Category Archives: Aviation

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM) has marked the 50th anniversary of the airline’s first passenger flight to Dubai, which arrived on 5th April 1972. The anniversary flight was greeted on arrival at Dubai International Airport by airport representatives and KLM staff, who joined a ceremony to mark the milestone. KLM started services to Dubai on 5th April 1972 with a once-a-week connection via Athens and Dhahran, operating an extended Douglas DC-8 jet aircraft. The flight returned from Dubai on April 6th. At that time, Dubai International airport handled around 500,000 passengers per year (1970 figures) and Schiphol Airport more than 5 million. In 2021, Schiphol welcomed 25.5 million passengers (in 2019 pre-Covid the total was almost 72 million); Dubai International welcomed 29.1 million people in 2021, and 86.4 million in 2019 (pre-Covid). Speaking about the 50th anniversary of KLM’s first flight to Dubai, Simon Scholte, General Manager Middle East, Air France KLM said: “This is a very special occasion marking the amazing milestone of KLM’s first passenger service to Dubai. We have the additional honour of celebrating this anniversary during the UAE’s ‘Year of the 50th’ and at the conclusion of this extraordinary global event, Expo 2020 Dubai. It’s a time to pause briefly and reflect on Dubai’s remarkable progress over the last 50 years and to express our gratitude to Dubai government and the airport authorities for their tremendous support. It’s also a time to look ahead at the strong and growing relationship between Dubai and KLM, and our shared commitment to innovation and sustainability.” Air France KLM offers flights from various cities in the Middle East to the airline’s two hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol, connecting …

Being the largest foreign carrier covering major cities of Iraq, RJ serves five Iraqi cities with multiple flights to/from Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Najaf and Sulaymaniah, with over 30 frequencies per week. Additionally, RJ will offer complimentary hotel accommodation in Amman to transit passengers who are traveling from Iraq via Amman to other worldwide RJ destinations in Europe, USA, Canada, and the Arabian Gulf. Royal Jordanian’s Chief Commercial Officer Karim Makhlouf said: “We are committed to offer our passengers in Iraq the best connectivity with our global network via Amman to over 32 worldwide destinations. To cater for their needs, passengers will receive free visa and hotel accommodation for any connecting flight via Amman exceeding 8 hours.” In line with RJ’s expansion plans in Iraq, the airline and the National Bank of Iraq (NBI) sealed an agreement to introduce the first co-branded credit card in Iraq under RJ’s frequent flyer program “Royal Club”. This co-branded credit card allows its holders the opportunity to earn additional miles on each payment when using the bank’s credit card, whilst exchanging these miles against many rewards that the program offers ranging from flight tickets, upgrade on their travel booking class, extra baggage allowance and many other benefits. Karim Makhlouf said: “In line with its five-year plan, RJ will double its fleet and expand its route network; it is also placing Iraq as a key market in its growth plan. For this end, we are signing different partnerships with Iraqi institutions, among which is our partnership with the National Bank of Iraq. We are delighted to cooperate with NBI and introduce the first co-branded credit card in Iraq.” He added that this partnership will increase Iraqi …

Gulf Air participated in the Formula 1 stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which was held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia from 25-27 March. The national carrier hosted its VIP guests, partners and travel agents at its Paddock Club at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Gulf Air Acting CEO, Captain Waleed Al-Alawi, praised the organization and the quality of performance that he witnessed in the race, adding, “We were pleased to welcome our customers in the Saudi market, which is of special importance to Gulf Air. As the official sponsor of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, which was the inaugural race of the Formula 1 season in 2022, we are pleased with the success of the stc Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah, especially in view of our strong relationship with the Saudi market and our partners in it, and the long historical relations linking the Kingdom of Bahrain with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Congratulations to Saudi Arabia for another successful race, and we wish Formula 1 more success in the future.” At the 2022 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Bahrain, and for the second Formula 1 race in a row, Gulf Air performed a low-emission flypast over the Bahrain International Circuit. Gulf Air is the official sponsor of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix since its historic launch in Bahrain in April 2004 as the first ever Formula 1 race in the Middle East; and has been contributing to the success of this sporting and social event and ensuring its excellence at all levels.  

