British Airways was facing its third day of disruption, and its busiest, following the weekend walk-out by members of the Unite union in a bitter row over cost-cutting and jobs.
The UK's reputation is being hit by the British Airways strike, business leaders warned today, as both sides in the dispute continued to argue fiercely over the impact of the industrial action.
The union claimed today that more than 140 BA aircraft were standing idle at Heathrow, the airport worst affected by the dispute.
An official also maintained that fewer than 300 crew had volunteered to stand in for strikers and accused the airline of counting inbound crew to inflate the numbers of staff on duty.
BA said 97.6% of its Gatwick crew and 52% of Heathrow crew reported to work as normal over the weekend.
A spokesman said: "We will continue to offer the fullest support to our cabin crew who want to work as normal."
BA said it reinstated a number of cancelled flights this weekend after maintaining that more crew than expected had turned up for work.
Business group London First, whose members include many of London's internationally-based businesses, said the capital's reputation as a centre for global trade was being damaged by the strike.
Chief executive Baroness Valentine said: "Despite the best efforts of BA management and many staff to continue to put the interests of passengers first, the strike is reminiscent of a best-forgotten era.
"The message from BA's London-based business customers to both sides is: Get back to the negotiating table, and to union members: Get back to work in the meantime."
Tony Woodley, joint leader of Unite, who called yesterday on BA chairman Martin Broughton and "sensible" directors to intervene in the dispute, will address strikers at a meeting near Heathrow today.
He said he was certain that the vast majority of Unite members had joined the strike, which will end at midnight tonight.
The union has called a four-day strike from next Saturday and has warned of further action from mid-April unless the deadlocked row is resolved.
BA had to axe a number of incoming flights to Heathrow today, including services from Toronto, Philadelphia, Houston, Cairo and Dubai. Short-haul incoming flights to the west London airport that were cancelled included Amsterdam, Zurich and Paris.
BA flights leaving Heathrow that were cancelled included services to Lisbon, Nice and Malaga.
Showing posts with label UK. Show all posts
Showing posts with label UK. Show all posts
Monday, March 22, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Ryanair going to cut Dublin flights
Chief Executive Michael O'Leary blamed government-regulated charges, rather than Ireland's recession, for a rapid fall over the past year in Irish traffic.
Ryanair, Ireland's major airline, announced Thursday it will slash its Dublin flights by 19 percent this summer and cut 150 jobs in protest at airport fees and an Irish government passenger tax.
O'Leary told a Dublin press conference his airline would boost Irish traffic this year if the airport and government would cut charges and taxes, but instead expected to carry 3 million fewer Irish passengers in 2010.
Europe's most profitable airline has railed for years against the Dublin Airport Authority and its slow development of a new terminal at the capital's overcrowded lone airport. Ryanair, the airport's major tenant, has insisted it needs only Spartan facilities and blames the project for a government-approved 40 percent rise in charges.
Ryanair said its flights in and out of Dublin would fall 19 percent to below 500 per week starting in April. The airline, headquartered in Dublin, estimated this cutback would mean 2,000 lost jobs in airline support services but declined to provide details.
On top of that, Ireland's cash-strapped government last year imposed a new euro10 ($14) fee per air passenger that O'Leary has branded a "tourist tax" designed to deter people from visiting Ireland.
The government and Dublin Airport Authority did not respond to O'Leary's latest criticisms.
Ryanair is increasingly redeploying its fleet of Boeing 787-400s away from higher-charge Ireland and Britain in favor of lower-charge regional airports in continental Europe. New Ryanair bases opening this year include Faro in Portugal, Malaga in Spain, and Bari and Brindisi in Italy.
But analysts agree that such moves chiefly represent Ryanair's efforts to put more aircraft into more attractive, developing markets in favor of the already crowded, highly competitive British-Irish arena, with lower fees a bonus.
Reflecting that opportunism, Ryanair announced Thursday that, despite its claim of high fees driving airline business out of Dublin, it would introduce 37 new flights per week this summer from Dublin to the most sought-after Mediterranean and Atlantic sun spots.
This move follows the collapse two months ago of Budget Travel, Ireland's largest package-holiday operator, which specialized in charter flights out of Ireland. Ryanair said it would more than double its Dublin flights to Barcelona, Spain, and open two new routes to the Canary Islands.
Ryanair said these new flights were included in the airline's claim of an overall cut of 19 percent of flights at Dublin in the April-September period.
Ryanair shares rose 1.5 percent to euro3.44 ($4.85) amid a flat market on the Irish Stock Exchange.
Ryanair, Ireland's major airline, announced Thursday it will slash its Dublin flights by 19 percent this summer and cut 150 jobs in protest at airport fees and an Irish government passenger tax.
O'Leary told a Dublin press conference his airline would boost Irish traffic this year if the airport and government would cut charges and taxes, but instead expected to carry 3 million fewer Irish passengers in 2010.
Europe's most profitable airline has railed for years against the Dublin Airport Authority and its slow development of a new terminal at the capital's overcrowded lone airport. Ryanair, the airport's major tenant, has insisted it needs only Spartan facilities and blames the project for a government-approved 40 percent rise in charges.
Ryanair said its flights in and out of Dublin would fall 19 percent to below 500 per week starting in April. The airline, headquartered in Dublin, estimated this cutback would mean 2,000 lost jobs in airline support services but declined to provide details.
On top of that, Ireland's cash-strapped government last year imposed a new euro10 ($14) fee per air passenger that O'Leary has branded a "tourist tax" designed to deter people from visiting Ireland.
The government and Dublin Airport Authority did not respond to O'Leary's latest criticisms.
Ryanair is increasingly redeploying its fleet of Boeing 787-400s away from higher-charge Ireland and Britain in favor of lower-charge regional airports in continental Europe. New Ryanair bases opening this year include Faro in Portugal, Malaga in Spain, and Bari and Brindisi in Italy.
But analysts agree that such moves chiefly represent Ryanair's efforts to put more aircraft into more attractive, developing markets in favor of the already crowded, highly competitive British-Irish arena, with lower fees a bonus.
