The aviation industry is witnessing a significant surge in the Middle East, with major carriers announcing ambitious expansion plans. Turkish Airlines aims to expand its fleet to 500 aircraft by 2025, while Emirates is adding three new destinations in Asia, and Qatar Airways is preparing to place a substantial order for wide-body jets. Meanwhile, other regional players like flydubai, SalamAir, and Jazeera Airways are also enhancing their services and routes, setting the stage for a new era of growth and connectivity in the region.

Emirates and Trip.com enhance partnership to boost global travel offerings

Emirates has strengthened its collaboration with Trip.com Group to expand the OTA’s global presence through strategic partnerships and activations. This enhanced cooperation aims to provide travellers with more customised options and easier bookings, allowing them to create unique trips that suit their preferences. The partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to leveraging data insights and technology to optimise user experiences and drive engagement. This development builds upon their initial agreement signed in 2020, which focused on joint marketing promotions and exploring loyalty programme collaborations.

Qatar Airways introduces off-airport check-in for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, resumes flights to Syria

Qatar Airways has launched an off-airport check-in service in Makkah for Hajj and Umrah passengers, allowing them to complete check-in formalities and have their baggage collected directly from the city. This service aims to streamline the departure process and reduce waiting times at the airport. Additionally, the carrier has resumed flights to Damascus, Syria, after a 13-year hiatus, marking a significant step towards re-establishing international connections with Syria and supporting the country’s reconstruction and stabilisation efforts.

Turkish Airlines takes off in new directions

Turkish Airlines is set to soar to new heights with the announcement of its latest route to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, starting 10 December 2025. The airline will operate three weekly flights from Istanbul, transiting via Bangkok, marking a significant milestone as Cambodia becomes the seventh Southeast Asian country in the airline’s network. This expansion not only bolsters the carrier’s presence in the region (11 cities served in the rgion), but also cements its position as the sole European carrier offering direct flights to Phnom Penh.

Manwhile, despite a setback in Canada, where the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) rejected its request for additional weekly flights, Turkish Airlines has reason to celebrate. The airline secured the third position worldwide in 2024 for international passenger capacity and cargo market share, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Turkish Cargo achieved a 5.7% global market share, reflecting significant growth and underscoring Turkish Airlines’ expanding influence in the global aviation sector.

Saudi Air Connectivity Program introduces direct Stuttgart-Jeddah flights

The Saudi Air Connectivity Program has announced the launch of direct flights between Stuttgart, Germany, and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, commencing in the second half of 2025. Operating twice weekly using Airbus A321neo aircraft and accommodating 224 passengers per flight, the new route is expected to facilitate increased travel and economic exchange, providing a direct link for travellers between southern Germany and the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund to invest $100 million in AirAsia

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) plans to invest $100 million in Malaysia’s budget airline, AirAsia, owned by Capital A. This investment forms a significant portion of AirAsia’s fundraising target of approximately 1 billion ringgit (US$226 million). The airline is also in discussions with potential investors from Singapore and Japan. AirAsia is offering up to a 15% stake at a $2 billion valuation to fuel growth following pandemic-induced losses. Capital A anticipates returning to profitability this year after a loss in 2024 due to a one-off charge in its aviation business. The company plans to consolidate operations by merging its budget carrier with AirAsia X Bhd under a single brand. This investment aligns with PIF’s strategy to diversify its portfolio and strengthen ties with Southeast Asia’s aviation sector.

Sharjah Airport showcases advancements at ITB Berlin 2025

Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) highlighted its commitment to transforming airport experiences through technology and digital transformation at ITB Berlin 2025. The participation aimed to establish connections with international companies, expand the airport’s network, and discuss the ongoing passenger terminal expansion project, which will increase capacity to 20 million passengers by 2025. Sharjah Airport Travel Agency (SATA) also attended to explore new collaboration opportunities.

