Category Archives: Aviation

Etihad starts four flights daily to Karachi from October 2025

Etihad has further increased its flight frequencies to Karachi, Pakistan, with tickets now on sale. This expansion is part of the airline’s ongoing commitment to provide guests with more travel options and enhanced connectivity. From 01 October, 2025, Etihad will start flying four times a day on the Abu Dhabi – Karachi route, providing a total of 28 weekly nonstop services to Pakistan’s economic hub. The enhanced flight frequencies and optimized departure and arrival times are carefully designed to provide guests with maximum convenience and seamless connectivity across Etihad’s expanding global network, including the UAE, the Middle East and Africa, Europe, and North America. This expansion increases the total number of weekly flights to Pakistan to 60, reinforcing Etihad’s commitment to the region. It follows closely on the announcement of new flights to Peshawar, set to commence on 29 September, further strengthening air links between Pakistan and Abu Dhabi.

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Emirates launches complimentary coach service for Economy Class passengers to and from Clark International Airport

In a move to further enhance the travel experience for its Filipino passengers, Emirates will be introducing a new coach service exclusively for Economy Class customers flying to and from Clark International Airport (CRK). The complimentary service will connect Trinoma in Quezon City with Clark International Airport in Pampanga, offering a convenient and seamless transit option. The coach service will be available to Emirates passengers holding a valid flight ticket and traveling between Clark and Trinoma, with pickup and drop-off points located at the New Genesis P2P Trinoma Bus Terminal (code: TRP) and at Clark International Airport (CRK) in Pampanga. The service will be offered exclusively to Economy Class passengers booked on an Emirates flight. To be eligible for the coach service, passengers must hold an Emirates-issued ticket with the ticket number beginning with 176. Travelers must also have a confirmed coach booking at least 48 hours in advance, as those without prior reservation or a valid Emirates ticket will not be allowed to board. When buying flight tickets on emirates.com, customers must specify Trinoma (TRP) as the departure or arrival city to ensure that their booking on the bus is included on their flight ticket. For flight tickets purchased through an Emirates office or travel agent, customers should request the agent to include the Trinoma (TRP) bus on the ticket before issuing the ticket. Other terms and conditions apply. This initiative is part of Emirates’ ongoing commitment to improving accessibility while elevating the travel experience for its Filipino customers, particularly those based in Metro Manila and nearby areas. Through this offering, Emirates aims to make flying from the airport more convenient and stress-free. To learn more about Emirates, or to …

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Etihad and Ethiopian Airlines start strategic codeshare partnership

Etihad and Ethiopian Airlines activated their codeshare agreement, strengthening connectivity between Africa and Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. This bilateral partnership enhances global travel opportunities for guests, with seats available to book now. Ethiopian will start services from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi (AUH) on 15 July, and Etihad Airways introducing daily flights to Addis Ababa starting 8 October. This is the first step ahead of implementation of the groundbreaking Joint Venture agreed between Etihad and Ethiopian in March 2025 unlocking greater travel opportunities for passengers across both networks. The codeshare lets guests simplify their journeys by making a single booking with one check-in process at the start and the added convenience of having their baggage transferred to their final destination. Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer said: “By leveraging our combined networks, we are unlocking seamless travel opportunities between Africa and Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Easy connections via Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, will enhance flexibility, boosting trade and tourism, and delivering unparalleled travel experiences to guests of both airlines.” Under this partnership, Etihad passengers will gain access to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive African network, with connections via Addis Ababa to 55 destinations across 33 countries, including Entebbe, Kinshasa, Kigali, Lusaka, Harare and Victoria Falls expanding their travel options across the continent. At the same time, Ethiopian Airlines passengers can book itineraries connecting to Etihad-operated flights through Abu Dhabi, with onward service to 20 key destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East including Sydney, Krabi, Colombo and Phnom Penh. As part of its commitment to Africa’s growing demand for air travel, Etihad is significantly expanding its network in …

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KlasJet signs ACMI agreement with Air Cairo strengthening air connectivity between Italy, UAE and Egypt

