Airlines News Page 34
Etihad Airways Launches First Service to Charlotte with State-of-the-Art A350
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has begun scheduled operations to North Carolina, with its inaugural flight arriving at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) earlier this month, operated by the airline’s modern Airbus A350-1000. The new service connects the Charlotte region and communities throughout North Carolina and the broader Southeast to Etihad’s global network, supporting both passenger and freight connectivity and providing access to key destinations across India and Asia.
Qatar Airways Continues to Restore Flight Network
Qatar Airways has published its latest revised schedule, reflecting the gradual increase in flights to and from Doha. The latest update, valid until 15 April 2026, provides additional frequencies to more than 90 destinations across Qatar Airways’ global network. All flights to and from Doha continue to operate through dedicated flight corridors. These routes are established in close coordination with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.
Air Premia Expands Americas-Southeast Asia Connectivity
Air Premia, Korea’s only hybrid service carrier, announced that it has entered an interline partnership with Thailand’s national flag carrier, Thai Airways, with joint transportation services set to commence on March 30.
SriLankan Airlines Records Revenue Increase with AI and ML-Powered Revenue Management System
SriLankan Airlines has recorded a revenue increase following the implementation of a next-generation, AI and Machine-Learning (ML) powered Origin and Destination (O&D) revenue management platform. The system enables dynamic pricing and smarter inventory optimisation, while delivering a superior passenger experience across all sales channels through real-time seat availability and predictive analytics.
Marriott Bonvoy Partners with Ethiopian Airlines, Taking Member Travel Benefits to New Heights
Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel programme and Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline and a Star Alliance member, today announced a partnership that gives travellers more opportunities to earn and redeem points and miles across both hotel stays and flights. Starting today, eligible members of Marriott Bonvoy and ShebaMiles, Ethiopian Airlines’ loyalty programme, can convert ShebaMiles into Marriott Bonvoy points for hotel stays, upgrades and more, as well as Marriott Bonvoy points to ShebaMiles to book flights. Members can also choose whether to earn Marriott Bonvoy points or ShebaMiles when staying at properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
Aeromexico returns to Quito with four weekly flights
Aeromexico resumed its flights between Mexico City and Quito with the arrival last night of its Boeing 737 MAX 8, which will operate four weekly flights. The return flight departed this morning at 10:30 a.m., following a brief ceremony attended by Ramón Miró, President and CEO of Quiport, and Pepe Zapata, Vice President of Sales for North and Latin America at Aeromexico.
Wizz Air Launches Integrated Digital Cabin Ecosystem with Immfly and gateretail
Wizz Air, the fastest growing European airline, has launched a new digital cabin ecosystem in partnership with Immfly and gateretail, bringing onboard retail, passenger and crew connectivity and operational data into a single integrated platform. The initiative marks another step forward in Wizz Air’s digital strategy, underlining the airline’s position as one of aviation’s most innovative airlines. The collaboration will enable the airline to deliver a more efficient and engaging experience for passengers, while introducing limited connectivity.
Flakes on a Plane
To celebrate the opening of their new base at Newcastle, easyJet and easyJet holidays have teamed up with Geordie institution Greggs to take sausage rolls to the air as they launch limited-edition Sausage Roll dipping sauces. The weird and wonderful flavours, inspired by new easyJet holiday destinations include a spin on the French classic Tarte Tatin, an original twist on the much-loved Spanish Sangria as well as a Kebab-inspired flavour that delivers a taste of Turkey.
Introducing the United Relax Row: Economy Seats that Transform into a Couch
United Airlines today announced the United Relax RowSM: a set of United Economy seats that can transform into a couch, creating a more comfortable option for customers traveling in the United Economy cabin on long-haul flights. United is the first North American airline to offer this kind of seating option and holds North American exclusivity on the design.
United to Add 250+ Planes in Next Two Years – Most by Any Airline
United Airlines today announced the next phase of its long-term plan to win brand loyal customers and further differentiate itself from competitors. The airline expects to take delivery of more than 250 new aircraft by April 2028 – the most by any airline in a two-year period – to further modernize its fleet, add new aircraft variants, create a new experience for transcontinental travelers and introduce new onboard products for every customer, reinforcing United’s position as a leading premium airline.
Madeira Strengthens UK Connectivity for Summer 2026
Madeira is set to strengthen connectivity from the UK for the summer season*, with increased frequency on both London and some regional routes. London will remain a key getaway to Madeira, with a consistent schedule of 31 weekly flights operating across the capital’s airports throughout the summer season, up from an average of 28 weekly flights last summer. The Bournemouth service, which launched last summer, returns for the summer season, and Bristol will benefit from increased frequency, rising from four to five flights per week, offering improved flexibility for travellers from the South West.
Relax, Reset, Ready to Fly: Virgin Atlantic reveals revamped Heathrow Clubhouse
Virgin Atlantic is delighted to unveil its refreshed Clubhouse at London Heathrow following the first phase of a redesign and refurbishment. Enhancing the experience on the ground for Upper Class customers the new space offers a new cinema area, work pods, a new Royal Box VIP area and a refreshed Gallery space bringing together elevated comfort, modern style and a sense of calm before you fly. For guests seeking a moment of wellbeing before take-off, two luxurious new pop-up wellness experiences have arrived in the Clubhouse. Three self-guided Somadomes offer immersive meditation designed to calm and reset, while a new partnership with Secret Spa introduces a curated menu of dreamy treatments. Together, they create the perfect opportunity to relax, refresh and feel ready to fly.