiant A319 in Pittsburgh. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

The Teamsters Union has announced that it “strongly opposes” Allegiant’s proposed joint venture with Mexico-based ultra-low-cost carrier Viva Aerobus.

In a news release emailed to AirlineGeeks on Wednesday, the union stated that Allegiant Air is seeking regulatory approval to “give a majority of jobs and flying hours to Mexican crews with Viva Aerobus.”

“We see Allegiant’s proposal for what it is –– a shameless attempt to lower our members’ standard of living, all to enrich Allegiant’s greedy executives,” said Teamsters General President, Sean O’Brien, in the release. “Allegiant’s un-American attempt to outsource Teamsters work to foreign crews is unacceptable. Allegiant pilots and customers deserve better than this carrier’s disrespect.”

The proposed “Trade Alliance Agreement,” drafted in December 2021, would grow low-cost, nonstop flight alternatives between the U.S. and Mexico. Per the agreement, Allegiant would also make a $50 million equity investment in Viva Aerobus.

Viva Aerobus A320
A Viva Aerobus Airbus A320 (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

The proposal has been pending government approval for years now, and the Teamsters have urged the Department of Transportation to deny Allegiant Air’s and Viva Aerobus’ most recent motion for approval.

On April 17, Allegiant Air pilots represented by Teamsters Local 2118 requested that the National Mediation Board release them from mediation with the carrier, stepping closer to a possible strike.

Teamsters Local 2118 represents 1,400 Allegiant Air pilots across the U.S. Josh Alen, the negotiations chair for Local 2118, said in Wednesday’s news release that Allegiant’s application with Viva Aerobus will “kill American jobs.”

“While we support the development of new routes and business for Allegiant, their application with Viva Aerobus will kill American jobs and set a dangerous precedent in the airline industry,” he said. “It is extremely insulting that Allegiant would threaten to outsource our work in the middle of contract negotiations. We will not rest until Allegiant recognizes the value we provide and protects our work here in the United States.”

An Allegiant spokesperson told AirlineGeeks in an emailed statement that on April 4, the carrier renewed its application with the Department of Transportation, asking them to resume considering the joint venture with Viva Aerobus.

“This alliance, if approved, will provide tremendous benefits to consumers seeking affordable, nonstop travel between the U.S. and Mexico,” the spokesperson said. “Allegiant currently doesn’t provide transborder flying, so this is an opportunity to expand our service into Mexico while giving our pilots a chance to fly new routes that are not otherwise available to them at this time. A joint venture between the two airlines will be purely additive to Allegiant’s network, as pilots from Mexico are prohibited by law from doing point-to-point flying in the U.S.”

AirlineGeeks.com Staff

AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.

Spirit to be Publicly Traded Again

Spirit announced Thursday that its common stock has been approved for listing once again on the NYSE American stock exchange.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Spirit A321
A Spirit Airbus A321 (Photo: Shutterstock | Ron Adar)

Spirit announced Thursday that its common stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE American stock exchange.

A news release published by Spirit stated that trading for the company is expected to begin under the symbol FLYY starting on Tuesday. The announcement comes days after Dave Davis was appointed as the new CEO of the airline on Monday.

“Listing our common stock on the NYSE American is an important next step in Spirit’s continued transformation as we remain focused on returning to profitability and positioning our airline for long-term success,” Davis said in the release.

Spirit filed for bankruptcy late last year after years of quarterly losses and growing debt – which may have been exacerbated by a federally blocked merger deal between the ultra-low-cost carrier and JetBlue.

The decision prompted anger from shareholders, who in December sent letters to the judge presiding over the bankruptcy slamming Spirit’s leadership for supporting a deal that would cancel their shares.

Spirit’s first A321neo (Photo: Spirit Airlines)

Another investor created their own website mocking the company and its former CEO.

In February, after failing to make a merger deal with Frontier, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York approved Spirit’s plan to exit bankruptcy. This “lender-backed take-private deal” gave control of the airline to top bondholders.

Spirit’s old stock traded under the symbol SAVE was delisted from the NYSE on November 18, 2024. Afterwards, the company traded over-the-counter under the symbol SAVEQ, which was since nullified.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff

AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.

United Invests in JetZero Aircraft

United is advancing its carbon reduction strategy by investing in JetZero’s aircraft, which could lower fuel consumption.