Emirates is introducing 25 mobile Check-in Ports at Dubai International airport Terminal 3 as part of its commitment to continuously innovate at every customer touchpoint and improve the journey experience. These portable units will be deployed throughout the check-in halls at Dubai Airport Terminal. Agents at the Check-in Ports, which were developed in the UAE, will help check-in customers, weigh the bags, tag them, and will also provide boarding passes. Once tagged, porters will place luggage on a dedicated belt destined for each passengers’ aircraft. Each Check-in Port has a scale attached to it for weighing luggage and Emirates’ agents will be also on hand at each station to provide assistance and answer any queries passengers may have. Passengers with two or less bags checking in at Economy, Business and First Class will be encouraged to use the service, which will help cut down on queues and reduce waiting times during peak hours. Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer, said: “The use of advanced technologies and robots will continue to be introduced in our operational and customer touchpoints. We are committed to continually uplift our services and provide our customers a seamless experience and better journeys. Our latest Check-in Portals are a step in this direction and we are also working on other initiatives that rely on technology and artificial intelligence, to be introduced in the near future at different areas. We are fortunate to work with partners who share the same vision in utilising digital platforms and advanced technologies to improve processes and ultimately, customer experience.” Emirates’ drive for ceaseless innovation and unrivalled customer experience has seen the airline previously launch an integrated biometric path at Dubai International …

Air Arabia announced the resumption of its seasonal flights to Bodrum and Antalya, in Turkey from Sharjah starting July 1, 2022. Schedule to Bodrum, effective July 1, 2022 (all times local):   Flight Departure Time Arrival Time Aircraft Frequency  G9 311 Sharjah 13:00 Bodrum 16:45 Airbus A320 Tue/Fri/Sun G9 312 Bodrum 17:35 Sharjah 23:00 Airbus A320 Tue/Fri/Sun   Schedule to Antalya, effective July 1, 2022 (all times local):   Flight Departure Time Arrival Time Aircraft Frequency  G9 315 Sharjah 08:30 Antalya 11:55 Airbus A320 Wed/Friday G9 316 Antalya 12:35 Sharjah 17:35 Airbus A320 Wed/Friday  G9 315 Sharjah 09:00 Antalya 12:25 Airbus A320 Sunday G9 316 Antalya 13:05 Sharjah 18:05 Airbus A320 Sunday   Bodrum represent the third city while Antalya represents the fourth city that Air Arabia flies to after Istanbul and Trabzon in Turkey. Customers can now book their direct flights between Sharjah and Bodrum or Antalya by visiting Air Arabia’s website, by calling the call center or through travel agencies.

Etihad Airways unveiled its new Airbus A350-1000, registration A6-XWB, on a special inaugural commercial flight from Abu Dhabi to Paris. The aircraft is the first A350 to be operated by a UAE airline, and the first of five A350s set to join Etihad’s fleet over the coming months. The first flight departed Abu Dhabi for Paris Charles de Gaulle at 7.30am with a delegation including diplomatic dignitaries, Etihad and Airbus representatives, media, trade partners and other VIPs. Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, commented: “The Airbus A350 is an absolutely incredible aircraft, and we are proud to introduce it into the Etihad Airways network today. Our teams have worked closely together to craft a product and travel proposition that will ensure every journey with Etihad is a choice well made – both for our guests and for the planet. With highly efficient fuel consumption and CO2 savings, the A350 will support our goals to reduce carbon emissions and deliver an unmatched flight experience for our guests.” Mikail Houari, President, Airbus Africa and Middle East, commented: “Etihad Airways has been a long-standing partner of Airbus in the UAE and we are excited to continue our collaboration. The A350-1000 is setting new standards of air travel, offering unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions. This marks the start of a promising new chapter for the UAE’s aviation sector, led by innovation and a commitment to sustainability. We look forward to many more years of partnership and working together to support Etihad Airways expand its network through our most technologically advanced and efficient aircraft.” The aircraft, named Sustainability50, carries a unique livery in recognition …

Kuwait Airways announced the operation of its scheduled commercial flights to the city of Mykonos in Greece, commencing 6th June 2022, with two flights per week on Mondays and Wednesdays. In this regard, Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Maen Razouqi stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce to its customers the operation of its flights to the city of Mykonos in Greece. The destination of Mykonos is one of the most important and new destinations of Kuwait Airways, selected after extensive and systematic research due to its historic and touristic attractions along with its rich, diverse culture, in addition to its distinction as a suitable destination for spending the summer vacation.” Razouqi added, “The launching of Mykonos destination emanates from within the framework of the Company’s strategy to expand its network to various destinations and locations, especially for the summer season, during which we expect to witness recovery and tremendous demand from passengers, that will significantly encourage tourism and travel around the world and develop it for the benefit of the tourism and hospitality sector. Moreover, Kuwait Airways is relentlessly striving to provide diverse and newer options that meet the requirements and aspirations of its customers to travel.” In the same context, Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Maen Razouqi received the Ambassador of Greece to Kuwait, H.E. Konstantinos Piperigos, in the presence of KAC’s Board Members, Mr. Adel Al-Sane and Mr. Ahmed Al-Ibrahim, where they discussed methods to enhance joint cooperation and bilateral relations between the two countries and seek to develop them in all fields related to the aviation sector. In this regard, Razouqi said, “We are honored by the visit of Ambassador Konstantinos Piperigos to the …

