Meeting News - February 25, 2008 - (Page 16)

Transportation & Services Delta-Northwest Merger Talks Hint Air Shake-Up No official word, but consolidation looms for airline industry; meeting planners on watch New York—Talks resumed in early February between Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines regarding a potential merger, causing other carriers to enter into discussions. Both airlines would like to finalize a deal this month, but details regarding restructuring and new leadership have yet to be identified. High fuel prices and a shrinking economy are said to be the causes of merger talks within the industry, as airlines look to avoid financial crises similar to those they faced in years past. Both Delta and Northwest filed for bankruptcy in 2005 and consequently restructured their operations. Both emerged from bankruptcy last year. According to industry analysts, a Delta-Northwest merger could lead to higher fares for consumers—and that includes meeting planners—at least in the short term. Reduced service out of hub cities for both airlines, including Delta’s hub in Cincinnati and Northwest’s in Memphis, could spell trouble for planners looking for easy access to and from regional cities. The looming announcement has resulted in more serious discussions between Continental Airlines and United Airlines. According to a New York Times report, Continental’s chief executive, Larry Kellner, said a merger is not preferred, but should the Delta-Northwest deal materialize, it would be something he would have to consider. Even Air Canada is keeping an eye on the U.S. merger talks and considering a similar move—including the possibility of merging with a U.S. airline, according to Reuters. At press time, none of the four U.S. airlines had released an official report, and nothing is certain yet, as any merger deal could face opposition by Congress regarding the anticipated job losses and reduced industry competition that would likely result. Edited by Elizabeth West elizabeth.west@nielsen.com In-Flight Web is Coming New York—Passengers traveling with several airlines will soon access high-speed Internet in flight, making it easier to keep up with e-mails, instant messaging, fast-breaking news, online shopping, and more. Southwest Airlines is among the first to post in-flight Internet plans, testing four trial flights with satelliteenabled wireless broadband Internet, provided by California firm Row 44, this summer. American Airlines plans to install Aircell broadband Internet devices on all 15 of its Boeing 767-200 planes (primarily for transcontinental routes) by year end. Continental Airlines announced plans to offer web service and 36 channels of live television starting in 2009, partnering with LiveTV, a unit of JetBlue Airways. Though Internet access will be complimentary for all Continental customers, TV viewing will be free only to first-class passengers; economy-class riders can tune in for $6. Installation is set to begin on 225 planes next January. “This will soon become a [necessary amenity] for airlines—where if they don’t have it, they will lose. It will determine whether or not someone flies on a specific airline, maybe overshadowing frequent-flier loyalty,” said Terry Trippler, a longtime airline industry consultant.“The airlines come up with a lot of new amenities, but I haven’t seen one until now that will cause people to fly on a certain airline. . . this would.” Trippler says the next step will be bringing airport security up to speed as more people decide to bring laptops aboard flights. “Having everyone open their bags for computer inspection will really slow down security, so the TSA has to be prepared for this,” he said. “Because this is going to be a hot thing.” r —Section written by Emily Carrus www.meetingnews.com Chicago Zoological Society Creates Pavilion Central Brookfield, IL—A collection of four climate-controlled, outdoor event spaces are on schedule for a March 31 opening at Brookfield Zoo. The pavilions are set on 216 acres of landscaped area near the North Gate entrance of the zoo and can accommodate up to 2,000 guests for day or evening events. The Swan Pavilion, the largest of the group (500 seated, 750 reception), has roll-down sides that allow the space to hold functions from early spring through late fall. The Bison and Dragonfly pavilions hold 300 for a reception and 200 seated, while the Peacock Pavilion has a maximum capacity of 120. A full-service kitchen has been included in the design. “The initial response has been very positive,” said Diane Wehrmeister, director of catered events for the Chicago Zoological Society, which operates the zoo. “We already have several functions booked from the first weekend of April through 2009.” ItsEasy.com Takes Aim at Passport & Visa Troubles New York—ItsEasy.com’s emergency passport and visa help desk in Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport is up and running, offering services to passengers in a bind. The help desk offers same-day passport renewals and applications, with photos taken on site, luggage storage for people who have had to reschedule flights, and assistance with visa problems. ItsEasy.com is a New York Citybased company that helps expedite passports and other documents needed for international travel. More ItsEasy.com airport help desks are being planned, though specific details have not been announced. Water features and spacious plazas surround groups at zoo pavilions. 16 MeetingNews February 25, 2008 http://www.ItsEasy.com http://www.ItsEasy.com http://www.ItsEasy.com http://www.ItsEasy.com http://www.meetingnews.com

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