Airlines

Pilot Faces Backlash for Working with Two Airlines Simultaneously

A significant controversy has erupted at Malta’s new state-funded air carrier, KM Malta Airlines, following the revelation that one of its pilots was secretly working simultaneously for another airline.

The incident involved First Officer Danica Theuma, who was found to be flying Virgin Atlantic planes in the UK while also employed by KM Malta Airlines. The incident came to light last month when Theuma, who was supposed to be observing obligatory rest periods as per her KM Malta Airlines schedule, was seen flying Virgin Atlantic planes out of Heathrow Airport in London.

A colleague who spotted her in the UK reported the incident to her manager. As a result, Virgin Atlantic’s management swiftly terminated Theuma’s employment upon discovering her double duty.

Theuma’s actions not only represented a severe breach of contract but also violated international safety regulations.

These rules strictly govern duty times and rest periods to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew. Despite these serious infractions, KM Malta Airlines has chosen to allow Theuma to continue flying for the airline.

Initially, KM Malta Airlines suspended Theuma after being informed of her conduct. However, the airline decided to reinstate her shortly after, a decision that has caused significant unrest among her colleagues. The airline’s employees are demanding that Theuma be held accountable for her actions and punished for disregarding safety rules.

The situation has sparked a heated debate within KM Malta Airlines, with many pilots expressing their dissatisfaction with the management’s decision to retain Theuma. They argue that her breach of safety protocols and contract should result in stricter disciplinary action to uphold the integrity and safety standards of the airline.

Airlines

Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air unveils cabin crew uniforms

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new world-class airline wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has unveiled its first-ever fashion collection in collaboration with renowned Saudi fashion designer Ashi, founder of the Parisian couture house ASHI Studio.

The debut took place during Haute Couture Week in Paris, showcasing Riyadh Air’s new lifestyle collection for its frontline team members.

The exclusive fashion line includes dozens of looks for both men and women, with 15 designs revealed at the prestigious fashion event. The luxurious Riyadh Air concepts presented in Paris feature timeless cashmere outerwear, dresses, and trousers made from fine wools, custom leather footwear, amethyst earrings, and iconic pillbox hats.

Saudi fashion designer has taken inspiration from the 1950s

The collection draws inspiration from 1950s airline fashion, widely regarded as the ‘golden age’ of aviation, while incorporating bold, modern styling for a future-forward brand.

For the new fashion line, Ashi has cultivated completely new color tones for the looks,
including the chic and elegant Electric Amethyst for womenswear, and Dark Amethyst for
menswear, of which the full collection is scheduled for launch early next year.

The unique amethyst shades pay homage to Saudi Arabia’s stunning lavender fields and are rooted within Riyadh Air’s primary color. The Saudi fashion designer took inspiration from the
Riyadh Air aircraft livery to deliver completely bespoke colors for the new timeless
collection. They were also carefully designed to complement the cabin interiors which will
be revealed later this year.

Ten womenswear looks were showcased on the Paris runway, each of which were
complemented by accessories such as trademark shoes and hats. Five menswear looks
were also unveiled during the first-of-its-kind Haute Couture Week showcase.

Riyadh Air will take its first flight in mid-2025

The fashion collection, to be worn by Riyadh Air cabin crew, pilots, concierges, and airport
agents, can be changed seasonally, keeping the looks fresh all year round.

Riyadh Air is on track to make its maiden flight in 2025, revolutionizing the future of air
travel through a premium aviation experience for both guests and team members. With
an unwavering dedication to cutting-edge thinking and innovation, Riyadh Air aims to set
new standards in the industry.

Airlines

These are the Top10 World’s Best Economy Class Airlines for 2024

In an increasingly competitive aviation industry, the quality of an airline’s economy class can significantly influence passenger satisfaction and loyalty.

Each year, Skytrax, a leading global air transport rating organization, conducts extensive passenger surveys to determine the World’s Best Economy Class Airlines. These rankings are highly anticipated, offering valuable insights into which airlines excel in providing comfort, service, and overall passenger experience in economy class.

For 2024, Skytrax has unveiled its latest rankings, highlighting airlines that have demonstrated excellence in delivering exceptional value and comfort to economy class travelers around the globe.

10 Best Economy Class Airlines 2024

1.Cathay Pacific Airways

2.Qatar Airways

3.Singapore Airlines

4.Japan Airlines

5.EVA Air

6.ANA All Nippon Airways

7.Emirates

8.Hainan Airlines

9.Turkish Airlines

10.Saudi Arabian Airlines

Virgin Atlantic,Garuda Indonesia, Delta Air Lines, Air France, Fiji Airways, Oman Air, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, British Airways, STARLUX Airlines

Cathay Pacific has been honored as the World’s Best Economy Class Airline for 2024 by Skytrax, with Qatar Airways securing second place and Singapore Airlines claiming third. Lavinia Lau, Chief Customer and Commercial Officer at Cathay Pacific, expressed gratitude for the airline’s customers, whose support propelled them from 8th to 5th place overall.

Lau emphasized that achieving a top-five position and securing the prestigious economy class award underscored their commitment to exceeding customer expectations. Looking ahead, Cathay Pacific remains dedicated to further elevating its service standards and aspiring towards industry leadership.