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The Next Trip – An Aviation and Travel Podcast

The Next Trip is a weekly podcast with aviation insiders Doug and Drew, who together bring more than 40 years of industry experience as a professional pilot and a hub operations manager at a major airline. Join them, and their frequent guests, as they create a network for other AvGeeks and travel enthusiasts to obsess about all things aviation. Doug and Drew discuss today’s aviation news, share personal operational stories, regale listeners with trip reviews, and engage in friendly AvGeek banter. All thoughts and opinions are their own.Visit us at www.nexttripnetwork.com or follow us on Twitter at @nexttrippodcast

Copyright: © 2024 The Next Trip - An Aviation and Travel Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Boarding Pass 260: Where Do We Go From Here? Nov 18, 2024

Aired on November 18, 2024

Doug is taping from trip 2 to Taipei and Drew is enjoying the calm before the snow storms and the crowds of the holiday season. We take a look at where people are going this year and how many are planning to travel. We also discuss:
Planes being shot at in Haiti.
Update on AA and Jetblue’s Northeast Alliance.
India’s Vistara flies into the sunset.
Good news for Boeing with new orders.
Warnings about aircraft production issues.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 259: Bye Bye Bouncies Nov 11, 2024

Doug has just arrived in Taipei after a 14 hour flight and Drew welcomes the first new 787 into the fleet in 2 years. We discuss:
The US elections and how it affects aviation.
Boeing machinists are back at work!
Boom Aeropace’s Overture test aircraft gets closer to the speed of sound.
We say goodbye to SFO’s bouncy walkways.
Why do some different versions of aircraft have different tail sizes?

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 258: The XLR Arrives Nov 04, 2024

Drew is back from a winter ops summit and Doug’s body clock is all over the map after a multi-day domestic trip. We discuss:
An airline starts bouncing boarding line-cutters.
European airlines see softening load factors and Spirit continues layoffs.
Airbus delivers the first A321XLR to Iberia.
TFRs - temporary flight restrictions. What are they?
What’s the difference between ICAO and IATA.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 257: From Packages to Passengers Oct 28, 2024

Our buddy and 2nd time guest, Stephen, joins us to talk about going from cargo to passenger flying. We had to have him on atfer a hotline message last week where he wanted to strangle us about our pronunciation of new airline destinations. Stephen stays to discuss:
Indian carriers are menaced by multiple bomb threats.
Frontier and Spirit talk merger, again.
The FAA issues final rules for eVTOL or advanced air mobility aircraft.
We compare Boeing’s machinist strike with Eastern Airlines strike and shutdown.

Follow Stephen on Instagram or Threads at @captain_phteven. Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 256: Trouble on Both Sides of the Pond Oct 21, 2024

Doug and Drew have an impromptu avgeek meetup in DC, Doug packs sweaters and hula shirts for this trip, and Drew welcomes pandas back to DC. In this episode we discuss:
Panda Diplomacy.
The recipe for frost .
Marburg Virus and aviation.
Delta and United 3rd Quarter Results.
Boeing raising cash while troubles arise at Airbus.

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 255: Freedoms of Flight Oct 14, 2024

Doug is back from Barcelona and Drew just did his 2nd Cessna 172 solo. Drew gets a visit from a group of airline mileage members and was asked “what do you do when a plane crashes?”. We discuss:
Exotic routes announced for next summer.
Captain on a Turkish Airlines flight from Seattle to Istanbul dies inflight.
The Boom Overture project makes progress
ICAO’s Freedoms of Flight.

Drew's San Francisco Walk:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/zbXnsQDJmYwtcqYb7?g_st=ac

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 254: Lift Defined Oct 07, 2024

Drew celebrates 25 years at the company and gets a visit from world traveler and frequent guest, Ian. Doug takes the jumpseat on a personal trip home and feels like he’s at work. We discuss: Mark Cuban asks for lifetime travel. Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon causes more flight disruptions. Spirit fights to stay out of bankruptcy. Boeing machinists stay on strike. FAA clears United of safety concerns. We discuss the the holy grail of aviation - lift

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 253: KC10 Extender Farewell Sep 30, 2024

Doug has an emotional send off to the last KC10 in service. We remember the KC10 and its predecessor, the DC10, with stories about our most memorable flights. Doug also talks about his trip to NYC, cough, Newark, and Drew recaps his Winter Kickoff meeting and short(er) field landings on the Cessna 172. We also discuss: Southwest Airlines operational changes.. Hurricane Helene and how airlines are affected. Safety advances in aviation

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 252: Alaska and Hawaiian's Future Sep 23, 2024

Aired on September 23

Drew is fresh off short field landing practice on the Cessna 172 and Doug had some KC46 late night flying. We discuss:
Airport anxiety - gatexiety.
Boeing freezes hiring.
Update on Alaska/Hawaiian merger.
Lounged at JetBlue?
Hybrid regional aircraft.
Boring plane spotting?

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 251: Contact, Incursions, Strikes, and Shakeups Sep 16, 2024

Doug is back from London, which we love, and Drew's back on the Cessna 172. We talk about Thai food in London, a wedding in Philadelphia, and pickleball in DC, oh and aviation too 😃. This week:
QRHs vs ECAM/EICAS
Atlanta taxiway collision
Nashville runway incursion
Chairman steps down at Southwest
Strike at Boeing

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 250: Partner Swap Sep 09, 2024

Doug and Drew remember the events of September 11, 2001 and recognize a flight attendant’s moving tribute to the airline family we lost. We also discuss:
Engine trouble on A350s around the globe.
Update on changes at Southwest.
Record setting August in Europe.
Lufthansa’s expanding portfolio.
Key Star Alliance member leaves.
Radar outage hits Newark.

Join the conversation

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 249: What's the Problem With the 777X? Sep 02, 2024

Contributor, buddy, and aviation engineer, Greg joins us to talk about thrust links, MCAS, airplane tire pressure, and more. Doug and Drew have a fun meetup in DC but Doug’s return trip to SFO took 30hrs! We discuss:
Record Labor Day Weekend passenger loads.
Doug’s hometown, Dubuque is getting scheduled service again.
A tragic tire explosion in Atlanta.
The 777 is grounded again, this time by Boeing for thrust link cracks
Are stretched versions of aircraft better, operationally?
Smokey and the Bandit, yes, Smokey and the Bandit.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 248: Staying Ahead of the Plane Aug 26, 2024

Aired on August 26, 2024

Doug is back from a rainy Amsterdam and Drew is recovering from the recovery after storms last week. We discuss:
Horizon diversion and high minimum captains…it’s not an emergency!
Elliott Management demands drastic changes at Southwest.
US Air Force receives Archer Midnight eVTOL aircraft.
Is Addis Ababa the next Dubai of aviation?
Alaska/Hawaiian merger, we good? Not so fast
Staying ahead of the aircraft - listeners tell us what that means.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 247: The Boeing 247 Aug 19, 2024

Doug's getting used to his new plane, the KC46, and so is Drew on the Cessna 172. Both of us are enjoying flying as anxiety about learning a new plane eases. We also discuss:

Takeoff and travel vibe music.

Is the Alaska/Hawaiian merger imminent?

Boeing and United make nice nice, they were the same company after all.

Voepass 2283 crash and a discussion on icing and lift.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 246: Basic Business Aug 12, 2024

Drew couldn't escape thunderstorms and diversions this week and Doug becomes a KC46 trainer. Doug and family brave the summer load factors and nonrev to Denver. We discuss:
Basic Business? Delta may unbundle Business, eliminating perks like lounge access
United sunsetting their inflight magazine, Hemispheres
Starliner astronauts stuck on the ICC wait for a flight home
Cathay Pacific investing in its product and ordering A330-300neos
Delta vs Crowdstrike…who's to blame for Delta’s extended IRROPs?
Flight delays and compensation
Join the conversation

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 245: A "Disappointing" Record Breaking Quarter and a New Beginning at Boeing Aug 05, 2024

Doug is back from Amsterdam and Drew has a new flight instructor and, phew, he’s great. A listener said that we were ahead of the curve with our discussion about supertugs and then about mentioning “rawdogging” before it became an avgeek household word. Well, we did it again because the new Pan Am is considering branded airline lounges which we suggested last week, AND, the new Boeing CEO will be based in Seattle to focus on making better planes, which we suggested months ago. We also discuss:
Boom Supersonic has a facility to build their Symphony engine and just unveiled it virtual flight deck
Spirit is laying ofg 240 pilots and some flight attendants as it tries to avoid bankruptcy
Doug goes all MBA on airline first quarter results - don’t worry, we make it fun
A listener asks about becoming an pilot in his 50’s - DO IT!

Join the conversation

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 244: Not Your Grandma's Southwest Jul 29, 2024

Drew is back from New Zealand and Australia and Doug is just off a triangle route, going from San Francisco to Tokyo to New York and back. We recap our trips and discuss:
Paris Olympics causes Delta and Air France financial losses.
Crowdstrike strikes the airlines.
Farnborough airshow orders.
Southwest Airlines low flying planes, seat assignments, and premium seating.
Doug going to Amsterdam next week and Drew’s back to Cessna 172 school.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 243: Down Undah Jul 22, 2024

Drew made it to New Zealand but it wasn’t without some drama. Doug gives the 767 simulator a workout with some dangerours scenarios. We also discuss:
Carriers increase service to New Zealand from the US.
FAA grants Boeing a TIA (type inspection authorization) for the 777-9, giving it the green light for certification.
We compare the 777-9 to its predecessor, the 777-300ER.
Pan Am rising again? We talk about a new company trying to reimagine the legendary carrier.
Join the discussion!
Check out our map of things to do in Auckland and on the North Island!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 242: Drew Flies Alone Jul 15, 2024

Joe, Drew's flight instructor, joins us to talk about teaching people to fly. His last lesson as a CFI happened to be Drew's solo flight! We discuss:
Drew's still on cloud 9 after soloing
What got Joe into aviation
Boeing pleads guilty of fraud
Lufthansa purchases 41% of ITA
TSA breaks a passenger screening record of over 3 million
Joe gives advice to prospective pilots

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 241: Ryan Can Fly and Move Planes Jul 08, 2024

Special guest, Ryan, joins us to talk about becoming a private pilot and supervising the Move Team. Doug is back from a domestic 777 circuit including SFO, IAH, DEN, and OGG (Maui). He talks about landing a huge plane on a tiny runway. We also discuss:
CRJ200 hate speech is exposed
Boeing brings Spirit Aerosystems, that makes 737 fuselages, back in-house
Are Air Force uniforms as uncomfortable as they look
Drew is planning to solo for the 1st time. Will he be cockpit blocked again?

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 240: Rawdoggin Jul 01, 2024

Rawdogging is the challenge of taking a long flight with no IFE, books, music, or sleep. Rawdoggers sit there staring at the cabin, out the window, and at the airshow map - basically what avgeeks do everyday. We’re calling cultural appropriation! 🤣 We discuss this and: Drew’s prepping for his private pilot solo. Doug flies the triangle: SFO-EWR-HND-SFO. Aer Lingus pilot strike complicates Swifties' concert plans. IATA declares that the industry has recovered from COVID. Record TSA screenings. Skytrax top 10 airlines. Remember to check the FAA’s National Airspace System Status before you fly at : nasstatus.faa.gov.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 239: Rocking Chairs and SSTs Jun 24, 2024

Doug is back from 777 simulator training at Denver and Drew is getting ready to solo a (real) Cessna 172. Doug is also choosing patio furniture and guess what… we’ve got an aviation patio furniture story! We discuss: Short runway, big planes at Maui. When did rocking chairs make their way into airports? Boom Supersonic completes its Overture factory in Greensboro.
Archer Aviation partners with Signature Aviation to bring electric air taxi service to United hubs. American Airlines flight attendants demand higher pay. Doug answers listener Kyle’s question about preparing for an international flight.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 238: 40-Year-Old Virgin Jun 17, 2024

Virgin Atlantic celebrates 40 years of service this month. We reminisce about the groundbeaking airline's growth and how it's looking to rejuvenate with new management. In other news, Doug is summering in Breckenridge and, for balance, Drew's operations center is flooded. Spoiler…it was a crappy situation. Also on this episode: Alaska loses to the Virgin Group in a $160 million trademark case. FAA reports unruly passenger incidents remain high. Lufthansa and IAG being asked for more concessions for their acquisitions of ITA and Air Europa, respectively. Southwest’s new investor, Elliott Investment Management, demands changes. What is a coterminal and what does that mean for passengers

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 237: Starliner's "Long Tarmac Delay" Jun 10, 2024

Doug is back from steamy hot and bustling Manila, and Drew’s still getting cockpit-blocked on his Cessna 172 training flights. This time Drew's training was canceled when a Yak 52 gear collapse caused the single runway airport to close. On this episode we discuss: We got featured in the New York Times! IATA predicts bigger airline profits in 2024 than 2023 NASA and Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner “Calypso” docks with the ICC. SpaceX launched and successfully landed, Starship, a reusable satellite launcher and moon lander. Speaking of Star, Drew describes how airlines prioritize STAR flights - Start The Airline Right. Doug is planning for a family trip over the weekend and Drew is hitting the books to possibly solo this month

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 236: Mixed Signals Jun 03, 2024

Doug thought he was flying a 777 to Frankfurt but ended up in Barcelona (sorry, Barthelona) while Drew was playing avgeek tour guide again in DC. We discuss:
We broke a US air travel record on Friday .
American changing course after weaker business travel numbers.
El Al making profits despite the war in Gaza.
Gol and Azul talk merger. Brazil's Varig 2.0?
Travel boom or bust coming….it’s complicated.
Drew is finally planning a vacation with his partner after their last trip in 2017.
Doug is going to Manila for the first time.

Join the banter!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 235: Singapore 321 May 27, 2024

Doug is back from another Osaka trip and Drew is off for Memorial Day weekend…possibly the busiest in history. We discuss:
(Airline) Summer has started with the TSA expecting almost 3 million passengers on Friday, a new record
Airfares are down and passengers are finding deals
Bark Air launched on Thursday and is providing “white paw" service to our furry friends
Archer Midnight receives FAA airworthiness criteria on the path to certification
Frontier and Spirit reduce fees
We analyze what happened to SQ321 and review tuburlence trends
https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023gl103814

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 234: Embraer Superiority May 20, 2024

Drew got some good Cessna 172 training in with his first landing at an airport which wasn’t the one he took off from. Martin State Airport to Easton, MD was the route which was short but only 15 miles shy of a “cross country” training flight. Doug is home this week and has been dance dad (vs. soccer mom) . We discuss:
Do customers like preordering meals?
Customers and airlines love the Embraer E jets. We discuss why.
The Embraer E190 and E195 gain ETOPs 120 certification which may open up transatlantic flights.
Could a stretched A220, the A220-500,, mean the end of the A319 and 737-700?
What constitutes a general aviation cross country training flight?

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 233: San Francisco Oakland Airport? May 13, 2024

Doug is back from Paris after a triangle routing of SFO-EWR-CDG-SFO. He basically has no idea which time zone his body clock is in! He talks about the Olympic buzz already being felt around the city. We discuss:
Paris airports prepare for the Summer Olympics.
Dutch startup Elysian working on what could be the first electric airliner, the E9X
Shots fired across the bay as SFO is not happy about OAK changing its name to San Francisco Bay Oakland Airport.
ADS-B is used by aircraft, ATC, Flightradar24, FlightAware, and a bunch of other applications. What is it and how does it work?
Appreciating our moms putting up with and enabling us avgeeks.

Join the discussion

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 232: Aviation Bill May 06, 2024

Drew is back from an airport ops summer planning session in Chicago and Doug visited Amsterdam (not just the airport) for the first time. Drew also had a visit from, Aaron, our favorite podcast critic. We discuss:
Boeing 767 slide falls near house of lawyer suing Boeing for a plug door falling out.
Turkish orders up to 235 planes from Airbus and Boeing.
Air China orders 100 COMAC C919s.
Is Embraer working on a 737/A320 beater?
We discuss the bipartisan FAA funding bill.
Doug talks about flying over the Pacific with little to no radar or ATC coverage.

Join the discussion

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 231: Tool Belt Generation Apr 29, 2024

Doug is back from Raleigh Durham after flight simulator training on the KC46 and Drew is getting better at landings on a Cessna 172. We discuss:

Lara from Non Rev Lounge Podcast visits DC.
Will Gen Z, the Toolbelt Generation, fill aviation's need for skilled technicians?
Southwest cuts service and expects to lose 2,000 employees this year.
American has a loss in the 1st quarter but sees record revenue and a strong 2nd quarter ahead.
IndiGo orders up to 100 A350s.
New DOT rules for refunds and pricing transparency.

Join the Conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 230: Mystery Flight Apr 22, 2024

Would you pay 30,000 miles for a flight to a mystery destination? We would, and so did several lucky passengers who got to fly on SAS to Athens. We discuss this and:
Delta and United report 1st quarter performance.
Southwest and United reduce schedule due to Boeing 737 delivery delays.
Floods in Dubai shut down the airport.
You're never too old for a new chapter….in aviation!

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/podcast/episode-231-

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 229: Jeff Wise Talks Boeing and MH370 Apr 15, 2024

Science journalist, Jeff Wise, joins us to share his views on how Boeing lost its way after it acquired McDonnell Douglas. We also look back at one of aviation's biggest unsolved mysteries - the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines MH370 just over 10 years ago.

Check out Jeff’s recent article on Boeing and his intriguing podcast uncovering the latest clues to what happened to MH370:

Boeing Nosedive

Deep Dive MH370

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 228: Here Today, Gone ToMaui Apr 08, 2024

Drew is back from Hong Kong and Doug is about to do domestic legs from Chicago, to Denver, and then to Maui. How does he pack for this? We discuss:
US adds 303,000 jobs, more than forecast, promising a strong summer travel season.
Doug and Drew love to name lounges according to their themes. Is the “Captain Cook “ lounge at SFO related to Pan Am’s Clipper Club lounges?
Alaska Airlines reveals how much Boeing paid them in damages for the 737-9 grounding.
SAS’ bankruptcy filing has been approved by a US court, allowing it to reorganize and exit as a stronger airline.
Economy airline tickets are 9% more expensive than in 2019 but premium tickets are down by 3%. Is this good or bad for the airlines.
What are the commandments from the FAR/AIM on airspeeds in different classes of air spaces?

