Search Results foraviation
Shuttered: The potential impact of recent closures on the global aviation sector
At this time last year, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) declared that the global aviation sector had fully recovered from the impact of the pandemic, seeing how passenger traffic and revenues recorded in February 2024 already surpassed the total from 2019. However, there seems to be a reversal of fortunes in global aviation: over the past 12 months (and, indeed, the past few weeks alone), we’ve seen several airlines terminate their operations or whose assets have gone into administration. Just last week, Qantas Group announced the closure of Jetstar Asia; while Silver Airways in the US was bought out and its new owners shocked passengers through the immediate cessation of flights. Given how a significant number of these closures have involved low-cost carriers (LCCs) which have, over the past decade, been responsible for the massive surge in commercial passenger traffic, could these closures have a significant impact on the world of commercial aviation? First of all, why are companies shuttering their airlines? Industry professionals attending this year's Paris Air Show which runs till Sunday, 22nd June, have gone on record to say that there is a great deal of tension in the air at the event. While it's understandable in light of the recent airstrikes seen in the Middle East which led to the shuttering of the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) booth by the French government, as well as the disaster that was Air India Flight 171, the recent closures of Silver Airways, Jetstar Asia, and THAI Smile have made professionals wonder if the global aviation sector needs to do some considerable rethinking on the corporate side. Running an airline means getting involved with a business that calls for substantial investment for constant innovation, a significant amount of manpower, and an equally significant outlay for operational expenses. Costs are definitely a cause for concern, given how the industry is known for its high fixed and variable costs, especially where fuel, human resources, and maintenance are concerned. At the same time, especially following the reopening of the world post-pandemic, competition in the industry is fiercer than ever, and this can seriously impact the prices airlines offer to potential passengers, as well as their overall bottom line. Also, external factors need to be taken into account: public health issues like pandemics rank high among these as they lead to the closure of international borders; international armed conflict is another, along with environmental factors such as greater turbulence and stronger storms that have resulted from climate change. What needs to be done? Based on our observations of recent trends in global aviation, we would like to point out several things that airlines may need to seriously consider in order to stay afloat in today's increasingly competitive industry. First of all, especially in light of air accidents and armed conflict in international airspaces, flight safety and security are the main points of consideration. Admittedly, aircraft maintenance is one of the biggest expenses for any airline, but it is an area where cutting costs may prove fatal for not only for the passengers and crew onboard, but also the airline itself. Inability to safeguard the overall wellbeing of passengers and crew through basic maintenance has been the death knell for several airlines throughout the history of the corporate aviation sector, so constant vigilance and proper investment into relevant modalities are a necessity rather than a mere option. Second, service matters; over the past several years, one of the more adverse things said about Jetstar Asia was that the quality of its inflight services needed some serious revamping. Experts point out that, in terms of service quality, there ought to be no difference between that offered by the crew of a full-service airline and that of an LCC. While there can be disparity with regard to amenities offered, treating passengers with cordiality and compassion is something many people keep an eye on when flying. That said, maybe airline need to rethink their training strategies for their inflight crews. Third, could codeshare agreements be in your airline's future? Tying up with other key players in the industry has enabled a number of airlines to expand their offerings without too great an outlay on fleet or network expansion. Codeshare agreements also serve to promote airlines to their partners' core markets, and this also cuts down on marketing costs. Fourth, innovation is always key. Staying abreast of current trends in the industry is all well and good, but if you're not looking into these to boost the performance of your airline, then you need to rethink your strategy. Going back to item number one on this list, innovation is also a way by which airlines can boost the overall safety of their aircraft, on top of fuel efficiency, speed, and passenger comfort. And speaking of fuel efficiency, sustainability and environmental adjustments come in fifth on our list. While the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is still in its early stages and the cost of both production and procurement remain considerably expensive, it will go a long way in terms of improving engine flight performance on top of reducing an airline's carbon footprint. Also, with regard to item number four on innovation, taking environmentally-driven design will also be a key consideration in the future, protecting aircraft from the buffeting of severe turbulence and more intense weather conditions.
