60 acast.com Sky Lounge Podcast https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/sky-lounge-podcast en Sky Lounge aviation, airlines ,travel,innovation Sky Lounge

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]]>

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]]> false Sky Lounge info+6415d5803ff45f00116afda0@mg-eu.acast.com 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 sky-lounge-podcast episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6415d5803ff45f00116afda0/1679159682346-722829d12ba798f72b5abd0c64b87e3e.jpeg https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/sky-lounge-podcast Sky Lounge Podcast <![CDATA[Super-Quiet Aircraft & Mega Loud Plane Orders!]]> Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:16:39 GMT 1:10:38 69300ab2f99ade22794ef7b5 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/69300ab2f99ade22794ef7b5 69300ab2f99ade22794ef7b5 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 3 9 The final 2025 episode of The Sky Lounge Podcast – where Alexandra & David talk about the Dubai Airshow, long haul narrow body aircraft, the 777X flying at the Airshow (but when will it truly fly?);

They then talk about Beond & it's US expansion, global airport growth ambitions and much more!


A question for 2026 - Will fast & free onboard WIFI be a criterion for you to choose which airline to fly?


Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and the very very best for the New Year! 


Both of us will be back in the new year, with a very new interesting format for SKY LOUNGE! Stay tuned!

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]]> The final 2025 episode of The Sky Lounge Podcast – where Alexandra & David talk about the Dubai Airshow, long haul narrow body aircraft, the 777X flying at the Airshow (but when will it truly fly?);

They then talk about Beond & it's US expansion, global airport growth ambitions and much more!


A question for 2026 - Will fast & free onboard WIFI be a criterion for you to choose which airline to fly?


Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and the very very best for the New Year! 


Both of us will be back in the new year, with a very new interesting format for SKY LOUNGE! Stay tuned!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Losing (Your) Spirit Losing (Your) Spirit Wed, 03 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMT 48:17 68b81d877450e0cb4145bfa4 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/68b81d877450e0cb4145bfa4 68b81d877450e0cb4145bfa4 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 3 8 This episode had more that it's fair share of focus on low cost airlines. Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has packed up and left, Spirit has filed for bankruptcy… again, and we share a few stories from our own recent trips on budget carriers. Of course, you can’t talk low-cost without mentioning their favorite workhorses—the Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s and woo hoo, we may have a new market #1 soon!


Alex also tells us about her not-so-smooth experience trying to use the United Airlines app from outside the U.S., and David comes back buzzing with passion and connections from the ICAO NGAP conference in Durban.


To round it all off, we chat about airlines, brand value, and why airlines rank so low in global brand rankings!


Here's a quick quizzer for you - I made a factual mistake in the PODCAST. Can you point out what it is?

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]]> This episode had more that it's fair share of focus on low cost airlines. Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has packed up and left, Spirit has filed for bankruptcy… again, and we share a few stories from our own recent trips on budget carriers. Of course, you can’t talk low-cost without mentioning their favorite workhorses—the Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s and woo hoo, we may have a new market #1 soon!


Alex also tells us about her not-so-smooth experience trying to use the United Airlines app from outside the U.S., and David comes back buzzing with passion and connections from the ICAO NGAP conference in Durban.


To round it all off, we chat about airlines, brand value, and why airlines rank so low in global brand rankings!


Here's a quick quizzer for you - I made a factual mistake in the PODCAST. Can you point out what it is?

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]]> <![CDATA[An "Appy" Aviation World ]]> Wed, 25 Jun 2025 13:38:07 GMT 50:27 685bfcfb7cd58072a5740e4a false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/685bfcfb7cd58072a5740e4a 685bfcfb7cd58072a5740e4a 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 3 7 Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have lost family and friends in the recent Air India AI171 accident in India.


In this episode, Alex and David had plenty to catch up on—especially with David just back from his U.S. travels. He was absolutely raving about the United Airlines app, calling it “H-appy” with good reason! Meanwhile, Alex couldn’t get over Air France and their delicious ground-based food experiment.


They also dove into the latest Boeing and Airbus forecasts—yes, there are lots of planes on the horizon. Plus, the recent IATA conference delivered some fascinating insights and statistics.


https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2025-speeches/2025-06-02-01/


Enjoy the episode!

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]]> Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have lost family and friends in the recent Air India AI171 accident in India.


In this episode, Alex and David had plenty to catch up on—especially with David just back from his U.S. travels. He was absolutely raving about the United Airlines app, calling it “H-appy” with good reason! Meanwhile, Alex couldn’t get over Air France and their delicious ground-based food experiment.


