Vietnam Airlines is set to ramp up its international operations for the busy 2025 summer travel season by increasing flight frequencies on two of its most popular Southeast Asian routes: Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok. From June 2 to October 25, the airline will add an extra flight on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore, raising the total weekly flights on this route to 18.

This provides more options for both business and leisure travelers, as well as those connecting through Singapore, a major regional aviation hub.

On the Ho Chi Minh City–Bangkok route, Vietnam Airlines will introduce one additional daily flight from August 18 to October 25, increasing the frequency to five flights per day. This substantial boost is intended to accommodate the expected surge in passenger numbers during the peak season and to strengthen Vietnam’s connectivity with Bangkok, another key tourism and transit hub in Southeast Asia.

These enhancements are part of Vietnam Airlines’ broader strategy to support the country’s growing air traffic and tourism sector. By providing more flexible schedules and increased capacity, the airline aims to facilitate smoother travel for both Vietnamese and international passengers, while also supporting economic growth through improved movement of people and goods.

To encourage bookings and maximize passenger traffic, Vietnam Airlines is offering a range of attractive promotional fares. For the Ho Chi Minh City–Singapore route, round-trip tickets start at just 5.1 million VND (about 196 USD), inclusive of taxes and fees, for tickets purchased by June 10 and travel between June 1 and October 31. Similar promotions are available for flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Australia, with round-trip fares starting from approximately 12.8 million VND.

Frequent flyers can also benefit from these changes. Members of the Lotusmiles loyalty program will receive a bonus of 1,000 miles when purchasing economy-class tickets directly from Vietnam Airlines’ official channels, with this offer valid for tickets issued until June 30 and travel completed by November 30.

These expanded services and promotions come as Vietnam Airlines continues its international growth, with plans to launch new routes to Europe, North America, and other Asian destinations in the near future. The airline currently operates 91 routes, including 57 international connections, and carried over 24 million passengers in 2024.

The latest expansion underscores Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to enhancing regional connectivity, supporting tourism, and responding dynamically to the evolving needs of travelers in the post-pandemic era.

The recent escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict has resulted in over 500 flights being cancelled or delayed across key international airports in Israel, the UAE, Qatar, and Turkey. This turmoil, characterized by missile attacks and extensive airspace disruptions, has forced airlines such as Delta, Air India, United, Emirates, Saudia, and Qatar Airways to alter their operations drastically.

As regional tensions rise, major airports—including Ben Gurion, Dubai International, Hamad International, and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen—have become focal points of aviation chaos, impacting countless travelers as they approach the busy summer season.

Ben Gurion Airport, Israel: 53 Flights Cancelled

In Israel, Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv faced significant disruptions, with 53 flights cancelled on Saturday alone. This surge in cancellations was largely due to safety concerns following Iran's missile retaliation against Israeli airstrikes that targeted prominent Iranian officials and nuclear scientists. While there were no reported delays, multiple airlines opted to suspend operations altogether.

United Airlines cancelled five flights, effectively halting their operations for the day. Similarly, Delta Air Lines and KLM cancelled all their scheduled flights. FlyDubai reported 10 cancellations, affecting over 60% of its daily operations. Other regional carriers, including Israir, El Al, and Cyprus Airways, also faced total cancellations on some routes.

Dubai International and Sharjah Airports, UAE: 362 Disruptions Combined

The UAE's aviation sector was hit particularly hard, with Dubai International Airport reporting a staggering 85 cancellations and 184 delays, summing up to 269 disruptions—the highest for any single airport in the region. Sharjah International Airport added to this chaos with 34 cancellations and 23 delays, bringing the national total to 362 flight disruptions.

FlyDubai, based in Dubai, suffered significantly, cancelling 62 flights and delaying 57 more, which impacted nearly one in five of its operations. Emirates, the UAE's flagship airline, experienced 16 cancellations and 86 delays. This ripple effect extended to other carriers such as Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Royal Jordanian, showcasing the widespread impact on airlines not directly operating in Israel.

Hamad International Airport, Qatar: 105 Disruptions

In Qatar, Hamad International Airport experienced a wave of complications, with 22 cancellations and 83 delays, totaling 105 impacted flights. Qatar Airways, the national carrier, was responsible for the majority of these disruptions, cancelling 22 flights and delaying 74, which accounted for roughly 12% of its daily schedule. Other airlines, such as Finnair, China Southern, and Jazeera Airways, also reported minor delays.

Despite Qatar's neutral position in the Israel-Iran conflict, the escalating regional instability and the risks associated with overflight prompted many airlines to reroute or suspend their operations through Qatari airspace.

