RSG completes AlWajh Airport upgrade
Red Sea Global (RSG) has completed the modernisation of AlWajh International Airport in northwest Saudi Arabia, marking the first infrastructure project delivered under its expanded mandate beyond tourism development. The upgraded airport has resumed operations, with Saudia operating flights from Riyadh and Jeddah, while international services are expected soon.
The airport can now accommodate commercial aircraft, including the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families, as well as seaplanes and helicopters. Annual passenger capacity has increased from 100,000 to 500,000, with the terminal handling up to 330 passengers per hour across four gates.
New facilities include premium lounges, coffee shops, a mini-market, car rental services and parking facilities, while the design reflects the heritage of AlWajh and the wider Tabuk coastline.
flydubai wins triple aviation honour
flydubai has won three major honours at the Aviation Achievement Awards 2026, including Airline of the Year, recognising the Dubai-based carrier’s agility, innovation and strategic growth. The airline also received the Trailblazer Award for Outstanding New Service Launch for enhancements such as its dedicated Business Class check-in, Business Lounge and cabin upgrades, as well as the Best Airline Talent Development & Workforce Strategy award.
In 2025, the carrier introduced improvements across both Business and Economy Class, expanded its training programmes, launched its Ab Initio Pilot Training initiative, and announced the development of its Aircraft Maintenance Centre at Dubai South.
Additional customer-focused enhancements included new Travel Shops in Deira and Sharjah, upgrades to the Economy Class experience and the introduction of Starlink-powered onboard Wi-Fi.
Xiamen Airlines to host IATA AGM 2027
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that Xiamen Airlines will host the 83rd IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) in Xiamen, China, from May 30 to June 1, 2027. The event will bring together aviation leaders from around the world to discuss key industry trends.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh highlighted China’s importance to global aviation, noting that the country is home to some of the world’s largest airlines and is leading the adoption of technology and digitalisation to improve efficiency. He said hosting the AGM in China will allow industry leaders to witness the continued growth of the Chinese aviation market.
The decision was made during the 82nd IATA AGM in Rio de Janeiro. This will be the third time China has hosted the AGM, following Shanghai in 2002 and Beijing in 2012, and the first time the event will be held in Xiamen.
Qatar Airways returns to Philadelphia
Qatar Airways has announced the resumption of daily flights between Doha and Philadelphia, effective August 1, 2026, further strengthening its presence in North America. The restored route expands the airline’s North American network to 14 destinations and enhances connectivity for travellers across the United States.
The service will be operated using the Airbus A350-900, featuring Qatar Airways’ award-winning Qsuite Business Class and Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi.
The return of Philadelphia flights reflects Qatar Airways’ commitment to the U.S. market. Passengers will also benefit from enhanced onward connectivity through Qatar Airways’ oneworld partner, American Airlines.