Top 3 Headlines
Riyadh Air pioneers AI-native aviation
Riyadh Air has become the world’s first AI-native airline, leveraging IBM Consulting’s expertise and IBM watsonx Orchestrate to transform its operations. With AI-driven systems in place, the airline aims to revolutionise employee and passenger experiences, setting a new benchmark for innovation in aviation. This pioneering approach enables Riyadh Air to enhance employee productivity, deliver seamless customer care, and drive operational efficiency. The airline’s AI-native foundation is expected to support its ambitious growth plans, connecting millions of travellers to over 100 destinations by 2030. By embedding AI into its core, Riyadh Air is redefining the future of aviation and creating a pathway for other airlines to follow.
IATA unveils 2026 event calendar
IATA has announced its 2026 event calendar, featuring 18 industry conferences aimed at tackling the air transport industry’s key challenges. The events will focus on issues such as digitalisation, sustainability, safety, and innovation, with two new additions: the IATA World Maintenance & Engineering Symposium and Wings of Change Middle East & North Africa. These events will bring together industry and government leaders to address pressing topics, including supply chain challenges, Sustainable Aviation Fuel production, and emerging technologies like AI and machine learning.
Qatar Airways Group names Hamad Ali Al-Khater as new CEO
Qatar Airways Group has appointed Hamad Ali Al-Khater as Group Chief Executive Officer, from 7 December 2025, taking over from Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. Al-Khater has previously served as CEO at Hamad International Airport, where he oversaw operational strategy, infrastructure expansion and passenger experience. His earlier career includes senior roles at QatarEnergy, leading business development and major strategic initiatives. Announcing the appointment, Chairman Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi said the leadership transition reinforces the group’s commitment to operational reliability, innovation and global service excellence. Qatar Airways was recognised as Skytrax’s World’s Best Airline for the ninth time in 2025, and now flies to more than 170 destinations through its Doha hub.
Noteworthy
- Abu Dhabi Airports has launched TouchPoints as Zayed International Airport’s exclusive loyalty programme, letting ADCB customers earn and redeem points at over 100 outlets plus enjoy perks like preferred parking and discounted lounge access.
- Emirates is serving festive menus, treats and hot chocolate onboard and in lounges this December, alongside NBA-themed inflight dishes and live games on US/Canada routes for the Emirates NBA Cup.
- AirAsia X has launched four weekly A330 flights between Riyadh and Bangkok, strengthening direct travel between Saudi Arabia and Thailand and feeding into its broader ASEAN network.
- Etihad and Condor will begin daily Frankfurt-Abu Dhabi flights in May 2026 and Berlin-Abu Dhabi in June 2026 under a new codeshare, while Etihad has also launched a three-weekly seasonal service to Kazan.
- Qatar Executive will equip its entire Gulfstream and Bombardier fleet with Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi by early 2026, delivering low-latency connectivity for streaming, work and entertainment. The upgrade sets a new standard in aviation, bringing ground-level internet performance into the cabin.
- Jazeera Airways has marked its 20th anniversary, and is now operating 23 Airbus aircraft to over 70 destinations. The airline is planning to grow to 50 aircraft and 10 million annual passengers.
- Turkish Airlines has partnered with Samsung to let travellers track SmartTag-equipped baggage through SmartThings Find, becoming the first airline in the world to adopt this technology. The feature aims to improve peace of mind and streamline the baggage experience for millions of passengers.
- Pegasus Airlines has agreed to acquire Czech Airlines and Smartwings for €154 million, combining fleets and networks to expand its European presence while keeping both brands active.
