Southwest Airlines introduces its new cabin design on Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 N8972S

Southwest Airlines made this announcement:

Southwest Airlines^® is celebrating a major milestone in our journey to give Customers more choice with the delivery of the first aircraft with an updated cabin. This new aircraft provides a tangible way for our Customers to experience our elevated product, including:

Updated cabin design;
New aircraft seats made by RECARO;
The Extra Legroom¹ experience, including enhanced snack options² (coming soon); and,
Larger overhead bins, in-seat power at every seat, and seatback design updates.

The Boeing MAX 8 aircraft (tail number N8972S) is expected to enter service on Thurs., Oct. 16. Each new aircraft Southwest® receives from Boeing will include these features, delivering on Southwest’s fleet modernization plans and bringing an elevated onboard experience with premium options to our Customers.

Our New Cabin Design

Southwest is introducing an updated cabin look with new RECARO R2 seats, a refreshed lighting package, updated carpet, and other unique design details. The look centers around a palette of blue tones that connect to our Brand while pairing seamlessly with our new seats.

The design is based on extensive research covering Customer and Employee perceptions of color, comfort, and aspirations for the overall onboard experience, and it’s meant to create a cabin environment that feels modern, welcoming, and uniquely Southwest.

RECARO Seats

In 2024, we selected RECARO—the global supplier of premium aircraft seats—to provide comfortable seating, based on Customer research and product testing. These new seats will be installed on all new Southwest aircraft deliveries, and we will be retrofitting a few of our current -800s with RECARO seats later this year.

RECARO seats are intuitively designed for ultimate comfort, while maximizing seat width and overall support. Every multi-adjustable headrest cushion features a Southwest Heart, while the seat features a sunray pattern.

The Extra Legroom (ELR) Experience, Including Enhanced Snack Options!

The cabin features Extra Legroom (ELR) sections that provide our Customers a roomier experience with more room to stretch out at the front of the cabin and near the Exit rows.

RECARO ELR seats will iconically stand out from the rest of the cabin, featuring a sky blue sunray design that is visible from the front and back.

When we begin operating with assigned and premium seating on Jan. 27, 2026, Customers in our Extra Legroom seats will have an enhanced experience throughout their journey. In addition to the extra legroom ELR seats provide, Customers in these seats will receive:

Boarding Group 1 or 2, providing earlier access to overhead bin space³;
Complimentary premium beverages; and,
Enhanced snack options.

We are pleased to announce that Customers seated in ELR seats will have the option to choose from Wonderful® Pistachios No Shells, both the Roasted & Saltedand Honey Roasted flavors, in addition to our current snacks. These new onboard offerings provide more options exclusively for Customers in our most premium seats, while harkening back to our history with a nod to the lightly salted and honey roasted peanuts we previously served onboard.

Larger Overhead Bins, In-Seat Power at Every Seat, and Seatback Design Updates

Southwest has been hard at work to update our fleet with in-seat power and larger overhead bins for carryon storage.

This aircraft and all new deliveries feature the larger overhead bins and a USB-A and USB-C port on each seatback, providing Customers with in-seat power to charge their phones, tablets, laptops, and more.

In addition, the new RECARO seatbacks also include a personal electronic device holder, designed to allow Customers a comfortable way to enjoy inflight entertainment; and a tray table with two inset beverage holders—one for right-hand flyers and one for left.

More Onboard Enhancements to Come

In addition to the new features available on new aircraft deliveries beginning this week, Southwest continues to elevate the onboard experience for our Customers through 2026 and beyond. These include:

Modernizing our -700s;
Free WiFi⁴ for all Rapid Rewards Members® thanks to T-Mobile®; and,
Refreshed uniforms.

Modernizing Our -700s

As we work to enhance the Customer experience across our fleet and provide more consistent offerings, we will modernize more than half of our Boeing 737-700s by adding in-seat power, work that is expected to begin in the second half of 2026 and aimed to be completed by mid-2027. Aircraft expected to remain in our fleet longest are being prioritized for this upgrade.

Free WiFi is Coming for Rapid Rewards Members

As we announced last month, we’ll offer free inflight WiFi, thanks to T-Mobile, to all Rapid Rewards Members, beginning Oct. 24, 2025! As we continue to enhance our onboard experience, inflight WiFi is a key element in that journey and allows us to provide meaningful value to our loyal Customers.

