Plan Ahead for a Smooth Journey

Traveling with your beloved pets or service animals can be a fulfilling experience, but it requires careful planning and early communication with your airline. By reaching out well in advance, you can ensure a hassle-free journey for both you and your animal companions. Here’s what you need to know!

Service Animals

In-Cabin Travel

Only service dogs are allowed in the cabin, while other service animals usually must travel as checked baggage. Always check with your airline for specific guidelines.

Check-in Process

• Arrival: Head to the designated check-in area when you arrive at the Departures hall.
• Find Your Row: Use the airport planner or ask an information desk for assistance.

Quick Tips

• Notify Early: Inform your airline about your service animal well in advance.
• Pack Essentials: Bring food, medication, and comfort items for your animal.
• Leash Up: Keep your service animal leashed to ensure a calm environment.

Household Pets

Most pets, like cats and dogs, must travel as checked baggage. Ensure you’re aware of your airline's specific policies regarding pet travel.

Check-in Process

• Designated Area: Arrive at the Departures hall and check in at the designated area for your pet.

Live Animal Facility at Hamad International Airport

If you’re traveling through Hamad International Airport, your pet will benefit from a specialized live animal facility, providing:

• Comfortable Environment: A climate-controlled and secure area.
• Professional Care: Supervised by trained animal handlers who ensure your pet’s well-being during transit.

Collecting Your Pet

After your flight, an airline representative will deliver your pet to you personally. Proceed to Customs for an inspection of your pet’s travel documents.

Quick Tips

• Early Notification: Notify your airline about your pet’s travel arrangements.
• Secure Container: Ensure your pet is in an appropriate, ventilated container with access to food and water.

Falcons

For falcon enthusiasts, some airlines, like Qatar Airways, allow falcons in the passenger cabin (Economy Class), while others may require them to travel as checked baggage.

Check-in Process

Follow the same procedures as with other animals, checking in at your designated area.

Quick Tips

• Notify Early: Inform your airline well in advance about your falcon.
• Hooded: Keep your falcon hooded at all times during the flight to minimize stress.

Traveling with Animals at Hamad International Airport

Hamad International Airport is equipped to accommodate travelers with animals, ensuring a comfortable experience for both pets and their owners:

• Dedicated Facilities: The airport features a specialized live animal facility for pets, designed to provide a secure and climate-controlled environment while they await their flights.
• Trained Personnel: Professional animal handlers are on-site to oversee the care of your pets, ensuring they are safe and comfortable during their stay.
• Easy Navigation: Utilize the airport’s planning tools to locate check-in areas and facilities that cater to your animal’s needs.

By preparing thoroughly and understanding the requirements for traveling with animals, you can ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your companions, particularly at the world-class Hamad International Airport.

Useful Tips for Traveling with Animals

1. Research Airline Policies: Confirm specific rules for different types of animals.
2. Gather Documentation: Have all necessary health certificates and vaccination records ready.
3. Plan for Comfort: Pack essentials like food, water, and comfort items.
4. Visit the Veterinarian: Ensure your pet is healthy and fit for travel.
5. Familiarize Your Pet with Travel: Take short trips to acclimate them.
6. Arrive Early: Allow enough time for check-in and security.
7. Use a Secure Carrier: Ensure it meets airline specifications.
8. Stay Calm: Your demeanor can help ease your pet’s anxiety.
9. Hydration: Keep your pet hydrated, especially on long flights.
10. Know Arrival Procedures: Be aware of customs and collection processes.

Safe travels! 

Riyadh Air, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, has signed a landmark agreement with Rolls-Royce for 100 Trent XWB-97 engines to power its fleet of up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The deal, announced during the 55th Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, follows Riyadh Air’s order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft with options for 25 more, marking a major step in the airline’s ambitious growth strategy.

The Trent XWB-97 is recognized as the world’s most efficient large aero-engine, delivering 97,000 pounds of thrust and specifically engineered for the A350-1000. This partnership is set to support Riyadh Air’s goal of connecting over 100 global destinations by 2030, with the airline’s total fleet orders now reaching up to 182 aircraft across three types.

