flydubai signs Buckingham Palace Declaration
flydubai has officially signed the Buckingham Palace Declaration, joining United for Wildlife’s global Transport Taskforce to help combat illegal wildlife trafficking. Founded by Prince William and The Royal Foundation, the initiative aims to protect endangered species by disrupting trafficking routes and strengthening supply-chain security.
As part of the taskforce, the airline will work with airlines, customs authorities and law-enforcement agencies to enhance cargo and passenger screening, share intelligence, and prevent illegal wildlife products from entering legitimate transport networks.
Munich named ‘Airport of the Year 2026’
Munich Airport was named Airport of the Year at the 51st ATW Annual Airline Industry Achievement Awards in Lisbon. The award recognises the airport for its exemplary role in the areas of airline partnership, innovation, growth, and sustainability. This is demonstrated by the airport's exemplary cooperation with airlines, such as Lufthansa in the joint venture in Terminal 2. Other highlights included the opening of the bus depot for electric buses, the commissioning of solar-powered charging stations for electric vehicles, and the testing of autonomous wheelchairs for passengers with reduced mobility.
Pegasus to acquire Czech Airlines, Smartwings
Pegasus Airlines has agreed to acquire Czech Airlines and its subsidiary Smartwings for €154 million ($180 million) marking a major step in its international growth strategy. The transaction, which includes receivables, is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions.
The acquisition aims to strengthen Pegasus Airlines’ presence in Europe and support its global expansion by combining the experience, networks, and resources of all three carriers. Smartwings and Czech Airlines together operate a fleet of 47 aircraft and serve 80 destinations across 20 countries, with a strong focus on leisure travel in Central and Eastern Europe.
RAK plans VVIP terminal, private jet hangar
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has announced the development of a VVIP terminal and private jet hangar in collaboration with Falcon Executive Aviation, part of Alex Group Investment, at the Dubai Airshow 2025.
The project includes a 1,500 sqm luxury terminal, 8,000 sqm multi-purpose hangar, and 9,000 sqm apron, positioning the airport as a key gateway for VVIPs to the Northern Emirates. Located just 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah’s premier beach resorts and the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island, the facility will feature royal and VVIP lounges, private aviation infrastructure, and support for future air mobility.
Designed to LEED Gold standards, the development will incorporate solar energy, electric ground equipment, and sustainable aviation fuel. Construction will take 15 months, with opening planned for Q1 2027.
Emirates introduces Asia Pass
Emirates has launched the Emirates Asia Pass, a new product that allows travellers to visit multiple Southeast Asian cities on one ticket.
The pass covers Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore and Laos, letting customers book 1 to 10 regional flights under a single itinerary. Travellers can mix destinations, revisit cities, and manage all flights through one booking, avoiding the need to purchase separate tickets on different airlines.
Key gateways include Singapore, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, with onward flights operated by Emirates and partner airlines. Changes to flights are allowed for a $15 fee per change, offering added flexibility.