Firefly returns to Singapore

Firefly has reinstated its flights from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang, Malaysia, to Seletar Airport in Singapore.

Source: Firefly. Firefly reinstates Malaysia-Singapore route.

Firefly’s maiden flight to Seletar was in April 2019. Flights were suspended in March 2020 due to the pandemic. With the resumption of scheduled flights, the airline will operate twice-daily Kuala Lumpur-Singapore services from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport to Seletar Airport respectively.

“This recommencement has become one of the highlights for Firefly this year especially after the last flight in March 2020. Singapore has become one of the important destinations for us, connecting passengers of leisure and business. Hence, this recommencement will be able to connect passengers from both countries, whilst enhancing the economy via the tourism industry,” said Firefly CEO Philip See.

Tan Lye Teck added, “With Firefly flights back, travellers can once again enjoy convenient connections between Seletar Airport and Kuala Lumpur. We look forward to continuing our support of Firefly’s operations in Singapore, and are working closely with our airport partners on the resumption of flights to provide a smooth and seamless experience for passengers.”

All Firefly passengers travelling to and from Seletar will enjoy 20 kg complimentary baggage allowance, fast check-in and boarding and complimentary in-flight refreshments onboard. To ensure a high level of comfort and convenience, passengers now have more flexibility with add ons beyond the available bundled service offerings from Plus, Extra or Flex fares. These offers include a 25 kg baggage allowance, unlimited flight changes, priority boarding, seat selection, travel insurance and Enrich loyalty programme miles.

Passengers travelling must be fully vaccinated and comply with all standard operating procedures (SOP) set by both countries before booking. International flights are subject to local government and regulatory approval.

Routes	Flight No.	Time	Frequency
Subang to Seletar	FY3124	7.30 am - 8.50 am	Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
FY3128	12.55 pm - 2.15 pm	Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Seletar to Subang	FY3125	9.20 am - 10.40 am	Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
FY3129	2.45 pm - 6.05 pm	Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Subang to Seletar	FY3126	9.30 am - 10.50 am	Saturday - Sunday
FY3130	2.55 pm - 4.15 pm	Saturday - Sunday
Seletar to Subang	FY3127	11.20 am - 12.40hrs	Saturday - Sunday
FY3131	2.45 pm - 4.05 pm	Saturday - Sunday

For more information on products and services, download Firefly’s mobile app or visit www.fireflyz.com.my.

TripAdvisor recognizes world's best airlines in 2018

TripAdvisor, the travel planning and booking site, has announced the winners of its Travelers' Choice awards* for airlines.

For 2018, Singapore Airlines was named the No. 1 airline in the world. Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of airline reviews and ratings submitted by travellers worldwide over a 12-month period on TripAdvisor Flights.

Following the success of last year's inaugural Travelers' Choice awards for airlines, the 2018 award categories were expanded and now honour 69 airlines that provide exceptional value and service across the world. In addition to the world list, the Traveler's Choice awards recognise the best airlines in seven regions including Asia, South Pacific & Oceana, Africa & Indian Ocean, and the Middle East. The awards also recognize the top airlines in four service classes: International First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy.

Said Bryan Saltzburg, Senior VP and GM for TripAdvisor Flights: "As the airline industry introduces new fare products and a widening array of in-flight offerings, consumers continue to seek out the carriers that deliver value and a quality experience. The Travelers' Choice awards for airlines recognise the carriers that exceed passenger expectations and receive top marks from travellers."

"The award is a validation of the hard work and dedication of our thousands of staff all around the world, who focus their attention every day on ensuring that Singapore Airlines remains competitive on a global level," said Singapore Airlines' CEO, Goh Choon Phong. "Our business model is based around three main pillars – product leadership, service excellence and network connectivity. We are continuing to invest heavily in all three areas to ensure we have industry-leading offerings that meet and exceed our customers' expectations, both on the ground and in the air."

Among the global top 10, Asian carriers dominated with four airlines on the list (Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines, EVA Air and Korean Air); followed by the Middle East with two airlines (Emirates and Qatar Airways).

The top 10 airlines in the world are:

1. Singapore Airlines, Singapore

According to a TripAdvisor reviewer: "I flew from Sydney to Singapore in business class. The food was the best I have had in the last 10 years. Service was great and the staff actually wanted to be there. One of the best, if not the best airline."

2. Air New Zealand, New Zealand (NZ)

According to a TripAdvisor reviewer: "The flight attendants are friendly, courteous, professional, and dedicated to customer service. The dinner was excellent, even in Economy class, and there was complimentary NZ red and white wine. Even the safety videos are entertaining. I wouldn't fly any other airline between the US and New Zealand."