Refreshed Uniforms

As a complement to the elevated cabin design, a uniform refresh for Southwest Employees who work in and around airports, including Inflight Operations, Ground Operations, Provisioning, Cargo, Ground Support Equipment Teams, and Technical Operations, is expected to rollout in 2027.

¹Up to five additional inches of extra legroom compared to Standard and Preferred seats. Seat pitch will vary by aircraft type.

²Excluding Hawaii interisland flights, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are served on select flights 251 miles or more. If you’re flying between Hawaii and the continental U.S., you’ll have more snacks to choose from. Service may also be limited at the discretion of Southwest Airlines®.

³Boarding group is based on the seat type and location in the cabin. The seats included in the fare bundle are based on availability. Our Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members will board in Groups 1 or 2, and our A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will board no later than Group 5.

⁴Where available. Available on WiFi-enabled designated aircraft.

Southwest Airlines aircraft photo library (current livery):

More airline news:

Hot New Photos:

This Day in Airline History – October 15 (click photo for details)

Southwest Airlines unveils a new “Louisiana One” on N8977G

Southwest Airlines has unveiled its newest state‑themed special livery, “Louisiana One,” which will be carried on a Boeing 737‑8 MAX 8, registration N8977G (MSN 42675, line number 8789). The aircraft has been painted in the striking colors of the Louisiana state flag, featuring the pelican emblem across the fuselage, while the tail retains Southwest’s modern Heart branding. Although the jet has been rolled out in full colors at Boeing Field, it has not yet been delivered to the airline and remains in the pre‑delivery stage.

This new Louisiana One replaces the earlier version of the livery that had been worn by 737‑7H4 N946WN. That aircraft carried the Louisiana tribute from its rollout in March 2018 until July 2025, when it was repainted back into Southwest’s standard Heart scheme. By transferring the special design to a new MAX 8, Southwest ensures that the Louisiana tribute continues on a more modern and efficient aircraft type.

With the addition of Louisiana One, Southwest continues its tradition of honoring key states in its network through commemorative aircraft. The livery highlights the airline’s long‑standing presence in New Orleans (MSY) and its deep ties to Louisiana, while joining the broader family of “State One” aircraft such as Texas One, California One, Nevada One, Colorado One, Missouri One, Arizona One, New Mexico One, Illinois One, Tennessee One, and Florida One.

First Look: American Airlines unveils special Flagship livery ahead of centennial year

With just six months to go until American Airlines officially celebrates its centennial, the airline is unveiling a special livery that will begin flying in November on a Boeing 777-300 registered as N735AT. This special Flagship^® livery blends one of the airline’s original liveries with a modern flair as American will upgrade the aircraft to feature a new, more luxurious interior.

“American has thoughtfully chosen a design that evokes our rich history while looking ahead to our next 100 years,” said Ron DeFeo, American’s Chief Communications Officer. “Throughout American’s history, ‘Flagship^®’ has always been recognized as our premium travel experience. Our renewed focus on the customer experience is making premium travel better than ever across all aspects of our customers’ travel journeys. Painting the original Flagship^® design on our Flagship^® aircraft is a powerful way to honor that legacy while embracing the future.”

American Airlines (Flagship Detroit Foundation) Douglas DC-3-178 NC17334 (msn 1920) “Flagship Detroit” MIA (Bruce Drum). Image: 100050.

Behind the design

At the base of the livery is the airline’s Silver Eagle^® paint color, which is currently found on more than 1,600 aircraft in American’s mainline and regional fleet. Across both sides of the aircraft, the iconic orange lightning bolt motif makes its bold reappearance after first debuting nearly 90 years ago on the Douglas DC-3. The DC-3 captivated passengers with American’s first foray into premium air travel experiences that the airline is now taking to new heights with its Boeing 777-300 aircraft flying to far-flung international destinations including Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom and beyond.

When American took delivery of new DC-3 aircraft, they were named based on cities the airline served at the time. In keeping with tradition, American will name this aircraft “Flagship DFW” as an homage to the airline’s home and largest hub.

Toward the rear of the aircraft, customers will notice a roundel featuring one of the most recognizable motifs from American’s history: the eagle connecting the world. American flies to more than 350 global destinations today and operates more flights carrying more customers than any other airline in the world — a reminder of how far the airline has come since its first flight in 1926.

The Flagship Knoxville housed in the American Airlines CR Smith Museum in Fort Worth, Texas.

Since American first took delivery of passenger aircraft in the 1930s, the airline has been known for offering an elevated “Flagship” experience first on board coast-to-coast transcontinental routes and today also includes the airline’s long-haul international network.