Flyadeal introduces six new summer destinations for 2025

flyadeal has announced its summer 2025 expansion, adding Salalah (Oman) and reintroducing flights to Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt), Trabzon (Turkey), Baku (Azerbaijan), Tbilisi (Georgia), and Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina). Services will start from 19 June 2025, operating from Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam over a 10-week period. Flights will be serviced by the carrier’s Airbus A320 fleet.

Pegasus Airlines wins award for youngest fleet

Pegasus Airlines has been awarded the World’s 2nd Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award 2025 by ch-aviation, recognising its modern and efficient fleet. With an average age of just 4.5 years, Pegasus continues to invest in next-generation aircraft, including orders with Airbus and Boeing, to support its growing network and achieve its sustainability and net-zero targets by 2050.

Tajikistan collaborates with Gulf Air to establish direct flights to Bahrain

Tajikistan’s Ambassador to Bahrain, Karimi Akram, announced that the country is working with Gulf Air to establish direct tourism flights between Tajikistan and Bahrain. Currently, there are no direct flights between Bahrain and Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s capital. The collaboration with Gulf Air seeks to address this gap, facilitating easier travel for tourists and strengthening bilateral relations. Details regarding the launch date and flight schedules have yet to be announced.

EgyptAir forges new tourism partnerships at ITB Berlin 2025

EgyptAir announced several strategic partnerships to bolster tourism between Egypt and Germany at ITB Berlin 2025. Collaborations with leading German tour operators aim to increase flight frequencies and introduce new routes connecting major German cities to Egyptian tourist destinations. The airline also plans to enhance services tailored to German travellers, including German-language support and customised in-flight offerings. The anticipated full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum on 3 July 2025 is expected to further boost tourism interest.

Earlier this week…

Turkish Airlines embarks on ambitious expansion plan

Turkish Airlines is set to expand its fleet to 500 aircraft by September 2025, with a long-term goal of reaching 813 aircraft by 2033, coinciding with the airline’s centennial anniversary. The airline has consistently grown its fleet, from 100 aircraft in 2006 to 400 in 2023. As of 2024, Turkish Airlines operates flights to 352 destinations across 131 countries, generating $22.7 billion in revenue, an 8% increase from the previous year.

The airline is also enhancing its services, increasing flight frequencies between Seoul and Istanbul to cater to Korean travellers seeking connections to Europe. In addition, the carrier will launch a new route connecting Istanbul, Bangkok, and Phnom Penh, expanding its Southeast Asian network and positioning itself as the sole European carrier serving Phnom Penh. .

Emirates expands global network with new destinations in Asia

Emirates has announced the addition of three new destinations to its global network: Shenzhen in China, Da Nang in Vietnam, and Siem Reap in Cambodia. Daily non-stop flights to Shenzhen will commence on 1 July 2025, marking the airline’s fourth gateway into mainland China. Services to Da Nang are set to begin on 2 June 2025, operating four times weekly via Bangkok, establishing it as Emirates’ third destination in Vietnam. Flights to Siem Reap will start on 3 June 2025, with three weekly services also routed through Bangkok, making it the airline’s second point in Cambodia. These additions will expand Emirates’ reach in East Asia, offering 269 weekly flights to 24 destinations. Full story here.

Qatar Airways plans major wide-body aircraft order

Qatar Airways is preparing to place a substantial order for wide-body jets to bolster its long-term expansion plans. According to a Reuters report, Chief Commercial Officer Thierry Antinori announced that the airline’s CEO is finalising a request for proposal (RFP) with aircraft manufacturers, with the contract expected to be revealed soon. While Antinori did not specify whether the order would be with Airbus, Boeing, or a combination of both, he emphasised the airline’s commitment to maintaining a robust and modern fleet. This development follows previous indications from CEO Badr al Meer at the Farnborough Airshow in July 2024 about considering a large aircraft order. Meanwhile, the carrier has also announced increasing their Doha-Berlin flights to 3x daily from July 2025.