We’re so stoked to be ranked #2 airline in the world, along with five other awards in this year’s @TripAdvisor #TravelersChoice awards. But the real #1 goes to you - the amazing people that fly with us every single day. From us to you - thank you. 😊❤️ 🎉 pic.twitter.com/UK3ubCrfQO

— Air New Zealand✈️ (@FlyAirNZ) April 9, 2018

3. Emirates, UAE

According to a TripAdvisor reviewer: "This airline is the essence of style, class and comfort. Everything I had expected was surpassed. From their presentation, to their service, which is professional, but does not override their personable approach to travellers. The Airbus is huge, but the atmosphere within is comfortable, seats are wider, windows are bigger."

4. Japan Airlines, Japan

According to a TripAdvisor reviewer: "This airline carrier is exquisite and features great on board meal service, drink service, and the entertainment is great. They provide excellent service with exceptional leg room. This airline is truly above most others and comes with outstanding crew members."

5. EVA Air, Taiwan

According to a TripAdvisor reviewer: "One of the things that separates EVA out from other airlines is in the little things. I was blown away by the novelty of the "character" flight we took. Everything from the pillows to the meals - it was Hello Kitty cuteness overload. Kids' meals are excellent. These small personal touches made our entire flight experience so much nicer!"

8. Qatar Airways, Qatar

According to a TripAdvisor reviewer: "I've traveled a lot in my life and Qataris one of my favourite airlines to travel with. The bar in A380 (business class) is the best. The service regardless of class is fab. The treatment of frequent fliers is great... food very tasty for economy ... and very big portions… Entertainment is top notch. They are one of my favourite airlines for eco travel."

10. Korean Air (KA), South Korea

According to a TripAdvisor reviewer: "We travelled from Chicago to Hong Kong with our toddler, and could not have been more pleased with the experience. Basic economy on KA is basically economy plus on other (especially US-based) airlines. The flight staff actually made me like the experience, rather than detract from it. I'll be flying KA whenever possible in the future."

Class of Service global winners recognise airlines around the world that provide a consistently exceptional passenger experience in each cabin:

Best First Class: Singapore Airlines, Singapore

Best Business Class: Qatar Airways, Qatar

Best Premium Economy: Air New Zealand, New Zealand

Best Economy: Singapore Airlines, Singapore

Explore:

Browse the complete list of winners from the 2018 Travelers' Choice awards for airlines

Hashtag: #TravelersChoice

*Winners were based on airline reviews submitted on TripAdvisor Flights or via one of TripAdvisor's review collection partners from February 2017 to February 2018. 

Budget airline flyadeal to expand into Middle East destinations in long term

KSA's new budget airline flyadeal was officially inaugurated at the the Royal Fleet Hangar at King Abdulaziz International Airport on August 23. At centrestage was the first flyadeal aircraft, which had arrived in Jeddah from the Airbus delivery center in Hamburg, Germany. The aircraft has been named Al-Nayyir (النيَر), which means 'bright star’.

Source: flyadeal. The budget airline flyadeal was inaugurated at a ceremony on August 24. The airline’s colours – a distinct palette of purple and lime – was on full display at the delivery event, along with members of the cabin crew, which gave guests a tour of the unique features onboard.

Announced in 2016, flyadeal will commence operations on 23 September 2017, on KSA's national day, serving domestic markets initially before expanding into Middle East markets. The airline is operated as a separate company under Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation and focused on providing a low-fare, high-value product to a growing travel segment in the kingdom.

Al-Nayyir is flyadeal's first aircraft and the first of eight Airbus A320ceo aircraft acquired for its fleet from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Airbus reported. With 186 seats in a single-class configuration, flyadeal’s A320 features the latest Recaro 18” wide economy class seats, equipped with USB power outlets and personal device holders.

Chairman of flyadeal HE Saleh Al Jasser said: “Saudi Arabia has launched its Vision 2030; a strategic platform for the future development of the kingdom where transportation and tourism are key pillars. The launch of flyadeal is core to the strategy to mobilise further the country and the region.”

Al Jasser added, “The unique identity and service model of flyadeal will provide travellers with an experience that is complementary with the modern and budget conscious traveller.”

CEO of flyadeal Con Korfiatis said: “Flyadeal will be Saudi Arabia’s newest airline, providing a unique experience with an optimal fleet to serve our domestic and regional markets. The Airbus A320 has been distinctly selected for the needs of our operation, and we look forward to passengers experiencing flyadeal’s onboard service.

“Saudi Arabia and the region have a very young and digitally savvy population that has an increasing thirst for low fare travel domestically and across the region. Flyadeal plans to serve and grow this significant segment of air travel.”

DAE CEO Firoz Tarapore said, “We are delighted to be able to support flyadeal’s fleet strategy as it begins operations, and we look forward to working with the airline to fulfill its fleet ambitions, going forward.

“Having listened to our customers, we feel that the acquisition of these popular and efficient single aisle aircraft reflect continuing market demand for this type of plane.”

John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer Customers, Airbus Commercial Aircraft added, “Airbus is committed to play a major role in supporting flyadeal in its exciting journey, enabling more people to fly at affordable cost.