Does the global aviation sector need to retool its flight safety measures?
While global aviation has recovered significantly since travel restrictions began to be relaxed in 2022, the sector is feeling the strain following several high-visibility incidents that have shaken passengers the world over. Just yesterday, we saw the crash of Air India Flight 171 just minutes after takeoff on its way to London; in April, American Airlines Flight 5342 fatally collided with a US Army helicopter over the Potomac River. Yesterday’s incident also brought back the harrowing memory of the Jeju Air crash landing towards the end of 2024, particularly because both ill-fated flights were operated with Boeing aircraft. But regardless of which aerospace manufacturers produced their aircraft, airlines throughout the globe see these incidents as a wake-up call when it comes to beefing up their safety measures and protocols. Syncing professional associations In a November 2024 report that was updated in January of this year, Austrian consultancy Skylift Aviation pointed out that global harmonisation of aviation safety standards was something that various organisations need to take seriously. This would, for example, involve collaboration on the part of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to align safety frameworks across countries. Such measures include initiatives like ICAO’s Global Aviation Safety Plan (GASP) which emphasises data-driven decision-making, proactive risk management, as well as safety performance improvements. Through similar proactive measures already in place, ICAO noted a reduction in global air accident rates in 2022 to around 2.6 per one million departures compared to the 4.2 per million seen in 2013. Pattern identification matters Another key measure that airlines and aerospace firms need to look into is being able to identify flaw patterns in aircraft through data collection and analysis. Through systems like the Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing programme, stakeholders rely on comprehensive data collection and analyses in order to identify risks well before they turn into critical issues. Indeed, the use of real-time data from Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) systems has been a great help towards the development of preventive strategies which have enabled airlines to take a proactive approach regarding potential issues. All too human However, no matter how much airlines and airports invest in cutting-edge technologies, it cannot be denied that up to 80 percent of all aviation accidents were caused by human error. Indeed, in a 2019 piece for the International Airport Review, AVCON chief executive Wayne Anaka remarked: “We know what to do but somehow the system is not working. It is not that the accountants ignore the cost. It is not because senior management does not put a focus on costs. It is not that front-line management and workers do not care. So, what is going wrong?” He went on to list five key factors that have led to disastrous error on the part of staff both on the ground and in the air: Staff shortages have led to an overworked team whose fatigue on both physical and mental levels has led to critical errors of judgement. This was true well before the pandemic, but even truer now given the way airport and airline staff are wearing themselves out; There were training deficiencies caused by high turnover and instructors struggled to keep up. Even now, there is a shortage of qualified trainers and safety training materials need a major revision; Many accidents are the result of key personnel breaking critical rules, something that was driven to a lack of oversight in key areas; Prior to the pandemic, a number of airlines and airports pushed for on-time performance, and supervisors under pressure would end up cutting corners, particularly where safety was concerned; and This “bottom-line” mentality where profit was given higher priority than either safety or customer satisfaction led to cost-cutting in terms of employee wages, safety measures, and equipment maintenance, essentially brewing a perfect storm leading to accidents. What now? Anaka said that the problem is that both airlines and airports have focused on the wrong things, thus compromising the safety of passengers, staff, and aircraft. In which case, he saw a need for these establishments to examine the root causes behind incidents, including poor communication; lack of respect; lack of discipline; and slack enforcement of safety protocols. But while addressing the issues behind human errors in aviation is certainly important, would it be possible for technology to replace human workers in terms of aviation safety in order to prevent future accidents? The answer is not a cut and dried yes or no; nor will we see a tangible answer within the near future. In a February 2025 interview with Al-Jazeera, Airport AI Exchange’s chief officer for artificial intelligence Amad Malik said: “When it comes to aviation, there’s a lot of advancement in AI, even though a lot of that has not trickled through to commercial aviation because of the processes and certification. The way the regulations are set up is that years and years of data are required before you can use anything in the commercial landscape. What we do have right now is something that started in the 1960s!” Despite this rather pessimistic point of view, LYTE Aviation’s founder and chief executive Freshta Farzam pointed out that developers are already doing a lot with regard to the application of AI in aviation safety, and there is a great deal more already in the pipeline. Farzam said: “AI is already playing a crucial role in reducing aviation accidents and loss of life by improving situational awareness, predictive maintenance and decision-making processes. In air traffic control and collision avoidance, AI is helping out tremendously.” How could AI make aviation safer? Innovative technologies like AI will certainly be instrumental in revolutionising aviation safety the world over. To date, there are already a number of advancements that have been put to practical use both aboard aircraft and with ground control. These include: Predictive Maintenance: AI systems can monitor aircraft health in real-time, identifying issues before they lead to costly delays. This helps airlines minimize downtime and save millions on maintenance costs; Autonomous Flight Systems: Advances in AI are enhancing autopilot technology, moving us closer to fully autonomous commercial flights. New AI models improve in-flight decision-making and optimize routes with less human input; and Air Traffic Management: AI improves air traffic control by analyzing real-time data, reducing congestion and enhancing flight safety. More efficient airspace management could significantly decrease delays.
