Category Archives: Aviation

To establish direct air connectivity with one of the world’s popular destinations, Oman’s SalamAir announced the introduction of a direct flight between Muscat and Kuala Lumpur with two flights per week beginning on July 3, 2023. Flights from Muscat to Kuala Lumpur are scheduled for Monday and Friday. The route serves both sides’ high demand for leisure and business tourism. Kuala Lumpur, SalamAir’s first destination in Malaysia, marks the airline’s further expansion into Southeast Asia. For people living in Oman and those wanting to take connecting flights, it’s a convenient non-stop flight to Southeast Asian country for leisure, shopping, or business purposes. Captain Mohamed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir, said, “The new service marks another milestone in our network expansion strategy. We are delighted to launch flights between Muscat and Kuala Lumpur, providing our customers with a perfect value-for-money product that allows them to be flexible, save on airfare with our competitive pricing, and add services they prefer. The flights will boost tourism, economic relations, business opportunities, and student movements between Oman and Malaysia and serve the overall Oman 2040 vision of supporting the inbound tourism sector as one of the main contributors to the national GDP of the Sultanate of Oman.  We are committed to connecting more destinations along new sectors to establish a strong pan-international presence.” The journey between Muscat and Kuala Lumpur will take about seven hours. With the high demand for unique tourist destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, SalamAir looks forward to welcoming customers onboard these new flights soon. Air tickets for this route and other flights of SalamAir can be purchased on the official website of the airline www.salamair.com, mobile app, call center, as well as …

Following the recently expanded air services agreement between the UAE and Canada, Etihad Airways has announced it will increase flights to Toronto. On 30 May, Etihad Airways will introduce an additional weekly flight between Abu Dhabi and Toronto, on top of its current six-per-week flight schedule, to offer travellers a daily connection. “Etihad is thrilled to begin flying daily between Abu Dhabi and Toronto, which has been one of our busiest routes in 2023 as a result of the rapid recovery and continued growth in travel demand between the UAE and Canada,” said Arik De, Chief Revenue Officer at Etihad Airways. “Our daily service will provide business and leisure travellers, the Canadian diaspora and the large body of students from the UAE enrolled in Canada’s world-class universities with a convenient flight option every day of the week. “We thank the government and civil aviation authorities for laying the groundwork for us to strengthen the air links between our two countries, which are essential for tourism, trade and bilateral relations.” Etihad will this year mark 18 years since it began serving Toronto in October 2005.  The carrier has an interline agreement with WestJet and a codeshare with Air Canada which allow guests to benefit from seamless connectivity in Toronto to more than 15 destinations. Dynamic and cosmopolitan, Toronto is the largest city in Canada and a must-visit destination for its diverse culture, stunning architecture and exciting food scene. Visitors can explore its iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower – one of more than 80 skyscrapers in the city – along with the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Abu Dhabi is a world-class tourism destination and offers …

SAUDIA announced that it will significantly increase the number of flights to major global destinations. This comes as part of its objectives to bring the world to the Kingdom and strengthen the airlines’ international presence. The expansion offers convenient connections and more flexibilities for SAUDIA’s guests. SAUDIA CEO, Captain Ibrahim Koshy commented on the international network expansion: “We are pleased to offer our guests more flights to Europe’s most important cities. The increase in frequency also means greater connectivity to our growing network and the opportunity to welcome more visitors to the Kingdom.” By mid-year, SAUDIA will be operating 56 weekly services internationally to and from 14 destinations. The uplift in capacity provides SAUDIA guests with even more access globally, as well as bolstering trade and business opportunities.   Bangkok – From 26 March, SAUDIA will be introducing 3 additional flights to Bangkok from Jeddah. As a result, SAUDIA will be serving Bangkok a total of 10 flights a week with daily services from Jeddah and 3 flights per week from Riyadh. Seoul – From 26 March, SAUDIA will be introducing non-stop flights to Seoul from both Jeddah and Riyadh. As a result, SAUDIA will be connecting Seoul with 4 flights a week with 2 non-stop flights a week from Jeddah and 2 non-stop flights a week from Riyadh. Guangzhou – From 26 March, SAUDIA will be serving Guangzhou from Jeddah three times a week. The company will also introduce two new weekly flights from Riyadh. Kuala Lumpur – From 26 March, SAUDIA will be adding three services a week between Riyadh and Kuala Lumpur. The extra services will boost SAUDIA’s presence at Kuala Lumpur to 24 flights per week, …

