The Week In Travel

The number of passengers travelling in premium airline cabins across Europe is up to over 90% of pre-Covid levels, new figures published by IATA have revealed this week. The number of travellers looking to upgrade their flight experience, including both business and first-class passengers, reached 93.1% of 2019 levels in February – up from 56.3% this time last year. IATA noted that “premium traffic has recovered faster than total passenger traffic,” with total passenger numbers reaching 86% of 2019 levels in February.

Across the Atlantic, US-based carrier United Airlines has announced the largest ever network expansion from the USA to Oceania. United’s new flight schedule will make it the only carrier to directly connect the US to the South Island of New Zealand and will include the first ever non-stop flight from San Francisco to Christchurch.

As the Chinese travel industry continues in its recovery, Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has signed an MOU with SF Airlines, which operates the largest cargo air fleet in China. The new partnership will see both carriers operating flights to each other’s hubs from April, enabling Etihad to expand its reach into China and increasing its connectivity in 25 domestic locations across the country.

In sustainability news, the Jet Zero Council, comprised of industry leaders, academics and government figures, has outlined a two-year action plan to steer the UK aviation industry towards net zero by 2050. The plan details how the council will help accelerate the production of SAF through investing in SAF plants, supporting scientific research and helping to lower production costs.

And finally, anyone looking for the perfect selfie for their Insta feed best stay clear of one particular location in the Italian Riviera. The fishing village of Portofino has introduced ‘no-waiting’ zones in some of its most picturesque spots, and anyone caught stationary taking a selfie could be handed a fine of up to €275. According to the Mayor of Portofino, the actions were necessary as selfie takers had been causing ‘anarchic chaos’ in the area. Is one photo worth that price tag? I can’t picture myself risking it…