This week’s about expanded route operations and increased frequencies. Etihad will operate 21 weekly flights to Moscow, while Turkish Airlines boosts summer flights to Zagreb and Dubrovnik. Air France will launch direct flights from Riyadh to Paris, and Qatar recorded over 4 million air passengers in February 2025. Plus, Air Arabia shareholders approved a 25% cash dividend for 2024!

Emirates to deploy upgraded boeing 777s on all three daily flights to Riyadh

Emirates will roll out its upgraded Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on all three daily flights between Dubai and Riyadh. The enhanced planes feature the airline’s latest Business Class product and refreshed interiors across all cabins. This move aims to offer a more consistent and elevated passenger experience on the popular route. Emirates’ triple-daily Riyadh service is part of its broader commitment to the Saudi market. The city has also becomes the first Middle Eastern destination to be exclusively served by this fleet type.

Etihad Airways expands services and talent

Etihad Airways has announced an increased flight schedule to Moscow, operating three daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Moscow from October 1, increasing weekly services to 21. The expanded route will utilize an Airbus A320, offering 8 business and 150 economy seats, strengthening connections between Russia and Etihad’s global network.

The airline has also launched its UAE National Talent Development Strategy, aiming to increase the Emirati workforce by over 50% in five years. The initiative includes cadet pilot training, technician development, and leadership pathways, supporting Etihad’s growth plans to double its fleet and triple passenger numbers by 2030.

SalamAir begins east africa expansion with new routes and partnerships

SalamAir has launched its East Africa expansion strategy, introducing new routes to key destinations including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Zanzibar. The airline aims to enhance connectivity between Oman and East African markets, focusing on both tourism and business travel. This move aligns with SalamAir’s broader regional growth plans and efforts to boost Oman’s aviation sector. Further partnerships and increased flight frequencies are expected as part of the initiative.

Gulf Air to launch direct flights to Nairobi from June 2025

Gulf Air has announced the launch of direct flights between Bahrain and Nairobi, Kenya, starting 2 June 2025. The service will operate five times weekly using Airbus A320neo aircraft. This marks Gulf Air’s return to Nairobi since it last operated flights there in 2012. The new route aims to strengthen ties between Bahrain and Kenya and expand Gulf Air’s presence in East Africa.

DAE expands fleet with $1B purchase of 17 new aircraft

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has announced the acquisition of 17 new aircraft valued at $1 billion. The deal includes a mix of narrow-body and wide-body jets, strengthening DAE’s leasing portfolio to meet increasing demand from global airline customers. This move aligns with DAE’s strategy to expand its fleet and reinforce its position in the aviation leasing sector. The company’s total fleet now exceeds 500 aircraft.

Qatar records over 4m air passengers in February 2025

Qatar witnessed a significant rise in air travel, registering over 4 million passengers in February 2025. Hamad International Airport handled approximately 21,500 aircraft movements during the month. The robust figures reflect ongoing growth in tourism and business travel, supported by Qatar’s expanding aviation network and strategic location. Cargo and mail operations also saw an increase, with over 200,000 tonnes processed.

Turkish Airlines boosts summer flights to Zagreb and Dubrovnik

Turkish Airlines is increasing flights between Istanbul and both Zagreb and Dubrovnik for the 2025 summer season. The carrier will offer up to 24 weekly flights to Zagreb, including a fourth daily service on selected days from July 1 to September 1. Dubrovnik flights will rise to nine weekly during the same period, with two daily flights on Tuesdays and Sundays. These expansions support increased transfer traffic, particularly from Asia, the US, and Australia.

Air France to launch Riyadh-Paris direct flights from 20 May

Air France will begin direct flights between Riyadh and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport on 20 May, starting with three weekly services and increasing to five weekly flights in June. The route will be operated by Airbus A350-900 aircraft, offering 324 seats across Business, Premium, and Economy classes. The airline not only aims to strengthen its presence in the kingdom, but also provide seamless access to more than 190 destinations worldwide via Paris.

Air Arabia shareholders approve 25% cash dividend for 2024 following strong performance

Air Arabia’s shareholders have approved a 25% cash dividend for the 2024 financial year, equating to 25 fils per share. This decision follows a record net profit of AED 1.6 billion ($435.65 million), marking a 4% increase from 2023. Despite geopolitical and economic challenges, the airline expanded its network by adding 31 new routes and 10 aircraft, ending the year with a fleet of 81 aircraft operating over 220 routes.

Aleppo International Airport set to reopen after temporary closure

Aleppo International Airport in Syria is scheduled to reopen following a temporary shutdown due to recent Israeli airstrikes. The airport, which had suspended operations for security reasons, is a key hub for humanitarian aid and passenger flights in Syria’s second-largest city. Authorities have confirmed that repairs have been completed, and flight services will resume soon to support travel and trade.