Etihad A380 to fly Bangkok route
Etihad Airways will introduce its Airbus A380 on the Abu Dhabi–Bangkok route from October, marking the aircraft’s first deployment to Thailand and increasing capacity on one of the airline’s most popular leisure routes.
The A380 will operate on Etihad’s evening daily service between Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi and Bangkok, strengthening connectivity between Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
The aircraft features The Residence, the world’s only three-room suite in the sky, alongside private First Apartments, Business Class lie-flat seats, and an enhanced Economy cabin.
Turkish Airlines posts strong 2025 results
Turkish Airlines reported a $2.2 billion profit from main operations in 2025, highlighting the resilience of its business model despite geopolitical tensions, trade wars, and supply chain challenges in the aviation sector.
Total annual revenue reached $24.1 billion, rising 6.3 per cent year-on-year, supported by strong passenger demand. Passenger revenues increased 7.4 per cent, driven by international travel and premium segment growth.
In the fourth quarter, revenue rose 12 per cent to $6.3 billion, with operating profit reaching $534 million, up 23 per cent year-on-year.
King Khalid Airport completes terminal revamp
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has completed a major terminal reorganisation aimed at improving capacity and efficiency, according to Riyadh Airports Company.
The transition, carried out between February 16 and 25, redesignated Terminals 1 and 2 for international flights operated by national carriers, while Terminals 3 and 4 now serve domestic operations. Terminal 5 has been allocated for international flights by foreign airlines.
Riyadh Airports Company CEO Ayman Aboabah said the transition was implemented under a comprehensive operational plan involving more than 650 field support teams, alongside free transport services including the Riyadh Metro and shuttle buses.
Al Jouf International Airport begins operations
Al Jouf International Airport in northern Saudi Arabia has begun operations on February 26, receiving its first flight and marking the transfer of operations from the previous airport.
Affiliated with the Second Airports Cluster, the new airport has an annual capacity of 1.6 million passengers, compared with 175,000 at the former facility.
The first aircraft to land, belonged to national carrier Saudia, which was welcomed with a ceremonial water cannon salute.
Air Arabia launches Sharjah-Rome flights
Air Arabia has launched a daily non-stop service between Sharjah International Airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport, further expanding its European network.
Starting July 1, 2026, the new route will strengthen direct connectivity between the UAE and Italy while offering travellers convenient access to one of Europe’s most iconic cultural and historic destinations.
The service will be operated using the Airbus A320neo, one of the newest aircraft in Air Arabia’s fleet, offering improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and enhanced passenger comfort for travellers.