United Airlines parent UAL Corp. reported third-quarter net income of US$334 million, up 75.8 per cent from$190 million a year earlier. The carrier said it will continue to maintain “discipline in capacity planning” as it implements a five-year strategic plan that focuses on its “core business”. This includes the possible sale of noncore businesses such as its Mileage Plus frequent-flier program. “US airlines have consistently destroyed value,” … [Read more...] about AMERICAS: UAL’s net income jumps 75%

Airlines that have used fare hikes as buffers against $80-per- barrel oil prices could see that protection erode as their ability to raise fares grows weaker, according to ratings agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P). In a recent report S&P said: “Even though carriers were able to pass through higher fuel costs by raising fares in the domestic market during 2005 and 2006 -- and can still do so in many international markets – pricing flexibility has been squeezed.” S&P … [Read more...] about AMERICAS: More fuel price troubles

Effective 1 October Air Canada is billing forwarders and shippers who do not return ULDs (unit load devices) within five days. The daily demurrage charges range from US$6 to $75. Prior to removing a unit from an Air Canada Cargo terminal, drivers have to sign a ULD control receipt, which has to be handed in when the unit is returned to the carrier. The drivers also sign that the unit is in good condition. Severely damaged ULDs incur charges that range from $15 for missing or damaged straps … [Read more...] about AMERICAS: Air Canada slaps fee on late ULD return

A Cnd $200,000 report, commissioned by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, makes a case that Canada’s Atlantic region should be further developed as an entry point into North American markets for goods and services from global markets, in particular, China, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. “The business case report makes it very clear that if Canada is to capture increased trade opportunities, we need to position ourselves to capitalize on the projected increased … [Read more...] about AMERICAS: Case for Atlantic Canada hub

Hoping to emulate the success of Los Angeles International Airport’s lucrative cargo business Arizona businessmen and officials plan to turn Williams Gateway Airport into an international cargo hub. Williams Gateway, which became Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport on 15 October, is being positioned as a potential international player for direct-air freight deliveries to and from international markets, according to the Arizona Republic. To enhance creation of the airport’s … [Read more...] about AMERICAS: New Arizona cargo hub