Adrian is Auckland bureau chief for Aviation Week, based in New Zealand. He covers commercial aviation in the Asia-Pacific region.
Adrian was previously based in Aviation Week’s Washington office for nine years, writing for a range of the group’s publications and covering many aspects of the commercial aviation industry. He has won Australasian and international awards for his aviation writing.
Prior to joining Aviation Week in 2002, Adrian covered aviation industry and policy issues for two other publishing companies in Washington. He has also worked for newspapers in Texas and New Zealand, covering a wide range of topics. Adrian graduated from Auckland University with a degree in history and English in 1992.
Air New Zealand says the delivery of new 777-300ERs, beginning in November 2010, gives it the opportunity for another refresh of its long-haul product. Air NZ for the first time will be doing its own design and development of new seating and interior configuration, says CEO Rob Fyfe. Initial designs are expected to be unveiled early next year. Separately, the carrier says it is evaluating replacement options for its narrowbody fleet.
American yesterday revealed plans for a multi-year replacement of its entire reservations and passenger data system, and the new system – to be built by technology giant HP – will be marketed to other carriers. The airline and HP have signed a letter-of-intent for the new passenger service system (PSS), which American is calling Jetstream. A full contract is expected to be finalized by October. Jetstream will replace the existing PSS, which was developed by American and is intended to streamline and expand current capabilities.
Hawaiian Airlines’ pilots say they may ask for a release from mediation unless substantial progress is made in the next session of contract talks. The next session with the National Mediation Board (NMB) is scheduled in mid-October, although the Air Line Pilots Association notes that the parties can still meet without the NMB in September.
