The Airways Podcast

In this episode of the Airways Podcast, hosts Helwing Villamizar and Rohan Anand engage with Hooman Yazhari, partner in Michelman & Robinson's restructuring and corporate practice group, to discuss the current state of the aviation industry, particularly in light of recent tariff changes and the challenges faced by airlines like Spirit Airlines. Hooman Yazhari helps businesses navigate transformational moments, having led global enterprises from distressed to great. He has over 25 years of executive and board leadership experience, bringing a business-first and holistic perspective to complex legal matters.The conversation delves into the intricacies of airline operations, the influence of consumer perception on brand value, and the future of aviation in terms of sustainability and innovation. Yazhari shares insights on the cultural differences in bankruptcy processes across regions and emphasizes the importance of leadership in navigating the industry's challenges. The episode concludes with predictions for the future of aviation and reflections on the industry's resilience and potential for growth.Saily: Affordable eSIM data for international travelStay connected wherever your travels take you with Saily's convenient eSIM data plans. No more hunting for local SIM cards or dealing with expensive roaming charges.Summer deal: Save 5% off your first purchase with code AIRWAYSMAG5, plus earn up to 5% cashback in Saily credits on all plans!Discover the All-New Airways DigitalAirways Digital provides readers with the flexibility to access North America's leading commercial aviation magazine anytime, anywhere. Check out the new free previewer web app today!Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMedia: American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier, Allegiant, Airbus, and Boeing. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Airways podcast, hosts Rohan Anand-Mahajan, Vinay Bhaskara, and Helwing discuss the recent labor strikes at Air Canada, the implications for the airline industry, and the financial distress faced by Spirit Airlines. They explore the dynamics of labor relations, the impact of strikes on brand reputation, and the competitive landscape of the airline market. The conversation also touches on the cyclical nature of the airline industry, highlighting how airlines navigate challenges and opportunities in a post-pandemic world.TakeawaysLabor relations in Canada are more robust compared to those in the US.The strike impacted thousands of passengers and had brand implications.Air Canada is a dominant player in the Canadian market.Spirit Airlines is in financial distress and may not survive the year.The airline industry is cyclical, with periods of boom and bust.US legacy carriers have improved their competitive positioning against ULCCs.Labor grievances are heightened in profitable airlines post-pandemic.Airlines are navigating staffing and operational challenges.The future of Spirit Airlines remains uncertain amidst market changes.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Air Canada Strikes01:40 Impact of Labor Actions on Air Travel09:20 Air Canada's Position in the Market13:02 Flight Attendant Contracts and Labor Relations18:58 The Cyclical Nature of the Airline Industry28:10 Transition to Spirit Airlines' Financial Distress35:33 The Evolution of Airline Business Models39:04 The Competitive Landscape of Low-Cost Carriers41:53 Mergers and Acquisitions in the Airline Industry44:38 The Future of JetBlue and United47:24 Current Trends in the Airline Industry50:34 The Role of Leadership in Airline Success54:58 Reflections on the Airline Industry's FutureSaily: Affordable eSIM data for international travelStay connected wherever your travels take you with Saily's convenient eSIM data plans. No more hunting for local SIM cards or dealing with expensive roaming charges.Summer deal: Save 5% off your first purchase with code AIRWAYSMAG5, plus earn up to 5% cashback in Saily credits on all plans!Discover the All-New Airways DigitalAirways Digital provides readers with the flexibility to access North America's leading commercial aviation magazine anytime, anywhere. Check out the new free previewer web app today!Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMedia by Air Canada, Spirit Airlines, and Alexandre Henry Alves via Pexels This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In the first episode of season 9 of the Airways podcast, hosts Rohan Anand, Vinay Bhaskara, and producer Helwing Villamizar discuss the importance of mental health in aviation in light of the recent incidents affecting Air India and the broader implications of geopolitics on air travel. They delve into the stigma surrounding pilot mental health, the ripple effects of aviation disasters, and speculate on Delta Air Lines' potential future with the Boeing 787.Topics* Mental Health in Aviation* Recent Aviation Incidents and Their Impact* Pilot Mental Health: A Growing Concern* The Role of Social Media in Aviation Safety Perception* Air India: A Love Letter to the Past and Future* Crisis Management in Aviation* The Future of Air India and Its Challenges* Tata Group and Singapore Airlines: A