Cathay Pacific has commenced direct passenger flights between Hong Kong and Riyadh, strengthening connections between Asia-Pacific and Saudi Arabia. The inaugural flight departed on October 28, marked by a ceremony at Hong Kong International Airport attended by senior government officials and business leaders. The thrice-weekly service will operate using Airbus A350-900 aircraft featuring business, premium
IATA has called on Thailand to strengthen its aviation foundations as passenger numbers are forecast to grow nearly 4 percent annually until 2043. The country’s air travel demand has already recovered to 88 percent of pre-pandemic levels, with further growth expected from 2025. IATA’s Regional Vice President for North Asia and Asia-Pacific, Dr Xie Xingquan,
American Airlines workers back new pay deal for 35,000 staff
More than 35,000 American Airlines technical operations, fleet service, cargo and central load planning employees have voted to accept a new 27-month contract extension. The agreement covers improved economic conditions and pay rate increases for workers represented by the TWU-IAM Association. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom welcomed the ratification of the new agreement. “With this
IATA moves to accept digital yuan in global aviation payments
The International Air Transport Association has announced plans to integrate digital currencies into its aviation industry financial settlement systems. The digital yuan will become the first digital currency accepted in IATA’s China Billing and Settlement Plan by December 2024. IATA’s Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services, Muhammad Albakri, said the move reflected
Air Astana expands routes with major winter schedule overhaul
Kazakhstan’s national carrier Air Astana has unveiled a significant expansion of its international network for the winter season. The airline has launched new direct flights between Atyrau and Dubai, operating twice weekly. Flights from Almaty to Dubai have increased to eleven times weekly, while Astana to Dubai services will operate nine times per week. New
Emirates relaunches daily Adelaide service after pandemic pause
Emirates has resumed daily flights between Adelaide and Dubai, offering more than 220,000 passenger seats annually on the route. The South Australian Tourism Commission estimates the service will generate $62 million in tourism spending and create 315 full-time jobs. South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas welcomed the airline’s return. “We’re not just welcoming back a world-class