Tolga Karadeniz
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

United Airlines' investment in JetZero's next-gen aircraft (Photo: PRNewsFoto | United Airlines)

United has made an investment in JetZero, an aerospace startup developing blended wing body (BWB) aircraft. The agreement includes a potential order for up to 200 of JetZero’s next-generation aircraft, consisting of an initial purchase of 100 airplanes, with an option to acquire an additional 100 units.

This deal is contingent on JetZero meeting key development milestones, which include the successful completion of the full-scale demonstrator by 2027.

JetZero’s Z4 design promises to significantly reduce fuel burn, with estimates suggesting a 50% reduction in fuel consumption per passenger mile compared to conventional aircraft of similar size. The Z4 is designed to operate on both traditional jet fuel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

“The investment reflects our vision to innovate in areas that not only benefit our operational efficiency but enhance the overall customer experience,” said Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures (UAV). “JetZero’s BWB design offers a unique opportunity to improve fuel efficiency while providing a larger, more comfortable cabin for passengers.”

In addition to United, other major carriers have also expressed interest in JetZero’s aircraft design. Alaska has made an investment through its Alaska Star Ventures program, supporting the startup’s sustainable aviation goals. Delta has partnered with JetZero to provide operational expertise for the Z4 model, while EasyJet is exploring how the BWB design can be integrated with hydrogen-powered technology to further reduce carbon emissions.

Fuel Efficiency and Seamless Integration

The Z4’s unconventional airframe shape — merging wings and fuselage — reduces drag and increases lift, helping to minimize fuel usage, particularly on long-haul flights. For instance, a flight from New York/Newark to Palma de Mallorca, Spain, would use up to 45% less fuel compared to current twin-aisle aircraft operating the same route.

This agreement comes on the heels of a $235 million contract JetZero received from the U.S. Air Force in 2023 to develop the full-scale demonstrator. The Air Force sees potential in the BWB design for military applications such as air transport and refueling tankers.

Tolga Karadeniz

Tolga is a dedicated aviation enthusiast with years of experience in the industry. From an early age, his fascination with aviation went beyond a mere passion for travel, evolving into a deliberate exploration of the complex mechanics and engineering behind aircraft. As a writer, he aims to share insights , providing readers with a view into the complex inner workings of the aviation industry.

U.S. Service on the Horizon for Thai Airlines

After a decade of suspension, Thailand’s airlines could resume service to the U.S. in the near future after a safety rating change.

Pete Ainsley
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Thai Airways 777-300ER
A Thai Airways Boeing 777 during taxi. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

After a decade of suspension, Thailand’s airlines could resume service to the U.S. in the near future. It comes after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) upgraded Thailand’s air safety to Category 1.

Back in 2015, Thailand was downgraded to Category 2 due to a shortage of qualified flight inspectors and certification problems in transporting hazardous goods. The FAA had identified 36 safety concerns based on International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.

Under the rating of Category 2, Thai airlines couldn’t provide service or codeshare with other countries’ carriers to the U.S. Also, the rating could deeply affect Thai pilots’ opportunities.

Expand Its Route Map

The decision could be a shot in the arm to Thai aviation. According to the Thai government, Thai airlines could expand their route maps or increase flight frequencies to South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong. After the resumption, passengers could take advantage of the new policy, such as a competitive fare to the U.S. In addition, Thai pilots can pursue more opportunities.

Thai Airways could stand to benefit from the latest announcement. Prior to the suspension, the flag carrier used to operate between Bangkok and New York, along with Los Angeles. The airline currently owns a fleet of 79 aircraft operating flights to 64 destinations.

 

Pete Ainsley

American Sees $200 Million Revenue Hit From January Crash

CEO Robert Isom said he’d like to see the FAA restrict this mix of fixed-wing and helicopter traffic at other congested airports.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

American A321
American A321 at Reagan National. (Photo: Ryan Ewing)

American reported a revenue hit from January’s deadly midair collision involving a CRJ-700 and Black Hawk helicopter near Washington. All 67 on board both aircraft were killed in the accident, which remains under investigation.

The airline’s CEO, Robert Isom, said the accident impacted its revenue by roughly $200 million in the first quarter. PSA Airlines – which was operating flight 5342 – is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Fort Worth, Texas-based carrier.

“Before moving on, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the tragedy and pay tribute to the lives lost in the accident. We’re supporting the families and loved ones through our Office of Continued Care and Outreach, which we established within a week of the accident,” Isom said during the airline’s first-quarter earnings call on Thursday.