Reflecting that opportunism, Ryanair announced Thursday that, despite its claim of high fees driving airline business out of Dublin, it would introduce 37 new flights per week this summer from Dublin to the most sought-after Mediterranean and Atlantic sun spots.
This move follows the collapse two months ago of Budget Travel, Ireland's largest package-holiday operator, which specialized in charter flights out of Ireland. Ryanair said it would more than double its Dublin flights to Barcelona, Spain, and open two new routes to the Canary Islands.
Ryanair said these new flights were included in the airline's claim of an overall cut of 19 percent of flights at Dublin in the April-September period.
Ryanair shares rose 1.5 percent to euro3.44 ($4.85) amid a flat market on the Irish Stock Exchange.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Air fares to Ireland will rise
The budget airline, renowned for its no-frills approach to flying, is hopeful about the year to come after cutting several loss-making routes and benefiting from a drop in fuel prices.
But the Irish airline has warned that its increasing financial stability will not prevent price hikes on flights to and from Ireland.
Ryanair has raised its profit forecast after reporting that the carrier performed better in the the third quarter of 2009 than predicted.
Blaming the Irish Government for imposing a 10 euro tourist tax on flights from Ireland, the airline has confirmed that after absorbing the cost in the past year, it will have to pass on the tax to customers.
Ryanair spokesperson Stephen McNamara told TravelMail: "Airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus have been absorbing the 10 euro tax on flights from Ireland but it is not sustainable so we will at some point have to pass it on to customers. We think increased prices will come in late this year or early 2011."
But in other areas, the airline has taken a bigger bite of the flights cherry compared to rivals British Airways, Air France and Lufthansa.
"We have already increased our market share significantly and will continue to do so as the customer becomes more price conscious," said Mr McNamara.
"We will make sure that we continue to be the lowest fare operator."
Ryanair's CEO, Michael O-Leary, reported that market conditions still remain difficult but said he expected further market share gains in Italy, Scandinavia, Spain, and the UK this year.
Despite the good financial news, the airline is still suffering from a bad reputation for its added costs and complicated website.
But the airline is dismissive of the claims, saying that the OFT representative made some glaring errors in his criticism and citing compliments about its website from other organisations.
Mr McNamara said: "The transparency of our website has been complimented by the EU. And I think if we are getting it right for the EU we don't need to worry about the OFT."
The Office of Fair Trading accused Ryanair of being "puerile and childish" over its online payment policy and criticised the company for the extras which are often added on to the basic flight price.
But the Irish airline has warned that its increasing financial stability will not prevent price hikes on flights to and from Ireland.
Ryanair has raised its profit forecast after reporting that the carrier performed better in the the third quarter of 2009 than predicted.
Blaming the Irish Government for imposing a 10 euro tourist tax on flights from Ireland, the airline has confirmed that after absorbing the cost in the past year, it will have to pass on the tax to customers.
Ryanair spokesperson Stephen McNamara told TravelMail: "Airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus have been absorbing the 10 euro tax on flights from Ireland but it is not sustainable so we will at some point have to pass it on to customers. We think increased prices will come in late this year or early 2011."
But in other areas, the airline has taken a bigger bite of the flights cherry compared to rivals British Airways, Air France and Lufthansa.
"We have already increased our market share significantly and will continue to do so as the customer becomes more price conscious," said Mr McNamara.
"We will make sure that we continue to be the lowest fare operator."
Ryanair's CEO, Michael O-Leary, reported that market conditions still remain difficult but said he expected further market share gains in Italy, Scandinavia, Spain, and the UK this year.
Despite the good financial news, the airline is still suffering from a bad reputation for its added costs and complicated website.
But the airline is dismissive of the claims, saying that the OFT representative made some glaring errors in his criticism and citing compliments about its website from other organisations.
Mr McNamara said: "The transparency of our website has been complimented by the EU. And I think if we are getting it right for the EU we don't need to worry about the OFT."
The Office of Fair Trading accused Ryanair of being "puerile and childish" over its online payment policy and criticised the company for the extras which are often added on to the basic flight price.
Newark to London flights
Continental Airlines will add a fourth daily flights service in March and a fifth in the fall to the United Kingdom's busiest airport.
"All our New York and London customers will benefit from more flight options," Jeff Smisek, chief executive officer, said in a statement in which he described New York and Heathrow as "a flagship route."
Continental Airlines is adding more flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to London's Heathrow Airport in March, and with new lie-flat seats in BusinessFirst class as it tries to bolster its competitive position on the well-traveled route.
As of March 27, Heathrow-bound flights will leave Newark at 9 a.m., 6:40 p.m., 7:20 p.m. and 8 p.m.
On Oct. 30, a 10:10 p.m. daily departure will be added.
Continental started flying between Newark and Heathrow in 2008 when U.S. airlines' were given more access to slots because of an open skies agreement between the United States and European Union.
Delta Air Lines, which is going head to head with Continental in the New York trans-Atlantic market, also began flying to Heathrow in 2008.
It flies there twice a day out of John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Asked if Delta plans to add more flights on that route, spokesman Paul Skrbec would say only: "We continue to look at what the market is doing."
Continental also announced that effective June 1, all of its aircraft scheduled for Heathrow flights will feature seats in BusinessFirst that recline to lie completely flat, like a bed. Lie-flat seats are fast becoming the standard for trans-Atlantic premium travel.
New York to Heathrow business class ticket prices vary greatly. Online searches, without corporate discounts, showed various airlines' fares, for midweek travel in mid-February, ranging from just under $2,000 to more than $5,000 round trip.
Delta announced last month that it is putting lie-flat beds in its BusinessElite cabins on 90 aircraft used on long international flights, part of a three-year, $1 billion plan to upgrade customer service and improve fuel efficiency.
"All our New York and London customers will benefit from more flight options," Jeff Smisek, chief executive officer, said in a statement in which he described New York and Heathrow as "a flagship route."
Continental Airlines is adding more flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to London's Heathrow Airport in March, and with new lie-flat seats in BusinessFirst class as it tries to bolster its competitive position on the well-traveled route.