East London students win London City Airport’s fifth Women in Aviation challenge
A group of east London students have won London City Airport’s fifth Women in Aviation programme after taking part in a sustainability challenge. The award, which was presented at the finale event held on Wednesday, 21st May at the Sunborn London Yacht Hotel in Royal Victoria Dock, is part of the airport’s ‘Women in Aviation Programme’ – a three-month education programme where up to 300 young women from 10 schools across east London participated. A panel of judges comprised of industry experts awarded the winning group with vouchers and a special airside tour of the airport. The group, from Bow School, Tower Hamlets, demonstrated innovative ideas on how to make the passenger journey sustainable from home to destination, including using new technology and AI for waste management processes, and integrating renewable energy into the transport and infrastructure network. The Palmer Catholic Academy in Redbridge also showcased some excellent ideas and came runners up. The students were joined by role models from across the industry who gave careers talks, including London City Airport’s CEO, Alison FitzGerald; Lizzie Beale, Senior Policy Advisor in Aviation Decarbonisation for the Department for Transport (DfT); Embraer’s VP Sales and Marketing for Europe and Central Asia, Marie-Louise Phillipe; and British Airways CityFlyer’s Analytics and Insights Manager, Claire O’Toole. A number of local councillors also attended the event, including Newham’s Vice Chair for Local Development Committee and Barking & Dagenham’s Cabinet Member for Community Leadership & Engagement. Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, said: “I’d like to congratulate all the young women who took part in this year’s programme, which was one of the most energetic and engaging events to date. "It was inspiring to see the creativity and enthusiasm of these young women as they tackled some of our sector’s most pressing sustainability challenges.” The aim of the programme is to showcase how Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects can provide solutions to the challenges facing the aviation industry and encourage more local young women to be inspired into careers in the sector. The ‘Women in Aviation’ programme is part of the airport’s wider programme to create a better gender balance across the business and show how the sector offers an attractive career path for young women, including those from BAME communities. London City Airport is one of the London Borough of Newham’s largest single-site employers. Over two thirds of the airport’s workforce live within five miles of the airport from its location in the heart of London’s Royal Docks.
Thai Airways signs lease agreement with BOC Aviation
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) signed a lease agreement with BOC Aviation Limited for five new Airbus A321neo aircraft today, 16th May at THAI’s head office. This new agreement strengthens a 15-year partnership and further enhances THAI’s narrowbody fleet. THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri and BOC Aviation chief executive and managing director Steven Townend signed the agreement. The event was witnessed by airline chief finance and accounting officer Cherdchome Therdsteerasukdi; BOC Aviation’s head of airline leasing and sales in APAC and the Middle East Michael-John Burke; BOC head of investor relations and corporate communications Timothy Ross; and senior vice-president for airline leasing and sales in APAC and the Middle East Ali Jahanshahi. What the agreement entails This agreement represents a significant milestone in THAI’s fleet modernization strategy. The introduction of the Airbus A321neo aligns with the airline’s Long-Term Fleet Plan, which aims to meet growing passenger demand and expand operational capacity. The Airbus A321neo delivers advanced capabilities that support both the airline’s short- and medium-haul expansion strategy and its commitment to operational efficiency. With its new-generation engines and aerodynamic improvements, the A321neo achieves significantly lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft, directly contributing to THAI’s environmental sustainability goals. The aircraft also offers enhanced passenger comfort with a modern two-class cabin configuration, bringing a widebody-like experience to narrowbody routes, ensuring a consistent and high-quality product offering across THAI’s network.
