Flash and Zeus by Airlogica

Airlogica is a very popular supplier to the airline industry. Recent changes to GDS pricing are causing even more airlines to analyze their distribution expense, and Airlogica’s Zeus product comes to the rescue. As previously reported, passenger screening has become mandatory and the Flash software by Airlogica accomplishes this with tireless robotic precision.

Court Says No to Amadeus

Amadeus had asked for injunctive relief to stop American Airlines from imposing the $3.50 fee starting September 1st. But, a US Federal Judge in New York denied the request. Meanwhile, Amadeus has promised to reimburse agents for the fees paid to American. That solution is temporary since the GDS hopes to win in other courts or otherwise work out a compromise.

Camel’s Nose Under the Tent

The New York Times is reporting that the US Government wants access to more airline passenger data to support their hunt for terrorists. More erosion of civil liberties is an expected result of this action. Law enforcement authorities plan to dig deep into the PNRs for payment information, complete itineraries, hotel and car bookings, etc. This goes well beyond the current data demands called APIS and would give complete access to all PNRs over a long time period.

Peter Pont Leaves KLM

Peter Pont, a highly regarded airline veteran, has resigned from KLM where he worked for almost 20 years. He leaves after achieving the position of Controller Distribution and with high marks in the management of distribution cost reduction and revenue integrity. Pont has joined Airlogica in the capacity of General Manager for Europe, Middle East and Africa. The software supplier is pleased to offer the skills of such a talented airline executive to its current and future customers.

U.S. Homeland Security

The airline industry has a solution for a U.S. Homeland Security mandate. It is a software robot that constantly scans flights and passenger data looking for critical or missing information. Missing passport or passenger fields are quickly remedied with automatic messaging plus follow up action. KLM has agreed to use Airlogica's Flash software for this very important TSA requirement.

Virgin America Denies Shadow of Foreign Influence

ATW is reporting today that Virgin America is rebutting allegations of a "shadow of foreign influence". We reported here yesterday on the strong credentials of Fred Reid, CEO of Virgin America. But, will he be strong enough to fight these objections while also securing more funds for the delay? Richard Branson is known for being early in his investments, but the trick is in not being too early.

Virgin America is Already Causing Turbulence

Virgin America has yet to launch its operations but it is already giving heartburn to some competitors. Perhaps it because of the track record of Richard Branson, or more likely, the talent of Fred Reid. Reid is one of the most experienced airline executives in the world, having held the top job at Delta Airlines and Lufthansa. Earlier in his career, he worked with the best at American Airlines and Pan Am. Earlier still, he was raised on the smell of jet fuel as an airline brat. His father worked for TWA and the family enjoyed some international postings.