BEIJING — A Long March 3C rocket launched the fourth satellite in China’s Compass positioning system on June 2. When complete, the system should have 35 satellites, 10 of which were due to be launched in 2009 and 2010. A Long March 3C was also used in January to launch the third Compass satellite, one of five to be placed in geostationary orbit. Low Earth orbit Compass satellites have been launched by Long March 3As. The first was sent up in 2007, though two experimental spacecraft were put into orbit in 2000.

Thailand's main airport operator is offering incentives and discounts to help airlines and airport businesses that have been hit by domestic political turmoil. Airports of Thailand says airlines operating at Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang airports will enjoy a 15% discount on landing fees from April to December, up from the 10% discount given before that. Aircraft parking fees will be cut by 50%, compared with a 20% rebate earlier. Cash-strapped airlines will also be granted payment extensions, if necessary.

Air France-KLM has entered into an interline deal with Jetstar, its first such tie-up with a low-cost carrier, enhancing its access to the Asia-Pacific travel market. Jetstar, an offshoot of Australia's Qantas with operating bases in Australia, Singapore and Vietnam, hopes that the partnership will boost its presence in Europe. The alliance will make travel more convenient for passengers of both carriers and offer them even more flight options, said Marnix Fruitema, Air France-KLM senior VP, Asia-Pacific.