Air India and Air New Zealand have announced a significant codeshare partnership, marking a major step forward in strengthening air connectivity between India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. The agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on March 19, 2025, in Mumbai.

The event was attended by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson, and other dignitaries. This collaboration is expected to not only simplify travel for passengers but also boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Under the codeshare arrangement, passengers traveling from key Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai will be able to connect seamlessly via major transit hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore to popular destinations in New Zealand, including Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.

The codeshare will allow travelers to book their entire journey on a single ticket with coordinated baggage handling and streamlined connections. This partnership is particularly significant as it bridges the gap between two regions that currently lack direct air connectivity.

A key highlight of the MoU is the exploration of launching direct flights between India and New Zealand by 2028. While this plan hinges on new aircraft deliveries and regulatory clearances, it represents a transformative opportunity for both countries. At present, travelers face long connecting flights that can take up to 30 hours; a direct route would reduce travel time significantly and enhance convenience for both business and leisure travelers.

The introduction of direct flights could also stimulate economic activity by facilitating smoother trade relations and increasing tourism flows.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s potential to expand Air India’s global footprint. He noted that the codeshare aligns with Air India’s broader strategy of forging alliances with leading global carriers—such as its recent agreements with Lufthansa Group and Singapore Airlines—to provide customers with greater connectivity options.

Wilson also highlighted his personal connection to New Zealand as a motivating factor in fostering closer ties between the two nations.

Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran underscored India’s growing importance as a key market for tourism and travel demand. He pointed out that Indian visitors to New Zealand have been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2023 alone, over 87,000 Indians visited New Zealand—a 23% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Additionally, data shows that over 18 million Indians actively consider visiting New Zealand annually. Foran emphasized that this codeshare partnership is an important first step toward understanding travel patterns and building demand for future direct services.

The partnership also reflects broader geopolitical and economic trends. With India emerging as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and New Zealand seeking to diversify its international connections post-pandemic, this collaboration is well-timed. It supports both countries’ goals of fostering stronger bilateral relations through enhanced people-to-people ties and increased business opportunities.

Beyond tourism and trade benefits, the partnership could pave the way for greater cultural exchange between the two nations. New Zealand has a vibrant Indian diaspora community that plays an integral role in its multicultural fabric. Improved connectivity is likely to strengthen ties within this community while encouraging more Indians to explore opportunities in education, business, and leisure in New Zealand.

As both airlines are members of the Star Alliance network, this partnership leverages their shared commitment to providing world-class service and seamless travel experiences. With Air India undergoing significant transformation under its new ownership by Tata Group—focusing on fleet modernization and network expansion—and Air New Zealand continuing its efforts to attract international travelers post-COVID-19 recovery, this collaboration represents a win-win for both carriers.

In summary, this codeshare agreement between Air India and Air New Zealand is more than just an operational partnership—it is a strategic initiative aimed at unlocking new opportunities for connectivity, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between two vibrant regions of the world.

Air India, the sole Indian carrier operating direct flights between Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, has extended the suspension of its Tel Aviv route until May 25, 2025. This decision follows a Houthi missile attack near Ben Gurion Airport on May 4, which forced an Air India flight from Delhi to Tel Aviv to divert to Abu Dhabi mid-journey for safety reasons.

 Initially, the suspension was set to last only until May 6 and then extended to May 8. However, escalating regional tensions and ongoing security concerns have prompted the airline to prolong the halt to ensure passenger and crew safety. Air India announced on social media that affected passengers with valid tickets for travel up to May 25 will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling fees or full refunds, reflecting a customer-centric approach amid uncertainty.

 The suspension impacts approximately 1,500 weekly seats, disrupting vital connectivity between India and Israel, a corridor significant for trade and diaspora links. Passengers are advised to explore alternative routes via Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai or Istanbul, operated by carriers such as Emirates and Turkish Airlines, though these options add several hours to travel time.