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Turkey: 68 Flights Affected

Turkey's Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul reported 15 cancellations and 53 delays, primarily driven by regional carriers. Pegasus Airlines was particularly affected, leading the disruption count with 34 delays and 15 cancellations. Turkish Airlines, while reporting 10 delays, managed to avoid cancellations.

Although Turkey is geographically distanced from the immediate conflict zones, the substantial number of connecting flights through its airports resulted in cascading effects on operations. Factors like repositioning of flight crews and regulatory detours contributed to the delays.

Understanding the Flight Disruptions

The extensive wave of flight cancellations and delays across Israel, the UAE, Qatar, and Turkey is a direct consequence of the rapidly escalating military tensions between Israel and Iran. The conflict began with Israel launching a significant air offensive aimed at Iranian nuclear facilities, military leaders, and scientists, which reportedly resulted in considerable damage and loss of life.

In retaliation, Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles and drones toward Israel in successive waves, prompting air raid sirens and emergency shelter protocols in cities such as Tel Aviv. The ensuing chaos not only led to civilian casualties but also created a perilous environment for air traffic, forcing Ben Gurion Airport to suspend or limit its operations.

The conflict's repercussions quickly spread across the region, impacting airlines operating in Dubai, Doha, Sharjah, and Istanbul. Increased risks of airspace intrusions and the potential for misidentification by military radar created significant pressure for airlines to cancel or reroute flights. Countries like Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE, while not directly involved in the conflict, found themselves vulnerable due to their proximity and status as major aviation hubs.

In addition to physical threats, airspace closures and logistical challenges—including the repositioning of aircraft and crew shortages—compounded the operational impact. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, FlyDubai, United, Delta, and Saudia had no choice but to preemptively cancel flights or implement major delays to safeguard passengers and crew members.

Aviation regulators and defense agencies issued warnings and no-fly advisories for certain air corridors, further diminishing safe routing options. Consequently, what began as a localized military conflict evolved into one of the most significant aviation disruptions in the region this year, leaving many passengers stranded and airline operations fractured.

With tensions remaining high and both nations signaling potential further military action, these disruptions are likely to persist or even escalate in the coming days.

Conflict Fallout and Airspace Concerns

The current flight disruptions are unfolding amid one of the most dangerous escalations in the Middle East in recent history. Israel's military actions targeted Iranian nuclear capabilities, while Iran's response involved a concerted missile assault. Air raid sirens rang out across multiple Israeli cities, prompting a temporary grounding of civilian flights.

U.S. military forces have assisted Israel in intercepting some missile threats, yet the situation has compelled precautionary measures from aviation authorities throughout the region. Airlines have rerouted flights away from potential conflict zones, leading to widespread scheduling chaos.

Carriers operating through major regional hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul have faced severe disruptions to long-haul connections, particularly those connecting to Asia, Europe, and North America. Airlines, including Delta, United, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Saudia, either paused services or made significant network adjustments over the weekend.

Economic Impact: Oil Prices and Tourism Concerns

In conjunction with the aviation disruptions, oil prices surged by 7% in global markets, driven by concerns that the conflict could extend into the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit artery. The situation has raised alarms within the global tourism sector, especially with the summer travel season in full swing.

With over 500 flights cancelled or delayed, travelers across the Middle East are now bracing for ripple effects that may linger for days or even weeks. Airlines are striving to rebook passengers and redirect aircraft, but ongoing security uncertainties could lead to additional suspensions or timetable adjustments.

Airlines and Airports Affected

Here’s a detailed overview of the airlines impacted across the region:

Ben Gurion International Airport (Israel)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 53
• Total Flights Delayed: 0
• Airlines Affected:
  • FlyDubai: 10 cancellations (62% of flights)
  • Aegean Airlines: 8 cancellations (50%)
  • Israir: 7 cancellations
  • United Airlines: 5 cancellations
  • KLM: All flights cancelled
  • Delta Air Lines: All flights cancelled
  • El Al: Total cancellations on select routes
  • Cyprus Airways: Total cancellations on select routes

Dubai International Airport (UAE)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 85
• Total Flights Delayed: 184
• Airlines Affected:
  • FlyDubai: 62 cancellations, 57 delays
  • Emirates: 16 cancellations, 86 delays
  • Air India: Various delays
  • Air India Express: Various delays
  • SpiceJet: Various delays
  • Royal Jordanian: Various delays
  • Mahan Air: 2 cancellations
  • Syrian Arab Airlines: 1 cancellation

