The Airways Podcast

A biweekly review of commercial flight
The Airways Podcast

The Airways Podcast, hosted by Airways Digital Editor Helwing Villamizar and aviation analysts Rohan Anand and Vinay Bhaskara, is a bimonthly show that covers the latest news and updates from the commercial aviation industry. In each episode, we have discussions with guests and conduct a featured interview with a notable figure in the industry to gain insights into their plans, goals, and challenges. We also explore topics such as industry trends and recent developments, and analyze their impact on the commercial aviation sector. airwaysmagazine.substack.com

  1. Alaska-Hawaiian Merger, Delta’s Shakeup, and Ethiopian's Mega Hub

    SEP 9

    Alaska-Hawaiian Merger, Delta’s Shakeup, and Ethiopian's Mega Hub

    In season 6, episode 2 of the Airways Podcast, before we get to the main topics, we share our experiences flying on United’s CRJ550 and the new Airbus A321neo. We also discuss Delta’s A321neo, which is stylish but lacks practicality in seating and storage space. Finally, we give mixed reviews on Delta’s overall performance due to delays and operational inefficiencies, particularly at Boston Logan, and praise United’s domestic performance for consistency and comfort. Main Topics Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Merger * Despite recent aggressive antitrust policies, DOJ clears the merger after a 90-day review period. * Discussion on potential future regulatory steps, including slot and gate concessions. * Speculation on operational impacts, including how Alaska might handle Hawaiian’s routes and the financial challenges involved. Delta Airlines COO Departure * COO’s exit following Delta’s tech outage raises questions about whether it was a direct result of the incident. * Delta’s operational reliability has slipped post-pandemic, contributing to dissatisfaction. Ethiopian Airlines' New Mega Airport * The announcement of a new airport in Bishoftu, which will open in 2029, is designed to improve capacity and mitigate the operational challenges of Addis Ababa’s high elevation. * The significance of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth and prospects as Africa’s leading airline. Other Insights Reflections on the current state of Southwest Airlines and its inter-island flights in Hawaii. Strategic considerations in the airline industry: balancing growth, mergers, and maintaining operational reliability. Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay Bhaskara Produced by Helwing Villamizar Music by Alisia from Pixabay Episode Links Alaska-Hawaiian Merger Clears DOJ Review Period Delta Air Lines COO to Depart Following Tech Outage Ethiopian Airlines, Dar to Build Mega Airport City This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

    59 min
  2. JUL 10

    ITA-Lufthansa, Boeing-Spirit Tie-Ups, Plus Cebu's A321neo Order

    In this season finale, we dive into the latest developments in the aviation industry: 1. EU Approves ITA-Lufthansa Tie-Up: The European Union has approved Lufthansa's takeover of ITA Airways, marking a significant step in consolidating the European aviation market. 2. Boeing Acquires Spirit AeroSystems: Boeing announced its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, a strategic move to bolster its supply chain and enhance its manufacturing capabilities. 3. Cebu Pacific Orders 152 A321neos: Cebu Pacific has ordered 152 Airbus A321neo aircraft, the largest order in the Philippines' history. This significant move underscores the carrier’s commitment to modernizing its fleet and expanding its route network. 4. Delta's New JFK DeltaOne Lounge: Delta Air Lines has unveiled its luxurious new DeltaOne lounge at JFK Airport, offering premium amenities and services to enhance the travel experience for its top-tier customers. Tune in to hear expert analysis and insights on these key industry shifts, and stay tuned for season six of the Airways Podcast. Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay Bhaskara Produced by: Helwing Villamizar Music: Fesliyan Studios Episode Links EU Approves Lufthansa Group-ITA Airways Deal ITA Airways will become the fifth network airline deeply integrated within the Lufthansa Group. Boeing Agrees to Acquire Spirit AeroSystems The Boeing board has agreed to buy Spirit AeroSystems for US$37.25 per share. Cebu Pacific, Airbus Sign MOU for 152 A321neo Jets Cebu Pacific has signed a historic agreement with Airbus for up to 152 Airbus A321neo aircraft. The majesty of an Airbus A380 against a backdrop of cloud-laden skies dominates the scene. This and more will be in the August 2024 issue! This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

    45 min
  3. Generative AI in the Airline Industry with Thor Olof Philogène

    MAY 7

    Generative AI in the Airline Industry with Thor Olof Philogène

    Since Generative AI hit the mainstream in early 2023, the airline industry has been researching how to implement the tool into their business models. In fact, according to a recent study, at the end of 2023, nearly 100% of airlines were creating programs to implement generative AI into their operations.Thor Olof Philogène knows this well. As CEO and co-founder of leading insights platform Stravito, Philogène has steered the implementation of generative AI capabilities into the platform to deliver precisely tailored support through a “supercharged search experience” and quicker access to consumer insights and market research for global brands, including one of the world’s largest airlines, Delta Air Lines.Many airlines' heavy reliance on consumer insights, data, and large-scale knowledge management makes them vulnerable to swaying consumer trends. In this episode, Thor argues that all companies would benefit from a generative AI solution tailored to their needs. Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay Bhaskara Produced by Helwing Villamizar Music: Fesliyan Studios Episode Links How Artificial Intelligence Is Enhancing Air Traffic Control New Website: Latest News Page June 2024 Issue of Airways 10% off available at shop.airwaysmag.com This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

    41 min
  4. A Deep Dive into India Aviation with Devesh R. Agarwal

    MAR 15

    A Deep Dive into India Aviation with Devesh R. Agarwal

    In episode seven, season five of The Airways Podcast, join host Vinay Bhaskara and special guest, Indian aviation expert and former President of the Bangalore Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Devesh R. Agarwal, as they delve deep into India Aviation. India's aviation industry is experiencing significant growth. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the country will become the world's third-largest air passenger market by 2030, after China and the United States. This rapid growth in air traffic is supported by various factors, including a rising middle class, increasing government spending, and the expansion and modernization of airports. India's population is expected to increase from 1.3 billion to 1.5 billion by 2030. Currently, aviation penetration in India is only around 4-5% of the population, indicating significant potential for further growth. Consequently, the Indian government is actively investing in the aviation sector by building new airports, expanding existing ones, and improving air traffic management systems. Additionally, World Trade Center Bengaluru recently hosted the World Trade Centers Association’s annual Global Business Forum to expand trade and investment opportunities for businesses worldwide in India’s aviation sector. Over the next five years, around 80 new airports will be opened in India. These initiatives, India’s low-cost carriers, and the country's positive economic factors are just some of the topics you’ll hear in this informative and engaging conversation. Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay Bhaskara Produced by Helwing Villamizar Music by Fesliyan Studios Episode Links * Video: The Future of Air India—Back to Excellency * Analyzing the 10 Largest Aviation Markets * Indigo Orders 500 Airbus Planes, Becomes Larges Indian Airline * Airways Magazine March 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 17m
4.8
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

The Airways Podcast, hosted by Airways Digital Editor Helwing Villamizar and aviation analysts Rohan Anand and Vinay Bhaskara, is a bimonthly show that covers the latest news and updates from the commercial aviation industry. In each episode, we have discussions with guests and conduct a featured interview with a notable figure in the industry to gain insights into their plans, goals, and challenges. We also explore topics such as industry trends and recent developments, and analyze their impact on the commercial aviation sector. airwaysmagazine.substack.com

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