Category Archives: Aviation

Emirates touched down in the Scottish capital for the first time since 2020. Edinburgh is Emirates’ eighth destination in the UK. The daily service will complement the airline’s current A380 daily flight to Glasgow – offering customers 14 weekly flights to/from the country. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “The UK is one of our most important markets, and we’re proud to reinstate our footprint in Scotland – a country that’s loved by visitors from around the world. Scottish customers can look forward to an elevated travel experience onboard, initially with our Boeing 777 ahead of our highly anticipated A350 arrival. With 14 weekly flights to and from the country – passengers can now easily connect to popular long-haul destinations such as Thailand, Australia, and of course, the vibrant city of Dubai.The Emirates Boeing 777 was welcomed by the celebrated Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, captivating passengers with an extraordinary display of musical prowess on the ground. The ample cargo capacity will also help support more industries across Scotland – offering more efficient and reliable transport solutions for businesses across the region to access international markets more quickly to meet demand. We’re excited to be back in Scotland’s capital and look forward to welcoming our passengers back onboard.” Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Emirates back to Edinburgh to resume that direct connection between Scotland’s capital and one of the world’s most sought out destinations in Dubai. Direct connectivity to Dubai is something that will be welcomed by both business and leisure passengers, while the onward connections through the vast Emirates network also opens up a plethora of opportunities for …

Oman Air and Qantas have taken their partnership to new heights with the launch of a new and exciting loyalty programme offering. Sindbad members will soon be able to redeem their Miles on flights with Qantas, which operates an extensive network including Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, with Qantas members able to access the same benefits on Oman Air’s network. The airlines, who have an existing interline partnership, will add more attractive benefits, such as Mile-earning opportunities, as Oman Air prepares to join the oneworld alliance in 2025. Oman Air CEO, Con Korfiatis said, “Our partnership with Qantas reinforces our commitment to bring even greater value and rewarding experiences to our loyalty members. This collaboration not only enhances the travel journey by offering more ways for members to redeem their hard-earned Miles, but also plays a key role in attracting Qantas’ huge membership-base to come and experience Oman. As we look towards our highly anticipated oneworld membership next year, we look forward to providing more rewards and seamless travel across all member airlines.” Qantas Loyalty CEO Andrew Glance, added, “We know how much our members love to use their points to book international reward seats, with record numbers redeemed in the last twelve months. Frequent Flyers also tell us that exploring new destinations is high on their priority list, so this partnership will be welcome news for members eyeing their next overseas adventure. Oman Air is an impressive airline with an expansive network, a modern fleet, and a premium offering that rivals any international carrier.” With an ever-growing range of partners, Sindbad, Oman Air’s award-winning frequent flyer programme, allows members to spend Miles both in the air and on …

Etihad Airways welcomed the return of its iconic A380 aircraft to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, enhancing the travel experience between the two capitals. The world’s largest passenger aircraft, measuring 73 metres in length and 24 metres in height, the Airbus A380 marks its return to the Paris route with Etihad’s most celebrated inflight features, including The Residence – the world’s only three-room suite in the sky. The upper deck features The Lobby, an exclusive lounge area for First and Business class guests. Designed and manufactured in Europe, with final assembly in Toulouse, the A380 represents a proud achievement of French aerospace engineering and innovation. The aircraft’s return to Paris celebrates this French aviation legacy. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “As a city celebrated for its style and ambiance, Paris continues to be a key destination in our global network. The return of our A380 strengthens the travel offering between Abu Dhabi and Paris, reflecting our commitment to this important route.” “The return of the A380 to Paris and our broader network expansion plans, including increasing to year-round, double-daily frequencies to Milan, Rome, Manchester, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Barcelona, and Madrid, demonstrate our strong growth momentum in Europe. This enhanced capacity reflects the rising demand we’re seeing in France, with more exciting announcements to come before the end of 2024.” The UAE and France share strong bilateral ties across culture, education, and business sectors. A unique cultural bridge connects the two capitals as the only cities in the world to house a Louvre Museum. The route caters to growing demand from leisure travellers and the strong business ties between the two countries, particularly in the …

