Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's ambitious new state-owned airline, is making a strategic move to establish a strong presence in the Indian market. CEO Tony Douglas is leading a high-level delegation on a crucial visit to India from March 12 to 14, 2025, just months before the airline's anticipated launch later this year.

The delegation's primary objective is to explore potential partnerships and strengthen aviation ties between Saudi Arabia and India, recognizing the latter's growing importance as a key market for the airline's expansion plans.

During their visit, the Riyadh Air team will engage in a series of high-stakes meetings with various stakeholders in the Indian aviation sector. Notably, they will meet with officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to secure the necessary regulatory approvals for launching operations in India.

Additionally, Douglas is scheduled to hold discussions with representatives from India's two largest airlines, Air India and IndiGo, to explore possible collaborations that could enhance connectivity between the two nations.

This strategic initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader Vision 2030 economic transformation plan, which aims to position India as its largest tourism source market by the end of the decade.

The Saudi Tourism Authority has set an ambitious target of welcoming 7.5 million Indian visitors annually by 2030, capitalizing on the remarkable 50% surge in Indian travelers to Saudi Arabia in 2023, which exceeded 1.5 million visitors. 

To support this goal, Riyadh Air has already taken a significant step by appointing Bird Travels as its exclusive distribution and sales partner in India, leveraging the company's extensive network and deep understanding of the Indian travel landscape.

As Riyadh Air prepares for its commercial launch, the airline is actively expanding its fleet and route network. The carrier plans to operate a mix of narrow-body A321 neos and wide-body B787-9 Dreamliners, with ongoing discussions for additional wide-body aircraft from Boeing and Airbus.

With its sights set on connecting Saudi Arabia to over 100 global destinations by 2030, Riyadh Air's focus on the Indian market underscores the growing importance of the country in the global aviation landscape and the potential for enhanced economic and cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and India.

Qatar Airways has announced plans to enhance its service to Manchester, UK, by adding three more flights per week starting from June 4, 2025. This expansion is driven by growing demand for the airline ahead of the summer season. The increased frequency will raise the total weekly flights from 21 to 24, providing passengers with greater flexibility and comfort when traveling to Manchester.

The flights will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, utilizing the airline's state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000s and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. This move is part of Qatar Airways' strategy to strengthen connectivity between Manchester, known as the "Capital of the North," and its global network, including key markets like Australia.

The airline, voted the Best Airline in the World by Skytrax in 2024, has been serving Manchester since 2003 and continues to enhance its offerings through its award-winning hub, Hamad International Airport.

The increased service will not only benefit travelers heading to Manchester but also those connecting through Doha to other destinations worldwide. Qatar Airways' Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori, highlighted the importance of enhancing connectivity to Manchester, emphasizing the city's cultural and economic significance.

Manchester is renowned for its rich history, vibrant music scene, and iconic football teams, making it a popular destination for both leisure and business travelers. With this expansion, Qatar Airways reinforces its commitment to providing superior travel experiences and seamless connections for its global customer base. Bookings for the additional Manchester flights can be made through the airline's website or mobile app.

Etihad Airways has announced the addition of Peshawar, Pakistan, to its growing network, marking the airline's fourth destination in the country alongside Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. Starting September 29, 2025, the new route will connect Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW) in Peshawar.

Initially operating five times a week, the service will expand to daily flights from November 22, 2025. The flights will be operated using Airbus A320 aircraft, featuring eight Business Class and 150 Economy Class seats, ensuring passengers enjoy Etihad’s renowned onboard service.

Peshawar, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is expected to attract both business travelers and tourists. Key attractions such as the Peshawar Museum, Mahabat Khan Mosque, and Qissa Khawani Bazaar make it an appealing destination. Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, expressed excitement about the expansion, stating that the new route underscores the airline's commitment to enhancing connectivity between Pakistan and global destinations across the Gulf, Africa, Europe, and North America.

The Peshawar route is part of Etihad’s ambitious network expansion for 2025, which includes 16 new destinations such as Tunis, Prague, Warsaw, Addis Ababa, and Atlanta. Additionally, the airline is increasing flight frequencies to major European cities like Paris, Milan, Frankfurt, and Zurich. Passengers traveling through Abu Dhabi can also benefit from Etihad’s Stopover Programme, offering up to two complimentary nights at premium hotels. This strategic growth reflects Etihad’s dedication to providing seamless travel options for its customers worldwide.