Oman Air partners with TUI

Oman Air has teamed up with TUI to offer customers a hassle-free way to book holiday packages alongside their flights. The partnership introduces a new digital platform, allowing travellers to access a wide range of holiday experiences across Oman Air’s network with just a few clicks. The platform enables bookings to more than 22 destinations, combining flights, hotels, and more.

Air Cairo opens new office at Cairo International Airport

Air Cairo has inaugurated a new office at Cairo International Airport, aiming to enhance its operational efficiency and passenger services, while also strengthening its presence in key markets to improve customer accessibility. The new office is expected to streamline various administrative and operational processes, contributing to a more seamless travel experience for passengers. Air Cairo continues to expand its domestic and international routes, supporting Egypt’s tourism sector and economic development. The airline’s efforts are in line with the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s goal to attract 30 million tourists by 2028.

Saudi Arabia launches 70 e-gates at Jeddah airport

Saudi Arabia has introduced 70 AI-powered e-gates at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport to enhance efficiency and security screenings. These e-gates are designed to reduce passenger wait times, allowing up to 175,000 travellers to pass through daily. The implementation of this technology aims to not only improve the overall passenger experience and streamline airport operation, but modernise the airport’s transportation infrastructure in line with Vision 2030. ​

flydubai launches flights to three Iranian cities

flydubai has announced the launch of direct flights to three new destinations in Iran: Bushehr and Tabriz from 13 March 2025, and Qeshm from 14 March 2025. This expansion increases the airline’s network to more than 130 destinations across 55 countries, aligning with its commitment to connect underserved markets to Dubai’s aviation hub. The new services will operate from Terminal 2 at Dubai International Airport. The introduction of these routes underscores flydubai’s strategy to provide more travel options and strengthen economic and cultural ties between the UAE and Iran.

Salamair expands fleet and routes to boost Oman’s tourism

SalamAir plans to increase its fleet from 13 Airbus aircraft to 25 by 2028, aiming to transport 8.5 million passengers annually within three years. This expansion aligns with Oman Vision 2040, focusing on enhancing the nation’s tourism sector. In 2024, SalamAir carried 3.2 million passengers and targets 4.2 million in 2025. The airline will introduce two new aircraft in 2025, bringing its total to 15. Over the next 12 months, SalamAir intends to add seven destinations, including routes to East Africa. Established in 2017, the airline currently operates in six domestic locations and 37 cities across 18 countries.

flynas secures $132M financing for Airbus A320neo aircraft

flynas has secured a $132M Murabaha financing agreement with Bank Aljazira to acquire three Airbus A320neo aircraft. This move supports flynas’ strategic plan to expand its fleet to 280 aircraft by 2030, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.

Jazeera Airways launches March Mega Sale

Jazeera Airways has unveiled its March Mega Sale, offering one-way fares starting from KD 14 (USD 45), available for booking between 2 and 4 March 2025. The promotion includes up to 10% discounts on pre-order meals and excess baggage fees, applicable for travel until 25 March 2025.

Falcon plans $100M investment to upgrade Al Maktoum International Airport facilities​

Falcon, a leading aviation service provider, has announced plans to invest approximately $100M over the next five years to upgrade its facilities at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. The investment includes the establishment of a new private jet terminal. The company’s 13,705-square-metre maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility, located at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, is equipped to service a wide range of aircraft, including the Airbus A380. By 2030, with the planned upgrades, Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to become the world’s busiest hub, accommodating up to 260 million passengers.

IATA’s Walsh anticipates airlines reassessing 2050 net-zero emissions goal

Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), has indicated that airlines may need to reconsider their commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Speaking at the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT) Americas conference in Phoenix on 3 March 2025, Walsh expressed concerns over the slower-than-expected progress in the production and adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). He noted that some airlines might find the 2050 target unachievable, leading to a fragmented industry stance on emissions goals. Walsh described the European Union’s environmental policies as overly aggressive and economically disconnected, potentially harming competitiveness. He also expressed scepticism about the introduction of hydrogen-powered narrowbody aircraft by 2035, suggesting that significant technological advancements before 2050 are unlikely.