The airline is also working with the U.S. government on bolstering aviation safety, he added.

The airline reported a loss of $473 million during the first quarter, citing ongoing economic uncertainty.

Airport Traffic Changes

The Federal Aviation Administration has moved to restrict helicopter traffic near Reagan National Airport following the accident. Recently, the agency identified Las Vegas’ Harry Reid Airport as a similar “hotspot” with a mix of fixed-wing and helicopter traffic.

Isom said he’d like to see the FAA restrict this mix of traffic at other congested airports.

“That’s what we do to make aviation even safer,” he told CNBC. “… I think any big city [airport] is something we need to take a look at.”

The airline looks at data from “everywhere,” Isom continued, to enhance safety.

In February, Reagan National saw a 12% drop in passenger volume. The airport is a hub for American.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

Lawmakers Call FAA to Action Over Ongoing DCA Safety Concerns

Legislators are calling for the Federal Aviation Administration to address “considerable concerns” over aircraft operation around DCA.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

American Reagan National
American Airlines aircraft at Reagan National (Photo: Shutterstock | Thomas Barrat)

Legislators are calling for the Federal Aviation Administration to address “considerable concerns” over aircraft operation safety in and around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C.

In a letter sent to FAA Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau on Monday, representatives Rick Larsen, Steve Cohen, and Tammy Duckworth said January’s midair collision drew increased scrutiny to “numerous underlying issues” with standard operating procedures and air traffic controller hiring at DCA.

The letter acknowledged the FAA’s actions to increase safety at the airport. These actions included prohibiting operations on helicopter route 4 at DCA, examining helicopter operations at 21 other U.S. airports, reviewing air traffic controllers staffing IN THE tower and reviewing DCA’s current hourly aircraft arrival rates.

“Despite these efforts, incidents at DCA continue to occur at an alarming rate,” the letter stated.

Too Many Incidents

The letter then referenced an incident on March 27 where a brawl between two air traffic controllers at DCA’s tower led to one controller being arrested and put on administrative leave.

“Although the cause of the altercation has yet to be determined, we remain concerned that the mounting stress arising from the January 29 accident is having a lasting effect on air traffic controllers at DCA and that FAA’s dispatching of a ‘stress management team,’ while welcome, may be an insufficient response,” the letter stated.

The next day, on March 28, a Delta jet came close to colliding with a U.S. Air Force training aircraft while they were conducting a flyby of the Arlington National Cemetery near DCA.

A Delta Airbus A321 rockets out of Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C.
(Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

“After Delta Airlines Flight 2983 departed Runway 19, separation was lost with the Talons, resulting in a serious near-miss event that allowed a distance between the two aircraft to be as close as 3,900 feet laterally and 100 feet vertically,” the letter stated.

Additionally, the letter cited another incident on April 10, where two American Eagle flights operated by PSA Airlines and Republic Airways made contact on a taxiway.

“Together these planes were transporting a total of 143 passengers to Charleston International

Airport (CHS) in South Carolina and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York,” the letter stated. “Thankfully, there were no reported injuries and both aircraft safely returned to the terminal and were taken out of service for inspection.”

“However, this event is yet another in a growing pattern of concerning incidents at this congested airport.”

Recommendations

Given the recent track record of issues at DCA, the three representatives called on the FAA to take several actions, including:

  • Coordinating with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and the Collaborative Resource Working Group to implement staffing goals at the DCA air traffic control tower and keep support roles fully staffed.
  • Uphold the reduced hourly aircraft arrival rate at DCA at least until the control tower is fully staffed and the FAA has addressed safety risks at the airport.
  • Evaluate and amend agreements or standard operating procedures with the Department of Defense and other relevant government agencies concerning flight operations at DCA to ensure safety.
  • Start monthly briefings for relevant congressional committees detailing aviation safety incidents and other airspace risks in the DCA capital region.

Additionally, the letter urged the FAA to review congestion levels at and around DCA, review any outstanding National Transportation Safety Board recommendations and analyze the effectiveness of mental health resources provided to professionals, particularly after aviation accidents and other emergencies.

“While it may take time for the NTSB to determine the causes of the tragic January 29 midair collision over the Potomac, we can act now to ensure safer skies for the flying public,” the letter concluded.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff

AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.