 This move aligns with safety advisories from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation and follows similar temporary suspensions by other international airlines, including Lufthansa and British Airways, due to the volatile security situation around Tel Aviv. The Houthi missile attack, part of a broader campaign in support of Palestinians, has heightened aviation risks in the region, with Ben Gurion Airport facing intermittent threats.

 Operationally, Air India is reallocating its Airbus A320neo aircraft from the Tel Aviv route to other high-demand domestic and international sectors, helping to mitigate financial losses amid regional instability. The airline’s cautious extension of the suspension underscores its commitment to safety while preparing for a gradual market recovery once conditions stabilize.

 Passengers seeking assistance can contact Air India’s customer service or visit the airline’s website for updates and rebooking options. The situation remains fluid, and travelers are encouraged to monitor official channels closely.

 This comprehensive update reflects the latest developments on Air India’s Tel Aviv flight suspension due to security concerns following the missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport.

Vietnam Airlines has triumphantly resumed its direct flight service between Hanoi and Moscow on May 8, 2025, ending a three-year hiatus. The inaugural flight VN63 departed Noi Bai International Airport at 9:45 a.m. and landed at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo International Airport at 3:40 p.m. local time, carrying 254 passengers at full capacity. To celebrate this milestone, all passengers received commemorative gifts from the national flag carrier.

Initially, Vietnam Airlines will operate two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays using the modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, renowned for its Skytrax 4-star comfort on the nearly nine-hour journey. Starting July 2026, the airline plans to increase frequency to three flights per week to accommodate growing travel demand between Vietnam and Russia.

 
Russia remains a vital tourism market for Vietnam. In 2024, over 232,000 Russian visitors traveled to Vietnam-an 85% increase from the previous year. Early 2025 figures show a 204% surge in Russian tourists compared to 2024, underscoring the importance of this restored air link. The direct flights provide convenient access not only between Hanoi and Moscow but also onward connections across Southeast Asia and Europe. Favorable visa policies, such as Vietnam’s 45-day visa exemption for Russian citizens and Russia’s expedited electronic visa for Vietnamese nationals, are expected to further boost bilateral tourism and business exchanges in 2025.

 
Vietnam Airlines’ CEO Le Hong Ha highlighted that the relaunch of this route symbolizes a strengthened partnership and enhanced connectivity between the two nations. The airline, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, is also restoring 15 international routes to key destinations including Italy, India, and the UAE, reflecting its commitment to expanding global reach.

 
This resumption marks a new chapter in Vietnam-Russia ties, making travel smoother and fostering deeper cultural and economic connections.
 
 

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is taking flight into a new era of global connectivity. Headquartered in Jeddah and operating from its twin hubs at King Abdulaziz International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudia has rapidly grown from a regional player to a powerhouse on the world stage. In 2025, the airline is not just expanding-it’s soaring, with a bold vision to connect the Kingdom to 250 destinations by 2030.

A Surge in International Reach

This year, Saudia has announced the addition of more than ten new destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including Vienna, Venice, Larnaca, Athens, Heraklion, Nice, Malaga, Bali, Antalya, El Alamein, and Salalah. The move comes on the heels of a 16% surge in international passenger numbers last year, underscoring the airline’s growing appeal and the Kingdom’s emergence as a global travel hub.

Director General Ibrahim Al-Omar emphasized Saudia’s commitment to excellence, stating, “Our destination selection is based on comprehensive feasibility studies and guest preferences. We are committed to providing our international guests with exceptional travel experiences that combine comfort, efficiency, and authentic Saudi hospitality”.

Busiest International Routes: The Top 10 in 2025

Saudia’s network is as diverse as its ambitions. Here are the airline’s busiest international routes, ranked by weekly seat capacity :

• Jeddah–Cairo: The busiest corridor, with 63 weekly flights and nearly 19,000 seats, serving business, tourism, and a large Egyptian expatriate community.

• Riyadh–Dubai: Eight daily flights make this route a vital link for business and leisure, with over 11,800 weekly seats.

• Dubai–Jeddah: A key air bridge with 7 daily flights, supporting religious, business, and leisure travel.