“Flyadeal’s decision to launch its operations with an A320ceo fleet is a clear affirmation of the continuing appeal of a product that provides an exceptionally comfortable cabin, low operating costs and excellent fuel consumption. These factors will provide a framework from which the airline can build and sustain its future successes and market growth, in both KSA and the region.”

The A320 family is the aircraft family of choice within the low cost carrier market, said Airbus. To date, the family has won over 13,200 orders and more than 7,700 aircraft have been delivered to some 400 customers and operators worldwide. The full fleet for flyadeal will arrive by mid-2018, and expansion is expected for the future.

Qatar Airways adds Airbus A380s to Doha-Guangzhou route

Qatar Airways has will up-gauge its Doha-Guangzhou service with the introduction of its flagship Airbus A380 on the route. Guangzhou will be Qatar Airways fourth A380 destination, after London, Paris and Bangkok.

Daily flights on board the world’s largest commercial aircraft will begin 1 July 2016 from Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. Passengers travelling to and from Guangzhou on Qatar Airways QR874 and QR875 will enjoy a unique and enhanced travel experience on the airline’s A380 super-jumbo aircraft. It is anticipated that travellers will be able to fly the A380 to Guangzhou for the Canton Fair - one of China's largest import and export trade events - in October. Qatar Airways is the official airline partner for the event.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, HE Akbar Al Baker, said: “This year marks our eighth anniversary of operations in Guangzhou and we are delighted to celebrate this milestone by introducing our bespoke A380 aircraft, re-affirming our long-standing commitment to China. The Pearl River Delta region is one of China’s most vibrant trade and travel hubs and we have witnessed steady passenger growth both to and from Guangzhou over the years. Passengers from Asia can now enjoy their entire journey on our luxurious A380 aircraft when they fly to popular cities such as London and Paris via our state-of-the-art Hamad International Airport in Doha.”

The A380 provides outstanding levels of comfort and reliability using state-of-the-art technology and sets new benchmarks for all the key qualities related to a passenger’s wellbeing while on board. Wider seats, lower noise levels, draught-free air circulation, and accurate temperature control are among the many advancements on the A380 that keep passengers feeling fresh and comfortable during a long flight.

The 517-seat aircraft is spread across twin decks in a triclass configuration of eight seats in First Class, 48 seats in Business Class and 461 in Economy Class. Seats in each cabin class are proprietary to Qatar Airways and have been crafted in close collaboration with the designers and manufacturers.

Source: Qatar Airways. In first class.

The First Class cabin features eight exclusive suites on the upper deck in a 1-2-1 configuration. Each seat features a 90" pitch with a fully lie-flat bed, 26" HD in-flight entertainment screen and direct aisle access. The First Class cabin also offers features such as spa-inspired bathrooms with luxurious amenities.

Qatar Airways’ Business Class cabin on the A380 features 48 seats on the upper deck in a 1-2-1 configuration, with an 80" full flat bed, 17" HD in-flight entertainment screen and direct aisle access. The upper deck also features an in-flight lounge offering First and Business Class passengers an escape from the typical airplane environment, a Qatar Airways experience that is unique to the A380. In addition, First and Business Class passengers can look forward to an on-demand à la carte service menu and Giorgio Armani amenity kits.

Source: Qatar Airways. The in-flight lounge.

The two Economy Class cabins on the Qatar Airways A380 can be found on the upper deck in a 2-4-2 configuration and on the main deck in a 3-4-3 configuration. Each Economy Class seat is 18.5" wide with a 32" seat pitch. Coupled with the higher ceilings on the main deck and a configuration that uses fewer seats, the inflight environment contributes to a feeling of real spaciousness when onboard.

Interested?

Doha (DOH) and Guangzhou (CAN) daily flight schedule (all times local)

Departs DOH QR874 at 2:30am, arrives CAN at 3.30pm
Departs CAN QR875 at 12.55am, arrives DOH at 4am

Watch the video on Qatar Airways' A380

PIA cuts fares for international and domestic flights post-strike

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has reduced fares on domestic and major international flights. Fares on the Karachi-Islamabad-Karachi and Karachi-Lahore-Karachi routes will start from Rs7,500.

PIA had been dealing with what it said was an illegal strike, and praised the teamwork of PIA employees in managing passengers in the face of resulting flight reductions. The airline made arrangements with Air Blue on 4 February to accept PIA's confirmed ticket passengers for flights to Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Dubai, Muscat, Jeddah and Riyadh. Arrangements had also been made with Shaheen Air to accept PIA's confirmed ticket passengers for domestic flights.

On 12 February PIA reported that its flight schedule has fully returned to normal within two days of ending the strike, expressing gratitude to customers for their confidence in the national carrier. PIA has also pledged to give full refunds for any international and domestic tickets that were not utilised during strike days.

Interested?

According to a Suroor Asia blog post, PIA also announced fare discounts in January 2016 

Emirates plans additional daily service between Dubai and Colombo, Sri Lanka

Source: Emirates.