In addition to the engine deal, Riyadh Air and Rolls-Royce signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the comprehensive TotalCare service package, ensuring the health and maintenance of the engines throughout their lifecycle.

The agreement was formalized by Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, and Ewen McDonald, Chief Customer Officer at Rolls-Royce, in the presence of Tony Douglas, Riyadh Air CEO, and Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce.

Adam Boukadida, CFO of Riyadh Air, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Selecting world-class companies like Rolls-Royce to power our future Airbus wide-body fleet ensures we have the right partners to achieve our ambitions. This deal brings us closer to realizing our long-term vision of enhanced connectivity for Riyadh and delivering an unrivalled guest experience.”

Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, added:
“We’re looking forward to supporting the significant growth ambitions of Riyadh Air in its launch year. The Trent XWB-97 is an incredible engine, and our TotalCare package will provide operational certainty across the fleet.”

The new A350-1000 aircraft, powered by the Trent XWB-97 engines, will enable Riyadh Air to expand its network globally, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to transform Riyadh into a leading aviation hub. With its Air Operator Certificate secured earlier this year, Riyadh Air is on track to commence operations later in 2025.

Launched in March 2023, Riyadh Air is a digitally led, full-service airline committed to sustainability, safety, and premium guest experiences. The carrier aims to connect guests to over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, featuring advanced cabin interiors and next-generation in-flight entertainment.

Rolls-Royce is a global leader in power and propulsion, supporting a wide range of industries and customers in over 100 countries. In 2024, the company reported annual underlying revenue of £17.8 billion and an underlying operating profit of £2.46 billion. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange.

This collaboration underscores Riyadh Air’s commitment to innovation and world-class service, positioning the airline as a key player in the future of global aviation.

Qatar Airways has made a pivotal decision to cancel its entire order for 25 Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft, a move aimed at enhancing its regional service. This shift solidifies Airbus as the exclusive provider for the airline's upcoming narrowbody fleet.

The cancellation stems from ongoing delays in the MAX 10's certification, which is now not expected to enter service until at least 2026. Consequently, Hamad International Airport (DOH) will transition to a fully Airbus-operated narrowbody fleet, with the delivery of A321neos anticipated to resume shortly. The A321neo is recognized for its efficiency and extended range, making it well-suited for regional operations.

Qatar Airways Withdraws from Boeing Orders

In a recent announcement to Bloomberg, CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer confirmed the airline's withdrawal from the MAX 10 order, which included options for an additional 25 aircraft. This order was initially placed during the 2022 Farnborough Airshow amid tensions with Airbus, following the cancellation of A321neo and A350 orders due to legal disputes.

However, ongoing delays in certifying the MAX 10 have altered the situation, affecting major airlines like United, American, and Delta. United's Chief Commercial Officer indicated that deliveries could be postponed until 2027 or 2028, raising doubts about the program’s feasibility.

Given this uncertainty, Qatar Airways chose to cancel the Boeing deal rather than risk further delays. The airline is prioritizing reliable and readily available aircraft for its fleet.

Airbus Orders Reinstated

The original Boeing order emerged from a contentious dispute with Airbus regarding surface issues on the A350. In 2022, Qatar Airways grounded 29 A350s and sought $600 million in damages, leading to a highly publicized legal battle. In retaliation, Airbus canceled pending orders for A350s and A321neos, prompting Qatar to consider Boeing's MAX 10 as an alternative.

By early 2023, the dispute was resolved, resulting in a mutual settlement and the resumption of delivery schedules. As a result, Qatar Airways has reinstated its order for 50 Airbus A321neos, ensuring that Airbus will be the sole supplier for its narrowbody fleet. This alignment allows the airline to streamline its operations and enhance customer experience.