KlasJet has signed an agreement with Air Cairo to provide chartered flights this summer. The agreement sees KlasJet operate charter flights for Air Cairo taking holidaymakers from Milan (Italy) and Sharjah (UAE) to Cairo (Egypt). The partnership between Air Cairo and KlasJet is helping meet an upsurge in tourism, a sector that is vital to Egypt. In the period from July to September last year, tourism revenue hit $4.8 billion, a significant uplift for Africa’s second-largest economy. “We have been able to get alignment on all operational and crew-related topics thanks to the flexible and proactive approach of our team – who flew out to Cairo to ensure everything progressed smoothly – and the strong commitment on both sides to clear communication and a partnership-based approach,” said Vytautas Mikuckas, Head of Wet Lease Department at KlasJet. “We are delighted to be partnering with KlasJet for these charters, and we know they will offer tourists to Egypt an excellent experience that will add to the overall enjoyment of their stay here.” The contract will run until 31st October. Air Cairo was founded in 2003 and is partly owned by EgyptAir, Egypt’s state-owned national airline. The carrier currently operates more than 30 aircraft, mostly A320s, and its main business focus is charter flights from Europe to Egypt’s most popular holiday destinations. KlasJet became the very first ACMI provider based in an EASA-regulated country working with Air Cairo. Despite the differences in procedures and regulations, KlasJet secured a three-day turnaround from signing the agreement to the ferry flight to Cairo on 30th May.  

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Etihad Airways and STARLUX Airlines sign strategic codeshare partnership

Etihad Airways has signed a strategic codeshare agreement with Taipei-based STARLUX Airlines, expanding customer access to Northeast Asia and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a gateway between East and West. The partnership, announced at the International Air Transport Association Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, enables Etihad customers to connect seamlessly to key Japanese cities including Nagoya, Sapporo, and Fukuoka via Taipei, whilst offering STARLUX passengers direct access to Etihad’s European network through Abu Dhabi. Etihad will launch daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Taipei on 7 September 2025, operated by Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The new route creates the foundation for the codeshare partnership, positioning Taipei as a gateway for Etihad’s expansion into Northeast Asia. Etihad customers booking through etihad.com and the airline’s mobile app will benefit from streamlined travel with single-ticket bookings, coordinated check-in processes, and automatic baggage transfers to final destinations across STARLUX’s Asia-Pacific network. The agreement also opens new pathways for STARLUX passengers to reach European destinations including Prague, Madrid, and Barcelona via Abu Dhabi, positioning the emirate as an attractive transit hub for Asian travellers bound for Europe. Both airlines will launch joint marketing initiatives in Taiwan and establish a reciprocal frequent flyer programme by year-end, allowing Etihad Guest members to earn and redeem miles across both networks. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “This partnership with STARLUX Airlines opens new market opportunities in Northeast Asia, giving our customers access to Japan’s key business and leisure destinations through Taipei. STARLUX Airlines’ reputation for premium service aligns perfectly with our standards, and together we’re offering travellers more choice and convenience when connecting across three continents.” Simon Liu, Chief Strategy Officer of …

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Etihad expands its European network with flights to Prague and Warsaw

Etihad Airways celebrated the launch of flights to two new destinations in Central Europe – Prague and Warsaw. The UAE’s national airline operated its inaugural flight to the enchanting Czech capital Prague, one of 16 new destinations the airline will add this year. Next the airline touched down in Warsaw for the first time, adding the vibrant Polish capital to its expanding European network. “Our new Prague and Warsaw services open doors to countless possibilities,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways. “These new routes create a bridge between two remarkable regions, connecting travellers from the Middle East to the heart of Central Europe, while offering seamless connections via Abu Dhabi to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and Australia.” Often called the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, Prague captivates visitors with its stunning Gothic architecture, centuries-old squares, and lively cultural scene. The Czech capital’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases architectural treasures spanning eight centuries, while its modern districts pulse with innovative cuisine, art, and design. Beyond the city, the surrounding region offers picturesque landscapes, from historic castles to renowned spa towns. In Poland, the modern city of Warsaw captivates with its distinctive contrasts – elegant architecture and contemporary skylines, traditional markets and inspired dining scenes, historic parks and cutting-edge cultural venues. This diversity is complemented by Poland’s enticing array of experiences, from medieval cities to pristine forests and mountain ranges. Visitors to the UAE from Czechia and Poland, can enjoy Abu Dhabi’s distinctive blend of tradition and modern luxury. The UAE capital offers everything from the serenity of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the artistic masterpieces of the Louvre Abu …

