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Cathay Pacific Airways implements cargo software

Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd is implementing JDA Software Group’s Cargo Revenue Optimizer software to help improve profitability in its cargo operation

Freight Transportation Services Index remains flat in December

The Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) was unchanged in December from its November level, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS)

British Airways to receive approval for global alliance

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has proposed to grant antitrust immunity to American Airlines and four international partners, including British Airways, to form a global alliance

WFS wins Air China cargo deal

Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) has won a three-year contract for Air China’s cargo handling at Heathrow Airport

Ryanair to create 200 engineering jobs at Prestwick Airport

Low cost airline Ryanair has announced that it will build a second maintenance hangar at Glasgow Prestwick Airport at a cost of 8 million pounds, creating 200 new engineering jobs

UPS make plans for pilot layoffs

UPS yesterday announced plans to cut at least 300 of its airline pilots, while continuing to find a solution that would avert job losses

Boeing 747-8 maiden flight due today

Today Boeing is to launch the first flight of its new 747-8 Freighter

British Airways reports £50m Q3 loss

British Airways has reported a 50 million pound loss in its third quarter, but warned of record losses to come this year

Ryanair narrows Q3 loss

Low cost airline Ryanair today announced a third quarter loss of 11 million euros, down from a loss of 102 million euros in the same period last year

Prince Rupert records 12 year-high cargo volumes

The Port of Prince Rupert has recorded its highest volume throughput since 1997, handling 12,173,672 tonnes of cargo in 2009, up 15 percent over 2008 volumes

British Airways cabin crew to vote on industrial action

British Airways cabin crew are to vote on strike action today in a dispute about working conditions, pay and staff reductions

AAR reports 2009 carload at lowest level since 1988

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has reported that 2009 saw total carload traffic on U.S. railroads at its lowest levels since at least 1988, when its data series began

Shares in Japan Airlines tumble, investors sell

Japan Airlines could file for bankruptcy as early as next week, prompting a sharp decline in shares as investors rush to sell

BAA’s December traffic down 0.9%

BAA’s six airports handled a total of eight million passengers in December, down 0.9 percent on December 2008 due to weather conditions

WestJet Airlines reports record December load factor

WestJet Airlines has announced December traffic results with a record load factor of 81.7 percent, while revenue passenger miles (RPMs) increased 8.1 percent year over year

Japan Airlines soars as Development Bank doubles credit

Japan Airlines Corp has seen shares surge in Tokyo trading after the government and state-run Development Bank of Japan doubled an existing credit line to 200 billion yen ($2.2 billion)

BA cabin crew may strike in February

British Airways could face strike action in February 2010 as cabin crew prepare for another strike ballot, according to the Observer

Glasgow Airport plans £25m expansion

Glasgow Airport has announced it is to spend 25 million pounds on upgrades to improve facilities and site access

Airlines expect significant losses in 2010, says IATA

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has revised its financial outlook for 2010 to an expected global net loss of $5.6 billion, but added “the worst is likely behind us”

EasyJet cuts capacity by 20%

Low cost airline EasyJet has announced that it is to pull out of East Midlands Airport and will cut capacity by 20 percent at London’s Luton Airport

London City Airport undertakes investment programme

London City Airport is to embark on a multi-million pound investment programme to expand capacity, improve punctuality and enhance services and security

Norfolkline set to carry 800,000 cars in 2009

Ferry operator Norfolkline continues to buck the downturn as it looks set to carry 800,000 cars this year between Dover and Dunkirk, with two and a half million passengers carried

Senator to call for regulations on frequent flyer programmes

Senator Charles Schumer has called for the Department of Transportation to impose regulations on frequent flyer programmes for commercial airlines

Ryanair adds aircraft and new routes

Irish airline Ryanair has announced that it will add one new Boeing 737-800 aircraft and will open new routes from Bristol Airport, investing an additional $210 million

Ryanair 737-800 aircraft. Source: Abutcher15

EasyJet full-year profit plunges as fuel costs increase

Low cost airline EasyJet has reported that full-year profit fell 64.5 percent to 43.7 million pounds, driven by increased fuel costs and lower interest income.

EADS reports 77% decline in Q3 earnings

Airbus owner, EADS, has recorded a loss of 87 million euros in the third quarter as the weak U.S. dollar hit results.

Freightliner takes delivery of PowerHaul locomotives

Freightliner Group Ltd has taken delivery of the first PowerHaul locomotives which are set to provide greater hauling capacity.