Hamad International Airport (Qatar)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 22
• Total Flights Delayed: 83
• Airlines Affected:
  • Qatar Airways: 22 cancellations, 74 delays
  • Finnair: Minor delays
  • China Southern Airlines: Minor delays
  • Jazeera Airways: Minor delays
  • Royal Jordanian: Minor delays

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Turkey)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 15
• Total Flights Delayed: 53
• Airlines Affected:
  • Pegasus Airlines: 15 cancellations, 34 delays
  • Turkish Airlines: 10 delays
  • Smart Lynx: 1 delay
  • Flynas: 1 delay

Summary of Disruptions

• Dubai International (UAE): 269 disruptions
• Hamad International (Qatar): 105 disruptions
• Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (Turkey): 68 disruptions
• Sharjah International (UAE): 57 disruptions
• Ben Gurion (Israel): 53 cancellations

In summary, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has led to a significant surge in flight cancellations and delays, with over 552 flights affected across the Middle East. Travelers now face a volatile environment for air travel, as major airlines scramble to adjust their schedules amid escalating tensions. International aviation authorities are closely monitoring the situation, anticipating further disruptions as military operations continue.

Vietnam Airlines will inaugurate a direct flight service between Hanoi and Milan, Italy, starting July 1, 2025, marking the first time a Vietnamese carrier offers nonstop flights to Italy. The new route will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, enhancing connectivity between Vietnam and Europe.

This milestone expands Vietnam Airlines’ European network to nine direct routes, including existing flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Paris, Frankfurt, London, and soon Munich. The airline also plans to launch a direct Ho Chi Minh City–Milan service after 2025, further strengthening ties between the two countries.

Milan, Italy’s second-largest city and a global fashion and cultural hub, attracts millions of tourists, especially during summer months. Italy is a popular destination for Vietnamese travelers, and visitor numbers from Italy to Vietnam have surged by 155% in 2024, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

The new direct route is expected to boost tourism and facilitate economic, social, and political exchanges between Vietnam and Italy, with ongoing negotiations for a visa waiver for Vietnamese tour groups.

Tickets are now available on Vietnam Airlines’ website and official channels, with promotional fares starting at around USD 810 for round-trip economy tickets in July 2025. Flight VN73 departs Hanoi at 00:45, arriving in Milan at 07:40; the return flight VN72 leaves Milan at 12:45, arriving in Hanoi at 04:35 the next day.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates a modern fleet including Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, A321, and A320neo aircraft, and continues to expand its international services with plans to launch or revive 15 new routes this year.

This new Hanoi-Milan service represents a strategic expansion of Vietnam Airlines’ global network, offering greater travel flexibility and fostering stronger international ties between Vietnam, Italy, and Europe.

Traveling with family can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to navigating airports and ensuring everyone’s comfort. Recognizing the unique needs of families, Air Arabia has introduced a comprehensive range of services aimed at making air travel easier, more convenient, and enjoyable for parents and children alike. From city check-ins and dedicated airport support to onboard entertainment and family-friendly loyalty rewards, Air Arabia is setting a new standard for family travel. Below, discover the key features and benefits designed to make every family journey smooth and memorable.

Check-In and Pre-Departure Convenience

Air Arabia offers families a seamless start to their journey with multiple convenient check-in options. Families can use 13 to 14 city check-in locations across Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah, allowing them to check in and collect boarding passes away from the airport, reducing wait times and stress. Online check-in is also available, enabling families to bypass queues and enjoy a smoother start to their trip.

Dedicated Family Support at the Airport

At Sharjah International Airport, families benefit from dedicated fast-track check-in, expedited boarding, and streamlined immigration and security processing. Porter services are provided to help with luggage, so parents’ hands are free to manage their children. The Meet & Assist package is available for both departures and arrivals, offering a warm greeting, help with airport formalities, fast-track clearance, baggage assistance, and escort services.

Traveling with Infants and Young Children

Air Arabia makes traveling with infants easy by providing onboard bassinets for those seated in the front row—these can be pre-booked via the airline’s website or customer service. Infants as young as three days old are accepted for travel with the proper documentation. Parents can bring an extra hand baggage item (up to 3 kg) for baby essentials. Strollers can be used throughout the airport and are returned upon landing. Every infant must be accompanied by a passenger at least 16 years old, and children under 12 must be accompanied by someone at least 16 years old as well.

