Airlines

Etihad Airways Unveils Newest Middle Eastern Destination

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Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today announced the addition of Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia, to its expanding list of destinations, bringing its total number of Saudi gateways to four.

The move is part of an effort to expand the airline’s network and improve connectivity across the Middle East. The airline plans to increase its reach by starting flights to one of the most fascinating areas of Saudi Arabia. Starting on June 24, 2024, Etihad will operate four weekly flights directly connecting Prince Naif Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) between Al Qassim and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport.

“A remarkable journey from beginning to end is guaranteed by the outstanding experience that awaits them at Zayed International Airport – Terminal A, new home, which redefines the standards for travel comfort and service excellence.”

Al Qassim, known for its vibrant markets, rich cultural history, and green date palm plantations, provides the ideal fusion of modern attractions with ancient Saudi culture. This new route is intended to satisfy the needs of tourists wanting a genuine exploration of Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and historical heritage as well as business travellers looking for new opportunities.

Beginning on June 15, Etihad is launching flights to Antalya and Jaipur, which were announced in February, as well as expanding the frequency of its services to several important destinations.

There will be three more weekly flights to Thiruvananthapuram and Amman, for a total of 10 and 14, respectively. Three more flights to Cairo for a total of 24, an increase to 17 in Karachi, and 20 weekly flights to Colombo are among the additional services.

The most recent expansion increases Etihad’s weekly flight count by 33 per cent, from 642 in the summer of last year to 855 in 2024. It also broadens the airline’s destination network from 65 to 76, greatly improving global connectivity.

Airlines

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.