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Sabre Corporation partners with SalamAir to boost global distribution

Sabre Corporation has announced a partnership with SalamAir, aiming to strengthen SalamAir’s global footprint by leveraging Sabre’s marketplace and worldwide distribution capabilities. Under the new agreement, SalamAir’s full range of flights and services will be accessible to travel agencies across the globe through Sabre’s advanced global distribution system (GDS). The move is expected to significantly enhance the airline’s international visibility, attract new customer segments, and accelerate revenue growth. “Our partnership with Sabre marks a significant milestone in SalamAir’s growth journey,” said Steven Allen, Chief Commercial Officer at SalamAir. “By utilising Sabre’s robust global distribution platform, we aim to achieve greater global visibility, reach new markets, and offer our affordable travel options to a wider audience.” For Sabre, the collaboration highlights its ongoing commitment to supporting airline partners in the Middle East with cutting-edge travel technologies. Recently, SalamAir renewed its long-term agreement with Sabre for the Radixx Reservation System, further reinforcing Sabre’s credibility and reliability as a technology partner.

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Emirates expands East Asia network with new routes to Da Nang and Siem Reap

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has strengthened its presence in East Asia with the launch of two new routes connecting Da Nang, Vietnam, and Siem Reap, Cambodia, via Bangkok. This expansion brings the airline’s East Asian network to 23 destinations, reinforcing its commitment to growing connectivity across the region. The inaugural flight to Da Nang took off on 2 June, followed by the first flight to Siem Reap on 3 June. Operated by the airline’s wide-body Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, the new services provide passengers with Emirates’ signature in-flight experience and seamless connectivity through its global hub in Dubai. Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President, Passenger Sales and Country Management, said that these new services are a significant milestone in our strategy to support travel and trade in East Asia during a time of rapid regional development.  The move underscores Emirates’ ongoing investment in East Asia, reflecting a broader ambition to cater to increasing demand and deepen ties with emerging travel and economic hubs across the region. He added, “Launching two new routes via Bangkok marks a significant milestone in strengthening Emirates’ presence in Southeast Asia and reinforces our long-standing commitment to Thailand as a strategic gateway to the region.”

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Turkish Airlines Chairman Ahmet Bolat Reelected to the IATA Board of Directors

Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Ahmet Bolat, has been reelected to the Board of Directors of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for a second term during the IATA’s 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in New Delhi. During his three-year tenure, Prof. Bolat will continue to contribute to the global aviation vision and represent the industry among other leading aviation executives. IATA is one of the most influential international organizations shaping the global air transport sector. It plays a pivotal role in advocating the strategic interests of its member airlines and guiding the industry on key issues such as sustainability, operational efficiency, and digital transformation. Engagements of the IATA Board of Directors is instrumental in driving progress across the global aviation landscape. Commenting on his reelection, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Ahmet Bolat stated “I am honored to be reelected to the IATA Board of Directors. This responsibility is not only a testament to the strength and vision of our airline, but also a significant opportunity to represent Türkiye’s growing influence in the global aviation arena. As Turkish Airlines, we remain committed to actively contributing to IATA’s strategic initiatives and the future of our industry.” Bolat’s reelection reaffirms to Turkish Airlines’ prominent role in global aviation and its unwavering commitment to fostering international collaboration. It also reinforces Türkiye’s influential voice in shaping the future of the industry at the highest levels of global governance.

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Middle East passenger numbers set to reach 530 million by 2043: IATA

Passenger traffic across the Middle East is expected to soar to 530 million by 2043, effectively doubling from current figures, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The 20-year forecast anticipates an average annual growth rate of 3.9% in passenger numbers from 2023 to 2043, slightly surpassing the global average of 3.8%.  Also, the region is set to achieve the highest net profit per passenger globally, expected to post a net profit of $6.2 billion, representing an 8.7% profit margin, well above the global average, driven by strong economic performance and demand for both business and leisure travel. As per the IATA Passenger reports, “Middle Eastern airlines saw a 14.2 per cent year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 9.9 per cent year-on-year, and the load factor increased by +3.0 percentage points to 79.3 per cent compared to April 2023.” With hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh leading the charge, the focus must now shift to ensuring all parts of the region are equipped to benefit from the coming wave of air traffic and infrastructure development.

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