While customers recognize American’s premium Flagship^® lounges and Flagship^® Business class that have welcomed travelers for years, they will continue to enjoy the Flagship^® experience next year, when the airline begins refreshing the interior of its Boeing 777-300 fleet to include Flagship Suite^®seats.

American continues to focus on elevating the onboard customer experience to deliver a modern travel journey. After making their debut earlier this summer, the Flagship Suite^® seats, Premium Economy and upgraded Main Cabin products continue to earn rave reviews from customers and are part of the airline’s commitment to innovation. Highlights include:

The Flagship Suite^® seats are American’s first-ever onboard business class product featuring privacy doors, wireless charging pads and a one-of-a-kind chaise lounge seating option with an adjustable headrest pillow.
American is the first U.S. carrier to introduce wireless charging in Premium Economy, which includes the introduction of new headrest wings and new calf and footrests for enhanced comfort.
Main Cabin customers will experience the airline’s elevated international inflight experience, including 4K QLED screens — the first in the U.S. to be introduced in this cabin — and USB-C and AC power.

These upgraded amenities will also be featured on board refreshed 777-300s next year, featuring 70 Flagship Suite^® seats and 44 Premium Economy seats.

American’s Flagship Suite^® debuted on newly designed Boeing 787-9 aircraft this summer and will be on refreshed Boeing 777-300.

Be a part of American’s centennial

For more than 100 years, American has taken to the skies with timeless, iconic designs, and now, key moments from its rich history are available for purchase. The American Airlines Brand Store features a curated selection of historic advertising, vintage imagery and exclusive centennial-branded merchandise. Perfect for the holiday season, these keepsakes and gifts honor the legacy of aviation and design that has defined American for generations. Merchandise collections will continue to expand throughout the centennial year, offering even more ways to commemorate this milestone.

Video:

American Airlines slide show (historic liveries):

Air Lease to lease six Airbus aircraft to a new luxury airline coming in 2027

Air Lease has announced long-term lease agreements with Magnifica Air for six new Airbus aircraft, including four new A220-300s and two new A321-200neos. The aircraft are scheduled to deliver to the new startup airline in 2027.

About the new airline:

Magnifica Air defines a new era in luxury aviation. Creating a new category in aviation, Magnifica Air offers a hybrid solution between first-class and private jet travel, delivered with the consistency and scale of commercial.

The airline will launch in 2027 with a fleet of Airbus A220-300 and A321neo aircraft, completed in partnership with Comlux and delivered through Air Lease. Each aircraft will carry just 45-54 passengers, with 2–4 private suites on each.

World Airline News is powered by AirlinersGallery.com.

United Adds Flights to New Cities in Croatia, Italy, Scotland and Spain next Summer

Only airline with nonstops from Newark/New York to Split, Croatia; Glasgow, Scotland and Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Only U.S. airline with nonstops between Newark/New York and Bari, Italy; Seoul, South Korea, as well as new, daily flights from Washington-Dulles to Reykjavik, Iceland

Airline adds third additional service between Tel Aviv, Israel and Newark/New York – enhancing convenience for customers and reinforcing United’s position as the largest U.S. carrier to Israel

United remains the largest carrier across the Atlantic with service to 46 cities planned for next year including all six new Atlantic destinations from record Summer 2025 international expansion

Tickets for all these new flights are on sale today

CHICAGO, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — United Airlines today announced its Summer 2026 schedule with service to four new cities across Croatia, Italy, Scotland and Spain – leading the way with the most destinations across the Atlantic than any U.S. carrier.

United Adds Flights to New Cities in Croatia, Italy, Scotland and Spain next Summer

In Summer 2026, United will be the only U.S. airline to launch nonstop flights to four new destinations from its hub in Newark/New York to Split, Croatia; Bari, Italy; Glasgow, Scotland and Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The airline is also adding its first service between Washington-Dulles and Reykjavik, Iceland, as a new nonstop year-round daily service from Newark/New York to Seoul, South Korea, and four additional weekly flights, for 18 total weekly flights, between Newark/New York and Tel Aviv, Israel.

“United has an unmatched international network, and we pride ourselves on connecting our customers to unique, trendsetting destinations no other U.S. airline serves,” said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances. “With the addition of these new flights and the return of all of our new routes from last year, United now flies to 46 cities across the Atlantic – more than any other airline – and is the clear flag carrier of the U.S.”

