Author: gabig@wp

Interview with Christi Tannahill, Textron Aviation’s Senior Vice-President Customer Experience

Who is Christi Tannahill, and what is the most important aspect of your role?

I have dedicated the majority of my career to customer service and support. Prior to my current role at Textron Aviation, I held the position of senior Vice-President of turboprop aircraft and interior design. In this role, I oversaw the development of our popular turboprop platforms and led the interior design team. I assumed the position of senior Vice-President of interior design and engineering in 2016. Currently, as senior Vice-President of Customer Experience at Textron Aviation, I am responsible for the interior design and engineering functions across the entire product lineup of the company.

I am married, with 3 children, and a very proud mother. It’s wonderful to be a proud mother, especially when your children have achieved significant milestones in their education. Having two graduates from college, one from Law school, and one currently in junior high school is a great accomplishment.

Each of my children’s educational journeys is unique and represents their individual efforts and paths to success. As a parent, I have played an essential role in supporting and guiding them along the way. I continue to encourage and nurture my children as they progress through their education.

One of the things I love about my job is that I always say I have the best job in the company. I have the opportunity to work closely with customers throughout the entire process, from market research to delivering the airplane. My responsibilities include marketing events like EBACE and overseeing the organization of these events.

I am also involved in designing both the interior and exterior of our products. It’s a rewarding experience to meet with customers even before they become our customers and then deliver the airplane to them when they take delivery. I am fortunate to have an amazing team that consistently performs exceptionally well.

However, the best part of my job is the ability to build relationships with customers, starting from the interior design phase and listening to their needs all the way through to delivering the final product.

How do you balance the need for aesthetics and functionality in the interior design of Textron Aviation’s aircraft, while maintaining a focus on customer experience?

That’s a great question.

The customers’ visionary board is extremely valuable because it allows us to address their needs effectively. When our customers become part of the team, they have the opportunity to share their preferences without any limitations. They communicate everything they desire to have in the airplane.

For example, I often discuss the idea of having a couch in the cabin as a differentiating factor. However, we also maintain transparency by informing them about the potential cost and additional weight associated with their requests.

This open dialogue is essential for making informed decisions. We utilize the information provided by the customers to understand their priorities. They may quickly realize that certain costs or added weight are not favorable to them, but they acknowledge the importance of certain aspects. Even when dealing with a diverse customer base and customer advisory board, we strive to determine what is best for the airplane in terms of performance, design, and functionality. The feedback provided by our customers ensures that we align our efforts with their desires accurately.

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PJE

Guide to the 10 Best Romantic Getaways around the world

Guide to the 10 Best Romantic Getaways around the world, by Luxury Lifestyle Awards

Luxury Lifestyle Awards knows how to select the best luxury brands in different industries around the world. In honour of the month of love, we are thrilled to bring you our Guide to the 10 Best Romantic Getaways around the world! Celebrating love on a whole new level we have selected the World’s finest for a romantic experience of a lifetime.

Constance Lemuria – Seychelles

Many different places are suitable for the year-round celebration of the month of love, and Constance Lemuria is one of them. Here you and your partner can experience an everyday celebration of love and romantic perfection. Start the day by indulging in fine food. Take time to unwind in a coastal paradise nestled among the empty white sandy beaches, lush flora, and fauna. Treat yourself and your partner to a customized spa treatment to revive your senses. Constance Lemuria also offers a Kids Club, run by fully trained coordinators that will lead your children to wonderful island exploration trips, culinary activities, scavenger hunts, and more, to give couples with little ones, a much-needed break for some one one-on-one time.

The Hanging Gardens of Bali – Indonesia

The picturesque Hanging Gardens of Bali always provide you with an ambiance of relaxation and calmness. This is one of the best and most memorable getaways with a loved one. The luxurious Bali villa resort is located in the heart of the Bali jungle, North of Ubud, Payangan. The stunning views of the Ayung River and Dalem Segara temple are surrounded by lush rainforests and picturesque rice terraces creating a special location. This destination is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, holding the title of the “World’s First Seven Stars Boutique Hotel” and is one of the best Bali honeymoon resorts.

