Jetstar to make Changi Airport its largest hub in Asia
Changi Airport Group (CAG) and Jetstar signed an agreement today to launch a strategic partnership that will see Jetstar continue to make Singapore Changi Airport its largest air hub in Asia for both short and long haul operations. As part of the agreement, Jetstar will operate its highest number of services and base its largest number of A320-family aircraft in Asia at Changi. It also commits to introduce long haul services using wide body aircraft out of Singapore.
Under the three-year agreement, the Jetstar Group – which includes Jetstar in Australia and Jetstar Asia/ Valuair based in Singapore – is committed to increase existing flight frequencies and offer more destinations from Singapore.
Jetstar’s projected growth at Changi will include additional A320-family narrow body services and, for the first time, wide-body A330-200 medium and long haul flights to and from destinations in Asia and beyond. Jetstar also aims to grow the percentage of transit and transfer traffic through Changi among its passengers.
CAG will support Jetstar’s continued growth at Changi Airport with various incentives under the Changi Airport Growth Initiative which was introduced on 1 January 2010. The incentives will enable Jetstar to lower its cost of operations at Changi. It will also receive additional incentives for launching services to cities not currently connected to Changi. This will provide more offerings and new exciting destinations for passengers travelling via and out of Singapore.
As a partner, CAG will work closely with Jetstar to explore route opportunities to grow its traffic out of Changi. CAG will also support Jetstar’s operational needs, such as to improve its ground operations and to enhance the airport experience of its passengers, for example by introducing an early check-in option for Jetstar passengers travelling on the same day.
Growing at Changi, together
Welcoming CAG’s partnership with Jetstar, CAG Chief Executive Officer, Mr Lee Seow Hiang, said, “We are honoured that Jetstar has chosen Changi Airport to be its largest hub in Asia. We are committed to supporting Jetstar’s growth at Changi by helping it to grow traffic and to keep costs low. By hubbing at Changi, Jetstar will gain from inter-lining opportunities with the many airlines that fly here, including its parent, Qantas, which already uses Changi as an Asia hub.
“For Changi Airport, it will benefit from Jetstar’s increased number of flights and destinations, which will contribute to higher passenger traffic and a stronger connectivity network. And, importantly, this partnership is also beneficial for air travellers in the region who will enjoy a greater choice of low-fare travel options through Changi.”
Mr Lee added, “Our agreement with Jetstar signals CAG’s strong desire to work with our airline partners to grow the pie at Changi. We are ready to develop customised partnerships with airlines based on their business models and growth plans, whether they are full service or low cost carriers.”
Jetstar Chief Executive Officer Mr Bruce Buchanan said the new agreement would support significant growth opportunities for Jetstar and its networks linking Singapore.
“This agreement is most important to us and provides a platform for sustainable future growth throughout Asia,” Mr Buchanan said.
“Partnerships like this with Changi Airport Group allow us to invest in both existing and new flying markets and present opportunities from Singapore for us to drive growth.
“Singapore is of high strategic importance to Jetstar and equally of great importance to the Qantas Group. This agreement provides further leverage to us now seeking the full benefits of a burgeoning hub operation in Singapore.
“The clear operational advantages of Singapore as a hub and primary access point into Asia are clear and can now be further built upon as a result of this agreement.”
Jetstar, a pioneer in Asia’s low cost carrier sector, operates 408 flights each week to and from Changi, offering its passengers a varied menu of 23 destinations. Its future planned growth is supported by fleet expansion plans to beyond 100 aircraft by 2014/15.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
Jetstar set to transform airport experience for customers via efficient self-service check-in model USD $3.5 billion deal
Jetstar set to transform airport experience for customers via efficient self-service check-in model USD $3.5 billion deal with International Aero Engines (IAE) signed
Low fares leader Jetstar will set about transforming the check-in experience for its Australian and New Zealand domestic customers during 2010 by unveiling a new approach towards the airport experience for customers with a target of 100 per cent customer self service.
The proposal builds upon existing customer self service technology now in place for Jetstar’s domestic passenger base including Web Check and Self Service Kiosks at some Airports.
This will be complemented by the introduction of world-first SMS Boarding Pass technology during the first 2010 quarter and automatic Web Check and pre-enrolment for flights at time of booking.
Jetstar Chief Executive Officer Bruce Buchanan announced the airline’s plans during an address to the Low Cost Airlines World Asia Pacific 2010 Conference in Singapore.
In a series of announcements the Pan Asian carrier also secured Agreements valued at up to USD $3.5 billion with the International Aero Engines (IAE) consortium to have the latest V2500 SelectOne™ engine power a new fleet of 50 additional Airbus A320 family aircraft for the Jetstar Group, with options and purchase rights on up to 40 more aircraft.
The major deal, one of the largest in Jetstar’s history, includes an Engine Purchase Agreement valued around USD $1.5 billion if all options and purchase rights are exercised to be distributed amongst the mainline Jetstar fleet based in Australia and New Zealand, as well as with Jetstar Asia/Valuair of Singapore and Jetstar Pacific, based in Vietnam,.