Emirates has introduced an additional daily service between Dubai and Colombo, Sri Lanka. Effective 1 August 2016, the airline will operate five daily flights between Dubai and Colombo every day except Wednesdays, when it will operate four flights. The new flight will add another 2,520 seats and up to 161 tonnes in cargo capacity per week in each direction, and brings the weekly services on the route to 34.

“The increased frequency provides our customers with greater flexibility in their travel plans, allowing them to explore this exciting destination and connect seamlessly to other flights on Emirates’ extensive global network,” said Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations- West Asia and Indian Ocean.

From 1st August, Flight EK648, operated by a modern Boeing 777-300 ER, will depart Dubai at 1355 hours daily and arrive in Colombo at 1955 hours, all times local. The return flight EK649 leaves Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) at 2210 hours and arrives in Dubai at 0100 hours the following day.

As with all Emirates flights, passengers on the new flight will benefit from a baggage allowance of 30kg in Economy Class, 40kg in Business Class and 50kg in First Class. Passengers travelling in premium cabins will also enjoy lounge access in Colombo as well as Emirates’ Chauffeur-drive service in Dubai.

Travel with Emirates also earns passengers Skywards Miles on the airline’s award-winning frequent flyer programme. Accrued Skywards Miles can be redeemed for free tickets, travel upgrades or other benefits.

The airline currently operates four flights a day between Dubai and Colombo all days of the week except Wednesdays, when it operates three flights. One of these daily services to Dubai is via Malé, the capital of the Maldives. Emirates also operates a daily service between Colombo and Singapore, offering convenient connections to Australia.

Royal Jordanian restarts Amman to Jakarta flights

Royal Jordanian (RJ) has inaugurated a new direct route from Amman to Jakarta. Jakarta is the fourth new RJ destination in 2015, after Ankara in Turkey on December 8, and to Tabuk in KSA and Najaf in Iraq earlier this year.

RJ had operated flights to Jakarta between 1992 and 2002; they were suspended for commercial reasons. RJ President/CEO Captain Suleiman Obeidat said that reopening the Amman-Jakarta route comes at a time when Indonesia witnesses growing air traffic, which reflects Indonesia's position as the 17th largest economy worldwide. Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world, with an estimated 255 million population, 10 million of which live in Jakarta.

Captain Obeidat said that this route is ideal for tourists travelling from Jordan and the Levant to Indonesia and to transport Indonesian students studying in Jordan. The route will also serve the Indonesian labour force, cargo and business traffic.

Captain Obeidat added that the feasibility studies conducted by Royal Jordanian showed that this route is important for transit passengers who come to Amman in order to connect to the cities served by RJ network and that of oneworld carriers.

RJ will fly to Jakarta, via Kuala Lumpur, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The wide body Airbus 330 aircraft, which will fly on this route, takes off from Queen Alia International Airport, Amman, at 0130 and reaches Jakarta at 1825; it departs Jakarta at 1955 and lands in Amman at 0415 the following day.

Etihad to add more flights a week between Abu Dhabi and Manila

Etihad Airways will add three new weekly services between Abu Dhabi and Manila from 1 May 2016, offering a total of 17 return flights per week and seamless onward connectivity from the Abu Dhabi hub to Bahrain, Kuwait, Dammam, Doha, Jeddah, and Riyadh, which are in the top 10 destinations for travellers to and from the Philippines.

Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, James Hogan, said, “The Abu Dhabi-Manila route is one of our strongest in terms of demand and has been capacity-constrained over the past few years. The new services will increase capacity between the two cities by almost 2,500 seats per week, enabling Etihad Airways to better serve the market in the UAE and the Philippines for point-to-point travel.”

The additional frequency is also expected to boost commerce and trade between the UAE and the Philippines. With a belly hold capacity of 18 tonnes, the B777-300ER offers the airline and its freight customers a significant opportunity to grow the export/import business, particularly in the area of electronics and fresh food.

All 17 weekly flights will be operated by a two-class Boeing 777-300ER with 28 seats in Business and 384 in Economy.

Codeshare partner airline Philippine Airlines places its PR code on the current 14 weekly flights Abu Dhabi-Manila operated by Etihad Airways. From 1 May 2016, the partner airlines will offer a combined total of 22 weekly flights between Manila and Abu Dhabi.

Etihad Airways commenced services to the Philippines in February 2006.

Flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and Manila, effective 1 May 2016 

Flight No.	From	Departs	To	Arrives	Every	Aircraft
EY424	Abu Dhabi (AUH)	02:50	Manila (MNL)	15:55	Daily	B777-300
EY423	Manila (MNL)	19:05	Abu Dhabi (AUH)	00:05	Daily	B777-300
EY428	Abu Dhabi (AUH)	10:10	Manila (MNL)	23:15	Daily	B777-300
EY421	Manila (MNL)	00:45	Abu Dhabi (AUH)	05:45	Daily	B777-300
EY435	Abu Dhabi (AUH)	14:35	Manila (MNL)	03:45	Mo, Sa, Su	B777-300
EY434	Manila (MNL)	06:55	Abu Dhabi (AUH)	12:00	Mo, Tu, Su	B777-300

 Note: All departures and arrivals are listed in local time.

