Aviation

American Airlines ‘glitch’ allows all pilots to take vacation over Christmas week

A computer error has allowed too many pilots at American Airlines to schedule time off during the upcoming Christmas season, creating a potential pilot shortage for what is expected to be one of the busiest holidays in years for the airline industry.

The Fort Worth-based carrier said it hopes to avoid canceling any flights during the holiday period by calling in reserve pilots and offering other pilots 150% of their salaries to return to the cockpits during the time they have been approved to be on vacation.

“We are working diligently to address the issue and expect to avoid cancellations this holiday season,” the airline said in a statement.

Airline representatives declined to say how many of the carrier’s 15,000 pilots were allowed to take time off for the holiday. But the number was high enough that the carrier had to quickly adopt several new measures to keep its holiday flights on schedule.

During the Thanksgiving holiday, an estimated 28.5 million passengers flew on U.S.-based carriers, a 3% increase over the same time in 2016. The airline industry is bracing for an even bigger surge in travelers during the Christmas holiday.

The computer that manages payroll and vacation schedules at American Airlines is separate from the system that manages passenger reservations. Still, industry experts say the increased complexity of airline computer systems is to blame for a growing number of glitches that have recently grounded airplanes and posted ultra-cheap airfares.

In July 2015, United Airlines requested a ground stop for nearly 90 minutes for all U.S. departures. The airline blamed the problem on a failed computer network router that disrupted its reservation system.

In 2014, Delta Air Lines reported computer problems that produced super-cheap fares, while Alaska Airlines had a computer glitch that offered a promotional deal that expired before passengers could book it.

American Airlines had to ground flights for more than two hours because of a malfunctioning computer in April 2013.

Courtesy : Los Angeles Times

Related Topics:American Airlines Pilots leaves

Aviation

Qatar Airways’ AI Campaign Lets Passengers Star in Their Own Film

Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways has introduced a groundbreaking global film, ‘AI Adventure,’ which leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance its dedication to creating unparalleled, immersive experiences for its customers.

In a pioneering move, the campaign allows viewers to star in the film using advanced AI technology that integrates their likeness into the storyline. This innovative approach underscores the airline’s commitment to placing its customers at the center of its experiences.

Qatar Airways Launches Ticket Discount Campaign for Visa Card Users

The campaign offers viewers the chance to choose from various scenes and assume leading roles within the film. The advanced AI ensures that the characters accurately reflect the viewer’s appearance, adjusting to their facial features and skin tone.

To experience the emotive AI adventure, visit flyqatar.com or watch the film on the Qatar Airways YouTube channel.

For those interested in booking a journey with Qatar Airways, the new campaign highlights the ease of making Qatar Airways reservations and Qatar Airways ticket booking.

To explore more, you can use Qatar Airways booking services or check out options with QR airlines.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, commented: “At Qatar Airways, we aim not just to meet but to exceed customer expectations by anticipating their needs and creating deeply resonant experiences.

This new brand campaign is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.”

Qatar Airways Expands Connectivity to the Maldives Through New Partnership

Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, added: “Our latest campaign, featuring unprecedented AI capabilities in the airline industry, highlights our innovative spirit and customer-focused approach.

It transforms every journey into a unique adventure, proving that dreams have no limits.”

Qatar Airways Senior Vice President of Global Marketing & Corporate Communications, Mr. Babar Rahman, stated:

“This campaign exemplifies our vision as a leader in innovation. By offering a personalized brand experience where everyone can star, we’ve created meaningful connections with our audience, ensuring each moment is memorable.”