A long-term USD $2 billion Aftermarket Services Agreement will cover these new engines and those installed on 40 IAE-powered aircraft that the Jetstar businesses currently operate.
Mr Buchanan said over the term of the Agreements significant savings would be generated and solidified a long term strategic commercial relationship with IAE to help support Jetstar’s continued growth, including its Pan Asian network plans.
“The Agreements reflect Jetstar’s continued focus on cost-competitive outcomes and fostering long term partnerships that help deliver sustainable low fares and growth,” Mr Buchanan said.
Jetstar’s move to help put people back in control of their airport experience during domestic travel will incorporate a more streamlined and hassle-free customer airport experience supported by:
Doubling the number and footprint of Self-Check Kiosks across Jetstar’s Australian and New Zealand domestic networks. Kiosks will cover all domestic ports in Australia and NZ;
Introduction of world-first SMS boarding pass technology across Jetstar’s domestic Australian & New Zealand ports during 2010 and fitted to all Jetstar Self-Check Kiosks;
Enhanced web tools such as Automatic Web-Check at Jetstar.com;
Redeploying existing Jetstar staff from primarily check-in duties to customer service and revenue generating activities.
Mr Buchanan said the airline’s fresh approach towards allowing its domestic customer base greater choice in self service prior to their travel would balance the efficient application of new technology for air travelers with strong customer service outcomes.
“Through our growing suite of innovative new customer facing applications at Airports we are seeking to ensure that the airport experience is increasingly convenient, easier and more hassle-free than before,” Mr Buchanan said.
“The approach we are taking is firmly designed around improving, not reducing, the customer service and airport experience at increasingly busy terminals, and of empowering both regular and irregular Jetstar flyers to use technology to take control of the airport experience.
“This is an extremely positive and exciting step forward for our airline as well as for our employees that will greatly enhance customer service levels.
“There will be no change in our Airport staffing numbers under this model, meaning our Airport Customer Service personnel can move beyond the check-in counter to spend more effective time directly with our customers prior to flying.”
Jetstar passengers who Web-Check for Australian domestic flights will soon be given the option to have their boarding pass and unique boarding code sent to their mobile phone via a standard text SMS message.
The SMS technology has been developed by Melbourne-based company Sissit Group with which Jetstar has a Research and Development arrangement.
Unlike some other airlines who have introduced this technology to WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) or internet enabled handsets, in a global first, any mobile phone will be able to accept the Jetstar boarding pass on a domestic flight via the common text message.
This will allow customers who purchase fares via Jetstar.com to request at the time of booking for the airline to automatically check the passenger(s) in 24 hours prior to their Jetstar flight departure with the boarding pass to then be sent via email or SMS text message.
Mr Buchanan said SMS boarding pass technology would be further trialled on Sydney-Melbourne (Avalon) flights from late February 2010, with a staged roll-out across Jetstar’s domestic Australian and New Zealand networks during the 2010 calendar year.
He said automatic check-in when purchasing a fare at Jetstar.com had commenced earlier this month.
“Automatic check-in for the airline’s Australian and New Zealand domestic services allows passengers at the time of booking to choose to check-in and have their boarding passes automatically sent to them via email 24-48 hours before flight departure,” Mr Buchanan said.
“The new technology will be further enhanced when SMS boarding pass technology is fully activated, meaning a boarding pass can then be delivered direct to the future passenger’s mobile phone.
“By introducing applications such as Automatic Web-Check and SMS Boarding Passes, Jetstar saves real costs, which we are able to directly pass on to our customers with our low fares.”
Low fares leader Jetstar will set about transforming the check-in experience for its Australian and New Zealand domestic customers during 2010 by unveiling a new approach towards the airport experience for customers with a target of 100 per cent customer self service.
The proposal builds upon existing customer self service technology now in place for Jetstar’s domestic passenger base including Web Check and Self Service Kiosks at some Airports.
This will be complemented by the introduction of world-first SMS Boarding Pass technology during the first 2010 quarter and automatic Web Check and pre-enrolment for flights at time of booking.
Jetstar Chief Executive Officer Bruce Buchanan announced the airline’s plans during an address to the Low Cost Airlines World Asia Pacific 2010 Conference in Singapore.
In a series of announcements the Pan Asian carrier also secured Agreements valued at up to USD $3.5 billion with the International Aero Engines (IAE) consortium to have the latest V2500 SelectOne™ engine power a new fleet of 50 additional Airbus A320 family aircraft for the Jetstar Group, with options and purchase rights on up to 40 more aircraft.
The major deal, one of the largest in Jetstar’s history, includes an Engine Purchase Agreement valued around USD $1.5 billion if all options and purchase rights are exercised to be distributed amongst the mainline Jetstar fleet based in Australia and New Zealand, as well as with Jetstar Asia/Valuair of Singapore and Jetstar Pacific, based in Vietnam,.
