Airlines

Saudi Upgrades its first B777 aircraft first class here is the glimpse

Saudia Technic, a subsidiary of Saudia Group, has initiated a project to enhance the First Suites of its Boeing 777 aircraft fleet, exclusively designated for long-haul and direct Saudia flights. The company has successfully upgraded the First Suites of aircraft HZ-AK37 with plans to upgrade the remaining nine aircraft of the same model in the near future.

This development is in line with the most current innovations and advancements in the field of aircraft maintenance, which are intended to improve operational quality and elevate the travel experience for passengers.

Saudi Group subsidiary – Saudi Aerospace Engineering Company has started the project to modify the first class suites and cabins of SAUDIA's fleet of B777 aircraft, where it has completed the modernization of the cabin of the 1st aircraft (HZ-AK37),while the rest to follow soon. pic.twitter.com/EAXGVM9u0h— FL360aero (@fl360aero) October 17, 2023

A cutting-edge workshop has been constructed at the business’s headquarters at King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, following the successful acquisition and approval of all required materials.

To support the smooth execution of the necessary modifications and assembly processes, our workshop is fully furnished with cutting-edge facilities and equipment. Inspections from regulatory agencies that handled the granting of necessary permissions were used to monitor the development.

The procedures involved altering the system for latching and operating the First Suite cabin doors by adding an additional latch and increasing the number of moving routes to allow smooth and steady door movement. In addition, a sophisticated, high-quality metal gear system was fitted horizontally to offset any potential impact produced by the door’s weight.

These technical steps have resulted in a reduction in overall aircraft weight and increased efficiency, both of which considerably contribute to lower operational costs.

Airlines

Qantas Engineers Stage Walkout Over Cost of Living Concerns

Tensions at Qantas reached new heights as base maintenance workers in Brisbane walked out of a hangar meeting hosted by the airline’s CEO, Vanessa Hudson.

The walkout was a clear display of displeasure and aimed to send a strong message to the company’s management about the growing frustrations within the workforce. The workers, represented by the Qantas Engineers Alliance, have been pushing for wage increases that reflect the rising cost of living.

In an open display of displeasure, Qantas Base maintenance workers walked out of a hangar meet hosted by the CEO Vanessa Hudson in Brisbane, also aimed to send a message to the management.

Qantas Engineers Alliance members have been demanding decent wage increases to match with… pic.twitter.com/y9EVjc46VM— FL360aero (@fl360aero) September 14, 2024

Despite ongoing discussions, the employees feel that their concerns have been overlooked, leading to this public show of dissent. The hangar meeting, meant to foster dialogue and address employee concerns, instead became the stage for a visible demonstration of dissatisfaction as the workers exited in unison.

For some time, the engineers and maintenance staff have expressed frustration over wage stagnation amid increasing inflation and living costs. Their demand is simple: a decent and fair wage adjustment that keeps pace with economic realities. The walkout underscores the workers’ determination to stand firm on their request for better pay and fair treatment.

As Qantas navigates its recovery post-pandemic, this incident highlights the growing internal challenges the airline faces, especially concerning its workforce. The maintenance staff’s actions have put additional pressure on the company’s leadership to address the wage concerns and avoid further escalation.