Saudi Arabia’s flynas raises $1.1 billion in landmark IPO, marking Gulf aviation’s first listing in nearly 20 years
Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline flynas has raised approximately SAR4.1 billion (USD1.1 billion) in a heavily oversubscribed initial public offering (IPO) beginning of this week, in what marks the first Gulf airline listing in nearly two decades. The offering saw 51.26 million shares — representing a 30% stake in the carrier — snapped up within minutes of the books opening on the Tadāwul Stock Exchange. Shares were priced between SAR76 and SAR80 (USD20.30–21.33), implying a total market capitalization of between SAR13 billion and SAR13.7 billion (USD3.47–3.65 billion) at listing. Of the shares sold, 10.2% are newly issued, while the remainder were offered by existing shareholders including Kingdom Holding Company, led by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, and National Flight Services Co. Proceeds from the newly issued shares will be directed toward fleet expansion and network growth — core to the airline’s Vision 2030-aligned ambitions. Existing shareholder proceeds will return to the sellers. “This IPO is a strategic step that will accelerate the execution of our growth ambitions and solidify our position as the leading low-cost carrier for short and medium-haul flights across the Middle East and North Africa by 2030,” said CEO Bander Almohanna. Founded in 2007 as nasair, flynas currently operates a 71-strong all-Airbus fleet, including A320-200s, A320neo jets, and A330-300s, serving 74 airports across 34 countries. The carrier has a robust order book of 153 aircraft as it prepares for a wider regional push, including underserved international markets. In 2024, flynas reported a net profit of SAR434 million (USD115.7 million). “Our ambitious fleet expansion, including the addition of wide-body aircraft, will further support our growth across all key segments,” Almohanna added. “We remain focused on strengthening our market share on key domestic routes while strategically expanding our international footprint.” The flynas IPO arrives at a time of growing investor appetite for aviation in the Middle East, as regional carriers capitalize on surging demand post-COVID and governments push for air connectivity as a key economic pillar. It also sets the stage for a wave of aviation listings, with Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways expected to pursue its own USD1 billion IPO later this year.
inter aviation Arabia to be held in February 2026
Events and exhibitions firm Reed Exhibitions (RX) announced the launch of inter aviation Arabia, a new aviation trade event that is slated to be held in Riyadh in February of next year. The event aims to become one of the leading platforms for the aviation industry in the Middle East, significantly contributing to advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its transformation into a global aviation and logistics hub. According to RX’s managing director for the Middle East and emerging markets Vasyl Zhygalo: “inter aviation Arabia is launching during a significant period of transformation in the aviation sector, both regionally and globally. Our aim is to establish a platform that fosters strategic dialogue, investment, and innovation, ultimately driving meaningful outcomes for the industry while supporting Saudi Arabia’s goals of becoming a global aviation hub. We look forward to providing the industry with more details in the coming months.” What’s inter aviation Arabia all about? The event will focus on four key pillars: airport investments, infrastructure, equipment, and airline route development. Together, these pillars represent the essential components of a modern and resilient aviation ecosystem. As global air travel continues to grow, advancements in ground support technology, terminal automation, and sustainable operations are transforming equipment standards. Meanwhile, infrastructure and route development remain crucial for capacity expansion and operational efficiency. With optimal conditions for commercial engagement and market growth, inter aviation Arabia will draw a high-quality international audience of decision-makers, including executives from airports and airlines, air cargo carriers, and aviation technology providers. Attendees can expect a world-class showcase of products, live technology demonstrations, and an extensive programme of technical seminars that explore the latest developments in aviation efficiency and innovation. Zhygalo said: “inter aviation Arabia leverages RX’s vast aviation event expertise, enhancing its dedication to connecting industry leaders with new opportunities in both emerging and established markets.”
