Qatar resumed service to Philadelphia on 1 August 2026, its 14th destination in North America. Flights on the route use an Airbus A350-900 aircraft, equipped with Qsuite and Starlink Wi-Fi.

Flight schedule

Doha (DOH) to Philadelphia (PHL) — QR727: Departure 0730; Arrival 1430.

Philadelphia (PHL) to Doha (DOH) — QR728: Departure 2130; Arrival 1700.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

The post Qatar resumes Philadelphia flights appeared first on TTR Weekly.

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is a museum of modern and contemporary art shaped by Abu Dhabi’s artistic landscape and designed to reflect the United Arab Emirates’ stories.

The museum joins a growing community of museums and cultural institutions in Saadiyat Cultural District, including Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, positioning the district as one of the world’s most significant concentrations of cultural institutions. Part of the Guggenheim constellation of museums in New York, Venice, and Bilbao, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi brings a distinct identity shaped by Abu Dhabi’s legacy, in a region that has been at the crossroads of culture and trade for millennia.

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi reflects Abu Dhabi’s role as a catalyst for artistic innovation and creative production, fostering meaningful connections between artists, ideas, and audiences. Placing the visitor at the centre, the museum offers an open, exploratory experience in which each journey unfolds across interconnected narratives of time, place, and theme.

Designed by the late Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate Frank Gehry, the museum is located on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, a meeting point between land and sea. A rooted architectural landmark that will offer a new perspective and invite visitors to be part of the curatorial journey of the museum.

Extending the visitor journey through interconnected spaces, the architecture of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is integral to the artistic experience. The building features 30 galleries that unfold across the interior, connected by a central atrium and ten sculptural cones that punctuate the building’s dynamic skyline. Nine are clad in stainless steel mesh and one in onyx and glass.

Reaching heights of up to 88 metres, the sculptural cones provide natural ventilation and shade, enhancing the building’s energy efficiency while articulating its bold silhouette. Spanning 11,600 sqm of interior gallery space and 23,000 sqm of outdoor exhibition areas, the landmark encompasses a total built-up area of 80,000 sqm, reinforcing its role as one of the most significant museum developments, suited to the impressive size, variety of media, and experimental character of art since 1960.

Since 2009, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi has been building a growing collection of modern and contemporary art that will reflect and advance Abu Dhabi’s role as a catalyst for creative production and innovation in the arts. Guests will be invited to engage with art on their own terms, shaping individual pathways through galleries that consider major vectors of art since 1960, such as Abstractions, Popular Culture, Land, Language, and Storytelling.

A landmark for Abu Dhabi and the world, the museum will deepen understanding, expand perspectives, and offer new ways to engage with the art of our time, positioning Abu Dhabi at the forefront of global artistic production, discourse, and exchange. More information about the collection and commissions will be announced in the coming months.

(Source: Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi)

The post Guggenheim Abu Dhabi opens this December appeared first on TTR Weekly.

Operating three times weekly (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays), the new direct service marks a strategic expansion for Riyadh Air, strengthening connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic markets.

Flights are operated by Boeing 787-9 aircraft with 289 seats. Flight time is eight hours and 15 minutes. Riyadh Air will compete with Saudia, which serves Kuala Lumpur with four weekly services using Boeing 777s with 339 seats.

Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas stated: “The inaugural flight to Kuala Lumpur is a defining moment for Riyadh Air as we establish our footprint in Southeast Asia. This route is far more than a direct connection between two capital cities; it builds a vital bridge between Saudi Arabia and the broader ASEAN region. By facilitating seamless travel for business, tourism, and education, we are actively supporting Vision 2030 while delivering an elevated, digitally led travel experience for our guests.”

Malaysia Airports Managing Director Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani said: “Riyadh Air’s decision to make Kuala Lumpur its first destination in Southeast Asia is significant for KLIA and for Malaysia. As the ninth Middle Eastern airline to serve KLIA, its entry further strengthens our connectivity with a region that is an increasingly important market for tourism, trade, and investment. For Malaysia Airports, this is about continuing to build a network that gives guests greater choice while strengthening KLIA’s role as a gateway between Southeast Asia and the rest of the world.

We look forward to supporting Riyadh Air as it establishes its presence here and grows its connectivity through Kuala Lumpur.”

Riyadh Air worked closely with Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Programme (ACP), the executive enabler of the National Tourism and Aviation Strategies, in launching the new Riyadh–Kuala Lumpur service. 