• Riyadh–London Heathrow: The flagship long-haul route, operated exclusively by Boeing 777-300ERs, connecting Saudi Arabia to the UK’s capital with 8,734 seats weekly.

• Riyadh–Cairo: Four daily flights underline strong ties between the two capitals.

• Dhaka–Jeddah: Serving the Bangladeshi expatriate community and pilgrims, with 20 weekly flights.

• Jeddah–Jakarta: A crucial religious and cultural corridor, especially during Hajj and Ramadan.

• London Heathrow–Jeddah: Sixteen weekly Dreamliner flights enhance links to Europe.

• Jeddah–Casablanca: Strengthening ties with Morocco, supporting both tourism and business.

• Kuala Lumpur–Jeddah: A popular route for Umrah and leisure, operated by the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

Fleet and Future Ambitions

To support its explosive growth, Saudia operates a modern fleet of 159 aircraft, with plans for 128 more to join by 2030. The airline’s daily operations now exceed 530 flights, and its SkyTeam alliance membership ensures seamless global connections.

Vision 2030: Connecting the Kingdom to the World

Saudia’s expansion is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading global travel and business hub. As new routes open and the fleet grows, Saudia is not just keeping pace with global demand-it’s setting the standard for the region and beyond.

Bottom Line:
From bustling regional routes to far-reaching intercontinental flights, Saudia’s sky-high ambitions are redefining what it means to connect Saudi Arabia with the world. With a record-breaking network, a modern fleet, and a relentless focus on guest experience, Saudia’s journey is just beginning.

Etihad Airways has announced the revival of select flights to Pakistan, coinciding with a recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. This decision marks a significant development following a period of increased tensions that led to the temporary suspension of air travel in the region. The Pakistan Airports Authority has confirmed that all airports are now fully operational, allowing airlines to resume normal flight operations.

Effective May 11, 2025, Etihad will operate several daytime flights, including routes from Abu Dhabi to major cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. However, some evening flights scheduled for the same day have been canceled due to ongoing regional uncertainties. The airline intends to restore its full flight schedule to Pakistan by May 12, subject to further developments.

This resumption is a vital step toward reestablishing air travel between the UAE and Pakistan, benefiting both tourism and business sectors. The ceasefire, achieved through diplomatic negotiations, is viewed as a hopeful yet fragile improvement, especially as tensions persist in certain areas, notably Kashmir.

Etihad Airways has reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and is actively monitoring the situation in collaboration with relevant authorities. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about their flights, as conditions continue to evolve.

Overall, this move not only signals a positive shift in diplomatic relations but also aims to mitigate the disruptions experienced by travelers and the aviation industry in the region.

A former Ryanair pilot is at the center of a major drugs scandal after being charged with possessing more than €10 million worth of cannabis, sending shockwaves through Ireland’s aviation and legal circles.

Brendan O’Meara, 62, who recently resigned from Ryanair, appeared before a special sitting of Ennis District Court on Saturday after gardaí seized two large pallets of cannabis at his Meelick, Co Clare home on May 7. The street value of the haul is one of the largest in recent Irish criminal history.

O’Meara faces two serious charges under the Misuse of Drugs Act: possession of cannabis for sale or supply, which carries a potential life sentence, and simple possession. Judge Marie Keane described the quantity as “enormous” and, citing the gravity of the charges, refused bail after hearing gardaí objections. Officers argued O’Meara posed a significant flight risk due to alleged international criminal connections and his recent plans to relocate to the United States.

The court heard that O’Meara had intended to move abroad to care for his brother, who has Parkinson’s disease, but gardaí insisted that if released, he could attempt to abscond. The former pilot, supported in court by his wife and relatives, was remanded to Limerick Prison and is scheduled to reappear via video link on May 14.

The case has sparked debate about airline personnel vetting and the broader implications for Ireland’s legal system, with legal analysts predicting further investigation into possible international links behind the trafficking operation. As the high-profile case unfolds, both Ryanair and the Irish courts face growing scrutiny over how such a dramatic fall from grace could occur within the cockpit and beyond.