Aer Lingus to be floated
The Irish Government has opted to go ahead with an initial public offering for Aer Lingus, rather than offer the oneworld partners a strategic stake in the airline. The flotation is expected late this year or early 2001. The carrier says the exact timing, number of shares to be offered and valuation of the company are "a matter for the government".
Airlines go mobile
Swissair has launched an interactive service which allows for check-in via a mobile telephone. Confirmation with flight number, departure time, gate and seat assignment is returned to the telephone display window, including updates. SAS is already testing another wireless applications protocol-based system for reservations and flight information.
Systems integration
Alliance partners KLM and Alitalia have integrated their respective passenger systems, which operate in over 80 countries. Over 100 joint managers have been appointed.
Source: Airline Business
