• From today, all Etihad New York and Chicago flights will be operated by the airline’s new A350 fleet, providing best-in-class inflight service • The ‘Sustainable50’ programme drives operational efficiencies and supports Etihad’s decarbonisation efforts Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways celebrated the arrival of its new Airbus A350-1000 in the United States following the inaugural commercial flight from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) on 30 June. The aircraft, which accommodates 371 passengers, is one of five new Airbus A350s to join Etihad’s fleet this year. From today, all Etihad flights servicing New York and Chicago O’Hare International Airport will be operated by the ......read more
Passengers embrace IT for convenient and seamless air travel, as the air transport industry continues to digitalize the journey’s steps 30 June 2022 – SITA’s 2022 Passenger IT Insights research, published today, highlights pent-up demand for both business and leisure travel emerging from the pandemic, with passengers further embracing mobile and touchless technologies to make the journey as convenient and seamless as possible. The survey reveals an increase in passenger use of mobile devices for booking, on board the airplane, and for bag collection in Q1 2022 compared to Q1 2020, while automated gates saw increases in adoption for identity control, boarding, and border control. The results clearly reflect the accelerated digitalization of air travel since the outbreak of the pandemic and ......read more
Hatta Resorts and Hatta Wadi Hub upcoming season will welcome visitors 15 September 2022 A new multipurpose adventure ropes course for both children and adults to be added to the destination’s wide range of activities Open through summer 2022: Hatta Kayak, and the hiking and biking trails Season 4 witnessed 200,000 visitors from 125 nationalities and an increase of 32 percent in the number of partners from the Hatta local community Dubai, UAE, 30 June 2022: Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with operations across hospitality, leisure and entertainment, announced that Hatta Resorts and Hatta Wadi Hub Season 5 will commence on 15 September 2022, following a successful extended Season 4 that welcomed more than 200,000 visitors from 125 nationalities ......read more
This future-proofing project is a key pillar in Dubai Airports’ strategic growth plans, ensuring its ongoing commitment to passenger care and operational excellence The first aircraft touched down on the newly refurbished tarmac on June 22nd, marking the official reopening following 45 days of extensive rehabilitation to improve safety, efficiency and capacity well into the future Dubai, UAE – June 30, 2022: Dubai Airports has announced the successful on-time completion of Dubai International’s (DXB) northern runway project, following 45 days of extensive rehabilitation works from May 9 to June 22. On June 22nd, an Emirates A380 bound for Amman, Jordan was the first aircraft to depart from the new runway and shortly after, an Emirates A380 arriving from Sydney, Australia ......read more
First flight for Hajj pilgrims scheduled to depart Dubai for Madinah on 30 June Dubai, United Arab Emirates – June 27, 2021: The Hajj Committee at Dubai Airports has announced that it has finalised preparations to ensure a smooth and seamless airport experience for customers who will be travelling for the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj to Saudi Arabia in the coming days and weeks. Dubai Airports’ Hajj Committee which comprises representatives from key service partners including Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, Dubai Health Authority, flydubai, Emirates, Saudi Airlines and flynas among others – met recently to put the final measures in place across DXB’s terminals. According to the Committee the operator has earmarked dedicated counters ......read more
• This route is the first regular direct international passenger flight to resume for Beijing under the latest mandate of the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the State Council, in response to Covid-19 • The resumption of the direct air link between the two capitals is another achievement of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the UAE and China Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, will resume direct passenger flights between Abu Dhabi and Beijing from 29 June 2022, becoming the first regular direct international passenger flight to recommence for Beijing, under the latest mandate of the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the State Council. The airline will operate a weekly flight on a Boeing ......read more