Onboard Entertainment and Activities

Onboard, Air Arabia’s complimentary in-flight entertainment system, SkyTime, features a wide range of kid-friendly movies, games, and TV shows, refreshed regularly for new and exciting content. The “Fun Onboard” program offers interactive activities such as coloring books, face painting, and in-flight competitions. Special “Kid Snack Boxes,” packed with treats and drawing sets, keep young travelers entertained. Families can pre-order kid-friendly meals, including options like chicken tenders with mac & cheese and Nutella sandwiches.

Loyalty and Rewards for Families

Air Arabia’s AirRewards loyalty program enhances family travel by allowing up to eight family members to be linked under one account. The family head earns 50% of the points from each member’s flights, helping to accumulate rewards faster and unlock exclusive benefits. The airline’s spacious economy seating and flexible baggage policies further ensure a comfortable and affordable journey for all.

Thoughtful amenities, robust safety measures, and personalized support distinguish Air Arabia’s approach to family travel. These features collectively raise the bar for family-friendly air journeys, ensuring that every trip is both memorable and free from hassle for passengers of all ages.

Etihad Airways has announced a significant expansion of its operations to Karachi, Pakistan, with the introduction of four daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Karachi starting from October 1, 2025. This move will increase the frequency to 28 nonstop flights per week, offering travelers more flexibility and convenience on one of the region’s most popular routes. The enhanced schedule is expected to support both business and leisure travel, catering to the strong demand between the UAE and Pakistan.

Etihad’s flights from Abu Dhabi to Karachi cover a distance of approximately 1,271 kilometers (790 miles), with each direct journey taking around two hours and fifteen minutes. The airline is known for its high standards of comfort across all cabins, including ergonomic seats in Economy and fully flat beds in Business Class, as well as onboard Wi-Fi and a robust in-flight entertainment system. Passengers can also take advantage of Etihad’s convenient home check-in service, premium amenity kits, and attentive service throughout their journey.

Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city and commercial hub, is a vital destination for travelers seeking business opportunities or exploring its vibrant cultural scene. The city’s tropical, semi-arid climate, diverse landscapes, and rich history make it a compelling destination year-round. With the increased frequency, Etihad aims to further strengthen economic and tourism ties between the UAE and Pakistan, providing more options for travelers and contributing to the growing connectivity in the region. For the latest schedules, fares, and booking options, travelers are encouraged to visit Etihad’s official website.

Flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and Karachi from 01 October 2025. All times local

Flight	Frequency	Departure City	Departure Time	Arrival City	Arrival Time
EY292	Daily	Abu Dhabi	07:50	Karachi	11:05
EY293	Daily	Karachi	12:00	Abu Dhabi	13:05
EY294	Daily	Abu Dhabi	14:40	Karachi	17:55
EY295	Daily	Karachi	21:35	Abu Dhabi	22:40
EY296	Daily	Abu Dhabi	23:40	Karachi	03:00
EY297	Daily	Karachi	05:15	Abu Dhabi	06:30
EY298	Daily	Abu Dhabi	02:25	Karachi	05:40
EY299	Daily	Karachi	06:35	Abu Dhabi	07:50

A devastating tragedy unfolded in Ahmedabad on Thursday when Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 people, crashed shortly after takeoff en route to London Gatwick Airport. The crash, which occurred in the densely populated Meghani Nagar neighborhood near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulted in at least 240 fatalities, including passengers, crew, and reportedly some individuals on the ground.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, where images showed towering plumes of black smoke and burning wreckage as rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover bodies and assist survivors.

Remarkably, there was one reported survivor: 40-year-old British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. According to officials and hospital sources, Ramesh had been seated near an emergency exit and managed to escape the burning aircraft by jumping out after the crash. He was found disoriented and with multiple injuries but is reportedly out of danger and receiving treatment at Ahmedabad's Civil Hospital.

Speaking from his hospital bed, Ramesh described the chaos: “When I got up, there were bodies all around me. I was scared. I stood up and ran. There were pieces of the plane all around me. Someone grabbed hold of me and put me in an ambulance and brought me to the hospital,” he told the Hindustan Times.

The doomed flight was carrying a diverse group of passengers: 169 Indians, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian, along with 12 crew members. The aircraft lost contact with air traffic control less than a minute after takeoff, plummeting into a residential area and reportedly striking the dining hall of a medical college hostel, which may have contributed to the high death toll. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow and assured that all possible support was being provided to the victims and their families.

As investigations continue, Air India and government officials have pledged full support for affected families, while the airline’s CEO confirmed that a special team is on the ground to assist with relief efforts. The crash has shocked the nation and the international community, with many awaiting further details as authorities sift through the wreckage in search of answers.