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Audi presents Formula 1 project in China

Audi presents Formula 1 project in China

Audi is presenting its Formula 1 project in China for the first time from April 18 to 27: The F1 show car with the striking Audi Launch Livery is a central element of the brand’s presence at Auto Shanghai.

Audi CEO Markus Duesmann has provided insight into the current progress of the project during the press conference.

Under the motto “F1 Power made in Germany” the company is preparing to enter the top class of motorsport.

From 2026, Audi will compete in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship with its own factory team and a power unit developed in Germany. “Motorsport is an integral part of our DNA,” said Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, at Auto Shanghai.

“We are convinced that our Formula 1 commitment will strengthen Audi’s sporting focus. The racing series is continuously increasing its global reach, especially among young target groups and in our most important sales market: China.”

The Chinese Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit could not take place for a fourth consecutive time due to the pandemic, and this makes him even happier to give Chinese Formula 1 fans a preview of Audi’s future involvement in the top class of motorsport.

“The Audi Formula 1 project has really taken off in recent months,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG.

“In the ongoing concept phase of the power unit, the foundation of our drivetrain for 2026 is being laid today. We attach great importance to detail work, for example on materials or manufacturing technologies, and we also focus on topics such as the energy management of the hybrid drivetrain. After all, efficiency is a key success factor for Formula 1 and the mobility of the future, these approaches will advance both worlds,” says Hoffmann.

Valuable insights in the development, for the test bench setup and validation of the measuring instruments are provided by a single-cylinder engine that has been tested since the end of 2022. The first full hybrid drivetrain unit, consisting of the combustion engine, electric motor, battery and electronic control unit, is scheduled to run on the test bench before the end of this year and will form the basis for the future vehicle concept. On top of that, the dynamic development simulator in Neuburg will be brought up to Formula 1 standards and will further advance the development of the Audi power unit.

 

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PJE

SITA & Volocopter Collaborate on Digital Infrastructure for Vertiports

New partnership agreement sees SITA join Volocopter’s Series E funding round

Bruchsal, Germany/Amsterdam, Netherlands, 14 March 2023 – Volocopter, the pioneer of urban air mobility (UAM), and SITA, the world’s leading IT provider to the air transport industry, have entered a partnership, with SITA selected as Volocopter’s preferred digital and IT systems partner for vertiports.

Under the agreement, SITA has become the latest investor to join Volocopter’s Series E funding round, cementing the strategic vision espoused by this partnership.

UAM will offer a new form of sustainable aviation, replete with multiple mobility options to cities worldwide. The company’s launch product, the VoloCity electric air taxi, will operate routes in congested megacities to offer future passengers stable, quiet, and safe flights. Flights can be hailed via designated boarding points (or “vertiports”). The partnership therefore has the potential to shape aviation industry standards.

SITA will deploy its expertise in air transport for the emerging UAM industry, developing new operating standards and a digital-first passenger experience. SITA’s portfolio includes a wide range of IT solutions, including airport management and operations, passenger operations, flight and aircraft operations, baggage processing, and border management.

READ more on SITA & Volocopter Collaborate on Digital Infrastructure for Vertiports – Rhapsody Magazine (rhapsody-magazine.com)

pje

Gulfstream Recognized for Sustainability Leadership by NBAA

Gulfstream Recognized for Sustainability Leadership by NBAA

National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Awards Gulfstream Inaugural Sustainable Flight Department Accreditation

This program was launched in 2022 by NBAA to recognize “business aviation entities meeting exceptional environmental sustainability standards.”

Gulfstream’s long-term culture of innovation drives sustainable products and practices through cutting-edge aircraft technology, responsible operations, and investments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Last month, Gulfstream was the industry’s first business aircraft original equipment manufacturer to fly on 100% SAF. In addition, Gulfstream facilities include more than 2.2 million square feet of green buildings both in the U.S. and the U.K. Thanks to Gulfstream’s increased focus on sustainable operations, the company has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 18% since 2014 while expanding facilities by 30%.