The growing importance of cybersecurity in aviation and how to navigate it successfully
Representative Image The aviation industry's embrace of digital technologies is enabling it to meet growing demand, enhance efficiency, and deliver stakeholder satisfaction. Take biometric data. According to research by SITA, an IT provider for the air transport industry, the use of biometric check-in and bag drop, coupled with the adoption of biometric ID management systems by airlines, will reduce wait times by up to 60% in 2026. It is benefits like these that led airlines to spend $37 billion on IT last year. Yet these advantages in customer experience, efficiency and sustainability are counterbalanced with risk. The aviation industry is uniquely vulnerable to cyber attacks, and developing a comprehensive and viable approach to cybersecurity is a must. Mindaugas Rainys, Chief Executive Officer at Aerviva, outlines the key challenges cybersecurity presents for the sector, and how companies can navigate them. What cybersecurity risks do aviation companies face? "Aviation is vulnerable to cyber attacks from a range of bad actors. These can be hacktivists, criminal hackers, state actors, terrorists and more. Attackers look for vulnerabilities in a system, which could include software, hardware, network connectivity or people, and then either gather information or actually transmit signals or data," explains Rainys. The aviation industry has a history of such attacks dating back over a quarter of a century. In 1997, a teenager exposed a weakness in the airport’s system at Worcester, Massachusetts through a denial-of-service attack. In the last decade, hackers have targeted US airport computer and communications systems, disabled flight plans out of Warsaw airport, and shared the credit card and passport details of 9.4 million Cathay Pacific customers. Perhaps most worryingly, in 2015 a cybersecurity consultant was able to hack onboard computer systems to control an engine during flight. "The threat of cyber attacks has been an issue for decades, and is becoming more acute as digital technologies are now embedded into our sector. Digitalisation is having a big impact on customer experience and behind-the-scenes infrastructure. AI and predictive analytics are delivering significant results in terms of improving sustainability and operational efficiency," explains Rainys. This puts pressure on IT systems, especially as passenger numbers increase. 74% of airlines forecast an increase in overall IT spend over the next two years, according to SITA’s 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report, with 66% mentioning cybersecurity as one of their top three areas of focus. Aviation's unique cybersecurity challenges Focusing on cybersecurity is one thing. Getting it right is another, especially when it comes to the aviation sector. "As the ICAO has pointed out in its guidance on cybersecurity, this is a highly complex industry that has very high levels of interconnectivity. This means even a minor cyber attack can have an oversized impact because of knock-on effects," comments Rainys. The stakes are also high. Aviation plays a critical role in business and tourism, with whole regions impacted by disruption to continuity of services. Then there is the safety and security of people and facilities, which must always remain a top priority. "Unfortunately, this combination of interconnectivity and high impact makes aviation a natural target for cyber criminals. Keeping such a complex ecosystem protected is difficult. Meanwhile, attackers only need to find one vulnerability and they can increasingly do so using readily available and powerful tools. Therefore, effective cybersecurity in our sector requires a clear strategy, the right technologies, and well-trained staff," explains Rainys. An effective cybersecurity strategy The ICAO's Aviation Cybersecurity Strategy offers a good starting point for formulating your own approach to cybersecurity. It consists of 7 pillars, 5 of which focus on coordination in our sector at the macro level (International cooperation; Governance; Effective legislation and regulations; Cybersecurity policy; and Information sharing). Its final 2 pillars relate to individual companies and organisations. "Firstly, there is Incident management and emergency planning: this refers to companies being prepared to effectively handle and swiftly resolve cyber attacks. And secondly, there is Capacity building, training and cybersecurity culture. This