Enhanced global connectivity brings our incredible Low Fares to Saudi Arabia in support of KSA’s Vision 2030, supporting rapidly expanding tourism and aviation sectors within the Kingdom 22 June 2022, Budapest, Hungary: Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest growing and most sustainable airline, is launching exciting new routes from Dammam, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to Rome, Vienna and Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi route will be operated by Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, Wizz Air’s joint venture airline with ADQ. Launching in September 2022, the new destinations are the first step towards a growing presence in KSA which will provide for the first time truly affordable, hassle-free, point to point travel for tourists and residents in the Kingdom, Europe and the UAE, strengthening global connectivity. The new routes by Wizz Air introduce a ......read more
21, June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for governments to apply the lessons learned from the dismantling of global connectivity in response to COVID-19 to ensure that future global health threats can be effectively managed without closing borders. The World Health Organization (WHO) long advised that border closures are not an effective means of managing a global pandemic. Evidence observed during the pandemic proved the point. Most governments ignored this advice, acted in isolation from the industry and other governments, and put in place measures to restrict travel. This collapsed global air connectivity with massive negative economic and human consequences. Moreover, the restart of global connectivity has been made more challenging because governments continue to ......read more
21 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urged governments to work closely with the aviation industry to ensure that aviation and incumbent aviation safety systems can safely co-exist with new 5G services[i]. While IATA recognizes the economic importance of making spectrum available to support next generation commercial wireless telecommunications, maintaining current levels of safety of passengers, flight crews, and aircraft must continue to be one of governments’ highest priorities. The call came as the industry was meeting in Doha, Qatar at the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting. “We must not repeat the recent experience in the United States, where the rollout of C-band spectrum 5G services created enormous disruption to aviation, owing to the potential risk of interference ......read more
20 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the winners of the third edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards. Inspirational Role Model: Güliz Öztürk – CEO, Pegasus Airlines High Flyer Award: Kanchana Gamage – Founder and Director, The Aviatrix Project Diversity & Inclusion Team: airBaltic “The IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards recognize individuals and teams that are helping aviation to improve gender balance. Determination to make this happen is a common denominator for this year’s winners. They are breaking barriers and helping to make aviation an equally attractive career choice for men and for women,” said Karen Walker, Editor-in-Chief, Air Transport World and chair of the judging ......read more
20 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Pegasus Airlines Vice-Chairperson of the Board (Managing Director) Mehmet Tevfik Nane has assumed his duties as Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (BoG) for a one-year term, effective from the conclusion of the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Doha, Qatar on 21 June. Nane is the 80th chair of the IATA BoG. He has served on the BoG since 2019. He succeeds JetBlue Airways CEO Robin Hayes, who will continue to serve on the BoG. “I’m honored to take on this position at a time when the industry is emerging from our worst downturn. In addition to maintaining momentum toward re-opening the globe to travel and commerce, we have a very full agenda over the next 12 months. This includes achieving agreement at the ICAO Assembly on a Long ......read more
20 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced an upgrade to its outlook for the airline industry’s 2022 financial performance as the pace of recovery from the COVID-19 crisis quickens. Forecast highlights include: • Industry losses are expected to reduce to -$9.7 billion (improved from the October 2021 forecast for an $11.6 billion loss) for a net loss margin of -1.2%. That is a huge improvement from losses of $137.7 billion (-36.0% net margin) in 2020 and $42.1 billion (-8.3% net margin) in 2021. • Industry-wide profitability in 2023 appears within reach with North America already expected to deliver an $8.8 billion profit in 2022. • Efficiency gains and improving yields are helping airlines to reduce losses even with rising labor and fuel costs (the latter ......read more
