American Airlines has given its pilots the thumbs up for using Apple iPads during take-off and landing. These thin and compact tablets could make bulky flight bags that are crammed with charts and manuals a thing of the past. Testing began last year and other airlines are expected to follow suit. While one plus is that it takes up so much less space, experts believe iPads could actually increase air safety on the flight deck.
American Airlines is teaming up with Beijing-based Hainan Airlines in a codeshare agreement. The two airlines will share each others routes, giving passengers more options for trips to China and beyond. Currently AA only flies to two Chinese destinations: Shanghai and Beijing from Chicago and Los Angeles. With this new venture, more than 40 Chinese cities will be added to the airline’s network. Let’s go to China!
It’s official, American Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the USA. After rounds and rounds of cutting costs, the airline still hasn’t broken even. With bankruptcy protection the airline can continue to be competitive in the airline industry while dealing with their growing debt. There will be no direct impact on flights or AA passengers.
This isn’t news for those on the inside. American Airlines has been battling with bankruptcy for almost 10 years. Negotiations with the airline’s labour unions (including pilots, flight attendants, mechanics/technicians and baggage handlers) have failed in the last few years (for obvious reasons) which is what has pushed the airline to make its most recent move for protection.