“WE APPRECIATE THE PARTNERSHIP WITH NBAA TO RECOGNIZE OUR SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS. THESE ACCREDITATIONS ENCOMPASS OUR HOLISTIC COMMITMENT TO LEADING OUR INDUSTRY TOWARD ITS GOALS FOR CARBON NEUTRALITY, AND WE ARE PROUD TO BE THE FIRST ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER TO BE IDENTIFIED FOR THESE EFFORTS ACROSS ALL FOUR CATEGORIES — FLIGHT, GROUND SUPPORT, OPERATIONS, AND INFRASTRUCTURE.”  – MARK BURNS, PRESIDENT, GULFSTREAM.

Inspired by the belief that aviation could fuel business growth, Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. invented the first purpose-built business aircraft, the Gulfstream I, which first flew in 1958.

Today, more than 3,000 aircraft are in service around the world. Together with parent company General Dynamics, Gulfstream consistently invests in the future, dedicating resources to researching and developing innovative new aircraft, technologies, and services. With a fleet that includes the super-midsize Gulfstream G280, the high-performing Gulfstream G650 and Gulfstream G650ER, and a next-generation family of aircraft including the all-new Gulfstream G400, the award-winning Gulfstream G500 and Gulfstream G600, the flagship Gulfstream G700 and the ultralong-range Gulfstream G800, Gulfstream offers an aircraft for every mission.

 

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privatejetseurope.com

TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts 2022

Best of the Best in Hospitality Industry in the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts

Luxury Lifestyle Awards Reveals the Best of the Best in Hospitality Industry in the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts

TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts

In all the diversity of hotels and destinations, quality and exclusivity have become cornerstones. Quality recreation is something that successful people are not willing to compromise on.

The strict criteria that Luxury Lifestyle Awards experts apply during market research and evaluation of nominees meet the highest standards and expectations of travellers. The LLA team has prepared a list of the top 100 establishments that will bring the most positive emotions to sophisticated vacationers.

The pandemic events of recent years have made humanity appreciate in a special way the opportunity to travel and discover the world in all its diversity and beauty.

In the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts, you will find establishments that have convincingly demonstrated their commitment to impeccable service and attention to guest needs.

Check out the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. Discover the world at its best with the leaders in the hospitality market: https://luxurylifestyleawards.com/news/luxury-lifestyle-awards-reveals-the-best-of-the-best-in-hospitality-industry-in-the-top-100-hotels-resorts

Private Jets Europe

Mountain Hub Gourmet, a sublime food experience

Mountain Hub Gourmeta Michelin-starred restaurant, is the new Fine Dining Restaurant of the Hilton Munich Airport. Reopened in September 2021, is set against the majestic backdrop of the Alps, right next to Munich Airport. The restaurant’s 33-year-old chef, Stefan Barnhusen has been head chef at Mountain Hub Gourmet since September 2020. He previously worked in the Michelin one-starred Jellyfish restaurant in Hamburg, and at Seehotel Überfahrt on Lake Tegernsee under the three-star chef Christian Jürgens.

The restaurant itself is spacious and boasts a stylish, modern design with an unusual semi-circular floor plan. It’s everything that you would expect it to be, and more, with an attentive and helpful service team, headed up by maître d’ Johannes J. Gahberger. Service-driven they aim to inspire while staying true to their ethos of generous hospitality.

A sophisticated world-class establishment, of the highest excellence, that celebrates the diversity of its guests by offering a sublime food experience. Intended for those with an appreciation for the exceptional, Mountain Hub Gourmet caters to international visitors and locals alike, whether it’s for a business lunch between flights or dinner and an evening of romance.

Using only the best ingredients and fresh, seasonal produce from the area, together with his refined ability, the food is meticulously and magically transformed by a passion to another level. Not only a symphony of flavours but a feast for the eye, each dish is beautifully and playfully presented with the utmost precision and extravagant artistic flair, perfectly balanced by colour, texture, and attention to detail.

privatejetseurope

La Zambra – The Ultimate Mediterranean Getaway

La Zambra has recently been awarded by the experts at Luxury Lifestyle Awards for Best Luxury New Hotel in Andalusia, Spain, in 2022, confirming the hotel’s luxury ambiance and opulent amenities. The reborn hotel that was once known as Byblos hotel for its celebrity status and luxurious activities, has joined The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – dedicated to inspiring its guests to write their unique holiday story of a relaxed and luxurious getaway. The hotel offers a plethora of world-class suites and rooms, traditional yet immersive gastronomy, as well as a tranquil spa and fun activities.

