Tuesday, 15 July 2025

IndiGo Introduces Daily Direct Flights to Fujairah from Mumbai and Kannur

Published: Saturday, April 12, 2025
IndiGo Introduces  Daily Direct Flights to Fujairah from Mumbai and Kannur
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IndiGo, India's largest low-cost airline, has announced the launch of daily direct flights from Mumbai and Kannur to Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, starting May 15, 2025. This strategic move marks Fujairah as IndiGo's 41st international destination and its fifth in the UAE, following Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

The inaugural flight from Mumbai to Fujairah will take place on May 15, with subsequent daily services commencing from May 16. The Mumbai to Fujairah flight will depart at 1:10 AM and arrive at 2:40 AM, while the return leg will leave Fujairah at 12:25 AM and land in Mumbai at 4:50 AM. Meanwhile, flights from Kannur will depart at 8:55 PM and arrive at 11:25 PM, with the return flight departing Fujairah at 3:40 AM and reaching Kannur at 9:00 AM.

These new routes will be complemented by dedicated bus services to and from Dubai and Sharjah, enhancing connectivity and convenience for travelers. This expansion is part of IndiGo's commitment to boost regional connectivity and provide seamless travel experiences. Fujairah, known for its stunning natural beauty and economic potential, offers a unique blend of mountainous landscapes and a vibrant coastline along the Gulf of Oman.

The emirate is renowned for its pristine beaches, historic sites like Fujairah Fort, and the UNESCO-recognized Wadi Wurayah National Park. With its growing importance in trade, logistics, and tourism, these new flights are expected to enhance regional connectivity significantly.

IndiGo's expanded footprint in the UAE will operate a total of 275 weekly flights between India and the UAE, including 14 weekly flights to Fujairah. This strategic move not only strengthens IndiGo's global presence but also solidifies its position as a key player in international aviation, offering connectivity to 132 destinations worldwide.

The airline's extensive domestic network spanning over 90 Indian cities ensures seamless connections for travelers. By providing convenient and affordable travel options, IndiGo aims to bring people and businesses closer together, catering to both leisure and business travelers alike.

Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, emphasized that these new flights will enhance regional connectivity, providing convenient travel options for both leisure and business travelers. With its strategic growth plan, IndiGo continues to solidify its presence in the Middle East, offering seamless travel experiences across the globe.

Qatar Airways Resumes Flights to Malta, Boosting Global Network and Connectivity

Published: Friday, July 04, 2025
Qatar Airways Resumes Flights to Malta, Boosting Global Network and Connectivity
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Qatar Airways has officially resumed direct flights between Doha and Malta, with four non-stop services each week starting July 2, 2025, further strengthening its extensive global network and enhancing international connectivity.

The flights operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, departing Doha at either 08:45 or 14:05 and arriving in Malta later the same day or the following morning, depending on the schedule. Return flights from Malta to Doha are similarly structured, with departures at 10:15 or 17:05 and an average flight time of just over five hours.

This route re-establishes Malta as the 50th European destination in Qatar Airways’ network for the northern summer of 2025, providing travelers from Asia-Pacific markets—including China, India, Japan, and the Philippines—greater access to the Mediterranean. The service is expected to boost tourism to Malta’s capital Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the islands of Gozo and Comino.

Travelers from Malta will benefit from seamless connections to Qatar Airways’ network of over 170 destinations worldwide, including 42 weekly flights to Australia. The airline’s proposed partnership with Virgin Australia, pending regulatory approval, is set to further expand connectivity options for passengers.

Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, emphasized the importance of the Malta route in reinforcing economic ties and supporting tourism, highlighting Malta’s appeal with its rich history, cultural sites, and sun-soaked coastline. Malta International Airport and the Malta Tourism Authority have both welcomed the airline’s return, citing the positive impact on regional connectivity and tourism potential.

Qatar Airways remains the only Middle Eastern carrier offering non-stop flights between Doha and Malta, utilizing Airbus A320 aircraft with both Economy and Business Class options. Bookings for the new service are now open.

Emirates Launches Direct Flights to Shenzhen, Expanding Connectivity to Southern China

Published: Friday, July 04, 2025
Emirates Launches Direct Flights to Shenzhen, Expanding Connectivity to Southern China
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Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has officially commenced its daily passenger service to Shenzhen, China, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s strategic expansion across East Asia. The inaugural flight, EK328, touched down at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport on July 1, 2025, where it was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute and a special ceremony attended by local dignitaries, Emirates executives, and media representatives.

A New Gateway for Emirates in Mainland China

Shenzhen becomes Emirates’ fourth gateway in mainland China, joining Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The new route is operated by the airline’s newly retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER, which features Emirates’ latest four-class configuration: eight private suites in First Class, 40 new-generation lie-flat seats in Business Class, 24 seats in Premium Economy, and 260 seats in Economy Class.

