Start-up Baltia Air Lines plans to configure its Boeing 747 with four seating classes, and offer in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFE&C) to passengers.
The carrier plans to inaugurate weekly service between New York and St. Petersburg, Russia between the fourth quarter of this year and the first quarter of 2010 as it has just executed a final aircraft purchase agreement for one used 747.
Baltia will offer a coach product called Voyager, a premium economy product called Super Voyager, business class and first class, Baltia VP of finance Barry Clare tells ATI.
New York-Eastern European links lack first class seating but Clare contends there is demand for such a product. However, he does not expect all 12 of Baltia's first class seats to be occupied on every flight.
First class passengers will have lie-flat seats and exclusive access to the aircraft's upper deck, which will feature a lounge, live entertainment and fine dinning, Clare says.
Business class will have 24 lie-flat seats, and both first and business class will have faxing capabilities.
There will be 262 seats between Voyager and Super Voyager, but Clare did not have the exact breakdown for the two sections.
Voyager will have a three-four-three configuration while Super Voyager will have more legroom with a two-four-two configuration.
All passengers will have access to IFE&C, Clare says. Live programming, pre-recorded programming, children's games, Internet connectivity and mobile phone usage is under consideration, he adds.
The airline has looked at several suppliers but has not made a final selection yet, Clare says.
IFE&C costs will be reflected in ticket prices as Baltia eschews buy-on-board, he says.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