Aer Lingus reports 9.7% decline in revenues

Irish airline Aer Lingus has reported that revenues fell 9.7 percent in the third quarter, while short-haul passenger numbers rose 7 percent to 3.08 million.

British Airways record loss prompts cabin crew cuts

British Airways has reported a record loss of 292 million pounds in the six months to September 30, as cabin crew at the airline decide to proceed with a strike vote.

Continental Airlines switches to new airline alliance

Houston-based Continental Airlines has moved from SkyTeam, led by Delta and Air-France KLM, to Star Alliance following year-long talks.

British Airways reluctant to give up Heathrow slots

British Airways has played down concerns that it may be forced to give up slots at Heathrow Airport in order to gain approval for its alliance with American Airlines and Spain’s Iberia.

BAA sells Gatwick for £1.5bn to investment fund

BAA has confirmed that it is selling Gatwick Airport for 1.51 billion pounds to Global Infrastructure Partners, the proceeds of which will be used to pay off debt.

Amtrak passenger numbers decline

Amtrak has reported that annual ridership on its passenger trains fell 5 percent in the 12 months to September 30 as business travel slumped.

Amtrak's Northbound Silver Star heading to New York

UPS launches carbon neutral program for shippers

UPS has become the first small package carrier to offer customers the ability to offset the carbon dioxide emissions generated by the transportation of packages within the U.S.

Aer Lingus is to axe up to 700 jobs

Irish airline Aer Lingus is to cut almost 700 jobs in a cost-cutting drive that will see it save 97 million euros a year by 2011.

Port of Tacoma expansion plans cancelled

The development of a 168-acre terminal on Blair Peninsula in the Port of Tacoma has been cancelled, port officials announced, due to the possible $1.2 billion price tag.

EU issues concerns over British Airways' antitrust immunity bid

British Airways has been issued a list of objections by EU regulators regarding its proposed bid to gain antitrust immunity in a venture with Spain’s Iberia airline and American Airlines.

FedEx Freight head Duncan to retire

FedEx Corp has announced that Douglas G. Duncan, head of FedEx Freight, is retiring effective February 28.

Airlines pledge to halve emissions by 2050

International airlines have set a target to halve carbon emissions by 2050 as environmentalists call for higher taxes on flights.

100% cargo scanning “unreasonable”, say shippers

The goal of 100 percent cargo scanning is unreasonable and impractical, representatives of the shipping industry said today.

American Airlines raises $2.9bn in financing

American Airlines has raised $2.9 billion in cash, amid a series of financing deals with General Electric and Citigroup, allaying fears that the carrier was on the verge of filing for bankruptcy.

TSA implements cargo screening program

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced an interim final rule implementing the Certified Cargo Screening Program (CCSP).

Transport Capital Partners survey suggests recession nearing end

A quarterly survey conducted by Transport Capital Partners has revealed that the trucking industry may have seen the “bottom” of the recession, according to Logistics Management.

North American railroad companies see volumes improve

Three of the top railroad companies in North America said they had observed signs of recovery following a period of steep decline in freight volumes.

EasyJet cuts 20% of flights putting jobs at risk

The budget airline EasyJet is to cut up to 360 flights a week from Luton airport as its focus turns to more profitable continental airports.

Maersk plans large stock sale

Shipping line A.P. Moller-Maersk is to use the proceeds of a DKr9.2 billion ($1.8 billion) share placing to “pursue strategic opportunities”.

Moller-Maersk reports $540m loss

Danish container shipping company A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S has reported a $540 million six month net loss as it felt the full impact of the global economic crisis.

WestJet Airlines to reduce capacity, earnings plummet

Canadian WestJet Airlines Ltd has reported a 66 percent drop in second quarter earnings, prompting it to reduce its capacity growth expectations for the rest of 2009.

Europe's top port expands despite drop in cargo

From queuing barges and traffic jams to falling cargo volumes and quieter terminals, Rotterdam worker Johan Blinde has seen a struggle with overload at Europe's biggest port turn into a fight for business.

The newly-built Euromax Container Terminal in the Europort in Rotterdam

Global shipping firms cut services in recession

Trade at international ports is expected to fall more than 10 percent this year, forcing a group of international shipping companies to cut services between Australia and Asia.

Kuehne + Nagel secures new contract with Vizada VSAT

Vizada VSAT has selected Kuehne + Nagel to provide a range of logistics solutions for its satellite communications equipment in the U.S., Europe and Asia.