Rayani Air takes off on maiden flight

Source: Rayani Air Facebook page.

Rayani Air, a new Malaysia based airline, has completed its first flight as of 20 December. The airline received its Air Service Licence, which entitles it to operate commercial air services, and Air Operator's Certificate, the technical qualification to operate air services, on 18 December, and opened sales to the public on the 13th.

Although positioned as a low cost carrier on its website, with promotional pricing to match, Rayani Air operates more like a hybrid. The airline offers student fares, child fares, as well as business class fares, and services similar to traditional carriers. Economy Class guests are entitled for 20kg of baggage allowance, refreshments, date changes, and legroom of 32" between every seat. Additional meals are available for a price. Business Class passengers get 40kg of baggage allowance and meals included.

Rayani Air will begin with domestic sectors and plans to expand to other cities in the region. Flights are currently available between Kota Bahru and Kuala Lumpur (KL), as well as between Langkawi and KL. Routes to Kuching and Kota Kinabalu from KL are planned.

Interested?

The airline's Facebook page is in the habit of announcing special fares late at night

Emirates looks to west and central China in expansion of network

Source: Emirates. Left: The routes will be served by a Boeing 777-200LR aircraft; centre: Erqi Square District, Zhengzhou; right: Jade Emperor Pavilion, Yinchuan.

Emirates will expand its services in mainland China with four weekly flights to Yinchuan (INC) and Zhengzhou (CGO), utilising a Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, from 3 May 2016. These services will offer new international connectivity for two of China’s fastest growing cities, and expand Emirates’ destination offering on the mainland to five, the other cities being Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia, lies to the west of the Yellow River and to the east of Helan Mountain. With a large Muslim population, it serves as a gateway connecting China to Arab countries, and is positioned as a hub for economic and trade cooperation and cultural exchange between China and the Middle East.

Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan Province and a major transportation interchange for central China, is an educational, technological and economic centre. The second largest city in central China, Zhengzhou’s strategic location has enabled the city to become one of the largest economic hubs in China.

“With the opening of these new strategic routes, Emirates looks forward to contributing to the enhancement of China’s trade links with the rest of the world, in particular with the UAE and Arab world. We believe the new international air links that we are launching will help create tourism and trade opportunities for Chinese business and leisure travellers that may not otherwise exist,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group.

“With our established network across Africa, Europe and the Middle East, Emirates is a ready-made connector of people and trade, and we look forward to further developing aviation links with China in a mutually beneficial way.”

Emirates has been a large part of the China growth story, being the first airline to establish non-stop connectivity between the Middle East and mainland China, first with freighter operations to Shanghai starting in 2002, followed by passenger services in 2004. Emirates’ new services will connect Yinchuan and Zhengzhou with new destinations via a connection in Dubai, and help boost trade and tourism flows to the growing central and western parts of China where these cities are located.

Emirates flights to Yinchuan and Zhengzhou will depart on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from Dubai as EK326 at 02:45 arriving at Yinchuan Hedong International Airport at 13:35. The service will then depart from Yinchuan at 15:20 and arrive at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport at 17:00. The return flight, EK327, will depart Zhengzhou at 21:10, arriving at Yinchuan at 22:55. It will then depart Yinchuan at 00:40, arriving in Dubai at 04:30 the next day*. Timings of the new service have been scheduled to allow for seamless connections to many Middle East, European and African destinations.

Passengers travelling on Emirates’ Boeing 777-200LR will be able to enjoy the airline’s entertainment system with up to 2,000 channels of on-demand content, including Mandarin language movies and music. Emirates flights to and from China feature Mandarin-speaking cabin crew on board, and inflight cuisine options with popular Chinese dishes. 

The services will be operated by a three class configured Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, offering 266 seats and 14 tonnes of cargo capacity in the belly hold. As with all Emirates flights, passengers travelling on the Yinchuan and Zhengzhou services will enjoy the Emirates baggage allowance of 30kg in economy class, 40 kg in business class and 50 kg in first class. 

Popular commodities expected to be transported on these services include electronics, such as mobile phones from Zhengzhou, and agricultural products such as goji berries and cashmere from Yinchuan.

“As China's regions continue to open up to the global economy, Emirates remains keen to support this with the further expansion of air services in mainland China. In particular we’re interested in exploring the opportunity of daily services to Hangzhou and Chongqing, and a second daily service to Guangzhou,” added HH Sheikh Ahmed.