A long-term USD $2 billion Aftermarket Services Agreement will cover these new engines and those installed on 40 IAE-powered aircraft that the Jetstar businesses currently operate.
Mr Buchanan said over the term of the Agreements significant savings would be generated and solidified a long term strategic commercial relationship with IAE to help support Jetstar’s continued growth, including its Pan Asian network plans.
“The Agreements reflect Jetstar’s continued focus on cost-competitive outcomes and fostering long term partnerships that help deliver sustainable low fares and growth,” Mr Buchanan said.
Jetstar’s move to help put people back in control of their airport experience during domestic travel will incorporate a more streamlined and hassle-free customer airport experience supported by:
Doubling the number and footprint of Self-Check Kiosks across Jetstar’s Australian and New Zealand domestic networks. Kiosks will cover all domestic ports in Australia and NZ;
Introduction of world-first SMS boarding pass technology across Jetstar’s domestic Australian & New Zealand ports during 2010 and fitted to all Jetstar Self-Check Kiosks;
Enhanced web tools such as Automatic Web-Check at Jetstar.com;
Redeploying existing Jetstar staff from primarily check-in duties to customer service and revenue generating activities.
Mr Buchanan said the airline’s fresh approach towards allowing its domestic customer base greater choice in self service prior to their travel would balance the efficient application of new technology for air travelers with strong customer service outcomes.
“Through our growing suite of innovative new customer facing applications at Airports we are seeking to ensure that the airport experience is increasingly convenient, easier and more hassle-free than before,” Mr Buchanan said.
“The approach we are taking is firmly designed around improving, not reducing, the customer service and airport experience at increasingly busy terminals, and of empowering both regular and irregular Jetstar flyers to use technology to take control of the airport experience.
“This is an extremely positive and exciting step forward for our airline as well as for our employees that will greatly enhance customer service levels.
“There will be no change in our Airport staffing numbers under this model, meaning our Airport Customer Service personnel can move beyond the check-in counter to spend more effective time directly with our customers prior to flying.”
Jetstar passengers who Web-Check for Australian domestic flights will soon be given the option to have their boarding pass and unique boarding code sent to their mobile phone via a standard text SMS message.
The SMS technology has been developed by Melbourne-based company Sissit Group with which Jetstar has a Research and Development arrangement.
Unlike some other airlines who have introduced this technology to WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) or internet enabled handsets, in a global first, any mobile phone will be able to accept the Jetstar boarding pass on a domestic flight via the common text message.
This will allow customers who purchase fares via Jetstar.com to request at the time of booking for the airline to automatically check the passenger(s) in 24 hours prior to their Jetstar flight departure with the boarding pass to then be sent via email or SMS text message.
Mr Buchanan said SMS boarding pass technology would be further trialled on Sydney-Melbourne (Avalon) flights from late February 2010, with a staged roll-out across Jetstar’s domestic Australian and New Zealand networks during the 2010 calendar year.
He said automatic check-in when purchasing a fare at Jetstar.com had commenced earlier this month.
“Automatic check-in for the airline’s Australian and New Zealand domestic services allows passengers at the time of booking to choose to check-in and have their boarding passes automatically sent to them via email 24-48 hours before flight departure,” Mr Buchanan said.
“The new technology will be further enhanced when SMS boarding pass technology is fully activated, meaning a boarding pass can then be delivered direct to the future passenger’s mobile phone.
“By introducing applications such as Automatic Web-Check and SMS Boarding Passes, Jetstar saves real costs, which we are able to directly pass on to our customers with our low fares.”
Friday, January 29, 2010
Emirates Airline takes delivery of Airbus’ 6,000th aircraft
Emirates Airline and Airbus have marked a major achievement, by celebrating the hand-over of the 6,000th aircraft in the airframe manufacturer’s 40 year history. The aircraft, an A380, was handed over to Emirates Airline in a ceremony in Hamburg. The aircraft is Emirates’ eighth A380.
Accepting delivery of the new aircraft, Adel Al Redha, Executive Vice President, Emirates' Engineering and Operations, said: “The A380 represents the future of air travel and our strength and determination to drive forward, alongside Airbus, to meet our ambitious expansion plans and traffic demand. If a powerful demonstration of the resilience of the aviation industry was required, today has provided that. All who have flown the A380 will realise that this is a very special aircraft, embracing the latest in passenger comfort, technology and environmental credentials.”
“Today’s delivery is our 25th A380 so far, and more importantly, the 6,000th Airbus produced in our 40 year history. It is particularly significant that it is both an A380 and for Emirates, as they were involved in its development from early on. We are proud to have the words ‘Airbus 6,000th Aircraft’ inscribed alongside the Emirates livery,” said Tom Enders, Airbus CEO.
With a total order for 58 aircraft, Emirates is the single largest customer for the A380. Established in 1985, Emirates became an Airbus operator from the outset. Today, Emirates’ Airbus fleet has grown to 55 aircraft with a further 121 on order.
