Category Archives: Aviation

flynas in collaboration with Riyadh Airports Company (RAC), launched a new self-bag drop facility at King Khalid International Airport, marking a major step in enhancing passenger convenience and digital services. The automated service, now fully operational at Terminal 1, enables passengers to check in their baggage independently, without staff assistance. The process takes less than 20 seconds per bag, significantly reducing waiting times at check-in counters while ensuring a faster, smoother start to the travel experience. This initiative reflects flynas’ commitment to digital transformation and aligns with RAC’s strategy to deliver innovative solutions that improve airport efficiency and passenger flow. By introducing self-bag drop technology, both partners aim to increase passenger throughput, minimise congestion, and improve overall operational efficiency at the airport. In addition to saving passengers valuable time, the system optimizes terminal space, contributing to a more seamless and modernized airport environment. The move underscores flynas’ role in driving smart travel solutions and RAC’s dedication to positioning Riyadh among the leading digitally advanced airports in the region.

Jazeera Airways will relaunch direct flights to Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, with a twice-weekly service starting 2 October 2025. The new routes expand the airline’s presence in the UAE, complementing its existing service to Dubai, and strengthen connectivity across the Gulf region. The relaunch aims to support trade, tourism, and mobility between Kuwait and the Emirates, offering passengers more convenient options for business and leisure travel. By enhancing regional connectivity, Jazeera Airways reinforces its commitment to providing efficient, value-driven travel solutions while facilitating stronger commercial and cultural ties between the two countries. Passengers can expect seamless travel experiences, with schedules designed to accommodate both short business trips and extended leisure stays. The airline’s renewed focus on the UAE market underscores its strategy to enhance regional networks and deliver high-quality services tailored to customer needs. With these new routes, Jazeera Airways positions itself as a key player in Gulf aviation, fostering closer connections and supporting the region’s growing demand for reliable air travel.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi announced the launch of non-stop flights connecting Abu Dhabi with Assiut in Egypt, starting 4 November 2025. The new service will operate twice weekly, every Tuesday and Friday, offering passengers a convenient and affordable option between Zayed International Airport and Assiut International Airport. With the addition of Assiut, the airline now connects Abu Dhabi to three Egyptian cities- Cairo, Alexandria, and Assiut, strengthening ties and boosting connectivity between the UAE and Egypt. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are pleased to launch our newest service to Assiut, extending our reach into Upper Egypt directly from the UAE capital. This addition strengthens our network between the UAE and Egypt, offering customers more convenient and affordable options to travel between the two countries.” Air Arabia Abu Dhabi currently operates a modern fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft, serving more than 30 destinations from Abu Dhabi. The airline is set to further expand its fleet and routes before the end of the year, enhancing connectivity and travel options. Passengers can enjoy value-added services such as free in-flight streaming with SkyTime, affordable catering through SkyCafe, and benefits from Air Rewards, the airline’s loyalty program. Tickets are available via Air Arabia’s website, call centre, and travel agencies.

flyadeal has been recognised for eight consecutive months for its exceptional punctuality, according to CIRIUM’s August 2025 report. The airline recorded an On-Time Performance (OTP) of 87.84%, reaffirming its commitment to reliability and timely operations. This consistent performance places flyadeal among the region’s most punctual carriers, reflecting its focus on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The airline’s dedication to maintaining high standards of service has made it a preferred choice for travellers seeking reliability across its growing network. flyadeal emphasised that maintaining punctuality is a core part of its strategy, reinforcing trust and confidence among passengers while supporting the Kingdom’s broader aviation ambitions. The achievement highlights the airline’s operational excellence and positions it as a key player in the UAE and Middle East aviation sector.

This marks the airline’s third route connecting the Syrian capital with the Kingdom. The airline will operate three weekly flights between King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and Damascus International Airport, enhancing air connectivity between the two countries. This initiative supports flynas’ broader expansion strategy while aligning with national objectives in aviation and tourism. The move forms part of the airline’s “We Connect the World to the Kingdom” growth plan and complements Saudi Arabia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy, which aims to link the Kingdom with 250 international destinations, accommodate 330 million passengers, and host 150 million tourists annually by 2030. It also supports the Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP) to facilitate access to the Two Holy Mosques. Since resuming flights to Damascus in June, flynas has steadily increased its presence in Syria, now operating 17 weekly flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, including daily services from Riyadh and Jeddah.

Air Canada announced new destinations and expanded services for travellers across Europe and Asia heading to Canada. Beginning next year, the airline will launch new non-stop routes from Catania in Sicily and Palma de Mallorca to Montréal, a key trans-Atlantic hub for the airline. From Budapest, Air Canada will re-establish direct flights to Toronto, alongside increased capacity to Prague. In addition, Air Canada’s popular Vancouver–Bangkok service will move from seasonal to year-round and direct flights from Shanghai to Toronto will also return, offering greater choice to travellers from Asia. “Air Canada’s continued international expansion reflects our bold ambitions and leverages our network reach and scale to capitalize on global travel demand driven by leisure travel trends, growing demand for services to Asia, and cargo development opportunities. Next summer, we will be launching exciting, new services to Montréal from Sicily and Mallorca, offering European customers direct access to one of Canada’s most dynamic cities and onward connections across North America. Air Canada is the first carrier to provide scheduled service from Sicily and Mallorca to Canada,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada. “From Budapest, we are further strengthening our global hub in Toronto with the return of this celebrated international route, while increasing services from Prague. Combined with year- round flights between Vancouver and Bangkok, these strategic additions reinforce Air Canada’s global network as one of the most wide-reaching from North America, connecting our customers in Europe and beyond directly to Canada and onwards to all six inhabited continents.” All flights are available for sale at aircanada.com, through Air Canada Contact Centres and via travel agents.