Created by architecture firm Esteva I Esteva, the hotel includes 197 rooms and suites which express soft, tranquil, and relaxing tones, inducing Andalusian essence with a breathtaking backdrop of the luscious landscapes. The use of natural materials embodies the intimate atmosphere of the hotel’s Spanish-Mediterranean architecture and interior.

Room and suite options include garden and golf course views, luxurious amenities, soft linens, and premium experiences like a walk-in rain shower. The hotel offers four different dining concepts that are sure to impress anyone’s tastebuds. Enjoy a combination of innovative and traditional meals that tell stories about La Zambra’s cultural heritage. Experience all-day Mediterranean fare at Palmito’s, neo-tavern dishes paired with the world’s finest wines at Picador, a diverse menu of snacks and drinks at Bambolea Bar, and casual fare at La Bartola, a Spanish-inspired beach bar.

 

 

 

Greek Caldera Yachting Promises a lifetime experience aboard its Luxury Santorini Cruise

Greek Caldera Yachting Promises a lifetime experience aboard its Luxury Santorini Cruise

Caldera Yachting was awarded by Luxury Lifestyle Awards with the Best Luxury Private Cruises in Greece in 2022.

Based in Santorini, Greece, Caldera Yachting promises and delivers the optimal sailing experience. The company is specialized in all-inclusive shared and private cruises, on a wide variety of brand-new vessels. Yachts, luxury catamarans, monohulls, motor yachts, traditional and rib boats, elegantly combine comfort and safety.

Founded in 2009, the business had just two boats and was supported by a team of five. In 2019, just before the pandemic, the company reached 18 yachts and a team of over 100 who have welcomed and served in excess of 50,000 guests – which is a phenomenal achievement.In 2022, Caldera Yachting boasts a fleet of 22 yachts. A milestone in the company’s journey was being accredited with the ISO 9001: 2015.

The company has been participating in the Greek Tourism Awards since 2015 and until 2021 has won silver and gold awards in the categories ‘Sea Tourism’ and ‘Customer Service’. In 2017 Caldera Yachting was honoured with the award ‘Charter Company of the Year’, ranking it among the best in the world, while in 2018 it came back from London with the title ‘Best in Luxury’ from the International Travel & Tourism Awards by WTM.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sofitel Baru Calablanca Beach Resort – Celebrated for Colombia’s First Luxury Resort

Sofitel Baru Calablanca Beach Resort – Celebrated for Colombia’s First Luxury Resort

Sofitel Baru Calablanca Beach Resort is Colombia’s first luxury resort and is set on the idyllic white sandy beaches of Isla, Barú. The highly anticipated resort opened its doors on December 1st, 2021.

The new hotel is the third Sofitel in Colombia and the country’s first-ever opulent beach destination. The picturesque property sophisticatedly combines Sofitel’s French heritage with the essence of the Caribbean.

Located just 25 minutes from the city of Cartagena, the resort is nestled amid the natural beauty and cultural affluence of Barú. The hotel features an impressive 187 modern and chic rooms, including a presidential suite and 22 luxurious suites, all equipped with terraces and balconies facing the tranquil and turquoise Caribbean Ocean.

This hidden gem of a resort has been awarded by the experts at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards for Best Luxury New Resort in South America 2022, and it’s easy to see why. It features four restaurants, seven bars, and a food truck all under the culinary direction of Patrice Guaus, the world-renowned French chef. These include Calablanca Restaurant and bar, which is a combination of divine Mediterranean and Colombian cuisines, prepared with farm-to-table ingredients and ancestral techniques, Bahía Restaurant & bar overlooking the magic waters of the Caribbean, our unique slow-cooking grill offers mouthwatering dishes that will be perfectly coupled with local cocktails, Humo Restaurant offers dinner-only featuring a robata grill concept inspired by Asian fare.

Guests can enjoy cocktails throughout several social spaces around the resort. La Pergola rooftop terrace is the perfect space to watch Barú’s magical sunsets and our new gastronomic proposal on wheels El Manglito Food truck that is a fun and innovative way to serve guests and visitors who are enjoying the beautiful beaches of Barú.