Emirates has announced a significant expansion of its Airbus A350 network, adding seven new destinations across diverse regions including Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. This strategic move aligns with the airline's commitment to enhancing passenger experiences through state-of-the-art aircraft.

New A350 Destinations

The airline will introduce A350 services to the following cities:

1. Tunis, Tunisia: Starting June 1, 2025, with six weekly flights (all days except for Tuesday) on EK 747 & EK 748. This marks the A350's debut in Africa, offering passengers a premium travel experience with Emirates' latest cabin innovations.
2. Amman, Jordan: Daily flights from June 1, 2025, on EK 905 & EK 906. This expansion strengthens Emirates' presence in the Middle East, providing more options for travelers seeking high-quality connectivity.
3. Istanbul, Turkey: Daily flights from July 1, 2025, on EK 117 & EK 118. Istanbul is a key hub in Europe, and the introduction of the A350 will enhance the travel experience for passengers flying between Dubai and Istanbul.
4. Dammam, Saudi Arabia: Daily flights from July 1, 2025, on EK 827 & EK 828. This marks the A350's first deployment in Saudi Arabia, reflecting Emirates' commitment to upgrading its services in the region.
5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Daily flights from August 1, 2025, on EK 364 & EK 365. This is the A350's first foray into Southeast Asia, highlighting Emirates' strategic expansion into new markets.
6. Baghdad, Iraq: Three flights per week from August 3, 2025, on EK 941 & 943. This service will provide enhanced connectivity for passengers traveling between Dubai and Baghdad.
7. Oslo, Norway: Daily flights from September 1, 2025, on EK 159 & EK 160. This marks another European destination added to Emirates' A350 network, offering passengers a premium experience on this route.

Expanded A350 Services

In addition to these new destinations, Emirates will enhance its A350 services on existing routes:

• Bahrain: A third daily flight will be added on June 1, 2025, exclusively operated by the A350. This increases the frequency and quality of services to Bahrain.
• Kuwait: A second A350 flight will be added to the daily rotation EK 857/858. This expansion reflects Emirates' focus on improving connectivity and passenger experience in the Middle East.
• Bologna, Italy: The city will welcome its first A350 on June 1, 2025, one month ahead of the original schedule. This demonstrates Emirates' commitment to upgrading its European services.

A350 Fleet and Features

Emirates has ordered a total of 65 Airbus A350-900s to modernize and diversify its fleet. The A350 aircraft boasts three spacious cabin classes with a total of 312 seats:

• Business Class: 32 lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, offering passengers ultimate comfort and privacy.
• Premium Economy Class: 21 seats designed for enhanced comfort, providing a superior experience compared to standard Economy.
• Economy Class: 259 spacious seats, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers.

The introduction of the A350 marks a significant shift in Emirates' fleet strategy, which had previously relied exclusively on Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s. This expansion aligns with Emirates' broader fleet modernization plan, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

Strategic Importance

This expansion underscores Emirates' focus on leveraging the A350's operational flexibility and efficiency to maintain a competitive edge in the aviation industry. By offering premium travel options and enhanced connectivity across diverse geographies, Emirates solidifies its position as a leading global airline.

Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates Airline, highlighted the strategic importance of this expansion, stating that it allows Emirates to offer more customers expanded premium travel options and unique onboard experiences.

As more A350 aircraft join Emirates' fleet in the coming months, the airline plans to announce additional destinations, including long-haul routes, further solidifying its position as a global aviation leader.

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.

The Emirates Group has announced its strongest financial results ever for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, posting a record pre-tax profit of AED 22.7 billion (US$ 6.2 billion), marking an 18% increase compared to the previous year. The Group’s total revenue climbed 6% to AED 145.4 billion (US$ 39.6 billion), while cash reserves rose by 13% to reach AED 53.4 billion (US$ 14.6 billion).

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) also hit a new high of AED 42.2 billion (US$ 11.5 billion), reflecting strong operational efficiency.

At the forefront, Emirates airline delivered a pre-tax profit of AED 21.2 billion (US$ 5.8 billion), up 20%, alongside record revenues of AED 127.9 billion (US$ 34.9 billion). The airline’s cash holdings increased by 16% to AED 49.7 billion (US$ 13.5 billion). Emirates expanded its route network to 148 cities across 80 countries, introducing new destinations such as Bogotá and Madagascar, while resuming flights to major cities including Phnom Penh, Lagos, Adelaide, and Edinburgh.

