The new design aesthetic has been revealed at the Emirates Lounge in Munich and Frankfurt, with signature Emirates Lounges in Manchester, Mauritius, and Istanbul expected to follow in the coming months. Serving as a blueprint for Emirates lounges worldwide, the latest signature concept reflects Emirates’ unwavering dedication to exceptional hospitality, luxury and innovation.

Emirates will invest more than AED50 million into each next-generation lounge, underscoring its commitment to delivering world-class facilities across its global network. With Emirates Lounges in Munich and Frankfurt already being explored and enjoyed by customers, the Emirates Lounge in Manchester is planned for July, followed by Mauritius in August, and Istanbul in October.

The new signature lounge design translates the celebrated aesthetic of the Emirates’ latest cabin interiors into a sophisticated ground experience. Customers can expect contemporary architecture and furniture, integrated technology, locally inspired dining, expert recommendations from an in-house barista and mixologist and wellness-focused amenities tailored to premium travellers. Artfully arranged to cater to customers who work, dine, relax and connect while travelling, the latest lounge concept sets a new benchmark for premium airport lounges.

“Our investment in our next-generation signature lounge concept reflects Emirates’ continued commitment to delivering a seamless, premium experience at every stage of the journey. These new lounges have been designed to combine refreshed luxurious interiors with the elevated hospitality and innovation that Emirates is known for – a space for our customers to relax, enjoy, dine and prepare for their travel in comfort. As we expand this concept and theme across our global network, it will set a new benchmark and standard for airport lounges and further strengthen our premium proposition,” said Emirates Deputy President and Chief Operations Officer Adel Al Redha.

Inspired by the elegant palette of Emirates’ cabin interiors and the flagship lounges of Dubai, customers will benefit from more than 50 design enhancements, including distinct zones for relaxation, work, socialising and dining. The new signature lounges display an unmistakably Emirates aesthetic, with discreetly integrated lighting, herringbone floors throughout, accents of marble and gold, and the signature backlit Emirates Ghaf Tree motif – a nod to UAE culture, highlighting the national tree.

Focused Work & Productivity in Emirates Lounges

For customers who wish to work or stay connected while travelling, the new Emirates Lounges offer more private areas and communal spaces designed to serve as both social hubs and workspaces. Details such as Italian eco-leather seating, wireless charging and universal power access at every seat enhance productivity, while a dedicated artefact wall honours both local artists and Emirati culture. Emirates’ signature Rolex clocks adorn walls and provide global time zones.

Elevated Dining in Emirates Lounges

With ample seating and an inviting atmosphere, dining areas in the new Emirates Lounge design have been reimagined around culinary theatre and live cooking. Menus will offer a wide variety of international cuisine, with highlights including regional specialities and a dedicated ‘Made In’ area spotlighting the best of local cuisine. Live cooking stations will offer à la minute dishes, while hot and cold buffet selections will be refreshed throughout the day and night. A dedicated bread oven fills the air with the tempting aromas of handcrafted pizzas, flatbreads and manakeesh, inspired by the city of Dubai.

Premium beverages continue to be offered with Emirates’ curated selection of wines, beers, champagne and spirits. A new barista bar concept will feature a dedicated mixologist who will offer locally inspired cocktails, mocktails, speciality coffees, and artisan teas.

Restorative relaxation in Emirates Lounges

Guests are welcomed into a calm environment enhanced by Emirates’ signature scent of bergamot, citrus, jasmine and soft wood, while displays of local plants and fresh floral arrangements enhance the ambience. Customers who wish to freshen up will enjoy upgraded shower suites with spa-inspired finishes and sustainable VOYA amenities.

Dedicated male and female prayer rooms offer a serene environment for spiritual reflection with ablution facilities and Qibla direction integrated into the design, ensuring guests can perform their prayers in comfort and privacy.

For relaxation and sleep while on layovers, the Quiet Zone provides an oasis of calm. Featuring plush seating, soft lighting, and sleep amenities such as blankets, eye masks, and earplugs, this area is designed to help guests recharge. Additional facilities include spaces for private meetings and breastfeeding, ensuring every customer’s needs are accommodated. All Emirates Lounges operate as silent environments, ensuring a peaceful experience for travellers.

