American Airlines unveils new flight options
American announced a new codeshare said deal with Cathay Dragon which will bring four new destinations to American’s network along with increased frequencies to three existing markets in Southeast Asia. New destinations include Dhaka, Bangladesh, Chiang Mai, and Phuket in Thailand along with Da Nang, Vietnam. Increased frequencies will be available to Kuala Lumpur and Penang, Malaysia and Hanoi, Vietnam. Tickets for the new codeshare flights will go on sale on July 11.

In other news, American said it will boost its presence in the Caribbean and Latin America with the introduction of new flights from JFK to Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Georgetown, Guyana along with new service to both Liberia and San Jose, Costa Rica. American will also convert seasonal routes, from JFK to Antigua and LaGuardia to Aruba, to year-round flights.

British Airways previews new business class; opens refurbished lounge
The long-awaited official launch of British Airways’ transformed business class aboard its new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft is set for October 1 on flights between London and Toronto, with additional routes to be added in the following weeks. However, customers traveling on British Airways in select European markets such as London and Madrid may get to preview the new business class, as the carrier is expected to use the new aircraft on training runs beginning August 6.

Among the many enhancements, the new business class will feature a seat with a door that closes and direct aisle access for everyone.

British Airways also opened its newly refurbished lounge at San Francisco International airport on July 9. The updated lounge can still be found in the same location in Concourse A, between gates A4 and A6, and still features doors that go straight to the jet-ways for most BA flights. New for members are the redone reception area, with a contemporary feel, and a large common space with buffet dining stations for all club guests along with new zoned areas, each having its own distinct flavor. First Class passengers can take advantage of the lounge’s new “Boutique Dining” a la carte sit-down restaurant experience.

Delta to upgrade inflight experience for main cabin passengers on international routes
Officials at Delta Air Lines said main cabin customers on its international flights will be treated to an enhanced experience. Upon boarding, flight attendants will greet passengers with hot towel service, an upgraded amenity kit, and complimentary Bellini cocktails. Passengers will also enjoy a refreshed and enhanced menu. Meals will be served on custom plates with upgraded cutlery. Passengers will be offered a second hot towel service and farewell chocolates. The new amenities will be available on international flights starting in November.

Norwegian Air cuts back on many U.S. routes
The struggling Norwegian Air said it will reduce 10 of its U.S. routes from year-round to just seasonal. The changes will take place in October. Norwegian also said it will move two of its routes from Oakland to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Service to Barcelona will shift to SFO on October 28, while flights to Paris move to SFO on October 30.