Shenzhen is the first city in mainland China to receive Emirates’ upgraded aircraft with the Premium Economy product, reflecting the airline’s commitment to offering a superior travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.

Flight Schedule and Connectivity

Flight EK328 departs Dubai International Airport (DXB) daily at 10:05 am, arriving in Shenzhen (SZX) at 10:00 pm local time. The return flight, EK329, leaves Shenzhen at 11:55 pm, arriving back in Dubai at 3:40 am the next day.

These timings are designed to optimize connections to and from Emirates’ extensive global network, including key cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Boosting Trade, Tourism, and Cargo

The launch of the Dubai-Shenzhen route is expected to significantly enhance trade, tourism, and business ties between the UAE and southern China. Shenzhen, often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of China,” is a major technology, innovation, and manufacturing hub within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, home to over 86 million people and a GDP exceeding US$1.9 trillion.

Each Emirates flight to Shenzhen offers up to 16 tonnes of cargo capacity in the bellyhold, supporting the city’s thriving export-oriented industries, including electronics, e-commerce, and high-tech manufacturing. This will facilitate the movement of goods between China and over 140 destinations across Emirates’ network, reinforcing Shenzhen’s role in global supply chains.

Strategic Importance and Bilateral Relations

Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates, highlighted the significance of the new service: “The launch of our Shenzhen route is a testament to Emirates’ long-term commitment to China and to supporting the country’s trade and tourism ambitions. This new link will not only provide travelers with more choice and convenience but will also strengthen the economic and cultural ties between the UAE and China.”

The expansion comes at a time of deepening bilateral relations between China and the UAE, with both countries seeking to enhance cooperation under initiatives such as the Belt and Road. Emirates has been serving China since 2004 and now operates 42 weekly flights to four major Chinese cities, offering travelers and businesses unprecedented connectivity.

Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines Launch Daily Manila-Doha Flights Under New Codeshare Partnership

Published: Thursday, July 03, 2025
Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines Launch Daily Manila-Doha Flights Under New Codeshare Partnership
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Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines have launched daily nonstop flights between Manila and Doha as part of a new strategic partnership, with the inaugural codeshare flight celebrated at Hamad International Airport on June 30, 2025. The collaboration officially began on June 16, 2025, with Philippine Airlines operating the service using its long-range Airbus A330-300 aircraft, offering 18 flat-bed seats in Business Class and 341 seats in Economy Class.

Flights depart Manila at 18:50, arriving in Doha at 23:40, while the return leg leaves Doha at 01:30, reaching Manila at 16:15, enabling smooth connections to Qatar Airways’ global network of over 170 destinations across Africa, the Americas, Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East via Hamad International Airport, which was named the Middle East’s Best Airport by Skytrax in 2025.

The partnership also enhances connectivity for travelers from key markets such as Brazil, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States, offering greater flexibility and seamless travel options.

The launch event was attended by senior executives from both airlines, including Philippine Airlines President Richard Nuttall and Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer Thierry Antinori, who highlighted the partnership’s role in strengthening economic, tourism, and cultural ties between the Philippines and Qatar, as well as providing improved travel options for overseas Filipino workers and their families.

Both airlines plan to explore further collaboration, including expanded codeshare destinations and frequent flyer cooperation, aiming to maximize fleet efficiency and enhance passenger convenience through integrated schedules and check-ins.

Qatar Airways already serves four cities in the Philippines—Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao—while Philippine Airlines connects to 31 domestic and 38 international destinations, making this partnership a significant step in boosting access and connectivity for travelers in both regions.

Qatar Airways Resumes Flights to Iraq and Syria, Restores Full Operations in Lebanon and Jordan

Published: Wednesday, July 02, 2025
Qatar Airways Resumes Flights to Iraq and Syria, Restores Full Operations in Lebanon and Jordan
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Qatar Airways has taken a significant step in revitalizing air travel across the Middle East by fully resuming its operations to Iraq and Syria while restoring its complete flight schedule to Lebanon and Jordan. This extensive network reinstatement comes amid improving geopolitical stability and easing of airspace restrictions that had previously forced the airline to suspend or reduce services to these key destinations.

The move not only reflects Qatar Airways’ confidence in the region’s security environment but also underscores its commitment to enhancing connectivity, supporting economic recovery, and facilitating cultural exchange throughout the Levant and Mesopotamian corridors. With the summer travel season underway, the airline aims to meet rising passenger demand by offering increased frequencies, modern aircraft, and flexible schedules that cater to both business and leisure travelers.

This development is also aligned with Qatar’s broader strategy to strengthen its position as a global aviation hub through Hamad International Airport, which serves as a vital gateway linking Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Iraq:
The airline has relaunched service to five Iraqi cities:

  • Baghdad International Airport (BGW):

    • 13 weekly flights from June 30, increasing to 16 from July 8.

