Airlines News Page 87
Aer Lingus Unveils Major Mobile App Upgrade
Aer Lingus has unveiled a major refresh of its mobile app, as part of an extensive upgrade programme designed to transform the digital travel experience for its customers. This multi-million euro app investment is a key milestone in the airline’s broader digital vision to become a leader in customer-centric travel innovation.
Ethiopian Airlines Group Unveils a Global Standard Airport in Wollo Kombolcha
Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest airline group in Africa, unveils a global standard airport in Wollo Kombolcha, north-central part of Ethiopia. The newly enhanced airport facility which includes Passenger Terminal building, VIP Terminal, and Support facility buildings received a grand inauguration in the presence of H.E Arega Kebede, President of the Amhara Regional State, higher government officials, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew, and Ethiopian Airlines executives
British Airways announces Avios-Only flights to Cape Town over the peak festive period
Cape Town is the latest British Airways long-haul Avios-Only flight destination This popular route will be made available for customers using their Avios over the festive period Since the launch of Avios-Only flights, the airline has offered its Members 34 flights to 15 destinations The Avios-Only flight to Cape Town marks the release of the airline’s 7,500th Avios-Only seat
New James Beard Foundation creations of summer land at Flagship lounges
The final tastes of summer have arrived, and they’re making a bold entrance at American Airlines Flagship® lounges starting the first week of August. As part of American’s continued partnership with the James Beard Foundation®, this late-summer lineup brings bright flavors and bold creativity with globally inspired dishes that spotlight seasonal produce and chef-driven creativity. From tangy, citrus-glazed vegetables to a whimsical bao bar and refreshing salads packed with crunch, this final summer installment brings together texture, flavor and a sense of place, all before takeoff.
easyJet appoints new UK Country Manager
easyJet has appointed Kevin Doyle as its UK Country Manager. He will be instrumental in delivering easyJet’s strategic direction and commercial success in the UK. As the UK’s largest airline, easyJet bases 183 aircraft and employs around 14,000 people at 10 bases across the UK. The airline will also open 11th UK base opening next spring at Newcastle International Airport.
QANTAS FREQUENT FLYER RELEASES 400,000 MORE REWARD SEATS
Qantas Frequent Flyer is clearing the runway for its members, releasing 400,000 new Classic Reward seats across its international and domestic network. The majority of these seats will be on dedicated Points Planes, where every seat across all cabins can be secured with points. Available to book for the next five days will be Points Planes and thousands of premium cabin seats to flagship destinations such as Paris in November 2025, Los Angeles in February 2026 and Tokyo in May/June 2026. Widespread availability has also been released to Australian hotspots including Hamilton Island and Cairns for travel next year.
IATA Launches 2024 World Air Transport Statistics Report
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released the latest edition of the World Air Transport Statistics (WATS) with comprehensive statistical data for 2024. Updated annually with data from over 240 international airlines, the WATS database provides a complete overview of airline metrics related to demand, supply, and performance. The report includes a detailed breakdown of scheduled passenger and cargo traffic demand, scheduled passenger and cargo capacity, overview of the global airline fleet, and top airport pairs.
Garuda Indonesia and Singapore Airlines Deepen Commercial Cooperation
Garuda Indonesia and Singapore Airlines (SIA) will strengthen their long-standing commercial cooperation in August 2025, with the launch of joint sales of fare products, additional codeshare destinations, and reciprocal lounge access. From August 2025, customers will be able to book flights operated by both airlines for services between Singapore and Indonesia1 within a single itinerary, offering greater convenience, and a wider range of fare options for travellers.
Emirates to add fourth daily flight to London Gatwick
Emirates is set to introduce a fourth daily flight between Dubai and London Gatwick from 8 February 2026. Flight EK069/070 will be operated by the airline’s newest aircraft, the Airbus A350, offering customers the opportunity to experience its latest generation interiors, including Business Class and Premium Economy.
BLUE ISLANDS LAUNCHES FESTIVE FLIGHTS TO BRUGES
Channel Islanders can look forward to a magical festive escape to Bruges this December as Blue Islands announces special direct flights from Guernsey and Jersey to Ostend, with seamless coach transfers included to the heart of Bruges for an enchanting Christmas getaway. With day return, two night and three night stay options, these flights direct from Guernsey and Jersey offer the perfect opportunity for a short winter break filled with festive cheer. Explore Bruges’ famous Christmas markets, sip mulled wine beneath the twinkling lights of the medieval square, and discover the city’s cobbled streets lined with seasonal treats and boutique shops.
Qatar Airways Partners with Academy Award-Winning Composer Hans Zimmer for a Signature Symphony
Qatar Airways has unveiled an iconic partnership with the multiple Oscar and Grammy award-winning composer Hans Zimmer to create a new sonic identity for the airline, featuring a signature sound that will elevate the passenger experience onboard and beyond. The exclusive score will be featured across Qatar Airways’ onboard music and will also be released as a full musical album on major streaming platforms and the airline’s official channels. This collaboration with the world-renowned composer reflects Qatar Airways’ commitment to delivering memorable and emotionally resonant journeys.
Aurora 360 Flight Returns to the Yukon Skies
One of the Yukon’s most extraordinary Northern Lights experiences is making its long-awaited return. After a six-year absence, the Aurora 360 Flight will take to the skies once again in February 2026, offering travellers a rare chance to witness the aurora borealis at 30,000ft aboard a private Air North aircraft, and the unique opportunity to see nature’s great phenomenon in all its celestial splendor.