Flight Schedule: Abu Dhabi to Peshawar (Starting September 29, 2025)

• Flight Number: EY 276

  • Departure Airport: Abu Dhabi

  • Departure Time: 02:45

  • Arrival Airport: Peshawar

  • Arrival Time: 06:55

  • Frequency: Operates on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday

  • Aircraft Type: Airbus A320 / 32T

• Flight Number: EY 277

  • Departure Airport: Peshawar

  • Departure Time: 08:50

  • Arrival Airport: Abu Dhabi

  • Arrival Time: 11:15

  • Frequency: Operates on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday

  • Aircraft Type: Airbus A320 / 32T

Updated Daily Flight Schedule (Effective November 22, 2025)

• Flight Number: EY 276

  • Departure Airport: Abu Dhabi

  • Departure Time: 02:45

  • Arrival Airport: Peshawar

  • Arrival Time: 06:55

  • Frequency: Daily Service

  • Aircraft Type: Airbus A320 / 32T

• Flight Number: EY 277

  • Departure Airport: Peshawar

  • Departure Time: 08:50

  • Arrival Airport: Abu Dhabi

  • Arrival Time: 11:15

  • Frequency: Daily Service

  • Aircraft Type: Airbus A320 / 32T

Note: All times listed are local.

British Airways has officially launched its Summer 2025 schedule, reintroducing direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Tbilisi, Georgia—two destinations that had been absent from its route map for years. The new routes aim to enhance connectivity between the UK and Asia while offering travelers expanded options for leisure and business trips.

Kuala Lumpur: A Gateway to Asia-Pacific

Flights to Kuala Lumpur resumed on April 1, 2025, marking the airline's return to Malaysia after a five-year hiatus. The daily service departs London Heathrow at 9:10 PM local time and arrives at Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 5:20 PM the following day. Operated by Boeing 787-900 aircraft, passengers can select from four cabin classes: World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), Club World (business), and First.

Return fares start at £574. British Airways has also expanded its codeshare partnership with Malaysia Airlines, enabling seamless connections to over 17 destinations across the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, New Zealand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Tbilisi: Europe Meets Asia

The Georgian capital of Tbilisi returns to British Airways’ route network after a 12-year gap. Flights operate four times weekly from London Heathrow, departing at 9:25 PM local time and arriving at Tbilisi International Airport at 5:30 AM the next day. The service offers two cabin options: Club Europe (business class) and Euro Traveller (economy), with fares starting from £244.

Georgia’s rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and claim as the birthplace of wine—boasting an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition—make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking unique experiences.

Expanded Network Highlights

Beyond Kuala Lumpur and Tbilisi, British Airways has increased its flight frequency to Tokyo Haneda Airport, now operating twice daily for a total of 14 weekly flights. These services utilize Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 787-900 aircraft with three cabin options.

Additionally, the airline will launch three new routes to Italy next month: Rimini from London Heathrow (starting May 15), Salerno from London Gatwick (starting May 22), and Olbia from London City Airport (starting May 25). British Airways is also boosting capacity on its Riyadh route, adding over 80,000 seats compared to last year.

Neil Chernoff, Chief Planning and Strategy Officer for British Airways, expressed enthusiasm for the expanded schedule: “We’re delighted to welcome Malaysia and Georgia back to our network… These new routes mean more choice for customers traveling for work or pleasure across Europe, Asia, and beyond.” With these additions, British Airways continues to strengthen its global reach while offering passengers enhanced travel experiences.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is on the cusp of a historic financial turnaround, poised to report its first annual profit in over two decades. This remarkable recovery follows an extensive restructuring process initiated in 2023, during which the Pakistani government removed Rs671 billion worth of liabilities from PIA's balance sheet.

These liabilities included Rs268.7 billion in bank debt, Rs170 billion in government debt, Rs188.3 billion in legacy operating liabilities, Rs44 billion in employee liabilities, and Rs26 billion in non-core assets. As a result, PIA's negative equity dramatically decreased from Rs698 billion to just Rs45 billion by April 2024, alleviating the airline from its heavy debt servicing burden that previously consumed one-third of its cash inflow.

The airline's management attributes this turnaround to targeted reforms implemented over the past three years. A key component was a 30% reduction in the workforce, bringing the total number of employees to 7,104 as of February 2025. Additionally, PIA withdrew from loss-making international routes and improved aircraft utilization to enhance operational efficiency.