Newquay Airport receives grant for expansion project

The European Commission funding will help the airport increase passenger capacity by 400 percent

The European Commission has granted $34.1 million for the Newquay Cornwall International Airport project.

New California regulations will reduce emissions from ocean-going vessels

Toxic particulate matter is expected to be reduced by 13 tons a day from the environmental measures

California is requiring all ocean-going vessels within 24 nautical miles of the state to use cleaner burning diesel fuel.

Second phase contracts issued for Tyne and Wear metro improvements

The agreement spans three years with the possibility for a two-year extension

Contracts have been issued for the second phase of the Metro Asset Renewal Plan.

Baker earns contract for Pittsburgh’s Veterans/Crosstown Boulevard Bridge Preservation project

The Michael Baker Corporation engineering unit will provide a full range of services

Michael Baker Jr., Inc., will be working on the SR 579 Veterans/Crosstown Boulevard Bridge Preservation Project.

Australian transport department commissions AUD $170-plus in road projects

The upgrades to Queensland roadways will improve safety, reduce congestion

More than AUD $170 million in road projects have been commissioned in Queensland.

STX Canada Marine and Roadships Holding partner on project

STX Canada’s new vessel design will mark a new generation of coastal marine transportation

STX Canada Marine is contracting with Roadships Holding to design a new vessel.

Atlas World Group acquires Smart Move, sells Vanpac International

Atlas will make small shipment transport easier as well as increase its UK market

Atlas World Group has acquired Smart Move, a household relocation service, and sold Vanpac International.

TNT expands its services in central China

The global delivery company will cut delivery times and costs with the regional location

TNT is strengthening its road distribution network in central China.

Canada and EU in talks for economic and trade agreement

More free trade could add as much as $12 billion to the Canadian economy

Canada and the EU are in talks for a bilateral economic and trade agreement.

Air Transport Services Group creates new service

ATSG is providing more international offerings to clients

Air Transport Services Group is expanding international services, including to Australia and New Zealand, through its subsidiaries.

Home Delivery Network expands service

HDNL’s commercial transport model will consolidate shipments for cost, environmental benefits

Home Delivery Network Limited has added a commercial transport model.

PODS forms Rapid Response Team

A leading moving and storage company, PODS is prepared for summer’s severe weather

PODS has formed a Rapid Response Team in time for the hurricane and extreme weather season.

Cuba Travel Services to launch LA to Cuba flights

The weekly route is in response to lifted restrictions on Cuban Americans

Cuba Travel Services will offer non-stop flights from LA to Cuba starting June 30.

Niton Equipment benefits from APC Overnight

The system has boosted Niton’s first-time delivery success of sensitive materials for police, security services

Niton Equipment Limited has increased its service levels with APC Overnight.

Freight Transport Association to hold Cutting Carbon, Cutting Costs conference

The FTA will share ways to meet CO2 targets and save money in the UK’s transport industry

The FTA will hold a Cutting Carbon, Cutting Costs conference in June.

Paragon offers upgrade in routing software

With its new system, companies can receive more realistic road speeds and better predict travel times

GT Nexus partners with Overseas Shippers Association for integrated solutions

OSA will have an automated freight spend life-cycle through a single Web-based platform

GT Nexus will provide a Web-based platform for Overseas Shippers Association.

Natasha Boyden earns top awards in the marine industry

The Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. managing director has received continual recognition for her work

Natasha Boyden of Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. has won several awards for her work in the marine industry.

Cranleigh Freight Services Ltd. receives contract renewal

CFS will continue to provide services for long-time partner Martinair Holland NV

American Science and Engineering renews contract with European customs agency

AS&E will supply service and maintenance for cargo X-ray inspection systems on a 24/7 basis

American Science and Engineering has been granted a contract renewal from a European customs agency.

Transplace and Dole Food Company to partner on engagement

The solutions provider will continue its history of supplying transportation technology for Dole

Transplace will provide Dole Food Company with transportation sourcing in North America.

OSG appoints Captain Ian T. Blackley Senior VP of Overseas Shipholding Group

Blackley has nearly two decades of experience working at the energy transportation company

In his new role, Blackley will manage OSG's 94 crude oil tankers, product carriers and LNG vessels that trade worldwide.

National Train Day is May 9

Railways are asking Congress for more funding to meet the rising travel demand

National Train Day commemorates the completion of the nation's first transcontinental railroad.