They also dove into the latest Boeing and Airbus forecasts—yes, there are lots of planes on the horizon. Plus, the recent IATA conference delivered some fascinating insights and statistics.


https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2025-speeches/2025-06-02-01/


Enjoy the episode!

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]]> <![CDATA[Super Premium Economy & Retro TWA ]]> Wed, 04 Jun 2025 15:52:31 GMT 50:00 68406cf244362f4720fa0b43 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/68406cf244362f4720fa0b43 68406cf244362f4720fa0b43 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 A whole row to yourself! full 3 6 In this episode, Alexandra shares her recent trip to the U.S. aboard Air France—complete with a whole row to herself and a glass of champagne! Meanwhile, David is gearing up for his own long journey—fingers crossed for some empty rows on his flight too.


We also dive into the retro charm of the TWA Hotel, the complexities of airport security, and more. Tune in and enjoy the journey!

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]]> In this episode, Alexandra shares her recent trip to the U.S. aboard Air France—complete with a whole row to herself and a glass of champagne! Meanwhile, David is gearing up for his own long journey—fingers crossed for some empty rows on his flight too.


We also dive into the retro charm of the TWA Hotel, the complexities of airport security, and more. Tune in and enjoy the journey!

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]]> <![CDATA[Swapping Countries & Planes!]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 06:43:38 GMT 1:12:14 68258e48696b5d1232816ced false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/68258e48696b5d1232816ced 68258e48696b5d1232816ced 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 When you have Plane B or Plane B? full 3 5 We talk about Alex’s “almost” India experience and why she had to go to Indigo’s Plan B! David’s trip to Kazakhstan just seemed to “Wizz” by ! Oh, and we touched on Alex’s current airline crush!


This airline for this episode was “F” – one of the world’s oldest airlines – and they do have a unique seat (hint). We also had a quick shout out to the world’s most profitable airline – you guessed it right.


David was excited about Disney coming to Abu Dhabi – and planes in Disney livery! But he will need to wait! We ended with Lounges – that’s what the Sky Lounge podcast is all about! Nice relaxing discussions in a relaxed comfy lounge! What would Ian Kay say about that?

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]]> We talk about Alex’s “almost” India experience and why she had to go to Indigo’s Plan B! David’s trip to Kazakhstan just seemed to “Wizz” by ! Oh, and we touched on Alex’s current airline crush!


This airline for this episode was “F” – one of the world’s oldest airlines – and they do have a unique seat (hint). We also had a quick shout out to the world’s most profitable airline – you guessed it right.


David was excited about Disney coming to Abu Dhabi – and planes in Disney livery! But he will need to wait! We ended with Lounges – that’s what the Sky Lounge podcast is all about! Nice relaxing discussions in a relaxed comfy lounge! What would Ian Kay say about that?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[“Tariffic” Birthday Greetings & Air Seats!]]> Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:28:25 GMT 1:12:07 67f5166a4dca23c350fa3cfb false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/67f5166a4dca23c350fa3cfb 67f5166a4dca23c350fa3cfb 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 3 4 Travel demand remains strong, but could tariffs be the turbulence ahead for aviation growth? Let’s not dwell too long on that—because we’re also celebrating a terrific birthday for the airline that starts with “E”! Can you guess which one? Tune in to the episode to find out!


In this week’s episode, Alexandra and David dive into a mix of quirky and serious aviation updates:


  • ·From Finnair’s non-reclining business class AirLounge seat (yes, really!),
  • To reimagining Eurowings catering carts with built-in coffee machines as… champagne & wine fountains?
  • And of course, April 1st wouldn’t be complete without a few clever fake headlines and light-hearted fun.


On the topic of tariff turbulence, we also explore Roger Hall’s insights on turbulence of the airline kind.

Check out the article here:https://www.xflashsystems.com/alerting-monitoring/turbulence-det-route-plus/


Plus, a sweet cargo story! Mangoes & Apples! Andrew Tan reported on Air India Cargo’s fruity endeavor with over 3,000 varieties of mangoes, along with the airline’s recent integration of Apple AirTags for baggage tracking (and maybe mango tracking too?)

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]]> Travel demand remains strong, but could tariffs be the turbulence ahead for aviation growth? Let’s not dwell too long on that—because we’re also celebrating a terrific birthday for the airline that starts with “E”! Can you guess which one? Tune in to the episode to find out!


