Category Archives: Aviation

Hamad International Airport (HIA) marked the inaugural China Southern Airlines flight CZ8059 from Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), a milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Qatar and China. China Southern Airlines will operate the Doha–Beijing service three times weekly, providing direct access for passengers and cargo across two key international hubs. This development enhances Qatar’s position as a global aviation hub and offers new opportunities for travel trade partners, including tour operators, corporate travel planners, and freight forwarders, to design packages, facilitate international business travel, and streamline logistics. The route supports growth in tourism and commercial exchanges, enabling increased passenger flow between the Middle East and Asia. With the addition of this service, Hamad International Airport continues to expand its network, strengthening Qatar’s role as a gateway for international connectivity and fostering broader economic and cultural ties. The event featured a traditional water salute, ribbon-cutting, and formal welcomes, highlighting the strategic importance of the new route for trade, tourism, and business between the two nations. Senior representatives from China Southern Airlines and HIA attended the ceremony, reinforcing the collaborative effort behind this expansion.

flydubai celebrated the launch of its four-times-weekly service from Dubai to Nairobi, enhancing connectivity between the UAE and Kenya. Sudhir Sreedharan, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations (UAE, GCC, Africa and South Asia) at flydubai, said: “The launch of flights to Nairobi reflects our commitment to enhancing connectivity for passengers from the UAE, Kenya, and beyond. Kenya remains a key market for flydubai, and we are excited to offer convenient and comfortable travel options.” The inaugural flight touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and was welcomed with a water cannon salute and representatives from the Kenya Tourism Board, Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), and Kenya Airports Authority. From 1 October, flydubai also increased flights to Mombasa to daily service, bringing total operations in Kenya to 11 weekly flights. With Nairobi added, flydubai now serves 12 destinations across eight African countries, including Alexandria, Addis Ababa, Cairo, Dar es Salaam, Djibouti, Entebbe, Hargeisa, and Zanzibar. Flights operate from Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB) on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Return Business Class fares start from AED 4,500, while Economy Class Lite fares begin at AED 1,450, offering travellers seamless access to Kenya’s capital, a hub for business, culture, and wildlife tourism. With this fifth direct route to Germany, Royal Jordanian continues to strengthen air connectivity between the Middle East and Europe, offering travellers seamless access and more options to explore Jordan’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Emirates marked a significant milestone with the launch of its iconic Airbus A350 to Oslo bringing its award-winning Premium Economy offering to Scandinavia for the first time. The airline hosted an exclusive celebration at the airport, welcoming invited guests and media for an afternoon that underscored its commitment to delivering exceptional service in the region. The introduction of the A350 service to Oslo marks a new chapter in the airline’s investment to the Norwegian market. Renowned for comfort and service, it features the airline’s newest signature Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class interiors – setting a new standard for passenger excellence across all classes. Since its launch in 2014, Emirates’ daily service between Dubai and Oslo has become preferred choice for both business and leisure travellers connecting Norway to the United Arab Emirates and onward to the airline’s extensive global network. Emirates’ senior executives, including Pierfrancesco Carino, VP Commercial Operations North and West Europe, and Terje Grue, Country Manager Norway attended the event. Also present were Majid Al Matrooshi from the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Norway, Ståle Lien Hansen, Mayor of Ullensaker Municipality, and Dorothy Billett, SVP Terminal Operations at Avinor. Terje Grue said: “We are thrilled to bring the A350 and our Premium Economy product to Norway. This is an important step in strengthening our presence in the market. Travellers from Oslo will now be able to enjoy an entirely new level of comfort, whether flying to Dubai or onwards to our many destinations across Asia, Africa, and Australia.” Making luxury travel more accessible to a wider audience, Premium Economy offers an experience similar to Business Class on many airlines. It has a generous 40-inch seat pitch, 8-inch …

Ethiopian Airlines announced the reinstatement of its flight service to Port Sudan, Sudan, effective 15 October 2025. The airline will operate a daily flight to Port Sudan, with plans to increase frequency to twice daily from 1 November 2025. This move reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to strengthening connectivity across Africa and supporting trade, tourism, and business travel between Sudan and other African destinations. The reinstated route will provide passengers with more convenient travel options, improved scheduling flexibility, and enhanced access to Port Sudan’s economic and cultural hubs. Ethiopian Airlines continues to expand its network across the continent, offering reliable, efficient, and customer-focused air services. Passengers can book flights via the airline’s official website, mobile app, or authorized travel agents, ensuring a seamless travel experience on this key African route. The restored service underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ role in promoting regional mobility and supporting Africa’s growing aviation and tourism sectors.

