South African Airways (SAA) to increase number of flights to Mauritius

South African Airways (SAA) has increased its number of flights to Mauritius to meet the growing demand from travellers between South Africa and the tropical island destination.

The national flag carrier relaunched its service to Mauritius in November 2021 with a daily morning flight. Now, SAA is adding another morning flight between Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport and Mauritius. 

Effective 1 December 2024, SAA customers will have the option of two daily morning departure times from Johannesburg between the two destinations.

First flight, SA190 departs Johannesburg at 09h40, arriving in Mauritius at 15h40

Second flight, SA192 will depart Johannesburg at 10h45 arriving in Mauritius at 16h45 (local time)

The return flights from Mauritius, are as follows in local time

SA 191 departs Mauritius at 16h30, arriving in Johannesburg at 18h55

SA 193, departing Mauritius at 17h35, arriving in Johannesburg at 20h00

“Our decision to increase the frequency of flights to Mauritius was driven by demand leisure and business travellers,” said SAA’s Interim Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Tebogo Tsimane.

“Mauritius has long been a favoured holiday destination for South Africans, providing a tropical island holiday experience and is just four hours away from Johannesburg. Mauritius is also an important investment destination and financial services hub, with many major South African companies and brands expanding their operations on the island,” he added.

Increasing frequencies of the current destinations is a key component of SAA’s growth strategy.

“As intra-African trade gains traction on the back of the African Continental Free Trade Area – SAA plans to be the premium airline of choice to connect Africans and transport goods. The Africa region presents exciting growth opportunities and is pivotal in our future plans,” concluded Tsimane.

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Since June last year, smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places, including airports, workplaces and public transport in Mauritius.  Smoking is also prohibited in a number of outdoor areas, including outside the airport, government buildings, health facilities, educational institutions, cafes, bars and restaurants.
Smoking is also prohibited while driving or travelling in a passenger vehicle, or while in a stationary vehicle carrying passengers.
There are strict regulations concerning cigarettes, water pipes and e-cigarettes. Customers should ensure they obtain the required information prior to travel to ensure that items are not confiscated at customs.

After three weeks, RAF detachment returns to UK following end of Royal Australian Air Force led exercise

A RAF detachment that has been taking part in Australian-led Exercise Pitch Black will be returning to the UK following the conclusion of the three-week exercise.

The UK detachment consisted of six Typhoon aircraft from RAF Coningsby based XI (F) Squadron and Voyager from the Air Mobility Force based at RAF Brize Norton, plus supporting elements from across the RAF have been in Australia since the 12th July. 

In week one the nations flying on the exercise conducted simulated offensive counter-air operations against another nation. During weeks two and three the aircrew focused on air interdiction scenarios in a complex air environment, which meant that participants were divided into either 'red team' or 'blue team' flying from separate locations attacking one another in varying scenarios. The overarching aim was to practice Offensive Counter Air and Defensive Counter Air combat in an airspace that is larger than the UK.

They said: “The Royal Australian Air Force, as the organiser of Pitch Black, is in charge of setting the scene. Typically, it is a disputed region that has been overrun by the red side, the bad guys, and the blue side has to take it back.

Interoperability means that each air force of each nation is not just looking out for itself, but is trying to share procedures at the operational level so that there is a common understanding of interrelated air operations and thus common benefits and advantages.”

For XI (F) Squadron, participation in Exercise Pitch Black also allowed the Squadron to renew friendships with the RAAF’s 1 Squadron with whom they flew alongside during in Exercise Bersama Lima in 2023. During the exercise, they also flew with nations with whom the UK is building new stronger relationships including Japan, India and Papua New Guinea.

Volaris scores 90% load factor during July 2024

Volaris, the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) serving Mexico, the United States, and Central, and South America, reports its July 2024 preliminary traffic results.

In July 2024, Volaris' ASM capacity decreased by 15.0% year-over-year due to the accelerated Pratt & Whitney engine inspections and the resulting aircraft groundings. Load factor in the month increased by 2.0 pp YoY to 89.8%, as RPMs decreased by 13.0%. Mexican domestic RPMs decreased by 20.0%, while international RPMs increased by 1.0%. Volaris transported 2.7 million passengers during the month.