GE Transportation provides LOCOTROL® system to CNR

The technology will allow for decreased yard movements and increased network velocity

GE Transportation has provided CN Railways with LOCOTROL at its Johnson Yard in Memphis, TN.

KCS adds intermodal train service to Puerta México terminal

Additional facility services will double intermodal capacity and reduce congestion in Mexico’s Central Valley

Kansas City Southern has added intermodal train service to a new facility in Toluca, México.

British Airways to offer free flights to SMEs

The initiative is aimed at stimulating the economy and creating future business

British Airways will be giving away a maximum 5,000 return flights to smaller businesses to help increase exports.

The Halifax-Dartmouth Bridge Commission: Making smart moves

With a sharp focus on economic and environmental sustainability, the HDBC looks toward a bright horizon

American Science and Engineering, Inc. receives $4.4 million contract with US government

AS&E will provide X-ray system service and maintenance to support counterterrorism efforts

American Science and Engineering, Inc. has received a $4.4 million order from the US government.

Pricelock and Wright Express team up

Wright Express customers will have more budget control and price protection

Pricelock and Wright Express have partnered to expand fuel price options for Wright's customers.

Musket/Melburn Transport

Musket/Melburn Transport is using its technological innovations to enter a brave new world of managing cargo transport

Ontario Ministry of Transportation: Keeping a growing province moving

Deputy Minister Bruce McCuaig explains how this agency goes about managing an expansive highway system and much more

Ontario has 16,525 kilometres of highway, enough to span Canada twice.

US Airways restarts Charlotte-Paris service

After an eight-year hiatus, US Airways has three European routes from NC with plans to expand to South America

US Airways has restarted its Charlotte to Paris route.

GE’s L250 engine family receives ABS certification

Based on GE’s V250 platform, the products meet EPA Tier II standards

GE Marine's L250 engine family has been approved by the American Bureau of Shipping.

GreenChek Technology to complete UK installations

The company’s hydrogen-based systems support reduction of emissions, fuel costs

GreenChek Technology provides systems to reduce fuel costs and emissions.

Travelocity predicts unusually-low airfare rates for Memorial Day weekend

Domestic and international flights are lower in cost than three years ago

Travelocity's latest data shows low rates for Memorial Day travel.

AirWard to produce thermal resistant containers

AirWard is the first company to meet new Department of Transportation requirements

AirWard will provide the DOT with new thermal resistant containers that can safely ship compressed oxygen.

ExelTech Aerospace Inc.: World-renowned service

This Montreal MRO company has a niche in the aviation market with regional craft and lines, continually expanding its facilities and capabilities

ExelTech Aerospace Inc. provides world-renowned service.

Chicago unveils first electric vehicle charging station

The solar-powered fuel site is in step with the growing renewable energy trend

Chicago has introduced its first solar-powered charging station for electric vehicles.

Guggenheim Aviation Partners hires new Senior Technical Director

Frederic Pralus will oversee GAP’s expanding fleet of new and used Airbus and Boeing aircraft

Frederic Pralus has been hired as Guggenheim Aviation Partners' Senior Technical Director. (AP photo)

Florida seaports continue to generate jobs, revenue for state

The seaports had record numbers in international trade last year

Florida's seaports continue to generate job growth and revenue for The Sunshine State.

Hopscotch Air made available to everyday travelers

A high-tech air limo service, Hopscotch Air will allow customers to avoid the hassles of regular flights

Hopscotch Air has been approved by the FAA to make its air limo service available to more customers.

LAX to expand refrigeration for South American flower shipments

By increasing space, LAX will enhance the local market and reduce shipping costs

LAX is expanding its refrigeration capabilities for imported flowers.

Utah Department of Transportation:

Deputy Director Carlos Braceras tells ExecDigital how UDOT achieves its mission of providing the foundation for economic development and quality of life

IEEE to develop tamper-proof feature on black box device

The IEEE 1616™ will prevent data tampering, VIN theft and odometer fraud

IEEE is amending its technology for its black box technology.

Rapiscan Systems to supply UK with screening machines at entry points

Based in California, Rapiscan will upgrade older technology and increase security

Rapiscan Systems, Inc., will provide its security inspection system for the UK's strategic entry points.

AeroMexico introduces Mexico City to Montreal route

The new service is part of AeroMexico’s strategic plan for expansion in North America

AeroMexico has started a Mexico City to Montreal flight service.

TomTom GO 740 LIVE technology released in US

The latest from Amsterdam’s TomTom features best routing technology and real-time traffic reports

TomTom has released its first connected service, TomTom GO 740 LIVE.