Continued Partnership with Boeing

Despite the cancellation of the MAX 10, Qatar Airways is deepening its partnership with Boeing. Recently, the airline announced its largest-ever order, comprising 130 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 30 Boeing 777-9s, with options for an additional 50 aircraft. This order, totaling 210 widebody planes valued at $96 billion, aims to reinforce long-haul capabilities and address rising international travel demand.

CEO Al Meer emphasized that while the narrowbody segment will be exclusively Airbus, Boeing will continue to play a vital role in the airline’s widebody strategy. He clarified that the focus is on operational efficiency rather than competition between manufacturers.

“Our narrowbody fleet will be exclusively Airbus,” Al Meer stated. “We will begin receiving 50 A321neos starting next year, solidifying Airbus's role in our narrowbody operations.”

Overview of Qatar Airways Fleet

Current Narrowbody Fleet:

• 27 Airbus A320s (with 132 or 144 seats)
• 3 Boeing 737 MAX 8s (176 seats), which will soon be phased out or leased

Upcoming Narrowbody Orders:

• 40 Airbus A321neos
• 10 Airbus A321LRs
• Deliveries set to start in 2026

Current Widebody Fleet:

• Aircraft Type | In Fleet | On Order
• Airbus A350-1000 | 24 | 18
• Boeing 787 | 41 | 130
• Boeing 777X | 0 | 90

As the largest operator of the Airbus A350-1000, Qatar Airways is well-equipped to serve both standard and premium long-haul routes. With substantial orders for A321neos and A350s, the airline is modernizing its fleet and enhancing its operational capabilities.

Looking Ahead

While Qatar Airways solidifies its partnership with Boeing for widebodies, industry experts suggest that the airline may soon seek additional A350s or consider the Airbus A330-900neo to replace its aging A330 models. This strategy prioritizes standardization and operational efficiency over diversification, allowing Qatar Airways to maintain a competitive edge.

Furthermore, as the aviation sector recovers post-pandemic, Qatar Airways is well-positioned to take advantage of the increasing travel demand. The airline's strategic choices reflect its commitment to fleet enhancement and improved service quality.

At the same time, Boeing is under pressure to resolve its backlog and address certification delays for the MAX 10, as airlines like United, Delta, and Alaska Airlines explore other options. Qatar Airways' exit from the MAX 10 program adds to the challenges facing Boeing in meeting customer expectations, highlighting the urgent need for timely solutions in a rapidly evolving market.

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new flagship airline, and Blacklane, the global chauffeur service, have announced a strategic partnership at the 2025 Paris Airshow, showcased alongside a Riyadh Air-liveried A321 aircraft and a Blacklane-wrapped vehicle. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Riyadh Air’s commitment to delivering best-in-class service throughout the entire customer journey.

Under the new agreement, Riyadh Air’s Business Elite and Business Class passengers, as well as eligible loyalty members, will benefit from complimentary luxury chauffeur services provided by Blacklane within a 50-kilometer radius of Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. The service features elegant, high-end vehicles and is seamlessly integrated into Riyadh Air’s booking platform, allowing guests to arrange their chauffeur as part of their travel experience.

Beyond airport transfers, travelers will have access to Blacklane’s chauffeur services for city-to-city travel, in-city rides, and hourly bookings, both in Riyadh and at any of Riyadh Air’s global destinations. This partnership sets a new standard in the airline industry within Saudi Arabia and internationally, reflecting the shared dedication of both companies to exceptional hospitality and attention to detail.

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, highlighted the importance of the partnership: “Our partnership with Blacklane reinforces our ethos of ensuring our customers experience Saudi hospitality with world-class service standards. We revealed our stylish new Business Elite and Business Class seats recently, and this is the next step in keeping our promises to deliver an exceptional premium experience to our guests.

Riyadh Air and Blacklane are two outstanding brands with hospitality and an attention to detail at heart, and our relationship will offer our guests a truly elevated travel itinerary, from the first mile to the last.”Dr. Jens Wohltorf, CEO and Co-Founder of Blacklane, added, “This partnership is more than a service it’s a promise.