Enrique Beltranena, Volaris’ President and CEO said: “Our strategic fleet mitigation plan is on track and continues to deliver favourable outcomes; we have achieved our goals since the engine inspections began. We currently have a well-balanced market mix, with an increased presence in the cross-border market, that is strengthening our unit revenues. As shown with our July traffic, our booking curves similarly indicate robust performance for the summer high season.”

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Japan Airlines and ENEOS conclude an agreement on the sale and purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Japan Airlines Co. and ENEOS Corporation have signed an agreement on the sale and purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to accelerate its early implementation in Japan. Under this agreement, ENEOS will become the first Japanese leading energy company to import SAF and supply it to JAL, which is actively procuring SAF both in Japan and overseas.

In the aviation industry, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), has set a goal to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions from international flights by 2050 and aims to reduce emissions in the international aviation sector by 15% compared to 2019 levels starting from 2024. To accelerate the decarbonization of the aviation industry, the promotion of domestically produced SAF is crucial. As a first step towards this goal, both companies have agreed to promote the establishment of a domestic SAF supply chain through this agreement.

Moving forward, JAL and ENEOS will continue to work together to promote the widespread use of SAF in Japan and contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation industry.

Boeing delivers first MH-139A production aircraft to U.S. Air Force

Boeing has delivered the first MH-139A Grey Wolf production aircraft to the U.S. Air Force. This aircraft, part of a Low Rate Initial Production order in 2023 for 13 helicopters, will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.

“This aircraft will directly support ongoing U.S. Air Force modernization efforts,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 executive director and program manager. “Delivering this asset for the MH-139A fleet is critical to the future of national security as the Grey Wolf will play a crucial role in the U.S. nuclear triad for decades to come.”

In 2024, the U.S. Air Force awarded an additional seven MH-139As to Boeing. With six Research, Development, Test and Evaluation aircraft already delivered, Boeing currently has 26 aircraft on contract.

With a 50% increase in speed and range and a 5,000 pound-lb. increase in max gross weight compared it is predecessor, the MH-139A can execute multiple mission sets. Combined with lower operating costs, increased reliability and improved maintainability, the aircraft provides improved capability and greater flexibility for the U.S. Air Force.

The MH-139A team consists of Boeing as the prime contractor and Leonardo as an original equipment manufacturer. Leonardo produces the baseline helicopter at its plant in northeast Philadelphia, while Boeing is responsible for military equipment procurement and installation and post-delivery support of the aircraft.

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Grand Hyatt Kunming Opens in China's 'Spring City'

The 331-room hotel offers a distinctive luxury retreat in the heart of Kunming, blending elegance and opulence with the essence of Yunnan culture

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced this week the opening of Grand Hyatt Kunming, marking the debut of the Grand Hyatt brand in the heart of  China’s scenic southern Yunnan province, unveiling a new landmark of modern luxury and exceptional service inspired by Yunnan’s rich culture and charm.

Housed in Kunming’s prestigious Spring City 66 plaza, Grand Hyatt Kunming, together with Grand Hyatt Residences Kunming, a Grade-A office tower and luxury shopping mall with top-notch international brands in the complex, immerses guests in a one-stop destination for premium business, shopping, dining, entertainment and living in the heart of the city.

“We are thrilled to launch Grand Hyatt Kunming in collaboration with Hyatt, reinforcing our commitment to bring the best to Kunming and showcase the best of Kunming to the world. The opening further strengthens Spring City 66’s leadership as a premier lifestyle destination in Southwest China and injects new energy into the city’s travel, lifestyle, and business sectors, creating compelling spaces that enrich lives,” said Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Hang Lung Properties.

“With its focus on delivering elevated experiences in iconic destinations, we are excited to announce introduction of the Grand Hyatt brand to the beautiful city of Kunming,” said Stephen Ho, President Greater China and Growth, Asia Pacific at Hyatt Asia Pacific. “This opening is a splendid addition to Hyatt’s luxury portfolio, and its central location provides guests the perfect opportunity to discover all that the city has to offer.”