Etihad Airways has officially launched its new route connecting Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, further strengthening ties between the UAE and Ethiopia. The inaugural flight, which took off last week, marks a major milestone in Etihad’s network expansion and enhances connectivity between the two nations. The new service aims to support tourism, and cultural exchange, providing passengers with a direct link to Ethiopia’s capital, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and growing business opportunities. The route reflects Etihad’s strategy to expand its international footprint and meet rising demand for travel in the region. Passengers can expect modern aircraft, enhanced schedules, and high-quality service, whether travelling for business or leisure. With this addition, Etihad Airways continues to reinforce its position as a leading carrier in regional and international aviation, offering travellers new opportunities for connection and exploration.

Oman Air has set a new benchmark in its journey towards becoming a digital-first organization, achieving a 91% direct channel share in Oman during September. With nearly all flight bookings originating from its hub made directly though Oman Air’s own touchpoints including the website and mobile app, it’s a milestone that sets the airline apart from its global peers. By encouraging customers to book directly, Oman Air can offer a more personalized and seamless booking experience, and the lowest available fares, while reducing distribution costs – creating benefits for both the airline and its guests. As part of a major commercial transformation, the airline has significantly increased direct channel sales across its network from 25% in 2024 to over 65% in 2025. The result highlights the growing appeal of the airline’s online platforms and the success of its enhanced user experience and digital marketing initiatives. During a recent promotional campaign, Oman Air recorded almost 15,000 website visits within a 30-minute period, the highest traffic volume ever recorded by the company. “Reaching 91% direct channel share is more than a technological milestone, it reflects how our guests are embracing a more connected travel experience, and how we as an airline are able to meet that demand,” said Mike Rutter, Oman Air’s Chief Commercial Officer. “While digitalisation is an ongoing journey, less than two years ago Oman Air was well behind its peers, and these results show how far we’ve come in a short time. Our focus now is on building smarter systems and capabilities that enhance efficiency and deliver an even more seamless, connected guest experience across every touchpoint.” Another recent digital milestone for the airline was the launch of Oman Air …

Jazeera Airways has partnered with travel technology provider Amadeus to deploy Amadeus Segment Revenue Management Flex (Amadeus SRM Flex) which connects to Navitaire New Skies via Navitaire Revenue Management Services (RMIS). This solution introduces advanced forecasting, intuitive user interfaces and experience, as well as origin and destination visualization capabilities to unlock new revenue streams and elevate the passenger experience. Paul Carroll, Chief Commercial Officer, Jazeera Airways, commented: “At Jazeera, we are working to redefine the passenger experience through digital innovation. The adoption of Amadeus SRM Flex is a transformative step in this process, empowering us to respond faster to market shifts, optimize our network with precision, and unlock greater value.” Amadeus SRM Flex will see Kuwait-based Jazeera transform from a route-based revenue management approach to a network-focused strategy, aligned with an evolving hub-and-spoke model. The solution can automate routine tasks to boost efficiency and attract new revenue opportunities. With interactive visualizations and advanced data discovery tools, Jazeera can also gain a deeper understanding of traveler preferences, while pattern recognition and real-time data streaming transform raw information into actionable intelligence. Chris Anthony, Vice President, Strategy & Transversal, Amadeus, said: “We are proud to partner with Jazeera Airways as the carrier continues to grow its position in the Middle East. By combining Amadeus’ expertise in revenue optimization with its global technology leadership, Jazeera is well-positioned to enhance competitiveness and achieve sustainable revenue growth.” Founded in 2004, Jazeera Airways is a leading low-cost carrier based in Kuwait, serving over five million passengers across a network of more than 60 destinations in the Middle East, Central and South Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Etihad Airways is strengthening its Southeast Asia network with the addition of Krabi to its Thailand destinations, complementing existing flights to Bangkok and Phuket, celebrating four new routes in one week, including Sumatra (Medan, Indonesia), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). The new route highlights the airline’s commitment to connecting travellers with key leisure and business hubs across the region, while enhancing global connectivity through its Abu Dhabi hub. CEO Antonoaldo Neves said, “By launching four new routes in four countries in one week, we are connecting people, cultures, and economies, while supporting trade and logistics growth across our network. This expansion positions Etihad as a key enabler of regional connectivity and economic exchange.” Krabi marks Etihad’s 11th new destination this year, bringing its global network to 86 destinations, with eight additional routes planned in the next two months. The launches are operated by Etihad’s new Airbus A321LR, offering First Suites, lie-flat Business, and next-generation Economy cabins, combining passenger comfort with operational efficiency. Beyond enhancing travel options, these routes strengthen trade and logistics flows between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, supporting regional supply chains and facilitating cargo movement alongside passenger services. Etihad’s modern fleet enables rapid network expansion, providing scalable capacity to underserved markets while maintaining schedule reliability. With these additions, Etihad continues its trajectory toward 125 destinations by 2030, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s strategic role in global trade and travel.