As of March 27, Heathrow-bound flights will leave Newark at 9 a.m., 6:40 p.m., 7:20 p.m. and 8 p.m.
On Oct. 30, a 10:10 p.m. daily departure will be added.
Continental started flying between Newark and Heathrow in 2008 when U.S. airlines' were given more access to slots because of an open skies agreement between the United States and European Union.
Delta Air Lines, which is going head to head with Continental in the New York trans-Atlantic market, also began flying to Heathrow in 2008.
It flies there twice a day out of John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Asked if Delta plans to add more flights on that route, spokesman Paul Skrbec would say only: "We continue to look at what the market is doing."
Continental also announced that effective June 1, all of its aircraft scheduled for Heathrow flights will feature seats in BusinessFirst that recline to lie completely flat, like a bed. Lie-flat seats are fast becoming the standard for trans-Atlantic premium travel.
New York to Heathrow business class ticket prices vary greatly. Online searches, without corporate discounts, showed various airlines' fares, for midweek travel in mid-February, ranging from just under $2,000 to more than $5,000 round trip.
Delta announced last month that it is putting lie-flat beds in its BusinessElite cabins on 90 aircraft used on long international flights, part of a three-year, $1 billion plan to upgrade customer service and improve fuel efficiency.
Strong demand for World Cup flights
Ashley Cowan, BA regional manager for Africa, said fares over the World Cup month were at levels normally charged during the peak summer season.
He was replying to suggestions in some sections of the British press that many soccer fans would stay away from this country because of the high prices and air fares being charged.
BA has “very healthy bookings” on flights to South Africa during the World Cup 2010 period over June and July.
Cowan said that, in response to demand, BA would put on two extra flights to Johannesburg with its largest Boeing 747-400 aircraft on July 13 and 14, in time for the Cup Final.
They would be in addition to the and one flight to Cape Town daily and two a day to Johannesburg throughout our winter season.
He said bookings on flights out of South Africa were also high during the World Cup period.
In addition to local residents who normally visited the UK and Europe during the northern hemisphere summer, many were leaving South Africa to escape the crowds and hype of the World Cup or because they had let their houses to foreign visitors for the period.
BA is currently facing a renewed threat of a possible strike by cabin crew, depending on the results of a ballot among trade union members that closes on February 22.
A strike planned for the Christmas holiday period was declared illegal by the high court in London because former staff members who had accepted an offer of voluntary redundancy and had already left were among those voting for it.
Cowan said negotiations were continuing and it was “ disappointing we have got to this stage” after concessions had been made.
But even if the strike went ahead some services would continue because, it was not expected to have the support of all cabin crew.
There would also be volunteers from other departments of the airline – including some off-duty pilots – who were already being trained.
“We are hoping that, if the strike goes ahead, there will be a very minimal number of flights cancelled,” said Cowan.
The airline industry worldwide is beginning to recover from the effects of the recession and losses caused by the soaring oil price that preceded it.
BA was hit particularly hard by the fall in international passenger numbers because of its large share of trans Atlantic travel.
But Cowan said that although it had “not quite got to the point of recovery, we have seen the worst”.
Some markets, including those in Africa, were already recovering.
South Africa had always been a strong market for BA and passenger loads were good on both the Johannesburg and Cape Town routes at present.
He was replying to suggestions in some sections of the British press that many soccer fans would stay away from this country because of the high prices and air fares being charged.
BA has “very healthy bookings” on flights to South Africa during the World Cup 2010 period over June and July.
Cowan said that, in response to demand, BA would put on two extra flights to Johannesburg with its largest Boeing 747-400 aircraft on July 13 and 14, in time for the Cup Final.
They would be in addition to the and one flight to Cape Town daily and two a day to Johannesburg throughout our winter season.
He said bookings on flights out of South Africa were also high during the World Cup period.
In addition to local residents who normally visited the UK and Europe during the northern hemisphere summer, many were leaving South Africa to escape the crowds and hype of the World Cup or because they had let their houses to foreign visitors for the period.
BA is currently facing a renewed threat of a possible strike by cabin crew, depending on the results of a ballot among trade union members that closes on February 22.
A strike planned for the Christmas holiday period was declared illegal by the high court in London because former staff members who had accepted an offer of voluntary redundancy and had already left were among those voting for it.
Cowan said negotiations were continuing and it was “ disappointing we have got to this stage” after concessions had been made.
But even if the strike went ahead some services would continue because, it was not expected to have the support of all cabin crew.
There would also be volunteers from other departments of the airline – including some off-duty pilots – who were already being trained.
“We are hoping that, if the strike goes ahead, there will be a very minimal number of flights cancelled,” said Cowan.
The airline industry worldwide is beginning to recover from the effects of the recession and losses caused by the soaring oil price that preceded it.
BA was hit particularly hard by the fall in international passenger numbers because of its large share of trans Atlantic travel.
But Cowan said that although it had “not quite got to the point of recovery, we have seen the worst”.
Some markets, including those in Africa, were already recovering.
South Africa had always been a strong market for BA and passenger loads were good on both the Johannesburg and Cape Town routes at present.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Doncaster to New York flights
It follows an agreement with Irish national airline Aer Lingus which will also see daily flights from between Doncaster and Dublin.
BOSSES at Robin Hood Airport are predicting 40 per cent passenger growth next year after securing a deal to offer a Doncaster to New York flights.
The airline will operate what is known as a hub service from Doncaster to New York.
Passengers will change in Dublin, where they will go through US immigration so they can go straight from their plane into the city when the arrive in America. A service will also be available to Boston.
Bosses at the airport claim the combination of the deal with Aer Lingus and new flights due to arrive from easyjet will lead to a growth in passenger numbers next year of around 40 per cent, ending a period of falling numbers at Finningley.
Around 60,000 passengers had used the Doncaster to Dublin flights in the year before it was axed, making it the most popular route using
Finningley. It also brought inbound tourists, many using the racecourse.
The deal will see flights to Dublin available for the first time since Ryanair pulled its flights between the Irish capital and South Yorkshire in March 2009.
The flights are due to start on March 28.