Boeing Tries Culture Shift After Worker Survey Shows Morale Issues

Boeing is in the process of redefining its company values after an employee survey outlined low morale in its workforce.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Boeing 737 MAX 10
Boeing's 737 MAX 10 at Boeing Field (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Katie Zera)

Boeing is in the process of redefining its company values after an employee survey outlined low morale in its workforce.

A recent FlightGlobal report cited an internal message by Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, who said that “pride in Boeing has dropped significantly.” In response to Boeing’s survey findings, Ortberg reportedly held an all-employee meeting on April 17 to address the matter.

According to the report, the survey found that 67% of respondents felt proud to work at Boeing – a drop from 91% of respondents in a 2013 employee survey feeling prideful.

During Boeing’s Q1 2025 earnings call on Wednesday, Ortberg said the company has introduced new values and behaviors to the entire organization after reviewing the first survey of its kind since 2019.

“In the quarter, we had a series of employee meetings talking specifically about culture change. We formed an enterprise working group to help us refresh our values and behaviors,” he said on the call. “And we’ve recently completed an all employee survey, the first in five years, and got very constructive feedback on what’s needed to improve the future of our company.”

“Our people are passionate about the culture change, so I really want to seize the moment to make the necessary changes within the company,” he continued.

The survey comes after a challenging year for the American aircraft manufacturer. In 2024, Boeing underwent numerous controversies from unsafe production standards to corresponding lawsuits stemming from several incidents involving its best-selling 737 MAX aircraft.

Boeing’s 737 production has since been hindered by a monthly manufacturing cap governed by the Federal Aviation Administration. These delays were compounded by a 53-day machinist union strike at Boeing’s Pacific Northwest factories ending in November 2024.

Roughly a year after his death, the family of Boeing whistleblower John “Mitch” Barnett also sued Boeing in March 2025, blaming the company for his suicide.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff

AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.

Boeing Expands 777X Testing

Boeing says it has the Federal Aviation Administration’s blessing to expand flight testing activity on its yet-to-be-certified 777X.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Boeing 777X test jet
A Boeing 777X test aircraft (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Boeing says it has the Federal Aviation Administration’s blessing to expand flight testing activity on its 777X. The widebody jet is still set for delivery next year.

The 777X test fleet was grounded for approximately five months due to the discovery of cracks in engine mounting hardware. Test flights resumed in January.

During a Wednesday earnings call, Boeing leadership stated that an increase in flight tests is planned for this year. These tests include additional aerodynamics, brakes, and engine activities, CEO Kelly Ortberg shared.

“The aircraft are flying daily and performing well in flight testing,” he added.

Test bed 777X aircraft have recently been flying in a variety of environments, including Curaçao and Kona, Hawaii.

Boeing has four active 777X test aircraft, according to data from planespotters.net.

737 MAX 7 and 10

Certification for Boeing’s 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 models is also continuing, Ortberg said. Initial deliveries of these aircraft aren’t planned until at least 2026.

A Boeing 737 MAX 10 (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

“Along with the 777X, the [737-7 and -10] continue with their certification programs, and there is no change to our previously shared certification timeline on any of the commercial programs,” he continued.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

Contour Expands With Two Routes

Regional carrier Contour plans to bolster its service from Denver with two routes. These new services will begin this summer.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Contour Embraer jet
A Contour Embraer jet. (Photo: Denver International Airport)

Regional carrier Contour plans to bolster its service from Denver with two routes. These new services will begin this summer.

On June 26, the carrier will link Denver and Taos, New Mexico, with three-times-weekly service. According to Contour, this is the first-ever scheduled commercial nonstop service between Denver and Taos, and the first time the New Mexico city will be connected to a large U.S. hub airport.

In addition, Contour will fly between Denver and Page, Arizona, beginning on June 25. This service will be seasonal, operating twice per week through Aug. 30.

Page was last connected with Denver in 2018. Currently, Contour serves Page via Phoenix.

“We are excited to launch nonstop service to Taos, New Mexico and Page, Arizona from Denver International Airport,” said Contour President Ben Munson in a news release. “With these additions, Contour now serves four destinations from DEN – and provides connections globally via our partnerships with Alaska, American and United Airlines.”

Contour began serving Denver on April 1 with flights to both Moab and Vernal, Utah. The carrier operates a fleet of 30-seat Embraer aircraft.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
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