The carrier enhanced services to 21 destinations and strengthened its global connectivity through 33 codeshare and 118 interline agreements, providing access to over 1,750 cities worldwide. Passenger and cargo capacity grew by 4% to 60.0 billion Available Ton Kilometers (ATKMs), nearing pre-pandemic levels. The fleet expanded with the addition of Airbus A350 aircraft, bringing the total to 260 planes, with an average fleet age of 10.7 years and a substantial order backlog to support future growth.

Dnata, the Group’s aviation services division, also posted solid gains, recording a pre-tax profit of AED 1.6 billion (US$ 430 million), a 2% increase, and revenues up 10% to AED 21.1 billion (US$ 5.8 billion). The division’s cash reserves stood at AED 3.7 billion (US$ 1 billion).

This fiscal year was the first affected by the UAE’s newly implemented corporate tax, resulting in a 9% tax charge and a net profit after tax of AED 20.5 billion (US$ 5.6 billion). The Emirates Group declared a dividend payout of AED 6.0 billion (US$ 1.6 billion) to its sole shareholder, the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Additionally, employees will benefit from a record bonus equivalent to 22 weeks’ salary.

Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum attributed the Group’s exceptional performance to strong leadership, a resilient business model, and Dubai’s dynamic economic environment. He highlighted plans to reinvest profits into enhancing customer experience, employee welfare, and technological advancements to maintain the Group’s competitive edge.

Emirates’ ongoing network expansion, operational excellence, and premium service focus have solidified its status as the world’s most profitable airline and positioned the Emirates Group as the leading global aviation group for the 2024-25 financial year.

Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry is soaring to new heights, now contributing a staggering SAR340 billion ($90.6 billion) to the national economy—8.5% of the Kingdom’s GDP—according to the latest report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This powerful growth underscores the nation’s ambitious vision to transform into a global aviation powerhouse and top-tier tourist destination.

The IATA’s findings reflect the Kingdom’s strategic investments in infrastructure, talent development, and digital innovation—elements poised to push the aviation sector’s economic contribution even higher in the years ahead. These developments are part of a broader national effort to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil, positioning aviation as a key pillar of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Building a World-Class Air Network

Saudi Arabia is making massive strides to upgrade and expand its aviation infrastructure. Major projects like the expansion of Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport and the construction of a new state-of-the-art airport in Riyadh are designed to significantly boost passenger capacity and enhance the travel experience. These developments aim to draw more international airlines and travelers, cementing the Kingdom’s status as a central hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.

In tandem, the government is embracing advanced digital technologies to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction at its airports. Smart systems for baggage handling, automated check-ins, and cutting-edge security measures are streamlining operations and setting new standards for passenger convenience.

Investing in People, Powering the Future

Recognizing that no industry can thrive without skilled human capital, Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in aviation-focused education and training. IATA’s report emphasizes the importance of developing a workforce that can meet the demands of this rapidly evolving sector. Programs offering scholarships, internships, and specialized training are being rolled out in collaboration with industry and academic partners to prepare the next generation of aviation professionals.

Currently, the aviation industry directly employs 141,000 people and supports 1.4 million jobs across the Kingdom, encompassing everything from air transport to tourism and supply chain services.

Beyond the Runway: Aviation’s Broader Economic Reach

The aviation sector’s economic impact extends far beyond airports and airliners. It plays a catalytic role in fueling related industries such as hospitality, retail, and logistics. As air connectivity improves, tourism flourishes—bringing with it increased demand for hotels, restaurants, and transportation services, and creating a ripple effect of job creation and investment.

Saudi Arabia’s strategic location further enhances its appeal as a global transit hub. Positioned at the intersection of major international travel and trade routes, the Kingdom is uniquely placed to capitalize on rising demand for both passenger and cargo services.

Jazeera Airways has hit cruising altitude on its transformation journey, posting a record-breaking first-quarter net profit of KD4.7 million ($15.33 million) — a staggering 274.8% jump compared to the same period last year.

The Kuwaiti low-cost carrier attributes this milestone to a potent mix of digital transformation, cost optimization, and a laser-sharp focus on revenue diversification. Group operating revenue climbed 15.5% year-on-year to KD53.6 million, as passenger demand soared and the airline continued to expand its footprint.