Robin Hood Airport aviation sales director Nick Smillie said: "We had a Dublin service from Ryanair and we've working for several months to replace it with a regular service. This is with the Irish flag carrier.
"We have also been working hard to get a service that fed to a hub and provide onwards connections. You can buy the ticket in Doncaster, and then fly on to America on a single ticket.
"You will be able to buy a ticket from Doncaster to New York or Boston, and check you bags in all the way through. The other big benefit is that you can clear US immigration in Dublin."
The deal would potentially open up flights to other major long haul destinations on one ticket, but bosses at Robin Hood say some could involve long waits.
But the links to the New York and Boston could mean passengers could walk on to their plane in Doncaster and then on to the streets of New York within eight hours.
The new flights linking Doncaster to Dublin will be using small aircraft than before, known as ATR72s, carrying 72 people rather than the 160 seater jets Ryanair were operating.
The new services are part of a franchise agreement between Aer Lingus and Aer Arann and will be branded as Aer Lingus Regional.
Daniel Fell, Head of Chamber at Doncaster Chamber, said: "The announcement of new flights from Robin Hood Airport to Dublin is a great boost to the local economy, particularly those businesses operating in the tourism sector.
"Dublin is one of the top destinations for local business travellers and the new daily flights will be incredibly popular.
"Business confidence in Doncaster is currently significantly ahead of regional and national trends; Robin Hood Airport remains the most significant development in Doncaster and South Yorkshire for decades, its continued growth and status as a key economic asset for the borough will help Doncaster stay ahead of the curve for years to come.
Aer Lingus chief executive Christoph Mueller said: "This franchise agreement is good news for all stakeholders in Aer Lingus as it will allow us to serve key regional destinations, linking them with our Dublin transatlantic network as well as offering our business and leisure customers improved schedule and frequency options."
"It is now critical that the infrastructure necessary for the growth of the airport is delivered."
BOSSES at Robin Hood Airport are predicting 40 per cent passenger growth next year after securing a deal to offer a Doncaster to New York flights.
The airline will operate what is known as a hub service from Doncaster to New York.
Passengers will change in Dublin, where they will go through US immigration so they can go straight from their plane into the city when the arrive in America. A service will also be available to Boston.
Bosses at the airport claim the combination of the deal with Aer Lingus and new flights due to arrive from easyjet will lead to a growth in passenger numbers next year of around 40 per cent, ending a period of falling numbers at Finningley.
Around 60,000 passengers had used the Doncaster to Dublin flights in the year before it was axed, making it the most popular route using
Finningley. It also brought inbound tourists, many using the racecourse.
The deal will see flights to Dublin available for the first time since Ryanair pulled its flights between the Irish capital and South Yorkshire in March 2009.
The flights are due to start on March 28.
Robin Hood Airport aviation sales director Nick Smillie said: "We had a Dublin service from Ryanair and we've working for several months to replace it with a regular service. This is with the Irish flag carrier.
"We have also been working hard to get a service that fed to a hub and provide onwards connections. You can buy the ticket in Doncaster, and then fly on to America on a single ticket.
"You will be able to buy a ticket from Doncaster to New York or Boston, and check you bags in all the way through. The other big benefit is that you can clear US immigration in Dublin."
The deal would potentially open up flights to other major long haul destinations on one ticket, but bosses at Robin Hood say some could involve long waits.
But the links to the New York and Boston could mean passengers could walk on to their plane in Doncaster and then on to the streets of New York within eight hours.
The new flights linking Doncaster to Dublin will be using small aircraft than before, known as ATR72s, carrying 72 people rather than the 160 seater jets Ryanair were operating.
The new services are part of a franchise agreement between Aer Lingus and Aer Arann and will be branded as Aer Lingus Regional.
Daniel Fell, Head of Chamber at Doncaster Chamber, said: "The announcement of new flights from Robin Hood Airport to Dublin is a great boost to the local economy, particularly those businesses operating in the tourism sector.
"Dublin is one of the top destinations for local business travellers and the new daily flights will be incredibly popular.
"Business confidence in Doncaster is currently significantly ahead of regional and national trends; Robin Hood Airport remains the most significant development in Doncaster and South Yorkshire for decades, its continued growth and status as a key economic asset for the borough will help Doncaster stay ahead of the curve for years to come.
Aer Lingus chief executive Christoph Mueller said: "This franchise agreement is good news for all stakeholders in Aer Lingus as it will allow us to serve key regional destinations, linking them with our Dublin transatlantic network as well as offering our business and leisure customers improved schedule and frequency options."
"It is now critical that the infrastructure necessary for the growth of the airport is delivered."
Cheap flights to Malaga
It's no surprise that Marbella and Nerja feature so highly say the whole coast from Torremolinos down through Benalmadena, Fuengirola, and down to Marbella and the rich playground of Puerto Banus is a favourite with British holiday makers who access the Costa Del Sol on cheap flights to Malaga.
According to reports in the online news the beaches of Marbella and Nerja on Spains Costa Del Sol have earned themselves a place amongst the best twenty beaches in Europe, the study on a Spanish website was voted for by travellers who book their cheap flights and holidays on the internet. Palma de Mallorca is considered to have the best beach in Spain which includes the Balearic Islands, followed closely by Marbella and Nerja. There are sixteen Spanish destinations on the list in all.
The study also included Belek in Turkey, fly on cheap flights to Dalaman, Binz in Germany, Sorrento in Italy, fly on cheap flights to Naples and cheap flights to Funchal for Madeira , Dubrovnik in Croatia also featured.
Cheap flights to Malaga are available from Gatwick, Luton, Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, East midlands, Liverpool, London Stanstead and Glasgow.
You can find online specialising in cheap flights to Europe. Cheap flights to Paphos and Larnaca in Cyprus. Kos, Corfu, Samos, Rhodes, Prevesa, Kefalonia, Zante in Greece. Heraklion and Chania in Crete, Malaga, Alicante, Reus,in Spain, Gibralter, Dalaman, Izmir and Bodrum in Turkey. Faro on the Algarve and the Canary islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura are also very popular cheap flight destinations holiday makers and sportman alike. Cheap flights and All Inclusive hotels in Egypts Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh, Masa alam, and Hurghada which are very popular for scuba diviers are also sold by airflights.