Adding another exclusive partnership to its growing portfolio, Oman Air has signed a new agreement that allows members of its frequent flyer programme, Sindbad, to use their Miles to shop at Muscat Duty Free’s online store. With over a thousand lifestyle products ranging from cutting-edge gadgets to confectionary, luxury fragrances and accessories, and easy pick-up on the way through Muscat International Airport, it’s the perfect excuse for members to treat themselves or even gift someone they love. Mundher Al Shaikhani, Acting Vice President – Marketing, at Oman Air, said, “We’re thrilled to have partnerships with some of the best and most popular lifestyle brands, providing our loyal members with opportunities to use their hard-earned Miles in whole new ways. As Sindbad continues to evolve, we are finding new and unique ways to make their travel more rewarding every time they fly.” Renat Rozpravka, Chief Executive Officer of Muscat Duty Free, added, “We seek to further enhance the world-class offering in Oman, focusing on delivering high-quality products and an enjoyable shopping experience for passengers travelling through Muscat International Airport. We are thrilled to offer this new benefit to our valued members and look forward to seeing how they take advantage of it.” The new agreement means members can pay with their Sindbad Miles when shopping at the Muscat Duty Free online store and pick up their order when departing from or arriving at Muscat International Airport. Alternatively, they can nominate another person to collect it on their behalf. Meanwhile, members can also earn Miles when shopping in-store, benefiting from a rate of 1 Sindbad Mile per 1 Omani Rial spent at Departures, and 2 Sindbad Miles per 1 Omani Rial spent …

Within the framework of Kuwait Airways’ continuous endeavours to provide the best services and solutions to its valued customers, the company announced the launching of the Electronic Boarding Passes, as a new service enabling customers to check-in and complete their travel procedures on Kuwait Airways’ website or the electronic application for more than 22 selected stations, for those arriving to Kuwait. Speaking on the launch of this new service, the Chairman of Kuwait Airways, Captain Ali Al-Dukhan stated, “Kuwait Airways is committed to its tireless efforts to introduce the latest services that will enable passengers to save time and facilitate the completion of their travel procedures. The launch of the Electronic Boarding Pass is part of the Blue Bird’s efforts to implement its strategic objectives towards digital transformation, which is in line with the best standards and solutions in the aviation sector, and to provide distinguished services for passengers travelling on the National Carrier of the State of Kuwait. This is in addition to the recent launch of various other new services during the National Holidays, such as the Home Check-in Service and the Limousine Service for Royal and First Class passengers”. Al-Dukhan added, “Customers can check-in through the Kuwait Airways website or the electronic application, select their preferred seat, complete their reservation procedures, and then obtain the barcode for their flight. Passengers without any luggage can proceed directly to the passport control, show the barcode and head to the boarding gate, without the requirements of proceeding to the check-in counter to check their baggage allowance.” Al-Dukhan continued by saying, “As for passengers carrying baggage, they can complete their travel procedures either through the self-baggage weighing device according to its …

The world’s leading aerospace event, Dubai Airshow has grown immensely in significance and influence over the years, highlighted by the success of the November 2021 edition, which saw more than USD 74 billion worth of deals announced during the mega event. It welcomed more than 104,000 attendees and witnessed a 50% increase in trade visitors, which included global senior executives from 148 countries. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence, the 18th edition of Dubai Airshow is set to take place from 13-17 November 2023 at Dubai World Central (DWC), Dubai Airshow Site. The event is supported by key aviation industry stakeholders including Dubai Airports, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), the UAE Ministry of Defence, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP) and the UAE Space Agency. With 2023 announced by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the ‘Year of Sustainability’, the latest edition will focus on showcasing the sustainability initiatives and technologies from government entities and the wider aerospace industry, further reinforcing the UAE’s unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable circularity ahead of COP28 summit in Dubai. Across the country, industry players continue to invest in new projects and initiatives such as Emirates operating its first demo flight powered with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Dubai Airports implementing efficiencies and innovative solutions to limit its environmental impact. Significant growth is also expected within aerial mobility, with Dubai pledging to launch flying taxis in 2026, advancements in electric and hybrid eVTOL’s and the DCAA publishing the world’s first national regulations related to vertiports. His Highness Sheikh …

Following the breakthrough expanded air transport agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Canada, Emirates is stepping up its frequency with two additional flights per week between Dubai and Toronto. From 20 April, daily flights will operate on the busy route to serve huge demand for passenger services. The move comes as bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Canada have enhanced significantly, with both countries set to reap vast economic benefits across a multitude of sectors and supply chains. Hailing the development as a crucial one for the airline, Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: Emirates welcomes the expansion of the air services agreement between the UAE and Canada and we would firstly like to thank all stakeholders and authorities who were involved in this pivotal agreement that will provide a boost to the aviation and tourism sectors in both countries. We have been serving customers between Toronto and Dubai since 2007, and although the double-decker A380 aircraft has been operating the route since 2009, demand arising from leisure and corporate travellers, diaspora and students has consistently outstripped the allocated capacity. This enhanced agreement represents a turning point for us in our strategy to serve our customers better, by offering more choice and flexibility, and meet pent up demand across our growing network. “Business ties between Canada and the UAE have grown significantly over the years and the expanded air services will help to further nurture business and trade.  The expansion of air services is also an affirmation of the growing importance of the UAE to Canada’s global connectivity, which we can support through our global network of more than 130 destinations. Together with the relevant authorities, …

