Garuda Indonesia is facing pressure on yields because of over-capacity and weak economic growth, forcing it to restructure its fleet and defer some aircraft deliveries. Garuda and its budget carrier, Citilink, face intense competition from privately held Lion Airlines, which has become a dominant local player, helped by aggressive expansion. "The markets seem to be in over-capacity, not only domestic but also regional," Garuda president Arif Wibowo said. He said air traffic at the carrier had been hurt by weaker demand from the natural resources sector due to the collapse in prices for oil, gas and other commodities. He said Garuda had been deferring deliveries of some planes, adding that the airline is also restructuring its fleet to fit in more economy seats at the expense of first class seats in most of its aircraft. <br/>
sky
It is no secret that airlines are waging an increasingly pitched battle for the biggest-spending passengers who fly in premium classes: The carriers have deployed amenities like fluffy feather duvets and spa treatments. Now, Delta Air Lines is trying to gain an edge with its food — a decidedly tall order. The company has struck an alliance with Union Square Hospitality Group, the food service empire behind Shake Shack and restaurants like Union Square Cafe, Blue Smoke and Gramercy Tavern. The goal is to serve food in its Delta One cabin on international flights from Kennedy International that is as just as good as the food set on the table in Union Square’s restaurants. “We really want to change the conversation around what airline food is,” said Allison Ausband, senior VP for in-flight service at Delta. <br/>