Adrian is Auckland bureau chief for Aviation Week, based in New Zealand. He covers commercial aviation in the Asia-Pacific region.
Adrian was previously based in Aviation Week’s Washington office for nine years, writing for a range of the group’s publications and covering many aspects of the commercial aviation industry. He has won Australasian and international awards for his aviation writing.
Prior to joining Aviation Week in 2002, Adrian covered aviation industry and policy issues for two other publishing companies in Washington. He has also worked for newspapers in Texas and New Zealand, covering a wide range of topics. Adrian graduated from Auckland University with a degree in history and English in 1992.
ATA Airlines parent Global Aero Logistics has taken a giant step forward in its move to take over World Air Holdings -- the parent of North American Airlines and World Airways -- although the merger is worrying pilots at the three carriers. World Air shareholders voted almost unanimously to approve the takeover, which still needs the approval of the U.S. Transportation Dept. Meanwhile, the respective pilot unions warn they will not tolerate any efforts to move flying or personnel among the three carriers.
Continental yesterday revealed a significant reduction in its planned capacity growth for next year, due mainly to the airline's decision to sell 15 Boeing 737-500s. The airline's mainline capacity is now expected to grow 3%-4% in 2008, compared with earlier projections of 5%-7%. JP Morgan analyst Jamie Baker welcomed the move, as it represents "a refreshing change for a management not particularly versed in the art of supply discipline." Mainline capacity is expected to be up 5% this year.
American managed to increase its second-quarter net profit to $317 million -- compared with $291 million last year -- even though the airline's Dallas/Fort Worth hub was struck by the worst run of early summer weather in 80 years. CEO Gerard Arpey noted the carrier had "difficulties with mother nature" during the quarter, and CFO Thomas Horton added the airline is "just praying for better weather" in the third quarter. Thunderstorm-related disruptions cost $50 million in revenue, causing consolidated revenue to fall 1.6% to $5.9 billion.