About Emirates Lounges
Emirates Lounges are complimentary for First Class and Business Class customers, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members, including those travelling in Premium Economy and Economy Class. Paid access is also available.

Emirates has a vast network of 42 dedicated airport lounges, including 8 in Dubai and 34 at major airports worldwide, all designed with the same attention to detail and exceptional service. Emirates operates lounges in key cities across the network – Auckland, Bangkok, Beijing, Birmingham, Brisbane, Cairo, Colombo, Delhi, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Glasgow, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Johannesburg, Kuala Lumpur, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester, Melbourne, Milan, Munich, New York (JFK), Paris (Charles de Gaulle), Perth, Rome, San Francisco, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Vienna and Zurich.

At Dubai International Airport (DXB), eight Emirates Lounges are located in the flagship Terminal 3, with 3 lounges for First Class customers and 5 for Business Class customers.

Visit the Emirates Lounges

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

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THAI Chief Executive Officer, Chai Eamsiri and THAI Chief Commercial Officer, Kittiphong Sansomboonat, welcomed VIPs and guests at a ceremony held at Bangkok’s  Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, blends centuries of rich history with modern urban living reflected in iconic landmarks, such as the Rijksmuseum, home to more than 8,000 works of art and historical artifacts; the Dancing Houses, a row of distinctive 17th-century Dutch canal houses renowned for their charming leaning structures; Dam Square, the location of the Royal Palace Amsterdam; and the Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beyond its cultural attractions, Amsterdam serves as one of Western Europe’s key transportation and commercial gateways. Its strategic location enables convenient rail connections to neighbouring countries such as Belgium and Germany, while its international airport provides extensive access to destinations across Europe. Amsterdam also has one of the Netherlands’ major seaports, playing a vital role in international trade and industrial logistics.

Effective 1 July, THAI operates daily nonstop flights between Bangkok and Amsterdam, using an Airbus A350-900 configured with 327 seats in three classes – business, premium economy and economy.

Flight schedule

Bangkok – Amsterdam (daily)
TG936 departs Bangkok (BKK) at 0535 and arrives in Amsterdam (AMS) at 1240. 

Amsterdam – Bangkok (daily)
TG937 departs Amsterdam (AMS) at 1415 and arrives in Bangkok (BKK) at 0635 plus a day.

THAI operates the BKK-AMS route, competing head-on with KLM (SkyTeam) and EVA Air, both of which have maintained reliable service for decades.

KLM flies daily on the route using a B77-300ER with 381 seats, while EVA Air also serves the route with a B777-300 ER three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. 

EVA quotes a round-trip fare of USD1,075 on Skyscanner.

KLM quotes a round-trip fare of USD1,203 and TG is the most expensive at USD1,278. Flight time is 12 hours and 55 minutes.

Fare data analysis shows the route’s average round-trip fare in economy class is currently USD1,160, but the average is likely to fall to USD671 by November and rise to USD922 in December.

(Source: Skyscanner)

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As Condor’s GSA in India, AVIAREPS India will provide sales, reservations, ticketing, and market development support nationwide. Leveraging its extensive travel trade network and local market expertise, AVIAREPS India will work closely with travel agencies, tour operators, corporate partners, and industry stakeholders to drive demand.

The appointment comes as Condor continues to expand worldwide connectivity through its Frankfurt hub, offering travellers access to more than 70 destinations across Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia. With a modern fleet and a growing network, the airline is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for international travel worldwide.

AVIAREPS, Chief Operating Officer, Aviation, Marcelo Kaiser said: “Our partnership with Condor continues to grow, and we are proud to expand our collaboration into India further, one of the world’s most dynamic and promising aviation markets. This development reflects our shared vision of unlocking new opportunities and building strong, long-term relationships with local trade partners. With India’s rapidly growing demand for international travel, we see tremendous potential to position Condor’s network further. Our teams on the ground are fully committed to driving brand awareness, strengthening market presence, and supporting Condor’s continued growth in this exciting region”.

Condor Manager New Markets Florian Stahl added: “India represents a market of significant long-term potential. AVIAREPS India brings deep market knowledge, strong relationships in the travel trade, and proven expertise in airline representation, making it an ideal partner in the region”.