Turkish Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and revise Codeshare Agreement with a broadened scope. The MoU establishes a framework for enriched cooperation, including an expanded codeshare agreement. In addition to increased connectivity, the two carriers will explore joint initiatives in cargo interline services, aircraft leasing, catering, lounge access, maintenance and ground handling operations. Turkish Airlines and Air Algérie also plan to cooperate on environmental projects, sustainability initiatives, and training programs. The partnership aims to support business growth while fostering cultural, social, and economic exchange between Türkiye and Algeria. Agreements were signed by the Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi and Air Algérie CEO Hamza Benhamouda at Air Algérie’s Headquarters in Algiers with senior executives from both airlines in attendance. Commenting on the agreement, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi stated: “Our continuing partnership with Air Algérie reflects our commitment to long-term, sustainable collaboration. This agreement marks a key step in deepening ties between both airlines. As the airline flying to more countries than any other, we remain committed to expanding cooperation across multiple areas to provide greater benefits and options for our guests. We are confident this partnership will enrich cultural and economic connections between Türkiye and Algeria and drive mutual growth.” Air Algérie SpA CEO Hamza Benhamouda said: “We are honored to welcome the Turkish Airlines delegation to our headquarters in Algiers, as we continue to strengthen the ties between our two airlines and our two coutries. We are very pleased with this new milestone in our strategic partnership with Turkish Airlines. This comprehensive agreement, covering multiple areas of cooperation and the exchange of expertise, will undoubtedly bring mutual benefits to both our companies and to our …

Emirates has unveiled its highly acclaimed Premium Economy Cabin on flights EK372/373 between Dubai and Bangkok, operated by its newly retrofitted A380 aircraft. The latest product introduction reaffirms the airline’s ongoing investment to elevating travel experiences for customers travelling to and from Thailand and beyond. With the deployment of Emirates’ newly retrofitted A380 to Bangkok, the airline extends its Premium Economy experience to over 70 cities globally. Located at the front of the main deck, with 56 seats laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration, the Premium Economy cabin is designed to bridge the gap between Economy and Business Class. The award-winning cabin also has a generous 40-inch seat pitch, 8-inch recline, adjustable headrests, and full leg and footrests delivering enhanced comfort. Each seat is upholstered in luxurious anti-stain cream leather with fold-out woodgrain tables for dining or working. Passengers can enjoy enhanced in-flight entertainment with a 13.3-inch HD screen, Bluetooth pairing and other thoughtful tech touches. Dining is meticulously curated to reflect regional flavours and is served on Royal Doulton China, accompanied by an expanded beverage selection including vintage wines that are available throughout the flight. Bangkok joins Emirates’ expanding global network of Premium Economy destinations, following the cabin’s official launch in 2022. The airline’s retrofit programme is one of the largest known in the industry where 219 A380s and Boeing 777s are slated for full nose to tail refurbish. The airline is on track to offer nearly 2 million Premium Economy seats annually across its network by the end of 2025, doubling to 4 million by 2026. Travellers can enjoy a seamless, end-to-end Premium Economy experience by connecting to popular routes like New York, Lyon and London via Dubai. Premium …