The Week In Travel

Frankfurt Airport has introduced a 360-degree scanner in Terminal 1’s Concourse A this week, enabling passengers to pass through security without stopping. Millimetre-wave tech eliminates the need to remove jackets and coats, while AI software identifies objects in real-time. The German Federal Police is evaluating this device for everyday use.

In Northern Ireland, VINCI Airports has announced plans to invest £100 million over five years in Belfast International Airport, focusing on operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Key developments include a £25 million security building with advanced CT scanners, an expanded terminal with more gates, seating, and retail options, and a 26 MWp solar farm to reduce CO2 emissions by 12,500 tonnes annually.

Across the pond, American Airlines has unveiled the AAdvantage Business loyalty program for businesses and employees. No minimum spending is required and businesses can earn one mile per $1 spent, and employees accrue one loyalty point per $1 spent, in addition to the usual AAdvantage rewards.

In sustainability news, Neste and Emirates have collaborated to provide over three million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Singapore Changi Airport in 2024 and 2025. The blended SAF will include over one million gallons of neat SAF, comprising over 30% of the blend, and positioning Emirates as the leading SAF user in the Middle East and Africa.

And finally, recent plans from carrier Corendon to include an ‘adult only’ section on its flights has sparked a debate online. Some are fully on board with the idea, seeming very willing to pay the £40 additional charge so that they don’t have to “tolerate a screaming baby on a four-hour flight”. However, others are less impressed, with one woman suggesting child-free zones would leave parents feeling alone and judged. Would you pay extra to fly in the child-free zone?