Founded in 1956, Condor flies approximately 10 million passengers annually to more than 70 destinations worldwide. The airline operates one of Europe’s most modern fleets, including its state-of-the-art Airbus A330neo aircraft, while continuing to invest in customer experience, efficiency, and network expansion.

(Source: Aviareps)

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Having launched its first international flight from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2023, the airline is ready to establish twice-daily flights to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), a busy route served by Garuda and Thai Airways International.  

The airline will operate twice-daily flights using an A320 with 174 seats

TransNusa will schedule twice-daily flights from Jakarta (CGK) airport to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Thailand’s primary international gateway. 

According to TransNusa Group CEO Datuk Bernard Francis, the launch of the Jakarta–Bangkok route represents a strategic move to meet the growing demand for leisure travel to Thailand from Indonesia.

“Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations among Indonesian travellers, while Indonesia continues to attract increasing interest from Thai visitors. By launching the Jakarta–Bangkok route with twice-daily services from the outset, we aim to provide greater flexibility for our customers while further strengthening connectivity between our two countries,” said Datuk Bernard Francis.

The first daily flight will depart Jakarta at 0820 and arrive in Bangkok at 1145. The return service will depart Bangkok at 1230 local time and arrive in Jakarta at 1555.

The second daily flight will depart Jakarta at 1630 and arrive in Bangkok at 1955. The return flight will leave Bangkok at 2040 and arrive in Jakarta at 0005 on the following day.

TransNusa is offering competitive introductory fares starting from IDR 2,999,000 one-way.

The launch of the Jakarta–Bangkok route is expected further to strengthen the growing tourism relationship between Indonesia and Thailand. Thailand remains one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after travel destinations, offering a diverse range of attractions — from the cultural heritage of Bangkok and Ayutthaya to the stunning beaches of Phuket, Krabi, and Pattaya, and the natural beauty of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. 

At the same time, Indonesia’s world-class destinations appeal to Thai travellers with TransNusaa offering connecting flights from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, Bali and Lombok.

Tickets for the Jakarta–Bangkok route are now available to book on the official TransNusa website and on popular booking sites such as Skyscanner.

TransNusa officially launched its first international flight on 14 April 2023, with a route connecting Jakarta (CGK) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL). This marked a major pivot for the airline following its post-pandemic relaunch under new ownership, shifting from a domestic regional carrier to a premium service carrier focused on international expansion.  

Its scheduled international destinations include Singapore, served from both Jakarta and Bali. It also serves Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with flights to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and Subang Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB).

(Source: TransNusa)

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The changes reflect continued growth in demand, with additional capacity added where demand has been strongest.

Abu Dhabi–Dhaka, which launched on 26 June with a sold-out inaugural flight, is now confirmed as a year-round service due to strong demand. The route runs four times a week on the Boeing 777, with 28 seats in business and 374 in economy, serving the large Bangladeshi community across the UAE and carrying substantial belly-hold cargo that supports trade between the two countries.

Etihad’s seasonal Abu Dhabi–Zanzibar service has been extended to 31 March 2027, well beyond its previous end date in September, on the strength of demand for the Indian Ocean island. With its turquoise shallows, spice plantations and the UNESCO-listed lanes of Stone Town, Zanzibar is one of the most sought-after escapes on the network, now within reach for far longer.

The seasonal Abu Dhabi–Palma service to Mallorca, operated by the A321LR, has been extended to 18 October 2026. From the hidden coves and clear waters of its coastline to the old town of Palma and the mountain villages of the Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca is a Mediterranean favourite now available later into the autumn.

Abu Dhabi–Kraków increases to four flights a week from 27 July 2026, up from three, following strong demand for travel to southern Poland. Operated by the A321LR, the seasonal service connects Abu Dhabi with one of Europe’s great cultural cities, from the medieval market square of the Old Town to the riverside setting of Wawel Castle.

Abu Dhabi–Brussels increases to 11 flights a week from 15 December 2026, up from seven, adding four weekly services on the three-cabin Airbus A321LR, with first, business, and economy classes. 

Etihad Airways Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer, Arik De, said: “The response from our guests has exceeded our expectations, with strong demand across very different markets, from Brussels and Dhaka to Kraków, Zanzibar and Palma, and we’re responding by adding capacity where demand is strongest. These additional flights and extended seasonal services are bringing more visitors to Abu Dhabi while strengthening connections across our growing global network.”