The route strengthens ties between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, supporting growing demand across tourism, business, education, trade, and religious travel, while advancing the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions to position Riyadh as a leading global aviation hub. 

It also supports the continued growth of religious travel, offering Malaysian Umrah and Hajj pilgrims enhanced access to Saudi Arabia while providing Saudi travellers with a seamless gateway to explore Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asian region.

Tickets can be purchased through the Riyadh Air App, the website or preferred travel providers and platforms.

(Source: Riyadh Air)

The post Riyadh Air starts Kuala Lumpur service appeared first on TTR Weekly.

The agreement, signed in Accra last week, sets out a framework for the two airlines to connect their networks. Once implemented, it will allow Etihad guests to travel on a single ticket beyond Accra onto Africa World Airlines’ network across Ghana and West Africa, and bring Africa World Airlines’ customers to Abu Dhabi and onwards across Etihad’s network of 118 destinations.

The two carriers intend to cooperate on cargo, connecting Ghanaian and West African exporters with Etihad Cargo’s global capacity, and on loyalty, giving members of both airlines’ programmes more ways to earn and redeem. 

The partnership takes shape as Ghana and the UAE draw closer, with growing trade, investment, and government engagement between the two countries, and travel between Accra and the UAE rising accordingly. A direct commercial link between the two capitals of these aviation markets is the natural next step.

The Memorandum of Understanding took effect from 24 July 2026, with the individual areas of cooperation to be implemented in stages. The partnership lays the groundwork for Etihad’s own Abu Dhabi–Accra service, set to launch on 24 March 2027. Combined journeys will go on sale as soon as the interline cooperation takes effect.

Etihad Airways Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer, Arik De, said: “Ghana is one of West Africa’s most dynamic aviation markets, and Africa World Airlines is the natural partner there. This framework spans passenger services, cargo, and loyalty, and will connect Ghanaian travellers and businesses to Abu Dhabi and our network across the world’s fastest-growing markets. We are here to grow with Ghana.”

Africa World Airlines Chief Operating Officer Sohail Mahmood said: “Africa World Airlines has proudly connected Ghana and West Africa for more than a decade, with a network that includes Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, Lagos, Abuja and Ouagadougou. This partnership with Etihad Airways across passenger, cargo and loyalty will give our customers a direct line to Abu Dhabi’s expansive network.” 

(Source: Etihad)

The post Etihad and Africa World Airlines ink partnership appeared first on TTR Weekly.

The agreement further strengthens the partnership between Airbus and flynas and supports the airline’s continued expansion across domestic, regional and long-haul markets.

The latest order increases flynas’ total commitment for the A330neo to 20 aircraft and brings its total commitment for the A321neo to 56 aircraft. With these additions, flynas continues to expand its all-Airbus fleet, bringing its total firm commitment to Airbus aircraft to 235.

Flynas currently operates a fleet of 67 Airbus aircraft, comprising two A330-300s, four A320ceos and 61 A320neos. The airline continues to expand its network in response to growing demand for air travel in Saudi Arabia and beyond, supporting the Kingdom’s aviation growth ambitions.

 Flynas Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Bander Almohanna noted that increasing flynas’ confirmed Airbus orders to 235 aircraft out of a total orderbook of 280 aircraft will further strengthen the airline’s operational and expansion capabilities as Saudi Arabia looks forward to hosting Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.

(Source: Flynas)

The post Flynas firms up Airbus orders appeared first on TTR Weekly.

The agreement, which includes two A320neo and two A321neo aircraft, was included in Airbus’ end-of-June order book as an undisclosed order.

Registered in June 2025, the airline aims to expand a wide route network and build a brand that represents Tajikistan on the global aviation stage. 

The A320neo aircraft will feature 176 seats and the A321neo will feature 196 seats in a dual-class layout. These new aircraft will help the airline launch services to regional and global markets.

 “The signing of our first contract with Airbus marks a milestone not only for Shohin Airlines, but also for the entire civil aviation sector of Tajikistan. The A320neo Family aircraft will form the backbone of our airline’s modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable fleet. We are committed to providing our passengers with the highest standards of safety, comfort, and service quality while expanding Tajikistan’s international air connectivity. We are confident that our partnership with Airbus will provide a solid foundation for Shohin Airlines’ long-term growth and the successful implementation of our strategy to build a world-class airline,” said Shohin Airlines Chief Executive Officer Zafar Ahmadzoda.