Known as the “Spring City” for its year-round spring-like climate, Kunming offers endless attractions for culture, food and nature lovers alike, from markets and museums to stunning forests and lakes, all easily accessible from the hotel’s unparalleled location. Neighboring attractions include Jinma Biji Square and Nanqiang Street, famed for its night market. The hotel is also steps from the Yunnan International Convention Center and Tuodong Sports Stadium, and only a two-minute walk from DongFeng Square metro station.

“We are delighted to welcome guests to Grand Hyatt Kunming, offering a tranquil haven of elegant living directly connected to Spring City 66, a landmark luxury shopping and lifestyle destination. Through the hotel’s distinctive design, innovative culinary experiences and heartfelt service, we look forward to creating unforgettable memories for our guests and providing a gateway to discover the richness and beauty of Yunnan culture,” said Louis Low, general manager, Grand Hyatt Kunming.

Contemporary Design Inspired by Yunnan Culture and Nature

ONEflight International Hosts Denver South Economic Development Event

On Thursday, August 1, 2024, ONEflight International, a leader in the Private Jet Travel industry, hosted a dynamic event at its Centennial Airport hangar in collaboration with the Centennial Airport Area Association (APA) and Denver South, an organization of community and business leaders along the South I-25 highway and rail corridor, working to create an environment where businesses and workers thrive.

Denver South organized the event to bring together aviation industry leaders, local stakeholders, and community members to discuss the future of aviation in Denver and the surrounding area.

The event featured insightful presentations by industry experts, including Dave Rajyagor VP of Strategic Initiatives at ONEflight International, Michael Fronapfel Executive Director/CEO of Centennial Airport, Rob Holland Founding Partner Creo Capital Partners, Michael Williams Director of Strategy and Marketing United Rotercraft, and David Worley, President and CEO of Denver South. Speakers delved into topics such as economic impact, infrastructure development, and the role of aviation in driving regional growth.

“We were thrilled to host this event at our hangar and bring together such an impressive group of industry leaders,” said Ferren Rajput, CEO at ONEflight International. “The collaboration between ONEflight, the Centennial Airport APA, and other key stakeholders is essential for the continued success of aviation in Denver.”

Airbus to build two radiometers for CNES for use on NASA/JAXA international climate satellite mission

Microwave radiometers tandem to measure the vertical velocity of clouds and water profile in the atmosphere

Airbus has been selected by the French Space Agency (CNES) to design and build two new generation microwave radiometers as part of the French contribution to the Atmosphere Observing System (AOS): the C²OMODO mission (Convective Core Observations through MicrOwave Derivatives in the trOpics). A cooperation between the United States, Canada, Japan, Italy and France, AOS’ goal is to optimise how we examine links between aerosols, clouds, atmospheric convection and precipitation. Encompassing six satellites as well as suborbital platforms in the air and on land, it will provide key data for improved forecasts of weather, air quality and climate.

“Working on climate missions is something that really matters to us at Airbus. Just a few weeks after launch of the EarthCARE mission with Europe and Japan, it is an honour to be part of another climate mission, this time NASA-led with international partners,” said Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus. “I would like to thank the French Space Agency, CNES, for supporting European industry: with this contract Airbus is further reinforcing its role in helping better understand clouds, weather and climate.”

UK no longer safe for tourists?

The UK is no longer a safe place for tourists to go to following a series of far-right riots that have targeted immigrants and refugees.  

A number of countries, including Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates are issuing warnings to their citizens about travelling to the UK.  

Australia is terming the disturbances as terrorism and warns citizens "Exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism."  It also advises on its Smart Traveller site hat people should "Avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence. Monitor the media for information and updates. Follow the instructions of local authorities."  This raised warning level says it may reflect a weak law-and-order system, where violent crime is common. The destination may lack some key public services, such as a responsive police force.

The UAE warns people should be cautious at its highest level and take precautions in light of the unstable security situation in various cities in the UK. It also warns against its citizens going to witness riots and protests and to avoid crowded areas.  Staff members have also been advised not to travel alone in the UK and take extra security officers on official business.  

Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the following statement: "The high commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria wishes to inform the Nigerian community in the United Kingdom it is closely monitoring the ongoing protests and riots in various towns following the stabbing in Southport on July 29. The riots, which have assumed a violent and disorderly outlook as evidenced by reported attacks on law enforcement agents and damages to properties and infrastructure, may spread across the country.

To this end, the Nigerian community is advised to be extra vigilant, stay away from protest areas and avoid large gatherings. The High Commission will keep the Nigerian community in the UK informed of any development as the situation unfolds."

The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned travellers and Malaysian residents in the UK should stay away from protest areas, remain vigilant and to follow the advice from local authorities. 

Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X used his vaulted position to spread misinformation and said that civil war in the UK was inevitable and is said to be offering funds to various organisations in the UK including the EDL. UK government officials have been warned against communicating via direct messages on X due to its lack of security and X staff being able to monitor and read such messages. 

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Japan Airlines prize announced for HERALBONY Art Prize 2024

Japan Airlines, as a gold sponsor, has selected the “JAL Prize” in the “HERALBONY Art Prize 2024,” an international art award for artists with disabilities organized by HERALBONY Co., Ltd. 

Shigaku Mizukami

As a child, he enjoyed drawing anime characters, but after he started attending Yamanami Workshop, he began drawing patterns as soon as he picked up the brushes and rulers available in the room. His work features countless colored fan-shapes and dots. The brush movements and the way he places dots are methodical, repeating the same actions slowly. It is unclear whether he has a specific image in mind, whether he is simply enjoying the colours and movements, or what he feels as he draws. However, the way he uses his brush for lines and the arrangement of dots seem to indicate how he is feeling at that moment in time.

Source: https://store.heralbony.jp/blogs/artists/shigakumizukami （Japanese only）

Reasons for selection

Mr. Mizukami’s work, which embodies diversity and free-spirited imagination, captured the hearts of many JAL Group employees. The various coloured dots seem to symbolize a range of people gathering and connecting, while the bright-coloured fan shapes evoke an image of freely soaring into the future with diverse personalities. It is truly a piece that resonates with the JAL Group, which connects the world through air travel.

Future developments

Mr. Mizukami's artwork selected for the JAL Prize will be featured in JAL Group’s international and domestic flight services. Opportunities for people around the world to encounter and connect with diverse values will be created by colouring their travel with Mr. Mizukami's artwork.

Collaboration measures with Mr. Mizukami's works

1. Ｐaper cups for inflight beverage service

  -  Period: October 2024 - November 2024

  -  Available on all routes

　　　　　　　　　Inflight paper cups （*Image）

2. Inflight amenities for Business Class

 -  Period: Scheduled for November 2024

 -  Available routes: Between Japan and Europe, USA (except Hawaii, Guam), Canada, and Australia

　　　　　　　　　Business Class Amenity

Saudia Group concludes a successful Hajj season 1445H

Saudia Group has announced its remarkable contributions to the success of Hajj Season 1445H through its integrated ecosystem that includes aviation, cargo, logistics, catering, ground services, and maintenance. Saudia transported over 1 million pilgrims on more than 5,000 flights spanning four continents and more than 100 destinations, accumulating 20,000 flight hours. The Group's low-cost carrier, flyadeal, contributed significantly by transporting more than 70,000 pilgrims and operating 440 flights.

The success of Saudia's flights was attributed to its highly skilled crew, totaling 1,800 Captains and First Officers, and 6,100 cabin crew members, adhering to the highest industry standards. Across the 74-day Hajj operations, Saudia operated at full capacity, ensuring operational efficiency with its fleet of 144 aircraft, as well as 14 additional aircraft dedicated to Hajj flights. The pilgrims' spiritual journey was enriched through a seamless digital booking, diverse meal options, prayer announcements, and informative inflight content.

Saudia Cargo played a pivotal role, leveraging innovative cargo services and a modern fleet, capitalizing on the Kingdom's strategic location to connect continents together and execute digital transformation plans. During the Hajj season, Saudia Cargo operated 717 flights, transporting 98,900 tons across 44,600 export air waybills.

