Tag Archives: airport

 Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways are taking a significant step towards creating a more supportive travel experience with the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and onboard Etihad Airways flights. This initiative underscores both organisations’ commitment to supporting all passengers, particularly those with non-visible disabilities. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, a globally recognised symbol for non-visible disabilities, is now available at Zayed International Airport (AUH). This programme provides a discreet way for passengers with conditions like autism, chronic pain, or anxiety to signal to staff that they may require additional assistance or compassion. Passengers can pick up their complimentary Sunflower lanyards at the two dedicated Special Assistance desks located in the pre-check-in area of AUH, allowing them to discreetly communicate their needs and fostering a more supportive environment for all. “At Abu Dhabi Airports, we are dedicated to providing a seamless and inclusive travel experience for every passenger,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports. “The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme is a natural extension of this commitment, empowering passengers with non-visible disabilities to discreetly communicate their needs and receive the support they deserve throughout their journey at Zayed International Airport. It’s about recognising that the kindest gestures are the ones that acknowledge unseen challenges. This means our staff are now even better equipped to assist passengers who may require a little extra time, understanding, or assistance, ensuring a smoother and more positive experience for everyone.” To ensure the programme’s success, both AUH and Etihad Airways have implemented comprehensive staff training. Frontline teams from the airport, its stakeholders and business partners have undergone specialised training to better understand the …

Red Sea Global (RSG) celebrated the first flight to its Red Sea International Airport (RSI), which touched down on the new runway. Departing from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh each Thursday and Saturday, The SAUDIA flight, which takes under two hours, marks the start of a new twice-weekly service. The flights return to Riyadh later the same day. “We promised to make The Red Sea a place where people from all around the world would come to experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality, and nature. Now, with the first flight touching down at Red Sea International Airport, and our first resorts receiving bookings, Saudi Arabia’s position on the global tourism map is all but secured,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. The flights depart RUH each Thursday at 10.50am, before departing again to the Kingdom’s capital from RSI at 13:35pm. A second service departs RUH every Saturday at 12.50pm, with the return flight for RUH departing at 15:35pm. Positioned within an eight-hour flight from 85 percent of the world’s population, RSI will grow to welcome international flights from next year as additional phase one resorts open their doors. Red Sea International Airport is operated by daa International, which has supported Red Sea Global with design validation and commissioning of RSI since 2020. With the arrival of RSI’s first commercial flight, daa International’s operational responsibility commences.

Riyadh Airports Company, which manages and operates King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has launched an updated version of the interactive chat service via “WhatsApp” and Twitter. The new version is cutting-edge technology, empowered with artificial intelligence technology. The latest version includes new features to provide a unique and innovative experience, such as replacing long text messages and lists with a set of options and drop-down menus, which allow the user to click on the menu and choose the service to get the service rapidly and effortlessly. Another big milestone is providing flight notifications in sign language for the deaf and dumb, as well as information on the airport’s services, making KKIA the first airport in the world to provide such a feature. In this context, Eng. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Maghlouth, CEO of Riyadh Airports, said: “By launching the updated version of the interactive service, we aim to enhance passengers’ experiences through King Khalid International Airport. As we apply artificial intelligence to create an engaging experience through social channels, as well as providing an unparalleled travel experience for people with disabilities.” Travelers and airport visitors will be able to easily inquire about flights, service rates, and other information using the new feature, which is available for “IOS” and “Android” users. This service will also contribute to the diversification of communication channels and the achievement of new levels of passenger satisfaction. It’s worth mentioning that Riyadh Airports unveiled several initiatives recently as part of its strategic digital transformation plan, including the newly introduced advanced digital platform “OFOQ” to manage operations at KKIA.

At a recent interview with Tracy Lanza Group Head of Global Brand Development at The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) shared, “The Red Sea International Airport (RSI) will be operational in 2023, providing a luxury transportation experience where sustainability is considered in every detail. The eco-friendly airport design focuses on using shaded areas and natural ventilation to minimize the reliance on air conditioning. The entire infrastructure of the destination, including the airport and wider transport network, will be powered by 100% renewable energy. This includes our boats and seaplanes.” The Red Sea Project is a luxury regenerative tourism destination situated on Saudi Arabia’s west coast. It spans over 28,000km2 of pristine lands and waters and includes a vast archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands. The project is being developed by The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), a closed joint-stock company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia. It is located 500km north of Jeddah, between the Saudi towns of Al Wajh and Umluj. At the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, 250 million people will be within three hours flying time, and an estimated eight hours flying time for 80% of the world’s population.

According to sources the Bahrain airport expansion work is to start next month (October). The project will boost passenger capacity to 14 million with an estimated cost of $1.1 billion. The foundation work includes the transfer of Bahrain Aviation Fuelling Company facilities, the building of a main access security gate, the setting up of a new fire station, and the establishment of new staff car parks. It is one of the biggest projects ever held under the Gulf Development Fund. More details to be released soon.