In this week’s episode, Alexandra and David dive into a mix of quirky and serious aviation updates:


  • ·From Finnair’s non-reclining business class AirLounge seat (yes, really!),
  • To reimagining Eurowings catering carts with built-in coffee machines as… champagne & wine fountains?
  • And of course, April 1st wouldn’t be complete without a few clever fake headlines and light-hearted fun.


On the topic of tariff turbulence, we also explore Roger Hall’s insights on turbulence of the airline kind.

Check out the article here:https://www.xflashsystems.com/alerting-monitoring/turbulence-det-route-plus/


Plus, a sweet cargo story! Mangoes & Apples! Andrew Tan reported on Air India Cargo’s fruity endeavor with over 3,000 varieties of mangoes, along with the airline’s recent integration of Apple AirTags for baggage tracking (and maybe mango tracking too?)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Grounded Luxury, Amsterdam Memories & the Airline that Starts With D]]> Mon, 10 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT 1:01:37 67cd7c218c2cf351b111d554 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/67cd7c218c2cf351b111d554 67cd7c218c2cf351b111d554 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 3 3 Alexandra got the opportunity to try out some first-class luxury without even leaving the ground! While David got to relive old memories with a trip to Amsterdam – and the weather was just perfect!


They then jumped into various topics from loyalty to Aviation & AI – ending with the airline of the episode – “D”.

Guess the airline name – It’s a big one!  Nope, we know what you are thinking – it’s not Delta!  You have 3 guesses!

(Hint: They have more than 300 dedicated aircraft & serve over 500 airports globally.)

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]]> Alexandra got the opportunity to try out some first-class luxury without even leaving the ground! While David got to relive old memories with a trip to Amsterdam – and the weather was just perfect!


They then jumped into various topics from loyalty to Aviation & AI – ending with the airline of the episode – “D”.

Guess the airline name – It’s a big one!  Nope, we know what you are thinking – it’s not Delta!  You have 3 guesses!

(Hint: They have more than 300 dedicated aircraft & serve over 500 airports globally.)

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]]> <![CDATA[Planes, Prayers, Squeezing Loyalty & Flying The Stripes!]]> Sat, 15 Feb 2025 08:36:22 GMT 1:06:28 67aeeeb35bd6cff3002ade86 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/67aeeeb35bd6cff3002ade86 67aeeeb35bd6cff3002ade86 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 3 2 It’s already the middle of February! And in this episode of THE SKY LOUNGE podcast, Alex & David talked about a relatively small and unknown airline starting with the letter B! The airline “B” has a very unique product that not many other airlines can lay claim to! But do you need to say a prayer before you take that flight with them?


We discussed the evolution of loyalty programs, airline & product transformation and buzzwords! Oh! We also touched on “flying the stripes”


If you are looking for a podcast with a fun & relaxing but informative take on the aviation industry, THE SKY LOUNGE podcast is the one for you!


LINKS


We also spoke about the LADIES BEYOND FLYING group on LinkedIn! A very passionate group committed to making a change in aviation! Do follow them! Here's the link https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12451302/


Ann Cederhall - White Papers & Buzz words

https://tinyurl.com/2sppu992


Mikko Turtiainen - Trust The Stripes! And Fly Them As Well! 

https://tinyurl.com/yty34zxm


We are also proud to have made it to the Top 100 Aviation Podcasts by Feedspot! Thank you listeners & fellow avgeeks!

Here is the link of the list https://podcast.feedspot.com/aviation_podcasts/


Enjoy! And have a great rest of February!

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]]> It’s already the middle of February! And in this episode of THE SKY LOUNGE podcast, Alex & David talked about a relatively small and unknown airline starting with the letter B! The airline “B” has a very unique product that not many other airlines can lay claim to! But do you need to say a prayer before you take that flight with them?


We discussed the evolution of loyalty programs, airline & product transformation and buzzwords! Oh! We also touched on “flying the stripes”


If you are looking for a podcast with a fun & relaxing but informative take on the aviation industry, THE SKY LOUNGE podcast is the one for you!


LINKS


We also spoke about the LADIES BEYOND FLYING group on LinkedIn! A very passionate group committed to making a change in aviation! Do follow them! Here's the link https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12451302/


Ann Cederhall - White Papers & Buzz words

https://tinyurl.com/2sppu992


Mikko Turtiainen - Trust The Stripes! And Fly Them As Well! 

https://tinyurl.com/yty34zxm


We are also proud to have made it to the Top 100 Aviation Podcasts by Feedspot! Thank you listeners & fellow avgeeks!