Saudi Logistics Services (SAL), the primary cargo handler for various airlines at the Kingdom's air terminals, provided essential logistics solutions and intermodal transport connections during the Hajj Season operations. SAL managed 3.4 million cargo shipments, totaling 76 million kilograms in weight, and operated 14,200 flights, serving 59 airlines.

Japan Airlines introduces Disney+ Originals to inflight entertainment - A 1st for Japanese airlines

Japan Airlines is the first Japanese airline to introduce a selection of Disney+ Originals in its inflight entertainment on both international and domestic flights.

Disney+ offers beloved content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more. With the addition of Disney+ Originals, JAL's inflight entertainment now features an even wider variety of movies, dramas, and series, including exclusive original content, ensuring a magical journey in the sky.

The service commenced on July 1, 2024, for international flights and was introduced on domestic services on August 1, 2024. 

JAL provides entertainment services on all its aircraft, allowing passengers to enjoy movies, anime, and TV programs on personal monitors, or on their own smartphones and tablets, even on aircraft without built-in monitors, ensuring a comfortable journey for all. The latest Airbus A350-1000 features 4K monitors and Bluetooth connectivity in all classes, and the world's first in-seat speakers in First and Business Class, offering an even more immersive inflight entertainment experience. Additionally, JAL plans to offer free inflight Wi-Fi on international flights to enhance the internet connectivity environment.

Through continuously evolving inflight entertainment, JAL aims to create the best possible journey tailored to each customer's needs.

Junko SAKIHARA, Deputy Senior Vice President of Customer Experience Dept said: "We are delighted to be the first airline in Japan to offer a wide range of Disney+ Originals on both domestic and international flights. We are very pleased to provide a comfortable journey to many of our customers. JAL aims to offer services that allow each customer to choose according to their preferences, through a variety of inflight entertainment and stable inflight Wi-Fi. During this summer vacation, please create unforgettable memories with your family and friends by enjoying the wonderful works of Disney+ Originals on JAL flights."

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For more details on Japan Airlines inflight entertainment, click here.

Emirates FA Cup Title Partnership Extended Until 2028

The Football Association in the UK has extended its long-term global partnership of the FA Cup with Emirates for a further four years – and the world’s most iconic domestic cup competition will continue to be called the Emirates FA Cup until 2028.

The new four-year partnership extension between Emirates and the FA Cup will begin at the start of the 2024/25 season, and further increases Emirates’ commitment to The FA’s flagship competition which first began in 2015 and has resulted in many years of successful collaboration.

Each season, over 700 clubs and 10,000 players across ten levels of the English football pyramid compete in the historic competition, which culminates in the Final at Wembley Stadium. Across the 2023/24 season, over 96 million viewers tuned in to watch the Emirates FA Cup, with over eight million watching the Final between Manchester City and Manchester United. The global appeal of the competition also continues to go from strength to strength, with matches broadcast in over 200 countries worldwide.

The new agreement between The FA and Emirates includes creating exciting opportunities for fans around the world to engage with the Emirates FA Cup over the coming seasons, including an annual international Emirates FA Cup Trophy Tour. During the partnership, thousands of fans have had the chance to see the competition’s famous trophy in person, with tours to Ghana, Kenya, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea and the United States, which were all supported by Emirates.

Poseidon achieves success on Indo-Pacific Exercise

The RAF has concluded its participation in Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2024 (RIMPAC) in Hawaii, the world's largest international maritime exercise.

For the exercise a pair of Poseidon MRA.1 maritime patrol aircraft were flown 10,000 miles to Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam to participate in an exercise of a scale and complexity unavailable anywhere else in the world.

Air Commodore Paton, ISTAR Force Commander said: “RIMPAC is huge. The Poseidon Force is still in growth, still learning, and to be able to come out here and operate with a whole plethora of capabilities, both surface and sub-surface, is a serious level of complexity for the crews to be able to operate successfully.”

With 29 nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, and over 25,000 personnel, RIMPAC provided a unique training opportunity and has helped build and reinforce the International partnerships critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans.