Ties between Dubai and China continue to grow stronger. A growing number of Chinese banks and businesses are establishing branches within Dubai’s business and financial districts and the city is now home to over 3,000 Chinese companies and 200,000 Chinese residents. Growth in visitor numbers to Dubai from China grew by 25% in 2014.

*Flight times are as per summer schedule

Nonstop services between Beijing and Auckland from Air China

Air China has begun a nonstop service for Beijing-Auckland in cooperation with Air New Zealand will cooperate in terms of international operations, networks and capacity. The new service is part of Air China's strategy to expand in Oceania in response to increased bilateral trade and interest in New Zealand from Chinese tourists.

Wang Mingyuan, Senior Vice President of Air China indicated that exchanges between China and New Zealand have been growing rapidly in recent years, saying that the new service will would offer more efficient, convenient and affordable flight options for business and leisure travellers between Air China and New Zealand.

Nick Judd, General Manager Greater China, Air New Zealand said, "New Zealand is an increasingly popular destination for Chinese travellers. This new partnership represents a great opportunity for us to share our nation's beauty with even more Chinese visitors and we look forward to welcoming them."

The flights CA783 and CA784 are operated seven days a week. The outbound flight departs from Beijing at 00:40 and arrives in Auckland at 18:10. The inbound flight departs from Auckland at 20:00 and arrives in Beijing at 04:30 the next day. The flights are operated with A330-200 aircraft. Business Class seats open flat, and all classes of service are provided with personal AVOD and power outlets.

MEGA Maldives sees enthusiastic response to Male-Kuala Lumpur flights

Source: MEGA Maldives. The first flight to Kuala Lumpur, LV300, left Male at 0800 on 2 December with 116 passengers.

Since announcing the relaunch of the Male-Kuala Lumpur route in November, MEGA Maldives has seen increased demand from Maldivians travelling directly to Malaysia, the airline said.

MEGA Maldives will fly Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to Kuala Lumpur with tickets from US$299 onwards. 

Oman Air increases frequencies to Indian cities

Source: Oman Air.

Oman Air is set to increase frequencies to five of its key Indian destinations.The new flights will add 5,131 more seats to the destinations, and will be operated using Boeing 737-800 and 737-900 aircraft.  

Oman Air first launched flights to Goa in March 2015. In response to customer demand, the airline increased frequencies from four flights per week to six per week, and is now announcing that it is adding flights for a total of seven a week. Daily flights from Muscat to Bangalore and Kochi will now be twice-daily. The carrier will also operate 11 flights weekly to Lucknow and 10 to Jaipur.

Oman Air flies to 19 destinations in the Indian subcontinent that include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, out of which 11 destinations are in India.

The Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air, Paul Gregorowitsch, commented:
“Since we first launched flights to India in the 1990s, demand for seats aboard Oman Air’s outstanding aircraft has been consistently high. We will now offer daily or double-daily flights to all eleven of our destinations in India.

“Our new flights to Goa, Bangalore, Kochi, Lucknow and Jaipur will offer even greater choice and convenience for both leisure and business travellers. Therefore they will not only support the growth of tourism in Oman and India, but will also help to promote vital trading partnerships between our two countries.

Etihad announces A380 services between Abu Dhabi and Mumbai

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, will operate its Airbus A380 aircraft between Abu Dhabi and Mumbai from 1 May 2016. Other A380 include Sydney and, from June 2016, Melbourne.

The Abu Dhabi-based airline’s 496-seat A380 has 50% more seats than the Boeing B777-300ER it replaces, offering more options for tourism growth into India, US and Abu Dhabi. The aircraft features the only three-room suite in commercial aviation – The Residence by Etihad – as well as nine First Apartments, 70 Business Studios, and 415 Economy Smart Seats.

In 2014, nearly one million guests who travelled on Etihad Airways’ India flights began their journey from outside the country, representing almost 70% of total passengers who flew to and from India with the Abu Dhabi-based airline. The aircraft will operate daily on flight EY204 from Abu Dhabi to Mumbai, and EY203 from Mumbai to Abu Dhabi, both of which carry the 9W code of Jet Airways, Etihad Airways’ strategic partner. 

The flights connect seamlessly with Etihad Airways’ A380-operated services to New York, allowing guests to experience the double-decker aircraft throughout their journey. Guests on board Etihad Airways’ A380 service will also have access to popular connecting destinations over Abu Dhabi, including Bahrain, Doha or Jeddah in the Gulf region.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “The Etihad Airways A380 has set a new benchmark for luxury and innovation and we are delighted to announce that this world-class service will soon be available to guests flying to and from Mumbai.

Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Honourable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, India, welcomed the news, saying: “This announcement by Etihad Airways ‎is yet another sign of international confidence in the powerhouse economy of Maharashtra. I look forward to the growth in tourism and business that this service can bring to our state."

Interested?

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about Etihad's new flights to Melbourne, Australia

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post on Etihad's boutique hotel flight experience

KLM World Business Class flights out of Amsterdam to feature meals by three-star chef Jacob Jan Boerma

Source: KLM. Boerma.

