Airlines

Comac launches freighter conversion programme for ARJ21

On January 1, 2023, the bureau formally approved the ARJ21 passenger-to-cargo design change project, signalling a significant advancement in the development of commercial jet cargo aircraft in country and a more secure step in the serialization of the ARJ21 project. At the Design and R&D Center on January 6, COMAC conducted an activity for the airworthiness approval and research and development summary.

1st Overseas Delivery: Indonesia’s TransNusa Airlines Receives COMAC ARJ21(Opens in a new browser tab)

Another significant derivative model of the ARJ21 project, introduced after the business jet, is the ARJ21 passenger-to-cargo conversion. In May 2020, the project was started. By the end of December 2022, it will have through a number of research procedures, including preliminary design, thorough design, and modification implementation. Test flights for compliance verification and airworthiness compliance report approval.

Aircraft comparisons between the Chinese-built comac C919 and the Boeing 737 max 8 (Opens in a new browser tab)

ARJ21 passenger-to-cargo conversion is committed to becoming the main model in the regional air cargo market, with a maximum commercial load of 10 tons, safe, reliable, flexible and convenient, high volume utilization rate, good universality of ULDs, and meeting different standard sizes such as PMC, PAG, and AKE The loading of the container is equipped with a fully electric actuation system for the main cargo door, an advanced warning system, and a highly reliable freight system, with pressure relief and fire suppression, independent control of the air-conditioning package, and good drainage functions.

At present, there are already two contracted customers, Zhongyuan Longhao and Yuantong Aviation, and the first two aircraft will be delivered to the two users respectively.

Airlines

German Carrier Lufthansa Plans for 20% Job Cuts in Administration

Lufthansa Airlines is reportedly planning significant job cuts in its administrative workforce. According to Manager Magazin, the German carrier intends to reduce administrative positions by 20% as part of its cost-cutting measures amidst an anticipated decline in earnings.

This reduction could impact approximately 400 jobs, the report revealed. While Lufthansa has not directly commented on the layoffs, the airline confirmed its goal of cutting administrative costs by 20% by 2028.

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The strategy involves leveraging digital technologies, including artificial intelligence and automation. “A hiring freeze is currently in place for administrative roles at Lufthansa Airlines,” said a company spokesperson.

The staff reduction is expected to occur through natural attrition and age-related turnover, rather than forced layoffs. The internal projection cited by the magazine warns that Lufthansa could face an operating loss of €800 million ($843.92 million) by 2026 if no corrective measures are taken.

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The report highlights the challenges companies face in aligning workforce requirements with current and future demands. Failure to adapt could necessitate drastic actions, such as restructuring and layoffs, which carry significant repercussions for both the organization and its employees.

As Lufthansa navigates these challenges, the airline appears committed to balancing cost efficiency with digital transformation to maintain its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving industry.