Your questions answered: blinky plane update

Today was day two at JFK, and I did not find any blinky planes around (they probably went like hotcakes again before I ever got there around lunchtime).

For those of you who have already inquired, I heard the flashy toys will soon be available through Lufthansa's USA Webstore, which can be found on the homepage at lufthansa.com under Information & Service > Lufthansa USA > Lufthansa Webstore. Since shipping for these items are only to USA addresses, you will find the webstore only if the USA is your default country, or by the direct link above.

A380 takeoff cam

One of the coolest things about the A380 that I learned on Monday is the system of three cameras which are attached to the outside of the aircraft. There is a camera on the tail, one under the belly, and a third near the cockpit. The best part is that the camera views are accessible through the inflight entertainment system.

My new friend Kevin Paige recorded this video of the takeoff from Frankfurt on Monday. Even though he didn't have a window seat, he always had a great view.

A380 coverage on the Early Show

While working crowd control at the terminal today I met for the first time one of our account managers from Boston, Kevin Paige. We had a long discussion about his experience on board, which he really enjoyed. He also was interviewed by the Early Show when he arrived on Monday and posted the video coverage already.

The end of an exciting “A380-day” at the Peninsula Hotel

The arrival of the A380 on Monday, March 19th brought about great excitement to New York. A select few passengers of the A380 flight from Frankfurt were invited to a cocktail reception at the Peninsula Hotel in Manhattan. The invited guests included several VIPs, the press, as well as Airbus and Lufthansa employees. A pianist helped to create a wonderful relaxing atmosphere. It was a perfect way to enjoy the end of an exciting day.

The room quickly filled with conversation where guests exchanged their impressions of the A380. Jens Bischof, Lufthansa Vice President of the Americas, greeted the group and highlighted some information and facts on the “big bird.” Guests then proceeded to enjoy refreshments, delicious food and mini desserts.

The arrival of the A380 has been a success. We expect and look forward to the same rewarding experience in the fall!

First impression A380 at JFK

The best and most unexpected thing on the ground

Lufthansa is fond of branded goodies, which show up at every event we have ever had. Often they are wearable and sometimes they even have blinky LED lights in them. In the past I have avoided these trinkets, but the transparent planes bearing our logo which were passed out today were attractive even to me.

Apparently Lufthansa ordered 1,000 blinky planes, more than twice the number of passengers on board the A380 today. After five boxes disappeared in the span of about an hour and a half, a colleague and I gave up our own because the Lufthansa crew wanted them too, and we were short a few. My friend Antonia really worked the crowd waiting outside customs, spotting all the children and approaching their parents to tempt them with the toys.

The blinky planes have three settings: steady on, slow blink, and alarming (the latter made my heart race). The still photo just didn't capture the effect, so I also got it on video. (It's the bit that looks like electric jello.)

Memorable quotes

If I were to compare it to driving, you would think this would be like driving a truck or a bus. It's like driving a Ferrari.

--Lufthansa pilot Juergen Raps, when asked by the media how the A380 handles