British Airways is the first airline to offer a first-class service between the UK and Moscow, a flight that takes just four hours. I'll get the chance to experience it personally on a return fight in July thanks to my collection of Avios (Airmiles) - a first for me too!
The takeover of BMI is now completed and approved by the European Commission, acquired by IAG (International Airlines Group), parent company of British Airways and Iberia. This means the group will gain 42 slots at London Heathrow, 14 of which will become routes to Scottish destinations and 2 slots leased to Transaero for flights to Moscow.
Oneworld alliance has a new member airline, AirBerlin. This ahead of the opening of the new Berlin Brandenburg Willy Brandt airport on June 3, 2012. The first two flights to simultaneously take off from the parallel runways on June 3rd are AirBerlin and Lufthansa, and will also mark the closing of Berlin Schonefeld and Tegel airports. The new airport has a six track rail station under the terminal building operating an Airport Express to the city centre. Just makes you want to return to the buzzing city of Berlin.
Thai Airways is set to take delivery of six superjumbo A380 aircraft, equipped with On Air's in-flight connectivity services and wifi. It's a long haul to Bangkok and ability to text or email will be a great way to stay connected on route, but how much will it cost?
The new B787 Dreamliner may offer more space in economy, but it all depends on who you fly with. Japan's ANA (All Nippin Airways) will be your best option offering a configuration of 2-4-2 (eight across). A competitive airline industry and a way to keep prices down, Qatar Airlines managed to change the configuration to 3-3-3 (nine across) which will add 120 more economy passengers than ANA airlines, which means other airlines are sure to follow, not great for passengers but good for keeping airlines profitable.
More news to follow, visit Joe Journeys to discover the latest destinations and arrivals.