Airbus was formed in 1969, and by 2005 had reached more than 50 per cent of worldwide deliveries in a single year, of all aircraft of more than 100 seats. It also took Airbus some 30 years after its initial creation to bypass its main competitor in terms of sales and remain at around half the market share.
Accepting delivery of the new aircraft, Adel Al Redha, Executive Vice President, Emirates' Engineering and Operations, said: “The A380 represents the future of air travel and our strength and determination to drive forward, alongside Airbus, to meet our ambitious expansion plans and traffic demand. If a powerful demonstration of the resilience of the aviation industry was required, today has provided that. All who have flown the A380 will realise that this is a very special aircraft, embracing the latest in passenger comfort, technology and environmental credentials.”
“Today’s delivery is our 25th A380 so far, and more importantly, the 6,000th Airbus produced in our 40 year history. It is particularly significant that it is both an A380 and for Emirates, as they were involved in its development from early on. We are proud to have the words ‘Airbus 6,000th Aircraft’ inscribed alongside the Emirates livery,” said Tom Enders, Airbus CEO.
With a total order for 58 aircraft, Emirates is the single largest customer for the A380. Established in 1985, Emirates became an Airbus operator from the outset. Today, Emirates’ Airbus fleet has grown to 55 aircraft with a further 121 on order.
Airbus was formed in 1969, and by 2005 had reached more than 50 per cent of worldwide deliveries in a single year, of all aircraft of more than 100 seats. It also took Airbus some 30 years after its initial creation to bypass its main competitor in terms of sales and remain at around half the market share.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
THAI and Nok Air Join Force to Boost Domestic and Regional Air Traffic
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is joining force with Nok Air. From 1 March 2010, Nok Air will operate flight to some of THAI’s domestic destinations: Phitsanulok, Ubol Ratchathani, and Mae Hong Son. This cooperation will increase competitiveness of both airlines, and passengers will be able to take advantage of more convenient travel at low-fare prices while still maintaining THAI’s high safety standards.
Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, THAI President, said that the Company’s policy to form cooperation with Nok Air is based on its Two-Brand Strategy. Through this strategy, there will be increased cooperation in the services offered on secondary domestic and regional routes. Through THAI and Nok Air’s cooperation, passengers on these routs will continue to receive the same standard of services that they currently receive on THAI, such as: 1. Same flight frequencies, whereby there are no less flights than previously operated, 2. Same standards of aircraft maintenance, and 3. Same cockpit crew standards. THAI has made careful studies thoroughly assessed the flight sectors concerned to prevent negative impacts on customers. Connecting traffic between domestic routes from Nok Air to THAI international flights have been worked out. The cooperation will add more connecting points in the secondary domestic and regional destinations to THAI and Star Alliance’s global network. THAI will be able to better utilize its aircraft by offering more flight option to high-demand destinations, while still emphasizing its premium service standards to passengers based on its strategic plan.
The Company has conducted a study on the performance of its domestic routes during the past 10 years, particularly on secondary routes which was unprofitable for several years but operations were sustained for the travelling public. However, in order to meet demands of a continually changing international airline industry, airlines across the world, including THAI, had to adjust their strategic planning on the recovering world economy: fluctuating world fuel prices that are on the rise, and Influenza A (H1N1), in order to surpass the financial crisis and further its business operations. The Company, therefore, had to establish its corporate strategy and make adjustment on its cost to meet increased competitiveness. Over the past 5 years, losses were incurred for operational results on flights to Phitsanulok at the average of 86.3 million baht per year, to Ubol Ratchathani at 74.9 million baht per year, and to Mae Hong Son at the average of 49.9 million baht per year.
Passengers can be confident on Nok Air’s standards of flight operations and services that will be supported by THAI which is recognised for its high safety standards. In addition, passengers will continue to receive the same standards of service that they previously received from THAI, including the flight frequency and seat capacity at attractive prices.
Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, THAI President, said that the Company’s policy to form cooperation with Nok Air is based on its Two-Brand Strategy. Through this strategy, there will be increased cooperation in the services offered on secondary domestic and regional routes. Through THAI and Nok Air’s cooperation, passengers on these routs will continue to receive the same standard of services that they currently receive on THAI, such as: 1. Same flight frequencies, whereby there are no less flights than previously operated, 2. Same standards of aircraft maintenance, and 3. Same cockpit crew standards. THAI has made careful studies thoroughly assessed the flight sectors concerned to prevent negative impacts on customers. Connecting traffic between domestic routes from Nok Air to THAI international flights have been worked out. The cooperation will add more connecting points in the secondary domestic and regional destinations to THAI and Star Alliance’s global network. THAI will be able to better utilize its aircraft by offering more flight option to high-demand destinations, while still emphasizing its premium service standards to passengers based on its strategic plan.
The Company has conducted a study on the performance of its domestic routes during the past 10 years, particularly on secondary routes which was unprofitable for several years but operations were sustained for the travelling public. However, in order to meet demands of a continually changing international airline industry, airlines across the world, including THAI, had to adjust their strategic planning on the recovering world economy: fluctuating world fuel prices that are on the rise, and Influenza A (H1N1), in order to surpass the financial crisis and further its business operations. The Company, therefore, had to establish its corporate strategy and make adjustment on its cost to meet increased competitiveness. Over the past 5 years, losses were incurred for operational results on flights to Phitsanulok at the average of 86.3 million baht per year, to Ubol Ratchathani at 74.9 million baht per year, and to Mae Hong Son at the average of 49.9 million baht per year.
Passengers can be confident on Nok Air’s standards of flight operations and services that will be supported by THAI which is recognised for its high safety standards. In addition, passengers will continue to receive the same standards of service that they previously received from THAI, including the flight frequency and seat capacity at attractive prices.
Asian Countries Agree to Pursue Treaty on Dry Ports to Promote Regional Integration
Transport Ministers Forum concludes first session at ESCAP in Bangkok
Transport ministers from across Asia have agreed to work on a treaty to promote the development of dry ports – inland transport and logistics hubs – to spur intraregional trade and growth.
The agreement came at the end of the first session of the Forum of Asian Ministers of Transport, which concluded today at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok.
In the Bangkok Declaration on Transport Development in Asia, the ministers agreed to develop an intergovernmental agreement on dry ports to provide connectivity and integration of the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks, creating an international integrated intermodal transport and logistics system.
Under the auspices of ESCAP, countries in the region have already adopted two intergovernmental agreements - on the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks - to promote the development and standardization of 141,000 kilometers of roadways and 114,000 kilometers of railways, linking the continent with Europe and serving as arteries for international trade, especially for landlocked countries in the region.
Dry ports will play an important role in integrating modes of transport, reducing border crossing and transit delays, facilitating the use of energy-efficient and lower emission means of transport, and creating new clusters of economic growth and job creation in local areas.
The first session of the Forum brought together 27 countries in Asia. In his opening message on Monday, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated that “enhanced regional connectivity is especially important” in addressing development issues.
In her opening address, Noeleen Heyzer, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, spoke of the vital role of the transport sector in providing physical connectivity required for promoting domestic demand and intraregional trade as new sources of growth.
“The economic crisis has shown that relying mainly on exports to western markets comes with inherent risks. Our region will need to diversify the drivers of growth. This must include strategies for promoting increased intra-regional trade and domestic consumption,” said Dr. Heyzer.
The Forum was created by member governments of ESCAP at their annual meeting last April. During the week-long session, delegates discussed issues pertaining to transport development in the region, including the implementation of the Busan Declaration on Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific, and the Regional Action Programme for Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific.
Transport ministers from across Asia have agreed to work on a treaty to promote the development of dry ports – inland transport and logistics hubs – to spur intraregional trade and growth.
The agreement came at the end of the first session of the Forum of Asian Ministers of Transport, which concluded today at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok.
In the Bangkok Declaration on Transport Development in Asia, the ministers agreed to develop an intergovernmental agreement on dry ports to provide connectivity and integration of the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks, creating an international integrated intermodal transport and logistics system.
Under the auspices of ESCAP, countries in the region have already adopted two intergovernmental agreements - on the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks - to promote the development and standardization of 141,000 kilometers of roadways and 114,000 kilometers of railways, linking the continent with Europe and serving as arteries for international trade, especially for landlocked countries in the region.
Dry ports will play an important role in integrating modes of transport, reducing border crossing and transit delays, facilitating the use of energy-efficient and lower emission means of transport, and creating new clusters of economic growth and job creation in local areas.
The first session of the Forum brought together 27 countries in Asia. In his opening message on Monday, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated that “enhanced regional connectivity is especially important” in addressing development issues.
In her opening address, Noeleen Heyzer, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, spoke of the vital role of the transport sector in providing physical connectivity required for promoting domestic demand and intraregional trade as new sources of growth.
“The economic crisis has shown that relying mainly on exports to western markets comes with inherent risks. Our region will need to diversify the drivers of growth. This must include strategies for promoting increased intra-regional trade and domestic consumption,” said Dr. Heyzer.
The Forum was created by member governments of ESCAP at their annual meeting last April. During the week-long session, delegates discussed issues pertaining to transport development in the region, including the implementation of the Busan Declaration on Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific, and the Regional Action Programme for Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
ETIHAD TO JOIN SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL USERS GROUP
Etihad Airways has joined the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group (SAFUG), an airline-led industry working group established in 2008 to accelerate the commercialisation and availability of sustainable biofuels.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: ““Etihad recognises the need for step-changes in aviation to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and meet our industry’s carbon reduction goal. We also recognise that any fuel alternatives must be morally, socially and environmentally acceptable, while not compromising the future sustainability of the aviation industry.”