Wing Commander Henderson said  “It’s great to see us out here again with our first global deployment. We’ve operated locally in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean, but this is truly another level for Poseidon and a whole team effort.

To be able to deploy to Hawaii and sustain operations at home at the same time shows just how far Poseidon as a force has come, and it’s absolutely amazing to have this opportunity.”

Officer Commanding Air Wing Support, RAF Lossiemouth, and UK Detachment Commander for the exercise

The planning for the exercise took 12 months and represents the latest milestone for RAF maritime patrol representing as it did the largest detachment the Poseidon Force has achieved to date, for the longest amount of time, and at the greatest distance.

Singapore Airlines reports net profit of $452 million

Group revenue increased by $239 million (+5.3%) year-on-year to $4,718 million in the three months ending 30 June 2024. Passenger flown revenue rose by $152 million (+4.1%) to $3,828 million, supported by a 13.8% increase in passengers carried, despite a 4.6% decline in yields. Passenger traffic rose 9.7% year-on-year against a 12.2% growth in capacity, resulting in a 2.0 percentage point drop in the Group passenger load factor (PLF) to 86.9%.

 

Cargo flown revenue was marginally lower than a year before, declining $1 million (-0.2%) to $541 million. Overall air cargo demand remained buoyant, supported by strong e-commerce flows and increased demand for air freight driven by the Red Sea crisis and port congestion. This helped to raise cargo load factor to 57.7% (+5.9 percentage points) and mitigate the impact from lower cargo yields (-19.1%) due to increased belly hold cargo capacity. 

Group expenditure rose by $523 million (+14.0%) to $4,248 million, with fuel and non-fuel expenditure increasing by $317 million (+30.1%) and $206 million (+7.7%) respectively. Net fuel cost increased to $1,370 million, mainly due to higher volumes uplifted (+$147 million), an 8.1% increase in fuel prices (+$105 million), and a lower fuel hedging gain (+$52 million). The 7.7% rise in non-fuel expenditure was less than the 11.6% increase in overall passenger and cargo capacity.

As a result, the Group’s operating profit for the quarter declined by $285 million (-37.7%) from the previous year to $470 million. In addition to the weaker operating performance, a reduction in net interest income (-$22 million), lower surplus on disposal of aircraft, spares, and spare engines (-$8 million), and lower share of profits of associated companies (-$6 million) contributed to the decline in the Group net profit to $452 million (-$282 million or -38.4%). This 

decline was partially mitigated by a lower tax expense (+$41 million). 

Balance Sheet

Emirates to operate second A380 Service to Bali to serve seasonal demand

      Emirates has announced that it will operate a second daily A380 service between Dubai and Bali, starting 1 September and until 26 October, to meet the surge in travel demand to the island during the upcoming peak season. 

From 1 September to 26 October 2024, Emirates’ flight EK398/399 between Dubai (DXB) and Bali (DPS) will be upgraded to an Airbus A380, replacing the current Boeing 777 service. 

The upgraded service will build upon the success of Emirates' first-ever A380 service to Indonesia, launched on 1 June 2023, while also driving more inbound traffic to Bali during one of the busiest times of the year and seamlessly connecting travelers from Indonesia to Dubai and beyond through Emirates’ extensive global network. 

Emirates continues to reinforce its long-standing commitment to providing world-class travel experiences and supporting Indonesia’s growing travel and tourism sector. By serving Bali with double A380 flights, the airline will offer more than 2,600 additional weekly seats to and from the island to help accommodate the growing demand during the peak travel season. With this additional service, more passengers to and from Indonesia can enjoy the iconic double-decker's best-in-class products and services, including its spacious cabins, the exclusive Onboard Lounge, and ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system offering over 6,500 channels of on-demand entertainment.

Emirates launched a non-stop daily service from Dubai to Bali in 2015, adding to its scheduled flights to Jakarta which began in 1992. Emirates flies to more than 144 destinations across six continents and currently offers double daily flights to Jakarta and Bali.

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Emirates reveals five most popular travel destinations among Koreans....