These operational reforms, combined with the financial restructuring, have positioned PIA for profitability after years of struggling with significant financial losses. The airline's return to profitability is a significant achievement, especially considering it had reported a loss of Rs104.5 billion in 2023.

PIA's financial recovery has also reignited privatization efforts. The government has transferred approximately 75% of PIA's liabilities to state books, making the airline more attractive to potential investors. Several parties that had previously shown interest have reengaged with the process, and the Privatization Commission expects initial bids later this month.

Secretary Usman Bajwa has expressed optimism about receiving binding offers, indicating a positive outlook for the privatization process. However, privatization remains a contentious issue in Pakistan, facing strong opposition from labor unions and nationalist political parties.

The government's divide and sell strategy, which involves isolating PIA's liabilities from its core airline business through the creation of PIA Holding Co., aims to make the airline more appealing to investors while ensuring operational stability.

Despite the positive financial outlook, PIA still faces significant challenges. The airline operates with a limited fleet, as only 19 out of 32 aircraft are currently in service, with six out of 12 Boeing 777s grounded due to financial constraints. Additionally, employee concerns and political sensitivities surrounding privatization continue to pose hurdles.

The ITF and its affiliated unions have called for a halt to the privatization process until meaningful dialogue with trade unions occurs. As PIA moves towards profitability, it has begun expanding its operations, resuming flights to Skardu from key cities and planning to restore key international routes.

The airline's future success will depend on addressing these ongoing challenges, maintaining operational improvements, and navigating the complex political landscape surrounding the national carrier's future.

The government's efforts to privatize PIA are also influenced by external pressures, particularly from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has emphasized the need to divest loss-making state-owned enterprises. This pressure underscores the importance of PIA's financial recovery and privatization in the broader context of Pakistan's economic reforms.

As PIA continues on its path towards financial stability and potential private sector involvement, it sets the stage for a potential transformation of Pakistan's aviation landscape. The success of this transformation will not only impact PIA but also contribute to the country's economic development and competitiveness in the global aviation industry.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital’s first low-cost airline, has announced the launch of a new non-stop route connecting Abu Dhabi to Almaty, Kazakhstan. The service is set to commence on June 3, 2025, and will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Flights will depart from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport at 9:20 AM local time and arrive in Almaty at 2:35 PM.

Return flights will leave Almaty at 3:35 PM, landing back in Abu Dhabi by 7:20 PM. The route will be serviced by Airbus A320 aircraft, offering passengers modern amenities such as free in-flight streaming through 'SkyTime' and affordable onboard dining with 'SkyCafe'.

This new route marks a significant milestone for Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, increasing its network to 30 destinations and enhancing connectivity between the UAE and international markets. Almaty, known for its picturesque natural landscapes, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage, is expected to attract both leisure and business travelers.

The city offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions, including the Green Market, Panfilov Park, and the stunning Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia, emphasized the airline's commitment to providing affordable travel options while supporting Abu Dhabi’s growth as a hub for tourism and business.

Here are some key details about the new route:

• Launch Date: June 3, 2025

• Frequency: Three times a week (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays)

• Departure and Arrival Times:

  • Departure from Abu Dhabi: 9:20 AM local time

  • Arrival in Almaty: 2:35 PM

  • Departure from Almaty: 3:35 PM

  • Arrival back in Abu Dhabi: 7:20 PM

• Aircraft: Airbus A320, known for its comfort and efficiency

• Amenities:

  • 'SkyTime' for in-flight entertainment, offering a variety of movies, TV shows, and music

  • 'SkyCafe' for onboard dining, providing a range of snacks and meals at affordable prices

• Booking Options: Passengers can book their flights through Air Arabia’s website, call center, or travel agencies

• Ticket Prices: Starting from AED 298 for one-way trips, offering competitive pricing for travelers

• Loyalty Program: 'Air Rewards' allows customers to earn and redeem points for added value, such as free flights or upgrades

• Travel Documents: Passengers are advised to check visa requirements for Kazakhstan and ensure they have all necessary travel documents before departure

• Baggage Allowance: Economy class passengers are entitled to one piece of checked baggage up to 32 kg and one piece of hand luggage up to 10 kg

This new service is anticipated to foster stronger tourism and trade ties between Abu Dhabi and Almaty while providing travelers with greater convenience and choice. The route is expected to attract tourists interested in exploring Kazakhstan's natural beauty and cultural sites, as well as business travelers looking to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the region.