“This performance demonstrates that our five-year growth plan and focused investments in digital transformation as well as the expansion of our ancillary revenue streams are delivering tangible outcomes,” said Marwan Boodai, Chairman of Jazeera Airways. “Our focus on delivering the lowest unit cost, particularly in aircraft and operational areas, has further reinforced Jazeera’s foundation for sustained profitability.”

Passenger traffic rose 7.7% to 1.2 million in Q1 2025, pushing Jazeera’s market share to 32.3% — securing its position as Kuwait’s largest carrier for the quarter. Ancillary revenues surged by 29.1% to KD5.1 million, reflecting the growing success of the airline’s add-on services.

Q1 2025 Highlights at a Glance:

• Operating Revenue: KD53.6 million (+15.5% YoY)

• Operating Profit: KD6.8 million (+430.7% YoY)

• Net Profit: KD4.7 million (+274.8% YoY)

• Passengers: 1.2 million (+7.7% YoY)

• Ancillary Revenue: KD5.1 million (+29.1% YoY)

• Load Factor: 78.7% (slightly down 0.6%)

Strategic Expansion & Innovation

During the quarter, Jazeera resumed flights to Sarajevo and unveiled its most ambitious summer network to date — launching new routes to Budapest, Sochi, Yerevan, and Hurghada. It also introduced innovative ancillary bundles under the “Hayakom” brand at its dedicated Terminal 5, and flexible travel products like Cancel for Any Reason (CAFR) and Disruption for Any Reason (DAFR).

Digital Transformation and Future-Ready Fleet

Jazeera’s digital strategy is gaining altitude, marked by the rollout of a new Passenger Service System and the first phase of a next-gen Customer Experience and Feedback Intelligence platform. These advancements are set to enhance traveler engagement and operational efficiency.

As part of its fleet modernization, the airline is on course to reconfigure its aircraft to a 180-seat layout by Q4 2025 and is preparing to welcome 26 new aircraft starting in 2026. This includes 18 A320neo and 8 A321neo jets, aimed at fueling its market expansion and boosting e-commerce capabilities.

Leadership and Outlook

Supporting its high-flying ambitions, Jazeera has appointed new leadership, including Captain Ayman Alshammari as Chief Operating Officer, Ginny Sethi as Chief People Officer, and Paul Carroll as Chief Commercial Officer.

With over 700,000 seats slated for the busy summer travel period and major upgrades underway at Terminal 5, Jazeera is poised for continued ascent — solidifying its status as a regional aviation powerhouse.

Qatar Airways announced a significant expansion of its North and South American operations, increasing the number of flights to Toronto and São Paulo starting in June 2025. The move comes in response to strong passenger demand and the growing importance of these cities as global travel hubs.

Beginning June 19, 2025, Qatar Airways will operate five weekly flights between Doha and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), departing every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The summer schedule features Flight QR767 departing Doha at 08:10 and arriving in Toronto at 15:00 local time, while the return Flight QR768 leaves Toronto at 21:00 and lands in Doha at 16:40.

The airline has also confirmed plans to transition to daily service to Toronto during the winter season, with departures from Doha at 08:25, arrivals in Toronto at 14:40, and return flights from Toronto at 20:10, arriving in Doha at 16:55.

From June 25, 2025, Qatar Airways will further expand its presence in South America by increasing its weekly flights to São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) from 14 to 17. The additional flights will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Flight QR785 departs Doha at 00:10 and arrives in São Paulo at 09:00 local time, while the return Flight QR786 leaves São Paulo at 10:30 and arrives in Doha at 06:45.

Qatar Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori, stated that the expansion is driven by robust demand since the launch of the Toronto route in December 2024. Antinori also highlighted São Paulo’s role as a key gateway for both business and leisure travelers, noting that the additional flights will provide greater flexibility and more seamless connections for passengers traveling to over 55 destinations in Latin America, thanks to the airline’s partnership with LATAM Airlines.

These expansions are expected to enhance connectivity through Hamad International Airport, which was recently voted the “World’s Best Airport Shopping” by Skytrax in 2025. The increased frequencies will offer travelers more options and convenience, reinforcing Qatar Airways’ reputation for award-winning service and global reach.