Airlines News Page 88
Emirates launches Aircrafted KIDS initiative in MENA, donating 800 bags in Egypt
Emirates has launched its Aircrafted KIDS initiative in Middle East and North Africa, donating 800 bags to two non-profit organisations in Egypt. The initiative was born from the understanding that while education is one of the greatest engines for societal development and economic empowerment, access to resources is a barrier for children and young people. To help address this, Emirates launched an initiative to donate essential supplies and limited-edition, handcrafted backpacks from its ‘Aircrafted by Emirates’ collection to organisations across Africa and West Asia, and now in the MENA region.
Qatar Airways Unveils Global Winter Schedule, Increasing Flights to Over 15 Destinations
Qatar Airways has introduced increased flights to over 15 global destinations for this year’s winter season. The airline is facilitating demand for its services for travellers from all around the globe and continues to offer greater choice and connectivity through its Doha hub, the award-winning Hamad International Airport.
Emirates lands in Hangzhou, expanding its Chinese mainland network to five gateways
Emirates has officially launched its new daily service to Hangzhou, marking its fifth gateway in the Chinese mainland and the second new destination added in under a month, following Shenzhen. Flight EK310 landed at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport on 30 July to a warm welcome from local dignitaries, airport officials, and a ceremonial water cannon salute. Passengers on the inaugural flight from Dubai were treated to commemorative keepsakes including keychains, certificates, and Chinese tea tasting sets to mark the occasion. The inaugural flight carried passengers from across Emirates’ global network, including key markets like the UAE, Nigeria, Italy, Spain, Saudi Arabia and Brazil, as well as a VIP delegation led by Emirates’ senior management, and members of the international media.
Etihad Airways Defines Luxury Again With First A321LR Flight To Phuket
Etihad Airways has launched the first commercial flight of its all-new A321LR, defining luxury travel on a narrowbody aircraft. Flight EY414 departed Zayed International Airport for Phuket today, marking the introduction of an aircraft designed to deliver Etihad’s premium cabin standards on short and medium-haul sectors.
Northern Jet Celebrates 30th Anniversary
In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Northern Jet is proud to announce new, simplified fractional ownership pricing for its most in-demand aircraft: the Challenger 300 & CJ3+. This anniversary offering makes it easier than ever to access the efficiency, flexibility, and performance of private aviation—just in time for the return of 100% Bonus Depreciation in 2025.
Etihad Airways accelerates growth with record aircraft deliveries
Etihad Airways achieved a significant milestone in its fleet expansion programme with July 2025 becoming the busiest month for aircraft deliveries in the airline’s 22-year history. Throughout July, Etihad took delivery of five aircraft including its inaugural A321LR, two Boeing 787 Dreamliners, one Airbus A350-1000, and one Airbus A320ceo.
Etihad Airways and Azul Brazilian Airlines Launch Loyalty Partnership
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and Azul Brazilian Airlines have launched a frequent flyer partnership agreement. The agreement enables members of both Etihad Guest and the Azul Fidelidade programme to earn and redeem their respective loyalty currency on either carrier. Etihad Guest members can redeem their miles on flights, worldwide hotel stays and holidays, or shop from a variety of products from the Etihad Guest Reward Shop. Azul Fidelidade member miles can be spent on hotel stays, car rentals, products and services at Azul Fidelidade Shopping.
Austrian Airlines and Miles & More enter into new partnership with “Erste Bank und Sparkasse”
Austrian Airlines, Austria’s largest airline and part of the Lufthansa Group, and Miles & More, the Lufthansa Group’s loyalty programme, are launching a change to their credit card portfolio in Austria. “Erste Bank und Sparkasse”, one of the largest banking groups in Austria, won the tender. At the beginning of 2026, Austrian Miles & More credit cards will be issued in combination with George, the multi-award-winning internet banking platform. Mastercard will remain on board as the payment service provider.
American Airlines expands Premium Economy service to New York-Los Angeles route
For travelers looking for extra comfort when traveling between New York and Los Angeles, American Airlines will begin offering Premium Economy service on the transcontinental route in October. “We are excited to provide customers the opportunity to experience our Premium Economy service on our premier domestic route,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “With the domestic debut of Premium Economy, customers will enjoy a more comfortable seat, enhanced amenities and elevated dining with hot entree choices when traveling coast-to-coast.”
Lufthansa, Fraport, and zeroG drive innovation at Frankfurt Airport
Lufthansa and Fraport AG have signed an agreement to further optimize aircraft handling at Frankfurt Airport. Together with Lufthansa subsidiary zeroG, the partners are introducing the innovative AI-based camera solution “seer”. The goal is to use real-time data to make the turnaround process– i.e., the procedures involved in aircraft handling – more transparent, punctual, and efficient.
Korean Air celebrates 30 years of service to Washington, D.C.
Korean Air celebrated the 30th anniversary of its Washington, D.C. route with a special event at Dulles International Airport on July 25. To commemorate the milestone, the airline awarded a complimentary round-trip ticket from Washington D.C. to Seoul Incheon to the 30th passenger checking in for flight KE094. All passengers on the flight received special anniversary gifts, including limited-edition travel pouches.
South African Airways (SAA) will inaugurate its first direct service between Cape Town and Mauritius
South African Airways (SAA) will inaugurate its first direct service between Cape Town and Mauritius on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, marking a strategic expansion of its network and enhancing connectivity for travelers in the Western Cape. This milestone underscores SAA’s continued commitment to connectivity, customer choice, and strategic growth.