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has confirmed it will return to London Heathrow’s Terminal 4 from 22 June 2022. Etihad is returning to Terminal 4 following a temporary home at Terminals 2 & 3 during the pandemic. Transport connections including the London Underground and Heathrow Express will also reopen. The Etihad Lounge will also re-open for Etihad’s First and Business class guests, as well as Etihad Guest Platinum and Gold members. The lounge has separate areas for relaxing and dining, as well as a children’s playroom to entertain Etihad’s ‘Little VIPs’. Etihad has also confirmed that from July to September 2022 it is increasing its current four daily flights from London Heathrow to five daily flights. Also from July, ......read more
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), announced that leaders of the global aviation industry are gathering in Doha, Qatar, for the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), with Qatar Airways as the host airline. The event (19-21 June) attracts the industry’s most senior leaders from among IATA’s 290 member airlines, as well as leading government officials, strategic partners, equipment suppliers, and media. “In a few days, Doha will become the aviation capital of the world. The last time we met in Doha, in 2014, we were celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first airline flight. This year’s AGM is another momentous occasion: Airlines are simultaneously recovering from the COVID-19 crisis, setting the path to achieving net zero carbon emissions by ......read more
The fifth-generation SUV combines cutting-edge interiors with the latest tech innovations Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 13, 2022 – Al Majid Motors, the exclusive dealer for KIA in the UAE, has announced the launch of the all-new Sportage. The fifth-generation Kia Sportage combines cutting-edge interiors with the latest tech innovations to ring in a new era for one of the brand’s most sought-after models. Equipped with a comprehensive redesign the 2023 Kia Sportage takes the identity to the next level while paying homage to its rich heritage. The arrival of Kia Sportage in the UAE brings in a new offering of the brand with its new design philosophy ‘Opposites United’ which inspires every aspect of the SUV’s appearance. Sportage’s exterior epitomises contrast with its bold, ......read more
13 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that air travel resumed its strong recovery trend in April, despite the war in Ukraine and travel restrictions in China. This was driven primarily by international demand. Note: We have returned to year-on-year traffic comparisons, instead of comparisons with the 2019 period, unless otherwise noted. Owing to the low traffic base in 2021, some markets will show very high year-on-year growth rates, even if the size of these markets is still significantly smaller than they were in 2019. • Total demand for air travel in April 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) was up 78.7% compared to April 2021 and slightly ahead of March 2022’s 76.0% year-over-year increase. • April domestic air travel was down 1.0% ......read more
Dubai, UAE – June 9, 2022: The Northern runway rehabilitation programme at Dubai International (DXB) has surpassed its midway point on schedule paving the way for the reopening of the runway on June 22, operator Dubai Airports has announced. Since May 9. more than 1,000 vehicles and 3,000 people have been working on-site. around the clock at DXB to complete the project. The essential work involves resurfacing the entire 4.5km long Northern runway, strengthening the wider runway strip, as well as reinforcing the paving on key taxiway entries and exits, and repairing drainage infrastructure. Aeronautical ground lighting, navigational aids and meteorological equipment are also being replaced, and a navigation aids substation is being relocated –as the Southern runway maintains operations at the world’s busiest ......read more
SITA WorldTracer® Lost and Found Property reduces the cost and time to trace missing property 9 June 2022 – SITA has signed an exclusive agreement with UKi Media & Events to trace and repatriate lost items at this year’s Passenger Terminal Expo, the world’s biggest airport exhibition being held in Paris from 15-17 June. Using SITA WorldTracer® Lost and Found Property, attendees will be able to use their mobile device to register any missing items, which are automatically matched with found items, dramatically reducing the time and cost of repatriating lost items. Every year more than 10,000 people from 130 countries visit the exhibition, with hundreds of personal items being left behind or lost. SITA WorldTracer® Lost and Found Property, was launched in 2021 to solve a ......read more
• Winner of the Passenger Choice Best Inflight Entertainment in the Middle East award Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways has been recognised in the Airline Passenger Experience (APEX) Passenger Choice Awards in a glittering awards ceremony in Dublin, Ireland last night. The UAE’s national airline took home the 2022 Passenger Choice Award® for Best Entertainment in the Middle East. On Etihad’s E-BOX entertainment offering, guests will find over 200 movies, more than 350 TV shows, 15 radio channels and 800 albums in a variety of genres and languages. Video and audio content is supplemented with a wide variety of games as well as seven channels of Live TV featuring global news channels and sport. On the airline’s newest A350 aircraft, the latest ......read more
