Industry Briefs

Airline Industry Information, May 27, 2003

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2003 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

A powerful earthquake struck northern Japan yesterday (27 May), forcing officials at Tokyo's Haneda airport to suspend services. The length of the airport closure and the number of flights and passengers affected are currently unclear. According to the country's Meteorological Agency the quake measured seven on the Richter scale, about the same strength as the earthquake in the Japanese city of Kobe eight years ago.

Dubai-based airline Emirates is currently holding talks with the Australian government to operate flights on the trans-Tasman route. The airline is also reportedly keen to fly to New Zealand but wants to include a stop-off in at least one Australian city. The Australian government is expected to make a decision on the proposal soon.

The Papakura District Council in New Zealand is expected to soon finalise flight and noise restrictions for the privately-owned Ardmore Airport, following an eight-year debate. The restrictions were demanded after Ardmore residents complained that pilots using the airport are "wealthy playboys who are riding roughshod over the growing rural community". However, the airport is expected to appeal against any restrictions.

On 6 June 2003, Indian airline Air Sahara is planning to launch flights on the Kochi-Mumbai-Delhi route. To celebrate the new service, the carrier is offering special introductory fares of INR5,000. The special fares cover economy travel from Kochi to Mumbai, and are valid for the first 15 days.

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