“Welcoming a new customer to the Airbus family is always a proud moment, and we are honoured Shohin Airlines has chosen Airbus to power their historic launch,” said Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business Benoît de Saint-Exupéry. “We look forward to supporting Shohin Airlines’ vision to connect Tajikistan to the world. This agreement marks the beginning of a strong partnership, ensuring the airline sets a new regional standard for fleet optimisation, operational excellence, and passenger experience right from its start.”

(Source: Airbus)

The post Shohin Airlines books A320s appeared first on TTR Weekly.

Total revenue reached USD858 million, representing an 11% increase in Q2 2026 compared to the same period last year. Total revenue in H1 from the alliance’s portfolio increased by 17% year-on-year to USD1.8 billion, reflecting sustained demand across all regions. This performance was underpinned by a 21% increase in room nights in Q2 and a 27% year-on-year increase in H1, highlighting increased guest loyalty and longer stays.

The power of the GHA Discovery loyalty programme was evident in Q2, with cross-brand revenue — generated by members booking stays at a GHA brand other than the one where they enrolled — surging 32% year-on-year to USD132 million. This cross-brand activity represents highly incremental revenue for hotel owners, proving the value of the alliance’s shared loyalty ecosystem.

This engagement was mirrored by a 41% year-on-year increase in total D$ redemptions in Q2, as members actively used their digital rewards currency to offset stay costs and experiential purchases.

Global revenue mix

International travel remained the primary engine of growth for GHA in Q2 2026, accounting for USD476 million in total room revenue, a 12% increase year-on-year, representing 68% of total room revenue. International room nights and stays both posted strong gains, rising 21% and 22%, respectively, as long-haul journeys were particularly popular. Domestic travel also showed robust momentum, with room revenue rising 16% to US$220 million.

Members’ favourite destinations

Destinations generating the most revenue from members’ international stays in the Q2 2026 rankings were as follows: Italy took the top spot (+21% compared to Q2 2025), followed by Spain (35%), Thailand (+22%), the Netherlands (+9%), and the United Kingdom (79%).

US and the UK are top feeder markets

The US remained the largest international feeder market for GHA in Q2, generating USD86 million and accounting for 18% of international room revenue. The UK was the second-largest source market, followed by China, Germany and Australia.

Distinct travel flows

US outbound travel was diverse, with particularly strong demand for the UK, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. UK travellers favoured European sun and culture, especially Spain and Portugal, alongside Italy, while Thailand dominated for their long-haul travel. German travellers preferred the Netherlands, Spain, Thailand, and Italy, while Australian members preferred Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Fiji. Chinese travellers enjoyed trips to Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia among their main international destinations.

Growing membership and portfolio

Looking ahead to the second half of the year, GHA is well-positioned to maintain its growth trajectory. The 36% year-on-year increase in new member enrolments during Q2 2026 ensures a rapidly expanding audience of highly engaged travellers who will continue to fuel the alliance’s performance.

GHA continued to strengthen its global footprint during the second quarter, adding 31 new properties and surpassing the 1,000-hotel milestone in the first half of 2026. This growth was supplemented by the addition of four new member brands: Almanack Hotels, Regal Hotels, STORY Hotels, and TemptingPlaces Collection.

(Source: GHA).

The post GHA reports double-digit revenue growth appeared first on TTR Weekly.

Scheduled to commence on 20 July 2026, Aleppo becomes flydubai’s second destination in Syria, joining the capital city, Damascus. This reinforces the airline’s commitment to opening up previously underserved markets.

Flydubai Chief Executive Officer Ghaith Al Ghaith said: “We resume operations to Aleppo after nearly 14 years. The introduction of our daily service to Aleppo marks an important milestone in our network expansion strategy. Our primary mandate has always been to support Dubai’s aviation hub by creating direct air links to previously underserved markets. By providing reliable, daily operations to Aleppo, we are not only catering to a strong existing demand for direct travel, but we are also fostering closer economic, cultural and familial ties between the UAE and Syria.”

Historically renowned as a commercial crossroads and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Aleppo is a significant market with high demand for regional business travel, visiting friends and relatives (VFR), and cargo transport. The resumption of direct flights provides a vital link for the Syrian diaspora residing in the UAE and wider Gulf region, significantly reducing travel times compared to indirect routing options.

