Top 3 Headlines
Qatar Airways to move to JFK’s new Terminal One in 2026
Qatar Airways will relocate its New York operations to JFK’s new Terminal One in 2026, where it will also debut its first dedicated US lounge. The 15,000 sq ft facility will offer Business Class passengers premium services including VIP check-in, dedicated transfers, and high-end dining and retail options.
The move is part of the $19 billion redevelopment of JFK, which features two new terminals, modernised facilities, and improved transport links, strengthening Qatar Airways’ presence in the US market and connection to the Middle East.
DXB unveils AI powered passenger corridor
Dubai International Airport (DXB) has introduced an AI powered passenger corridor that clears immigration in just 14 seconds, requiring no documents or passport checks. Part of the “Travel Without Borders” initiative, the system uses facial recognition and pre-registered biometrics to verify up to 10 passengers simultaneously.
It was first launched in Terminal 3’s premium lounges and the corridor builds on Dubai’s earlier smart tunnel technology and is designed to eventually replace traditional passport control. The innovation strengthens Dubai’s push for frictionless, secure travel and sets a new global benchmark as DXB marks its 11th year as the world’s busiest international airport.
Kuwait Airways launches self-service check-in at T4
Kuwait Airways has rolled out a new self-service check-in system at Terminal 4, allowing passengers to weigh baggage and print boarding passes without staff assistance. The initiative aims to speed up travel procedures, reduce congestion during peak seasons, and enhance the overall passenger experience. Kuwait Airways has suggested they will soon be releasing a video guide on exactly how to use the new service.
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Noteworthy:
- Jazeera Airways has launched a buy one get one free promotion valid for bookings made between 18-24 Aug across its entire network for travel between 1 September and 15 December. Customers can use promo code J9B1G1 on the website or app with no limit on ticket purchases.
- Royal Jordanian ranked among the top global airlines with an on-time performance rate of 95.21% in July according to the latest report from OAG.
- Saudia is offering travellers up to 50% off international flights. Bookings must be made by 31 August, for travel between 1 September and 10 December. Transit passengers can also take advantage of Saudi’s digital Stopover Visa, which grants them a 96-hour stay in the Kingdom.
- Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has launched seasonal flights to Yekaterinburg, Russia, operating twice per week on Mondays and Fridays starting from 27 October, marking its sixth Russian destination.
- Oman Air and Turkish Airlines announced a new frequent flyer partnership, allowing members of Sindbad and Miles&Smiles programs to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ networks.
- SalamAir has expanded its global reach by activating its content on Sabre’s Global Distribution System (GDS), enabling wider access for travel agents and corporate clients worldwide.
- Turkish Airlines will resume its service to Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, with three weekly flights starting in October 2025 NW25, reinstating an important Red Sea connection.
- AJet (formerly AnadoluJet) has taken delivery of its first two new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. The airline also announced new international routes to Spain, including Barcelona and Madrid.
- Pegasus Airlines launched a new route between Turkey and Astana, Kazakhstan, with three weekly flights, strengthening its Central Asia presence.
- Riyadh Air has signed a five-year strategic partnership with SATS Saudi Arabia (a subsidiary of Singapore’s SATS) to provide comprehensive cargo handling services at key airports in the Kingdom.