Emirates has relaunched its daily service between Adelaide and Dubai, flying a Boeing 777-200LR between both cities. The reinstated service offers passengers over 4,200 weekly seats between Dubai and the South Australian capital. The Boeing 777-200LR aircraft offers 302 seats across two cabins, with 38 Business Class seats set in a 2-2-2 configuration, alongside 264 seats in Economy Class. This reinstatement will allow more than 220,400 passengers to travel between Dubai and Adelaide per year, reflecting the airline’s commitment to South Australia and facilitating growing travel demand to and from the region. Emirates’ return will have a significant impact on South Australia’s economy and tourism industry. The tourism expenditure of daily direct non-stop Emirates flights is estimated by the South Australian Tourism Commission to generate more than $62 million per year and create more than 315 full-time equivalent tourism-related jobs for South Australians. Emirates SkyCargo will further strengthen trade links between South Australia and the wider world including key markets across the Middle East, Europe and USA. Each daily flight will offer 14 tonnes of cargo space, totalling 196 tonnes weekly between Dubai and Adelaide. Key anticipated exports range from seafood (fish, mussels), meat products, and fruits and vegetables, to general cargo consisting of pharmaceuticals, machinery parts, retail garments and electronics. The value of freight exports is estimated to be $98 million per year, bringing the total estimated expenditure generated by Emirates’ flights to Adelaide to $160 million. South Australia Premier, Peter Malinauskas, said, “The return of Emirates’ daily service to Adelaide is significant for South Australia. We’re not just welcoming back a world-class airline; we’re re-opening South Australia’s doors to the world, showcasing our beautiful state to over 220,000 potential visitors …

Oman Air has made its most significant new route announcement in the last five years with the launch of flights to Rome. Starting 20 December 2024, the airline will offer four weekly flights from Muscat, offering travellers in Oman their first-ever direct connection to the “Eternal City”. With one-way fares starting from just OMR 75, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore one of the world’s most historic and captivating cities. “Our new direct flights to Rome represent an exciting step in our transformation. Marking our second destination in Italy, this key route not only enhances our European offerings, but also marks the start of our strategy to maximise the utilisation of our narrow-body fleet,” said Con Korfiatis, CEO of Oman Air. “As one of the most visited cities in the world, Rome is a perfect addition to our network. We are thrilled to offer our guests seamless and convenient access to the destinations they want to go to, while continuing to set new standards for service and hospitality.” Guests can fly with Oman Air from Muscat to Rome on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The outbound flight departs from Muscat at 1500 and arrives in Rome at 1930, while the return flight departs from Rome at 2030 and arrives in Muscat at 0545.

Etihad Airways announced the launch of flights to Al Alamein (DBB), the gateway to Egypt’s stunning northern coast with the Mediterranean, and within reach of the historic city of Alexandria. The route debuts in July 2025, providing guests with nonstop access to the Al Sahel region, home to some of Egypt’s most vibrant, burgeoning coastal retreats. Al Sahel is recognised for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and rich historical significance, and is fast becoming a favourite resort for leisure travellers. Etihad’s new flights will connect holidaymakers from the UAE, Gulf region and beyond to this emerging tourism hotspot. “We are excited to be adding Al Alamein to our ever-growing list of destinations,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways. “Al Alamein is the entry point to Egypt’s hidden gem, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural history, and we are sure it will become a popular choice for guests seeking relaxation and adventure. This new route further underlines our commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences and expanding access to exciting new markets.” The new flights will attract both tourists eager to explore Egypt’s Mediterranean coastline and history fans keen to visit Al Alamein’s renowned historical sites and museums. The flights are on sale now and will operate twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays using one of the airline’s modern A320 family aircraft, with eight seats in Business and 150 in Economy, and all guests enjoying Etihad’s award-winning service onboard. The announcement is just the latest new route unveiled by Etihad, with the promise of several more to come before the end of 2024.

Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines, announced the launch of its new twice-weekly flights to Dubai, marking a significant expansion of its international network. This new route not only enhances global connectivity for travelers from the Middle East and beyond but also plays a crucial role in fostering tourism, trade, and diplomatic relations between Bhutan and the UAE. Key Details: Route: Paro (PBH) – Delhi (DEL) – Dubai (DXB) v.v. Frequency: Twice Weekly (Flight Schedule below) DAY FLIGHT NO SECTOR DEPARTURE ARRIVAL MON & FRI KB800 PBH-DEL 0800 1000 DEL-DXB 1055 1340 TUE & SAT KB801 DXB-DEL 0400 0755 DEL-PBH 0910 1140 Drukair is pleased to offer a 20% promotional fare discount with the promo code ‘DUBAI20’, valid until February 28th, 2025. This offer is available through all sales channels, including ticketing counters, travel agents, and Drukair’s online booking platform. Additionally, Frequent Flyer Members can enjoy an exclusive 30% discount on flights to Dubai, available for purchase only at Drukair sales offices. To further encourage international visitors to explore the beauty of Bhutan, a special discount for foreign travelers will also be offered during the shoulder period. “Launching services to Dubai is a proud moment for Drukair. It reflects our expanding international presence and our dedication to connecting Bhutan to the world,” said Drukair’s Chief Executive Officer. This new route is expected to boost tourism in Bhutan, attracting visitors from the Middle East and providing convenient travel options for Bhutanese residents and expatriates in the UAE and neighboring regions. As Bhutan’s national carrier, Drukair is dedicated to delivering safe, comfortable, and reliable air travel. We invite you to book your journey today and experience the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality while flying ‘On …