Flydubai Chief Commercial Officer Hamad Obaidalla added: “Since resuming our flights to Damascus last summer, we have been encouraged by the strong demand for travel on this route. The resumption of our non-stop service to Aleppo builds on this momentum, providing our customers with greater choice and more convenient travel options between Dubai and Syria. The launch of our new daily service also comes at an ideal time to support increased travel demand during the peak summer period, and we look forward to welcoming passengers on board soon.”

Flights on a 170-seat 737-8 feature lie-flat seats in business class and ergonomically designed seats in economy class.

On 1 June 2025, flydubai became the first carrier from the United Arab Emirates to operate a daily service between Dubai and Damascus. Due to growing demand for travel on this route, the carrier has increased the frequency of its flights, now serving the Syrian capital with three daily flights.

The carrier recently added Benghazi, Libya, and Bangkok, Thailand, to its growing network and is set to welcome Pokhara, Nepal, from 23 September 2026.

Flight details

The new direct service is included in the flydubai and Emirates codeshare partnership, enabling passengers to benefit from smoother itineraries, a single ticket, baggage check-in, and access to an extensive combined network.

Flights will operate daily to Aleppo International Airport (ALP) from Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Return Business Class fares from DXB to ALP start from AED8,000 and Economy Class Lite fares start from AED1,800. Return Business Class fares from ALP to DXB start from USD2,000 and Economy Class Lite fares start from USD470.

(Source: Flydubai)

The post Flydubai resumes flights to Aleppo appeared first on TTR Weekly.

The A380 will operate on flights EK512/513 in a four-class configuration, complementing the deployment of Emirates’ retrofitted B777 aircraft, also in a four-class layout featuring Premium Economy, across its three other daily flights.

From October, Premium Economy will be offered on flights to six Indian cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Kochi, giving customers travelling to and from India greater choice when planning their travel.

Delhi-Dubai

Passengers on the Delhi–Dubai route will now enjoy expanded options, with four cabin classes on all daily services. Premium Economy will feature on EK513, operated by the A380, as well as on the Boeing 777-operated EK511, EK515 and EK517.

Kolkata-Dubai

From 25 October, Emirates’ daily Kolkata–Dubai service, EK570/571, currently operated with a Boeing 777, will be served by the airline’s next-generation A350. With flights EK572/573 operating five times weekly on a four-class retrofitted B777, Premium Economy will be available across all 12 weekly flights between Kolkata and Dubai.

Emirates serves nine gateways across India — Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram — operating 167 weekly flights to Dubai and onward to its global network, spanning almost 140 destinations. 

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

The post Emirates debuts A380 on Delhi route appeared first on TTR Weekly.

The collaboration will improve connections for guests, allowing them to book destinations currently flown by both airlines on a single ticket. 

The agreement was signed in Harare on 7 July 2026, with sales opening on 24 August 2026.

Under the partnership, guests travelling on Etihad can connect onward on Fastjet Zimbabwe to Bulawayo, Victoria Falls and Johannesburg, combining travel on both airlines.

The partnership builds on Etihad’s upcoming direct service between Abu Dhabi and Harare, launching on 24 March 2027, extending the airline’s reach beyond the Zimbabwean capital to Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, and giving guests across Etihad’s network a simple way to reach them.

For Fastjet Zimbabwe, the partnership also opens the door to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s wider global network. Those staying in the UAE capital will find a city that rewards slowing down, from the Corniche and the Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat to the quiet of the desert beyond the city, with up to two complimentary hotel nights through the Abu Dhabi Stopover programme.

Fastjet Zimbabwe will become Etihad’s 32nd airline partner, with guests in the future enjoying frequent flyer benefits across both airlines.

Etihad Airways Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer, Arik De, said: “Africa is an important part of Etihad’s growth, and partnerships like this one with Fastjet Zimbabwe are how we extend our reach and open up more of the continent for our guests. From Harare to Victoria Falls, travellers can now plan their journey across Zimbabwe on a single ticket, and we look forward to building on this cooperation.”

Fastjet Chief Commercial Officer, Vivian Ruwuya, added: “This partnership opens up the world for our customers in Zimbabwe. From Harare, travellers can now connect onto Etihad’s global network and reach Abu Dhabi and destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe and beyond, all on a single ticket. We are proud to give the people of Zimbabwe easier access to so many more places.”

Travel under the partnership is available from 24 August 2026.

(Source: Etihad)

The post Etihad signs MoU with Fastjet Zimbabwe appeared first on TTR Weekly.