Here is the link of the list https://podcast.feedspot.com/aviation_podcasts/


Enjoy! And have a great rest of February!

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]]> <![CDATA[Ryanair’s 2-Drink Limit, IKEA Air & A Mystery Airline That Starts with A]]> Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:00:00 GMT 1:07:43 679753f1ec3194f0e07c71f7 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/679753f1ec3194f0e07c71f7 679753f1ec3194f0e07c71f7 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Starting the year with A full 3 1 Happy New Year! Yes, we know that it is almost the end of January 2025 but is a good reminder how quickly the new year tends to come and go!


In our very first episode of 2025, Alex & self-have tried a slightly different format, where we take some of our LINKEDIN posts and talk a little bit more about them. Alex’s posts tend to be more practical & product focused; Mine tend to be more wishy-washy furtury 😉!


We talked about Ryanair & their liquid wishlist limits of 2 on the ground; What If IKEA had an airline? How airlines number their flights; when all you need is your face to travel; Front of the plane or do you prefer the back? 


And we have a very interesting discussion on an airline very close to Alex’s heart, starting with A (Suspense)!

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]]> Happy New Year! Yes, we know that it is almost the end of January 2025 but is a good reminder how quickly the new year tends to come and go!


In our very first episode of 2025, Alex & self-have tried a slightly different format, where we take some of our LINKEDIN posts and talk a little bit more about them. Alex’s posts tend to be more practical & product focused; Mine tend to be more wishy-washy furtury 😉!


We talked about Ryanair & their liquid wishlist limits of 2 on the ground; What If IKEA had an airline? How airlines number their flights; when all you need is your face to travel; Front of the plane or do you prefer the back? 


And we have a very interesting discussion on an airline very close to Alex’s heart, starting with A (Suspense)!

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]]> Aviation - A More Human World Aviation - A More Human World Tue, 31 Dec 2024 07:24:16 GMT 1:06:22 6772893c146f8422c46ce8ca false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/6772893c146f8422c46ce8ca 6772893c146f8422c46ce8ca 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Will 2025 be a more human aviation world? full 2 8 Alex & David take a look back at 2024! It's been a year full of stars, good memories & lot of travel!, but it has been a year with it's share of sadness as well!


Champagne in economy, free agents versus loyalty - How will 2025 be for the industry?

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]]> Alex & David take a look back at 2024! It's been a year full of stars, good memories & lot of travel!, but it has been a year with it's share of sadness as well!


Champagne in economy, free agents versus loyalty - How will 2025 be for the industry?

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]]> <![CDATA[Airlines - Brunches, Caviar & Plan B!]]> Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:42:29 GMT 1:22:43 672b3e525095c9add9b6e075 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/672b3e525095c9add9b6e075 672b3e525095c9add9b6e075 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Brunch Anyone or Dine on Demand? full 2 7 Welcome to season 2 of The Sky Lounge podcast with Alex & David. The new season starts with a slightly different format with the both of us talking about avgeeky things! This episode has a lot on airline food, a subject that always tends to bring up a lot of emotion!


Blame it on the sugar rush thanks to all the Diwali & Halloween sweets! We hope you enjoy the discussion!

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]]> Welcome to season 2 of The Sky Lounge podcast with Alex & David. The new season starts with a slightly different format with the both of us talking about avgeeky things! This episode has a lot on airline food, a subject that always tends to bring up a lot of emotion!


Blame it on the sugar rush thanks to all the Diwali & Halloween sweets! We hope you enjoy the discussion!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Airlines Business Models Are Changing! Airlines Business Models Are Changing! Tue, 13 Aug 2024 10:30:00 GMT 1:09:49 66b7cd27a20d945cbc00b8c7 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/66b7cd27a20d945cbc00b8c7 66b7cd27a20d945cbc00b8c7 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 But Aviation Geeks Never Change! full 2 6 Change seems to be the mantra for aviation over the last few months! From low cost airlines adding business class & wide-body aircraft, to legacy carriers looking at ways to make more money, there is a lot happening in the industry.


What's in an airline business model anyway - the new model is "The What Works Model". And to add a little drama to all these changes, add in technology meltdowns!


But one thing remains constant - Aviation Geeks! No guest on this episode! Just Alex & David have a chat about all things aviation! Enjoy!

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]]> Change seems to be the mantra for aviation over the last few months! From low cost airlines adding business class & wide-body aircraft, to legacy carriers looking at ways to make more money, there is a lot happening in the industry.


What's in an airline business model anyway - the new model is "The What Works Model". And to add a little drama to all these changes, add in technology meltdowns!


But one thing remains constant - Aviation Geeks! No guest on this episode! Just Alex & David have a chat about all things aviation! Enjoy!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Airline Loyalty, Status & Royalty!]]> Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:15:40 GMT 58:25 6661b68af688a100124812b3 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/6661b68af688a100124812b3 6661b68af688a100124812b3 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 2 5 Don’t you feel like royalty with that airline loyalty card! Lounge access, priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, free seat assignments, and a whole bunch of other nice to have “status” benefits!


This episode of Sky Lounge features Mark Ross-Smith, Loyalty guru  & CEO of Loyalty Status Co., the creator of StatusMatch! Like Mark said in a post “We all intuitively know that loyalty status is the most sought-after, most highly prized thing any aspiring traveller can earn.” – we covered a lot of ground talking about the psychology of loyalty, status, status matches & how airlines are adapting to a changed world!


You could be a free agent like Alex, who prefers trying out different airline products or you could be like David stuck to one airline but worried about a status downgrade – but no matter what sort of traveller you are, this is a must listen-to episode! Hope you enjoy it! 


And don’t forget to have a look at Mark’s LinkedIn profile & Loyalty Status Co

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrosssmith/

https://www.loyaltystatus.com/

https://statusmatch.com/


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]]> Don’t you feel like royalty with that airline loyalty card! Lounge access, priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, free seat assignments, and a whole bunch of other nice to have “status” benefits!


This episode of Sky Lounge features Mark Ross-Smith, Loyalty guru  & CEO of Loyalty Status Co., the creator of StatusMatch! Like Mark said in a post “We all intuitively know that loyalty status is the most sought-after, most highly prized thing any aspiring traveller can earn.” – we covered a lot of ground talking about the psychology of loyalty, status, status matches & how airlines are adapting to a changed world!


You could be a free agent like Alex, who prefers trying out different airline products or you could be like David stuck to one airline but worried about a status downgrade – but no matter what sort of traveller you are, this is a must listen-to episode! Hope you enjoy it! 


And don’t forget to have a look at Mark’s LinkedIn profile & Loyalty Status Co

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrosssmith/

https://www.loyaltystatus.com/

https://statusmatch.com/


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Travel & Fitness - An Unlikely Pair ]]> Tue, 21 May 2024 11:36:50 GMT 38:20 6647334c56d2d80012ecd50b false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/6647334c56d2d80012ecd50b 6647334c56d2d80012ecd50b 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Fitting Fitness Into Travel! full 2 4 Travel and fitness might seem like an unlikely pair. Think about all the trips filled with flights, time zones, different hotels, and busy days where fitness was the last thing on your mind.


And consider the hard-working aviation professionals, both on the ground and in the air, working long and odd hours—fitness often takes a back seat after such hectic schedules.


Today, it's just me, David, here without Alex. I'm joined by a very special guest, my son, Dr. Nihal Studden, a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Nihal will share some simple, easy-to-implement fitness tips for travelers, aviation professionals, and everyone in between! We hope you enjoy and benefit from the discussion!


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]]> Travel and fitness might seem like an unlikely pair. Think about all the trips filled with flights, time zones, different hotels, and busy days where fitness was the last thing on your mind.


And consider the hard-working aviation professionals, both on the ground and in the air, working long and odd hours—fitness often takes a back seat after such hectic schedules.


Today, it's just me, David, here without Alex. I'm joined by a very special guest, my son, Dr. Nihal Studden, a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Nihal will share some simple, easy-to-implement fitness tips for travelers, aviation professionals, and everyone in between! We hope you enjoy and benefit from the discussion!


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]]> India is Skifting! India is Skifting! Mon, 22 Apr 2024 20:49:36 GMT 1:00:29 66265cff04edf1001233e5cb false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/66265cff04edf1001233e5cb 66265cff04edf1001233e5cb 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 2 3 Rafat Ali, the CEO & Founder of SKIFT, the leading news source for travel executives, had a wide-ranging discussion with Alexandra & self on India! 


Skift (verb) - origin: Nordic languages - meaning: Shift; transformation.

 

We could definitely say that India is Skifting, transforming in so many ways, specially when it come to travel.