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 227: WE ARE NOT GOING TO SYDNEY Apr 01, 2024

Doug is back from a nonrev family adventure to Santiago, Chile while Drew was busy getting snowbirds to the Caribbean. We discuss:
Jetblue/Hawaiian/Alaska merge into Blue Pacific?
Boom Overture tester, the XB-1, takes flight!
Leadership shakeup at Boeing
Spring Break volumes and airspace bottlenecks
Do crews on turns to Canada and Mexico need to clear customs?

We finish with Drew taping from Seattle and planning to fly to Hong Kong via SFO.

Join the conversation

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 226: The WindRunner? Mar 25, 2024

Doug had 3 trips since the last episode - DC to SFO, SFO to Osaka, and an out and back KC46 flight at Travis AFB in California. Drew had a quiet week with a flight lesson and a smooth week managing the a hub operation. We talk about what may be the biggest airplane ever, the WindRunner by start-up Radia, which will transport wind turbines. We also discuss:
United expects its busiest Spring Break ever.
JAL and Korean Air order A350s.
NASA;s Artemis II plans to take astronauts around the moon next year.
Which aircraft have the right of way.
Air Force One and TFRs (temporary flight restrictions.

We finish the episode with our preliminary travel plans for Spring Break. Will Doug and family make it to South America? Cliff hanger for next week!

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 225: Clear Air Turbulence Mar 18, 2024

Doug and Drew meet up in DC with a crew of avgeeks that give us a lot of material. Two of them, Drew's coworkers Andy and Patrick, have been on the show. Doug definitely got an earful. We also discuss:
Southwest slashes capacity due to Boeing 737 Max delivery delays.
Cathay Pacific is back in the black with huge profits.
Delta CEO says they're seeing record demand over the next few months.
We do an update on Boeing’s issues.
Latam incident between Sydney and Auckland.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 224: Operations Part 2 Mar 11, 2024

Doug is back from Paris while Drew couldn't get off the ground in Baltimore. It’s Doug’s turn to talk about how his pilot work day starts. We also discuss:
Jetblue/ Spirit merger drama ends.
A United 777 departing SFO loses a wheel and diverts to LAX.
American orders 737 Max 10s AND A321s.
Why is pilot hiring slowing. It's not necessarily the economy.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 223: Operations Part 1 Mar 04, 2024

Drew talks about how he begins his work day and how an airline hub operations begins. Doug is back from Beijing, where the 737 Max is flying again, and where eating shrimp isn’t as easy as it sounds - he explains. We discuss:
Solar Eclipse travel and Delta’s flight along the path of “totality” .
Chinese airlines can add another 50 flights to the US, further thawing relations.
American is about to place an order for 100 narrowbody planes and it looks like Airbus is the victor.
The FAA’s Mike Whitaker gives Boeing 90 days to come up with a comprehensive quality control plan.
Bag fees are rising, but when adjusting for inflation air travel is still a bargain

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 222: The Golden Age of Airports Feb 26, 2024

Doug is back from Hong Kong and we discuss the city's ups and downs as an aviation hub. We talk about how US airports are seeing billions of dollars of investment which are resulting in magnificent new facilities. Also on this episode:
Winds over the North Atlantic propel airliners over 800mph.
United plans to reinstate Tel Aviv service.
Airport investments.
Aircraft type ratings.

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 221: Going Through HEL Feb 19, 2024

Drew recaps his round-the-world (kind of) trip and Doug is back from 777 landings training in Denver. We discuss:
Finnair pivots after Asia flights are complicated by Russia airspace issues
Finnair asks customers to weigh in
Russia buys previously leased planes
Thai Airways buys 45 787s
Engines engines engines

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 220: Around the World in 80 Hours Feb 12, 2024

Drew is in Hong Kong, with return guest Ian, while Doug is in North Carolina for KC46 training. Ian and Drew are fresh off flights from LAX where they met up with avgeek friends. We discuss:
Lara of Nonrev Lounge has her birthday at LAX…of course
Getting from LAX to HKG via MUC and ZRH? It’s complicated
4 engines for long haul. We discuss the A340
737 Max update
Lufthansa ground workers strike
Maybe they’re Vince Peterson stairs, not DB Cooper?
What’s KLM Asia?

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 219: Yes, She'll Make It. Next... Feb 05, 2024

Drew is back in the air and working on perfecting landings in a Cessna Skyhawk. Doug is home from work and spending way too mcuh time figuring out if Taylor Swift will make it from her concert in Tokyo. We discuss:
Doug gives Drew tips on how to grease a landing
Jetblue and Spirit appeal the decision denying their merger
Should Boeing “sunset” the 737?
Contributor Steve laments the current state of travel attire and we agree

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 218: Back in the Sky! Jan 29, 2024

Drew is back in the sky working on a private pilot’s license while Doug is in Houston on the “V" part of his “W" assignment of SFO-LHR-IAH-LHR-SFO. We discuss:
Sending a 767 to San Diego with rampers to work it
Late Senator Dianne Feinstein gets an SFO terminal and the Ontario Airport named after her
American, Southwest, and United reported earnings
Jetblue may be changing it's mind about merging with Spirit
El Niño pushes flights across the Pacific at record speeds
The 737 Max 9 is cleared to fly!
American has changed toiletry kits to cardboard
Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 217: Lowered Spirits Jan 22, 2024

Drew had 2 deice events this week as El Niño brings in the promised precipitation. Doug is back from sunny Taipei after riding some bad turbulence on the way home. We discuss:
Air Florida 90 and deicing hold over times
Boeing 737 Max 9 grounding update
Everyone’s jumping on the India band wagon (Mumbai rush hour train) with more flights
Spirit/Jetblue merger failure. What now?
Boeing and Airbus order books are packed!

Joint the Av-rants!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 216: Oh Boeing... Jan 15, 2024

Doug is back from a 2-day trip to Munich where the trains weren’t running and Drew is lucking out again with calm East Coast weather for the MLK weekend traffic. We discuss:
Alaska 1282 door plug incident
It’s an El Niño year for weather patterns. How does that affect aviation?
Jetblue's Joanna Geraghty is the first major US airline CEO
Delta orders 20 A350-1000s
What does Boeing pay for 737 groundings?

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 215: JAL 516 Jan 08, 2024

Drew deals with “flurrygate" to cap off 7 busy week for airport ops while Doug is getting much needed rest after a running the gauntlet over the Christmas holiday. We discuss:
JAL 516 - “kudos to the crew”
Smooth operators - airlines keep it together over the holiday season
Akasa (who?) on the verge of a 150 aircraft order
2023 was a safe year for aviation

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 214: Another Year Over and a New One's Just Begun Jan 01, 2024

Doug is back from his “W” trip SFO-LHR-IAH-LHR-SFO and trying not to think of where his body clock is. Drew enjoyed a traditional airline Christmas of working and then enjoying takeout Chinese food on the couch with Robbie and doggie, Henny. We discuss:
Did our predictions for 2023 happen?
Mexicana is back!
Are exploding engines in our future? We look at rotating detonation engines
Why do airlines still use 1960s technology dot matrix Okidata printers?
Predictions for next year

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 213: Under the AvGeek Christmas Tree Dec 25, 2023

Drew and Doug are both on the job the week of Christmas with Drew working the busy hub operation and Doug doing flights to London, then Houston, back to London, and then home to SFO. We talk about news stories as presents and what we’d like to see under the avgeek Xmas tree.

We also discuss:
JSX buys 300 electric and hybrid planes
Boeing resumes deliveries to China
Lufthansa orders 737 Maxes
We explain what “airline chicken” is

Join the discussion!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 212: Why Flying is Miserable: And How to Fix It Dec 18, 2023

Ganesh Sitaraman, professor at Vanderbilt University, and author of “Why Flying is Miserable: and How to Fix It”, joins us to talk about the history of the airlines and how to make them better. We discuss:

The inception and growth of America’s airlines
Regulation and deregulation
Ideas on how to bring back service to smaller cities, improve the flying experience, and keep it accessible

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 211: Alaska Makes an (Un)Surprising Move Dec 11, 2023

Doug is back from KC46 training near Philadelphia and Drew is working to save fuel by having aircraft APUs shut down fast. Both of us are excited about the Alaska/Hawaiian merger and of course we have opinions on it. Should they start a new airline brand or keep Alaska and Hawaiian identities separate? We also discuss:
The best and worst airports for layovers
The JetBlue-Spirit merger gets closer to happening
Thai Airways is on the verge of a huge 787 order
Join the conversation!

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Boarding Pass 210: Busiest Day in History Dec 04, 2023

It’s confirmed - Sunday, November 26 was the busiest day in US aviation history. Drew talks about how it was running the operation that day, and Doug recounts leaving snowy Chicago. We discuss:
Travel forecasts for 2024
A Virgin 787 flies on 100% SAF
Spirit struggles with planes out of service and excess staffing
We remember the Concorde's last flight 20 years ago
Why are all planes not deiced?
Alaska and Hawaiian drop a whopper of an announcement LATE on a Sunday (after we recorded, edited, and uploaded)

Join the conversation!

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Boarding Pass 209: The Great Sandwich War of 1958 Nov 27, 2023

Doug is back from Beijing and in the US Midwest for Thanksgiving while Drew is working the busiest holiday travel week ever. We talk about out Thanksgiving celebrations and discuss:
TSA passenger numbers this week
Airline service offerings and IATA regulating sandwiches in 1958
Dutch government drops flight cap threat
Boom Supersonic project gains speed with Saudi investment
Dubai Airshow orders are a win for Boeing
GE90 engines vs its replacement, the GE9X on the 777-9

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 208: Thanks for Nothing Nov 20, 2023

Doug is back from New Zealand and Drew's back from Geneva via a 747 from Frankfurt. Both are gearing up for a record breaking Thanksgiving travel period. We talk about what we’re thankful for but it didn’t go as planned. 😃

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Boarding Pass 207: Cargo Flashes Warning Signs Nov 13, 2023

Doug is back from 777 simulator training and Drew continues Winter Ops training in 70F temps. We discuss:
We get confirmation that our prediction about Jetblue and Alaska merging was and is a possibility
Fedex tells pilots “go work for American"
Spirit leaving Denver
United expects record breaking Thanksgiving holiday travel period

We finish the episode previewing Doug’s trip to New Zealand that evening and Drew's trip to Europe the next day.

Join the discussion!

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Boarding Pass 206: Just Tap the Brakes Nov 06, 2023

Drew has roadblocks getting flights out with the jetstream causing early arrivals in Europe, weight restrictions to Tokyo due to a volcanic eruption, and gate space issues at Las Vegas. Doug is in Denver for flight sim training after just arriving from Taipei. We discuss:
US Senators accuse airlines of “unfair practices” in their frequent flyer programs
What’s up with AOG Technics, the company at the heart of the fake parts scandal?
The Boeing 737-7 is nearing certification and there’s hope for the 737-10 as well
Chinese airlines post profits again
Why do pilots do jerky slowdowns and stops sometimes

Join the discussion!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/podcast/bips64t9pv992nqh3zub135iwvpjo4

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Boarding Pass 205: Downsizing? Oct 30, 2023

Drew is back from a Winter Ops Summit in Chicago and Doug is getting his honey-do list done before flying to Taipei. We discuss:
Challenges of running a full schedule during snow and ice events
Kudos to the Horizon crew who dealt with a jumpseater trying to shut engines off
Southwest posts smaller profit and orders 108 737-7s
Spirit slows growth plans due to softer demand
FAA finally has a leader
We discuss how to start a jet engine

Join the discussion!

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Boarding Pass 204: Full Circle Part 2 (One Perfect Day) Oct 23, 2023

Doug and Drew make it to Hong Kong to celebrate over 200 episodes. We accomplish our mission of walking to Checkerboard Hill where aircraft made the sharp turn before landing at Kai Tak airport until 1998. Drew has a special visitor from Sri Lanka with a civilian aviation story and Doug is back to KC46 training. . We discuss:
Sri Lankan writer Ashok Ferrey joins us to talk about travel from Asia post-Covid
Our flights to and from Hong Kong, including Drew’s serendipitous detour to Osaka
Cebu Pacific ordering up to 150 aircraft
Korean and Asiana merger hits turbulence
United, Delta, and American post 3rd quarter results
We end the show regaling you with our one perfect day in Hong Kong and answering some really good questions from our contributors (you).
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/podcast/episode-204-avgeek-serendipity-hkg

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 203: Full Circle Part 1 (Back Where it Started) Oct 16, 2023

Drew is at SFO filling in for ops manager and Doug survived a water park with 2 kids. We do a quick taping before Drew rushed to get on a flight to Hong Kong (or anywhere in Asia). We discuss
Drew’s full circle from SFO express ops agent to mainline ops manager
Flights halted to Isreal as war erupts
United flight to nowhere
Boeing X66-A TTBW project update and will it have open rotor engines?
Could you get struck by space junk?

We end the show with our plans for one perfect day in Hong Kong.
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/podcast/vv0jr2at1zqpfmufnmzpvfsvo1pkif

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 202: Planes, Planes, and More Planes Oct 09, 2023

Doug is back from Frankfurt, and Drew is rounding everyone up to create Winter ops checklists as temps start dropping. Breaking news is a cargo 757 doing a belly landing in Chattanooga, Tennessee after a possible hydraulic issue. We discuss landing gear situations as well as a planeload of other topics:
SAS moves from the STAR Alliance to SkyTeam with Air France/KLM buying a stake
Jetblue flight attendants get a raise and back the merger with Spirit
United buys another 110 aircraft including 50 787s and 60 A321NEOs
Drew has a weight restricted flight from DC to Tokyo - how does ops handle that?
We explain why we think American Airilnes is suing to keep its Northeast Alliance with JetBlue

Join the discussion!
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Boarding Pass 201: Arrivederci Avgeeks Oct 02, 2023

Doug is in Green Bay for a Packers game, after operating his 2nd flight to Rome, while Drew holds court with four avgeeks in DC. We discuss
Reactions to Delta’s mileage program changes
Ryan Air's CEO, Michael O’Leary, gets pied
Jetblue/America Northeast Alliance update
AirCanada orders 787-10s while AF/KLM orders A350
Cathay Pacific and HKG rise out of the ashes
ACARS - the system that communicates to aircraft
Your favorite mega airports
Join the discussion!
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Boarding Pass 200: Thank You Listeners! Sep 25, 2023

We made it to 200 episodes and could not have done it without you. Thank you for letting us be your avgeek fix every week. We do it for you! Thanks for the feedback, comments, engagement, and inspiration. We planned a fabulous trip for this episode but had to postpone because life happens, and we’ve alway said people (and pets) over planes. There will still be a celebratory trip soon but in the meantime we’re back to business with the following topics:
Doug’s trip to Shanghai
Delta changes their SkyMiles program to reward spending above miles and segments
India stops issuing visas to Canadians and both countries expel a diplomat. Will travel between the countries grind to a halt?
We remember Leina’ala whose image graces the tails of Hawaiian Airlines
Airline’s mileage programs are sometimes worth more than the airline itself

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 199: Impending Groundings? Sep 18, 2023

We're back from Dorkfest at LAX but the fun didn't stop there. Doug had a rags to riches avgeek story for his return to the SF Bay Area and Drew and buddies went west to Honolulu (as one does) before returning to the mainland. On this episode we discuss:
A passenger attempted to enter the flight deck at Chicago O'Hare
Ural Airlines A320 lands in a field in Russia
Italy wants to fast track Lufthansa's investment in ITA
PW1100 engine inspections delay Airbus delivery schedules
Through or direct flights involving a plane and equipment change

Join the discussion!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/podcast/66phhntqbemsxymi780obv8dkmrg0l

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 198: Dorkfest! Sep 11, 2023

Doug and Drew make it to Dorkfest 2023 LAX and meet up with a bunch of our awesome friends and listeners. This is a yearly avgeek meetup first organized by Brett Snyder, better known as blogger Cranky Flier. VIP listeners Ian and Ryan join us on the episode. We discuss:
Our crazy routes to LAX
Avgeeks on a train?
Annoying announcements
New FAA administrator
Tom Brady hired as Delta spirit animal?
Day trip to Mohave Airpark and Palmdale

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 197: No Way Red Way Sep 04, 2023

It’s the busiest Labor Day weekend ever in the US and Drew’s mom tells us about getting the last seat on a flight from SF to DC. We also discuss:
Allegiant's new alcohol pricing
LHR's ATC meltdown
Redway Airlines, acting as sales agent for Fly Next, flying Global Crossing Airlines aircraft, fails. Confused yet?
FAA investigation close to 5,000 pilots for not reporting health issues

Join the discussion
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 196: All Roads Lead to PSLs Aug 28, 2023

See Rome and fly! Doug’s speed dating the Eternal City and Drew's on AM shift avoiding delays for customers in line for pumpkin spice lattes. We discuss
Is FCO the best large airport in Europe?
Will Carsten Spohr of LH bring ITA into STar Alliance?
Dulles breaks ground on largest airport green energy project
Boom's SST tester aircraft gets FAA certification
Will the Boom Overture succeed where Concorde failed? We look at the numbers

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 195: Back to Work! Aug 21, 2023

Doug is flying the line again and Drew is transitioning to AM shift. We talk about one of our favorite cities, Heathrow…sorry, London, where Doug just did a 24hr turnaround. Also on this episode
Sensational news articles
Runway incursions and San Diego's single runway
Delta buys corporate jet operator, Wheels Up
Airlines keep adding premium seats
Air India livery….hero (window) or zero?

