The aviation industry has been rather busy this week with Qatar Airways’ latest seat innovation, Emirates’ new cargo fleet, flydubai’s recruitment drive, EOS-X SPACE’s ambitious space tourism plans, Dubai International’s ranking, and Saudia’s major eVTOL aircraft deal. Plus, flydubai celebrated an important anniversary, Gulf Air announces a new facility in Bahrain, and we’ve got new sponsors announced at this year’s Air Expo.
Qatar Airways unveils next-gen QSuite, orders 20 more Boeing 777X aircraft
Qatar Airways has unveiled its ‘Qsuite Next Gen‘ at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024. This latest innovation in their business class cabins focuses on enhancing passenger privacy and comfort. The new design boasts sophisticated features, including sliding privacy doors and adaptable spaces for work, dining, and relaxation.
The redesigned Quad Suite is now equipped with movable 4K OLED Panasonic Astrova IFE screens – a first for any airline in the world. The screens can be repositioned to the side to create the largest social and productivity space in the sky for up to four passengers in the Quad Suite, and up to two passengers in the Companion Suite. The Qsuite Next Gen will be featured on-board the Qatar Airways Boeing B777-9 aircraft by 2025.
The airline has also announced an additional 20 order of the Boeing 777X aircraft.This is in addition to its existing order of 40 Boeing 777-9 commercial aircraft, bringing the total to 94 commercial and cargo of Boeing 777X aircraft.
Turkish Airlines’s new Business Suite revealed
Turkish Airlines has also unveiled its new Crystal business class at the Farnborough International Airshow. Featuring a 1-2-1 configuration, and increased privacy, other conveniences include wireless charging, universal AC power and USB Type-C ports. 22” screens and noise-cancelling headphones are also on offer and when it comes to some shuteye time, fully flat beds can be summoned at a touch of a button.
Space flights coming to Abu Dhabi from 2025
European space exploration firm EOS-X SPACE plans to initiate space tourism flights from Abu Dhabi in Q3 2025. Utilising helium-balloon-lifted capsules that will accommodate seven passengers and a pilot, tickets will start from €150,000. This initiative is part of a larger investment in space tourism infrastructure, positioning Abu Dhabi as a key player in this emerging $9 billion industry. The current engineering and development of complexes in Abu Dhabi and Seville, Spain, has exceeded $230 million for the project.
Emirates orders five Boeing 777Fs
Emirates SkyCargo has announced an order for five Boeing 777 freighters, scheduled for delivery in FY 2025-26. This strategic move worth US$1 billion is designed to expand Emirates‘ cargo capacity by 30% and meet increasing global demand. The new freighters will bolster the airline’s ability to facilitate global trade and supply chains, enhancing operational efficiency. This investment underscores Emirates’ commitment to maintaining a modern and efficient fleet, ensuring it remains competitive in the global cargo market.
Sanad sponsors Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024
Sanad, a leader in aerospace engineering and leasing solutions, will be a key sponsor at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024. Scheduled for 19-21 November, the event at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) will see Sanad showcasing its latest achievements and contributions to the aerospace industry. The expo is expected to attract 18,000 visitors and more than 250 suppliers and manufacturers.
flydubai celebrates three years in Salzburg and seeks 130 pilots
flydubai celebrated its third anniversary of its operations to Salzburg, Austria. Since launching this route, the airline has seen strong demand, carrying over 100,000 passengers on four-time weekly flights. The Salzburg route is part of flydubai’s strategy to connect Dubai with more European destinations.
The airline is enjoying significant growth, adding new destinations and increasing its fleet size to 88 Boeing 737 aircraft. To support its expansion plans, they are actively recruiting 130 experienced pilots, with the aim to add to its current workforce of more than 1,200 pilots. This recruitment drive reflects the airline’s commitment to providing safe, reliable, and efficient service to passengers as it continues growing its market presence as a low-cost carrier in the UAE.
DXB named second busiest airport
Dubai International Airport (DXB) has been ranked the second busiest airport globally by the Airports Council International (ACI). This ranking is based on passenger traffic volume, reflecting DXB’s role as a major global aviation hub. Global passenger figures have increased by 30.5% compared to 2022, with total traveller numbers nearing 8.7 billion. The report showed that the Middle East and Asia-Pacific show a strong resurgence compared to post-pandemic figures. This is likely due to DXB airport’s extensive connectivity, world-class facilities, and strategic location, contributing to its high traffic.
Saudia signs largest eVTOL aircraft deal
Saudia has signed a sales agreement with Lilium to purchase 50 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jets with the option to purchase a further 50. This deal represents the largest order for Lilium’s aircraft in MENA, marking a significant step towards sustainable aviation. The eVTOL jets are expected to revolutionise short-distance travel with their eco-friendly technology.
Gulf Air’s Bahraini MRO facility
Gulf Air has announced plans to establish a major Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bahrain. This new center will enhance Gulf Air’s operational efficiency by providing in-house maintenance capabilities. The facility aims to support the airline’s fleet and potentially serve other carriers in the region. This initiative aligns with Bahrain’s vision to become a key aviation hub in the region, fostering growth in the local aviation sector and creating job opportunities.