 

We touched on the "small" Indian weddings, love for mangoes, "juggad" when it comes to sustainability! Home to perhaps the world's largest airline in the not too distant future. And what happens when Mum comes to your conference for the very first time!


Hope you enjoy the discussion as much as we did!

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]]> Rafat Ali, the CEO & Founder of SKIFT, the leading news source for travel executives, had a wide-ranging discussion with Alexandra & self on India! 


Skift (verb) - origin: Nordic languages - meaning: Shift; transformation.

 

We could definitely say that India is Skifting, transforming in so many ways, specially when it come to travel.

 

We touched on the "small" Indian weddings, love for mangoes, "juggad" when it comes to sustainability! Home to perhaps the world's largest airline in the not too distant future. And what happens when Mum comes to your conference for the very first time!


Hope you enjoy the discussion as much as we did!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[February - Short on Days; Long on Love ❤️ & Travel!]]> Mon, 04 Mar 2024 12:48:29 GMT 45:18 65e5c31dbda4f800165ba7c2 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/65e5c31dbda4f800165ba7c2 65e5c31dbda4f800165ba7c2 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 2 2 Alexandra & self, discuss aviation news “worthy” events in February. The shortest month of the year but a very hectic month!  Love was in the air with Valentine’s Day & what better than travel to keep romance alive. And then you had silent airport discos! Airports can be such fun places.


Bots have a mind of their own, as Air Canada discovered. People continue to travel, as the passenger numbers from Dubai Airports highlighted – and when people travel, their bags do too! Airlines have realized that bags are worth billions in extra fees - $33.3 billion to be exact!


We end with a recap of Air India’s safety video – but the fire alarm blaring on David’s side of the podcast was not as musical as Air India’s video 😊

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]]> Alexandra & self, discuss aviation news “worthy” events in February. The shortest month of the year but a very hectic month!  Love was in the air with Valentine’s Day & what better than travel to keep romance alive. And then you had silent airport discos! Airports can be such fun places.


Bots have a mind of their own, as Air Canada discovered. People continue to travel, as the passenger numbers from Dubai Airports highlighted – and when people travel, their bags do too! Airlines have realized that bags are worth billions in extra fees - $33.3 billion to be exact!


We end with a recap of Air India’s safety video – but the fire alarm blaring on David’s side of the podcast was not as musical as Air India’s video 😊

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]]> BeOnd Travel – No Middle Seat! BeOnd Travel – No Middle Seat! Wed, 31 Jan 2024 10:56:07 GMT 1:05:47 65ba223cf834400016d45dc6 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/65ba223cf834400016d45dc6 65ba223cf834400016d45dc6 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 2024 – Hopefully a year BeOnd compare! full 2 1 Gosh, how times flies! It’s the end of January already & here we are with the very first episode of Season 2 of the Sky Lounge podcast!


Alexandra & David catch up on trending aviation news ranging from the recent aircraft scares to Alexandra’s trip on BeOnd; David talks about his experience in the sparkling new Etihad lounge, Abu Dhabi’s Terminal A;


Then you have Air India’s very first A350 - very posh! Finally, it’s time to look forward to the rest of 2024 & maybe a glimpse of David’s attempt at writing his book - “The Things We Leave Behind.”


And before we forget “Happy New Year”

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]]> Gosh, how times flies! It’s the end of January already & here we are with the very first episode of Season 2 of the Sky Lounge podcast!


Alexandra & David catch up on trending aviation news ranging from the recent aircraft scares to Alexandra’s trip on BeOnd; David talks about his experience in the sparkling new Etihad lounge, Abu Dhabi’s Terminal A;


Then you have Air India’s very first A350 - very posh! Finally, it’s time to look forward to the rest of 2024 & maybe a glimpse of David’s attempt at writing his book - “The Things We Leave Behind.”


And before we forget “Happy New Year”

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Aviation 2023 - Reviews, Rankings, Ratings & Snickers ]]> Wed, 27 Dec 2023 07:00:34 GMT 1:06:40 658b2901ff08ae001604d33d false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/658b2901ff08ae001604d33d 658b2901ff08ae001604d33d 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 The Year in Aviation full 1 9 Alexandra & David close the final episode of Season 1 of the Sky Lounge podcast with a look back at the year in aviation. They discuss & rank a number of key airline metrics based on their experiences in 2023. There are plenty of fun ones too - Bananas & Snickers!


As they wrap up this year and reflect on the amazing journey they have had, they take this opportunity to thank all the listeners of Sky Lounge and look forward to Season 2 in 2024!