Go Transit and Metrolinx to merge

The Ontario government will move quickly to improve public transportation through the measure

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, left, and Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty during a February press conference about transit improvements. (Reuters)

EMCOR Group subsidiary to install street lights for NYC DOT

Welsbach Electric will add energy-efficient installations to several boroughs

EMCOR Group subsidiary Welsbach Electric will install 83,000 lights for the NYC DOT.

Car manufacturers plan to install obstacle detection systems

Toyota, Hyundai and other dealers are making the move ahead of Intelligent Transportation Systems development

Car manufacturers are installing radar detection technology to increase both driver and pedestrian safety.

Global CFS to operate US Customs/Border Protection station

Based in the Port of Chicago, Global CFS will focus on a quick turnaround for cargo examinations

Global CFS, Inc. will operate the US Customs and Border Protection Centralized Examination Station for a five-year contract.

Supply Chain Security & Loss Prevention Council, Safety Management Council formed

Created through restructuring the Safety & Loss Prevention Management Council and Security Council of the ATA, the councils hope to expand abilities

Supply Chain Security & Loss Prevention Council and the Safety Management Council have been formed to meet the industry's needs.

New orders increased for manufactured durable goods

Commerce Department reports February’s rise followed a six-month decline

February's orders for manufactured durable goods increased by $5.5 billion.

DHL Forwarding appoints Michael Schaecher to oversee air freight

Predecessor Victor Mok to head DHL Supply Chain expansion in China

Michael Schaecher will head air freight for DHL Global Forwarding.

USF Holland closing centers to optimize operations in current economy

The LTL carrier and YRC Worldwide subsidiary has set a deadline for the end of the first quarter

USF Holland will close 11 regional service centers by the end of the first quarter.

BNSF and CSX Intermodal expand locations further into Southeast

The railroad carriers will add new locations for intermodal container services

BNSF Railway Company and CSX Intermodal will soon reach more Southeast locations.

Bills could install tolls for Washington State bridge and interstate

The move would raise money for transportation projects along the Route 520 corridor

Washington State's 520 floating bridge may have tolls as soon as 2010 to fund transportation projects.

Missouri Department of Transportation: Taking the high road

On a mission to “delight” citizens, the Missouri DOT continues toward a goal of world-class transportation

Missouri DOT aims to create a world-class transportation experience within the state, increasing prosperity.

Southeastern Freight Lines expands Alabama services

The entire state will be provided with direct service from Southeastern Freight Lines

Southeastern Freight Lines has expanded its regional less-than-truckload direct service to the entire state of Alabama.

STB grants permission for Pan Am Southern project

Pan Am Railways and Norfolk Southern have formed Pan Am Southern to improve rail freight service and capacity

The Pan Am Southern project is expected to kick off in early May.

Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach eliminating shifts

The total volume between the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports has dropped significantly amidst the economic crisis

The Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach will be eliminating shifts in the face of declining cargo volumes.

Averitt Express increasing coverage to four new states

The company will offer quick response to localized demand

Heartland Express: Staying disciplined

Through strategic planning, the trucking company has achieved more than $570 million in annual business

Tango Transport: Steady expansion

The carrier is driven to satisfy and has become a respected industry player.

APPS Transport Group

The shipping company has maintained significant growth and, despite the economy, has ambitious goals for 2010.

Cargo screening deadline for 2012 faces obstacles

Homeland Security considers the date premature for the amount of manpower needed.

FORS benchmarking system aims to improve London freight operations

The free system provides information on how to reduce costs and be more environmentally conscious.

Maryland plans to use stimulus money on transportation projects

Maryland governor Martin O'Malley says the State will use the money obtained from the recently passed federal stimulus package for transportation projects

FedEx Freight to cut about 900 jobs

FedEx Freight, a unit of FedEx Corp , said on Monday it will cut about 900 jobs at 130 facilities, citing unprecedented economic conditions and aggressive pricing by carriers.

Federal Express trucks head out for deliveries from a FedEx station in Los Angeles, California June 18, 2008. REUTERS/Fred Prouser

British Airways warns of full year loss

British Airways warned a weak economy and the pound's decline would see it fall into the red in 2008-09, sending its shares down 8.5 percent on Monday.

