The aviation industry is soaring to new heights, with record-breaking profits, new routes, and luxury expansions taking center stage. Qatar has delievered the future, flydubai has announced its best-ever annual results, marking a 15-year high with a pre-tax profit of AED 2.5B (USD 680M), while Emirates has unveiled a joint loyalty programme with Garuda Indonesia. Meanwhile, Riyadh Air is set to commence operations by year-end, and luxury operators RoyalJet and Falcon Luxe are expanding their fleets with new aircraft.

IATA reports surge in air passenger demand and strong safety performance

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported a 10% surge in global air passenger demand in January 2025, driven by a strong performance from Asia-Pacific carriers. This growth aligns with passenger survey results indicating a strong desire to travel in the coming year. Additionally, IATA’s 2024 Annual Safety Report shows strong overall performance on safety, with improvements in several key parameters. The all-accident rate improved to 1.13 per million flights, although it was slightly worse than the exceptional performance in 2023. IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh, emphasized the importance of continued efforts to make flying even safer, while also highlighting concerns over conflict zone risks, GNSS interference, and timely accident investigation reports.

Bahrain International Airport Retains 5-Star Rating

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has been awarded the prestigious 5-Star Airport quality rating by SKYTRAX for the fourth consecutive year. The airport’s high standards of product and staff service, terminal design, and facilities, including Smart security and a range of shopping and dining options, contributed to its top rating. Gulf Air Group Chairman Khalid Hussain Taqi praised the achievement as a “tremendous honour” and a testament to the airport’s dedication to innovation and excellence.

Qatar Airways introduces off-airport check-in for pilgrims

Qatar Airways has launched an off-airport check-in service in Makkah, allowing Hajj and Umrah passengers to complete check-in formalities, receive boarding passes, and have baggage collected from the city. This service, available from 1 March 2025, aims to provide a seamless and hassle-free travel experience, reducing airport wait times and allowing pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey.

Meanwhile, the airlines has received the Australian Government’s approval of its minority 25% stake in Virgin Australia, paving the way for a new era of cooperation between the two airlines. More here.

Etihad Airways expands global reach, celebrates Ramadan with Emirati flavours

Etihad Airways is set to form a strategic partnership with Air Europa to strengthen connectivity between Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia. As part of the agreement, Etihad will increase its flights to Madrid to twice daily from summer 2025, providing seamless access between Abu Dhabi and Spain. The airline has also announced new routes and services, including the deployment of its Airbus A380 on the Abu Dhabi-Toronto route from 24 June 2025. Meanwhile, passengers flying during Ramadan an look forward to enjoying traditional Emirati flavours and favourites onboard flights, as well as special programmes and content on its E-BOX entertainment system.

Gulf Air strengthens London links

Gulf Air has announced direct flights from Bahrain to London Gatwick Airport, starting 30 March. The airline will operate three weekly flights using its Boeing 789 Dreamliner, featuring 26 flatbed business class seats. The new route caters to the growing demand for travel between Bahrain and the UK, and complements with the carrier’s existing London services.

Arsenal stars explore Dubai’s iconic landmarks with Emirates

Arsenal first-team players David Raya, Jorginho, and Mikel Merino embarked on a sightseeing tour of Dubai, experiencing the city’s newest architectural icons and storied landmarks. The players visited Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Marina, and the iconic Burj Al Arab, trading playful quips and sharing their favourite attractions along the way. The tour was part of Arsenal’s winter training camp in Dubai, marking the second consecutive year the team has visited the city for warm-weather training. The Emirates and Arsenal partnership is one the longest running and recognisable relationships in the Premier League.

Oman Air sees surge in point-to-point passengers

Oman Air has reported a 35% increase in point-to-point passengers in January 2025, accounting for 46% of total traffic. This shift is expected to boost the airline’s profitability and aligns with its strategic goal to maximise inbound traffic, supporting Oman’s 2040 Vision by increasing tourism numbers.

Salalah welcomes Edelweiss flights

Salalah, Oman has welcomed Edelweiss’ inaugural flight from Zurich on 25 February 2025. The airline now operates flights to two Omani destinations, having added Salalah to its existing Muscat route. Twice-weekly flights will operate until May and resume in September, offering travellers a year-round beach escape to Oman’s spectacular coastline.

Wizz Air eyes ultra low-cost flights to Dubai

Wizz Air is considering launching the UK’s first ultra low-cost flights from London to Dubai using its new Airbus A321XLR aircraft. According to a report by The Independent, the airline aims to expand its presence in the Gulf region, having already announced flights from London Gatwick to Jeddah and Medina. With the A321XLR’s 11-hour range, Wizz Air plans to connect Central and Western Europe with the East at affordable prices.

Fly Jinnah launches daily flights from Islamabad to Riyadh

Fly Jinnah, Pakistan’s leading low-cost carrier, has announced the launch of daily non-stop flights between Islamabad and Riyadh, effective 30 March 2025. This new route strengthens Fly Jinnah’s presence in Saudi Arabia and enhances connectivity between the two nations, catering to growing travel demand. The airline recently expanded its operations in Saudi Arabia with non-stop flights between Lahore and three key Saudi cities including Dammam, Riyadh, and Jeddah.

