Airlines

Virgin Atlantic to join SkyTeam alliance

SkyTeam, the global airline alliance, and Virgin Atlantic have announced that the UK airline will join as SkyTeam’s newest member in early 2023

SkyTeam, the global airline alliance, and Virgin Atlantic have announced that the UK airline will join as SkyTeam’s newest member in early 2023. Virgin Atlantic will join SkyTeam as the first and only airline from the United Kingdom, expanding the alliance’s transatlantic network with services to and from Manchester and Heathrow.

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Customers of Virgin Atlantic will enjoy a consistent, seamless customer experience at more than 1,000 international locations. Additionally, they will gain access to a network of more than 750 airport lounges spread across six continents and more possibilities to accumulate and redeem points across member airlines.

With a global extension of its reward program, the airline’s Flying Club members will start receiving major perks on the day they join. SkyTeam Elite Members will be recognized as Virgin Atlantic Silver Card holders, while Elite Plus status will be awarded to the airline’s Gold Card customers.

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Numerous advantages are available as a result of this identification, including priority boarding, baggage management, and check-in. As soon as Virgin Atlantic formally joins SkyTeam, which is anticipated in early 2023, Flying Club members will be able to take advantage of the perks.

At Virgin Atlantic’s hub at London Heathrow Terminal 3, SkyTeam members Delta, Air France, and KLM are already based there. Regional airports in the UK, such as Edinburgh and Manchester, are served by Virgin Atlantic’s long-haul flights. In collaboration with Delta Air Lines, Air France, and KLM, the airline offers a wide network to North America and the Caribbean. In addition, it runs flights to Greater China, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan, and South Africa.

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.