As part of its continuous endeavor to provide distinguished services to its valued customers, Kuwait Airways has announced the launching of the Platinum Card Category, for Oasis Club members, which is the highest level among the Oasis Club cards. In this regard, Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Maen Razouqi stated, “ Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce to its dear customers the launching of its latest services, which is the Platinum Card for Oasis Club Members. This category of cards includes numerous exclusive benefits for its holders, most importantly of which is priority for check-in , arrival of their baggage and extra baggage allowance. Moreover, Platinum Card holders can have access to Kuwait Airways lounges in Kuwait and across all destinations to which the Blue Bird operates and in addition to two accompanying guests, as well as a date change waiver and various different services for its holders.” Razouqi said, “The launch of the Platinum Card emanates as part of Kuwait Airways’ diligent plans to attain the highest levels of excellence in providing services to its valued customers, as the Company renders great attention to evaluating the quality of services, which is in accordance with customer aspirations and meeting their requirements.” Razouqi added, “The services provided by the Oasis Club to Kuwait Airways customers are an important element in contributing to the success of the entire work system of the Blue Bird and distinguishing it from other airlines, where Oasis Card holders can enjoy diverse and exceptional services.” From his part, the Director of Customer Service Department, Mr. Meshal Al-Mutairi said, “We are pleased to launch the Platinum Card for Oasis Club members, which is the highest tier level …

Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi received the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to the State of Kuwait, H.E. Belinda Lewis, accompanied by Mr. Siraj Hatem, Senior Trade Adviser at the Embassy and Mrs. Samantha Kerry, Events Officer, and in the presence of KAC’s Chief Operations Officer, Captain Eisa Al-Haddad and the Director of Training, Captain Ali Al-Marri. The Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi welcomed Ambassador Belinda Lewis at the Kuwait Airways headquarters, emphasizing on the extent of the long history of relations between the State of Kuwait and the United Kingdom. He also referred to the joint cooperation and bilateral relations between the two countries and the methods to develop them in all fields in general, and particularly to the aviation sector. Speaking to the Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Razouqi stated, “Kuwait Airways is proceeding, according to well-thought-out and effective plans in moving forward towards expanding its network of operations around the world, with the launch of new and diverse destinations that suit the preferences of its customers and meet their aspirations. Accordingly, the Company will launch its scheduled flights to Manchester in the United Kingdom from 1st May 2022, with three flights per week on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.” Razouqi stated that Manchester as a destination is of great importance to Kuwait Airways’ customers, pointing out that the selection came after an increased demand for it as a distinct destination for tourists, especially in the summer season, which is expected to witness an unprecedented boom in the tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors. Razouqi explained that Kuwait Airways currently owns a new young fleet, supported by the latest technology that keeps pace with all the …

Oman Air Holidays, the tour operating arm of Oman Air – has launched a digital platform giving locally owned and operated SMEs in travel and tourism sector greater online presence and visibility in front of a broader range of international customers. Helping local SMEs digitize their offer is a commitment Oman Air Holidays has undertaken in recent months to help empower local tour operators, guides, hotels, and other small business and solopreneurs in Oman’s growing leisure and hospitality ecosystem. “Empowering Omani SMEs through digitization initiatives brings them out of the shadows and into the spotlight where they can truly shine as local service and product providers,” said Mundher Yaqoob Al Shaikhani, Senior Manager Oman Air Holidays. “Creating opportunities where SMEs can flourish is a key component of the tourism pillars contained in Oman Vision 2040, and Oman Air Holidays is proud to do its part to help. Our platform is connected to a truly global audience and we know it will give local SMEs a step up in the right direction as we continue our efforts to attract more inbound tourists to Oman.” The new digital platform now connects local SMEs to a larger, growing network of international partners associated with Oman Air Holidays. In 2021, Oman Air Holidays partnered with several international travel operators, including WebBeds (a division of Webjet Limited), to enhance its digital booking experience and to provide more choice, flexibility and convenience to guests in search of innovative custom holiday packages. It also introduced stopover packages offering the flexibility to discover some of the most desirable tourist spots in and around Muscat.