Top 3 Headlines
Emirates boosts capacity, sharpens sustainability focus and renews elite sports sponsorship
Emirates has further strengthened its global network by adding four additional weekly flights between Dubai and Manila, responding to sustained demand across leisure, VFR and business travel markets. At the same time, the airline continues to advance its sustainability and wellness agenda by expanding the availability of minimally processed vegan cuisine across its onboard offering. Rounding out the update, Emirates has renewed its high-profile naming-rights sponsorship of Emirates Team New Zealand ahead of the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, reinforcing the brand’s long-standing association with elite international sport.
Saudia unveils new Dreamliner livery as partnerships and air links expand
Saudia has revealed a refreshed livery on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, signalling the next phase of the carrier’s evolving brand identity as it supports Saudi Arabia’s broader aviation and tourism ambitions. The airline has also announced a new codeshare partnership with Air India, opening up enhanced connectivity between the Kingdom, the Indian subcontinent and beyond. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia and Russia have confirmed plans to increase the number of flights between the two countries in 2026, reflecting growing bilateral travel demand and strengthening air links between the two markets.
Etihad strengthens partnerships and distribution reach
Etihad Airways has expanded its international partnership footprint with the announcement of a new commercial agreement with Tunisair, aimed at improving connectivity between Abu Dhabi and key destinations across North Africa. In parallel, the UAE national carrier has confirmed that its full New Distribution Capability (NDC) content is now available on Travelport+ in the United Arab Emirates, providing travel sellers with richer content, improved servicing capabilities and greater access to Etihad’s fare and ancillary products.
Noteworthy:
- Saudia reported welcoming 27 million visitors through 2025, underlining the airline’s central role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism ambitions.
- flynas has taken delivery of its latest Airbus A320neo, continuing fleet expansion to support network growth and efficiency gains.
- Royal Air Maroc has launched its first ever direct service between Saint Petersburg and Casablanca, strengthening links between Russia and North Africa.
- EgyptAir has outlined several network updates for 2026, including the resumption of Alexandria – Kuwait services, a temporary suspension of Cairo – Jakarta flights, and increased frequencies on the Cairo – Delhi route.
- Air Arabia has launched an international pilot recruitment drive for 2026, targeting Airbus A320 pilots in Argentina and Chile as it prepares for future fleet and network expansion.