09 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released April 2022 data for global air cargo markets showing a drop in demand and contraction in capacity. The effects of Omicron in Asia and the Russia–Ukraine war continue to create a challenging operating backdrop that is driving the decline. Note: We returned to year-on-year traffic comparisons, instead of comparisons with the 2019 period, unless otherwise noted. • Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), fell 11.2% compared to April 2021 (-10.6% for international operations). Global demand is down 1% compared to April 2019. • Capacity was 2% below 2021 (+1.2% for international operations). Both global capacity and international capacity decreased slightly in April compared to March. ......read more
New commitments in carbon neutrality and diversity, and supporting communities during the pandemic The Cathay Pacific Group has released its comprehensive annual Sustainable Development Report that addresses its commitment and progress in the areas of environmental, social and governance, which are of great importance to its stakeholders, and towards its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Regional General Manager, South Asia Middle East and Africa (SAMEA), Rakesh Raicar said, “We continue to ramp up our efforts to fight climate change and have made specific tangible progress towards supporting and prioritising our sustainability issues which are communicated in our 2021 Sustainable Development Report. This includes supporting our communities around the world by transporting essential aid ......read more
Airlines have a once in a generation opportunity to restructure, innovate and expand, said James Hogan today in a keynote address to the Global Aerospace Summit in Abu Dhabi. “The global pandemic has been the biggest systemic shock in the history of aviation,” he said. “But that does give a unique opportunity for airlines that can move fast to respond to the situation. “Smart operators will treat this as a ‘blank sheet of paper’ moment, looking to reinvent processes, products and mind-sets. There is a huge opportunity in front of us for airlines to create a golden age of innovation and service.” Speaking on the topic of ‘The renewal of the commercial aviation sector’, Mr Hogan identified five levers that can re-shape the future of ......read more
The agreement will see the online portal provide IT development services to the charitable association Riyadh, KSA, 19 April 2022: Zamzam.com, the online portal facilitating Umrah booking services in the region, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AlBirr Charitable Society in Makkah Al Mukarramah. The MoU aims to help develop the Information Technology Unit at the association and was signed by the CEO of Zamzam.com, Mr. Omar Siraj Akbar, and Mr. Hisham Abderrahman Shilly, Vice Chairman of the Board of the AlBirr Charitable Society in Makkah Al Mukarramah. As part of its commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to provide support to the society, and within the framework of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Zamzam.com joins hands with the first charitable association in ......read more
Zamzam.com launches B2C options to its portal A seamless booking experience with exclusive packages and services available directly to travelers Riyadh, KSA, 12 April 2022: Planning an Umrah trip could quickly turn into a daunting task given the many aspects that are involved. From booking flights and accommodations to ground transfers, the entire process could prove to be more than one person can handle. With this in mind, Zamzam.com, an online platform for Umrah travels, in joint venture with TBO.COM, one of the leading global travel distributions platforms in the world, is proud to announce that Zamzam.com is now the first OTA platform that offers B2C visa services directly to consumers. Curated and carefully designed packages that meet the needs of pilgrims coming from all over the country the wider GCC ......read more
Globe Air Cargo (GAC) Korea, a subsidiary of ECS Group, is proud to serve as GSA to Korea’s young and ambitious hybrid service carrier, Air Premia, in its home market. There is a Korean proverb: “bogi joeun tteogi meokgido jota” which translates literally into “good-looking tteok [rice cake] tastes good”, and means “if it looks good, it’ll likely taste good.” Take ECS Group’s newest subsidiary, Seoul-based GAC Korea, and match it with Air Premia, the first Korean hybrid service carrier (HSC) with a serious interest in air cargo, and the result is a very promising tteok. Both companies share the same drive and corporate values that point to a long and successful business partnership, and both operate out of Incheon International Airport (ICN), Seoul, Korea. In accordance with the ......read more
