Aviation

British Airways is exploring the possibility of using 3D printers to create aircraft parts in the future

Published

4 years ago

December 9, 2019

BRITISH AIRWAYS TRIALS 3D PRINTING TO IMPROVE PUNCTUALITY AND REDUCE EMISSIONS CAUSED BY FLYING SPARE PARTS AROUND THE WORLD

British Airways’ tech experts say the possibilities for 3D printing in aviation are limitless and share predictions of how 3D printers could transform the industry
In the future machines could routinely be used to create aircraft parts, reducing delays for customers
Initiative is part of airline’s flightpath to net zero carbon emissions by 2050

British Airways is exploring the possibility of using 3D printers to create aircraft parts in the future. These printers would be located at airports around the world to reduce delays for customers and emissions caused by transporting items.

The airline’s innovators predict that non-essential cabin parts will be first on the list to be generated, including pieces of tray tables, entertainment systems and toilets. While these components do not impact the safe operation of the flight, they can reduce the number of seats or toilets available for customers and cause delays as engineers wait for the parts to be flown to wherever the aircraft is.

Ricardo Vidal, Head of Innovation at British Airways, says this area of technology has never been more important to ensure sustainability and a seamless travel experience: “We work with start-ups and innovation partners from around the world to explore and implement the very latest technologies, from artificial intelligence to speed up turnaround times to biometrics, helping us to deliver a seamless airport experience for customers. 3D printing is yet another advancement that will keep us at the forefront of airline innovation.”

3D printing is an essential step towards the sustainable future of aviation, as the printers can produce parts that, while as strong and durable as traditional components, weigh up to 55 per cent. Every kilogram removed saves up to 25 tons of CO2 emissions during the lifespan of an aircraft.

Watch a time-lapse of a model of the airline’s A350 being printed

British Airways’ exploration of 3D printing follows the airline’s BA2119: Flight of the Future programme in celebration of it’s centenary. It’s research into the future of the customer experience suggested that within the next decade, biological scanners gathering travellers’ physiological and nutritional needs could suggest food and drink to meet individual requirements and print these on board the aircraft. In addition, the research predicts that jet lag could become be a thing of the past, with 3D printers producing personalised health supplements.

British Airways’ top ten predictions for how 3D printing could be used by airline’s in the future:

1. Cutlery

2. Products for amenity kits, such as toothbrushes or combs

3. Tray tables

4. Aircraft windows

5. Inflight entertainment screens

6. Seats

7. Baggage containers

8. Circuit boards for electrical components

9. Flight deck switches

10. Aircraft shells

Airlines

These are the four-star low-cost Carriers for 2024

Published

2 hours ago

September 25, 2023

Sana khan

These are the four-star low-cost Carriers for 2024

In the rapidly evolving world of aviation, staying ahead of the curve and finding the most cost-effective options for air travel is crucial for both travelers and airlines alike. As we approach the year 2024, Apex, a renowned authority in the aviation industry, has released its highly anticipated list of four-star low-cost carriers.

These are the airlines with Four-Star and Five-Star APEX ratings for 2024.(Opens in a new browser tab)

The APEX Four Star Airline Awards were unique since they were created solely from verified passenger reviews submitted by more than a million fliers using TripIt.

These airlines have achieved a remarkable combination of price and great service, making them the top alternatives for budget-conscious travelers searching for a pleasant and joyful flying experience. In this article, we will look at the four-star low-cost airlines for 2024.

Global Passenger Choice airline Award Winners 2022 by Apex.(Opens in a new browser tab)

low-cost Airlines

Allegiant
Breeze
GOL
Southwest
Spirit
Sun Country Airlines
WestJet

Airlines

These are the airlines with Four-Star and Five-Star APEX ratings for 2024.

Published

3 hours ago

September 25, 2023

Sana khan

These are the Airlines with Four and Five-Star APEX Ratings for 2024

In the ever-evolving world of aviation, these awards stand as a testament to excellence, innovation, and outstanding service within the airline industry. As travelers around the globe seek ever more personalized and remarkable experiences, these airlines have risen to the occasion, setting new standards for quality, comfort, and customer satisfaction.

World class airline awards 2022 by Apex(Opens in a new browser tab)

The APEX Five Star and Four Star Airline Awards were unique since they were created solely from verified passenger reviews submitted by more than a million fliers using TripIt.

Global Passenger Choice airline Award Winners 2022 by Apex.(Opens in a new browser tab)

Here, we’ve highlighted some of the 2024 Apex Four-Star and Five-Star Airlines Awards, recognizing these airline giants and the outstanding traveler experiences they provide. Whether you are a frequent traveler or only sometimes do so, these awards highlight the airlines who have changed the definition of what it means to fly in luxury and grace.

REGIONAL AIRLINE FIVE STAR*

GLOBAL AIRLINES FOUR STAR

British Airways
Ethiopian
Polish Airlines
Malaysia Airlines
Pakistan International Airlines
South African Airways
Thai Airways International

MAJOR ‎AIRLINES FOUR STAR

Aegean Airlines
AirEuropa
Avianca
flydubai
Royal Jordanian
SriLankan Airlines

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Airlines

Qantas says cost to fly may rise, Due to Soaring Jet Fuel Prices

Published

3 hours ago

September 25, 2023

Sana khan

Qantas says cost to fly may rise, Due to Soaring Jet Fuel Prices

Qantas has been absorbing a $200 million increase in fuel costs, the airline warned that if prices continue to rise, the costs may be passed on to customers and it may raise its already high ticket rates.

The airline reported in a market update that fuel costs have gone up 30% since May of this year, including 10% just in the past month. “This is driven by a combination of higher oil prices, higher refiner margins, and a lower Australian dollar,” Qantas stated.

Boeing warns new defect on 787 Dreamliners will slow deliveries(Opens in a new browser tab)

But Qantas asserted that it will keep an eye on fuel costs in the upcoming months and “look to adjust its settings” if they continue to be this high. Any modifications would aim to strike a balance between the need for reasonably priced travel in a situation where tickets are already high, according to Qantas.

Qantas and competing airlines use methods of hedging to control erratic pricing changes. An effort to win back consumer support that included an apology from the airline’s new CEO, Vanessa Hudson, and a commitment to rebuild the airline’s reputation after a “humbling period” is in jeopardy as a result of the warning about ticket prices.

Pilots warned of ‘low sealings’ at Utqiagvik airport Seal Sunbathing on the Runway(Opens in a new browser tab)

Analyst Owen Birrell with RBC Capital Markets predicted that the firm will likely accept the higher fuel costs “until its target margins come under pressure, and then would seek to claw back those costs through capacity cuts and higher fares.”

Given the increased competition, expanding consumer and corporate cost pressures, and incoming reinvestment in the product/platform, we don’t think a substantial earnings shift is possible going forward.

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