According to reports in the online news the beaches of Marbella and Nerja on Spains Costa Del Sol have earned themselves a place amongst the best twenty beaches in Europe, the study on a Spanish website was voted for by travellers who book their cheap flights and holidays on the internet. Palma de Mallorca is considered to have the best beach in Spain which includes the Balearic Islands, followed closely by Marbella and Nerja. There are sixteen Spanish destinations on the list in all.
The study also included Belek in Turkey, fly on cheap flights to Dalaman, Binz in Germany, Sorrento in Italy, fly on cheap flights to Naples and cheap flights to Funchal for Madeira , Dubrovnik in Croatia also featured.
Cheap flights to Malaga are available from Gatwick, Luton, Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, East midlands, Liverpool, London Stanstead and Glasgow.
You can find online specialising in cheap flights to Europe. Cheap flights to Paphos and Larnaca in Cyprus. Kos, Corfu, Samos, Rhodes, Prevesa, Kefalonia, Zante in Greece. Heraklion and Chania in Crete, Malaga, Alicante, Reus,in Spain, Gibralter, Dalaman, Izmir and Bodrum in Turkey. Faro on the Algarve and the Canary islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura are also very popular cheap flight destinations holiday makers and sportman alike. Cheap flights and All Inclusive hotels in Egypts Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh, Masa alam, and Hurghada which are very popular for scuba diviers are also sold by airflights.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
flights postponed from Glasgow
British Airways cancelled all domestic flights at Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen until 2 pm due to the knock-on effect of snow at other airports.
BA and Easyjet have postponed their flights from Glasgow and several other airports after several days of snow and ice bought Britain to a standstill.
A spokesman for Easyjet explained that the airports are amongst several closed due to the “knock-on effect” of the extreme weather recently.
The airline has grounded all flights from Luton since 11:30am this morning and some have been cancelled from Glasgow.
Flights are expected to resume from Glasgow at 12 pm.
Low fog was causing visibility issues on the runway in Aberdeen and the bad weather elsewhere has added to delays and cancellations.
A spokesman for Aberdeen Airport also urged passengers to contact their airline before arriving at the Dyce terminal.
Passengers have been advised to contact their airlines or check their websites for further information. Easyjet has also set up a Twitter feed to give the latest news.
The groundings come after many other days of airport closures across Europe, which have included Bristol, Inverness, Gatwick and Luton.
The Highlands and Aberdeenshire were worst hit as blizzards continued overnight and in the morning.
Freezing fog and icy conditions continued to take their toll on commuters today.
Police forces across Scotland have advised drivers to take care in the wintry conditions and, where the weather is worst, not to leave home.
Snow on the A90 at Marykirk between Aberdeen and Dundee lead to long delays as several lorries had become stuck overnight.
BA and Easyjet have postponed their flights from Glasgow and several other airports after several days of snow and ice bought Britain to a standstill.
A spokesman for Easyjet explained that the airports are amongst several closed due to the “knock-on effect” of the extreme weather recently.
The airline has grounded all flights from Luton since 11:30am this morning and some have been cancelled from Glasgow.
Flights are expected to resume from Glasgow at 12 pm.
Low fog was causing visibility issues on the runway in Aberdeen and the bad weather elsewhere has added to delays and cancellations.
A spokesman for Aberdeen Airport also urged passengers to contact their airline before arriving at the Dyce terminal.
Passengers have been advised to contact their airlines or check their websites for further information. Easyjet has also set up a Twitter feed to give the latest news.
The groundings come after many other days of airport closures across Europe, which have included Bristol, Inverness, Gatwick and Luton.
The Highlands and Aberdeenshire were worst hit as blizzards continued overnight and in the morning.
Freezing fog and icy conditions continued to take their toll on commuters today.
Police forces across Scotland have advised drivers to take care in the wintry conditions and, where the weather is worst, not to leave home.
Snow on the A90 at Marykirk between Aberdeen and Dundee lead to long delays as several lorries had become stuck overnight.
Friday, September 25, 2009
daily flights to New Delhi
Finnair will begin daily flights to New Delhi in India from Helsinki today.
The airline offers a flight time of only six hours and 30 minutes on the route owing to Helsinki's geographical location in northern Europe.
Petteri Kostermaa, the airline's vice-president of network strategy and planning, said: 'Our route is the shortest between the EU and India, so it has found wide interest amongst travellers.'
Flights to Delhi from Helsinki have been a popular travel option since they were launched in October 2006, Finnair revealed.
Finnair provides the only direct flights to Delhi from northern Europe, enabling connections for people travelling from the Baltic region and major cities such as London and Paris.
Delhi flights as one of India's main flight hubs, offering travel links to several destinations across the country.
Finnair recently announced that a new shopping area and restaurant had been opened at Helsinki Vantaa, representing the second phase in the redevelopment of the airport's terminal.
The airline offers a flight time of only six hours and 30 minutes on the route owing to Helsinki's geographical location in northern Europe.
Petteri Kostermaa, the airline's vice-president of network strategy and planning, said: 'Our route is the shortest between the EU and India, so it has found wide interest amongst travellers.'
Flights to Delhi from Helsinki have been a popular travel option since they were launched in October 2006, Finnair revealed.
Finnair provides the only direct flights to Delhi from northern Europe, enabling connections for people travelling from the Baltic region and major cities such as London and Paris.
Delhi flights as one of India's main flight hubs, offering travel links to several destinations across the country.
Finnair recently announced that a new shopping area and restaurant had been opened at Helsinki Vantaa, representing the second phase in the redevelopment of the airport's terminal.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
additional flights to Jersey
Flybe going to launch an additional flight to Jersey from London Gatwick during the forthcoming winter season.
The regional carrier will offer a seventh weekday service from 25 October, meaning travellers will be able to choose from a wider range of flights operating from Monday to Friday.
Business customers are expected to be well served by the new connection, which will provide a morning arrival in Jersey 75 minutes earlier than the services that are currently available.