 Together, Riyadh Air and Blacklane will offer guests a thoughtfully curated journey, marked by reliability, sophistication, and genuine care. We look forward to welcoming Riyadh Air guests and ensuring every moment of their journey is unique.”

This partnership not only enhances Riyadh Air’s premium offering but also reinforces Blacklane’s position as a leader in luxury chauffeur services worldwide. It promises travelers a seamless, sophisticated experience that begins long before boarding the aircraft and continues well beyond arrival, embodying the future of elevated travel.

Four Wildlife Trusts in England—the London Wildlife Trust, Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside, and Northumberland Wildlife Trust—have received a major multi-million-pound investment through the "Championing Nature" programme, a six-year initiative funded by The All England Lawn Tennis Club and Emirates.

This partnership is specifically designed to bridge the gap between urban communities and the natural world, with a strong emphasis on reaching disadvantaged children, young people aged 16-24, and families who often have limited access to green spaces.

Research underpinning the programme revealed that about one in eight children from low socio-economic backgrounds under the age of 12 has never experienced nature firsthand. Key barriers include a lack of nearby green space facilities (21%) and the cost of transport to such areas (17%). Parents have reported that when their children do spend time in nature, they see notable improvements in mood, happiness, physical activity, and overall health.

Each Wildlife Trust will use the funding to deliver tailored projects in their local urban areas. For example, the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust plans to provide interactive nature-based education sessions for schools—focusing on those with the least access to green space—and launch year-round outreach events for young people and the wider community. The Trust will also upgrade its Centre of the Earth environmental education site.

The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside will focus on community-driven initiatives in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester, including workshops, school partnerships, habitat restoration, and the creation of a nature corridor. Northumberland Wildlife Trust aims to enhance nature connection in urban and suburban areas through school partnerships, educator training, youth activism, and potentially managing a section of a country park in North Tyneside for the next 40 years, co-designed with the local community.

The programme was launched at the AELTC’s Community Tennis Centre at Raynes Park, with naturalist Steve Backshall MBE as its ambassador. Backshall emphasized the transformative benefits of nature connection for young people and expressed excitement about the positive changes the initiative will bring to urban communities.

Overall, "Championing Nature" is set to create a lasting legacy by improving urban green spaces, providing environmental education, and ensuring that future generations—regardless of background—can benefit from meaningful experiences with nature.

Qatar Airways Group has unveiled its most impressive financial performance to date, reporting a record net profit of QAR 7.85 billion (US$2.15 billion) for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. This figure marks a 28% rise over the previous year, highlighting the airline’s strong recovery and growth. The Group’s total revenues climbed to QAR 86 billion (US$23.4 billion), up from QAR 80.9 billion (US$22.1 billion), as passenger numbers surged to 43.1 million-an increase of more than 3 million compared to last year.

The airline’s cargo operations also saw remarkable growth, with revenues jumping by 17%, representing the division’s best performance since the pandemic. This success is credited to Qatar Airways’ swift response to market changes, ongoing investments in digital technology, and a focus on data-driven strategies that improved operational efficiency.

A key factor in these results was the expansion of Hamad International Airport, which now accommodates over 65 million travelers annually thanks to the addition of new concourses and state-of-the-art boarding systems. These upgrades have not only increased capacity but also enhanced passenger experience with advanced automation and sustainability initiatives, further establishing Doha as a major global transit hub.

Looking to the future, Qatar Airways has made substantial investments, including a historic $200 billion deal with Boeing for 160 new widebody aircraft-the largest order of its kind. This move is set to modernize the airline’s fleet and support its ongoing network expansion.

CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer attributed the company’s record-breaking year to its renewed focus on talent development, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships. With a workforce of over 55,000 employees worldwide, Qatar Airways continues to set benchmarks in the aviation industry, demonstrating resilience and adaptability amid a dynamic global market.

Chairman HE Saad Sherida al-Kaabi praised the airline’s achievements, noting that they stem from careful planning and the dedication of its staff. These historic results not only reinforce Qatar Airways’ leadership in the sector but also signal its growing influence in the global economy.