Airline News Page 130
Singapore Airlines Elevates Customer Experience With $45 Million Investment In Changi Airport
Singapore Airlines (SIA) will transform its SilverKris and KrisFlyer Gold lounges at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 over the next two years, investing S$45 million to elevate the on-ground customer experience at its main hub. Renovations began on 15 April 2025, progressing in phases, with completion expected around mid-2027. The revamped lounges will boast 50% more space and seating capacity, and feature upgraded facilities, signature elements from SIA’s flagship lounges at Changi Airport Terminal 3, and an enhanced variety of food and beverage options.
FlyExclusive has added its fifth Challenger super-midsize private jet to its fleet.
FlyExclusive has added its fifth Challenger super-midsize private jet to its fleet. The Kinston, North Carolina-based company is North America’s fifth-largest charter/fractional operator.
Electra Raises $115 Million to Pioneer the World's First Ultra Short Aircraft
Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) has announced it has secured $115 million in Series B funding to enter the pre-production and certification phase of the EL9, the first-ever Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in 150 feet – roughly 10% of the footprint required for similarly-sized legacy airplanes. The round was led by Prysm Capital, and Jay Park, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Prysm, has joined Electra's Board of Directors.
ETIHAD GROWS FOOTPRINT IN AFRICA AS FLIGHTS TO NAIROBI DOUBLE
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is significantly expanding its African network with new destinations and increased frequencies, reinforcing its commitment to the continent’s growing demand for air connectivity. Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, commented: “At Etihad, we have long recognised the need to strengthen our presence in Africa. Over the past year, we have been focusing on a holistic approach that enhances our presence by expanding our fleet, increasing frequencies, and forming key partnerships.”
TAP LAUNCHES CRACKING POST-EASTER SALE
TAP Air Portugal is giving travellers flying between September 2025 and March 2026 great deals on flights to Europe, North America, South America and Africa. For tickets purchased between 22 April and 4 May, return flights to Portugal and Europe start at €49 (£42). Return flights to US, Brazilian and African destinations are available from €429 (£367), €619 (£530) and €139 (£119) respectively.
All Nippon Airways And Singapore Airlines Deepen Commercial Cooperation
All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Singapore Airlines (SIA) will begin operating revenue-sharing flights between Singapore and Japan from September 2025, with the joint fare products for these services going on sale in May 2025, further deepening their commercial partnership.
QANTAS CELEBRATES 90 YEARS OF INTERNATIONAL FLYING
Qantas is celebrating 90 years of international flying, marking an incredible milestone in the evolution of the aviation industry and nine decades of connecting Australia with the world. On 17 April 1935, Qantas operated Australia’s first international passenger flight from Brisbane to Singapore, carrying two customers on a DH86 aircraft. The flight took three and a half days with 16 stops along the way.
Aeroplan, Canada's leading travel loyalty program, has partnered with Chexy
Aeroplan, Canada's leading travel loyalty program, has partnered with Chexy, an innovative Canadian-founded, female-led fintech platform, to help members turn payments for essential services like rent, bills and taxes into rewards. Starting today, Aeroplan members across Canada can earn Aeroplan points through Chexy, with Aeroplan credit cardholders earning even more points when paying with their card. (CNW Group/Air Canada) Chexy enables members to use their credit card for large, routine payments typically made via e-transfer or pre-authorized debit or bill payment — helping them earn points, build credit and get more out of expenses that usually go unrewarded. Chexy joins Aeroplan's growing list of world-class retail partners, including Starbucks, Uber, LCBO, and 1,200+ participating Parkland fuel and convenience stores Canada-wide and more.
Discover the Future of Air Travel with Air New Zealand’s Newly Retrofitted Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Air New Zealand has officially welcomed the first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner from its fleet back to Auckland after undergoing a significant retrofit. The aircraft, ZK-NZH, spent 184 days in Singapore undergoing an extensive transformation that has included new Business Premier Luxe™ seats, redesigned Business Premier, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins. This world-first retrofit marks a major milestone in the airline’s 85-year history and is part of Air New Zealand’s ambitious plans to refurbish its entire fleet of 14 Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
Seaplane Tourism Set to Transform Tripura Travel Industry
Tripura is preparing to make waves in the tourism sector with the launch of a pioneering seaplane tourism initiative aimed at transforming travel across the northeastern state. By leveraging its network of scenic lakes and rivers, the state aims to offer visitors an adventurous and efficient way to explore its natural and cultural landmarks. The upcoming service will connect key water-based destinations such as Narikel Kunja, Chabimura, and Rudrasagar Lake. Each site offers a distinct experience—Narikel Kunja with its tranquil waters, Chabimura’s dramatic riverfront cliffs adorned with ancient carvings, and Rudrasagar’s royal charm anchored by the famed Neermahal, a water palace steeped in history.
Korean Air partners with UNICEF Korea to support children worldwide
Korean Air has joined forces with UNICEF Korea in a new initiative aimed at supporting children around the world. The partnership agreement was signed on April 21 at the Korean Air’s headquarters in Seoul, with Keehong Woo, Vice Chairman of Korean Air and Mijin Cho, Secretary General of UNICEF Korea in attendance. As part of the collaboration, the two organizations will launch the “Flight for Better Tomorrow” campaign, expected to begin as early as May 2025. The program will introduce an easy way for travelers to make online donations while booking their flights—making it easier to give back through travel.
Qatar Airways to Unveil Arabic-Speaking Version of Sama at ATM Dubai
Qatar Airways, the multiple award-winning airline, is set to redefine the travel experience once again at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai 2025. Building on its reputation for pioneering digital advancements in aviation, Qatar Airways will offer visitors the chance to experience a suite of its industry-leading solutions at ATM Dubai 2025, including Sama’s AI booking, Qverse, Multi-Sensory Experience and Qsuite – Next Gen