Mike Rutter, Flybe's chief commercial officer, said: 'The addition of this seventh weekday flight shows our continued commitment to serving Jersey and to listening and actioning what our passengers actually want.
'We remain committed to serving the island community by providing the most frequent, affordable and convenient service on this route.'
The airline also offers flights to Dusseldorf, Bergerac, Belfast and other destinations across the UK from its base at London Gatwick.
The regional carrier will offer a seventh weekday service from 25 October, meaning travellers will be able to choose from a wider range of flights operating from Monday to Friday.
Business customers are expected to be well served by the new connection, which will provide a morning arrival in Jersey 75 minutes earlier than the services that are currently available.
Mike Rutter, Flybe's chief commercial officer, said: 'The addition of this seventh weekday flight shows our continued commitment to serving Jersey and to listening and actioning what our passengers actually want.
'We remain committed to serving the island community by providing the most frequent, affordable and convenient service on this route.'
The airline also offers flights to Dusseldorf, Bergerac, Belfast and other destinations across the UK from its base at London Gatwick.
Edinburgh flights
Flybe has reported that demand for flights to Edinburgh is 'stronger than ever this year' as the city hosts its annual celebration of culture.
Almost 95,000 passengers are set to fly to and from the Scottish capital with the regional carrier during the month of August, an increase of 8% on last year.
With 17 direct flights to Edinburgh, Flybe claims to offer three times more services to the destination than any other airline.
This summer, the operator will provide up to 226 flights a day in and around Scotland, some of which will be operated by Loganair, its franchise partner.
Mike Rutter, Flybe's chief commercial officer, said: 'Our seasonal passenger numbers clearly indicate that people are determined to enjoy a UK summer … by seeking out the most convenient and affordable way to travel, especially to the really big annual events such as the Edinburgh Festival.'
The festival will begin tomorrow (14 August) and present various opera, theatre, music and visual arts events in the city up to 6 September.
Almost 95,000 passengers are set to fly to and from the Scottish capital with the regional carrier during the month of August, an increase of 8% on last year.
With 17 direct flights to Edinburgh, Flybe claims to offer three times more services to the destination than any other airline.
This summer, the operator will provide up to 226 flights a day in and around Scotland, some of which will be operated by Loganair, its franchise partner.
Mike Rutter, Flybe's chief commercial officer, said: 'Our seasonal passenger numbers clearly indicate that people are determined to enjoy a UK summer … by seeking out the most convenient and affordable way to travel, especially to the really big annual events such as the Edinburgh Festival.'
The festival will begin tomorrow (14 August) and present various opera, theatre, music and visual arts events in the city up to 6 September.
London-New York business-class return flights
UK. Scorpio Distributors MD Stuart McGuire is auctioning two business-class London-New York return flights with British Airways to raise money for cleft charity The Smile Train (www.smiltrain.org).
He said: “They are excellent Club World tickets that I won’t be using. Someone can pick up a bargain and help a great cause.”
The flights must be taken by the end of September.
McGuire won the tickets in a charity auction in 2008 at the Airline Retail Conference.
Offers (in Pound Sterling) should be e-mailed c/o Stuart’s PA Kerrie Hethersay at khethersay@scorpdis.com
Bids close at the end of August.
It costs just US$250 (£150) to fund one life-transforming cleft operation through The Smile Train.
He said: “They are excellent Club World tickets that I won’t be using. Someone can pick up a bargain and help a great cause.”
The flights must be taken by the end of September.
McGuire won the tickets in a charity auction in 2008 at the Airline Retail Conference.
Offers (in Pound Sterling) should be e-mailed c/o Stuart’s PA Kerrie Hethersay at khethersay@scorpdis.com
Bids close at the end of August.
It costs just US$250 (£150) to fund one life-transforming cleft operation through The Smile Train.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
cheap flights for summer
Flights are now available to book from Leeds Bradford to Ibiza, the party capital of the Europe. Thousands of travellers visit this vibrant island each year looking for a break in the sun, coupled with memorable nights out at some of the best clubs Europe has to offer. Get in early to get the best prices for your summer 2010 holiday and book your cheap flights to Ibiza from as little as £19.99.
Cheap flights to Spain, Canaries & Portugal for summer 2010, If Manchester is your preferred departure airport, you can now book cheap flights to some of Spain’s hottest holiday destinations for your 2010 summer holiday. Flights are now available to Malaga, Alicante and Murcia in Spain from as low as £19.99, as well as Lanzarote and Tenerife in the Canary Islands from £39.99 and Faro in Portugal from £29.99. Choose from these great travel destinations for a truly fantastic holiday in the beautiful and tranquil setting of the sunny Mediterranean.
Take advantage of the low prices by booking your cheap flights early to these fantastic summer 2010 holiday destinations. Find more information about the latest summer 2010 flight destinations.
If you are looking for a cheap package holiday to Spain, Canaries or Portugal for your 2010 summer holiday...
Cheap flights to Spain, Canaries & Portugal for summer 2010, If Manchester is your preferred departure airport, you can now book cheap flights to some of Spain’s hottest holiday destinations for your 2010 summer holiday. Flights are now available to Malaga, Alicante and Murcia in Spain from as low as £19.99, as well as Lanzarote and Tenerife in the Canary Islands from £39.99 and Faro in Portugal from £29.99. Choose from these great travel destinations for a truly fantastic holiday in the beautiful and tranquil setting of the sunny Mediterranean.
Take advantage of the low prices by booking your cheap flights early to these fantastic summer 2010 holiday destinations. Find more information about the latest summer 2010 flight destinations.
If you are looking for a cheap package holiday to Spain, Canaries or Portugal for your 2010 summer holiday...
sun flights for Scots
Ryanair is set to target the Scottish tourist market with a string of new direct flights between Prestwick and Spain to take advantage of Spanish tax concessions.
Spain is offering a 100% discount on airport charges this winter, and Ryanair said the continuation of the new routes was dependent on the extension of the discount.