Between 30 June and 31 August 2025, SalamAir operated 962 flights between Muscat, Sohar, and Salalah, compared to 658 flights in 2024, marking a 46% increase year-on-year. Seat capacity also expanded by37%, rising to192,540 seats in 2025. Almost 70% of passengers were Omani citizens, highlighting the popularity of Salalah as a national destination during Khareef. SalamAir supported this surge by introducing a special 48 OMR round-trip fare exclusively for Omanis, making travel more affordable and accessible for families and individuals eager to experience Dhofar’s unique beauty during the season. SalamAir announced record results during the Khareef 2025 season in Salalah, celebrating a successful summer that reflects the growing strength of domestic tourism, the airline’s expanding role in connectivity, and its contribution to Oman’s wider economic diversification goals. Adrian Hamilton-Manns, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, said: “Khareef 2025 has been a remarkable success story for SalamAir and for the Sultanate. These results are proof of the airline’s commitment to connecting Oman affordably, while supporting the growth of Salalah as one of the region’s most celebrated destinations. We are proud to play our part in bringing more people to Dhofar to enjoy its natural wonders, traditions, and hospitality. This season’s achievements reflect not only SalamAir’s growth but also the incredible appeal of Salalah during Khareef.” The achievements of Khareef 2025 also demonstrate the untapped potential of Oman’s domestic travel market. SalamAir continues to strengthen its role as a leading low-cost carrier in the region, bringing visitors to the Sultanate, supporting local tourism, and opening new opportunities for Omanis. Looking ahead, the airline remains committed to further expansion and to the long-term development of Salalah as an operational base, ensuring that Dhofar benefits from year-round …

flydubai announced a new interline agreement with TAROM expanding seamless travel options for passengers between the UAE, Romania, and key European destinations. The partnership will enable flydubai customers to connect via Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) to 15 destinations on TAROM’s network, including Athens, Amsterdam, Brussels, Cluj-Napoca, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Paris. Ramesh Anantharaman, Divisional Senior Vice President of Revenue Management and Business Effectiveness at flydubai, said the collaboration strengthens connectivity across Eastern and Central Europe, supporting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. “This agreement allows customers to enjoy simplified itineraries, single-ticket bookings, and through check-in for baggage to their final destination,” he added. TAROM’s General Manager, Costin Iordache, said the partnership is a natural step in enhancing regional and international connectivity, offering safe and convenient travel choices. flydubai has operated flights to Bucharest since 2012 and currently runs double daily services. The airline will expand further in Romania with new flights to Iași starting 19 September 2025. flydubai’s network spans more than 135 destinations across 57 countries.

Oman Air is highlighting its digital-first approach at the flagship technology exhibition. The airline is using the platform to demonstrate its role as a modern, innovative carrier and share insights on the transformative impact of digitalisation in aviation. During the conference, Oman Air’s Commercial and Digital teams discussed the airline’s digital journey, which has enhanced guest experiences, streamlined ancillary services, and enabled smarter retailing. Chief Commercial Officer Mike Rutter emphasised that these initiatives reflect Oman Air’s strategy to make travel simpler, smarter, and more rewarding, while supporting the growth of Oman’s digital ecosystem. Key digital initiatives include the launch of a new online booking platform, Oman Air Holidays, revamped website and mobile app, flexible fare bundles, and the revitalization of the Sindbad loyalty programme. Direct sales have risen to over 70%, reducing reliance on third-party channels. The airline is also using AI to improve customer service and booking processes. COMEX 2025 runs until 11 September at the Oman Conference and Exhibition Centre, where visitors can explore Oman Air’s innovative digital solutions at its dedicated booth.

Emirates will deploy its Airbus A350 to Hangzhou, China on its daily service from 26 October 2025. Coming just three months after its inaugural service, the deployment reinforces Emirates’ steadfast commitment to providing an outstanding experience for travellers to and from its newest destination in Chinese mainland. The Emirates A350 will operate on flight EK310 which departs from Dubai International Airport at 04:15hrs and arrives in Hangzhou at 16:00hrs; the return flight, EK311, departs Hangzhou at 00:10hrs, landing in Dubai at 06:10hrs.* Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said, “Over the last year we have made significant investments in our operations to Chinese mainland, creating meaningful impact through the launch of brand-new destinations and providing an elevated in-flight experience with our latest products. Introducing the A350 to Hangzhou is the natural next step, as we continue to bring the latest and greatest that Emirates has to offer to China’s skies. The A350 is an exciting addition to our fleet mix, adding a new dynamic to our existing operations in China. We look forward to welcoming passengers from Hangzhou on the new Emirates A350 soon.” The A350 is the first new aircraft model to join the Emirates fleet since 2008, complementing the existing line-up of Boeing 777s and A380s, both of which serve Chinese mainland. Kitted out in the airline’s latest signature interiors, the A350 features sleek and spacious cabins, with extra high ceilings and wider aisles in all classes. Designed around customer comfort, the aircraft features seamless technology touchpoints and ground-breaking inflight entertainment to elevate the passenger experience. The deployment of the A350 also introduces Premium Economy to Hangzhou, expanding Emirates premium offering to and from the city. …