Group records annual loss of AED 3.8 billion (US$ 1.0 billion) due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic impact, a significant improvement from last year with dnata returning to profitability • Group revenue of AED 66.2 billion (US$ 18.1 billion) increased by 86% with strong customer demand as worldwide travel restrictions ease • Ends year with an improved and strong cash balance of AED 25.8 billion (US$ 7.0 billion) Emirates reports a significantly reduced loss of AED 3.9 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) compared with AED 20.3 billion (US$ 5.5 billion) loss in the previous year • Revenue up 91% to AED 59.2 billion (US$ 16.1 billion), as airline expanded global capacity and reinstated more passenger flights • Airline capacity increased by 47% to 36.4 billion ATKMs, with final five A380 aircraft added to ......read more
• Elevated experience for guests with high-quality, design-led products • Fully reusable dining equipment reduces waste • Eliminates single-use plastic from meal trays • Closed loop recycling creates a circular economy of all reusable plastic Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has unveiled its new Economy class soft furnishings and tableware which will be launched on board in the fourth quarter of the year. The new products have been designed with sustainability and improved guest experience as primary objectives. The announcement was made on the opening day of the Arabian Travel Market, a trade event for the travel and tourism industry taking place this week in Dubai. The Economy class experience will be upgraded with ......read more
Passengers urged to confirm flight information with their airlines in advance Dubai, UAE – May 9, 2022: Dubai Airports has confirmed that the Northern Runway Rehabilitation project at Dubai International (DXB) is ready to commence from today, May 9 until June 22, 2022. The essential works being carried out will see the world’s busiest international airport’s operations reduce to a one runway operation. To minimise disruption to our guests more than 1,000 flights per week are scheduled to arrive and depart from Dubai World Central (DWC) during the 45-day period, with the majority of those flights being operated by flydubai, Spice Jet and Indigo. As always, Dubai Airports is working with the airlines, control authorities, commercial and service ......read more
flydubai carried 2.35 million passengers between 01 January and 31 March this year, an increase of 114% compared to 2021 The carrier has grown its network to more than 100 destinations exceeding pre-pandemic levels New aircraft deliveries in 2022 support flydubai’s growing network and operations Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 09, May 2022: flydubai, the Dubai-based airline, has recorded an exceptional performance in the First Quarter of 2022, building on the momentum from the tremendous performance in 2021. The carrier’s growing network and added capacity on its existing routes have been supported by new aircraft deliveries since the start of the year. Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “Dubai has demonstrated its ability to successfully overcome the various challenges presented ......read more
● Flights were operated in commemoration of Earth Day as part of Etihad’s efforts to raise industry awareness and participation in the drive for aviation decarbonisation ● EcoFlights tested a range of operational efficiencies and technologies, while contrail flights tested prevention systems with SATAVIA ● Flight tests included the first sustainability focused EcoFlights ever performed on an A350 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – May 05, 2022: Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has successfully performed the world’s most intensive sustainable flight testing programme, operating 42 flights over a five-day period to test operational efficiencies, technology and procedures that will reduce carbon ......read more
• Despite impact of Covid19 on global aviation, Etihad’s Greenliner programme implemented key sustainability initiatives throughout 2020 and 2021 to test and develop long term decarbonisation solutions for the entire industry • Clear and ambitious path forward with 2025, 2035 and 2050 emissions targets • Introduction of Sustainable50 programme to expand Etihad’s sustainability strategy to become world’s most comprehensive industry-wide testing and innovation programme. • Achieved 2020-2021 sustainability targets and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 56 percent since 2018 • Committed to reduction target in aviation’s first sustainability-linked sukuk, and raised US$1.2 billion in the first sustainability-linked loan (SLL) tied to environmental, social and governance (ESG) ......read more
