Category Archives: Aviation

Etihad Airways has enhanced its digital platforms with new features that make travel easier and more personalised for guests. The improvements to etihad.com and the Etihad Airways mobile app introduce new market-specific payment options, expanded self-service capabilities, and enhanced loyalty programme features. Guests can now pay using local payment methods across key markets including India and Europe, easily modify their bookings through the improved self-service options, and seamlessly redeem Etihad Guest miles for flights and upgrades. The enhanced platforms also offer a more intuitive booking process with features such as calendar-based fare searches and local language options. In the Indian market specifically, customers benefit from Hindi language support, locally preferred payment options, and an innovative fare calendar that makes finding the best travel deals easier. These market-specific improvements reflect Etihad’s commitment to meeting the distinct needs of its global customer base. Looking ahead, Etihad Airways is focused on further enhancing the customer experience, with upcoming improvements to the check-in process and more accurate, timely travel updates. These changes will make the entire travel journey, from booking to arrival, even more seamless for guests. Frank Meyer, Chief Digital Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “Our commitment to digital innovation is unwavering. By consistently refining our digital touchpoints, we’ve been able to rapidly implement enhancements that directly benefit our customers. This agile approach allows us to stay at the forefront of the competitive airline industry and consistently exceed passenger expectations.” Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, added: “The growth in our digital channels has been remarkable, with online direct sales increasing significantly across our key markets. The close collaboration between our Commercial and Digital Technology teams has enabled us to …

Emirates has introduced Chauffeur-Drive Services (CDS) in Riyadh, further elevating the travel experience for discerning premium passengers arriving at and departing from King Khalid International Airport. Emirates customers travelling in First and Business Class will enjoy a stress-free, comfortable journey with a door-to-door experience that reflects the airline’s exceptional onboard experience and premium services. First and Business Class customers can request for CDS on any of the airline’s three daily flights to and from Riyadh. The exclusive service is complimentary for customers within a 100-kilometre radius of the airport. Excess Mileage will apply for areas beyond the served radius*. Emirates Chauffeur-Drive Services are currently offered in over 70 cities within the Emirates’ network. Emirates’ Chauffeur-Drive service can be booked through Manage My Booking option on www.emirates.com or Emirates’ call centres as well as through travel agents. Bringing a new level of comfort and luxury to Saudi Arabia. Emirates’ recent investments in its operations to the Kingdom underpin the airline’s commitment to bringing a new, heightened level of service and hospitality, both in the air and on the ground, for customers flying to and from one of Emirates’ most important markets globally.This includes a new dedicated lounge at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The US$5.4 million, 900-square-metre lounge located in the airport’s newest Terminal 1 welcomes 190 guests at any one time, with seating tailored to the needs of business and leisure travellers. In early October, Riyadh became Emirates’ first GCC destination to welcome the airline’s refurbished Boeing 777, offering passengers an all-new Business Class cabin and highly acclaimed Premium Economy seats. The four-class Emirates Boeing 777 offers 24 Premium Economy seats, giving customers the opportunity to treat themselves to a more spacious seat …

Despite ongoing global geopolitical tensions, bottlenecks in aircraft production, and engine problems, Turkish Airlines continued its growth uninterruptedly thanks to its agility and extensive flight network, increasing passenger capacity by 5.4% in the third quarter of 2024. In the July-September period of 2024, Turkish Airlines’ total revenues increased by 4.9% year-on-year to 6.6 billion USD, even with the high base effect from the same period in 2023. Passenger revenues, which accounted for 84% of the total, increased to 5.6 billion USD driven by the strong contribution from the Far East region. At the same time, our Incorporation’s third-quarter cargo revenues rose by 47% year-on-year to 911 million USD. Turkish Cargo increased the amount of cargo transported by 16.8% compared to the same period in 2023 and became the world’s third-largest air cargo carrier in September, with a market share of 5.7%, according to data published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Due to competitive pressure on passenger unit revenues along with the negative impacts of global inflationary environment and engine problems on costs, Profit from Main Operations recorded as 1.3 billion USD in the third quarter of 2024. Our Incorporation’s EBITDAR amounted to 2.3 billion USD and EBITDAR margin stood at 35.2%, exceeding both its historical average and peers. Financial income generated through Turkish Airlines’ effective and dynamic portfolio management also played a key role in supporting net profit. Aiming to expand its fleet to 800 aircraft by 2033 as part of its 100th Anniversary Strategy, Turkish Airlines increased its number of aircraft by 9% in the first nine months of the year to 467 in spite of bottlenecks in aircraft production. As a part of its diversification strategy …