 As the summer vacation season hits its peak, Emirates, the largest international airline in the world, has unveiled the top five summer travel destinations that have been gaining popularity among Korean travellers - Zurich, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, and Prague. With its extensive global network and world-class products and services, Emirates continues to be the airline of choice for thousands of Korean passengers seeking to explore new and exciting destinations, having carried over 35,000 passengers last summer season alone between Incheon and Dubai, as well as beyond.

1.       Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is known for its unique mixture of metropolitan charm with the vibrant beauty of nature. Visitors can soak up the sunshine while exploring the scenic Old Town, take a refreshing Lake Zurich cruise, or indulge in shopping along the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets. For those seeking summer adventures, the city provides easy access to thrilling alpine activities like Mt. Titlis and Jungfraujoch, providing a perfect escape from the heat.  

Emirates operates double daily flights between Dubai and Zurich, using a mix of A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft.

2.       Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona bursts with energy and charm during the summer. While in the city, people can enjoy the lively Barceloneta Beach with its surf-friendly waves and beachfront restaurants. Visitors can also dive into the city’s buzzing nightlife at Chiringuitos, which is always full of live music and festive atmosphere. Don’t forget to explore Central Barcelona at Plaça de Catalunya, a historic square connecting the Gothic Quarter with the modern Eixample.

Emirates operates double daily flights between Dubai and Barcelona, using a mix of A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft.

3.       Rome, Italy

In summer, Rome comes alive with warm, sunny days perfect for exploring its iconic landmarks and vibrant piazzas. Early risers can enjoy cooler temperatures while visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum before the crowds arrive or leisurely stroll along the Tiber River to escape the heat. For a refreshing break, visitors can take a dip in a nearby beach or cool off with gelato at one of the city’s charming cafes.

Emirates operates double daily A380 flights between Dubai and Rome, and offers travellers train connections to/ from Rome Roma Termini Rail Station (XRJ) in partnership with Trenitalia.

GoJet looking for staff.

GoJet Airlines, a premier U.S. regional airline operating as United Express. that flies the Bombardier CRJ-550 jet. The planes have a first-class cabin with a state-of-the-art refreshment centre, an economy plus section and a main coach cabin along with 4 monuments designed for roller bags to provide ample room for each customer. GoJet is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri and has crew bases in St. Louis, Chicago, Washington Dulles, and Newark. The carrier is currently looking for more staff. 

Maintenance - GoJet Airlines

More vacancies including cabin crew, pilots and first officers.

Rocket Lab successfully completes latest launch for Synspective

Rocket Lab USA, Inc., a global leader in launch services and space systems, confirmed it had successfully launched its 51st Electron rocket and deployed a single satellite to low Earth orbit for Synspective, a Japanese Earth-imaging company.

The mission, named “Owl For One, One For Owl” in a nod to Synspective’s StriX satellites named after the genus for owls, lifted off at 04:39 a.m., August 3rd NZT (16:39 UTC, August 2nd) from Launch Complex 1, Rocket Lab’s private orbital launch site on New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula. The mission deployed the fifth of Synspective’s StriX SAR-imaging satellites to low Earth orbit. In addition to the launch service, Rocket Lab provided a custom Electron fairing to encapsulate the StriX satellite and also performed an advanced mid-mission manoeuvre with Electron’s Kick Stage to shield the satellite from the sun and reduce radiation exposure on its way to orbit.

Rocket Lab has been the sole launch provider for Synspective’s constellation to date. This mission was the fifth launch of a total of 16 launches booked on Electron for Synspective and the second launch for the Japanese company this year, after the “Owl Night Long” mission launched in March 2024. Most recently, Synspective booked ten dedicated Electron launches as part of a new multi-launch agreement announced in June 2024, with the launches in that new deal set to take place across 2025-2027.

Rocket Lab founder and CEO Sir Peter Beck says: “It’s wonderful to have launched our second mission for Synspective in five months as we continue our longstanding launch partnership. Electron is the ideal rocket for providing flexible, tailored, and direct access to orbit for constellation builders like Synspective, and I’m proud of the team for delivering this latest mission success."