is about the proactive steps you take to ensure no attacks occur. Building on the ICAO's guidance, regulations from both the EASA and the FAA require companies to proactively assess potential cyber vulnerabilities and take steps to mitigate them," explains Rainys. To meet these requirements, you need a robust strategy with the right technology and infrastructure in place. Companies are already investing, with the global market for aviation cybersecurity set to reach $6.5 billion by 2028, according to a recent IMARC Group report. In terms of where to focus, the Security Council of the US National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) recommends that companies assess risk levels for aircraft and mobile devices based on location and operation. It also advises formulating clear policy on how flight data is used, stored and shared, and best practices for device usage. Cybersecurity-savvy personnel "Even if you have the right strategy and technology in place, if your people are not conscious of cybersecurity and trained in how to prevent it, you won't succeed," argues Rainys. “Not everyone in aviation can be expected to have the same perspective as a cybersecurity professional, but for companies aspects like data security should never be just an afterthought," explains Rainys. "Air traffic controllers work with incredibly sensitive in-flight data, and must be cognizant of the potential risks in terms of cybersecurity. Meanwhile, pilots need to be prepared to deal with cyber attacks in flight. E-enabled aircraft bring improved efficiency and convenience via integrated IT networks. They also increase the potential risk. Manufacturers like Raytheon have developed cyber attack warning systems that inform pilots of a cyber intrusion. However, it is still up to the pilot to make the correct decision at that moment, which means an understanding of potential cyber threats is essential," adds Rainys. Aircraft maintenance specialists should also be trained in the potential risks of cyber attacks, especially in terms of proactive mitigation. Maintenance systems and MRO vendors are being actively targeted by cyber criminals as they represent a potential stepping stone for malware to be introduced into a carrier's IT system. On the other hand, such well-established aviation players as Lufthansa Industry Solutions are developing and promoting solutions that increase cyber-resilience, like penetration testing. An issue that is not going anywhere Digitalisation is only going to increase in the aviation sector, as airports, airlines and other stakeholders continue to leverage technology to improve efficiency, sustainability and performance. This year, the IATA has launched Digital Aircraft Operations, an initiative aimed at supporting airlines in implementing more digital solutions for areas including flight operations, air traffic management, and ground operations. "This ongoing digitalisation will further increase the complexity of our sector, amplifying the need for robust cybersecurity. We also have to remember bad actors are always looking for new angles of attack, which means standing still is not an option. However, I am confident we will rise to meet this ongoing threat. The aviation sector has navigated a century of rapid change and development, and is more than capable of meeting the ongoing challenge of cybersecurity. All we need is the right strategy and a strong focus on talent," concludes Rainys.
GBA holds ‘GBA Aviation Experience Day 2025’
Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) organises aviation experience day to help underprivileged students strive and rise Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) organised the “GBA Aviation Experience Day 2025” for about 40 secondary school students from underprivileged families in Hong Kong in full support of the Strive and Rise Programme Alumni Club. This full-day tour was the airline’s first activity specially designed for the Strive and Rise Programme led by Mr Chan Kwok-ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the Hong Kong SAR Government. A number of fun and interactive sessions were arranged to give the students a better understanding of the operations of an airline. The mentee graduates travelled to GBA’s training facilities in Donghai Airlines headquarters in Shenzhen for the activity where they were given a comprehensive orientation of the airline’s operations. Presented in a fun and interactive way, the sessions aimed to inspire them through a wide range