Sabre Corporation  announced a major milestone in air travel distribution for India, with the launch of New Distribution Capability (NDC) content for Air India, the country’s flagship airline. As part of Air India’s strategic modernization efforts, the introduction of NDC offers through Sabre will enhance the way Sabre-connected travel agents shop, book and service Air India reservations. Sabre’s NDC capabilities, a core component of its multi-source content platform, will provide agencies with rich content and real-time offers from Air India, ultimately, giving travelers greater transparency, choice, and flexibility. Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said: “At Air India, our aim is to deliver superior customer service through innovative technologies. By continuing to enhance our partnership with Sabre, we’re able to advance our NDC journey to meet the evolving needs of travel agencies and passengers, providing an enhanced experience.” Sabre and Air India already have an agreement in place to distribute Air India’s traditional content, both in India and globally. With the launch of NDC offers through Sabre, Air India aims to further optimize its distribution strategy, providing travel agencies with a broader range of real-time offers. By using Sabre’s technology, the airline will be able to offer a more streamlined, efficient shopping experience that meets the dynamic needs of the modern traveller. “We’re energized to extend our collaboration with Air India by launching their NDC content and helping to enhance their distribution capabilities,” said Kathy Morgan, Senior Vice President of Product Management, Distribution Experience, Sabre Travel Solutions. “India is a key market for Sabre and for the travel industry overall as it fuels increased demand for travel. It’s important that the airline can distribute its NDC content easily to …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will be the official destination partner for the Air Expo 2024, set to take place from 19-21 November at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), underscoring the emirate’s prominence as a key facilitator of diverse, high-level MICE events in the region. Abu Dhabi Air Expo is one of the most successful aviation exhibitions within the region. Alternating with Dubai Airshow, the exhibition is designed for professionals and offers visitors a wide and representative range of the ever-growing aviation industry. Air Expo 2024 will bring together over 20,000 aviation professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from around the globe, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and advancements in the dynamic aviation and aerospace sectors. It will also feature keynote addresses from thought leaders, and a special focus on the future of aviation through the Advanced Air Mobility segment, which explores the latest innovations in urban air transport, drone technologies, and sustainable aviation solutions. Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau ADCEB, said: “We are proud to partner with Air Expo 2024, offering a premier platform for innovation, knowledge exchange, and development in this exciting sector. As we welcome enthusiasts and experts from around the globe, we aim for the event to further showcase Abu Dhabi’s unmatched destination offering and its vast potential as a world-class host for large-scale MICE events, delivering success and value for all involved.” As the Official Destination Partner, DCT Abu Dhabi will strengthen collaborations with key partners while advancing the emirate’s status as a global destination for business events, tourism, and investment. Through its partnership with Air Expo 2024, DCT Abu Dhabi will showcase …

Oman Air is expanding its Moscow service for the winter, enhancing connectivity between Muscat and the Russian capital. The expansion is among several enhancements to Oman Air’s winter schedule as it continues to cater to its guests’ travel preferences, while offering more choice and convenience, whether for business or leisure. From 1 December with five weekly flights and to six weekly flights from 25 December to 29 March 2025. Outbound flights will depart from Muscat at 15:25 and arrive in Moscow at 21:00, while return flights will depart from Moscow at 22:20 and arrive in Muscat at 05:40. “We are excited to offer greater flexibility and connectivity with increased flights to Moscow, a key destination on our winter schedule. The route will now be served by our B737 aircraft, an adjustment which both allows us to effectively and sustainably expand our services, while navigating constraints in relation to the operational environment,” said Mike Rutter, Oman Air’s Chief Commercial Officer. “We continue to look into increasing capacity across our network to cater to seasonal demand, underscoring our commitment to providing enhanced travel choices and a superior travel experience for our guests.” With historic landmarks, festive events and a huge variety of snow-based activities, Moscow is the ultimate winter destination. Guests can choose to fly in either Business and Economy Class, enjoying spacious seats, world class dining, and warm, attentive service. Guests travelling to Moscow should ensure they are aware of official requirements to enter or transit through the country. Flights can be booked through Oman Air’s website, mobile app, or preferred travel agents. For more information, please visit www.omanair.com

Emirates touched down in the Scottish capital for the first time since 2020. Edinburgh is Emirates’ eighth destination in the UK. The daily service will complement the airline’s current A380 daily flight to Glasgow – offering customers 14 weekly flights to/from the country. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “The UK is one of our most important markets, and we’re proud to reinstate our footprint in Scotland – a country that’s loved by visitors from around the world. Scottish customers can look forward to an elevated travel experience onboard, initially with our Boeing 777 ahead of our highly anticipated A350 arrival. With 14 weekly flights to and from the country – passengers can now easily connect to popular long-haul destinations such as Thailand, Australia, and of course, the vibrant city of Dubai.The Emirates Boeing 777 was welcomed by the celebrated Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, captivating passengers with an extraordinary display of musical prowess on the ground. The ample cargo capacity will also help support more industries across Scotland – offering more efficient and reliable transport solutions for businesses across the region to access international markets more quickly to meet demand. We’re excited to be back in Scotland’s capital and look forward to welcoming our passengers back onboard.” Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Emirates back to Edinburgh to resume that direct connection between Scotland’s capital and one of the world’s most sought out destinations in Dubai. Direct connectivity to Dubai is something that will be welcomed by both business and leisure passengers, while the onward connections through the vast Emirates network also opens up a plethora of opportunities for …