• The Dubai-based carrier resumes flights to Ha’il and Tabuk in Saudi Arabia from 09 May with five flights a week • The resumption of flights to Ha’il and Tabuk sees flydubai’s network in Saudi Arabia grow to ten points Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 21, April 2022: flydubai, the Dubai-based airline, has announced today that it will resume operations to Ha’il and Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, which will bring the number of destinations served by the carrier in the Kingdom to ten. Flights to Ha’il and Tabuk will commence on 09 May with five weekly flights. flydubai has built a network of more than 95 unique destinations in 50 countries served by a young fleet of 63 Boeing 737 aircraft. With the resumption of flights to Hail and Tabuk, flydubai’s network in Saudi Arabia has now ......read more
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – April 21, 2022: Etihad Engineering, one of the world’s leading maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services providers, has signed a Component Agreement with Touchdown Aviation (TDA), a global specialist in the supply, loan, exchange, and repair of aircraft components. As part of the agreement, TDA will provide Etihad Engineering supply chain solutions locally in Abu Dhabi, to ensure the availability of high demanded aircraft parts. Frederic Dupont, Vice President Technical Sales & Customer Service, Etihad Engineering said: “As we continue to expand our components repair capabilities, we are delighted to have signed an agreement with Touchdown Aviation, as it will not only contribute to our component services growth strategy and at the same time facilitate parts ......read more
• Over 30 commercial flights will test a range of operational efficiencies and technologies, including contrail prevention systems with SATAVIA • Coinciding with Earth Day, the test flights are part of Etihad’s overarching sustainability strategy, incorporating the Greenliner and Sustainable50 programmes • Operated on Etihad’s fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft, spearheaded by the signature Boeing 787-10 ‘Etihad Greenliner’, and Etihad’s newest aircraft, the Airbus A350-1000 ‘Sustainable 50’ Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – April 20, 2022: Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, is undertaking a week of intensive research and testing on over 30 flights to test operational efficiencies, technology and procedures that ......read more
Airbus will handle materials services including on-site stock at Air Cairo’s main base and outstations, as well as components repairs, logistics and component engineering. Airbus’ material solution will allow Air Cairo to minimize capital expenditure thanks to reduced upfront investments and secured maintenance costs. Airbus’ FHS will also maximize Air Cairo’s aircraft availability through spare parts availability and components reliability expertise. More than 1,200 aircraft worldwide are currently being supported by Airbus’ Flight Hour Services which are proving more relevant than ever in post-crisis times when airlines need to carefully monitor their costs and contain investments. ...read more
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – March 14, 2022: Etihad Engineering, one of the world’s leading commercial aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services providers, has won ‘MRO Service Provider of the Year – Commercial Aviation’ award at the Aviation Achievement Awards 2022. Abdul Khaliq Saeed, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Engineering, was honoured with the ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Aviation Industry’ award at the event held in Dubai, UAE. The Aviation Achievement Awards, celebrate and recognise exceptional resilience, innovation, growth, and leadership in the aviation industry. Etihad Engineering, driven by the visionary leadership of Abdul Khaliq Saeed, has continued to serve customers across the globe whilst expanding its global footprint by diversifying its ......read more
• Extended working hours for Visa Application Centres in UAE • Exclusive 50% Ramadan discount on Premium Lounge services for all UAE Healthcare professionals VFS Global, the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide, announced the opening hours of the Visa Application Centres (VACs) in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including extended working hours to provide even greater convenience to visa applicants during the holy month of Ramadan. Countries Dubai Abu Dhabi United Kingdom Monday – Friday 09.00am – 02.00pm Extended hours: 02.00pm to 06.00pm Prime Time: 08.00am to ......read more
07 April 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air cargo markets showing that demand increased in February despite a challenging operating backdrop. Several factors benefitted air cargo in February compared to January. On the demand side, manufacturing activity ramped-up quickly after the early February Lunar New Year holiday. Capacity was positively influenced by the general and progressive relaxation of COVID-19 travel restrictions, reduced flight cancellations due to Omicron-related factors (outside of Asia), and fewer winter weather operational disruptions. Note: We are returning to year-on-year traffic comparisons, instead of comparisons with the 2019 period, unless otherwise noted. Cargo demand is tracking above pre-COVID-19 levels, although capacity is ......read more