The launch window for Rocket Lab’s next Electron mission will be announced in the coming days.

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Julia Wetter-Studinka named new Head of Regional Sales Switzerland for SWISS

Julia Wetter-Studinka has been appointed as SWISS’s new Head of Regional Sales Switzerland. She will take up her duties on 1 September 2024. Wetter-Studinka, who presently serves as SWISS’s Head of Corporate & TMC Key Account Management, succeeds Marco Willa, who has assumed a new function as Head of Onboard Experience for the Lufthansa Group.

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has appointed Julia Wetter-Studinka as its new Head of Regional Sales Switzerland. In this capacity Wetter-Studinka will drive and promote the commercial sales activities of all the Lufthansa Group’s passenger airlines in Switzerland, with due and full regard to competitor developments and market trends. She will report directly to Johannes Walter, Vice President Area Management Home Markets Lufthansa Group, and to SWISS Chief Commercial Officer Heike Birlenbach. Wetter-Studinka succeeds Marco Willa, who assumed new responsibilities at the beginning of August as Head of Onboard Experience for the Lufthansa Group.

Seaplane operator Tailwind Air halts scheduled operations

Seaplane operator Tailwind Air which flew flights between New York and Boston has halted services due to a lack of passenger numbers.  

According to The Boston Globe, the airline's CEO Alan Ram had been working with possible partners to revive the flights to Boston Harbour during the summer, yet nothing had been achieved thus far. “If we can find the right partner, we’ll keep doing it.”

The airline mainly flew Cessna Caravans with room for eight passengers per flight, however, loads were on average half that and one person less than the five passengers the carrier needed to break even. Tailwind flew almost 3,000 passengers last year, compared with 2,700 in 2022.   

The airline will continue with charter operations for the time being. 

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U.S. Air Force brother and U.S. Army sister deliver medical transport in joint mission

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Sarah Krieger, Tripler Army Medical Center nurse, was coordinating an air medical transport operation for a patient when she realized her brother, U.S. Air Force Capt. Zackary Krieger, 21st Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III pilot, would be piloting the C-17 coming to transport them, reports Story by Airman 1st Class Robert Nichols.

Zackary was flying a routine training mission when he received a tasking for medical transport, the operation resulting in a surprise family reunion with his younger sister, Sarah.

Sarah’s patient needed transportation first to Travis AFB, then to a medical facility in Tampa, Florida. After more than a month of waiting, she joked with the patient, U.S. Navy Lt. Anthony Cristofari, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard nuclear power limited duty officer, from time-to-time that she would “just call her brother”, an Air Force pilot stationed at Travis, to fly him there.

Zackary and Sarah grew up in Buffalo, New York. From an entirely Army family, Zackary chose a different path and joined the Air Force.

"They told me if I want quality of life, join the Air Force,” said Zackary.

Zackary commissioned in 2019 and went to undergraduate pilot training to be trained as a C-17 pilot. His sister chose to carry on the family tradition and joined the Army as a nurse.

Cathay plans to bolster its ASEAN network to seize growth opportunities with regional markets Enhancing connectivity with ASEAN partners to grow the Hong Kong international aviation hub

Joining a high-level delegation led by Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR Government John Lee Ka-chiu, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam concluded a six-day visit to three ASEAN countries — Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam — underscoring the region’s significance to Cathay’s expanding network and future growth, as well as to Hong Kong’s economic development.

Throughout the eye-opening visit, Lam toured a variety of local enterprises and major infrastructure projects in these countries, gaining valuable insights into their latest developments while seeking out new avenues to foster synergy and strengthen ties in trade, commerce, technology and tourism between Hong Kong and the vibrant ASEAN region.

Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said: “As Hong Kong’s home carrier, Cathay is committed to furthering the growth of Hong Kong as an international aviation hub and enhancing connectivity between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland to the rest of the world. Our visit to the three ASEAN countries attests to the immense potential we see in these dynamic regional markets.

“The completion of Hong Kong International Airport’s Three-Runway System will unlock great opportunities for us to grow for the future. We will continue to strengthen our existing routes, and deepen our network and collaboration across ASEAN to seize these growth opportunities.”