KlasJet and an ACMI leasing service provider, recently introduced the Boeing BBJ2 to the Middle East market and now is continuing its expansion in the region. The company has announced plans to operate a luxurious Boeing 737 from a base in Dubai, catering to the growing demand for exclusive private and corporate air travel in the area. With the Middle East being one of the fastest-growing business aviation markets in the world, KlasJet has identified a potential niche in the region. “The Middle East market was dominated by smaller business jets and 2-class configuration aircraft,” explains Lukas Petrauskas, CCO at KlasJet. “However, there was a lack of options for larger groups or delegations. Therefore, we are confident that our luxury Boeing 737 will be an ideal choice for extended families, sports teams, business travellers, and political delegations who require a comfortable and convenient mode of travel for their group.” The Boeing 737, exclusively designed by KlasJet, features 68 spacious and comfortable business-class seats, ensuring a luxurious and high-quality experience for all passengers onboard. The aircraft is meticulously crafted with attention to detail, offering subtle yet luxurious touches throughout the cabin to enhance the travel experience. Aside from a unique aircraft interior layout, KlasJet also offers exceptional passenger care. “We believe in delivering an all-encompassing experience that surpasses our clients’ expectations. We pay attention to even the smallest details, both inside and outside the private jet, to create a personalised and exceptional travel experience. Our crew members are well-trained in various fields such as human psychology, fine dining, sommelier courses, protocol-related behaviour, professional presentation, and culture-specific nuances, including tailored cabin crew uniforms that adhere to specific cultural norms,” he explains. In …

Emirates has now restored its full Japanese network with the resumption of its passenger services to Tokyo-Haneda on 2 April 2023, further building on the airline’s continued expansion in the Southeast Asia region. Operated by one of Emirates’ latest Boeing 777 “Game Changer” aircraft, flight EK312 departed from Dubai on 2 April at 7:50hrs, and arrived in Haneda at 22:35hrs. The return flight EK313 departed from Haneda on 3 April at 00:05hrs and arrived in Dubai at 06:20hrs. All times are local time. Satish Sethi, Emirates’ Country Manager in Japan, said: “We’re very excited for the continued development of our Japanese network and are especially thankful to the local authorities and our partners for their support and for working with us on providing seamless global connectivity for Japanese travelers.  We’ve been present in the market for more than 20 years and are thoroughly pleased to finally return to Tokyo-Haneda, as we look forward to supporting the increasing demand for international travel. The night flight from Haneda offers valuable connectivity for travellers to access Emirates’ points beyond Dubai, in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East regions.” In addition to Tokyo-Haneda, Emirates also operates daily services to Tokyo-Narita and Osaka. From these points, the airline offers passengers access to 24 additional domestic cities in Japan through its codeshare partnership with Japan Airlines. Japanese travellers can also benefit seamless access to more than 130 destinations across 6 continents via Dubai, including popular destinations such as Italy, Spain, US, France and UK. Tickets can be booked on www.emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via travel agents. Travellers are also encouraged to check the latest entry requirements. From First Class through to the Business and Economy …

Emirates and United have activated their codeshare partnership, allowing Emirates customers to enjoy easier access to an expanded choice of U.S. destinations. Starting today, Emirates customers will be able to fly to three of the nation’s biggest business hubs – Chicago, Houston or San Francisco – and connect easily to an expansive network of domestic U.S. points on flights operated by United. Tickets are available to purchase from today on emirates.com as well as through trade channels including travel agencies. With the launch of the partnership, Emirates customers heading to the U.S., can now look forward to access to more than 150 U.S. cities in the United network, via the three gateways. Similarly, Emirates customers in the U.S. planning trips to Dubai and beyond have a myriad of choices and can utilise United’s services to easily connect to Emirates operated flights bound for Dubai, via Chicago, Houston or San Francisco. The world just got bigger for U.S. travelers journeying to Emirates’ extensive network beyond Dubai, including many unique destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. On the flights, passengers can enjoy Emirates’ award-winning services and a host of convenient travel benefits afforded by the agreement. Travellers with itineraries on Emirates’ codeshare flights can plan their entire trip on a single-ticket and take advantage of the airline’s baggage allowance, in addition to convenient bag check-through to the final destination. Emirates is also enabling its Skywards members to earn and redeem miles on all flights across United’s worldwide network. The partnership unlocks a host of popular destinations accessible from Emirates gateways such as Atlanta, Austin, Denver, Minneapolis and Phoenix. Emirates passengers planning trips to destinations such as …