Join the discussion!
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Boarding Pass 194: Turnaround Time with Oscar Munoz Aug 15, 2023

Doug and Drew interview Oscar Munoz, recent CEO and Chairman of United Airlines. Oscar talks about how he turned around a major US airline and put it on a path to success. We talk about his new book “Turnaround Time” which chronicles his life and career and fulfilling his American dream. Oscar discusses with us:
How he put safety and people first as he turned United around
Oscar’s thoughts on the Archer Midnight eVTOL and Boom Supersonic Overture
Surviving a heart attack and the resilience to bounce back stronger
Advice for people entering the airline industry
Thoughts on the current state of the airline industry and its future

We don’t let Oscar leave without answering some avgeek questions!

Join the discussion!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/podcast/episode-194-turnaround-time-with-oscar-munoz

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 193: Not Without My... Aug 07, 2023

Drew is having a difficult work week while Doug is just as busy on his time off. On this episode we discuss:
Some US airlines are seeing a clear drop in domestic demand. Will international demand supplement the drop?
European carriers, including Ryanair, continue to see strong load factors
Wizz Air orders 75 A321neos and American is looking of 100 narrowbodies
After a customer opened a door inflight on Asiana, Korean carriers restrict access to emergency exit seats
We discuss aviation safety during a week where there were two incidents involving a 757 and 767
How do we manage an emergency in the flight deck and on the ground?

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 192: Move Team & Oshkosh Jul 31, 2023

Patrick from the Move Team at Drew’s Airport joins us to talk about moving multi-million dollar aircraft and being the rescue crew for aircraft in need. He is also fresh from EAA Oshkosh! On this episode we discuss
PW1000G engine inspections
The NASA/Boeing TTBW or X66 future airliner
UPS workers new contract

Join the discussion!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/podcast/72dj82h71nt1m5mxk7jnvh9yab7puw

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 191: Hobson's Choice Jul 24, 2023

Doug gets to fly the KC46 (for real, not simulator) and discusses the similarities with the 777. Drew is in peak Summer airport operations and working to keep things moving. On this episode we discuss:
Congress shows bipartisanship buy signing the FAA reauthorization bill
An escape slide escapes from a 767-300
Delta, United, and American 2nd quarter results
Pilots, flight attendants, and ground workers are demanding better contracts
A Delta 757-300 returns to the gate with a hot cabin. How does this happen?

Airline passengers can make a Hobson’s choice if they don’t like their meal. Listen to hear what that is.

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 190: Straight to the Points Jul 17, 2023

Spencer Howard of Straight To The Points, a must-have premium travel resource, joins us this week. We discuss how he left a career in politics to follow his passion which has taken him around the world in luxury. We were also able to confirm that Spencer is an avgeek….at least we think he is, you decide. Spencer also discusses with us:
Skiplagging - but is it legal?
LAX airport worker strikes
NASA X-59 quiet SST may be the future of travel
Spencer’s picks for best airline products
Check out Straight to the Points at:
Straight to the Points
Instagram: @straighttothepoints
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 189: Francis Takes On ARFF Jul 10, 2023

Next Trip Public Enemy #1, airport ops supervisor Francis, joins Drew on a widebody transcon trip from DC to LAX. We visit Next Trip public enemy #2, Aaron, and regale Doug about planes, Hollywood, and ARFF of course. In this episode:
ARFF, aircraft rescue and fire fighting
PFAS (forever chemicals) in fire fighting foam
Jetblue leaving Northeast Alliance, AA: “not so fast"
Spirit Aerosystems machinists end strike
TSA has busiest travel day
Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 188: Pack Your Patience Jul 03, 2023

Doug and Drew comiserate with each other and travelers after a rough week at the airlines. We talk about what happened with the weather and ATC and the difficulties of recovering after hundreds of planes and thousands of crewmembers are displaced. We also discuss:
Let’s stop calling it revenge travel - its just travel, and its growing
Mexican airlines are ready to expand as soon as the FAA lifts Mexico back to a Category 1 status. Volaris has several routes planned and Viva Aerobus is expected to order 100 Airbus aircraft.
The cause of a ramp worker engine ingestion fatality last week was, sadly, confimed to be suicide
A DOT Inspector General audit confirrmed that the FAA is understaffed and lacks a plan to address the challenge
A Delta 717 had a gear up landing. Doug tells us how pilots are trained to handle these situations

We end the show with our first Google Voice message from abroad with a comment from Mark in Calgary, Canada.

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 187: Paris 2023 Jun 26, 2023

Drew has a rough week with nights ending up at IHOP and not Jimmy’s (we’ll explain) and Doug is on a soccer dad break from KC46 training. On this episode we discuss
Paris Airshow begins
Indigo has a record 500 plane order, Qantas orders the A220 to replace the 717, Phillipine Airlines orders A350’s
Boeing and Airbus forecast the need for 40,000+ planes in the next 20 years

Spirit Aerosystem machinists go on strike, causing new supply chain issues for the 737 and 787
The OceanGate Titan tragedy has an aviation angle
Is a biplane DC9 with props the future of commercial aviation? Enter the TTBW
Boom Supersonic forges ahead with manufacturers lined up to make the Overture’s fuselage and wings

We end the show with a discussion about missed approaches and go-arounds. Don’t be afraid and enjoy more flight time. :)

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 186: Sliding into the Week Jun 19, 2023

Drew talks about managing throught the Summer flight schedule and Doug is getting ready to head back to training, this time in Altus, Oklahoma, the middle of nowhere. Is it really the middle of nowhere though? Drew does some research and finds goat petting, corn shucking, and axe throwing to keep Doug occupied. We also discuss:
Spirit Aerosystems and the IAM reach a tentative agreement to avoid a strike and delays to 737 and 787 deliveries
Qantas details its A350 cabin layout for its Project Sunrise flights to LHR and JFK - spoiler, there’s a lounge and its not for first class
Spirit Aerosystems make the whole fuselage of the 737 and many parts for the 787. Should Boeing buy them?
Slide deployments - why do they happen? How much do they cost to repair , and why is Doug scared every time he opens a door?

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 185: DB Cooper Jun 12, 2023

Doug is back in California for a break from KC46 training and Drew is managing through the crazy busy Summer flght schedule. We touch on the Air India diversion to Siberia and SFO go-arounds drama before we head down memory taxi lane with a look back at the Boeing 727. Also on this episode:
SAS opens up reservations on the first electric airliner - the Heart ES 30
B52 Stratofortress might fly for 100 years with new engines and navigations system
Jetblue offers slots at LGA to Frontier in an effort to get its Spirit merger throug
Who is DB Cooper and why are 727 rear stairs named after him, and should they be the Richard McCoy stairs?

Join the fun!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 184: Brushwing Rising in HKG Jun 05, 2023

Cathay Pacific’s Senior VP, Americas, Chris van den Hooven joins us as his carrier bounces back from Covid19. China’s “zero covid” policy has kept Cathay Pacific out of the resurgent Asian travel market but now, with restrictions lifted, the sky’s the limit. Also on this episode:
We look at rising traffic volumes in Asia
China’s first large jet, the COMAC C919, starts commercial service
What are the angriest airports in the US?
Cathay Pacifics pre-Covid rise in the Pacific

We end with Chris regaling us with bar recommendations for when we visit Hong Kong, and can tape with him IN PERSON.

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 183: Air Capital of the World May 29, 2023

Doug and Drew are on location in Wichita, Kansas which claims to be the Air Capital of the World. Is it? We tour the city to find out.
Bombardier/ Learjet facilities
Cessna and Textron
Spirit Aerosystems
Airbus
B29 Museum
https://www.b29doc.com/
Kansas Aviation Museum
https://kansasaviationmuseum.org/

All these aviation giants here but “The I

C..T.” is not all about aviation. We visited breweries, a nature trail, the charming Old Town, and played pickleball!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 182: 5G Extension? May 22, 2023

Airlines are asking for more time to update aircraft altimeters but will the FAA extend the deadline at the end of June? Telecoms executive Hugh Odom, president of Vertical Consultants, joins us to talk about the concerns. Doug goes down memory taxi lane with a visit to Enid Oklahoma where he did early flight training. Drew talks about ensuring thousands of bags fly with passengers. We also discuss:

Hawaiian gets first 787s. Where will they fly?
Cargolux 747 loses a main gear assembly
Russian airlines’ maintenance situation gets worse
Cathay Pacific works to come back from the downturn but pilot hiring is a challenge
What's the difference between apron, tarmac, and ramp?

Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 181: ATCGPT May 15, 2023

Nose to the grindstone for Doug and Drew this week with Doug hitting the KC46 books and simulator and Drew prepping for a busy summer airline hub operation. We dive into commercial aviation jet routes which could be a J route or Q route based on if its using ground based VORs or GPS - confused yet? Don’t change the station, we’ll explain. Also on this episode:
737 orders keep coming with Ryanair ordering 150 Max 10s
India’s Go First files for bankruptcy, blaming Pratt and Whitney engines
Emirates makes a $3 billion profit
Biden administration wants airlines to compensate for delayed flights
All this and more - join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 180: Looming Pilot Strikes? May 08, 2023

Drew is back from another Summer IRROPs preparation meeting and Doug is back to Wichita in KC46 training. Drew talks about how airlines and ATC work behind the scenes to make sure your flight is safe. Both Doug and Drew talk about how they individually work with ATC and Dispatch, real time, to get planes moving. We also discuss:
Will the A220-500 and EMB 195-E2 kill the A320 and 737?
The US allows airlines from China to add 4 additonal roundtrips per week for a total of 12 now
American and Southwest pilots vote on whether to strike. Will the Railway Labor Act of 1926 apply to them today?
We discuss “one hit wonder” engines that are used on only one aircraft type

We finish the episode ranting about an article lamenting airport lounges. We agree lounges could be better, but a lounge is better than no lounge!

Join the discussion!

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Boarding Pass 179: Direct May 01, 2023

Drew is back from an IRROPs strategy session in Las Vegas and Doug is on the way home from Wichita for a break from KC-46 training. They were both on direct flights …or were they non-stop flights? Doug av-splains the difference. Also on this episode:
Fedex closes bases at Anchorage, Los Angeles, and Cologne
Mexico is closer to regaining Category 1 status with the FAA
Engine manufacturers, like airlines, are enjoying tailwinds
Southwest posts a 1st quarter loss and American posts a profit
Ticketed and confirmed passengers
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 178: Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly Apr 24, 2023

Doug's in KC46 school in Wichita and Drew's back from helping improve airline ops tools in Chicago. This week we discuss:
Aviation word of the week : RUD - Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly
SpaceX Starship
Southwest internal gound stop
Alaska Airlines removing kiosks from ticket counter areas
New Avelo Airlines base at Wilmington, Delaware
United posts small 1st quarter loss
Turbulence getting worse with climate change
Join the conversation
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 177: Doug Does DFW Apr 17, 2023

Doug is at DFW for a meetup with our buddies at Nonrev Lounge Podcast. He also talks about flying the competition from Sacramento to Wichita and driving (?) to DFW. Drew's about to leave for Chicago to help improve a tool they use to manage the operation. We also discuss:
Word of the week: DOD - domestic object damage
Airlines are asked to reduce NYC flights due to ATC staffing issues
Delta posts a small loss but forecasts a strong Summer season
The Dutch government tries to limit traffic at AMS
We ask you what you'd choose as your hubs if you started an airline in North America
Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 176: How'd That Hub Get There? Apr 10, 2023

Drew gets coworkers from 4 departments together because teamwork makes the dream, and the operation, work. Doug is on break from flying the 777 - any withdrawal symptoms? We check on him and discuss:
Our word of the week - PACK
Airbus adds final assembly line in China
NASA names 4 astronauts for the Artemis II moon mission
How do airlines choose where to build hubs?
Our buddies at Nonrev Lounge podcast host a get together on April 14/15. Visit them on Instagram at @nonrevloungepodcast
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 175: ADIRUs Down Undah Apr 03, 2023

Doug is back from his first trip to Sydney, Australia and Drew is taking new hires on ramp tours. On this episode we discuss:
Aviation word of the week - ADIRU
Jetblue/Spirit merger update - hurry up and wait
Delta starts their Propel flight school
Transatlantic travel is growing
Indian aviation capacity to double by 2027
Artificial intelligence at the airlines
Join the discussion!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 174: Throttle Monkeys Mar 27, 2023

Doug is back from a fun, and tiring, family vacation in Disneyland and Drew spent another day at the Udvar-Hazy Aviation Museum in DC. How many trips must he make before he gets docent status and free parking? On this episode we discuss:
Aviation word of the week - TCAS
Archer Aviation’s Midnight eVTOL may have its first route - Downtown Chicago to O’Hare Airport
UPS and Fedex plan to retire their MD11’s
Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway are in talks to form a joint force of 250 combat aircraft
737 Max - the more things change the more they stay the same
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 173: Startups Mar 20, 2023

Doug is back from Kona and Denver and Drew had an unexpected deicing event, and major delays due to winds and a single runway operation, the next day. Also on this episode:
Aviation word of the week - RAT, ram air turbine
New Saudi airline RIA hopes to challenge the ME3
Flair Airlines 737s seized
Alaska's Northern Pacific first route is LAX to Las Vegas (?)
SFO runway incident
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 172: Engine Geek Mar 13, 2023

Greg, our buddy and show contributor, joins us to talk about aircraft engines - how they work, air-starts, and engine supply chain issues. He also is excited to be back in the aviaton industry with what could be his dream job. Doug regales us with a pilot memoir about his 2nd trip to Japan and reveals he’s a train (rail?) geek too. We also discuss:
The Department of Justice trys to block the Jetblue/Spirit merger
The Airport Service Quality Awards names the best airports for customer experience
An appeals court denies a lawsuit to force airlines to increase seat size
Reno Air Races will hold its final event September 13-17
http://airrace.org

Join the discussion!

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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 171: Inflation and Ticket Prices... and "Real" Dollars? Mar 06, 2023

Doug is back from his KC10 “fini” flight and Drew’s been spending time with visitors at DC aviation museums. Which one is best for avgeeks? Also:
We remember Susan Wright, “the mother of flight", on Women’s History Month
Drew quizzes Doug on business class cabin names
Central Asian traffic rises as Russian airspace is closed
Norse Air plans several US flights
Airline sign on bonuses are not just for pilots
Air fare trends over time

Join the conversation!
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Boarding Pass 170: Weight Restricted Feb 27, 2023

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Boarding Pass 169: The Return Home...to Japan! Feb 20, 2023

Doug takes his mom, Ruth, along for the ride to Japan where she was born. We talk about how it feels to be “back home" and how Japan is getting back to normal after Covid19. Also on this episode.
A quick history on balloons
Near misses and aviation safety
Airbus ramping up production
Historic Air India order
JFK Terminal 1 closure and diversions

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 168: Balloon(s?) Feb 13, 2023

Doug and Drew are back from trips in opposite directions. Doug flew to post-Covid Taipei as crew and Drew to Tenerife on a quick avgeek getaway with friends. We discuss our trips and:
Iberia still required masks onboard. Who else does?
White balloon shot down over the Atlantic
Another near miss, this time with a Fedex 767 and a Southwest 737 at Austin
Jetblue/Spirit merger update
ATC waypoints
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 167: Flight Planning Feb 06, 2023

Doug is flying to Taipei and Drew is off to Tenerife this week. We look at flight planning and considerations for turbulence and taking advantage of the jet stream to save time. Also:
The last 747 is delivered to Atlas
Super Bowl extra flights
Passenger bills of rights
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 166: Off to the Boneyard Jan 30, 2023

Drew is back from an Airport Ops conference and Doug flew a KC10 on its final flight. Drew talks about the need for widebodies to make better use of scarce pilot crews and slots at busy airports. Doug regales us with his recount of flying a KC10 low along a sunny California coast and then east to Tucson.
Also on this episode:
Boom Supersonic breaks ground on a factory in North Carolina
Sustainable Aviation Fuel or SAF will become more prevalent but it won’t be easy getting there.
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Boarding Pass 165: Stalls Jan 23, 2023

This episode is packed - we talk about the crash of a Yeti Airlines ATR72, a runway incursion at JFK, and what an aircraft stall is and how to avoid one. But wait there’s more - airport lounge access and hotel elite status, Lufthansa makes a bid for Italy’s ITA, and the “Continental Mafia”. Biscoff lovers wait until the end to hear our cookie rant!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 164: Low-Cost Extravaganza Jan 16, 2023

This episode is all about ULCC’s with Travis Christ, Head of Avelo Marketing, joining the show. We were supposed to fly on Avelo’s inaugural from Orlando to Dubuque, Iowa but the flight was canceled due to DBQ Airport still establishing their security plan. Avelo had an awesome recovery effort which led to Travis joining the show. He tells us all about the new airline and about his path from ramper to airline executive.

Doug and Drew proceed with our ULCC run with plans to fly Avelo soon. We take you along for the ride which in avgeek Morse code is:
SFO-EWR-MCO-BNA-CID-DEN-SFO.
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 163: Critical Points Jan 09, 2023

To divert or not to divert, that is the question for Doug and crew over the North Atlantic. Drew and Doug discuss diversion decisions from flight and station operations perspectives. On this episode we also discuss:
Cargo airlines lose some business with e-commerce coming off COVID highs
Southwest recovers from crew scheduling woes
Porter Airlines get its first EMB195-E2 with up to 100 more coming. We said the “E2" and the A220 would be big stories in 2023
California irrops with SFO diversions due to an “atmospheric river" of rains and a San Diego fuel shortage
Free Wi-Fi on Delta…is this a trend?

We end the episode with an email from listener, Gordon, about his trip on a Continental DC10 with a pub onboard for all customers.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 162: Southwest Jan 02, 2023

Doug and Drew have to split taping between 2 airline lounges as Doug travels home to California after check rides in Denver. This episode’s wifi issues can't hold us back from our last 2022 taping, making a 100% completion factor. Thank YOU for sticking with us!

In this episode:
Southwest's crew scheduling woes
Chat GPT can write 747 poems?
Our top stories of 2022
Our predictions of top stories of 2023
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 161: Airplane Popsicles Dec 26, 2022

We’ve talked about deicing planes before they takeoff but how do we keep them from turning into 737 popsicles when they’re sitting at the airport? Drew talks about processes to keep airplanes and ground equipment from freezing over before he goes in to deal with -1F temperatures. Doug is about to fly to Munich before Christmas Eve - will it be festive or sad? See the pictures below. Also on this episode:
Do civilians care if they are on a narrow or widebody plane?
Congress extends Boeing’s deadline to get the 737 Max 7 and 8 certified
SAS is back at JFK, with an A321, not a 747
This year’s busiest airports by aircraft movements and passenger volume
Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 160: (New) Planes, Planes, Planes, Planes, Planes, Planes...for EVERYBODY! Dec 19, 2022

Things didn’t go as planned for Doug or Drew this week with both grounded with health issues and full flights, respectively. Doug was sick at home, and Drew couldn’t get to Europe and visited the DC Air & Space museum instead. The podcast cheered us up though! On this episode we discuss:
Fuel shortages in Auckland and Florida
Boom has a plan for its SST engine - its complicated
United orders up to 200 787’s to replace older 767’s and 777’s
Air India is about to make a 500-plane order
Leisure travelers are filling seats normally filled by business travelers

This is our last episode before Christmas, so Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Happy Holidays everyone!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 159: Farewell Queen Dec 12, 2022

Doug is in Hawaii and Drew is in Charlotte, with our buddy Matt, who rejoins the show to rant with us on a multitude of topics. Did you know that Charlotte was the 5th busiest airport in the world in 2021 by numbers of flights, and that it is American Airlines’ 2nd largest connection hub. We talk about its history and its rise from a Piedmont Airlines station to a megahub. Also on this episode:
Boeing’s last 747 rolls out of the factory. We discuss some 747 memories
Airlines see profits returning for 2023
Delta pilots get a new contract and huge raise…but is it really?
Airlines and other airport lounge operators start adding restrictions to reduce crowding.

Come for the avgeek information, stay for the #MattRants!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 158: The Jakarta Incident Dec 05, 2022

Doug was in Hawaii for Thanksgiving but got out before Mauna Loa erupted. We discuss how volcanic ash affects aircraft engines and review some near-disasters where 747’s lost all 4 engines due to eruptions around the world. Also:
TSA screened over 2.5 million passengers last Sunday, the most since the start of the pandemic
Saudi Arabia announces the launch of RIA, a new airline based in Riyadh, to compete with the ME 3
New low fare airline Fly Atlantic will be based in Belfast, Northern Ireland and fly transatlantic
We look at the gaps in Boeing’s new product launches: 757 to 777 to 787 to ???.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 157: Single Pilot? Yeah... No Thanks Nov 28, 2022

The traffic is terrific as we roll into the holiday travel season. Doug is mixing work and pleasure on his trip while Drew is enjoying the week off. We discuss passenger volumes and how airlines hope to avoid the meltdowns we saw this summer. Also:
European carriers are looking to safely operate large jets with a single pilot
FAA creates guidelines for electrical air taxi
We look at the busiest routes this month around the world
Nonstop LAX to Singapore or 5 stops?
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 156: Home for the Holidays (Some of us at Least...) Nov 21, 2022

Doug and Drew ring in the holiday season with our rendition of Home for the Holidays - don’t worry, its just the first two verses. Where exactly was Karen Carpenter when she was singing about people coming and going through Pennsylvania for some homemade pumpkin pie? PHL, PIT, or MEM? We tank dive which airport she was in and which airline. Also on this episode.
The traffic is terrific - heavy load factors this week
How NOT to run a Winter Operation
Frontier’s Unlimited Flight Pass
5G interference with aircraft and radio altimeter replacements
Jetblue plans flights to Paris - bring on the A321XLR’s
Cathay Pacific starting to ramp up again
Air India brings Vistara and Air Asia India under its brand
Whether you’re connecting at PHL, ATL, DFW, or ORD for the holidays, you can’t beat home sweet home. Thanks for spending part of your holidays with us!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 155: Boeing and China Nov 14, 2022

Doug and Drew were on flip flop and laptop trips this week (we'll explain) with Doug being best man and wedding cruise director and Drew working LAX Ops. We also discuss:
ITA ownership and Italian government control
Boeing betting on China despite a trade war
Embraer 195-E2 vs 737 Max 7
We end the episode talking about how failures got us to where we are.
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 154: A.V. Geek? Nov 07, 2022

Doug and Drew are back to work with Drew hosting an avgeek group with the airport authority and Doug doing his last simulator ride on the KC10. Doug squeezes in a quick trip to see family and breaks his reluctance to use his standby airline travel benefits. Also in this episode.
Mexico’s president Obrador wants foreign airlines to compete for domestic traffic
Airbus makes the A350 cabin wider. Is 10 across coming?
Frontier, now free from merger talks, is interested in the A321XLR and international flights
Pilots at US carriers are demanding better pay and work rules

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 153: Eurotrip Oct 31, 2022

Doug and Drew, taping from a Houston airline lounge, are fresh off their excellent avgeek adventure to Europe. We’re excited to regale you with our stories about tailcams, nail-biting nonrev travel, Eurobiz, and Singapore Business Class. This whirlwind trip included flying on SAS to Copenhagen, then Manchester, and back to the US on Singapore Airlines. We enjoyed visiting and getting to know listeners in both cities. Thanks to Dominik and David for showing us around! We also discuss:
American removing international First Class
Is a 747-8 more efficient that a Toyota Corolla?
Fifth Freedom flights (We took one)

Join the fun!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 152: Turbulence! Oct 24, 2022

Drew’s flight instructor tells him to get ready to rock and roll with high winds. We discuss turbulence, crosswind landings, and “beating up” the pattern. We also discuss::
United, American, and Lufthansa earnings.
Cathay Pacific finally adding flights
Hawaiian operating freighters for Amazon
We end with a tease about our European trip next week.
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 151: Loyalty Oct 17, 2022

Drew is back from a Winter Ops meeting and Doug is at a nondescript hotel room (sound familiar) getting rested for a red eye flight. We talk about company loyalty and how it has changed over the years. The example we used was a listener poll on whether airlines should board employee standbys by time of check in or seniority. The answers will surprise you! We also discuss:
Delta third quarter results
United may order 100 widebodies
Why do airlines hold seats?
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 150: Oh, They're Out There... Oct 10, 2022

Doug see’s some strange lights on a red eye flight between SFO an EWR and other flights report the same. The FAA hasn’t come back with any confirmation so we have some fun with what we think they might be. Drew and Doug meet up at IAD to take a look at Drew’s workplace and Doug’s office (a 777 flight deck). Also on this episode:
IAD mobile lounges
Supply chain issues delaying Boeing and Airbus deliveries
FAA Category 1 and 2 airlines
FAA increases flight attendant minimum rest time to 10 hours from 9
Back to UFO’s which are now refured to as UAP’s - unidentified aerial phenomenon

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 149: It's Not Duct Tape Oct 03, 2022

This week our thoughts are with our listeners in Florida who are dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. We highlight NOAA and their work studying and other storms, to improve forecasts, and we take a close look at their Hurricane Hunter aircraft. Currently two Lockheed WP-3D aircraft named Kermit and Ms. Piggy are tasked with flying into the eye’s of storms. An engineer on one of the passes through Ian called it the worst flight he’s ever had in terms of turbulence! Other topics on this episode:
Virgin Atlantic finally joins SkyTeam
Sri Lanka starts to emerge out of a financial crisis with a new low fare airline - FITS Air
China Airlines of Taiwan confrms order for 16 787-9’s
Asia continues to open up with Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong lifting restrictions
JD Power releases its choices for the top 10 US mega airports

We end the episode with a tank dive into what speed tape is - don’t be afraid, it’s normal to see on aircraft.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 148: The Queue Sep 26, 2022

Leave it to our British friends to turn a line into an institution. We discuss The Queue to pay last respects to Queen Elizabeth and guess what? There's an aviation tangent. Drew regales Doug with his trip to LAX via Fargo and LAX to DC via Maui (it's complicated). Also on this episode:
Cargo traffic declines while passenger loads stay strong
FAA upholds 1,500 hour requirement for pilots to fly for scheduled carriers
IATA kicks EWR out of the NYC airports designation

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 147: The Holy Trinity Sep 19, 2022

World traveler and friend of the show, Ian, joins us to talk about frequent flier programs and the benefits of having status on multiple airlines. He mentions the “holy trinity” 🤣 of the Star Alliance, oneworld, and Skyteam and being elite on all three.

We also discuss whether Boom's Overture will go forward after Rolls Royce announced they’re leaving the project, the rise in business travel, and the United/Emirates partnership.

Find Ian on Instagram at @iandeyoung
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 146: Unplugged Sep 12, 2022

We're semi-unplugged this week with Doug taping with his cellphone from a layover hotel room. Forgive us for too much realness on this MacGyver'ed episode. Drew gives an update on private pilot training and Doug is back from a 2nd LHR trip.

We discuss what rights you have when your flight cancels. Surprise, you will get less from ULCC's (ultra low cost carriers). The DOT hss created a dashboard to help you fund the answers at:

Customer Sevice Dashboard

Other topics on this episode:
Lufthansa avoids a pilot strike
Cathay Pacific is hiring again
US airline traffic is back to pre-Covid levels while China struggles with lockdowns
Descending into London, quietly, using CDA
We end the show with listener comments regarding last week's discussion on the Flight 1's around the world.
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 145: Eefrow Sep 05, 2022

Doug has the smoothest flight ever to Eefrow (London Heathrow) and Drew is planning to fill in as ops manager at SFO where his airline career started. Doug’s flight from SFO to LHR carries the legacy of Pan Am flight 1 which flew the route in the 90’s. Pan Am flight 1 of yore flew around the world in 1947. We discuss the other “Flight 1’s” of the world which represent several airline’s most prestigious routes. Also on the episode:
United and Emirates plan a possible codeshare agreement
Italy’s ITA gets bought out by an Air France/Delta and a private equity firm
A Cessna 172 flew from California to Honolulu nonstop
China Airlines orders the Boeing 787 for the first time
We finish the episode with a go-around on why most airliners are low wing and we share listener comments and questions.
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 144: Winging It Aug 29, 2022

High wing or low wing, what’s better and what’s the difference? We discuss that, trying to sleep during a 3 hour break on an 11 hour flight (spoiler…it’s hard), and a glass cockpit in a Cessna 172. Also:
Sizing airlines by available seat miles
Inflation is easing and so are ticket prices
Frontier is free from merger shackles with Spirit and plans for huge growth
Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 143: You'll Take What's Available Aug 22, 2022

This week’s show has an airport theme with our buddy Francis, an airport ops supervisor, joining us for the 2nd time. Francis explains airport classifications, signage, and how they deal with diversions. We also dicuss:
American Airlines joining the list of customers for the Boom SST
Why tarmacs are made of asphalt or concrete

We end with a quick lesson on airport signage and lighting that will raise your avgeek credentials.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 142: A Walk Down Memory Taxilane Aug 15, 2022

Doug and Drew meet up in California and tape in person. Drew takes Doug to Concord Buchanan Airport where he started his aviation career as a lineserviceman. Doug tells us about his first charter flight and how being on reserve is like nonreving for your job. Also on this episode:
The Jetblue/Spirit merger and ticket prices
We meet up with Nate of “In the Air” on Youtube for spotting

We spend a lot of time bantering with each other, and you, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip, the Next Trip!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 141: Northern Lights... In the Summer! Aug 08, 2022

Doug embarks on his Atlantic IOE with a flight to Frankfurt that is pure aviation magic from two sunsets, during takeoff, and a rare view of the aurora borealis on a summertime flight. Drew might be changing from Team Piper to Team Cessna with a new instructor and flight school. A Cessna with a low budget “EICAS” system…whaaat? Also:
In-class vs. in-the-field training
787 deliveries are starting up again
Forget hate-selling, BA is “not-selling” tickets on LHR short haul
FAA asks for public comment on airline seat size

We end with listener question what to where inflight in case of an emergency. Our answers may shock you.

Join the conversation!

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Boarding Pass 140: Is the Recovery Stabilizing? Aug 01, 2022

Are we seeing aviation stabilizing as airlines hire workers back and the travel surge starts to ease? We discuss positive trends we’re seeing in the supply chain, load factors, and our daily work life. Also on this episode:
The Spirit merger
Toronto Pearson Airport struggles with explosive travel growth
Boeing forecasts the global air fleet to double in the next 20 years
Engine failures on a 777 and a Piper Warrior

We end the show answering some great questions about LCC’s, pilot training, and diversions from our listeners.
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 139: Summer Travel Jul 25, 2022

Summer travel is in full swing and so are Doug with a family vacation, and Drew with a busy airport operation. We give you tips on how to avoid drama at the airport by planning ahead. Get there early, have back up plans, use the airline apps, and check the FAA's National Airspace System Status to avoid problem airports.

Also on this episode:
The Boom Overture SST makes progress
Alaska launches electronic bag tags in the US
Piper Warrior and Boeing 777 takeoff procedures

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 138: Skynest Jul 18, 2022

Would you pay extra to use a flat bed on a long flight? Air New Zealand thinks you will with their Skynest which are 6 stacked bunks mid cabin. We discuss this and commiserata about both of our crazy work days negotiating East Coast thunderstorms and a pigeon (?). Drew is hitting the private pilot training books and Doug has a previous KC10 pilot and coworker jumpseating on his flight. Also on this episode:
The Jetblue and Fronter merger courtship of Spirit continues
Heathrow turning away passengers?
Airline pilots seeking, and getting, raises
Airlines fined for improper passenger travel documents

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 137: Frontier 1.0 and Leisure Suits Jul 11, 2022

Matt joins us for the third time and is now an official co-host! His love for aviation started as a nonrev flying on his dad’s benefits on the original Frontier. He then went from ramper, to operations agent, to zone controller, to customer service supervisor, and finally to travel agent. He regales us with stories from when suits were required for employees. We also discuss:
Travel chaos from Sydney to Amsterdam as airlines cope with heavy traffic
SAS files for bankruptcy
Singapore Airlines North America service tops pre-CovidTWA Museum in Kansas City

We end the episode quizzing Matt on weird reservations terms. Ever heard of an open jaw ticket, skiplagging, and married segments? It’s all in this fun filled episode
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 136: Crew Scheduling: We Need You... 20 Min Ago Jul 04, 2022

Happy 4th of July to our American listeners! On this holiday weekend Doug gets a call to fly to Taiwan, 20 minutes after the check-in time, to cover a 777 first officer opening. We tape with Doug in a glorified hotel “jail” cell in Taipei with the country still under severe Covid-19 restrictions. We talk about Doug’s trip to Asia, Drew’s “seconds to cancelation” story about how everything has to come together in Airport Ops to get a flight out of the gate and off the ground. We also discuss:
The A380’s are making a triumphant comeback with Lufthansa and Korean dusting off the “Supers”
The JetBlu/Frontier/Spirit telenovela continues with Spirit extending the shareholder vote date to July 8
We discuss another poll on how you choose a flight, this time when money is no object. Drew is upset with the results….again

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 135: Trust Us, We're All Trying! Jun 27, 2022

Just off our Boeing 777 and Piper Warrior flights we are pumped up and ready to talk aviation! Doug gets to fly a frequent flier across the 4 million mile mark and Drew gets comfortable with Warrior landing patterns and touch and goes. We then dive into:
A listener’s poll about how you decide on what ticket to buy (price, schedule, service?)
Jetblue increases its offer for Spirit
US Transportation Secretary asks airlines to do better
Air India is in talks to buy 300 narrowbodies and 50 A350’s
Skywest forms charter subsidiary to fly 30-seat planes with lower pilot requirements
Pre-cleared cities

We end with a listener’s love-hate relationship with his hometown airline, Norwegian.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 134: Doug Flies the 777! Jun 20, 2022

Doug is fresh off his first 777 flight with a trip from San Francisco to Honolulu, to Guam, and back. Drew has a bunch of questions for Doug on the 777 and the airports he visited, and has his own story flying the other end of the spectrum - a single engine Piper Warrior. Other topics on this episode:
Biden Administration lifts the testing requirement to travel to the US
Jetblue/Spirit/Frontier merger triangle drama continues
The new Air Force One will not have the Trump inspired dark livery - we’ll tell you why
We do a tank dive on TWA and its merger with AA after you asked or it

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 133: Kentucky to California Jun 13, 2022

Drew heads out to California with Next Trip contributor, Greg from Kentucky, while Doug waits to fly the 777. We discuss Kentucky aviation and our crazy trip out to LAX which involved a few changes due to full flights everywhere. Greg talks about Cincinnati, Ohio’s airport, CVG, which is actually in Kentucky, the large cargo hub at Louisville, and the lack of air service at Lexington. We also discuss:
Jetblue sweetens the pot with a better offer for Spirit
Is it time to make airplanes wider?

Join the conversation!
Follow Greg on Twitter at @gpetelex or on Instagram at gwpet01
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 132: CRM Jun 06, 2022

Doug is still waiting to be called to work his first 777 flight and Drew gets some family time in between crazy busy operations shifts. Busy or not, we always find time for our avgeek podcast break. Speaking of work and pleasure, what’s a good term for a combination business/leisure trip? Bleisure, Lisness, WFV (working from vacation)? We share your great ideas.

What is CRM, crew resource management, and how does it apply in any work environment, not just on the flight deck?

Also on this show:
Cancelations and delays rise around the world as the recovery hits roadblocks
Norwegian settles a contract dispute with Boeing and orders 50 737 MAX 8’s

We do a go-around on our 767-400 story from last week with some added fun facts

We end the show with a great question about regional airlines from Drew’s flight instructor Kathleen and a big thank you to flight attendants around the world for your hard work. Happy International Flight Attendants Day!

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 131: Why Not the 767-400? May 30, 2022

Doug is going stir crazy at home waiting for “the call”, with his first 777 assignment, and Drew is trying to keep the operation from getting crazy with 4 ramp closures for lightning within a few hours. To get our minds off our week, we obsess about why the 767-400 wasn’t successful with only 37 built. We continue our discussion about a new “Golden Age” of aviation with Bombardier flight testing the Global 8000, which will be the fastest passenger airplane, and the growth of luxurious airport lounges. Also on this episode:
Lufthansa partnering with MSC to buy 80% of ITA, the successor to Alitalia
We make a whole segment out of a listener comparison of European and US premium products - thanks Guy!

Check out this great historical lounge overview by Lounge Review.

https://loungereview.com/the-use-of-airline-lounges-as-a-marketing-tool-history-and-innovation/

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 130: Alliances May 23, 2022

What was the first airline alliance - was it STAR, NW/KL, oneworld, Wings? We discuss international alliances that help improve revenues and ease passenger connectivity across carriers. Also, we believe we may be entering a new Golden Age of Aviation with supersonic airliners running on sustainable fuel, electric sea gliders, and airlines competing on improved passenger experience. Doug waits for the call to fly his first 777 and Drew has a busy week with flight training, irregular ops at work, and two Next Trip listeners visiting. Other topics:
jetBlue is at it again, now with a hostile takeover bid for Spirit
EU drops its mask mandate but Italy and Spain keep masks on plane
US airlines continue to press for lifting testing requirements to enter the country
FAA still needs more data before Boeing 787 deliveries can resume
China Eastern plane may have been intentionally crashed

We finish the show answering great questions from listeners regarding passenger experience on the 787 and 777, Eurobiz, and possible new mid-continent airline hubs.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 129: EuroBiz May 16, 2022

What's better, having a middle seat open, lounge access, and high quality meals, or a bigger seat? We discuss Eurobiz vs US domestic First. Other topics on this episode:
Non-pairwise widebodies…what are they?
Japan may open to tourists
Fedex gets it’s first SkyCourier - weird but functional
Republic Airways asks for minimum new pilots hours of 750 vs 1,500
WN improves inflight product
Avianca and GOL try to team up
Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 128: Project Sunrise May 09, 2022

Drew is fresh off his third private pilot training flight so get ready for more small plane pilot memoirs. Doug is more excited about Drew’s business trip and asks him if it was better than Zoom - spoiler…..uhhh YES!! Also on this episode:
Qantas orders the A350-1000 to launch Project Sunrise nonstop flights between Sydney and London and New York
Spirit rejects jetBlue's offer to merge
Airlines offer reduced price or free wifi. Does wifi or messaging affect which airline you choose
The FAA's confusing new aircraft wake turbulence categories

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 127: Bigfoot May 02, 2022

We’re going from Guppies (737’s) to Bigfoot (777) as Doug finishes 777 training. One of the striking features of the 777 is its huge main landing, the largest on any aircraft. We dig into landing gear and getting aircraft on the ground vs. off the ground on this episode. Other topics discussed
Drew flies jetBlue Mint for the first time

Delta flight attendants start getting paid during boarding

Is the A220 the 787 of long, thin domestic routes. Breeze starts A220 transcon flights
ANA says outlook for air travel in Japan is improving

We end the show sharing listener comments on flying on the 747, getting through Amsterdam Schipol Airport, and airline boarding cutoff times.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 126: Back to Normal Apr 25, 2022

We’re partying like its 2019! Load factors and fares are up as Americans throw off their masks and head back to the skies as COVID19 wanes. We go through the spreadsheets as the major US carriers reveal their 1st quarter results. We also talk about Russia cranking up the TU-214, cough Russian 757, and IL96-300, cough Russian A340, production lines.

In our pilot and airport memoirs we talk about Doug’s 777 training and Drew’s airport operation which changes drastically when load factors increase from 75% to over 90%.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 125: Middle East Airlines are Back! Apr 18, 2022

Next Trip was the #1 aviation podcast in Dubai this week so who better to have on this episode than the #1 avgeek in Dubai? Return guest, Roxi or @roxavgeek on Instagram and Twitter, is a flight attendant for a Dubai based carrier and also has a large following as an aviation influencer. Traffic is up 215% in the Middle East and we ask Roxi if it seems like the area is beyond COVID. She also recaps the Dubai Airshow for us since she was attending the event when we taped before. Also on this episode:
Doug starts his 777 flight simulator training
Drew gets audited by an express carrier
Denver over Dubai - US airports were 8 of 10 of the busiest last year
We’re airline employees - what are we thinking when we fly other airlines?

We end the show with your questions for Roxi on aircraft and aviation. Did you stump her? You gotta listen!

Join the conversation!
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https://www.roxavgeek.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 124: jetBlue Crashes the Party Apr 11, 2022

Move over Frontier, jetBlue also has its eye on Spirit and makes a bid to buy it. Of course we have opinions on this - would a jetBlue/Spirit merger help or complicate jetBlue’s current operational issues? Would the cost of reconfiguring all of Spirit’s aircaft be worth it? Would the merger be denied because the two control so much New York to Florida traffic? Listen to what we think jetBlue’s master plan may be. Drew talks about Mainline and Express and how branding and customer products are similar but flight operations and dispatch are separate.
IATA’s Summer and Winter seasons and slot allocations
Cathay Pacific resumes pilot cadet training program
Phillipine Airlines aims to be in Asia’s top 3

We end the episode laughing about how Condor’s new livery is so bad,…it’s good. Listen to find out why.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 123: Cargo Airline Truck Driving, Agriculture Aviation Major, Lifelong AvGeek Apr 04, 2022

Longtime listener and avgeek friend Ryan joins us to talk about changing lanes in his aviation career. Ryan has been an avgeek his whole life and had dreams of being a pilot or working for the airlines. His road took him to driving trucks for a major cargo airline and loving his quality of life in a “flyover'“ state. Doug starts the transition from the 737 to the 777 and Drew talks about running a busy hub operation this week. We also discuss:
Fedex and American Airlines have leadership changes
Elroy Air is developing an unmanned eVTOL aircraft to fly cargo distances of 300 mile
Listener Poll: Would you rather fly an A350 to Singapore nonstop or an A380 with a stop?

Find ryan at @plainsandplanes on Twitter and Instagram.

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 122: Russia, China, Delta, Frontier and a Whole Lot More... Mar 28, 2022

Pilot memoirs continue with Doug doing his last 737 flights, before going to 777 training, and Drew regales you with his second Piper Warrrior flight above the DC Area. Topics covered:

FAA increasing reviews of midair collision warnings
China Eastern Flight 5735 crash update
Russia creates its own laws for aircraft leased from other countries
CEO of Spirit and Frontier says they have 2,000 market opportunities
Boeing in talks with DL for huge 737 Max order
Canada drops COVID19 testing requirement. C’mon USA

We end the show answering lister Noah’s questions about ATC ground delay programs and Drew talks about listeners also starting their prival pilot journey.

Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 121: First Flight! Mar 21, 2022

Drew finally has his first private pilot training flight and, as expected, it was amazing. Doug enjoys his last few weeks on the 737 before 777 training next month. We both talk about last week’s busy operation with full flights during and weather issues around the country. Topics on the episode:
Staying calm and professional in stressful situations
Travel and airline profits are rising despite high fuel costs
777’s with PW4000 engines will be cleared to fly again soon
Mask mandates keep lifting with the latest being on UK airlines
Drew responds to a listener question about plane changes

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 120: Airplane Repo Mar 14, 2022

We start with positive news of countries opening back up to international travel and Drew’s trip to Chicago. Other topics discussed:
Aerflot suspends all international flights
Airlines find routes around Russia
IATA opposes bans on parts shipments to Russian Airlines
ANA creating a low fare carrier called Air Japan

We end with a light-hearted ranking of all the annoying passenger types. Doug might be the small bladder passenger and Drew is definitley chatty Cathy.
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 119: Mriya Mar 07, 2022

Russia continues its invasion of Ukraine, affecting millions of people. Sanctions against Russia are coming from all angles and we discuss how aviation is affected. We end with some positive news on COVID19 with infections declining and masks coming off everywhere - even on some planes. Other topics on this episode:
Two Russian planes trying to enter Canadian airspace are turned back while one flight, SU111 flies over Canada declaring that it’s a humanitarian flight. Transport Canada is investigating
Nigeria Air may be the name of Nigeria’s national airline but few details exist
We discuss recent airspace closures in the Middle East and Asia
We explain how runways are configured - its complicated
Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 118: Australia is Open for Business! Feb 28, 2022

The world is starting to open up but will Russia’s invasion of Ukraine change everything? We discuss the breaking news of countries closing their airspace to Russia and the unfortunate destruction of the heaviest airplane in the world, the Antonov 225, Myria. We get a lot of feedback from you regarding the use of the term “gas” versus “fuel”, you do a deeper dive into our Flyover States segment, and you offer more airports named after famous people in your neck of the “tarmac”. Also on this episode:
Marriot doubles revenue despite Omicron
Will there be a major travel and tourism recovery this year
We discuss high winds in our Ops Center topic

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 117: Flyover States? Nah, we Love Everyone... Feb 21, 2022

Doug and Drew meet up in DC with Doug picking up an SFO-DCA trip before he leaves the 737. Doug tells Drew his route was over some "flyover states" so we research where the term came from. Drew regales you with the history of College Park Airport which he lives by and we discus airports named after presidents on this President's Day episode. Other topics:
Boeing’s new middle market plane's size
Mesa Airlines invests in seaplane startup, Regent
We end the episode with a look into where the word cockpit comes and whether flight deck is a better term...and is it "in" or "on" the flight deck?
Join the conversation! https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 116: Nonrev Lounge Crossover Pt. 1 Feb 14, 2022

Welcome to our first crossover episode with another aviation podcast, Nonrev Lounge. NonRev Lounge is hosted by Tyler who works ramp, his sister Monique who’s a gate agent, and their friend Lara, a flight attendant and a previous guest on our show. Today we have Tyler guest hosting the show with two other avgeek friends, Greg and Nate. We’re taping from SFO where we’ve met to spot planes and participate in some major avgeekery.

This is a two part episode with this being Part 1 and Part 2 airing tomorrow, February 15th, on Nonrev Lounge. Be sure to check them out right after this and subcribe to their podcast. Nonrev lounge is focused on travel and their exciting jobs working for a major airline with a hub at Phoenix.

Topics in this episode
How we all got to SFO
Spirt and Frontier to tie the knot
Northern Pacific Airways recreating Icelandair’s model in Anchorage
Tyler, Doug, and Drew talk about why they work in aviation

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 115: Qatar's Rebound Relationship Feb 07, 2022

We keep our pilot memoirs and deice diaries short today after some mixed feedback. Who are we kidding?? Doug talks about his trip to Honduras and happening to be there for their presidential inauguration. Drew talks about running it hard with a full schedule during the Nor'easter. Also:
China Airlines 747 ingested an LD3 container
Boeing 787 delivery delays
COVID travel rules rekaxed in Europe
Wall Street Journal's best and worst airlines
We end with an update on the aviation telenovela between Airbus and Qatar airlines regarding peeling paint on A350's.
Join the conversation
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 114: Cities that Changed Your Life Jan 31, 2022

Doug’s pilot memoir this week is his return to the KC10 after several months. Was it like riding a bike? We talk about the KC10’s successor, the KC46 Pegasus, based on a 767-200 with a 767-400 flight deck. Does it measure up to the KC10 Extender? Also on this episode:

The UK relaxes COVID19 documentation requirements

Air India returns to the Tata Group after 69 years

Lufthansa and Air France push back on the EU’s climate plans

US retaliates against China by blocking flights after China’s regulations against US flights

We end the episode with a fun discussion on things people say that make avgeek’s twitch. British Airlines? QUANTAS? 787-900?
Join the conversation!
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https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 113: Narrow-Body Game Changer? Jan 24, 2022

DC gets an another big snowstorm and Drew tells Doug, whatever you do, don’t connect through DC! Guess what Doug does? We got a chance to meet up and Doug got to see Drew’s deice operation in person. Our first topic is one we both are experts at - airline seats. With narrow-bodies doing more international routes, a new “Butterfly” seat, which converts from 2 standard domestic first seats to 1 international lie-flat seat, may be the answer. We also discuss:
Airlines panic about the introduction of 5G in the US and its possible affects
The pandemic is becoming an endemic and will still weigh on airline profits
An idea for resolving the airline pilot shortage - raise the maximum age to 75
European airlines say that they are flying empty planes to maintain slots. Is it true?

We end with another airine and wine piece, this time with a New Zealand airline started by a winery. A Saab 340 regional airline that’s focused on a beverage? We have concerns!

Join the convsersation:

Next Trip Network

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 112: It Was the Asphalt Jan 17, 2022

From Martin Luther King Day, to Sidney Poitier, to United product placement, to DC8's to Hawaii? Stay with us…and yes, everything leads to aviation. We look at how far (or not) we’ve come from the DC8. Also on this episode:
SST updates on Boom Overture and NASA's X59 QueSST
Airport 5g buffer zones
A380/747-8 replacements?

We end with our favorite avgeek dad jokes. We apologize in advance.

Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 111: Arrivalgate Jan 10, 2022

We start the show sharing how busy our weeks were with snow on the East Coast and in the Midwest. Drew discusses deicing challenges with moderate to heavy snow and Doug talks about how weather issues around the sytem are constantly changing his flying schedule. Drew explores going back to pilot school to get his private pilot's license with Doug encouraging him that its never too late to learn. Also on this episode:
2021 was the safest year for flying since 2017
Airlines cancel over 1,000 flights per day for the 11th straight day
Allegiant buys 50 new 737 Max jets
Kenya Airways and South African Airways may join forces
5g rollout delayed due to FAA concerns about interference with avionics

We end the show with Drew answering a listener question about how arrival gates are chosen.

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 110: AvGeek Bill of Rights Jan 03, 2022

We dive into the new year with our predictions for the top aviation stories of 2022. Our main topic is the 777 and its ups and downs, pun intended, with PW4000 777’s expected to return service while the 777x sees certification delays. We end the episode with our “demands” in our Avgeek Bill of Rights. Other topics discussed:
Our last flights of 2021
Omicron hits crews and causes cancelations
Indonesia and Ethiopia approve 737 Max operations
The GE90-94B reaches 100,000 flight hours

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 109: Wining into the New Year Dec 27, 2021

We love airplanes and we love flying...especially with a nice glass of wine to enjoy our trip. We end the year talking about how airlines choose the varieties they serve. Also in this episode:
Doug flies the 737-700 hot rod
Drew works on getting thousands home for the holidays
Omicron is dampening hopes for a fast recovery
Phillipine Airlines restructures
We ask you: was the A380 a success or a failure?
Join the conversation! https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 108: Travel Benefits Dec 20, 2021

We talk about our busy weeks as we help move thousands of people the week before Christmas. We give our listeners tips on how to score airline and hotel perks to take take your avgeek travel up a notch. Other topics discussed:
Boom Aerospace negotiating with Greensboro Airport for a manufacturing site for the supersonic Overture airliner
United to order zero-emission hydrogen electric engines to retrofit on regional aircraft
American hiring 18,000 employees in 2022
Will Omicron set back air travel's recovery?
Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 107: Social Cargo Pilots Dec 13, 2021

Christmas is only 2 weeks away and airlines are busy carrying millions of packages around the world. What better time to have two cargo pilots on? Think cargo employees are introverts? Think again because these guys, our buddies Matt and Stephen, are a plane load of fun.
Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 106: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back? Dec 06, 2021

We review Thanksgiving week traffic and congratulate the airlines on a smooth operation with few cancelations. Topics covered:
Traffic is back but the Omicron variant could change everything

Some countries start closing borders to international traffic

Business travel is on the road to recovery

We note several aircraft with wingspans greater than their lengths.

Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 105: A Phenom(enal) Pilot Nov 29, 2021

We welcome our first corporate aviation employee, Embraer Phenom 300 pilot, Sean. We knew that corporate flying was different from the airlines but we were impressed with all the additional functions Sean does. This includes creating his own flight plans, doing the passenger safety briefing, fueling his own plane, and even serving cocktails when needed. He discusses the perks and challenges in his career and how he loves how unpredicatable his work day can be.

Other topics:
Airbus gets its first orders for the A350F freighter which will compete with the 777-200F
The recent rise in passengers choosing to fly chartered jets over commercial
We discuss a listener poll about whether you would choose First Class on a 777 or a chartered Phenom 300 to get from LAX to DFW

Thanks for joining the conversation and stay aviationTOUGH.
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 104: Holiday Travel Takes Off Nov 22, 2021

We're approaching the busy travel season in the US with TSA passenger screenings nearing 2019 levels. Doug and Drew will be in the thick of it, working to get some of the 5 million travelers to their destinations safely. We ask you, our listeners, to guess what the highest daily total of passengers screened in the US will be during the Thanksgiving holiday travel week. The listener who guesses closest will get some Next Trip swag. Get your answer to us by Wednesday, November 24, 10:00a eastern US time, Submit your answer via the Contact button on www.nexttripnetwork.com or via Instagram or Twitter direct message.
Topics Discussed:
Singapore Airlines has most of its fleet ready for the upcoming rebound
Chnia's CAAC satisfied with 737 Max updates
Airbus gets commitments for the A350F freighter version
Airlines offer staff holiday incentives to come to work
Doug and Drew talk about airline employee scheduling
We thank you for listening to the podcast and joining the coversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 103: All Runways Lead to Dubai Nov 15, 2021

Special guest, international Dubai-based flight attendant and avgeek Roxi, joins us and explains her path from Europe to Dubai and from Law and Criminology to Aviation. She’s been an avgeek her whole life and now she’s living her dream traveling the world and becoming an aviation social media celebrity. We chat about her favorite aircraft, the Boeing 777 (Booboo) and the Airbus A380 (Fluffy), and her participation in the Dubai Airshow.

Topics discussed:
Doug gets to fly to Hawaii
Roxi sat in the jumpseat on her first flight
We compare the 777 and the A380 from business and passenger perpectives
Our thoughts on national and international no-fly lists
Roxi talks about living in Dubai

Find Roxi on Instagram and Twitter at @roxavgeek and on her blog www.roxavgeek.com. Join the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 102: Supply Chain and Aviation Nov 08, 2021

Doug and Drew are back from their avgeek trip and getting back to their normal format. In this episode they discuss:
The Boeing 787 celebrating its 10th anniversary
SkyWest and American cancelations
The US opening up to travel from Europe
Supply chain issues and how they affect airlines
We end with a debate on how to pronounce SFO and other city codes. Yes, there's a poll of course!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 101: AvGeek Bonanza Nov 01, 2021

Come along with Doug and Drew on a 26-hour avgeek marathon trip from San Francisco (Burlingame) to New York (Elizabeth) and back. We're celebrating getting to 100 episodes last week with a widebody transcon, premium economy, a great walk and brunch in NYC, airline lounges, and domestic first class. We tape on our trip so enjoy background lounge and engine noises and listen to us staying high energy with little sleep.
On the trip we discuss:

Both our airline careers starting at SFO. #Airline101
The 777-300 and if the 777-8X should have been launched as its successor before the -9X
Doug talks about landing in high winds after a sporty 777 touchdown at EWR
We discuss whether the A220-300 with 130 seats is an A319 killer
Drew is impressed by the expansion of SLC and reminisces about his first flights here, connecting from a 767 to an L1011 Tristar
We wrap up thanking you for coming along for the ride and getting us past 100 episodes!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 100: The Centennial! Oct 25, 2021

Doug and Drew make it to 100 episodes! We reminisce about how it started and how we really are creating a community of aviation and travel enthusiasts.
We're joined by three avgeek friends and listeners who've been with us from the start. They show their appreciation of the show by roasting us and boy were they mean (in the nicest way possible).
We end the show by teasing our 26 hour avgeek marathon trip next week.
Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 099: Learning to fly the 737 (With Passengers) Oct 18, 2021

Doug flies the 737 for the first time, with passengers, and gets a red carpet welcome at Drew's airport. We review Doug's first airline work trip from takeoff at SFO, across the country, and back.
Other topics discussed

Southwest cancelations
The Tata's come full circle and regain ownership of Air India
Delta makes a profit
United adds flights

We end the episode with our plan for a marathon 24hr avgeek trip to celebrate our 100th episode!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 098: Cross-Check and All-Call Complete Oct 11, 2021

We welcome our first flight attendant on the show, Lara, who's career began when America West founder, Ed Beauvais, asked her to come work for him when she was mowing the lawn. We ask her all about her career including how she gets sleep in other time zones, whether she prefers working in First Class or Main Cabin, and what all those chimes mean. You gotta hear her story!
Lara discusses the expansion of Premium Economy with us, Drew remembers his days at America West, and Doug finally gets the call to fly the 737.
Join the conversation:
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 097: Travel Agent AvGeek and a National No-Fly List Oct 04, 2021

Doug and Drew are joined by Avgeek Travel Agent and LAX Dorkfest friend Eric. Eric's flexible schedule allows him to fly on inauagural and final flights and his stories make the rest of us avgeeks with regular jobs jealous. He tells us about how he got into aviaton and how he is finding a niche being a travel agent as the profession has gone through a downturn.
We also discuss:

LAX announced they will test a new earthquake early warning system
United fined for long tarmac delays
Delta wants airlines to share their no-fly lists
Listener poll - should there be a federal no-fly list?

Join the conversation at
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 096: Does a Layover Count? Sep 27, 2021

Drew is back from LAX Dorkfest and Doug turns a wor trip into his own spotting getaway at SFO.
Also on this episode

Study finds PCR tests are almost 100% accurate
US lifts travel restrictions on several countries
Criminal indictment for Boeing technical pilot
AA/JetBlue alliance
Emirates hiring 3,000 cabin crew
Does visiting an airport count as visiting that city?

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 095: The Guppy Mill and LAX Dorkfest Sep 20, 2021

On this episode Doug and Drew discuss:

Doug getting his 737 certification
Drew caters HNL with schnitzel and strudel?
Drew's routing to Dorkfest
LAX traffic volumes rising
Sustainable fuels are coming
JFK or LAX, what's better for spotting

Join the conversation at:
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 094: Bold Predictions Sep 13, 2021

On this episode we discuss:

Doug getting his 737 type rating
Neeleman and his non-737 airline Breeze
787 deliveries delayed due to FAA inspections
Ryanair walks away from 737 Max order
American and Alaska end pay protections for unvaxed staff
Next Trip air travel volume predictions

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 093: Upset Recoveries Sep 06, 2021

On this episode, Doug and Drew discuss the following:

Upset recoveries
AvGeek bubble baths in Burlingame, CA
Airports named after a city they're not located in (or near)
Cargo CRJ-200
Philippine Airlines bankruptcy
Gulfstream's new G700
Grounded PW4000 powered 777s are getting new paint - hopefully flying soon
Would you rather fly the first 777 delivered or a swanky new 787-10
Remembering the crews lost on September 11, 2001

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 092: Welcome to America Aug 30, 2021

In this episode we discuss:

Afghanistan CRAF charters
Will holograms replace travel?
Escape Lounges opening
Southwest running it hard
Ryanair traffic and leaving Belfast

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 091: CRAF, USTRANSCOM, AMC & ACARS Aug 23, 2021

Topics discussed on this episode:

ACARS air to ground communications
ITA replaces Alitalia
CRAF is activated to move US citizens and Afghans out of Kabul
Doug and Drew on how to get into an aviation career
You know you work for an airline when...

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 090: World's Top Airports Aug 16, 2021

Drew continues to run the operation hard this week while Doug flies the 737 simulator and takes a 777 joy ride to visit Houston which was voted the top US airport.
Topics discussed:

Load factors are decreasing to more sustainable/manageable levels
737 landings
More jumpseating and more chicken orzo
Delta variant is hurting Southwest's bookings
Business travel slowly rebounding
Potential 737 MAX deal for Indian startup
JetBlue launches London service
Skytrax list of top airports in the world and in the U.S.
Two-hour domestic widebody

Join the conversation at
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 089: Jumpseats, Meltdowns, and Fort Myers? Aug 09, 2021

On this episode, Doug and Drew discuss the following:

Doug's jumpseat observation rides
Newark, NJ as a destination
Nonrev troubles
Spirit and American cancel thousands of flights
United to require vaccinations for all employees
GE CF-6 engine celebrates 50 years
Listener feedback

Join the conversation
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 088: Fat Little Ugly Fellow? Aug 02, 2021

On this episode, Doug and Drew discuss the following topics:

Managerial training (Drew lets someone else drive the bus for a few days)
Doug is leaving the 737 aka Guppy/FLUF/Whistling Sh!tcan already?!
Checking to see if you were listening
Ironman is back at LAX
Western U.S. fuel shortage
Condor replaces its aging 767s
Airbus launches the A350 freighter
Would you take a middle seat "upgrade?"
Which plane looks better - the 757 or the A220?
Checking to see if you were listening part 2
Our next trip...

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 087: Southern Comfort Jul 26, 2021

Doug jumps out of a plane (or a mockup of one) and Drew avgeeks with previous Next Trip guest Matt this weekend. A commemorative coin from Matt celebrating Piedmont Airlines is an inspiration for our topics today.
On this episode, Doug and Drew discuss:

Experiencing an airplane escape slide
Cocktails, Thai food, and A319s
Billionaires in Space
World airline rankings
Positive quarterly financial results in the U.S.
Charlotte, NC is now the 5th busiest airport in the world?
Remembering Piedmont Airlines

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 086: Same Day Service Jul 19, 2021

On this episode, Doug and Drew discuss the following:

Why the episode is late (and why it might continue to be late in the future now)
Pilot shortage and why it matters
Doug's new job and why that relates to late episodes (and possibly extra sections - BONUS eps!)
Listener engagement
Airlines need LOTS of new employees
Electric regional props?
Airlines now turning a profit...get used to it
737 appreciation week (and month or year?)

Be sure to check out www.nexttripnetwork.com for more information!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 085: Dust Storm! Jul 12, 2021

On this episode, Doug and Drew discuss the following:

Doug's last week as a "civilian"
Drew's flights to PHX
Listener Ian's multiple "round the world" flights
Airliners International trade show
Lufthansa brings back all of its routes
Singapore positions itself for regional dominance
Flying into a sandstorm

Be sure to check out www.nexttripnetwork.com for more information!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 084: Jailbreak! Jul 05, 2021

Jailbreak? Yes, from COVID19 and cabin fever. Americans are well into revenge travel with TSA numbers higher than pre-pandemic 2019 levels last week. Europe joined the exodus recently and international flights are resuming with heavy passenger bookings. Doug and Drew will be doing their own trips with Doug going to training in Denver for his new pilot job and Drew heading to Phoenix for the Airliners International Conference.

Other topics on this episode:

United places the largest aircraft order in its history
New low fare carriers are launching in Saudi Arabia and Alaska
Was Qantas the first airline to launch a business class product?

Will you be in Phoenix July 8-10th? Send us a message on www.nexttripnetwork.com if you are interested in visiting the Airliners International Conference. The first 8 listeners to reply will received free tickets to the collectibles show!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 083: Airliners International Jun 28, 2021

Doug and Drew’s AvGeek credentials are vetted on this episode as we welcome card-carrying AvGeek Chris Slimmer. Chris organizes the upcoming Airliners International Conference, the largest airline collectibles show in the country! He regales us with his stories of jumpseating on the Concorde and many other amazing aviation stories over the last several decades. Plus he gives us his overview of flying on upstart airlines Breeze and Avelo.
We also discuss how airlines are "running it hard" as the summer travel number continue to strain fleets. Southwest and American cancel hundreds of flights and Lufthansa elects to bring back the A340-600 for Summer 2022, citing the need for First Class seats - a positive sign?

We end the show with and exciting exclusive announcement from Chris regarding the next Airliners International Conference in June 2022.
Be sure to visit Airliners International and Next Trip Network for more details!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 082: Are you Ready for Single-Pilot Cockpits? Jun 21, 2021

Are you ready for single pilot flightdecks? Cathay Pacific and Airbus are working on a project that may make it a reality. Doug describes pilot workload on a long range flight and if this may be feasible. We discuss your thoughts and ours from a spreadsheet and human perspective.

Other topics on this episode:

Happy 50th birthday Southwest!
The Boeing 737 Max10 takes flight
Emirates and Lufthansa face a slow recovery with global traffic still at half of pre-pandemic levels
Boeing and Airbus sales are competing with low cost used aircraft

Join the conversation at www.nexttripnetwork.com!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 081: Jack of All Trades Chooses Aviation Jun 14, 2021

We welcome Drew’s buddy and coworker Steven, who’s worked as a photographer, bartender, electrician, etc…, before choosing Aviation as his career. We talk about Steven’s path to the airlines and how he’s worked his way from customer service agent to operations manager and to now developing tools to help us run the airline better. Steven is also an avid traveler and gives us some great advice.

Other topics on this episode:

American and Virgin invest in eVTOL aircraft
Delta gets their 50th A220
Boom Overture XB-1 fact sheet and “would you rather Boom or Zoom?”

Join the conversation at:

www. nexttripnetwork.com

More great pictures from Steven. Follow him on Instagram at @standby_explorer.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 080: Moving Fast Jun 07, 2021

On this episode, Doug and Drew begin by laughing about turbulence definitions. Have you ever felt "definite strain" against your seatbelt? If so, you've experienced moderate "chop!" They also discuss the following topics:

U.S. downgrades Mexico's safety rating
Airbus eyes quicker recovery than analysts predict
United places order for supersonic airliner
Pilots find note in cockpit of plane parked for 435 days
FAA creates database of bad pilots
Pilot hiring and training practices improve safety

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 079: Cabin Etiquette and Exclusive Waitlists May 31, 2021

Our fringe AvGeek buddy and airline brat, Matt, joins us again to rant (and rave) about Milk Runs of yore, airplane nicknames, and cabin etiquette. Doug is getting ready for his last flight at his current job and we hope touch and go’s in Reno are on the flight plan. Drew and Matt talk about the crazy busy airports this week and how it seems like a normal start to the summer travel season.

Topics discussed:

Planemaker Aerion shuts down but Boom may get orders. Will we ever see supersonic travel?
The Ryanair flight diversion and the implications for international air traffic
What do new airlines Avelo and Breeze mean for US Aviation?

Join the rants and the conversation!

www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 078: The Travel Surge is HERE May 24, 2021

We’ve been saying for over a year that we are “one week closer to this crisis being over,” and here we are - at least in the US. Passenger volumes are back with a vengeance as Americans crowd airports and head to leisure destinations after enduring COVID cabin fever. Doug regales us with his fabulous last business trip at his current job. Spoiler alert, he won’t get miles at his new job...

Other topics discussed

Traffic is up at the airports and in the air as we start seeing ATC programs to manage volume
TSA screenings are up to 70% of 2019 and airfares are rising
EU to open doors for vaccinated foreigners
Breeze launches with nonstop flights between smaller cities to “get people there twice as fast for half as much money”
Our Ops Center discussion focuses on windshear and microbursts and how we’re able to detect them

We finish the episode with our thoughts on a blog post explaining why widebody domestic flights should be avoided. What!? We think you know where this discussion is going...

Join the conversation at:

www. nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 077: Cathay Pacific Senior VP Americas, Chris van den Hooven May 17, 2021

Cathay Pacific Senior VP Americas, Chris van den Hooven, joins us to talk about how his airline is managing through the pandemic. Travel to Hong Kong, Cathay’s base, is still depressed due to international travel restrictions. Chris explains how the the airline is leaning on cargo, mainland China flights, and a few international routes in the interim. Doug and Drew confirm Chris’ avgeek status as he regales us about landing at Kai Tak airport and spending hours spotting there.

Other topic discussed;

Colonial Pipeline shutdown affecting airlines in the southeast
Airlines score higher on the JD Powers list during the pandemic
United Airlines is bringing back domestic hot plated meals

Chris stays to give us tips on things to see and do in Hong Kong. Doug and Drew immediately started making travel plans after the show!

Join the conversation at

www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Northern fLights Extra Section May 13, 2021

Doug and Drew and over a dozen of our AMAZING listeners attended the first Northern fLights event in Anchorage! Listen to our recap of the Alaska Airlines milk run (flight 65) from Seattle to Anchorage via Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, and Juneau. Plus, we talk about the main event - spotting late into the night at one of the busiest cargo hubs in the world.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 076: On the Road Again! May 10, 2021

Aired on May 10, 2021

Doug and Drew are on the way to Alaska and their Northern fLights listener meet-up. We stop at an LAX lounge to tape this week's episode. Sorry not sorry for the ambient airport noises and both of us interrupting the taping when a 777 lands.

Topics discussed

Passenger volume increases
The age of premium economy?
Airlines refer unruly passengers to the FAA
Zoom fatigue and cabin fever

Join the conversation at

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 075: The Aviation May 03, 2021

Aired on May 3, 2021

Doug and Drew are joined by Andy, a former airline employee and lifelong fringe avgeek who also makes a mean Aviation (the drink). Will our Old Fashioned’s be replaced by Aviations as our signature Next Trip cocktail? Andy and Drew reminisce about their final 747 flight and then Doug regales us with his white knuckle touch and go landings in the DC10 simulator this week!

Other topics discussed:

Andy remembers his favorite aviation moment when he watched a 747 transport the Space Shuttle Discovery to Washington Dulles Airport
Avelo Airlines launches 737 service from Burbank to Santa Rosa. Will its leisure point to point model work?
An Alaska government official gets banned for not complying with mask guidelines and has to figure out how to get from Anchorage to Juneau
Alaska Airlines launches a special livery which Drew doesn’t dislike

We finish this week with an update on Next Trip Northern fLights. We will be on Alaska flight 65, the “Milk Run” departing Seattle at 830a on Friday, May 7 and arriving in Anchorage at 415p. We’ll meet everyone at the Moose’s Tooth Pub at 630p to plan our spotting the next 2 days.

Join the conversation at

www.nexttripnetwork.com

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Boarding Pass 074: Next Trip Crystal Ball Apr 26, 2021

Aired on April 25, 2021

Doug and Drew looked into our Avgeek cyrstal ball a year ago and forecast that we’d be at 75% of 2019 capacity by the summer of 2020. American Airlines announced that they would be at 80% this summer so we were close! Not so much on our forecast of travel bubbles which look to be overtaken by “Green” destinations.

Topics covered:

EVA Air repaints its Hello Kitty 777-300 back to normal
Aer Lingus flew leased 757’s which were another casualty of COVID19
Would you pay for extra legroom?
Virgin Atlantic predicts they will resume all flights by November
Southwest and American say leisure travel is rebounding
We talk about how to get a job in the airlines

We finish the episode with an update on our Alaska trip, Northern fLights. Agenda below:

08MAY

830a - depart SEA on Alaska Airlines flight 65
415p - arrive ANC (We’ll be staying at the Captain Cook Hotel)
630p - Meet up at Moose Tooth Pub and & Pizzeria and then spotting at ANC

09MAY

Currently open but we’re planning on spotting, with breaks, until at least midnight

10MAY

AM free for meet ups and more spotting before departing for ANC at 5pm

Join the conversation at http://www.nexttripnetwork.com

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Boarding Pass 073: Tail Strikes and Go Arounds Apr 19, 2021

Doug is on his way home from DC where he met Drew at work for the first time. We talk about the visit as well as Doug flying Southwest and experiencing a “violent” go-around in Denver. We get way too AvGeeky on tail strikes and tail skids and we have some details on our trip to Alaska in May.

Other topics on this episode:

Is Southwest an LCC (low cost carrier)?
The continued rise of domestic widebodies
Australia and New Zealand created an aviation bubble
American honors our veterans by being the Official Airline for Dream Flights

This episode was taped from Delta’s SkyClub at Detroit so enjoy (or excuse) the background noise!

Join the conversation at:

www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 072: Low-Cost Long-Haul... It's Bound to (Finally) Succeed, Right? Apr 12, 2021

Aired on April 12, 2021

Will Norse Atlantic succeed where Norwegian didn’t with the same planes and leadership? Doug and Drew discuss low cost long haul and ideas to create a succeesful business model with a product attractive to business travelers. Doug is on a another business trip of his own on the episode but we take a moment to talk about how we would use expiring frequent flight miles for leisure travel. (cough) JFK-SIN on Singapore Airlines!

Other topics discussed on the episode

UK carriers push air bridge between the UK and US
JAL retires fleet of PW4000 engined 777’s after United engine failure
LATAM will retire its 13 A350’s and go to an all Boeing long haul fleet
United plans to start training new pilots at its United Aviate Academy this year
Are COVID19 health passports the way to get international travel moving again?

We end the episode with Drew talking about making his childhood best friend a fringe avgeek and we iron out our plans to visit Alaska early next month on the Alaska Airlines Milk Run!

Join the conversation at www.nexttripnetwork.com

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Boarding Pass 071: Piloting Through COVID Apr 05, 2021

John, a flight instructor and long time listener tells us about surviviing during the pandemic. We discuss how cyclical the industry is and how we need to stay resilient and have an irregular ops plan. John talks about his path to becoming a flight instructor and gives some great advice to anyone interested in being a pilot. He also explains how he’s teaching Asian pilot cadets how to fly as well as speak English. Find John on Instagram at @jdebrey.

Other topics discussed:

New airpane maker Aerion announced that their AS3 airliner will fly from LAX to Tokyo in 3 hours
United announced they will be hiring 300 pilots
American says bookings are at 90% of prepandemic levels
TSA has 18 straight days of 1 million plus passenger screenings
We appreciate an unsung hero, the A330, shortly after avgeek “A330 Day” on 3/30

Join the conversation!

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Boarding Pass 070: Will New Airline Routes Survive? We'll Circle Back... Mar 29, 2021

Doug and Drew are circling back on our week with a look at Doug's work on his DC-10 simulator. How does it simulate acceleration, turbulence, and the G forces of flight? Spoiler alert - Drew learns you can't replicate rolling the DC-10 in the simulator. We also discuss the new routes airlines are launching and which ones we think are more than darts thrown at a board.
Other topics discussed:

Southwest resumes pre-pandemic boarding - is it too soon?
Airlines lobby the White House to start easing travel restrictions
Will (and should) vaccines be required for international travel?
Aer Lingus to launch service from Manchester to the U.S.

We finish the show with a really important question for you. Do you like aircraft takeoff or landing shots? We have the poll results and - big surprise - we have strong opinions!

Join the conversation at:

www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 069: Amelia Earhart Joins Us on the Show! Mar 22, 2021

Yes! Amelia Rose Earhart is our VIP Guest who completed the round-the-world flight that her namesake inspired her to do. She tells us all about how she flew a Pilatus PC-12 on the eastward journey, stopping in Brazil, Africa, the Maldives, and Australia along with a high-drama stay in Papua New Guinea. Amelia also started Fly with Amelia, a foundation to help get more girls into aviation and she is an artist and soon-to-be author.
In this episode we also cover:

Air travel optimism as people get back on planes
A post-COVID19 pilot shortage
The Senate Resolution to Promote Aviation Gender Parity

Amelia discusses the inspiration that her name gave her as well as some criticism from people. She talks about how she overcame challenges and how she 'learned to love turbulence". She is an inspiration for anyone who wants to break through barriers.
Join the conversation and learn more about Amelia Rose Earhart at:
http://www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 068: A 300 Plane Order?!? Mar 15, 2021

Surprise! Southwest goes with the 737 for an order for up to 300 planes. This time they choose the 737-7Max over the Airbus A220. Doug and Drew start the transition from Winter Ops talk to Summer and thunderstorms preparation. We take time to think about what we, including our listeners, have been through over the last year, and our ups and downs with COVID19 ravaging the aviation world.
Other topics in this episode:

Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr shuts down the A380
New York lifts travel restrictions
American and United cancel 27,000 furloughs thanks to stimulus package
Why does the Antonov An-225 have some many landing gear tires?
Our Anchorage spotting trip, Northern fLights, is on, departing on May 8 on the Alaska Airlines Milk Run!

Join the conversation at:
http://www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

AvGeek Extra Section Mar 12, 2021

Doug and Drew found some domestic widebodies and tried out products on three different airlines in a whirlwind weekend of lie-flats, lounges, lobster mac-n-cheese, and Las Vegas. Sorry guys and gals, no Doug spreadsheets and no Drew deice procedures on this just pure avgeek fun!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 067: Is a Spring Thaw Underway (Not just the Weather)? Mar 08, 2021

Things are starting to look up with rising TSA screening numbers, airplane orders, and more signs of people eager to fly again. Topics discussed:

We kick off Women's History Month remembering Amelia Earhart
Singapore Airlines will test IATA's Travel Pass mobile app verifying COVID19 tests
If you can't beat em, use em to bring you passengers. Lufthansa joins with Deustche Bahn trains to connect customers with flights from Frankfurt
Some states are lifting mask mandates. Will this open a can of worms at airports?
Airines are taking the lead in getting their employees vaccinated
A flight attendant prevents a plane from taking off with ice-covered wings
Past airline CEO's give their outlook on the aviation industry. We look at their predictions from our perspective of being employees and customers
Our ops topic is tow bar shear pin breaks on pushback. Spoiler alert - we might get a little nerdy on this

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 066: TWA... One Mission, Yours Mar 01, 2021

Doug and Drew visit the TWA Hotel at JFK as part of a whirlwind avgeek coast to coast trip. COVID19 was definitely dampening the experience along with rain but we still enjoyed the mid-century modern architecture of Eero Saarinen. The rooftop pool was open and we had burgers and drinks with a Lockheed Connie as our backdrop. An avgeek mecca for sure.
We also talk about:

We close out Black History Month remembering aviatrix Bessie Colemean
PW4000 Boeing 777 update and inaccurate media coverage. #HeavyMayday
Airline traffic fell last year to its lowest level since 1984
Mexico City's new airport may not be completed. Will it cost more to cancel the project
Singapore Airlines continues upgrading the A380 as other airlines retire them

We end the show with Doug talking about pilot air-to-ground communication from takeoff to landing using our flight from Miami to JFK as the example.
Join the conversation at:
http://www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 065: Engine Failure? We Got This! Feb 22, 2021

Doug and Drew have a packed show for you this week so get ready to enjoy your commute, workout, or avgeek Zen moment with us. Topics we discuss:
- Who knew the C5 Galaxy and 747 competed head-to-head for military and airline orders?
- Two aircraft had engine failures this week. Doug talks about how crews handle engine failures and Drew discusses how the station addresses overweight landings
- We can’t get enough about the Boeing NMA and all the possibilities a small widebody would open up. Would it be an A321XLR AND A330 beater?
- Are airlines throwing darts on the board with new routes hoping some will stick?
We finish the episode saying goodbye to the Learjet. We ask you if you’d choose the CRJ200 or ERJ145 as your personal business jet.
Join the conversation and stay aviation tough!
www.nextripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 064: Flying the MAX Feb 15, 2021

Drew flies on United's relaunch of the 737MAX and Doug dusts off his spreadsheets with an overview of airline financial performance for the last few quarters. We're continuing to see signs of an improving aviation industry but is it fast enough to save jobs? Join the conversation as we ponder the results and go over a few other topics:

Flying a domestic 787
Drew now loves the Hello Kitty livery
Sriwajaya 737 crash update and thrust imbalance recovery
Cathay Pacific crew quarantine requirements causing cancelations
US government votes on an additional $57 billion in aid for transportation
United places $1 billion order for electric VTOL aircraft
Singapore Airlines swaps 787-10 orders for the 777X
Snacks on a Plane! You tell us which complimentary snack you'd want

Join the conversation and stay aviation tough!
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 063: Tales From the Terminal Feb 08, 2021

Doug and Drew love airports and we have another airport employee and civilian turned avgeek, Jenn, or @Jenn_Niffer on Twitter. Jenn works in airport finance but loves the operations side and will come out and help, when they let her. Jenn runs a fun blog called Tales From theTerminal (www.talesfromtheterminal.com) where you can read about her airport adventures.

Other topics covered:

Its the law - TSA mandates masks in the airport and onboard aircraft
JetBlue introduces an updated version of it’s Mint premium product in preparation for A321XLR service to LHR
Aviation Week reports that Boeing is moving forward with a widebody NMA (new middle market aircraft) to beat the A321

We end the show with Jenn av-splaining what you can and cannot say on the ATC frequency and we choose which airport vehicles we’d choose if we were racing them. Watch this hilarious Top Gear episode that we laughed about with Jenn. Join the conversation and stay aviation tough!

https://youtu.be/K05NgDMz2r4

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 062: Domestic COVID Testing Feb 01, 2021

Doug and Drew start February - Black History Month - remembering the Tuskegee Airmen. Will the Washington Football Team pick an AvGeek nickname "The Red Tails" as Drew and Doug hope? We love widebodies, but force each other to discuss the business reasons for Singapore and Cathay Pacific using narrowbodies for the first time in decades. Other topics on this show:

Boeing reports $12 billion loss and delays EIS 777X to at least 2023 (if ever)
American and Southwest post record annual losses
Southwest offering another round of voluntary leave to reduce staffing
Frontier and Spirit hiring pilots and Delta calls 400 pilots back to active status
Vaccine updates with Johnson & Johnson soon joining Pfizer and Moderna
Should COVID-19 tests be required for domestic flights?
What is a nautical mile vs. a statute mile and why does it matter?

We end the show with a poll by our buddy Greg who posed the question, "Which USAF bomber should lead the Super Bowl flyover next Sunday? "

Join the conversation at www.nexttripnetwork.com!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 061: Snarge on a Plane. Huh? Jan 25, 2021

What is snarge? To find out you gotta listen to the whole episode with our special guest, airport operations supervisor, Francis (Twitter - @foxtrotcola). We discuss what the 3 of us, a pilot, airline ops manager, and airport ops supervisor do to respond to bird strikes and emergency landings.
Other topics covered:

Public vs. private airports, which works better?
Update on the Sriwajaya 737-500 crash
United Airlines 4th quarter results
IATA Travel Pass may streamline COVID19 travel documentation

Listen all the way to the end where Francis and Doug do a role play of Drew's favorite scene in the move airport 1970. See the actual scene here:
https://youtu.be/I6NoWweYJw4
Join the conversation at www.nexttripnetwork.com

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Boarding Pass 060: Simulator Stories Jan 18, 2021

Doug and Drew live on location... in Camden, NJ! Despite the winter winds, it was actually a great recording location. In this episode:
- Doug's unexpected work trip to the East Coast
- Delta is the first airline to report 2020 annual numbers, have they turned a corner?
- Norwegian pulls the plug on low-cost long-haul flying in a bid to save the company
- Best NFL charters of the weekend
- Simulator training for flight crews
Honorable mention: we recorded a segment on Southwest Airlines celebrating its 50th anniversary this week, but the winds made the entire segment unintelligible and unusable. Hopefully we can circle back to it and re-record in an upcoming episode because there was a lot of great information discussed. Congrats Southwest - here's to another successful 50 years (and more)!
www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 059: Dogs on a Plane Jan 11, 2021

VIP Guest Justin Yarbrough joins us to talk about his Runway Girl Network article about changes in airline emotional support and service animal acceptance. We discuss a poll one of listeners Ryan posted on Twitter about where to sit on a 777-200, and our own poll, asking you which of this month’s football charters you would fly on. (Spoiler alert, always bet on the 747).

Topics discussed:

Will any of the Big 4 (United, American, Delta, Southwest) merge in 2021
Sriwajaya flight 182 crash
Doug and Drew’s guest appearance on the Non-Rev Lounge Podcast

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 058: No GPS? No Problem... Jan 04, 2021

Doug and Drew have their first episode of 2021 with a look at their last flights and a forward look at an airline traffic recovery. Drew gets to talk about his concern about eyebrow windows on older planes and Doug tells us all the ways he can navigate without using a sextant and the stars.
Topics discussed:

Drop in traffic in 2019
Domestic Asian routes are busiest
Only 21 A380's currently in service
Ryanair CEO talks about growth opportunities with airlines dropping service
Some airlines are buying planes in preparation for a surge
GPS, INU, and radio beacon navigation systems

Visit our website for pictures and more:
www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

2020 New Year's Eve Extra Section Dec 31, 2020

Doug and Drew usher out 2020 by reminiscing about nostalgic AvGeek trips from decades past on planes no longer in service.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 057: SeaTac, MRJ, and 2021 Predictions Dec 28, 2020

BoardingPass 57 is live with VIP Guest Isaac Alexander, Editor in Chief of aviation and space news outlet Jet City Star. We get Isaac's in depth analysis of Mitsubishi's MRJ90 Space Jet program and his overview of SeaTac airport. Isaac makes some bold 2021 predictions with us which we'll revisit 12 months from now.
Other topics on this episode:
- Alaska 737 MAX order - a much needed shot in the arm for Boeing
- Canada imposes fines for anti-maskers
- Congress approves $15 billion aid for the airlines... too little too late?
Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

2020 Christmas Extra Section Dec 23, 2020

Merry Christmas and happy holidays from us to you! Enjoy this bonus AvGeek episode. We'll be back with our normal format on Monday.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 056: Winter is Here Dec 21, 2020

Doug and Drew are back for another On Time Departure of the The Next Trip. This week was rough with passenger loads rising before the Christmas holiday. Add in East Coast snow storm Gail and we have an airline irregular operation on top of the holiday rush. Just perfect!
We also discuss:
- the Great Conjunction
- aircraft safety issues as they come out of storage
- will business traffic come back?
- improved airline satisfaction during pandemic
- JAL offering customers the ability to NOT have a meal
- Doug and Drew talk about their experience with deicing and delays

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 055: You Get Paid to do This?!? Dec 14, 2020

VIP Guest Tom Pallini, transportation writer for the Business Insider, joins us for a fun and information filled episode! Tom tells us how he got into aviation and shares his avgeek pilgrimage to Maho Beach in St. Maarten for airplane spotting. Doug and Drew then go through a litany of topics including a few of Tom's recent articles.:

The things flight attendants say
Remembering Chuck Yeager
Pfizer vaccine deliveries start
Hawaiian adding flights to the mainland in 2021
Jetblue's refreshed Mint premium A321XLR vs old British Airways Club World
Airline lounges during COVID19

We end the show talking about United's return to JFK and Doug and Drew's plans to join Tom on the first departure.
Comment on this episode and join the conversation at:
www.nexttripnetwork.com

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 054: Drew Finally Gets on an MD-95 Dec 07, 2020

Drew flies Delta (specifically the MD-95)!
Thanksgiving TSA numbers
Airline cash burn climbing again
Southwest announces possible furloughs
737 MAX topics
- Ryanair places new order
- GOL to operate first MAX flights in the world
- Will Delta order the MAX
- What should the plane be called?
U.K. approves first use of COVID vaccine
AA getting rid of high-premium A321T?
Ops topic: takeoff power

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 053: Zoom WILL NOT Replace Travel Nov 30, 2020

Doug and Drew talk about record TSA checkpoint traffic during the Thanksgiving travel week despite health warnings. They discuss other positive news stories including Delta avoiding pilot layoffs, IATA working on a “Health Passport” to open up international travel, and United starting charter flights to transport vaccines.

Hear our thoughts on our recent domestic widebody flights and your responses on whether you would take the vaccine as soon as it’s available. Don’t miss Doug’s aviation nightmare dream and Drew’s question on which one airline perk we’d keep if we had to choose. “Not without my…”
Comment on this episode at
www.nexttripnetwork.com
or follow us on Twitter at @nexttrippodcast

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 052: Turning a Corner? Nov 23, 2020

Are we turning the corner? The virus is still raging around the world but two vaccines are about to be approved and we may be on our way back to the “old normal”.

Doug and Drew discuss several positive stories this week:

TSA numbers are gradually rising
The 737 MAX recertification
QANTAS turns 100
Korean plans to buy Asiana

We end with some day job deicing stories with Doug laughing at Drew’s deice coordinator names. Spoiler alert, take IceMan before all that’s left is Snowflake.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 051: Beech 99s, Backed up Lavs, and Boeing 777s - A Pilot's Journey Nov 16, 2020

Doug and Drew are joined by Paul who just retired after flying everything from the Piper Warrior to the Boeing 777. We discuss our thoughts on the vaccine announcement and how it will affect aviation and our choice for the most iconic airplane/airline combination.

Paul then regales us with stories from his aviation career including:

- Bringing a Bonanza back to life

- What does a 2nd officer do

- Airbus or Boeing, which did he prefer

- Crew rest on a transatlantic flight

- What do you do when lavatories fail in flight

Fasten your seatbelt for several ups and downs on this episode!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 050: A New Network Nov 09, 2020

Doug and Drew are excited to be doing our 50th episode almost a year after we started. We always say this is your show and for our 50th we invited 3 of our listeners to join us in some avgeek fun. In this episode we:

Choose our favorite widebody
Debate our favorite liveries
Share our favorite aviation experiences

Join the conversation!
Send us comments at:
https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 049: Delta 777 Sendoff Nov 02, 2020

Doug regales us with his story about his trip on Delta’s final revenue 777 flight from JFK to LAX on Saturday.
We talk about American Airlines putting the 737Max on the schedule this year and their plans to make passengers feel comfortable about flying on it. Find out what our listeners thought about the chances of it flying this year
Can the aviation industry be carbon neutral by 2050? The EU thinks so. Hear our thoughts
Doug and Drew’s Halloween costumes were the Incredibles and the Brawny Man (cough) Village People.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 048: A TRUE 757 Replacement? Oct 26, 2020

We're joined by a return VIP guest, fringe avgeek, and frequent flier, Dale. He just happens to be Doug's dad too! We go over several topics on this high energy episode:

Updates on US Airline losses and daily cash burn
Dragonair out. Flybe back in?
AA puts 737Max back on the schedule for December
Boeing looking at new 757-size aircraft
Dale asks about how airlines get international overflight approval

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 047: Missing Travel Oct 19, 2020

We're back with a fun sandwich of news and avgeek banter this week!
- KLM, Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific livery updates "woah" or "meh"
- DOD study shows air onboard is 15x cleaner than at home
- 737max gets EASA green light
We commiserate on missing international travel and share how people are getting their fix. Would you pay to sit in an A380 restaurant, buy Finnair meals, or spend up to $875 for the PanAm Experience dinner theater?
Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 046: Don't Rush to Europe Oct 12, 2020

Doug and Drew discuss Boeing's production forecast, British Airways 747 final flights, a DARPA cabin air study, and European curfews. Also, does the KC10/DC10 have Fowler flaps?

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 045: Kenya, CARES, and Cargo Oct 05, 2020

Special guest MarkyMark, @fiicaan on Twitter and Anchorage Planespotting on YouTube, joins us to talk about Anchorage and his journey from Kenya to Alaska and from civilian to avgeek.
We discuss the layoffs in the US, Boeing 737 recertification, and Lufthansa keeping the 747.
Doug and Drew start planning an Alaskan spotting trip starting off with a ride on the Alaska Milk Run making 4 stops on the way from Seattle to Anchorage. Join us May 8-10th!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 044: FINALLY an A220... and a B-25 Sep 28, 2020

Doug finally got to fly on an A220 and Drew had a surprise invite to fly on a WW2 B-25! We give you an update on the CARES Act and pilot layoffs and commiserate on the last A380 rolling off the production line. Will the 747(-8) outlast the A380 in passenger service?!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 043: More Than Just a Job Sep 21, 2020

Time is running out for an extension of the CARES Act to save thousands of airline jobs. Doug and Drew have updates on this and COVID19 infections in aviation vs. the general public. We discuss the popularity of "flights to nowhere" and talk about jetlag in the same time zone for Doug and a maintenance plane change in record time for Drew.
Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 042: Come Fly With Me Sep 15, 2020

Need an escape from COVID19? Join us on our avgeek adventure to LAX with a few friends for plane spotting. We talk about flying during the pandemic which was safe, clean, and reliable.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 041: Codeshares, Change Fees, and Windshear... Oh My! Sep 07, 2020

BoardingPass 41 is live! Good news, change fees are gone, fly nonstop TLV-AUH/DXB, and TSA numbers are up. Doug tells us about his windshear recovery 😬 and Drew introduces "civilians say the darndest things" 🤣.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 40: Layoff Announcements Begin in the U.S. Aug 31, 2020

BoardingPass 40 is live with Doug and Drew ripping the bandaid off with an update on airline layoffs. We share positive news on Virgin Atlantic and #avsplain landing on a snowy runway and how #BagCans work. #aviationTOUGH

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 039: The Calm Before the Storm Aug 25, 2020

Boarding pass 39 is out and the winner of our New Kid on the Gate poll is the #A350! We also talk about Joey @GerardiAviation visiting IAD for #planespotting and hash over layoffs and the slow recovery. Still staying #aviationTOUGH.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 038: Implications of the Bailout Limbo Aug 18, 2020

We talk safety first this week with FOD checks and maintenance tail swaps, Tata possible Air India takeover, and are UA/DL marketing to us avgeeks? Join the conversation!

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 037: (Another) End of an Era - BA Ends its All Business Class A318 Service to JFK Aug 11, 2020

Doug and Drew get caught up on the latest news:

Airline furloughs
Virgin Atlantic bankruptcy
Air India crash
BA retiring A318

We also give tips on carryons.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 036: Ramp Fest Aug 04, 2020

Aviation professionals and avgeek photographers Jason (@jknapfel) and Tyler (@tcrookairways) join us to talk about life working Ramp Ops at a busy hub. We also chat about spotting, non-reving, and of course, Biscoff. 🙄

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Boarding Pass 035: More 737 Headaches... not the MAX Jul 27, 2020

Doug and Drew discuss the latest 737 drama (not the Max), news briefs, and a shout out to our FAA friends! We also confirmed Doug was a spreadsheet guy at 7.

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Boarding Pass 034: Farewell British Airways 747 Jul 20, 2020

#BoardingPass 34 is live with Speedbird Julie, @JSS779, joining us to mourn the retirement of the British Airways 747. She also gives us a virtual tour of Heathrow Airport airline lounges. Spoiler alert, lots of bubbles 🥂🥂 along the way!

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Boarding Pass 033: Will it be 36,000? Jul 13, 2020

Doug and Drew hash over possible massive job cuts at US Airlines and about a stalled economic recovery.
We take diversions to talk about our Twitter poll on the best alliance livery and Doug tells us what its like to fly through hail. Spoiler alert, its scary.

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Boarding Pass 032: Ultra-Long-Haul Flying (Part 2) Jul 06, 2020

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Boarding Pass 031: Ultra-Long-Haul Flying (Part 1) Jun 29, 2020

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Boarding Pass 030: Masks on a Plane Jun 22, 2020

Doug and Drew talk about everything from nonreving, to facemasks, the 737 Max, touch and go landings, lightning, and the galley sink. Join the (A.D.D.) conversation!

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Boarding Pass 029: Where did my Dog Drop a Nugget? Accessibility in a COVID-19 World Jun 15, 2020

#BoardingPass 29 is live with our friend @FatElvis04 talking about his @RunwayGirl article on #FlyingBlind during COVID19. We do an international bailout update and lose some #avgeek street cred with an #airlineslogan game gone wrong 🤦🏾‍♂️🤦‍♂️.

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Boarding Pass 028: The New Normal Jun 07, 2020

Doug and Drew talk about staying positive in our new normal. We give the Mad Dog a proper send off and rant about another T-Tail, the CRJ200.

Mad Dog Madness final week
A Workhorse Remembered, our 1st YouTube video
PIA 8303 update
Airlines see an upswing in traffic
Mitsubishi CRJ?
CRJ200 - the good, the bad

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Boarding Pass 027: Maddog Madness May 31, 2020

It's all about Doug's excellent MD80 adventure but we take some time to marvel at the SpaceX launch and go over news topics.

Doug's surprise MD80 trip
PIA 8303 crash update
LH accepts bailout conditions
LATAM Chile is the latest bankruptcy
SpaceX Crew Dragon launch success
Thank you Airport Ops workers

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Boarding Pass 026: Turboprop Transcon (No, not Nonstop) May 25, 2020

BoardingPass 26 is live with VIP guest Joey of @GerardiAviation . We chat about his turboprop transcon trip article in @AirlineGeeks , EAS flights, and @owayfinder's #MD80 trip. Come for the info, stay for the #avgeek rants!

VIP Joey Gerardi
Doug’s Mad Dog Trip!
Transcon Turboprop
PIA A320 Crash
Airlines’ Slow Climb

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Boarding Pass 025: Does the Data Show a Positive Rate of Climb? May 17, 2020

Nick of JetTip.Net joins us to look at the data on flight and passenger volumes

Find your favorite aircraft and liveries
Trainspotting and planespotting meet
Digging through passenger volumes for hope
Premium seat going or coming?

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Boarding Pass 024: The State of the Industry May 11, 2020

787 to the Rescue
Passengers to Pallets
Avianca Troubles
Aisle or Window?
Drew and Doug get Real

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Boarding Pass 023: Fringe AvGeek and COVID Combis May 03, 2020

VIP Guest Matt
Masks✔Middle Seats🚫
Combis to the Rescue
Airline Brat to Employee
767 and 747 Rants

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Boarding Pass 022: Decade Predictions (Take Two) Apr 26, 2020

In Boarding Pass 22, Doug and Drew discuss several aviation related topics including:

Introducing our new logo
Merchandise shop is live! Get NTP socks, stickers, shirts, etc here
Why would we save LGA or EWR?
More airlines announce bankruptcy or need of state aid
Have we hit the bottom?
Boeing backs out of Embraer Deal
Updated predictions
Listener feedback
Wonder Plane questions
Surprise guest appearance

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Boarding Pass 021: Dreaming of Travel Apr 20, 2020

In Boarding Pass 21, Doug and Drew welcome two of our listeners to the show to discuss several aviation topics including:

The likely end for South African Airways
Voluntary time off
Middle seats blocked
New blood tests might become the "new normal," but have the chance to speed up travel recovery
Ops topic: storing a plane, then flying it again for the first time
ERJ-170/175 vs. CRJ-700/900
Favorite liveries
Favorite past trips and dream trip once the crisis ends

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 020: Fat-and-Backs and Twitter Games Apr 12, 2020

In Boarding Pass 20, Doug and Drew discuss several aviation topics including:

Avro RJ/BAe 146
Fat-and-Backs
Cargo only flights
KLM 747-400 Combi returns!
NE Patriots plane goes to China
Routes to China might soon open
Listener feedback
Repatriation flights - who sits in first class?
Twitter game: What airline do you operate?
Twitter game: What 3 airlines would you bring back?
Want to join the listener episode? Email us at nexttrip.podcast@gmail.com

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Boarding Pass 019: A Much Needed Break Apr 05, 2020

In Boarding Pass 19, Doug and Drew welcome a very special guest to help divert our attention from COVID-19 and instead focus on some AvGeek stories from times past.

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Boarding Pass 018: The Retirement Episode Mar 29, 2020

In Boarding Pass 18, Doug and Drew welcome Ryan Ewing of Airline Geeks back to the show to discuss several aviation topics including:

#aviationTOUGH
Order #aviationTOUGH stickers here
Settle the Biscoff debate
COVID-19 updates
Lessons from 9/11
Aircraft retirements
Listener poll: what do you call the MD-80

You can find Ryan on Twitter @FlyingHighRyan or read his team's great content at airlinegeeks.com.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 017: AviationTOUGH Mar 22, 2020

In Boarding Pass 17, Doug and Drew discuss several aviation topics including:

#aviationTOUGH
COVID-19 latest
Aggregated airline impacts here (courtesy of Jon Ostrower, Seth Miller, Jason Rabinowitz, et al)
KLM 747-400 retirement
Ops Topic: Diversions
Feedback
Listener Poll: DC-10 vs. L1011

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Boarding Pass 016: COVID-19 Takes Aim at the Airline Industry Mar 13, 2020

In Boarding Pass 16, Doug and Drew discuss several aviation topics including:

Doug's current trip
737 MAX update
COVID-19
Airlines brace for impact
U.S. restricts travel from Europe
Listener Poll: Which cookies do you prefer?
Feedback
Next Trips

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Boarding Pass 015: More Industry Contraction (Plus Some Happy AvGeek Talk) Mar 08, 2020

In Boarding Pass 15, Doug and Drew discuss several aviation topics including:

Drew's trip home from Sri Lanka
COVID-19 update
IATA's revised revenue guidance
More airlines cut service, ground staff and airplanes
Business travel and conferences get the axe
Flybe ceases operations
Heathrow's proposed 3rd runway hits a roadblock
Ops Topic: holding vs. circling
Ops Topic: fuel emergency
A380 wake turbulence
Ops Topic: flying in wake turbulence
Listener Poll: preferred London airport
Our next trips

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Boarding Pass 014: Indian Aviation Mar 01, 2020

In Boarding Pass 014, Doug and Drew discuss several aviation topics including:

Drew in India and Sri Lanka
Drew’s travel to India
Air India’s privitazation issues
Vistara’s new code-share with United
Aviation center of gravity
American and Qatar announce new partnership
Trans States Airlines (United Express) is closing its doors
Covid 19 Update
Travel restrictions to Italy and South Korea
Airlines cut service to Japan, Italy and South Korea
Oceanic flight from an operations perspective
10 highest grossing routes in the world
Feedback
Our next trips

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Boarding Pass 013: Airline Accessibility Feb 23, 2020

In Boarding Pass 013, Doug and Drew welcome Justin Yarbrough to the show to discuss several aviation topics including:

Qatar increases stake in IAG
Coronavirus update
Debris found in undelivered 737 MAX aircraft fuel tanks
IFE accessibility
Proposed changes to service animal policies on U.S. airlines
How do airlines schedule aircraft
Twitter Poll: Do you check a bag for a 2-day trip?
Non-rev stories
Next trips

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Boarding Pass 012: Alaska Joins oneworld Feb 16, 2020

In Boarding Pass 012, Doug and Drew discuss several aviation topics including:

Doug's window shade fight
JetBlue turns 20
Air Italy liquidates
United buys a pilot academy
Coronavirus update
Breeze Airlines
Alaska plans to join oneworld, cozies up (again) with American
Twitter Poll - what is Alaska's fleet plan going forward
Feedback from listners
KLM 747-400 breaks the speed of sound! Not really, here's why...
Drew's AMAZING 787-9 delivery flight

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Boarding Pass 011: Airbus Purchases Larger Stake of the A220 Feb 09, 2020

In Boarding Pass 011, Doug (on location at OKC) and Drew discuss several topics including:

Drew's second domestic wide-body flight in as many weeks
Doug's AvGeek way home from OKC
Coronavirus update
Airbus learns of punishment in bribery scandal
Airbus' intended purchase of Bombardier's remaining stake in the A220 program
Breeze Airlines (formerly Moxy) starts to take form
What to do for entertainment on a 6 hour transcon
Teasing Drew's 787 delivery flight

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Boarding Pass 010: Airlines Slash China Flights Feb 02, 2020

In Boarding Pass 010, Doug and Drew discuss several topics including:

Doug's AvGeek weekend at DFW
Settling the LATAM pronunciation debate... and opening the Qatar can of worms
Boeing, Boeing Boeing - NMA, 777X, 2019 net loss, 787 production cut, 737 MAX, and more!
Latest on Coronavirus, including massive cuts on flights to China
IFE on flights
Next trips

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Boarding Pass 009: A Positive Boeing Story, Finally Jan 27, 2020

In Boarding Pass 009, Doug and Drew discus several topics including:

South African Airways' future
Coronavirus and its impacts on travel
A major U.S. carrier announces a new window shade policy - one week after we debated it on this show
Boeing's new aircraft, the 777X, takes to the skies on its inaugural flight
Will any U.S. airline order the 777X?
Listener poll - do you sleep on the short flight from the East Coast to Europe?
Doug's seven week flying drought is about to end
Drew discusses his domestic wide-body flight from last week

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Boarding Pass 008: Fuel Dumping... an Operations Perspective Jan 20, 2020

In Boarding Pass 008, Doug and Drew discuss several topics including:

The never ending window shade debate
Boeing introduces a possible 737 MAX replacement
The 777X might fly this week
Delta announces new Miami service to feed new LATAM partnership
How does one pronounce LATAM? We don't actually know - help us!
A Delta 777 dumps fuel on the ground during an emergency retern
Fuel dumping from an operations perspective
Craziest non-rev and travel experiences
A VIP 787 is going up for auction
Next trips

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Boarding Pass 007: A Chat with Airline Maintenance Jan 13, 2020

In Boarding Pass 007, Doug and Drew are joined by Ameri, a Maintenance Operations Coordinator for a major U.S. based carrier. The three discuss how aircraft maintenance is handled, and how it impacts the traveling public.

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Boarding Pass 006: Decade Predictions Jan 06, 2020

In Boarding Pass 006, Doug and Drew predict and debate what they think will be the ten biggest aviation related stories in the 2020s.

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Boarding Pass 005: Decade in Review Dec 30, 2019

In Boarding Pass 005, Doug and Drew discuss and debate what they thought were the ten biggest aviation related stories in the 2010s.

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Boarding Pass 004: Boeing Leadership Shakeup Dec 23, 2019

In Boarding Pass 004, Doug and Drew welcome Ryan Ewing of Airline Geeks to the show to talk big changes at the top for Boeing, and other AvGeek topics including:

What got us interested in aviation
The "AvGeekiest" thing we've ever done
If we could be a plane, what would we be and why

You can find Ryan on Twitter @FlyingHighRyan or read his team's great content at airlinegeeks.com.

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 003: Avgeek Adventure Dec 16, 2019

In Boarding Pass 003, Doug and Drew cover a wide range of AvGeek topics including:

Our trips home from OKC
Boeing announces they're suspending production of the 737MAX beginning in January
Qantas selects an airplane for Project Sunrise
We recap our AvGeek trip to the West Coast for some planespotting and lounge hopping
We discuss planespotting hotels
We debate how early to arrive at the airport if you have lounge access
We discuss why nonstop flights aren't always better for some people

https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Boarding Pass 002: Airbus A321XLR Dec 08, 2019

In Boarding Pass 002, Doug and Drew pick up where they left off in BP001 - not necessarily seeing eye-to-eye on everything.

Do you obsessively check your itinerary before you fly? Different views from different types of passengers - a non-rev vs Elite
Breaking down United's surprise order for 50 Airbus A321XLR aircraft
Is United's A321XLR order the end of the road for Boeing's NMA development (New Middle of the Market Aircraft)?
What are different airplanes called? Seven one seven vs. seven seventeen. A three twenty one vs. A three two one, and so on
Our next trips

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Boarding Pass 001: Cleared for Takeoff Dec 02, 2019

In Boarding Pass 001, Doug and Drew introduce themselves and the podcast, and cover a wide range of contemporary aviation topics.

Traveling through the world's busiest airport on one of the busiest travel days of the year
The beginning of the end for the A380 - or the actual end in airframe 003's case
Qantas' Project Sunrise - what does a long-haul pilot think of the "research" being conducted?
Boeing rolled out the 737 MAX 10 - is this a big deal?
Taking an upgrade while your partner sits in economy
Poll: would you take an upgrade to a middle seat in economy plus or stay in your economy window seat?
Our next trips

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