SAFUG members are bound by stringent criteria for the development of non fossil fuels, including the following:
The development of plant sources must be undertaken in a manner that is non-competitive with food, with biodiversity impacts minimised and without jeopardizing drinking water supplies. The total lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from plant growth, harvesting, processing and end-use should be significantly less than that from fossil sources. In developing economies, development projects should include provisions or outcomes that improve socio-economic conditions for small-scale farmers and their families and that do not require the involuntary displacement of local populations. High conservation value areas and native eco-systems should not be cleared and converted for jet fuel plant source development.
Each SAFUG member has pledged to work through the Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), a global multi-stakeholder initiative consisting of leading environmental organizations, financiers, biofuel developers, biofuel-interested petroleum companies, the transportation sector, developing-world poverty alleviation associations, research entities, and governments.
“Abu Dhabi, our home base, has itself made a strong commitment towards sustainability and in the promotion of renewable energy through the establishment of Masdar City, which will the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency,” Mr Hogan said.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: ““Etihad recognises the need for step-changes in aviation to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and meet our industry’s carbon reduction goal. We also recognise that any fuel alternatives must be morally, socially and environmentally acceptable, while not compromising the future sustainability of the aviation industry.”
SAFUG members are bound by stringent criteria for the development of non fossil fuels, including the following:
The development of plant sources must be undertaken in a manner that is non-competitive with food, with biodiversity impacts minimised and without jeopardizing drinking water supplies. The total lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from plant growth, harvesting, processing and end-use should be significantly less than that from fossil sources. In developing economies, development projects should include provisions or outcomes that improve socio-economic conditions for small-scale farmers and their families and that do not require the involuntary displacement of local populations. High conservation value areas and native eco-systems should not be cleared and converted for jet fuel plant source development.
Each SAFUG member has pledged to work through the Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), a global multi-stakeholder initiative consisting of leading environmental organizations, financiers, biofuel developers, biofuel-interested petroleum companies, the transportation sector, developing-world poverty alleviation associations, research entities, and governments.
“Abu Dhabi, our home base, has itself made a strong commitment towards sustainability and in the promotion of renewable energy through the establishment of Masdar City, which will the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency,” Mr Hogan said.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
Google is first to offer seamless integration of transit and traffic information of Bangkok on Google Maps to help travelers get around faster and eas
Partnering with all major Bangkok transport agencies, Google is the only organization that provides walking and driving directions, public transit route planning and traffic information in one easy-to-use platform
Bangkok, November 25, 2009 - What do 1.7 million daily public transit riders per day. Combined total of BTS, MRT and BMTA passengers per day. And over 5 million motorists in Bangkok have in common? They can now use Google Maps to plan their trips around the city through a unique collaboration between Google and the following land transportation organizations in Bangkok: Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS) and Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT). Mapping, directions and route planning for the various forms of land transportation in Bangkok - from our own two feet to buses, trains and cars - are now all available for free in Thai on Google Maps. Transit and traffic information are also available on mobile devices with Google Maps for Mobile, so commuters and motorists can check the latest updates on their cellphones to make route changes on-the-go.
Today at Siam Square, overlooking one of Bangkok's busiest transportation hubs, Wisit Wongsaroj, Head of the office of Information Technology, Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), Kobkul Mothana, Director-technology information, Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), Arkom Baramichai, Chief Administrative Officer, Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS), Witoon Hatairatana Marketing and Commercial Development Division Director, Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT), Andrew McGlinchey, Head of Product Management, Google Southeast Asia, and Pornthip Kongchun, Thailand Marketing Head, Google Southeast Asia, launched this new service, which can be accessed through Google Maps at maps.google.co.th/transport.
Under this collaboration, Google is the first organization to officially receive bus/train schedules, locations and routes from the BMTA, BTS and MRT. Google also worked with the OTP to integrate live traffic data into the popular and familiar user interface of Google Maps. None of the local partners are incurring any costs for the partnership with Google.
Whether a private car owner switching to go by bus or BTS or MRT, or a public transit rider choosing to drive or take a taxi, or even one of 10 million international visitors Office of Tourism Development, Thailand who land in Bangkok each year finding their way around, the Bangkok public can now use Google Maps to plan their routes and make an informed decision on the quickest and most convenient way to reach their destinations. Each time a Google Maps user requests driving directions, the user will also be given the opportunity to plan the same trip using public transit which is very useful when the traffic route is highlighted as red or heavy congestion.
"Each day, millions of commuters travel the streets of Bangkok using BMTA buses. With the launch of transit information on Google Maps for Bangkok with step-by-step instructions in Thai, it is now even easier to go green and take public transportation around the city. We are delighted to be collaborating with Google and our other local partners to provide residents and visitors in Bangkok a comprehensive, easy-to-use trip planner that links BMTA buses to the rest of the city's other public transit options," said Wisit Wongsaroj, Head of the office of Information Technology, Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA).
