From route expansions and new destinations to award wins and bold branding, here are the latest developments in the Middle East’s aviation industry.

Where tennis meets aviation 

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has been unveiled as Qatar Airways’ Global Brand Ambassador and Wellness Advisor. In this dual role, Djokovic will champion the airline’s commitment to excellence and elevate its wellness offerings. The partnership underscores Qatar Airways’ global presence in sports, leveraging Djokovic’s image as a symbol of determination and health. 

Qatar Airways has also introduced limited-edition Formula 1-themed onboard amenities to celebrate its title sponsorship of the Qatar Grand Prix running until 1 December. Passengers can enjoy exclusive collectibles, including F1-inspired amenity kits, and loungewear for First and Business Class passengers. 

IOSA accreditation for flyadeal

After an in-depth audit, Saudi’s flyadeal has achieved the prestigious IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) accreditation, marking a significant milestone in its operational excellence journey. IOSA is currently the highest safety compliance accreditation and covers all areas of operation safety from in-flight cabin services to cargo and maintenance, 

As Flyadeal eyes further growth in regional and international markets, the IOSA accreditation enhances its reputation, positioning it as a competitive player in the global aviation industry.

SalamAir is heading to Nairobi in 2025

Oman’s budget airline SalamAir is set to expand its network by adding Nairobi, Kenya, to its routes in February 2025. The move reflects SalamAir’s strategic focus on connecting the Middle East to key destinations in Africa. The direct flights to Nairobi will cater to growing demand for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Oman and Kenya.

SalamAir’s CEO, Captain Mohamed Ahmed, emphasised the significance of this addition in strengthening ties between the regions. With Nairobi’s status as a bustling economic hub and gateway to East Africa, this route is expected to bolster SalamAir’s presence in the African market.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi flies to Varna

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has launched its latest route connecting Abu Dhabi to Varna, Bulgaria. This strategic addition reinforces the airline’s commitment to affordable travel while linking the UAE to Bulgaria’s picturesque Black Sea coast. Varna, renowned for its cultural heritage and vibrant seaside attractions, offers travellers an appealing destination. This launch underscores Wizz Air’s dedication to expanding its network and offering diverse travel experiences.

Somon Air makes Doha debut

Tajikistan’s leading carrier, Somon Air, has commenced operations to Doha, marking its entry into the Qatari market. Flights from Dushanbe are being served by Boeing 737-800 aircraft and takes nearly 4 hours. 

The new route strengthens connectivity between Central Asia and the Middle East, offering business and leisure travellers seamless options. The airline is poised to benefit from Qatar’s role as a global aviation hub, enabling passengers to connect onward to various destinations. 

Egnatia Aviation partners with Emirates Flight Training Academy 

Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) has forged a groundbreaking partnership with Egnatia Aviation to enhance pilot training standards. This collaboration integrates EFTA’s state-of-the-art facilities in Dubai with Egnatia’s expertise in advanced aviation training. Together, they aim to produce highly skilled pilots, addressing the industry’s growing demand for qualified personnel. This move is part of EFTA’s journey to achieve the globally recognised European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) accreditation in 2025. 

Etihad expands Africa operations

Etihad Airways plans to double its African destinations in 2025, adding to the three new routes announced in the last two months. It currently serves four African destinations including Johannesburg, Cairo, Mahe, and Casablanca and will resume Nairobi flights in December. Next year, Etihad will launch routes to Tunis, Algiers, and Al Alamein while launching daily flights to Johannesburg and Casablanca bringing its weekly total flight frequency to Africa to 57 across eight cities. 

Etihad has also unveiled a bold new Airbus A320neo livery in Chennai Super Kings’ yellow and blue. Launching in December to Chennai, the livery of the beloved Indian cricket team celebrates Etihad’s IPL partnership with CSK, showcasing cricket’s global appeal. Etihad operates 181 flights weekly to 11 Indian cities, strengthening ties with India.

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Earlier this week

Emirates’ Airbus A350 delivery, brings forward Edinburgh service and shares new AC Milan livery

Emirates has reached a significant milestone, taking delivery of its first Airbus A350 aircraft, which marks the airline’s first new aircraft type in 15 years and the beginning of a fleet expansion that will include 65 A350s. The carrier had also shared that it will bring its scheduled daily service to Edinburgh forward to 3 January 2025.

Meanwhile, the airline also unveiled a celebratory A380 livery to honour its long-standing partnership with AC Milan on the club’s 125th anniversary. The design features the club’s iconic red and black stripes alongside Emirates’ logo, symbolising their shared legacy of excellence. The aircraft will be deployed on high-traffic routes, such as those to London, New York, and Sydney. The unveiling included a special event with the AC Milan team, reflecting Emirates’ commitment to sports sponsorships and fan engagement. 

Etihad adds 10 new destinations

Etihad Airways has revealed the10 new destinations to its network, significantly expanding its global reach in 2025. Notable additions include Atlanta, marking Etihad’s first foray into the southeastern United States, and Hong Kong, a key hub for Asian connections. The airline also announced Hanoi (Vietnam) Phnom Penh (Cambodia) Chiang Mai (Thailand) and Medan (Indonesia). More details here.

Meanwhile, the airline was just awarded the titles of World’s Leading Airline for Customer Experience, World’s Leading Economy Class, and World’s Leading First Class Airline Lounge. The awards, considered the highest accolades in the travel industry, with winners chosen by industry professionals and travelers worldwide, were presented at a ceremony in Funchal, Madeira, on 24 November.

flydubai launches more Al Alamein flights

flydubai is enhancing its Middle Eastern network by launching direct flights to Al Alamein, a picturesque city on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. Starting with twice-weekly flights, this service will provide travellers with access to a destination known for its historical significance and growing tourism potential.

Al Alamein is home to World War II memorials and mediterranean coastline and this addition is expected to support regional tourism and trade links, catering to both leisure and business travellers seeking cost-effective options within the region.

Saudia wins “Best Cabin Crew” award

The Best Airline Cabin Crew award has been claimed by Saudia Airlines (Saudia) at the 2024 Business Traveler North America Awards highlighting its commitment to enhancing the travel experience. Chief Guest Experience Officer Rossen Dimitrov credited the recognition to the dedication of Saudia’s navigators and team.

The airline integrates Saudi culture into its services, including traditional hospitality and cuisine. With a modern fleet of 144 aircraft, Saudia focuses on innovation, improving services, and connecting the world to Saudi Arabia across more than 500 flights per day.

RAC walks away with five awards

Operator of King Khalid International Airport, the Riyadh Airports Company (RAC) earned five awards at the Customer Centricity World Series in Amsterdam. The accolades highlight RAC’s exceptional customer service, innovative digital strategies, and customer-focused experience design. CEO Ayman Abdulaziz AboAba expressed pride in the recognition, emphasisng it as motivation to further enhance customer experiences and pursue digital transformation. 

Qatar Airways eyes Colombia

Qatar Airways is preparing to make its debut in South America by requesting flight slots to Bogotá, Colombia. The airline plans to operate flights from Doha to Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport, potentially starting as early as May 2025. This would mark Qatar Airways’ first entry into the Colombian market, opening up opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. 

flyadeal’s Tashkent connection

Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier flyadeal has launched direct flights between Jeddah and Tashkent, Uzbekistan, marking its first route to Central Asia. The service, which started 21 November this year, operates twice weekly and targets both leisure and business travellers. Tashkent, known for its rich cultural heritage and economic potential, is an attractive addition to flyadeal’s growing network. Flyadeal plans to extend this connectivity with flights from Jeddah to Namangan in December, and from Medina to Tashkent in 2025.