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.
U.S. airlines reported systemwide enplanements of 744.4 million in 2006, up 0.8% from the same period last year. Domestic passenger growth was effectively flat, while international passenger numbers rose 6%. American had the most passengers for the fifth year running, and the most international passengers for the 17th time. Southwest topped the domestic passenger list for the third year in a row. Atlanta was again the busiest U.S. airport, and Miami had the most international passengers.
Philippine Airlines yesterday ordered two Boeing 777-300ERs, with purchase rights for another two. The new additions will let the airline expand its direct flights to the U.S., the carrier said. PAL also signed a letter of intent with GE Commercial Aviation Services (GECAS) to lease two 777-300ER aircraft. The airline already flies five 747-400s and three 737-300s and -400s. PAL's network encompasses 24 foreign and 18 domestic destinations. -AS
Four more major U.S. airports are expected to reach their pre-2001 records for flight numbers within the next few years, joining the 18 already at this mark, FAA Administrator Marion Blakey said yesterday.