"Our office is excited to have worked closely with Google to make it easy for Bangkok motorists to access current traffic conditions on their computers or mobile phones," said Kobkul Mothana, Director-technology information, Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP). "In accordance with our mission to ensure an efficient transportation system in Thailand, we believe that the traffic layer on Google Maps will help drivers in Bangkok save on commuting time and expenses by letting them plan their travel routes in advance or change them on-the-go to avoid congested areas."
"This year marks our 10th anniversary of operations in Bangkok and we are pleased to be joining Google and our other transportation colleagues in announcing the availability of transit information on Google Maps," said Arkom Baramichai, Chief Administrative Officer, Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS). "The train routes and schedules from BTS have been integrated into the transit information on Google Maps to better inform Bangkok commuters about which mode of transportation to use on any given day. We hope that everyone in Bangkok uses the tool in order to make their daily commutes easier."
"Our mission has always been to provide mass transit services to the public that are safe, fast, reliable and punctual. This transit feature integrates MRT data on Google Maps to enhance commuters' experience by making it easy for them to plan their trips across multiple forms of public transit. Whether it's trying to get to the Thai Cultural Center on Rajadapisek road or grabbing a bite to eat at Japanese restaurant near Silom Station, Google Maps will help commuters get to their destinations as quickly as possible," said Witoon Hatairatana Marketing and Commercial Development Division Director, Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT).
"Google's goal is to bring accurate, comprehensive land transport information from OTP, BMTA, BTS and MRT together on a global mapping platform for easy access, search and use on PCs or mobile phones by millions of Bangkok residents and Google Maps users around the world," said Pornthip. “Google is currently the only organization that has combined all the forms of land transportation in Bangkok into one easy-to-use Thai interface. We're very excited to be launching this service today in Bangkok and we hope that residents and visitors to the city, whether they are traveling by foot, bus, train or car will find it helpful in getting to their destinations."
Google Maps for Mobile offers transit, traffic and driving information on-the-go
Google Maps for Mobile extends the dynamic search capabilities of Google Maps to mobile phones, allowing anyone in Thailand to locate addresses and navigate maps while on the go. Google Maps for Mobile also has the My Location feature, which shows your location on the map even if your phone does not have GPS, and lets you look up business listings in relation to where you are (e.g. type "restaurants" into the map search box and it will display nearby restaurants).
When in Bangkok, users can now also use the traffic and transit features in Google Maps for Mobile to plan their travel while on the move. Google Maps for Mobile is free to download on your phone at http://m.google.co.th/maps. It also comes pre-installed on many web-enabled handsets. The services on Google Maps for Mobile are free; however, standard mobile data fees charged by the telecoms carriers will apply.
About Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP)
The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), Ministry of Transport, is responsible for recommending policies and formulating transport, traffic and transport safety plans in line with master plans for policy integration purposes
About Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA)
Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) was established by a Royal Decree Establishing the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, B.E. 2519. Beginning operations the following October, the BMTA undertook to provide bus service to commuters in six provinces, i.e. Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Pathum Thani, Samut Sakhon and Samut Prakan.
About Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS)
BTSC operates one of the safest and most punctual mass transit systems in the region, and plays a crucial role in helping to ease Bangkok’s notorious traffic jams while providing an environmentally friendly transport alternative for Bangkok’s commuters.
About Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT)
MRT: safe, fast, convenience, trustworthy, and punctual
About Google Inc.
Google's innovative search technologies connect millions of people around the world with information every day. Founded in 1998 by Stanford Ph.D. students Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Google today is a top web property in all major global markets. Google's targeted advertising program provides businesses of all sizes with measurable results, while enhancing the overall web experience for users. Google is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.google.co.th.
Google and Google AdWords are registered trademarks of Google Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.
Bangkok, November 25, 2009 - What do 1.7 million daily public transit riders per day. Combined total of BTS, MRT and BMTA passengers per day. And over 5 million motorists in Bangkok have in common? They can now use Google Maps to plan their trips around the city through a unique collaboration between Google and the following land transportation organizations in Bangkok: Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS) and Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT). Mapping, directions and route planning for the various forms of land transportation in Bangkok - from our own two feet to buses, trains and cars - are now all available for free in Thai on Google Maps. Transit and traffic information are also available on mobile devices with Google Maps for Mobile, so commuters and motorists can check the latest updates on their cellphones to make route changes on-the-go.
Today at Siam Square, overlooking one of Bangkok's busiest transportation hubs, Wisit Wongsaroj, Head of the office of Information Technology, Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), Kobkul Mothana, Director-technology information, Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), Arkom Baramichai, Chief Administrative Officer, Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS), Witoon Hatairatana Marketing and Commercial Development Division Director, Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT), Andrew McGlinchey, Head of Product Management, Google Southeast Asia, and Pornthip Kongchun, Thailand Marketing Head, Google Southeast Asia, launched this new service, which can be accessed through Google Maps at maps.google.co.th/transport.