    • Two daily flights:

      • QR442 departs Doha at 18:40, arrives Baghdad at 20:45; return QR443 departs Baghdad at 21:55, arrives Doha at 00:05.

      • QR444 departs Doha at 08:10 (except Saturdays), arrives Baghdad at 10:15; return QR445 departs Baghdad at 11:45, arrives Doha at 13:55.

    • Additional flights every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday (QR458/QR459) from July 8123.

  • Erbil International Airport (EBL):

    • Seven weekly flights from July 1, with three extra weekly flights beginning July 9.

    • QR450 departs Doha at 18:35, arrives Erbil at 21:00; return QR451 departs Erbil at 22:00, arrives Doha at 00:25.

    • Additional flights every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday (QR454/QR455) from July 912.

  • Sulaymaniyah International Airport (ISU):

    • Seven weekly flights from July 2.

    • QR436 departs Doha at 00:55, arrives Sulaymaniyah at 03:25; return QR437 departs Sulaymaniyah at 04:25, arrives Doha at 06:40123.

  • Al Najaf International Airport (NJF):

    • Five weekly flights from July 2 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday).

    • QR460 departs Doha at 19:10, arrives Najaf at 21:05; return QR461 departs Najaf at 22:10, arrives Doha at 00:1013.

  • Basra International Airport (BSR):

    • Seven weekly flights from July 3.

    • QR448 departs Doha at 08:20, arrives Basra at 09:50; return QR449 departs Basra at 11:20, arrives Doha at 12:4513.

Syria:

  • Damascus International Airport (DAM):

    • Daily flights resume July 6 (QR410 departs Doha at 09:05, arrives Damascus at 12:00; return QR411 departs Damascus at 14:00, arrives Doha at 16:50).

    • From July 15, service increases to 14 weekly flights with an additional daily rotation (QR412/QR413)13.

Lebanon:

  • Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY):

    • Service increases from 14 to 21 weekly flights starting July 1, with three daily departures.

    • Example: QR418 departs Doha at 21:00, arrives Beirut at 00:10; return QR419 departs Beirut at 01:40, arrives Doha at 04:4513.

Jordan:

  • Queen Alia International Airport (AMM):

    • Service also increases to 21 weekly flights from July 1, with three daily departures

Qatar Airways has advised passengers to check the latest flight schedules and travel alerts on its website, as some departure times may have changed to ensure operational reliability and passenger safety. The airline’s resumption of these routes is expected to significantly enhance connectivity and support economic, cultural, and humanitarian links across the region. Flights to Iran remain suspended, with updates to be provided as the situation evolves

Emirates Unveils Bold Plans for Next-Generation Economy Class Seats

Published: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Emirates Unveils Bold Plans for Next-Generation Economy Class Seats
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In a recent interview with The Australian, Emirates CEO Tim Clark shared insights about the airline's upcoming economy seat design, although he remained tight-lipped about specific features. When asked about the details, Clark humorously declined to elaborate, stating, “I’m not saying how we’re going to do it.”

One concept he mentioned is a "pre-recline" feature, where seats would start off at a slightly reclined angle, providing a more relaxed seating position. However, he acknowledged the challenges this idea presents, calling it "difficult."

Clark also dismissed the notion that wider seats could be the solution to accommodate the growing trend of larger passengers, emphasizing that such changes would not be feasible within current design frameworks. Instead, he indicated that increasing legroom by spacing rows farther apart is not on the table, as this is a design change that any airline could implement with today's technology.

Looking ahead, Clark sees promise in developing taller seats. He suggested that a height increase of four or five inches could lead to significant improvements in passenger comfort, allowing for better positioning of the legs and more effective support. “If you put four or five inches on the height of the seats, what could you play with if you did that?” he pondered.

Furthermore, Clark highlighted the importance of how seats mold to the body, particularly focusing on the comfort of the feet and legs during long-haul flights. He noted that many passengers experience discomfort due to inadequate support, and Emirates is keen to address this issue.

While he acknowledged the constraints posed by financial metrics, Clark expressed optimism that Emirates can enhance the economy class experience. He stated, “We’ve got the usual financial economic metrics to work with, but I still think we can do a lot better in the way we present the comfort of the seat.”

In terms of operational efficiency, Clark pointed out that modern aircraft, such as the A380, are equipped with cameras that could help cabin crew monitor the cabin better, alleviating concerns about visibility when serving passengers seated in the rear.

As Emirates continues to innovate, passengers can expect a thoughtful approach to economy seating that prioritizes comfort and functionality. The airline is committed to enhancing the flying experience, making it more enjoyable for travelers around the world. With these developments on the horizon, Emirates aims to set a new standard in economy travel, blending cutting-edge design with passenger comfort