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi Airports, the owner and operator of the emirate’s five airports, and Etihad Guest, the award-winning loyalty programme of Etihad Airways, signed an agreement to launch the “Miles on the Go” product at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Etihad Guest members can now instantly earn and spend Etihad Guest Miles when shopping at participating merchants located at Abu Dhabi International Airport. By simply downloading the Etihad Guest app and linking up to five Visa cards to their profiles, members can spend their miles and receive cashback on their cards. Members can earn 1 Etihad Guest Mile and 1 Etihad Guest Tier Mile for every AED 3 spent at any of the 119 participating outlets including, lounges, luxury retail stores, dining establishments and Duty-Free outlets ......read more
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: In celebration of the Holy Month, Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has teamed up with Emirati Chef Khaled Alsaadi to offer a specially curated inflight menu for the month of Ramadan. The Abu Dhabi-based Chef has put his signature twist on authentic Emirati recipes, fusing contemporary cooking techniques and local ingredients to recreate popular Ramadan dishes for guests. Terry Daly, Executive Director of Guest Experience, Brand and Marketing, Etihad Airways, said: “This Ramadan, we wanted to surprise our guests with a special menu that takes a modern approach to traditional, well-loved recipes, to make every iftar on board Etihad Airways a memorable experience. Our special Ramadan menu in collaboration with Chef Khaled brings our guests the warmth and ......read more
• Next-generation aircraft will be deployed to key North American and Indian destinations by peak summer season • ‘Sustainability50’ programme to drive operational efficiencies and support Etihad’s decarbonisation efforts Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways today 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 ......read more
26, March 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 78th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit will take place 19-21 June 2022 in Doha, Qatar, hosted by Qatar Airways. This will be the second time that the global gathering of aviation’s top leaders will be held in Qatar; the first being in 2014. Originally, the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit were planned for the same dates in Shanghai, People’s Republic of China, hosted by China Eastern Airlines. The decision to change the venue reflects continuing COVID-19 related restrictions on travel to China. “It is deeply disappointing that we are not able to meet in Shanghai as planned. In the meantime, we are pleased to be returning to the dynamic aviation hub of Doha and ......read more
Dubai, UAE, March 24, 2022: Strange experiences await Global Village guests at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!® this season and if you haven’t visited yet, there’s still time now that Global Village has announced its season extension. Over and above the many new exhibits, this season saw the introduction of an immersive, multisensory 4D Moving Theatre that features built-in motion and a varied range of special effects, synchronised to make you feel like you’re in the film with the ever-popular Monster Family. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium boasts a diverse collection of rare, real life exhibits and hands-on interactive experiences at six unique galleries. Over 250 rare artefacts, unbelievable exhibits, wax figures of strange, unusual and historical people, interactive games, the horrific Dark ......read more
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: As travellers begin flying for the spring break, Etihad Airways is preparing to welcome a large volume of passengers at Abu Dhabi International Airport over the weekend and urges travellers to follow the below tips. Covid related travel restrictions have been completely removed for travellers flying to UK, Bahrain and Ireland, while travellers to Jordan, Maldives or Saudi Arabia need only provide a health declaration form. More information can be found on etihad.com/destinationguide. Travellers departing from Abu Dhabi will only need to take a PCR test if it is a requirement of their final destination. Passengers who are fully vaccinated do not need a PCR test when returning to Abu Dhabi. Terry Daly, Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand and ......read more