Under this collaboration, Google is the first organization to officially receive bus/train schedules, locations and routes from the BMTA, BTS and MRT. Google also worked with the OTP to integrate live traffic data into the popular and familiar user interface of Google Maps. None of the local partners are incurring any costs for the partnership with Google.
Whether a private car owner switching to go by bus or BTS or MRT, or a public transit rider choosing to drive or take a taxi, or even one of 10 million international visitors Office of Tourism Development, Thailand who land in Bangkok each year finding their way around, the Bangkok public can now use Google Maps to plan their routes and make an informed decision on the quickest and most convenient way to reach their destinations. Each time a Google Maps user requests driving directions, the user will also be given the opportunity to plan the same trip using public transit which is very useful when the traffic route is highlighted as red or heavy congestion.
"Each day, millions of commuters travel the streets of Bangkok using BMTA buses. With the launch of transit information on Google Maps for Bangkok with step-by-step instructions in Thai, it is now even easier to go green and take public transportation around the city. We are delighted to be collaborating with Google and our other local partners to provide residents and visitors in Bangkok a comprehensive, easy-to-use trip planner that links BMTA buses to the rest of the city's other public transit options," said Wisit Wongsaroj, Head of the office of Information Technology, Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA).
"Our office is excited to have worked closely with Google to make it easy for Bangkok motorists to access current traffic conditions on their computers or mobile phones," said Kobkul Mothana, Director-technology information, Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP). "In accordance with our mission to ensure an efficient transportation system in Thailand, we believe that the traffic layer on Google Maps will help drivers in Bangkok save on commuting time and expenses by letting them plan their travel routes in advance or change them on-the-go to avoid congested areas."
"This year marks our 10th anniversary of operations in Bangkok and we are pleased to be joining Google and our other transportation colleagues in announcing the availability of transit information on Google Maps," said Arkom Baramichai, Chief Administrative Officer, Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS). "The train routes and schedules from BTS have been integrated into the transit information on Google Maps to better inform Bangkok commuters about which mode of transportation to use on any given day. We hope that everyone in Bangkok uses the tool in order to make their daily commutes easier."
"Our mission has always been to provide mass transit services to the public that are safe, fast, reliable and punctual. This transit feature integrates MRT data on Google Maps to enhance commuters' experience by making it easy for them to plan their trips across multiple forms of public transit. Whether it's trying to get to the Thai Cultural Center on Rajadapisek road or grabbing a bite to eat at Japanese restaurant near Silom Station, Google Maps will help commuters get to their destinations as quickly as possible," said Witoon Hatairatana Marketing and Commercial Development Division Director, Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT).
"Google's goal is to bring accurate, comprehensive land transport information from OTP, BMTA, BTS and MRT together on a global mapping platform for easy access, search and use on PCs or mobile phones by millions of Bangkok residents and Google Maps users around the world," said Pornthip. “Google is currently the only organization that has combined all the forms of land transportation in Bangkok into one easy-to-use Thai interface. We're very excited to be launching this service today in Bangkok and we hope that residents and visitors to the city, whether they are traveling by foot, bus, train or car will find it helpful in getting to their destinations."
Google Maps for Mobile offers transit, traffic and driving information on-the-go
Google Maps for Mobile extends the dynamic search capabilities of Google Maps to mobile phones, allowing anyone in Thailand to locate addresses and navigate maps while on the go. Google Maps for Mobile also has the My Location feature, which shows your location on the map even if your phone does not have GPS, and lets you look up business listings in relation to where you are (e.g. type "restaurants" into the map search box and it will display nearby restaurants).
When in Bangkok, users can now also use the traffic and transit features in Google Maps for Mobile to plan their travel while on the move. Google Maps for Mobile is free to download on your phone at http://m.google.co.th/maps. It also comes pre-installed on many web-enabled handsets. The services on Google Maps for Mobile are free; however, standard mobile data fees charged by the telecoms carriers will apply.
About Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP)
The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), Ministry of Transport, is responsible for recommending policies and formulating transport, traffic and transport safety plans in line with master plans for policy integration purposes
About Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA)
Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) was established by a Royal Decree Establishing the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, B.E. 2519. Beginning operations the following October, the BMTA undertook to provide bus service to commuters in six provinces, i.e. Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Pathum Thani, Samut Sakhon and Samut Prakan.
About Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS)
BTSC operates one of the safest and most punctual mass transit systems in the region, and plays a crucial role in helping to ease Bangkok’s notorious traffic jams while providing an environmentally friendly transport alternative for Bangkok’s commuters.
About Bangkok Metro Public Company Limited, Metro Operator (MRT)
MRT: safe, fast, convenience, trustworthy, and punctual
About Google Inc.
Google's innovative search technologies connect millions of people around the world with information every day. Founded in 1998 by Stanford Ph.D. students Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Google today is a top web property in all major global markets. Google's targeted advertising program provides businesses of all sizes with measurable results, while enhancing the overall web experience for users. Google is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.google.co.th.
Google and Google AdWords are registered trademarks of Google Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.
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