(Source: Etihad)

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However, when data for the Middle East was excluded, global demand grew by 0.7%. 

Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), decreased 2.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.5% (+0.1 ppt compared to May 2025), a record high for May.

International demand fell 1.6% compared to May 2025. Excluding the Middle East, demand grew by 3.1%. Capacity was down 2.4% year-on-year, and the load factor was 83.7% (+0.7 ppt compared to May 2025).

Domestic demand contracted 3.1% compared to May 2025. Capacity decreased 2.1% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.0% (-0.8 ppt compared to May 2025).

“Air passenger demand was down 2.2% year-on-year in May on the impact of the war in the Middle East. The decline was centred on carriers in the Middle East with a 28.4% year-on-year fall. That’s a significant improvement on the 46.6% decline recorded for April, a sign of the region’s resilience. Notably, we also saw year-on-year declines in demand in both North America and Asia, largely driven by domestic market conditions in the US and China.

“Overall, May demand still appeared to be largely resilient in the face of high fuel prices and airfares. While the recent sharp drop in oil prices is an encouraging development, the challenges created by the war will likely persist for some time. Oil supply through the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain, and it is likely to take time before the benefit of lower oil prices is reflected in ‘normalised’ jet fuel pricing. In the meantime, airlines that are operating on a 2% margin will have little choice but to continue testing demand resilience with higher fares that attempt to cover elevated fuel costs,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.

Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets 

International RPK fell 1.6%, with capacity falling 2.4%. The pace of decline slowed compared to April, and many regions hit record load factors in May, with only the Middle East posting a load factor decline.

Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 1.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity decreased 1.1% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.3% (+2.0 ppt compared to May 2025). In Vietnam, tighter limits on jet fuel imports led to significant capacity cuts on short-haul routes, resulting in a decline in intra-Asia international traffic during the month.

European carriers saw a 3.8% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.4% (+1.2 ppt compared to May 2025). Of note is the 15% increase in direct traffic to Asia, reflecting a continued shift to direct services between the two regions.

North American carriers increased demand by 1% year-on-year. Capacity increased 0.6% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.0% (+0.4 ppt compared to May 2025).

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 28.8% year-on-year decrease in demand. Capacity fell 24.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 76.1% (-4.8 ppt compared to May 2025). The impacts of the Iran war continue to cause a highly negative year-on-year traffic comparison, but month-to-month, the impact is lessening, and the rate of decline was almost half that of April.

Latin American airlines achieved a 10.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 9.0% year-on-year. The load factor was 85.0% (+1.2% ppt compared to May 2025).

African airlines saw an 8.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 8.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 73.4% (+0.4 ppt compared to May 2025).

(Source: IATA)

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The agreement was signed during a recent ceremony in Copenhagen by Anko van der Werff, SAS CEO and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.

The aircraft will support SAS’ ongoing international network expansion, enabling the airline to expand existing high-capacity routes globally and introduce new ones.

 “On behalf of SAS, I am delighted to announce this order for the Airbus A330-900. Combining outstanding economics with improved environmental performance, the aircraft will play a key role in our long-term fleet strategy. It will allow us to deliver an exceptional customer experience, expand our network, and offer greater flexibility and convenience for our passengers.

We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Airbus well into the future”, said SAS CEO Anko van der Werff.

 “We are immensely proud to see SAS reaffirm its trust in Airbus to drive its fleet modernisation. The A330-900 is the undisputed benchmark for efficiency and versatility in its category. By integrating these 18 A330neo, SAS will benefit from unbeatable seat-mile economics with its existing Airbus fleet,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry.

Powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo is designed to fly up to 8,100 nautical miles / 15,000 kilometres non-stop and reduce fuel burn, CO2 emissions, and operating costs by 25% compared to previous-generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo  Airspace cabin offers passengers and crews the latest modern in-flight products for a comfortable flying experience.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family can already operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a target to reach 100% SAF capability by 2030. 

At the end of May 2026, the A330 family had won over 1,950 orders from 133 customers worldwide.

(Source: Airbus)

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The route strengthens trade and cargo connectivity across the South Asia corridor and responds to sustained demand for both passenger travel and logistics between the UAE and Bangladesh.