The Irish carrier also confirmed yesterday that it was cutting back on other "marginal" routes in order to concentrate on destinations more popular with holidaymakers in the west of Scotland, changes predicted by The Herald earlier this month From October, the no-frills airline will launch several flights a week between Prestwick airport and Alicante, Palma, Lanzarote and Las Palmas. It will begin running three flights a week to Ibiza from March next year, and there will also be more frequent flights to the sun-seeker hubs of Malaga, Tenerife and Faro, in Portugal.
Ken O'Toole, Ryanair's director of new route development, said: "We wanted to aggressively target sun destinations for the west of Scotland market. We only have a limited capacity to do that, so something had to give. But we are going to offer the cheapest fares in Scotland to those destinations."
The increase will be offset by reduced flights to Belfast, while the twice-daily transit flights to Paris Beauvais will be halved. Flights to Bournemouth, Frankfurt Hahn and Stockholm Stavska are being cut altogether.
While conceding that the shift in destinations would put Ryanair in direct competition with flights from BAA-run Glasgow Airport, he said the company anticipated a net gain in passengers using Prestwick.
"Capacity will be the same, but that capacity will be targeted to routes with a higher load factor," he said. "We expect 95% for the new routes, compared to the 60% we were seeing on some of the city and business routes."
Mr O'Toole refused to confirm or deny recent speculation that the airline planned to cut costs by scrapping check-in staff and instead asking passengers carry their own luggage onboard instead.
"Whether that comes to pass or not remains to be seen. We will look at any structure or price change which will reduce our costs."
Questioned about whether its other Scottish bases in Edinburgh and Aberdeen would see any routes axed, Mr O'Toole said it was "too early" to comment.
Graeme Sweenie, chief commercial officer for Prestwick, said: "Launching five new routes is fantastic news for the airport and passengers alike."
He added that the new services were "particularly pleasing at a time when the aviation industry generally is having a tough time".
Spain is offering a 100% discount on airport charges this winter, and Ryanair said the continuation of the new routes was dependent on the extension of the discount.
The Irish carrier also confirmed yesterday that it was cutting back on other "marginal" routes in order to concentrate on destinations more popular with holidaymakers in the west of Scotland, changes predicted by The Herald earlier this month From October, the no-frills airline will launch several flights a week between Prestwick airport and Alicante, Palma, Lanzarote and Las Palmas. It will begin running three flights a week to Ibiza from March next year, and there will also be more frequent flights to the sun-seeker hubs of Malaga, Tenerife and Faro, in Portugal.
Ken O'Toole, Ryanair's director of new route development, said: "We wanted to aggressively target sun destinations for the west of Scotland market. We only have a limited capacity to do that, so something had to give. But we are going to offer the cheapest fares in Scotland to those destinations."
The increase will be offset by reduced flights to Belfast, while the twice-daily transit flights to Paris Beauvais will be halved. Flights to Bournemouth, Frankfurt Hahn and Stockholm Stavska are being cut altogether.
While conceding that the shift in destinations would put Ryanair in direct competition with flights from BAA-run Glasgow Airport, he said the company anticipated a net gain in passengers using Prestwick.
"Capacity will be the same, but that capacity will be targeted to routes with a higher load factor," he said. "We expect 95% for the new routes, compared to the 60% we were seeing on some of the city and business routes."
Mr O'Toole refused to confirm or deny recent speculation that the airline planned to cut costs by scrapping check-in staff and instead asking passengers carry their own luggage onboard instead.
"Whether that comes to pass or not remains to be seen. We will look at any structure or price change which will reduce our costs."
Questioned about whether its other Scottish bases in Edinburgh and Aberdeen would see any routes axed, Mr O'Toole said it was "too early" to comment.
Graeme Sweenie, chief commercial officer for Prestwick, said: "Launching five new routes is fantastic news for the airport and passengers alike."
He added that the new services were "particularly pleasing at a time when the aviation industry generally is having a tough time".
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
New cheap flights to Egypt
The UK's flagship carrier, British Airways, has announced that it will launch new thrice weekly direct flights from UK to Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt from October 25.
The existing Gatwick-Sharm El Sheikh flights aimes to make it easier for customers to choose their holiday to the Egyptian touristic resort.
The new flights will mark a return for the airline's trademark flag in the Red Sea resort. BA had previously offered services to the Red Sea resort via its former franchise operator GB Airways.
The plan to launch these new service is consistent with the airline strategy of servicing routes which are expected to yield high demand especially that Sharm El Sheikh is a perfect holiday destination.
Sharm El-Sheikh which attracts domestic and international tourism, is a city situated on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It has become a leading tourist resort thanks to its dramatic landscape, year-round dry and temperate climate, and long stretches of natural beaches. Moreover, conference tourism in Egypt has steadily increased over the past six years where the total events held in Sharm El-Sheikh International Conference Center has increased.
The flights will be operated by a triple-cabin Boeing 777 aircraft with a three-class configuration - World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World.
British Airways would be launching new flights to a number of long-haul destinations this winter, including Montego Bay in Jamaica and Las Vegas. It will also start a new thrice-weekly direct services from Gatwick to Male in the Maldives.
BA, is the largest airline in the United Kingdom based on fleet size, international flights and international destinations. Its main hubs are London Heathrow and London Gatwick.
The existing Gatwick-Sharm El Sheikh flights aimes to make it easier for customers to choose their holiday to the Egyptian touristic resort.
The new flights will mark a return for the airline's trademark flag in the Red Sea resort. BA had previously offered services to the Red Sea resort via its former franchise operator GB Airways.
The plan to launch these new service is consistent with the airline strategy of servicing routes which are expected to yield high demand especially that Sharm El Sheikh is a perfect holiday destination.
Sharm El-Sheikh which attracts domestic and international tourism, is a city situated on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It has become a leading tourist resort thanks to its dramatic landscape, year-round dry and temperate climate, and long stretches of natural beaches. Moreover, conference tourism in Egypt has steadily increased over the past six years where the total events held in Sharm El-Sheikh International Conference Center has increased.
The flights will be operated by a triple-cabin Boeing 777 aircraft with a three-class configuration - World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World.
British Airways would be launching new flights to a number of long-haul destinations this winter, including Montego Bay in Jamaica and Las Vegas. It will also start a new thrice-weekly direct services from Gatwick to Male in the Maldives.