Broader Perspective* Corporate Responsibility and Community Support* The Allure of Aviation and Travel* Geopolitical Impacts on Air Travel* Emerging Routes and Market Dynamics* Cargo and Economic Factors in Aviation* Delta's Fleet Strategy and Future PlansSaily: Affordable eSIM data for international travelStay connected wherever your travels take you with Saily's convenient eSIM data plans. No more hunting for local SIM cards or dealing with expensive roaming charges.Summer deal: Save 5% off your first purchase with code AIRWAYSMAG5, plus earn up to 5% cashback in Saily credits on all plans!Discover the All-New Airways DigitalAirways Digital provides readers with the flexibility to access North America's leading commercial aviation magazine anytime, anywhere. Check out the new free previewer web app today!Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMedia by Michael Rodeback, Aner Ortiz De Zarate, Brandon Farris, and Johan Ljungdahl, Pixabay This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In season 6, episode 2 of the Airways Podcast, before we get to the main topics, we share our experiences flying on United’s CRJ550 and the new Airbus A321neo. We also discuss Delta’s A321neo, which is stylish but lacks practicality in seating and storage space. Finally, we give mixed reviews on Delta’s overall performance due to delays and operational inefficiencies, particularly at Boston Logan, and praise United’s domestic performance for consistency and comfort.Main TopicsAlaska-Hawaiian Airlines Merger* Despite recent aggressive antitrust policies, DOJ clears the merger after a 90-day review period.* Discussion on potential future regulatory steps, including slot and gate concessions.* Speculation on operational impacts, including how Alaska might handle Hawaiian’s routes and the financial challenges involved.Delta Airlines COO Departure* COO’s exit following Delta’s tech outage raises questions about whether it was a direct result of the incident.* Delta’s operational reliability has slipped post-pandemic, contributing to dissatisfaction.Ethiopian Airlines' New Mega Airport* The announcement of a new airport in Bishoftu, which will open in 2029, is designed to improve capacity and mitigate the operational challenges of Addis Ababa’s high elevation.* The significance of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth and prospects as Africa’s leading airline.Other InsightsReflections on the current state of Southwest Airlines and its inter-island flights in Hawaii.Strategic considerations in the airline industry: balancing growth, mergers, and maintaining operational reliability.Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMusic by Alisia from PixabayEpisode LinksAlaska-Hawaiian Merger Clears DOJ Review PeriodDelta Air Lines COO to Depart Following Tech OutageEthiopian Airlines, Dar to Build Mega Airport City This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In the season six premiere of the Airways Podcast, we explore major seating changes across multiple airlines:1. Southwest Airlines' revolution:* Shift to assigned seating* Impact on the airline’s iconic boarding position model* Introduction of extra legroom seating (approximately 36% of seats)2. IndiGo's new offering:* Launch of "stretch seats" for enhanced passenger comfort3. Spirit Airlines' premium strategy:* Introduction of a new seating product* Aimed at capitalizing on the rising demand for premium travelJoin us as we discuss these significant changes in airline seating strategies and their potential impact on the passenger experience across different carriers.Is this the end of the ULCC model as we know it in the U.S., or is it just another swing from the industry's strategic pendulum?Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMusic by Alisia from PixabayEpisode LinksSouthwest to Offer Assigned, Premium Seats, Redeye FlightsIndiGo Launches 'Stretch' Business Class ProductSpirit Joins the Great Low-Cost-Carrier Reboot This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this season finale, we dive into the latest developments in the aviation industry:1. EU Approves ITA-Lufthansa Tie-Up: The European Union has approved Lufthansa's takeover of ITA Airways, marking a significant step in consolidating the European aviation market.2. Boeing Acquires Spirit AeroSystems: Boeing announced its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, a strategic move to bolster its supply chain and enhance its manufacturing capabilities.3. Cebu Pacific Orders 152 A321neos: Cebu Pacific has ordered 152 Airbus A321neo aircraft, the largest order in the Philippines' history. This significant move underscores the carrier’s commitment to modernizing its fleet and expanding its route network.4. Delta's New JFK DeltaOne Lounge: Delta Air Lines has unveiled its luxurious new DeltaOne lounge at JFK Airport, offering premium amenities and services to enhance the travel experience for its top-tier customers.Tune in to hear expert analysis and insights on these key industry shifts, and stay tuned for season six of the Airways Podcast.Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode LinksEU Approves Lufthansa Group-ITA Airways DealITA Airways will become the fifth network airline deeply integrated within the Lufthansa Group.Boeing Agrees to Acquire Spirit AeroSystemsThe Boeing board has agreed to buy Spirit AeroSystems for US$37.25 per share.Cebu Pacific, Airbus Sign MOU for 152 A321neo JetsCebu Pacific has signed a historic agreement with Airbus for up to 152 Airbus A321neo aircraft.The majesty of an Airbus A380 against a backdrop of cloud-laden skies dominates the scene. This and more will be in the August 2024 issue! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Airways Podcast crew discusses the state of the U.S. airline industry in the first quarter of 2024, which saw mixed financial results for major and regional airlines.While some carriers managed to eke out small operating profits, others suffered significant losses, reflecting the aviation industry's ongoing production challenges and uneven recovery among major operators.Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode LinksSnapshot: US Airlines Q1 2024 Financial PerformanceAirways Shop. Sign up for free and get 10% off This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

Since Generative AI hit the mainstream in early 2023, the airline industry has been researching how to implement the tool into their business models. In fact, according to a recent study, at the end of 2023, nearly 100% of airlines were creating programs to implement generative AI into their operations.Thor Olof Philogène knows this well. As CEO and co-founder of leading insights platform Stravito, Philogène has steered the implementation of generative AI capabilities into the platform to deliver precisely tailored support through a “supercharged search experience” and quicker access to consumer insights and market research for global brands, including one of the world’s largest airlines, Delta Air Lines.Many airlines' heavy reliance on consumer insights, data, and large-scale knowledge management makes them vulnerable to swaying consumer trends. In this episode, Thor argues that all companies would benefit from a generative AI solution tailored to their needs.Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode LinksHow Artificial Intelligence Is Enhancing Air Traffic ControlNew Website: Latest News Page June 2024 Issue of Airways 10% off available at shop.airwaysmag.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Airways Podcast crew returns with full force after tamdem travels to Asia and South America to discuss their trips, followed by Korean Air and Japan Airlines’ aircraft orders, the management shake up at Boeing and United Airlines’ FAA audit.Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode LinksKorean Air Orders 33 Airbus A350 AircraftJapan Airlines Orders 42 New AircraftDave Calhoun to Step Down as Boeing CEO This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In episode seven, season five of The Airways Podcast, join host Vinay Bhaskara and special guest, Indian aviation expert and former President of the Bangalore Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Devesh R. Agarwal, as they delve deep into India Aviation.India's aviation industry is experiencing significant growth. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the country will become the world's third-largest air passenger market by 2030, after China and the United States. This rapid growth in air traffic is supported by various factors, including a rising middle class, increasing government spending, and the expansion and modernization of airports.India's population is expected to increase from 1.3 billion to 1.5 billion by 2030. Currently, aviation penetration in India is only around 4-5% of the population, indicating significant potential for further growth. Consequently, the Indian government is actively investing in the aviation sector by building new airports, expanding existing ones, and improving air traffic management systems. Additionally, World Trade Center Bengaluru recently hosted the World Trade Centers Association’s annual Global Business Forum to expand trade and investment opportunities for businesses worldwide in India’s aviation sector. Over the next five years, around 80 new airports will be opened in India. These initiatives, India’s low-cost carriers, and the country's positive economic factors are just some of the topics you’ll hear in this informative and engaging conversation.Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMusic by Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Video: The Future of Air India—Back to Excellency* Analyzing the 10 Largest Aviation Markets* Indigo Orders 500 Airbus Planes, Becomes Larges Indian Airline* Airways Magazine March 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In episode six, season five of The Airways Podcast, join the crew and special guest, aviation analyst and author Jay Shabat, as they delve deep into the art of analyzing the commercial airline industry. They discuss how external factors impact commercial aviation, the relationship between airlines and local economies, the challenges in building new airports, Delta Air Lines’ fleet strategy, and even try to predict future U.S. hub cities. It's a doozy!Skift senior analyst Jay Shabat has spent nearly 20 years writing for Airline Weekly, an airline industry newsletter he launched after working as an analyst for US Airways and Air France. Shabat co-hosts the Airline Weekly Lounge podcast for Skift Airline Weekly and has authored Glory Lost & Found, a history of Delta Air Lines and American Places, which profiles local economies across the U.S.Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMusic by Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Glory Lost and Found: How Delta Climbed from Despair to Dominance in the Post-9/11 Era* American Places: A Profile of Local Economies Across the U.S.* Airways Magazine March 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In the latest episode of The Airways Podcast, join the crew and special guest Jens Kuhlen, President for North America at Gategroup, as they delve deep into the intricacies of the airline catering industry.Gategroup’s subsidiary, Gate Gourmet (Switzerland, 1992), began as a catering service for Swissair. Over the years, it has grown into a global company with the most comprehensive catering network in the aviation industry. Gate Gourmet specializes in creating exceptional culinary concepts, handling everything from menu design to execution. Present in 33 countries with over 135 units, the company provides reliable and standardized catering provisioning services, ensuring on-time performance for its airline customers and delivering a memorable onboard experience for passengers.Jens Kuhlen joined Gategroup in 2015, initially assuming the role of Vice President of Group Controlling at Gategroup’s Zurich headquarters. He later progressed to the role of Chief Financial Officer for Gategroup’s North American region before being promoted to President of North America in 2022. With a diverse professional history spanning over 25 years, Kuhlen holds a wealth of expertise in airline catering, corporate banking, and restructuring consulting.Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the airline food catering system, as told by an industry expert.Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMusic by Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Gategroup.com* Airways Magazine March 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

The fourth quarter and full year 2023 financial reports from major US airlines provide the crew valuable insights into their performance and the overall state of the aviation industry. American Airlines' Haneda Airport tentative approval and GOL's Chapter 11 Filing are also part of the mix in episode five of the fifth season of the Airways Podcast.The crew also discusses Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico's antitrust immunity ending. The US government announced that it does not plan to renew the immunity granted to Delt and Aeromexico for their codeshare agreement.This decision came after the Mexican government made significant changes at Mexico City International Airport, the country's main hub.What does 2024 hold for these and other airlines?Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* US airlines’ Q4/FY 2023 Financial Results* American’s Tentative Approval for JFK- Haneda Nonstop Flights* GOL Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy* US Cancels Delta-Aeromexico Codeshare Inmunity* Airways Magazine March 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Airways Podcast, the crew delves into the topic of the JetBlue-Spirit merger block and its implications for both airlines. They discuss the potential outcome of the legal battle and how it could shape the future of both carriers. Additionally, they explore the broader implications for the competitive landscape of the U.S. airline industry as a whole.The Legal Battle and Regulatory ApprovalThe JetBlue-Spirit merger has faced significant challenges in obtaining regulatory approval The case is currently in the hands of a Boston judge, and the trial has concluded. The Biden administration's more aggressive enforcement of antitrust laws is evident in this case. The U.S. Justice Department sought a permanent injunction to block the deal, citing concerns about the impact on competition in the industry.Alas, a federal judge blocked the airlines’ proposed merger, siding with the Justice Department. Now, Spirit may face financial difficulties, potentially leading to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing and the liquidation of its assets. As for JetBlue, it would need to pivot, either to restructure to become a full-service airline or else.The airlines have jointly filed a notice of appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. If the merger is allowed, it could reshape the market for low-cost airlines, as Spirit is currently the largest budget carrier in the nation. The disappearance of Spirit Airlines would create opportunities for other low-cost carriers, such as Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air, to expand their market share. On the other hand, if the merger is blocked for good, it could lead to increased competition among the remaining airlines, potentially driving up fares.The competitive environment of the U.S. airline industry is already undergoing significant changes, with the industry facing unique opportunities and challenges in the post-COVID environment. The outcome of this legal battle will contribute to shaping the future of the industry and the strategies of the major players involved.Note: This episode was recorded before the airlines filed their notice of appeal.Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Merger Dispute Escalates: JetBlue and Spirit Appeal* Airways Magazine February 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, hosts Helwing, Rohan, and Vinay are back to discuss what has been an unnerving start of the year for commercial aviation.Japan Airlines A350-900 Crash at Tokyo Haneda AirportOn January 2, 2024, a runway collision occurred at Tokyo Haneda Airport between Japan Airlines Flight 516, an Airbus A350-900, and a De Havilland Canada Dash 8 operated by the Japanese Coast Guard.Flight 516 was a scheduled domestic passenger flight from New Chitose Airport near Sapporo, Japan, to Haneda Airport in Tokyo.The collision resulted in a fire and tragically killed five of the six crew members onboard the Dash 8. However, all 367 passengers and 12 crew members on the A350 were safely evacuated with no loss of life.Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 Door Plug Blowout and the State of BoeingOn January 5, 2024, there was an incident involving an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9, where a door plug blew out mid-air during a flight from Portland, Oregon.As a result, nearly 200 planes were grounded, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched an investigation into the incident.Helwing, Rohan, and Vinay discuss the incident and the implications for Boeing, highlighting the importance of quality control to ensure the safety and reliability of aircraft components.The incident raises concerns about the potential vulnerabilities and hidden weak spots in Boeing’s manufacturing practices that could pose risks to passenger safety.Delta Air Lines Second Airbus A350-1000 OrderThe crew ends the episode by briefly discussing Delta’s recent order for 20 more Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.This order reflects the carrier’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet and enhance its long-haul capabilities with the wide-body, twin-engine aircraft known for their fuel efficiency, range, and passenger comfort.Note: The podcast episode may contain additional discussions, insights, and opinions related to these topics.Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Japan Airlines 516 Crash: What We Know So Far* NTSB Update: All 12 Door Plug Stops Failed, Leading to Blowout* FAA Updates on the Grounding of Boeing 737-9 Aircraft* Delta Air Lines Places Second A350-1000 Order* Airways Magazine February 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

The Season 5 premiere of The Airways Podcast features an informative conversation between Airways’ Chris Smith and Olov Lindström, the Norse Atlantic Airways (N0) Fleet Chief Pilot and the first person to captain a Boeing 787 to Antarctica.During the episode, Capt. Lindström takes us on a deep dive into the special preparations necessary to make the flight to Antarctica as safe as possible.On November 15, 2023, N0 achieved the first-ever landing of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Antarctica. Landing at Troll Airfield (QAT), the aircraft, designated 'Everglades', was a Boeing 787-9 registered LN-FNC.With the Norwegian Polar Institute and Aircontact, Scandinavia's largest airbroker firm, flight N0787 transported 12 tons of essential research equipment, including 45 scientists, to the remote Troll research station in Queen Maud Land, Antarctica.So fasten your seatbelts, grab your headsets, and prepare for an unforgettable season as we comment on the world of commercial flight, uncovering the untold stories and behind-the-scenes operations that shape the skies above.Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosPhoto: Erik Moen, Norse Atlantic AirwaysEpisode Links* An Antarctic Adventure: Interview with Captain Olov Lindström* Norse Atlantic Achieves First-ever Boeing 787 Landing in Antarctica* Video: First Boeing Dreamliner Lands in Antarctica* Airways Magazine February 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this last episode of season 4 of the Airways Podcast, hosts Helwing, Rohan, and Vinay discuss their bold and not-so-bold predictions for what’s to come in 2024 for our beloved commercial aviation industry.We also want to thank all our listeners for their support and the time they've spent listening to our podcast in 2023. Your feedback and engagement have been invaluable to us, and we can’t wait to begin season 5.We look forward to bringing you more captivating episodes and exploring the fascinating world of commercial aviation with you in 2024.Just a note to remind our listeners that we have decided to make all our premium content freely available to all our listeners. We believe that everyone should have access to our AV geeky content.To support the Airways Podcast, we encourage you to consider subscribing to our monthly or yearly subscription. By subscribing, you not only help us cover our costs but also enable us to invest in new equipment and research and bring you even more exciting guests and informative episodes.Your support will directly contribute to the growth and sustainability of our podcast, and your contribution, big or small, will make a significant difference in helping us continue to produce quality aviation content for you and our growing community.Happy New Year from the Airways Podcast team!Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Airways Magazine January 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this second episode on the Alaska-Hawaiian merger, Helwing, Vinay, and Rohan take another look at Alaska Air Group's plans to buy Hawaiian Airlines, in what could be the next instance of consolidation among US airlines.The crew discusses how, over the past ten years, Hawaiian has undergone significant changes in its long-haul network. They also talk about how Southwest made a notable entrance into the Hawaiian Islands and how Alaska Airlines took over and subsequently discontinued some routes previously operated by Virgin America.Finally, they consider how Alaska Airlines had codeshare agreements with various airlines both before and after its entrance into the oneworld alliance, how the merger between Alaska Airlines and Virgin America faced scrutiny, and how there were concerns about potential slot divestments, specifically in airports such as JFK or HND.We also have some exciting news to share with you today!Starting now, we have decided to make all our premium content freely available to all our listeners. We believe that everyone should have access to our AV geeky content.While we are thrilled to provide this opportunity for everyone to enjoy our podcast, we kindly ask for your support in a different way. Running a podcast requires time, effort, and resources, and we want to continue bringing you the best aviation content possible.To support the Airways Podcast, we encourage you to consider subscribing to our monthly or yearly subscription. By subscribing, you not only help us cover our costs but also enable us to invest in new equipment and research and bring you even more exciting guests and informative episodes.Your support will directly contribute to the growth and sustainability of our podcast, and your contribution, big or small, will make a significant difference in helping us continue to produce quality aviation content for you and our growing community.We genuinely appreciate your support and the time you've spent listening to our podcast. Your feedback and engagement have been invaluable to us, and we are excited to embark on this new chapter together.Thank you again for being an incredible part of our aviation journey. We look forward to bringing you more captivating episodes and exploring the fascinating world of commercial aviation with you.Fly high, and stay tuned!Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Alaska Air Group Purchasing Hawaiian Holdings* Airways Magazine January 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this quick episode, Vinay and Rohan discuss Alaska Air Group's surprise Sunday announcement of its plans to buy Hawaiian Airlines, in what could be the next instance of consolidation among US airlines.The Seattle-based airline group will purchase Hawaiian Holdings for US$18 per share in a deal valued at US$1.9 billion, including Hawaiian's debt.This merger is unique in that both airlines will continue to operate under separate brands, though their frequent flyer programs will be combined. Alaska is the sixth-largest airline in the US by seats, while Hawaiian is the tenth-largest.Combined, Alaska and Hawaiian would be the fifth largest carriers, only behind American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, unless the DOJ approves the jetBlue-Spirit merger first.How are these two mergers different? Be sure to leave your comments here on Substack, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* Alaska Air Group Purchasing Hawaiian Holdings* Airways Magazine January 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Vinay and Rohan dive deep into the beginnings of aviation journalism on the internet with special guest TV producer and founder of The Airchive, Chris Sloan. They unravel the story behind theairchive.net, a treasure trove of aviation-related documents and memorabilia that serves as an online archive for both educational and entertainment purposes.Chris and the crew share their insights and experiences, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of digital aviation journalism through anecdotes and engaging storytelling, highlighting how Sloan then transformed his love for commercial aviation into a digital archive with over 60 items and counting.They delve into the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments that shaped the industry, ultimately paving the way for the vibrant aviation community we know today. Be sure to join along at the end of the episode for fun-packed trivia!Hosted by: Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay BhaskaraProduced by: Helwing VillamizarMusic: Fesliyan StudiosEpisode Links* TheAirchive.net* Airways Magazine January 2024 Issue This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe