Tennessee's Memphis International Airport will undergo more than $1.6 billion in upgrades set to transform its primary passenger concourse and FedEx's world hub. "In terms of dollar figures and the magnitude of the projects, it would be safe to say that this is an unprecedented time for MEM as it relates to construction," said Glen Thomas, an airport spokesman.
A Glassdoor survey finds about 60% of people name benefits as the No. 1 consideration before accepting a job, with health insurance the most important. Other priority benefits are dental insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, sick leave, flexibility, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave and gym discounts.
A "Project Runway All Stars" design challenge had contestants using items provided by Southwest Airlines to create travel wear, as well as leather travel accessory made from Southwest airline seat covers. The airline also provided the show with the use of an aircraft and assisted with getting airport access for filming.
Pennsylvania's Bradford Regional Airport will undergo a $1.27 million renovation designed to make the terminal more welcoming for passengers. The planned updates include exterior stone columns, enhanced lighting inside and out, new video screens in the lobby and a fireplace in the waiting area.
FedEx is celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day by partnering with Rise Against Hunger to package meals for hungry people around the world. "Our support for this initiative perpetuates our corporate and societal values, using our knowledge to make connections and deliver resources where they are needed most," said Rose Flenorl of FedEx Global Citizenship.
Air Transport World has recognized Texas' Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport as the world's top airport. DFW has invested billions in improvements in recent years, including a $2 billion renovation of three terminals. DFW Airport "truly stood out for its innovation, operational excellence on focus on serving its customers," ATW Editor-in-Chief Karen Walker said.
American Airlines has promoted Kevin Brickner to the role of senior vice president of technical operations. Brickner was most recently the carrier's vice president of safety and operations integration as well as certified director of safety.
Alaska Airlines is introducing a new West Coast wine menu that includes a rotating selection of wines chosen for their superior taste. "We really looked into what would play well in the air when you're [30,000] or 40,000 feet up," said Jonathan Hardy, certified sommelier.
An artificial intelligence application called HireVue searches resumes for keywords and uses a chatbot to ask questions to make sure applicants meet the requirements. The application also studies applicants' faces to see how many times they smile during interviews.
United Airlines on Wednesday unveiled new uniforms for its 70,000 frontline workers, including pilots, flight attendants, customer-service agents and ramp workers. The purple- and blue-hued uniforms were designed and produced by fashion designer Tracy Reese, along with retailers Carhartt and Brooks Brothers.