Virgin America has chosen former American Airlines Global Sales Vice-President David Cush to succeed Fred Reid as Chief Executive of the low-cost start-up carrier.

Gerry Cahill is the new president and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines, replacing Bob Dickinson, who officially retired on November 30 after 35 years with the company. The two executives worked together for several months as Cahill transitioned into his new post.

A cruise ship takes on water in the Antarctic and three more come quickly to the rescue: A blessing for the survivors, to be sure. But also an indication of a tourism boom that critics say threatens Antarctica’s environment and puts passengers at risk.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned the world’s airlines of a severe pilot shortage unless industry and government work together to change training and qualification practices. IATA issued a new estimate that the industry may need 17,000 new pilots annually due to expected industry growth and retirements.

Grenada has adopted a mandatory standard for the licensing of all hotels, guest houses, apartments and other properties that offer services in the accommodation sector of the tourism industry.

Singapore and the Slovak Republic concluded an Open Skies Agreement (OSA) on November 22, allowing for full flexibility on air services operated by carriers of both countries. The agreement was reached during air services consultations which took place from November 20 to 22 in Singapore.