A British Airways aircraft taxis past BA tail-fins at Heathrow, west London, July 29, 2008. REUTERS/Toby Melville

Ryanair concedes defeat in Aer Lingus bid

Ryanair walked away from its latest bid for rival airline Aer Lingus on Thursday after Ireland's government dismissed it on competition and valuation grounds.

EasyJet sees H1 revenues ahead of guidance

Low-cost airline easyJet said on Thursday its first-half revenues were likely to come in better than it had expected last November, although the outlook for summer bookings was uncertain.

An EasyJet aircraft comes into landing during sunset at East Midlands airport, October 5, 2008. REUTERS/Darren Staples

Southwest posts net loss, sees softness ahead

Southwest Airlines on Thursday reported a quarterly net loss due to one-time charges related to its fuel-hedging program, and said it was seeing softness in bookings for this year as the recession eats away at demand for flights.

Passengers wait at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at Midway Airport in Chicago, Illinois in this July 24, 2008 file photo. The U.S. No.1 low-cost carrier on Thursday reported a quarterly net loss due to one-time charges related to its fuel-hedging program, and said it was seeing softness in bookings for this year as the recession eats away at demand for flights. REUTERS/Jeff Haynes

Forward Air drops Q4 guidance

Forward Air Corp, an air cargo industry contractor, has lowered its fourth quarter expectations because of a slump in its cargo business.

London City airport owner to lodge bid for Gatwick

London City Airport owner Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) will make a bid for Gatwick Airport by a deadline later on Monday, a spokesman for the group told Reuters.

Liberty Shipping unit withdraws $190m offer for ISC

Liberty Shipping Group LLC said yesterday, January 15, its subsidiary Projection LLC has withdrawn its offer to acquire International Shipholding Corp.

BAA claims human rights breach

Airports operator BAA has claimed that plans to break it up would be a breach of human rights law, reports the Financial Times.

Travellers walk past BAA luggage trolleys at Heathrow airport in west London, August 20, 2008. REUTERS/Suzanne Plunkett

Delta eyes 2,000 job cuts via early retirement

Delta Air Lines Inc, which took over rival Northwest Airlines last year, said it expects about 2,000 staff to opt for an early retirement program as it aims to trim capacity as much as 8 percent this year.

Delta Air Lines CEO Richard Anderson speaks during a media briefing in Tokyo January 15, 2009. REUTERS/Toru Hanai

London City airport to bid for Gatwick

The owner of London City airport is to join the list of bidders for Gatwick airport, the Times reported in its Thursday edition, without citing sources.

Alitalia set to bless alliance with Air France-KLM

Alitalia's board was set to approve the sale of a 25 percent stake to Air France-KLM on Monday, formalising a long-awaited partnership that gives the French airline access to a profitable market amid an industry downturn.

An Alitalia jet takes off over another three parked at Fiumicino airport in Rome December 23, 2008. REUTERS/Chris Helgren

Air France-KLM poised to clinch Alitalia alliance

Air France-KLM looked set to seal an alliance with Alitalia as rival Lufthansa backed away from taking a minority stake in the revamped Italian airline on Thursday after a three-month battle.

A KLM aircraft (L) passes by the retired Air France Concorde number 5 on the tarmac of Roissy airport, northern Paris, March 20, 2008. REUTERS/Charles Platiau

Ryanair extends offer period for Aer Lingus bid

Irish airline Ryanair said on Tuesday it had extended the offer period to Aer Lingus shareholders in its 750 million euro ($1.04 billion) takeover bid for its rival. The low-cost carrier had set a closing date of January 5 but said on Tuesday the period had been extended to February 13.

Ground crew are seen parking an Aer Lingus Airbus A320 away from the passenger terminals at Dublin Airport in this June 2, 2002 file photograph. REUTERS/Paul McErlane

Heathrow may get 4.5 billion pound rail hub

The government's plans to expand Heathrow airport could include a new, 4.5 billion pound rail hub as well as a third runway, transport minister Andrew Adonis said in remarks published on Sunday.

Eagle Bulk Shipping suspends dividend

Eagle Bulk Shipping Inc said Friday, December 19, it was suspending its dividend and it plans to cut capital spending by 33 percent.

Qantas says BA merger talks end

Australia's Qantas Airways and British Airways called off talks for a $6.4 billion (4.1 billion pound) merger, leaving the British carrier to consider other combinations with European peers as the sector grapples with falling demand and volatile fuel prices.

A Qantas plane taxis past a British Airways jet at Kingsford Smith International Airport in Sydney December 3, 2008. REUTERS/Daniel Munoz

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