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Weekly Round-upsAviation Weekly Roundup

Aviation Round-up: 11 January

aviation

After an absolute cracker of a year in 2024, the Middle Eastern aviation industry has wasted no time at all ensuring 2025 starts off powerful with new routes, partnerships and offers. Here’s a quick look:

Turkish Airlines introduces dedicated pet lounge at Istanbul Airport

Pet Lounge at Istanbul Airport – Image courtesy of Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines has opened a 250-square-metre ‘Pet Lounge’ at Istanbul Airport to enhance the travel experience for passengers with pets. The facility accommodates up to 78 animals simultaneously, including 32 dogs, 36 cats, and 10 birds, and features an outdoor terrace. Pets under 8 kg (including carrier) are permitted in the cabin, with carrier dimensions not exceeding in cm 23 h x 30 w x 40 l; larger pets are transported in the aircraft’s cargo hold. The lounge offers full-time veterinary services to ensure pet well-being.

Meanwhile, the airline has reportedly carried 83.4 million passengers in 2024, marking a 2.1% increase from 2023, with 31.7 million being international travellers.

Emirates Aviation University honours 288 emerging aviation leaders

EAU graduates – Image courtesy of Emirates Airlines

Emirates Aviation University (EAU) has celebrated a major milestone with the graduation of 288 students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, marking its 34th graduation ceremony. The ceremony, held at the EAU campus in Dubai, showcased the university’s commitment to shaping the next generation of aviation leaders, with graduates specializing in fields like aviation management, aeronautical engineering, and aviation security. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chancellor of EAU, awarded the degrees, highlighting the university’s dedication to excellence and innovation.

flydubai to resume flights at Bhairahawa airport from 15 January

Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) – Image courtesy of of GBIA.

flydubai, the UAE-based airline, is set to resume operations at Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) in Bhairahawa on 15 January. The airline had temporarily suspended its flights from the airport on 15 December 2024, due to disruptions caused by thick fog. Regular flights are expected to recommence fully from mid-January. Several airlines, including flydubai, had initially launched flights at GBIA but paused operations as winter conditions set in. The resumption of the carrier’s services is anticipated to enhance connectivity and support the airport’s operational goals.

Aviation experts to address industry challenges at MRO Middle East 2025

Image courtesy of MRO Middle East

Dubai will host the largest edition of MRO Middle East and Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) from 10 -11 February, featuring more than 250 exhibitors and 80 speakers. Key discussions will cover digitalisation, sustainability, supply chain solutions, and enhancing passenger experiences. Notable speakers include leaders from Lufthansa Technik Middle East, Saudia Technic, and Gulf Air. The event is free to attend, and provides networking and insights into aviation maintenance, repair, and interior advancements at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Earlier this week…

UAE carriers soar past pre-pandemic capacity

Image courtesy of Etihad

Let’s kick off this year with a round of applause for UAE airlines for exceeding their pre-pandemic capacity. Cumulatively, 87.1 million seats were offered, surpassing 2019 levels by 15%, reflecting the nation’s robust recovery in the aviation sector. Leading airlines made some buzz over the year as well. While Emirates Airlines received multiple accolades, including four awards at the 2024 World Travel Awards and the title of ‘Best Airline in the World’ at the Ultras Awards 2024; Etihad Airways was recognised for its exceptional services, earning awards for Best Economy Class, Best In-Flight Entertainment, and Best First Class Lounge. The UAE has also demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, launching initiatives such as the expansion of sustainable aviation fuel usage and the world’s largest rooftop solar panel installation at Dubai Airports.

Arabian Travel Market 2025 to focus on aviation sector growth

Image courtesy of ATM

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, taking place from 28 April to 1 May 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will focus on “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.” The event will explore key topics such as sustainable aviation fuel, technological innovations like AI, and the resurgence of corporate travel. With the aviation sector projected to surpass $1 trillion in revenue and reach 5.2 billion travelers in 2025, ATM will provide a platform for industry leaders to discuss the latest trends and opportunities.

ATM 2025 will delve into sustainable aviation, with a focus on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, which has doubled in 2024 to 1 million tonnes. Regional airlines like Emirates and Etihad have already begun utilising SAF to reduce CO2 emissions. The event will also explore technological innovations, business travel trends, and the growing demand for airport entertainment, luxury, and relaxation amenities catering to modern travelers.

Emirates resumes A380 service to Copenhagen, celebrates inaugural A350 flight to Edinburgh, is on track to receive autism certification, reveals new livery

aviation
Image courtesy of Emirates Airlines

Emirates marked the new year with significant milestones, including the reintroduction of its A380 service to Denmark on 2 January. This daily flight offers 615 seats and is currently the only international airline operating the A380 to Denmark. Two days later, the airline launched its first Airbus A350 into commercial service, with an inaugural flight from Dubai to Edinburgh. The A350 features next-generation cabin designs and enhanced passenger comfort, with a three-class layout accommodating 312 passengers.

Meanwhile, the carrier continues to prioritise inclusivity and customer support, aiming to become the world’s first airline to receive autism certification. This initiative demonstrates the airline’s commitment to improving accessibility and catering to diverse customer needs. Finally, Emirates has unveiled a special livery featuring Real Madrid’s branding on one of its Boeing 777 aircraft, highlighting the airline’s strong partnership with the football club.

Dubai International Airport anticipates record-breaking January traffic

DXB – Image courtesy of Dubai Airports

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is projected to welcome 4.3 million passengers during the first 15 days of January 2025, marking its busiest start to the year. Daily passenger numbers peaked at over 311,000 on 3 January. The airport’s average daily footfall during this period reached 287,000, reflecting an 8% increase from 2024 and 6% above pre-pandemic levels. This growth is driven by a post-holiday surge of international departures and returning residents. DXB’s ability to handle such high volumes underscores its operational efficiency and status as the world’s leading airport for international travel. The airport continues to set global benchmarks for seamless connectivity and exceptional passenger experiences.