From 25 October 2015, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines begins serving meals by Jacob Jan Boerma, a Dutch three-star chef, in World Business Class on flights out of Amsterdam*. Boerma is the first chef to enrich the KLM kitchen for a whole year.

"KLM is once again proud to work with a chef from a Michelin three-star restaurant. This time it is Jacob Jan Boerma of restaurant De Leest in Vaassen who will be providing delicious meals with entirely their own signature. KLM’s World Business Class passengers have always appreciated the meals designed by our top chefs and I fully expect Jacob Jan’s menus to delight our customers," said Miriam Kartman, KLM Executive Vice President Inflight Services.

"It is a fantastic challenge to work with KLM, one of the greatest airlines in the world! I am very much looking forward to welcoming you to personally experience the menus at high altitude. The meals have been carefully compiled with KLM. I hope I can treat you to a culinary surprise!" said Boerma.

KLM has been serving meals by leading Dutch chefs in World Business Class for many years. By working with top chefs, KLM continues its promotion of the culinary world on board. The tableware is designed by Dutch designer Marcel Wanders, which perfectly matches KLM’s “International Dutch” product vision. Past meals were designed by Cees Helder, Margot Janse, Sergio Herman, Richard Ekkebus, Mario Ridder, Richard van Oostenbrugge and Jonnie Boer.

Source: KLM. Boerma has created four different menus for KLM.

Boerma and Kim Veldman opened restaurant De Leest in 2002. The restaurant received its first Michelin Star in 2003, its second in 2007 and, in 2014, the ultimate achievement, its third Michelin Star. The cuisine is French with cosmopolitan influences. Fresh elements are prominent and the restaurant stands out for its use of local, often organic produce. Jacob Jan will open his own restaurant at Amsterdam’s newly renovated Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky in 2016.

*KLM flights between Asia and the Middle East transit in Amsterdam.

Royal Jordanian and Qatar Airways launch codeshare agreement

Royal Jordanian (RJ) has further enhanced its ties with oneworld partner Qatar Airways by launching a new codeshare agreement that is set to further expand travel opportunities for the customers of both airlines.

Through the new agreement, which began August 6, 2015, RJ passengers travelling between Amman and Doha on both Royal Jordanian and Qatar Airways will benefit from the same airline code and a streamlined level of services from the oneworld partners.

Members of the airlines’ frequent flyer programmes will also be able to collect points on each other’s flights, with this initial route paving the way for additional codeshare expansions in the near future between the airlines across destinations in the US and Asia.

RJ President/CEO Captain Haitham Misto said: “Royal Jordanian and Qatar Airways enjoy a strong relationship, and they are both keen on providing superb on-board and on-ground services. This agreement will further enhance the cooperation between our two companies, thus offering our passengers more travel options and frequencies to cities around the world.”

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said: “Becoming a member of oneworld has enabled Qatar Airways to strengthen its competitive offering, while expanding travel options to passengers around the world within this leading global alliance network. The launch of this new code share agreement with our fellow oneworld member airline Royal Jordanian demonstrates this and will allow passengers to benefit from seamless journeys around the globe.”

Etihad deploys Dreamliners along UAE-Singapore route

Etihad Airways has set a new benchmark for luxury travel on the UAE-Singapore route with the daily Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner services. First Suites, Business Studios and Economy Smart Seats are available on the Abu Dhabi-Singapore route. Flight timings offer seamless two-way connections to 35 cities across Etihad Airways’ global network. 

Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, James Hogan, said deploying the Dreamliner to Singapore reflected the importance of the route to the airline and its commitment to a best-in-class experience. “The Etihad Airways B787-9 Dreamliner is the most customised aircraft of its kind in the sky. The ground-breaking, next-generation First Suites, Business Studios and Economy Smart Seats offer a superior level of luxury and comfort and will transform the inflight experience," he said.

“Never before has the airline had such a compelling proposition nor been as strong a competitor in the Singapore travel market.”

Hogan also highlighted the airline’s Singapore flight timings and better connectivity to the network via the Abu Dhabi hub. Flight EY470 departs Abu Dhabi at 10pm and touches down at Singapore’s Changi Airport at 10.15am. The return flight, EY473, departs Changi Airport for Abu Dhabi at 8.10pm and arrives in the UAE capital at 11.45pm local time.

“With evening departures in both directions, we offer our guests in the UAE and Singapore more convenient travel times and improved connectivity to 35 destinations in the GCC, Middle East, Africa and Europe," he noted.

“This includes seamless connections to our flagship A380 services to London enabling guests to experience the luxurious First Apartment and The Residence, the world’s first private three-room cabin on a commercial airliner.”

Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner carries 235 guests – eight in First Class, 28 in Business Class and 199 in Economy Class – and offers levels of luxury, comfort, entertainment and inflight connectivity unrivalled in commercial aviation.