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Alexandra & David close the final episode of Season 1 of the Sky Lounge podcast with a look back at the year in aviation. They discuss & rank a number of key airline metrics based on their experiences in 2023. There are plenty of fun ones too - Bananas & Snickers!


As they wrap up this year and reflect on the amazing journey they have had, they take this opportunity to thank all the listeners of Sky Lounge and look forward to Season 2 in 2024!



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> An Aviation Human With Many Talents or Many Passions? An Aviation Human With Many Talents or Many Passions? Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:00:08 GMT 48:34 655cc1188667a700124cb4e0 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/655cc1188667a700124cb4e0 655cc1188667a700124cb4e0 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 1 8

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]]>

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Jetting Away on A Jet (Blue) Plane! Jetting Away on A Jet (Blue) Plane! Tue, 24 Oct 2023 04:18:14 GMT 1:08:05 653684a04702040012acc523 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/653684a04702040012acc523 653684a04702040012acc523 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 There is nothing as beautiful as a blue plane if you are an avgeek! full 1 7 Alexandra reverses roles & becomes the interviewee in this episode as she talks about her recent experiences on JetBlue. She had a "mint"ful journey, in particular on their inaugural flight from Amsterdam!

JetBlue is an interesting airline - it's onboard product is more akin to a full service one; and then you have them pioneering the use of narrow body aircraft for trans-Atlantic routes!

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]]> Alexandra reverses roles & becomes the interviewee in this episode as she talks about her recent experiences on JetBlue. She had a "mint"ful journey, in particular on their inaugural flight from Amsterdam!

JetBlue is an interesting airline - it's onboard product is more akin to a full service one; and then you have them pioneering the use of narrow body aircraft for trans-Atlantic routes!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Customer Experience - The Good, The Bad, The Physical & The Digital ]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 18:09:01 GMT 49:14 65146fbed199600011303d2b false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/65146fbed199600011303d2b 65146fbed199600011303d2b 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Making CX matter full 1 6 In this episode, we'll dive into the world of customer experience, with Vimal Kumar Rai. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, what are some of the things that make your journey truly an experience to remember? Or is one of those trips that you sooner forget!


"Airlines have the opportunity to create lasting impressions and build brand loyalty through exceptional customer experiences."

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]]> In this episode, we'll dive into the world of customer experience, with Vimal Kumar Rai. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, what are some of the things that make your journey truly an experience to remember? Or is one of those trips that you sooner forget!


"Airlines have the opportunity to create lasting impressions and build brand loyalty through exceptional customer experiences."

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Bags in the Air Bags in the Air Mon, 07 Aug 2023 15:22:14 GMT 42:58 64d10b1a1749600011ec75a1 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/64d10b1a1749600011ec75a1 64d10b1a1749600011ec75a1 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Transforming the way bags fly? full 1 5 Embarking on a journey is more than just buying a ticket; As travelers, we prepare to explore new horizons, but our trusty companions on these expeditions are often the bags we carry.


These bags, whether they're neatly packed suitcases, reliable backpacks, or stylish totes, hold more than just our belongings – they contain our anticipation, curiosity, and the promise of what's to come.

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]]> Embarking on a journey is more than just buying a ticket; As travelers, we prepare to explore new horizons, but our trusty companions on these expeditions are often the bags we carry.


These bags, whether they're neatly packed suitcases, reliable backpacks, or stylish totes, hold more than just our belongings – they contain our anticipation, curiosity, and the promise of what's to come.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Taking a Seat: The Passionate People Behind Airline Seats Taking a Seat: The Passionate People Behind Airline Seats Tue, 04 Jul 2023 11:30:47 GMT 51:57 64a3f9250b502b0011c1f9ae false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/64a3f9250b502b0011c1f9ae 64a3f9250b502b0011c1f9ae 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 1 4 Have you ever thought about who designed the seat that you sat in on a flight? But, we are sure that it was a key part of your onboard travel experience. This episode of the podcast focuses on aircraft seats and is a captivating listen of the passion, dreams, innovation & dedication of two very special guests;


Jeff O’Neill who is a perennial traveler, aviation enthusiast & avid points collector who runs Zephyr Aerospace, the inventor of Zephyr Seat, which provides affordable access to inflight sleep for all travelers on long haul flights


and


Alejandro Nuñez Vicente a young passionate industrial designer from Madrid, developing and designing Chaise Longue, a double decker seat that will change the way people travel on long-haul flights.  Alejandro's aim is to disrupt boring & outdated economy class with the Chaise Longue Economy seat!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Have you ever thought about who designed the seat that you sat in on a flight? But, we are sure that it was a key part of your onboard travel experience. This episode of the podcast focuses on aircraft seats and is a captivating listen of the passion, dreams, innovation & dedication of two very special guests;