Etihad Airways opens dedicated US Preclearance Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport, becomes official global airline partner of Badminton World Federation

Image courtesy of Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways has opened a dedicated US Pre-clearance Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport, allowing US-bound travellers to complete immigration and customs procedures before departure, streamlining their arrival in the United States.

The airline has also been announced as the official global airline partner of the Badminton World Federation (BWF), committing to providing air travel services for BWF events, facilitating the movement of athletes, officials, and equipment worldwide. The collaboration aims to promote badminton globally and strengthen ties between the airline and the sporting community. Etihad continues to expand its portfolio of sports partnerships, reinforcing its brand presence on the international stage.

Saudia achieves global leadership in on-time performance for 2024

Image courtesy of Saudia Airlines
Image courtesy of Saudia Airlines

Saudia has been recognised for its exceptional on-time performance (OTP) in 2024, ranking first globally in OTP during the months of June, July, and November in 2024, according to reports by Cirium. This achievement highlights the carrier’s commitment to operational efficiency and enhancing the travel experience across all service touchpoints. The airline operates over 530 daily flights, connecting more than 100 destinations across four continents with a modern fleet of 144 aircraft. Saudia continues to leverage advanced technologies and predictive digital systems powered by artificial intelligence to maintain high standards of punctuality and service quality.

Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport served more than 49M passengers in 2024

Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport – Photo by Steve Ayers/Unsplash

Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) achieved a historic milestone in 2024, serving more than 49.1 million passengers, a 14% YoY increase, marking the highest annual operational figure in the history of Saudi airports. The airport also reported a significant increase in total flights, exceeding 278,000, an 11% YoY growth. 31 December 2024 was the busiest day on record, with more than 174,600 passengers served.

Qatar Executive expands fleet with two additional Gulfstream G700 aircraft, while Qatar Airways resumes services to Abha and Damascus

Gulfstream G700 – Image courtesy of Qatar Airways

Qatar Executive, the private jet charter division of Qatar Airways Group, has added two Gulfstream G700 aircraft to its fleet, bringing its total fleet size to 24, including six G700s and 15 Gulfstream G650ERs. The G700 offers a spacious cabin, advanced technology, and long-range capabilities, enhancing the company’s luxury travel services. An additional four G700s are scheduled for delivery throughout 2025 and early 2026.

Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has resumed flights to Abha, marking its 11th destination in Saudi Arabia. Operating two weekly flights to Abha International Airpor this increases Qatar Airways’ services in the kingdom to more than 140 weekly flights, facilitating travel for more than 36,000 passengers. The airline has also resumed flights to Damascus, Syria, after a 13-year suspension, marking a significant step in reconnecting the region. Operating three weekly flights to the Syrian capital, this development follows the recent political changes in Syria and the reestablishment of diplomatic relations with several countries.

Turkish Airlines celebrates cultural heritage with ‘UNESCO TΓΌrkiye Series’ amenity kits

Image courtesy of Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines has launched the ‘UNESCO TΓΌrkiye Series’ amenity kit collection, inspired by six UNESCO World Heritage sites in Turkey: Nemrut, GΓΆbeklitepe, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Ani, and Troy. These kits are now available to Business Class passengers on flights ranging from five to eight hours, with Economy Class versions to be introduced in mid-January for flights over eight hours. Developed in collaboration with the Turkish National Commission for UNESCO, the collection aims to showcase Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. Each kit includes hand and body lotion and lip balm from luxury fragrance brand Ex Nihilo. Approximately 80% of the materials used in items such as socks, eye masks, and toothbrushes are made from recycled or sustainable sources, including biodegradable cornstarch.

Air Arabia launches new non-stop flights to Ethiopia

Air Arabia
Image courtesy of Air Arabia

Air Arabia has announced the launch of new non-stop flights connecting Sharjah International Airport to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia. The service is scheduled to commence on 10 January 2025, with three weekly flights operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Plaza Premium Group to operate six lounges at Cairo International Airport

At the MOU signing (L-R): Okan Kufeci, Senior VP Europe, Middle East and Africa, General Mohamed Kamel Moustafa, Chairman and MD of Egypt Aviation Services, and Magdy Ishak Azzer, Chairman and CEO of Cairo Airport Company – Image courtesy of Plaza Premium Group

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has entered into a strategic joint venture with Egypt Aviation Services (EAS) and Cairo Airport Company (CAC) to manage, operate, and commercialise six lounges at Cairo International Airport. The lounges, located across Terminals 1, 2, 3, and the Seasonal Terminal, will be rebranded as Plaza Premium Lounge by CAC and EAS. Additionally, a new lounge is being developed near the F Gates of Terminal 3. This partnership marks PPG’s entry into the Egyptian market and aligns with its expansion strategy in the MENA region, where it already operates lounges in Saudi Arabia, Kenya, and Abu Dhabi.

Oneworld alliance to expand with two new airline members in 2025

Oman Air
Image courtesy of Oman Air

The Oneworld global airline alliance is set to expand in 2025 with the addition of two new full members. Oman Air is scheduled to join in the second quarter, becoming the 14th full member, with an expected integration date of 30 June 2025. Following this, Fiji Airways, currently a Oneworld Connect member, is slated to transition to full membership by late 2025. These additions will no doubt enhance the alliance’s global aviation network, offering passengers increased connectivity and benefits across member airlines.

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