FlyDubai is launching a three times weekly service to Aden and a twice weekly service to Kandahar, starting on 01 August and 25 July 2014 respectively. These new route launches bring the airline’s network to 68 destinations.

FlyDubai will become the first UAE-based carrier to fly directly to both Aden in Yemen and Kandahar in Afghanistan. The airline first began operations to Sana’a, the capital of Yemen, in 2012 and Kabul, the Afghan capital, in 2010.

Commenting on the launch of flights, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer, said, “We are pleased to announce the launch of flights to Aden and Kandahar. These additions to our network will create greater opportunity for travel and trade between these two countries and the United Arab Emirates. FlyDubai will launch both these routes with Business Class.”

Aden is the commercial capital of Yemen and its deep and naturally protected seaport remains a key driver of the country’s economy. Due to its strategic geographic location, Aden Free Zone has established itself as a regional logistics and manufacturing hub which has helped strengthen economic and social development in the seaport city. FlyDubai will operate three flights per week to Aden, one of which will be via Djibouti.

This new service will increase flights to Djibouti to six a week. In addition, flights are available for sale between Aden and Djibouti. Located in southern Afghanistan, Kandahar is the capital of Kandahar Province with an estimated population of 500,000. The city is a major trading centre for sheep, wool, cotton, silk, felt, grains and fresh and dried fruit.

Flights to both destinations will offer Business Class which was launched towards the end of last year. FlyDubai’s Business Class provides passengers with a priority service on the ground and a more personal flying experience in the air. Customers benefit from a priority check-in service and a dedicated 24-hour customer service team to assist with bookings and attend to enquiries throughout their journey. On board, comfortable spacious seats made of Italian leather have a generous recline. FlyDubai’s award-winning inflight entertainment system is shown on a high-definition 12.1-inch touchscreen and a choice of internationally inspired menus and refreshments are served during the flight.