It’s time to take to the skies with this week’s aviation news in the Middle East. From mixed financial performances across the industry between Air Arabia and Etihad Airways, a new Youth Council from Dubai Airports, and new routes from Air Canada, Oman Air, and flydubai. The sector is bustling. Here’s the latest. 

Dubai Airports’ Youth Council cohort

Dubai Airports has launched its Youth Council on 12 August in line with International Youth Day. Aligning with the UAE Federal Youth Authority’s objectives, the council’s first cohort comprises of 14 young professionals from various departments within the organisation.

It aims to empower youth by involving them in decision-making processes, fostering innovation, and contributing to initiatives that support Dubai Airports‘ strategic vision. The Youth Council reflects the organisation’s dedication to nurturing young talent and integrating their perspectives into the future growth of the aviation sector in the UAE.

Riyadh Air grants $400m ground handling contract amid first electric coaches 

Riyadh Air has awarded a $400 million (SR 1.5 billion) ground handling contract to Saudi Ground Services Co. at King Khalid International Airport that will last 4.5 years. As a key development in enhancing Riyadh Air’s operations and services, the contract has the option to extend a further two years. This move will support the airline’s growth and operational efficiency as it continues to expand its services, further positioning Saudi Arabia as a major hub in the global aviation industry.

This comes at a time when the airline has introduced Saudi Arabia’s first 47-seat electric coaches, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable transportation. The airline’s adoption of electric coaches reflects a broader strategy to enhance the visitor experience while promoting eco-friendly practices within the Kingdom’s rapidly growing tourism sector.

Air Arabia shares Q2 profit stats

Air Arabia reported a Q2 2024 net profit of AED 427 million ($116.25 million), a 7% decline from Q2 2023. Despite challenges like rising costs and economic uncertainties, the airline achieved a 19% increase in turnover of AED 1.65 billion and carried 4.5 million passengers, up 19% from the previous year. The airline’s seat load factor also improved to 79% during Q2 this year. Adding to the statistics for Q1 shows that Air Arabia’s total net profit has reached AED 693 million for the first half of this year. 

Air Canada resumes Dubai-Vancouver route for winter 2024/25 

Air Canada is set to resume its direct flights between Dubai and Vancouver in October, a move that is expected to strengthen ties between the two cities. This daily service, operating with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, caters to both business and leisure travellers, offering convenient connections to North American destinations.

This route adds to the year-round flight options between Dubai and Toronto and will provide three cabin types. 787-9 Dreamliners on the route will feature lie-flat pods in Air Canada’s Signature Class, Premium Economy, and Economy. 

Etihad Airways reports AED851 million profit (up 48%) in H1

Etihad Airways reported a 48% increase in profit to AED 851 million for the first half of 2024, driven by a 21% rise in total revenue to AED 11.7 billion. This growth was primarily due to strong passenger demand and strategic network expansion, with a 38% increase in passenger numbers to 8.7 million. Cargo revenue also grew by 10%. Etihad‘s continued investment in sustainable aviation and customer experience has positioned it as a leading player in the region, resulting in increased operational efficiencies. They were able to decrease the cost per seat km (CASK) by 5%, and CASK ex-fuel by 8% without impacting experience. 

The airline has also announced it will resume flights to Nairobi, Kenya from 15 December; and boost its network to South East Asia. A380 flights to Singapore will commence from 1 February 2025, while flight frequency to Thailand will increase to 41 services a week starting 27 October 2024.

flydubai lands in Switzerland

flydubai has become the first UAE-carrier to launch direct flights to Switzerland’s Northwest city of Basel. The new service started on 7 August and connects Dubai with Zurich, providing business and leisure passengers with more travel options between the UAE and Europe, adding to flydubai’s existing 29 European destinations. 

Basel is considered Switzerland’s cultural capital featuring a blend of modern and historic architecture, as well as being close to the historical Alsace region on the France-Germany border. Flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. 

Oman Air resumes Zurich, Malé, and Moscow route

Oman Air is reintroducing its seasonal winter services to Zurich (5 October), Malé (27 October), and Moscow (29 October) this year. These routes, which cater to leisure travellers seeking winter getaways, will operate from Muscat at prices starting from OMR88 (one-way.) The Zurich route is particularly noteworthy, offering a gateway to the heart of Europe, while the Malé service taps into the growing demand for luxury travel to the Maldives. The Moscow route also reflects Oman Air’s strategic expansion into key global markets.

Meanwhile, the airline is also undergoing a strategic overhaul to improve its financial performance and competitiveness in the Middle East. As part of this restructuring, the airline is discontinuing several key routes in Asia, including services to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. The decision is driven by a focus on optimising its network and resources while reducing costs to align better with market demands and financial goals. Flight frequency reductions for other destinations are also going to be announced in due course.