Earlier this week…

Qatar Airways delivers future and achieves milestone with Starlink

Qatar Airways has has unveiled a suite of revolutionary travel tech, effectively changing the way we book and travel. Meanwhile, the airline has also installed Starlink’s high-speed internet on its 30th aircraft, covering over 50% of its Boeing 777 fleet. This achievement comes just four months after launching the world’s first Boeing 777 Starlink-enabled flight. The airline has accelerated its rollout, reducing installation time from 3 days to 9.5 hours, and plans to complete the full fleet rollout by Q2 2025, providing free, uninterrupted connectivity to passengers.

flydubai reports record-breaking annual results

Dubai-based low cost carrier flydubai has announced its best-ever annual results, marking a 15-year high. The airline reported a pre-tax profit of AED 2.5B (USD 680M), a 16% increase from the previous year, with total revenue reaching AED 12.8B (USD 3.48B), up 15% from 2023. flydubai carried 15.4 million passengers in 2024, an 11% increase, with its Business Class offering seeing an 18% uptake. The airline’s success is attributed to its adaptability, forward planning, and collaborative approach with stakeholders, solidifying its position as a key player in the aviation industry.

Turkey enhances travel experience with new compensation system and family discount

Turkey has introduced a new flight compensation system, allowing passengers to claim up to €600 (£500) for delayed flights, depending on distance. This move brings Turkey’s regulations in line with EU and UK standards, providing travellers with increased protections and holding airlines accountable for operational disruptions. Additionally, Turkish Airlines is offering a 15% discount on travel until the end of 2025 as part of Türkiye’s Family Year initiative. The “Family Discount” applies to groups of three to nine passengers sharing the same surname, aiming to support families and promote travel within Türkiye.

Oman Air sees surge in point-to-point passengers

Oman Air has reported a 35% year-on-year increase in point-to-point passengers, accounting for 46% of total traffic in January 2025. This shift is expected to boost profitability and aligns with the airline’s strategic goal to increase inbound tourism, supporting Oman’s 2040 Vision. With a strong demand reflected in an 88% seat occupancy, Oman Air’s refined network and fleet adjustments are paying off, with the airline now flying to 41 destinations.

Emirates unveils joint loyalty programme and exclusive winter offers

Emirates and Garuda Indonesia have launched a joint loyalty programme, enabling Emirates Skywards and GarudaMiles members to earn and redeem Miles across a combined network of over 200 destinations. The partnership allows members to earn Miles on flights operated by both airlines, with redemption options starting at 8,000 Miles.

To further enhance the travel experience, Emirates is offering Dubai-bound travellers complimentary stays this winter. Those booking return First Class or Business Class tickets, or opting for a stopover in Dubai, will receive a complimentary stay at the luxurious JW Marriott Marquis, while Premium Economy and Economy Class passengers can enjoy a free one-night stay at either Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira or Holiday Inn Festival City. Select travellers will also receive complimentary access to Sky Views Observatory, complete with a thrilling Glass Slide and Edge Walk experience.

Riyadh Air to commence operations by year-end

Riyadh Air is expected to start operations by the end of 2025, according to CEO Tony Douglas. Speaking at an FII Institute event in Miami, Douglas acknowledged challenges in the supply chain, but noted signs of moderate improvement. Riyadh Air has ordered planes from both Airbus and Boeing, including 60 A321-family jets and up to 72 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The airline is also in the process of selecting additional wide-body jets, with plans to begin flights by year-end, slightly earlier than previously anticipated.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi’s Ramadan offer

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is celebrating Ramadan with an exclusive two-day discount of up to 25% on bookings made between February 25 and 26. The offer is valid for travel between 1 March and 31 May, with fares starting from AED 179 (USD 48.74). Passengers can explore over 30 destinations, including Alexandria, Amman, and Baku, with Wizz Air Abu Dhabi championing ultra-low fares and unique travel experiences.

RoyalJet expands fleet

RoyalJet, an Abu Dhabi-based private aviation charter operator, has ordered three Airbus ACJ320neo aircraft to expand its product portfolio. The ACJ320neo offers intercontinental range, low fuel burn, and lower maintenance costs, providing a superior passenger experience with its spacious cabin and premium interiors. This addition will enhance RoyalJet’s fleet, leveraging Airbus Corporate Jets’ versatility and reliability in challenging environments.

Falcon Luxe expands fleet and services

UAE-based private jet operator Falcon Luxe is expanding its fleet with 40 new aircraft by 2026, increasing its fleet size to over 50 jets. The new additions include the long-range Bombardier Global Express 6500, enabling non-stop flights of up to 12,000km. Falcon Luxe will also unveil a new premium cabin design, offering luxury and comfort on long-haul flights. The expansion aims to establish Falcon Luxe as a leading private jet operator in the region, supporting Dubai’s vision to become a global private aviation hub.