SAUDIA has officially launched its inaugural flight from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam to Beijing, China. The new route will operate twice a week in each direction, as part of a connecting flight from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. With this addition, Dammam becomes the third city from which SAUDIA operates flights to Beijing, following Jeddah and Riyadh. The total weekly seating capacity between the Kingdom and Beijing is approximately 1,310 seats across 4 flights, while the weekly capacity to Guangzhou is 1,966 seats across 6 flights. SAUDIA has a designated Boeing B787 Dreamliner, known for its high operational efficiency and comfort, offering guests an elevated travel experience. SAUDIA celebrated the inaugural flight from Dammam to Beijing with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in the departure hall. The event was attended by Mr. Wang Qimin, The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, Engr. Mohammed Al-Hassany, CEO of Dammam Airports Company (DACO), and Mr. Wail Basaffar, the Assistant Vice President of KSA Sales at Saudia. Eng. Mohammed bin Ali Al-Hassany, CEO of Dammam Airports Company, said: “The launch of flights to Beijing, in partnership with Saudia, reflects our commitment to diversifying the international destinations of King Fahd International Airport to meet travelers’ aspirations and enhance their experience. This initiative is part of our plan to develop international air traffic, aiming to attract new airlines and increase direct destinations, which will support economic and tourism growth in the Eastern Province.” He added: “From January to September 2024, King Fahd International Airport achieved a remarkable 16.2% growth in passenger numbers compared to 2023, and I commend the tremendous efforts of our team and partners in making this accomplishment possible.” Mr. …

ITA Airways has inaugurated its first route to the United Arab Emirates with a nonstop flight between Dubai and Rome Fiumicino. The Italian reference carrier will operate this route on daily basis. The new Rome – Dubai flight is a milestone for the company, expanding its network to include a strategic market. Dubai is a global hub for both business and leisure tourism, and the launch of this nonstop service demonstrates ITA Airways’ commitment to offering optimal travel solutions while reinforcing the importance of network expansion in the company’s growth strategy. The inaugural ITA Airways flight from Rome Fiumicino, AZ 856, serviced with Airbus A321neo, landed at Dubai International (DXB) at 7:50 p.m. (local time). The first ITA Airways flight from Dubai to Rome Fiumicino, AZ857, departed at 1:50 a.m. (local time) on Monday 28th of October. To mark the occasion, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at DXB Arrivals, which was attended by Pierfrancesco Carino, Vice President International Sales ITA Airways, Benedetto Mencaroni Poiani, Regional Manager for Asia, Middle East, and Africa ITA Airways, Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy in UAE, and Robert Whitehouse, Vice President (VP) of Research at Dubai Airports. As part of the launch activities in the UAE market, ITA Airways showcased its network, brand and winter season highlights to local media representatives and stakeholders during an event hosted by the Department of Economy and Tourism of Dubai at Grand Hyatt Dubai. Emiliana Limosani, Chief Commercial Officer of ITA Airways and CEO of Volare, said: “We are delighted to inaugurate our nonstop service between Dubai and Rome Fiumicino. As the first major addition to our winter schedule, this new daily route will enhance tourism and trade between Italy …

Emirates has signed two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with Vietnam Airlines and VietJet, aimed at strengthening connectivity and offering more travel choices between Dubai and its Vietnamese gateways Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The MoUs were signed on the sidelines of the Vietnam – UAE Business Forum, held at the Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah hotel in Dubai on 28 October. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer attended the signing ceremony along with government leaders, ministers, and business representatives from both countries. Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Far East delivered a keynote highlighting the airline’s commitment to deepening its presence in Vietnam, a market it has been serving since 2012, supporting trade and tourism links between the UAE and Vietnam, as well as offering customers convenient travel options. Adnan Kazim, commented: “Enhancing our cooperation with like-minded partners like Vietnam Airlines and VietJet is integral to our core commercial strategy to better connect customers across points beyond our own network. Vietnam is a market that presents tremendous opportunities to boost tourism and trade as a key hub in Southeast Asia, and Emirates supports the UAE government’s ongoing efforts to elevate its existing economic ties with Vietnam. Our decades-long cooperation with Vietnam Airlines has enabled us to enhance connectivity between Vietnam and Dubai, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to explore further elevating this partnership while also establishing a new strategic cooperation with VietJet. We look forward to growing our footprint in Vietnam and exploring more opportunities to widen the scope of our partnerships in the future.” Emirates and Vietnam Airlines MoU The MoU sets the framework to expand the current cooperation in place between …