Oman Air and Qantas have taken their partnership to new heights with the launch of a new and exciting loyalty programme offering. Sindbad members will soon be able to redeem their Miles on flights with Qantas, which operates an extensive network including Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, with Qantas members able to access the same benefits on Oman Air’s network. The airlines, who have an existing interline partnership, will add more attractive benefits, such as Mile-earning opportunities, as Oman Air prepares to join the oneworld alliance in 2025. Oman Air CEO, Con Korfiatis said, “Our partnership with Qantas reinforces our commitment to bring even greater value and rewarding experiences to our loyalty members. This collaboration not only enhances the travel journey by offering more ways for members to redeem their hard-earned Miles, but also plays a key role in attracting Qantas’ huge membership-base to come and experience Oman. As we look towards our highly anticipated oneworld membership next year, we look forward to providing more rewards and seamless travel across all member airlines.” Qantas Loyalty CEO Andrew Glance, added, “We know how much our members love to use their points to book international reward seats, with record numbers redeemed in the last twelve months. Frequent Flyers also tell us that exploring new destinations is high on their priority list, so this partnership will be welcome news for members eyeing their next overseas adventure. Oman Air is an impressive airline with an expansive network, a modern fleet, and a premium offering that rivals any international carrier.” With an ever-growing range of partners, Sindbad, Oman Air’s award-winning frequent flyer programme, allows members to spend Miles both in the air and on …

Etihad Airways welcomed the return of its iconic A380 aircraft to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, enhancing the travel experience between the two capitals. The world’s largest passenger aircraft, measuring 73 metres in length and 24 metres in height, the Airbus A380 marks its return to the Paris route with Etihad’s most celebrated inflight features, including The Residence – the world’s only three-room suite in the sky. The upper deck features The Lobby, an exclusive lounge area for First and Business class guests. Designed and manufactured in Europe, with final assembly in Toulouse, the A380 represents a proud achievement of French aerospace engineering and innovation. The aircraft’s return to Paris celebrates this French aviation legacy. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “As a city celebrated for its style and ambiance, Paris continues to be a key destination in our global network. The return of our A380 strengthens the travel offering between Abu Dhabi and Paris, reflecting our commitment to this important route.” “The return of the A380 to Paris and our broader network expansion plans, including increasing to year-round, double-daily frequencies to Milan, Rome, Manchester, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Barcelona, and Madrid, demonstrate our strong growth momentum in Europe. This enhanced capacity reflects the rising demand we’re seeing in France, with more exciting announcements to come before the end of 2024.” The UAE and France share strong bilateral ties across culture, education, and business sectors. A unique cultural bridge connects the two capitals as the only cities in the world to house a Louvre Museum. The route caters to growing demand from leisure travellers and the strong business ties between the two countries, particularly in the …

Emirates has relaunched its daily service between Adelaide and Dubai, flying a Boeing 777-200LR between both cities. The reinstated service offers passengers over 4,200 weekly seats between Dubai and the South Australian capital. The Boeing 777-200LR aircraft offers 302 seats across two cabins, with 38 Business Class seats set in a 2-2-2 configuration, alongside 264 seats in Economy Class. This reinstatement will allow more than 220,400 passengers to travel between Dubai and Adelaide per year, reflecting the airline’s commitment to South Australia and facilitating growing travel demand to and from the region. Emirates’ return will have a significant impact on South Australia’s economy and tourism industry. The tourism expenditure of daily direct non-stop Emirates flights is estimated by the South Australian Tourism Commission to generate more than $62 million per year and create more than 315 full-time equivalent tourism-related jobs for South Australians. Emirates SkyCargo will further strengthen trade links between South Australia and the wider world including key markets across the Middle East, Europe and USA. Each daily flight will offer 14 tonnes of cargo space, totalling 196 tonnes weekly between Dubai and Adelaide. Key anticipated exports range from seafood (fish, mussels), meat products, and fruits and vegetables, to general cargo consisting of pharmaceuticals, machinery parts, retail garments and electronics. The value of freight exports is estimated to be $98 million per year, bringing the total estimated expenditure generated by Emirates’ flights to Adelaide to $160 million. South Australia Premier, Peter Malinauskas, said, “The return of Emirates’ daily service to Adelaide is significant for South Australia. We’re not just welcoming back a world-class airline; we’re re-opening South Australia’s doors to the world, showcasing our beautiful state to over 220,000 potential visitors …