The décor and lighting on board Etihad Airways B787-9 Dreamliner is inspired by contemporary modern Arabian design, complementing the airline’s Facets of Abu Dhabi design identity introduced in late 2014.

First Class guests experience luxurious private suites with Poltrona Frau leather-upholstered seat and ottoman, a personal wardrobe, chilled mini-bar, a 24" TV monitor and centre seats which can be joined to create a double bed. A professional onboard Chef offers First Class guests a bespoke dining experience, preparing fine cuisine inflight from fresh produce.

Business Class guests enjoy the comfort and space of the airline’s new Business Studios, each offering direct aisle access, a fully flat bed of up to 80.5" in length, and a personal 18" touch screen TV with noise-cancelling headsets. Food and Beverage Managers, handpicked from some of the world’s best restaurants, oversee the service of a ‘dine anytime’ a la carte and snack menu in the Business Class cabin.

In Economy Class, the Economy Smart Seat provides enhanced comfort with a unique, ergonomic ‘fixed wing’ headrest on each seat, a 32" seat pitch and a generous 6" recline. Guests can enjoy more than 750 hours of on demand entertainment on an 11.1" HD screen with an intuitive interface and video touch screen handset.

These guest experience innovations are complemented by the Dreamliner’s DNA – the commercial aviation industry’s largest windows; air that is cleaner, more humid and at a higher pressure for better comfort; large overhead stowage bins; soothing LED lighting; and technology to sense and counter turbulence for a smoother ride.

Etihad Airways commenced three weekly flights to Singapore on September 28, 2007 and went daily on February 1, 2013. It introduced its award-winning First Class to the route on 1 June 2015 with the deployment of a three-class Airbus A330-300 aircraft.

Vietjet's SkyBoss adds premium customer experience

Source: Vietjet.

Vietjet’s has a new class of travel – SkyBoss. With SkyBoss, passengers enjoy premium services including priority check in, a complimentary 20kg check-in baggage allowance, priority seat selection, airport lounge access, inflight meals, extra leg room and the flexibility to change flight dates and timings.

Vietjet Air is the first privately owned airline in Vietnam. Since the airline’s launch in 2011 Vietjet has successfully flown over 12 million passengers on 32 domestic and international routes. It currently flies twice daily from Singapore's Changi International Airport to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City. Flights depart to Ho Chi Minh City from Changi International Airport at 1.05pm and 6.00pm (local time). Flights return from Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City at 8.55am and 1.55pm (local time).

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Tickets can be purchased by booking online at  or via VietJet’s Facebook page

Get in on the week-long Vietjet promotion

Source: Vietjet website.

Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company (Vietjet), which flies 32 routes domestically and globally, is giving away 500,000 tickets in a week-long promotion*, up till Wednesday, 29 July 2015.

The promotion is applicable to all domestic and international routes currently operated by Vietjet, and covers travel from 7 September 2015 to 31 December 2015. Promotional prices will appear in a separate column. Travellers can purchase tickets via the Vietjet website, and payment can be made with major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, JCB and American Express. 

Vietjet currently operates 150 flights per day with a new fleet of 25 Airbus aircraft. In Vietnam, Vietjet has successfully connected key economic regions such as: Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Noi, Hai Phong, Da Nang. International flights include to Singapore, Bangkok, Taipei, Seoul, Siem Reap, Osaka and Hangzhou. The airline features fast and easy check-in services and recently partnered with Lotteria Vietnam to provide more choices for in-flight meals.

*Terms and conditions

• The ticket promotion applies to the basic fare and does not include the cost of prevailing taxes and fuel surcharges
• The total number of promotional tickets available for this promotion is 50,000 and while stocks last
• Purchased tickets are non-refundable and a change in flight dates will incur additional administrative charges
• Name changes on bookings are not allowed
• Flight bookings are not available during public holidays in the stipulated countries of the routes selected 

Gulf Air increases flights for summer

As part of its new summer* schedule, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier Gulf Air will increase its flights to and from Amman, Beirut, and Bangkok among other cities during the upcoming peak summer travel period and until September 2015.

This follows the airline’s recent announcement of its enhanced Istanbul summer schedule, which now offers a choice of up to seven weekly flights during the summer period.

The frequency increase will provide greater choice of flights and enhanced connectivity for passengers travelling across the Gulf Air network with multiple daily flights to Amman, nine weekly flights to Beirut, and daily flights to Bangkok.

Gulf Air’s Acting Chief Commercial Officer, Ahmed Janahi said: "With the summer holidays upon us we are seeing an increase in travel demand to some of the airline’s most popular destinations. Our additional flights across the Gulf Air network are key to strengthening our strategic business and tourism links. These additional frequencies allow greater connectivity for passengers travelling across our extensive network including key destinations in Europe, the MENA region and Asia, via Bahrain International Airport while facilitating movement to and from the Kingdom of Bahrain.”

*See this blog's timeframe for summer