He started his journalism career in 1992 as a freelance writer for Sueddeutsche Zeitung, Germany’s largest daily national newspaper and soon specialised in air transport. Jens joined Aviation Week and Aviation Daily in 2000 as one of the European correspondents. Later his role was expanded to cover international air transport. In 2013 he was named Managing Editor Commercial.
Jens frequently appears on radio and TV to comment on industry matters. In 2003, he received the Hugo Junkers Award of the German aviation press for his coverage of Fairchild Dornier’s bankruptcy. He was named the country’s top travel and air transport writer by the Travel Industry Club three times. Jens graduated from the Munich School of Journalism.
Robert Wall (Istanbul), Jens Flottau (Istanbul), Adrian Schofield (Istanbul)
How much longer can the paradox last: airlines are going bust yet demand for aircraft remains strong? Aircraft makers are increasingly anxious about the financial turmoil shaking their customers and what it all means for them. At least one senior industry official says a sharp downturn in orders is inevitable. But so far, delays in deliveries and canceled orders due to bankruptcies are being offset by airlines looking for more aircraft, says Airbus CEO Tom Enders.
The SkyTeam alliance is talking to several potential new members. Discussions are underway with China Airlines, China Eastern, Malaysian, Vietnam, Kingfisher and Jet Airways as well as Gol/Varig, according to Chairman Leo van Wjik. Formal talks will start with Vietnam Airlines. SkyTeam is also talking to Bangkok Airways, Rossiya and Uzbekistan Airways about becoming associate members.
Forced to issue a profit warning for the second time this year, Air Berlin is reconsidering major parts of its current strategy and could make changes in weeks. CEO Joachim Hunold said he is reviewing “the entire long-haul operation” and will make a decision on measures in the next three to four weeks.