Jeff O’Neill who is a perennial traveler, aviation enthusiast & avid points collector who runs Zephyr Aerospace, the inventor of Zephyr Seat, which provides affordable access to inflight sleep for all travelers on long haul flights


and


Alejandro Nuñez Vicente a young passionate industrial designer from Madrid, developing and designing Chaise Longue, a double decker seat that will change the way people travel on long-haul flights.  Alejandro's aim is to disrupt boring & outdated economy class with the Chaise Longue Economy seat!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Aviation - Past, Present & Future ]]> Mon, 22 May 2023 01:26:34 GMT 49:44 646a11636968910011a6bb3d false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/646a11636968910011a6bb3d 646a11636968910011a6bb3d 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 full 1 3 In this episode, join us for a captivating conversation with Ann Cederhall as we delve into the past, present, and future of aviation.


We explore the remarkable transformations that have occurred in the industry over the last few decades. So many areas have changed, but there are those that still remain rooted in tradition. With technology at the forefront, we ponder whether these ongoing changes will ultimately lead to a better version of aviation. Tune in as we navigate through the dynamic landscape of the aviation industry!


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]]> In this episode, join us for a captivating conversation with Ann Cederhall as we delve into the past, present, and future of aviation.


We explore the remarkable transformations that have occurred in the industry over the last few decades. So many areas have changed, but there are those that still remain rooted in tradition. With technology at the forefront, we ponder whether these ongoing changes will ultimately lead to a better version of aviation. Tune in as we navigate through the dynamic landscape of the aviation industry!


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> New Airlines - From Dreams to Reality New Airlines - From Dreams to Reality Tue, 25 Apr 2023 06:30:37 GMT 1:02:24 6444df6fdcef59001194f149 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/6444df6fdcef59001194f149 6444df6fdcef59001194f149 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Bringing a New Airline to Life full 1 2 Launching a new airline is a daunting task, even in the best of times. But for aviation entrepreneurs, it's a dream they are willing to pursue and see turn into reality. In this podcast episode, we sit down with Manoj Chacko, a passionate aviation entrepreneur and founder of FLY91, a new airline set to launch in India.


In the second half of the episode, we explore the global landscape of new airlines and what it takes for them to succeed. Finally, we take a glimpse into the future, where the aviation industry will be a lot different from the one we see today!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Launching a new airline is a daunting task, even in the best of times. But for aviation entrepreneurs, it's a dream they are willing to pursue and see turn into reality. In this podcast episode, we sit down with Manoj Chacko, a passionate aviation entrepreneur and founder of FLY91, a new airline set to launch in India.


In the second half of the episode, we explore the global landscape of new airlines and what it takes for them to succeed. Finally, we take a glimpse into the future, where the aviation industry will be a lot different from the one we see today!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Airport Lounges 101 Airport Lounges 101 Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:00:34 GMT 1:04:46 6415fea758a2730011c965b5 false https://shows.acast.com/sky-lounge-podcast/episodes/6415fea758a2730011c965b5 6415fea758a2730011c965b5 6415d5803ff45f00116afda0 Luxury spaces or just mass market airport places? full 1 1 Welcome to the very first episode of SKY LOUNGE where we explore the world of airport lounges. Have you ever been curious about what these "exclusive" spaces are all about?


From great airport airside views, gourmet food & drink to comfortable seating, we'll dive into what makes airport lounges the ultimate luxury experience for travelers. But then again, lounges are becoming more mass market focused, as credit card companies, banks & airlines leverage them as powerful sales and loyalty tools!


How will the lounges of the future evolve? What does your dream lounge look like?


All this and more in our very first episode of Sky Lounge!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Welcome to the very first episode of SKY LOUNGE where we explore the world of airport lounges. Have you ever been curious about what these "exclusive" spaces are all about?


From great airport airside views, gourmet food & drink to comfortable seating, we'll dive into what makes airport lounges the ultimate luxury experience for travelers. But then again, lounges are becoming more mass market focused, as credit card companies, banks & airlines leverage them as powerful sales and loyalty tools!


How will the lounges of the future evolve? What does your dream lounge look like?


All this and more in our very first episode of Sky Lounge!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>