Airline News Page 31
British Airways launches St. Louis and Guernsey
Two new British Airways routes took to the skies this week, as the first flights to St. Louis, Missouri in the US, and Guernsey in the Channel Islands departed from London St. Louis became the 27th US destination to join the British Airways network, as the inaugural flight to the ‘Gateway to the West’ landed. The airline offers more direct flights to the US than any other European airline. In a playful pun, the first flight was operated by an entire crew named Louis, Lewis or Louise.
Emirates Expands Global Travel Rehearsal Programme to the UK
Emirates, the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline, has launched its “Travel Rehearsal” programme in the UK, hosting its first session in the country at London Stansted Airport (STN). The Travel Rehearsal programme allows people with accessible travel requirements to experience a guided simulation of the complete air travel journey, familiarising them with airport procedures and onboard environments ahead of time – helping reduce anxiety and build confidence before an actual flight.
Qantas has launched a major domestic sale, with more than 2 million discounted seats
Qantas has launched a major domestic sale, with more than 2 million discounted seats across 90 routes on the airline’s domestic and regional network. The week-long sale* includes fares in both Economy and Business through to March 2027, including during the upcoming June long weekend and winter school holidays, one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Virgin Atlantic appoints Anthony Uphill as Vice President Sales
Virgin Atlantic today announces the appointment of Anthony Uphill as Vice President Sales joining the travel company on 5th May 2026. In his new role, Anthony will be responsible for the airline’s sales performance, with direct accountability for corporate and agency sales. He will work closely with joint venture partners Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM, while exploring new revenue growth opportunities with SkyTeam and other partner airlines across Virgin Atlantic’s global portfolio.
The New Terminal One at JFK Welcomes Saudia as Newest Airline Partner
The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport will serve as the future home of Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, when the new terminal opens in 2026, marking a bold new chapter for the airline at the United States' largest international gateway.
Ethiopian Airlines Converts Options of Six Boeing 787 Dreamliner Airplanes into Firm Orders
Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines announced today the purchase of six 787 Dreamliner jets as the airline fully exercises commitments from its 2023 landmark order. Ethiopian Airlines will use the 787-9 jets to expand its intercontinental network from Addis Ababa and increase cargo capacity as demand for long-haul travel continues to rise.
Emirates completes more than 40 Travel Rehearsals for youth with autism globally
Emirates has continued its commitment to making travel more accessible for all, by successfully arranging bespoke Emirates Travel Rehearsals across more than 40 cities globally over the past year. With more than 250 families positively impacted, Emirates Travel Rehearsals are designed to support children and young adults with autism, allowing them to practice the journey through the airport to prepare for real flights - easing travel anxiety and empowering them to fly with more confidence.
#LETSGETLOSTWITHWIZZ: WIN A SEAT ON WIZZ AIR’S MYSTERY GETAWAY
Wizz Air, London’s local airline, is giving British travellers the chance to swap predictable holidays for something far less expected, with the return of its Let’s Get Lost campaign. A select group of 30 winners will board a flight departing from London Luton Airport on Saturday 9 May to a destination that will remain a secret until arrival. The experience is designed to showcase the breadth of Wizz Air’s network with a focus on culturally rich cities and emerging destinations that are often overlooked in favour of more traditional hotspots.
VIRGIN ATLANTIC TAKES OFF IN CHATGPT WITH FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND AIRLINE APP
Virgin Atlantic has become the first airline in the world to launch an app within ChatGPT, opening up a new way for customers to discover and plan their next trip simply by asking. Building on Virgin Atlantic’s AI-powered Concierge, the Virgin Atlantic app in ChatGPT allows customers to search for flights using everyday language, whether they’re dreaming of a beachside escape to sun-soaked Barbados, planning a last-minute trip to the bright lights of New York, or looking to soak up the vibrant energy of Delhi.
Korean Air unveils flagship Incheon First and Prestige Class lounges
Korean Air has officially completed a comprehensive 42-month infrastructure overhaul of its lounges at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2 with the unveiling of its renovated flagship First and Prestige Class West Lounges, opening April 17 and 16, respectively. Following a KRW 110 billion investment, the airline has successfully modernized its entire lounge network at Incheon. The expansion more than doubles the airline's total lounge capacity at the terminal, preparing for increased passenger volumes ahead of its planned integration with Asiana Airlines.
25 years in Argentina: Delta’s journey of connection and commitment
Delta Air Lines is celebrating 25 years of operations in Argentina, marking a milestone that reflects the airline’s long-standing commitment to the country and its role in connecting Argentina with the United States and the world. Since launching service in 2000, Delta has grown alongside Argentina’s aviation market, supporting cultural exchange, tourism and business ties while building long-term partnerships and local teams that continue to shape the airline’s presence today.
easyJet holidays awarded Good Housekeeping Institute Reader Recommended status Customer Experience
Tour operator easyJet holidays has once again been recognised for delivering outstanding customer experience, earning the prestigious Good Housekeeping Institute Reader recommended endorsement for the second year running. The accolade is based on direct feedback from Good Housekeeping readers, who rated their experience across every stage of the journey when booking and travelling on an easyJet holidays package.