of topics from the day-to-day duties of flight operations and inflight services to the flight simulator training for pilots, and from the emergency procedure demonstrations using the motion mock-up to the sharing on career prospect with an airline. Students were shown how the fuselage checking procedures are conducted. Liza Ng, Chief Executive Officer of GBA, said: “We are very honoured and excited to collaborate with the Chief Secretary for Administration’s Office and Social Welfare Department on this meaningful programme. As a corporate citizen, we are committed to contributing to the well-being of the community where we live and work. Young people are the future of society and we all have a role to play in their whole person development.” Some hands-on experience in a flight simulator for pilot training as instructed by a GBA captain “GBA is the youngest airline in Hong Kong, yet it is expanding fast and is now one of the popular airlines in the city and around the region. We hope the aviation experience day help the students get a better understanding of the operations of an airline and how it helps Hong Kong reinforce its status as an international aviation hub. I am also very grateful to see that some of the students are ambitious about choosing aviation as their future career,” Ms Ng added. Demonstration of fighting fire in the cabin. Launched in 2022, the Strive and Rise Programme aims to help mentees broaden their horizons, reinforce their self-confidence, develop a positive outlook on life, set goals for their future and strive for upward mobility. The Programme is run by the inter-departmental task force led by the Chief Secretary for Administration. Demonstration of aircraft door operation A value carrier based in Hong Kong, GBA commenced scheduled service in July 2022 and is currently operating flights between Hong Kong and Bangkok, Taipei, Tokyo, Osaka, Yonago, Tokushima, Sendai, Manila, Zhoushan, Huangshan, Yichang, Guilin and Zhangjiajie with a fleet of eight Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
ME aviation market is the world’s second-fastest growing region: OAG
Representative Image The latest analysis from travel data provider OAG’s new report, “Middle East Skies: A New Era of Competition, Capacity and Growth”, reveals that the Middle East aviation market has expanded by 5% since 2019, making it the second-fastest growing region globally, behind only South Asia (12%). This growth is driven by a robust combination of Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) growth and Legacy Carrier capacity. Filip Filipov, COO of OAG commented: “The Middle East region's strategic position as a global hub, coupled with the dynamic expansion of both low-cost and network carriers, is driving unprecedented opportunities. This vibrant market is setting the stage for future advancements in aviation technology and passenger experience and at OAG, we are thrilled to support this evolution.” Both Emirates and Qatar Airways rank among the 2024 Top 20 Global Airlines by Capacity and the Top 10 by Available Seat Kilometers. Emirates Group, Saudia Group and Qatar Airways are the top three carriers by group position. Between them these three operated 127 million departing seats in 2024. LCCs Reshape the Market But the standout story from this report belongs to flynas, which posted a 63% capacity increase for 2024 versus 2019 — making it the fastest-growing airline in the region. flydubai followed closely with 56% growth, as both carriers operated nearly 14.4 million departing seats each, with flynas edging ahead by 25,000 seats. Low-cost carriers (LCCs) now make up 29% of all Middle East capacity, more than doubling from 13% in 2014. Over the past decade, LCC capacity has grown at an 11.5% annual average, far outpacing traditional carriers. Key Trends Egypt dominates LCC routes in growing African market: 96% of flyadeal’s African capacity is to Egypt 81% of flynas’s African capacity is to Egypt 73% of Air Arabia’s Middle East–Africa capacity goes to Egypt Full-service and legacy carriers in the region rely heavily on connecting traffic: 84% of Qatar Airways passengers 77% for Etihad 66% for Emirates Competitive Hotspots The Cairo–Riyadh (CAI–RUH) route remains one of the region’s most competitive corridors with eight carriers in operation. Dubai-Riyadh (DXB-RUH) and Cairo-Jeddah (CAI-JED) are also on the top end of the scale for competition, while Dubai to Heathrow (DXB-LHR) is a more concentrated market with four airlines competing.