BA, is the largest airline in the United Kingdom based on fleet size, international flights and international destinations. Its main hubs are London Heathrow and London Gatwick.
New flights to Kosovo
Air Berlin will start regular flights to Kosovo capital Prishtina starting in November 2009.
Semi low-cost carrier will start flying up to twice weekly flights from Zürich to Prishtina on 25 October and from German cities of Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hannover and Munich with nonstop flights on 4 November. Air Berlin will also be operating a Saturday flight from Geneva to Prishtina.
The airline says these are regular all year flights and tickets can be booked on their website or with their local parter Kosova Airlines starting at 119 Euro, which includes taxes, charges and miles.
Semi low-cost carrier will start flying up to twice weekly flights from Zürich to Prishtina on 25 October and from German cities of Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hannover and Munich with nonstop flights on 4 November. Air Berlin will also be operating a Saturday flight from Geneva to Prishtina.
The airline says these are regular all year flights and tickets can be booked on their website or with their local parter Kosova Airlines starting at 119 Euro, which includes taxes, charges and miles.
new flights from Birmingham to Greece and Saudi Arabia
New flights linking Birmingham with Greece and the Middle East have been launched in a bid to boost both tourism and business connections.
Going forward, Hellenic Imperial Airways will operate one flight from Birmingham Airport to Athens.
From the historic Greek capital, onward flights to Jeddah Saudi Arabia have also been introduced, with business leaders and tourism chiefs welcoming this new direct link between the Midlands and the Middle East.
Announcing the development, Talal Abureya, chairman of Hellenic Imperial Airways, said: "Birmingham is our first UK airport and we are very excited about launching services in the Midlands.
"Athens, which is our headquarters, is not currently served from Birmingham so we expect that our flights will be welcomed by those travelling for business and leisure, in particular those visiting friends and relative."
Alongside this latest service, regular flights to Dubai from Birmingham are currently offered by Emirates, while Mahan Air flies to the Iranian capital of Tehran.
Going forward, Hellenic Imperial Airways will operate one flight from Birmingham Airport to Athens.
From the historic Greek capital, onward flights to Jeddah Saudi Arabia have also been introduced, with business leaders and tourism chiefs welcoming this new direct link between the Midlands and the Middle East.
Announcing the development, Talal Abureya, chairman of Hellenic Imperial Airways, said: "Birmingham is our first UK airport and we are very excited about launching services in the Midlands.
"Athens, which is our headquarters, is not currently served from Birmingham so we expect that our flights will be welcomed by those travelling for business and leisure, in particular those visiting friends and relative."
Alongside this latest service, regular flights to Dubai from Birmingham are currently offered by Emirates, while Mahan Air flies to the Iranian capital of Tehran.
Free flights for entrepreneurs
BA is offering more than 1,000 free business trips in an effort to underline the importance of personal contacts through business trips. Flights are available to London or anywhere that British Airways flies.
At the website, entrants will be directed to an entry form that includes a competition to write a 500-word explanation of why their business should get an overseas trip. Entries will be reviewed by British Airways executives and its partners including representatives from the UK Trade & Investment. Entries will be accepted until 12 midnight Eastern Daylight Time or 9 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on July 31. Winners will be notified by mid-August.
Business travelers can go to www.ba.com/facetoface to enter a competition to win a free flight from Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.
British Airways said it had commissioned a survey of 2,200 Harvard Business Review readers to "gauge perceptions within the international business community about the importance of face-to-face meetings."
The results: About 95 percent said they believe that face-to-face meetings are a cornerstone of building successful long-term business relationships, and 87 percent agreed face-to-face meetings are the linchpin for "sealing the deal." Half said their business had been hurt because of business travel cutbacks.
At the website, entrants will be directed to an entry form that includes a competition to write a 500-word explanation of why their business should get an overseas trip. Entries will be reviewed by British Airways executives and its partners including representatives from the UK Trade & Investment. Entries will be accepted until 12 midnight Eastern Daylight Time or 9 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on July 31. Winners will be notified by mid-August.
Business travelers can go to www.ba.com/facetoface to enter a competition to win a free flight from Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.
British Airways said it had commissioned a survey of 2,200 Harvard Business Review readers to "gauge perceptions within the international business community about the importance of face-to-face meetings."
The results: About 95 percent said they believe that face-to-face meetings are a cornerstone of building successful long-term business relationships, and 87 percent agreed face-to-face meetings are the linchpin for "sealing the deal." Half said their business had been hurt because of business travel cutbacks.
New flights to Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote
Ryanair is going to start new winter-sun flights to the Canary Islands from airports including Bournemouth...
There will be new flights to Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote and from Bournemouth, Birmingham airport and Bristol.
Other new services include Gran Canaria and Lanzarote flights from Luton, Liverpool and East Midlands.
Ryanair is starting new winter-sun flights to the Canary Islands from airports including Luton airport, which it said would create 2,000 new jobs.
There will be new flights to Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote and from Bournemouth, Birmingham airport and Bristol.
Other new services include Gran Canaria and Lanzarote flights from Luton, Liverpool and East Midlands.
Ryanair is starting new winter-sun flights to the Canary Islands from airports including Luton airport, which it said would create 2,000 new jobs.
No more meals on Short-Haul Flights
In an effort to raise £22m in a year, British Airways is removing its in-flight meals, except breakfast, for short-haul flights.
BA flights that depart after 10am and last less than two-and-half hours will only be served drinks and snacks. Examples of these flights including London flights to Paris, flights to Amsterdam and flights to Rome. In addition, passengers are these British Airways flights will not have the option to buy food, according to the BBC.
Currently passengers on short-haul British Airways flights typically get a sandwich. This will be replaced by a bag of nuts or other snack.
BA flights that depart after 10am and last less than two-and-half hours will only be served drinks and snacks. Examples of these flights including London flights to Paris, flights to Amsterdam and flights to Rome. In addition, passengers are these British Airways flights will not have the option to buy food, according to the BBC.
Currently passengers on short-haul British Airways flights typically get a sandwich. This will be replaced by a bag of nuts or other snack.
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