EY382 departed Abu Dhabi at 2200 on 26 June, arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka, the following morning. The new service operates four times weekly, using Etihad’s Boeing 777 aircraft configured with 28 lie-flat business seats and 374 economy seats.

Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said: “Our first flight to Dhaka departing fully booked speaks to the strength of the bond between the UAE and Bangladesh, and to the sustained demand we’re seeing across both passenger and cargo segments on this route. The UAE is home to one of the largest Bangladeshi communities in the world, and this service is a direct link for the families who call both countries home, as well as a gateway for the Bangladeshi diaspora across the GCC, North America and the UK travelling via Abu Dhabi.”

Beyond passenger demand, the route’s widebody belly-hold capacity supports cargo movement for Bangladesh’s globally significant garment and textile sector. Bangladesh continues to see strong economic growth underpinned by this industry, and the new capacity gives exporters improved, reliable access to markets across the Middle East, Europe and North America, with Abu Dhabi serving as a key gateway between South Asia and Etihad’s expanding global network.

Guests travelling via Abu Dhabi can take advantage of Etihad’s stopover programme, which allows passengers to break up their journey and explore the UAE capital before continuing. 

Visitors can experience Abu Dhabi’s many cultural landmarks, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the recently opened Zayed National Museum, alongside its award-winning beaches, dining, and waterfront attractions, before connecting onward via Etihad’s growing global network.

With Dhaka now part of the network, Etihad continues to strengthen its presence across South Asia, building on routes that connect the region’s communities and industries to the world through Abu Dhabi.

(Source: Etihad)

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Flights will operate year-round from both hubs, starting with four flights per week. United currently offers service to Bogota and Medellín, Colombia and has served the country for more than 30 years

These new flights will operate year-round from both hubs, starting with four flights per week during the winter season. United will fly a Boeing 737 on this route. 

Lonely Planet named Cartagena as a 2026 Best in Travel destination, noting its well-preserved Spanish architecture, vibrant culinary scene and rich history. Flights are available for sale on United.com and the United app.

“Colombia has been an important part of United’s Latin America network for more than 30 years, and our new service to Cartagena reflects our continued investment in the country and commitment to offering customers new and distinct travel experiences,” said United Airlines Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Global Alliances, Patrick Quayle. “As our third destination in Colombia, complementing our service to Bogotá and Medellín, Cartagena gives our customers access to a different side of the country while making it easier for travellers across North America to experience one of the Caribbean’s most iconic destinations.”

United offers more flights to Latin America than any other airline in both Texas and the Washington, DC, area, with nonstop service to 57 destinations from its Houston hub and 18 from Dulles. The new routes will connect Cartagena to more than 70 destinations across the US, from United’s hubs in Houston and Washington, DC.   

Schedule Details

(Source: United Airlines)

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As the first airline to offer nonstop service between these two cities, the new route represents a key milestone in strengthening connectivity between Taiwan and the US East Coast. A special inaugural ceremony was held at Washington Dulles International Airport to commemorate the milestone and welcome the inaugural flight.

“Washington Dulles International Airport serves as a vital gateway to the nation’s capital area. We are immensely grateful for the strong support from all our partners and guests that made expanding our network into the heart of America possible,” said EVA Air President Clay Sun. “We see immense market potential in the Washington DC, metropolitan area. This new route will seamlessly enhance EVA Air’s network across the eastern US, delivering premium service to both business and leisure travellers alike.”

The Washington DC–Taipei route operates four weekly flights utilising Boeing 787-9 aircraft configured with Royal Laurel Class, Economy Class, and EVA Air’s Premium Economy Class. This newly introduced fourth iteration of the PE class is designed to elevate the in-flight experience and offers one of the industry’s most generous seat pitches, delivering enhanced comfort and functionality for long-haul travellers. 

Flight schedule

 EVA Air continues to expand its presence in the North American market, now serving 10 key gateways, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago, Washington DC, Vancouver, and Toronto, with 98 flights per week.

EVA Air has consistently been recognised as one of the world’s safest airlines, maintaining its SKYTRAX 5-Star Airline rating for 11 consecutive years and earning top safety rankings from AirlineRatings.com for 13 consecutive years. The carrier has also received industry recognition for its premium service, including awards for its in-flight beverage programme. 

(Source: EVA Airways Corporation)

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