Philippine Airlines to reopen PAL Aviation School
Philippine Airlines (PAL) plans to reopen the PAL Aviation School as a prominent training center for new pilots. The institution will be managed under a strategic partnership with the globally recognized flight training organization Airways Aviation Group. By doing so, PAL aims to deliver best-in-class pilot training as part of its long-term commitment to operational excellence, safety and workforce development. Furthermore, this partnership underscores Philippine Airlines’ drive to ensure that its cadets receive consistent, world-class instruction that meets the highest global aviation standards. Backed by a strong track record Following an extensive evaluation process, Airways Aviation’s Australia-based training academy was selected for its strong track record in delivering high-quality, internationally aligned pilot training programs. PAL president and chief operating officer Stanley K Ng said: “Airways Aviation met our stringent requirements and demonstrated their robust emphasis on safety culture and competency-based training methodologies. We value the importance of in-house training in shaping pilots with a global outlook, armed with the exceptional skills and innovative spirit required to meet the challenges of the future.” PAL OIC and executive vice-president Carlos Luis Fernandez added: “Our revitalized Aviation School will help develop this vital workforce: individuals who are not only outstanding in their craft but also globally minded citizens committed to building a sustainable future for aviation. This meaningful collaboration with Airways Aviation draws from the deep well of expertise and shared commitment to excellence that both our organizations are known for.” This partnership also represents a significant step forward in the strengthening of education and training bonds between the Philippines and Australia, reinforcing both countries’ roles in shaping a safer, more skilled and more resilient global aviation workforce. For his part, Airways Aviation Group founder and chair Romy Hawatt declared: “We are honoured to be selected as the official training provider for the next generation of Philippine Airlines pilots. This partnership is not only a recognition of our global training capabilities, but a testament to the shared values and vision that bind our two organizations. Together, we are investing in the future of aviation.” Hawatt likewise pointed out that this is more than just another training programme; rather, it is a strategic alliance built on trust, ambition and a shared commitment to aviation excellence and sustainability. The first group of cadets will commence Foundation training and undergo assessment and selection processes in the Philippines followed by advanced aviation theory and practical training at Airways Aviation’s Australian campuses, where they will receive comprehensive instruction supported by expert faculty, industry-leading technology, and hands-on practical experience. Philippine Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing home-grown talent by combining local investment with global best practice, ensuring its pilots are equipped to operate at the highest level of safety and professionalism.
5th Civil Aviation South East Asia Summit 2022
The aviation industry in Southeast Asia has recorded significant growth over the past few years. The total seat capacity of Southeast Asia airlines experienced double-digit growth in the four-year period of 2009-2013. It has established itself as one of the world’s fastest growing aviation markets – and has huge potential for more rapid growth. Nearly all of the 10 countries that comprise ASEAN have robust economies and expanding middle classes, resulting in a favorable environment for airlines.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Indonesia 2025
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Hong Kong 2026
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives,
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Asia 2025
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Malaysia 2025
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Thailand 2025
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Middle East 2025
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Hong Kong 2024
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives,
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Malaysia 2024
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Asia 2024
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Middle East 2024
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
2nd World Passenger Experience Forum – February 2024, Dubai UAE
The 2nd World Passenger Experience Forum taking place from February 12-14 February, 2024 in Dubai, U.A.E. will serve as a platform that will enable the industry to capture the immense underlying potential in aviation travel and passenger experience.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Thailand 2024
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
HEDNA Bangkok – September 11-12 2023
The agenda will bring a wide array of current topics in our industry to the main stage. You’ll hear from experts in Distribution, Fintech and Payments, Marketplaces, Leading Executives and of course our Hoteliers will be bringing their perspectives to these topics and so much more.
AVIAREPS APAC Virtual Expo 2022 (AAVE)
The AAVE2022 edition gathers quality buyers from an additional 4 countries on top of the 7 existing countries seen in the 2021 edition. Powering the virtual event this year is our AI-matchmaking technology with a strong focus in matching your business needs with the right target segment and audience, ensuring your return of investment, all at the comfort of everyone’s choice of locations. Join our AVIAREPS APAC Virtual Expo 2022 (AAVE) as one of many exhibitors to raise awareness, connect with new partners and customers and strengthen existing relationships.
Webinar: Insight and analysis for the SE Asia region
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 @ 3PM SGT, Join our Chief Analyst, John Grant, Becca Rowland, Partner, Midas Aviation and our guest panelist Gary Bowerman, Director, Check-in Asia as they discuss: What impact the Delta variant has had in terms of pausing recovery v's other parts of the world? Vaccination rates and the degree to which this unlocks air travel, The current pace of recovery across SE Asia's main countries, Key source markets then and now Is quarantine free travel on the horizon yet, REGISTER TODAY!
Webinar – Latest update on Hua Hin Airport
TD would like to invite you to join John Laroche, CEO of Pheonix Aviation in a general update on what is happening with International carrier plans potentially coming into Hua Hun Airport in 2022.
January 2018 – Operational Excellence in Airports Summit 2018
World’s Leading Operation Excellence in Airports Summit focused on Providing Airports and Aviation Authorities with Proven Strategies and Innovation in