Skift Take

These are the aviation trends we were talking about this week.

Throughout the week we post dozens of original stories, connecting the dots across the travel industry, and every weekend we sum it all up. This weekend roundup examines aviation.

For all of our weekend roundups, go here.

>>With the seat pitch in economy class getting smaller, designers are being forced to innovate using minimal surface area – perhaps that’s why the humble armrest is receiving so much attention: Why Armrest Innovation Is the New Passenger Experience Battleground

>>President Trump’s budget outline shows that his focus on national defense may come at the expense of aviation security and infrastructure improvement. Fortunately, Congress will likely push back against some of these cuts: Trump’s Proposed Budget Would Cut TSA, Amtrak and Airline Services

>>Those who use Avios as a frequent flyer currency will soon have a new budget carrier on which to earn and spend miles. Sadly, Oneworld partners can’t say the same: IAG Launches a Low-Cost Carrier — Skift Business Traveler

>>In the past, authorities have been able to both move fast and be competent, but the complete lack of information provided this time around to travelers so far by airlines and authorities only creates confusion for international travelers: Middle East, African Airlines Restrict Electronic Devices on U.S.-Bound Flights

>>Airlines for America makes a good point. Before Congress raises the security fee on airline tickets, shouldn’t it let TSA use all of the money airlines collect from the fee? U.S. Airlines Push Back Against Proposed TSA Fee Hike

>>This electronics ban will make life inconvenient for travelers on long-haul flights to the U.S. It’s hard not to wonder, however, about the refusal of the U.S. government to detail any specific threat that has been made: U.S. Bans Large Electronic Devices on Inbound Flights From Middle East and Africa

>>It’s interesting that the UK left off three of the busiest airports in the Middle East — Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Why are they making a different calculation than U.S. authorities? The UK Bans Large Electronic Devices on Some Flights From Middle East

>>Leave it to Emirates to poke fun at the increasingly confusing electronics ban while marketing its diverse in-fight entertainment offerings: Emirates Uses New Electronics Ban to Tout Its In-Flight Entertainment

>>A ban on large electronic devices may be necessary to keep travelers safe, but many in the travel community are not happy with how U.S. and UK authorities announced the new policy. Could we see some tweaks to the rules in the near future? Travel Industry Reacts With Caution and Frustration to New Airline Electronics Ban

>>Many industry insiders are surprised the U.S. electronics ban includes flights from Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. Is there a valid security concern for adding those airports? Or could something more sinister be taking place? Decoding the True Meaning of the Middle East Laptop Ban

>>The big surprise would have been if Alaska Airlines kept the Virgin America brand. This isn’t a big deal, and it’s nice that Alaska will be upgrading many of its products in the next three years. New Wi-Fi can’t come soon enough: Alaska Airlines To Drop Virgin America Brand by 2019

>>The fact that Grayling’s comments came on the same day as a terrorist attack on London underlines the threat posed. Nevertheless, so many questions remain unanswered: UK Transport Secretary Reveals Little About Reasoning Behind Electronics Ban

>>Passengers traveling through Newark’s Terminal C have some more efficient security lines to look forward to: United Is Expanding Upgraded Screening Lanes at Newark Airport

>>Our experts weigh in on why you should think twice before booking the very cheapest airfare these days: Skift Podcast: Why Flights Are So Cheap (And You Might Hate Yours)

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Tags: Travel Trends, trends roundups

Photo credit: Royal Jordanian Airlines won't allow mobile phones, tablets, and laptops in economy class for U.S.-bound flights, according to published reports. Royal Jordanian Airlines

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