Dubai, 22 March 2022 – Tourism Malaysia is participating for the fourth time at the Gulf Travel Show (GTS) from 22 to 23 March 2022. Focusing on business meetings, the digital event hosts buyers from across the region. After the success of the first three editions in November 2020, March 2021 and October 2021, Gulf Travel Show is back by popular demand in 2022. The two-day conference features networking sessions between the Middle East and from across the world as well as panel discussions between travel experts, tourism and hospitality sectors on the current state of the industry. Participants of the travel show include travel agents, tour operators, tourism boards, airlines, travel management firms, international agencies, hotels, and media from 43 countries. As a platinum partner, Tourism Malaysia is ......read more
17 March 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that The International Air Transport Association (IATA) welcomed the increasing momentum towards re-opening of borders and relaxation of travel restrictions, as COVID-19 moves into the endemic phase. An IATA survey of travel restrictions for the world’s top 50 air travel markets (comprising 88% of international demand in 2019 as measured by revenue passenger kilometers) revealed the growing access available to vaccinated travelers: • 25 markets representing 38% of 2019 international demand are open to vaccinated travelers without quarantine measures or testing requirements—up from 18 markets (28% of 2019 international demand) in mid-February. • 38 markets representing 65% of 2019 international demand are ......read more
Spell-binding street performances from five continents set to wow audiences at Global Village Dubai, UAE, March 14, 2022: Global Village is celebrating the International Day of Happiness all week long with its brand new Happiness Street Fest which features some of the world’s most talented street artists. From March 18 to 27, guests will experience high-energy entertainment on the streets of Global Village. The UAE and the wider region's leading multicultural destination for culture, shopping, and entertainment has exciting plans in the pipeline for Happiness Street Fest, with an international line-up of extraordinary street acts from around the world and fireworks every night. Jaki Ellenby, Executive Director, Marketing at Global Village said: “We pride ourselves on bringing the best of cultures from ......read more
10, March 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air cargo markets showing slower growth in January 2022. Supply chain disruptions and capacity constraints, as well as a deterioration in economic conditions for the sector dampened demand. Note: We are returning to year-on-year traffic comparisons, instead of comparisons with the 2019 period, unless otherwise noted. Cargo demand is tracking above pre-COVID-19 levels, although capacity is still constrained. • Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), was up 2.7% compared to January 2021 (3.2% for international operations). This was significantly lower than the 9.3% growth seen in December 2021 (11.1% for international operations). • Capacity was 11.4% above January 2021 (10.8% for international ......read more
09th March 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the opening of the nomination period for the 2022 IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards. IATA member airlines and organizations from across the aviation value chain can put themselves forward or nominate others within the aviation industry until 18h00 CET on 24 April 2022. The Awards recognize three categories of leadership in the area of diversity and inclusion: • Inspirational Role Model Award: recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry who has had a significant impact on the aviation agenda through her strong contribution to business delivery, as well as her ongoing support of the diversity and inclusion agenda. Nominees are welcome from across the aviation industry. • High Flyer ......read more
Focused around three key pillars of ‘Connect, Grow, Thrive’, Dubai Airports Women’s Network (DAWN) will connect female professionals at the organisation, enabling the exchange of knowledge and experiences, and inspiring success through example Dubai, March 08th, 2022 - Dubai Airports, the operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), has announced the launch of the new Dubai Airports Women’s Network (DAWN), a dedicated platform to empower, inspire, inform and connect women in aviation and maximise personal and professional development opportunities for Dubai Airports’ female professionals. Focused around three key pillars – ‘Connect’, ‘Grow’, ‘Thrive’ – the DAWN platform will provide a range of networking and ......read more
Al Midfa: The Sharjah Airport’s strategy was successful in gaining the trust of travelers, and attracting new airline and cargo companies April 26, 2022: Over three million passengers travelled in the first quarter of 2022 through Sharjah Airport, witnessing an increase of 119.2 per cent as compared to 1.3 million passengers in the same period last year. The aircraft movement for ......read more