As the leader in service from the U.S. to international destinations across the globe, United is continuing that momentum by offering nearly 3,000 weekly international roundtrips in Summer 2026. In addition to United’s new Summer 2026 destinations, United will continue to serve all nine destinations from its largest expansion ever last summer including seasonal service to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; Nuuk, Greenland; Palermo, Italy; Bilbao, Spain; Madeira Island, Portugal; Faro, Portugal; and continue year-round service from Dakar, Senegal; Puerto Escondido, Mexico, and Kaohsiung.

With United’s Summer 2026 schedule, the new and returning destinations offer a variety of landscapes and experiences for customers to choose from – whether they want to relax on a coastal beach, explore glacial landscapes, feed off the energy of vibrant cities or walk around historic towns, museums and architecture. Across the globe, United will offer more than 850 daily flights to and from over 150 international destinations – including 41 that no other U.S. airline serves – next year.

All new flights are subject to government approval and will be available for sale on United.com and on the United app today.

Split, Croatia

United will launch its new summer routes with the only nonstop service between Split and the United States beginning April 30. Split offers travelers the ability to explore historic sites like the ancient Roman Diocletian’s Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Dominus – one of the oldest in the world – while also mixing adventure from Split’s promenade and harbor. The palm-lined Riva promenade offers entertainment and restaurants with Mediterranean staples like fresh-caught fish, octopus, and risotto, while the harbor gives travelers the chance to explore, sail and even adventure to many Dalmatian Islands, like Hvar, for a day trip.

United will be the only airline to fly from the U.S. to Split and is currently the only airline offering direct flights to Croatia with its seasonal service from Newark/New York to Dubrovnik. Flights will operate three times a week on a Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.

Bari, Italy

United will be the only U.S airline offering nonstop service between Bari and the United States beginning May 1. The new flight will serve as a gateway to the Puglia region from Newark/New York, offering travelers the chance to explore the area’s beautiful hilltop towns, turquoise beaches of the Adriatic Sea, historic Old Town and the iconic Trulli buildings.

The new service to Bari will operate four times a week on a Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. With one of the largest ports on the Adriatic Sea, travelers can also connect from Bari by boat to Albania, Croatia, Greece and more.

United will offer up to 15 flights per day to Italy across six destinations next summer, with the only U.S. airline service to Palermo and Bari.

Glasgow, Scotland

United will be the only U.S. airline offering nonstop service between the United States and Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city known for its world-class museums, iconic architecture and historic pubs. Voted by Conde Nast Traveler as 2025’s Friendliest UK City, travelers can choose from strolling through over 90 parks and gardens, visiting one of a dozen museums like the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – one of the UK’s most visited, or enjoying one of the many music events the city hosts weekly as a recognized UNESCO City of Music member since 2008.

The daily seasonal service from Newark/New York will begin on May 8 and provide an easy nonstop connection on a Boeing 737-MAX8 aircraft for U.S. travelers who wish to explore the city, conduct business or reconnect with family and friends. United also serves Edinburgh year-round and is the largest carrier between the United States and Scotland.

Santiago de Compostela, Spain

With three times weekly seasonal service from Newark/New York starting May 22, United will be the only carrier to offer nonstop service between the U.S. and Santiago de Compostela – the capital of the Galicia region in Spain. Located near Spain’s northwest coast, the area has a rich history with stunning cathedrals, Medieval architecture and is the endpoint of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

This will be the first regularly scheduled service between the U.S. and Santiago de Compostela, making it more accessible than ever for American travelers to explore or visit loved ones. The flight will operate on a Boeing 737-MAX8 aircraft. With this new flight, United now flies to six destinations in Spain including Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca and Bilbao, and is the only airline to fly nonstop to Bilbao, Malaga and Palma de Mallorca from the U.S.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Beginning May 21, United will offer daily service between Reykjavik and Washington Dulles, building on the airline’s existing service from Chicago O’Hare and Newark/New York. The daily flight will operate on a Boeing 757-200, making United the only airline to offer lie-flat business class seats between the two capital cities, giving travelers more choices for comfort.

The new flight brings U.S. travelers more ways to connect to and see the destination’s natural beauty like the world-famous Blue Lagoon, Midnight Sun or Northern Lights, Icelandic landscapes, black sand beaches and more. Since 2019, United has now added flights to nine transatlantic destinations from Washington-Dulles, with Reykjavik joining this year’s most recent additions of year-round service to Dakar and seasonal service to Venice and Nice.

Seoul, South Korea

Next summer, United will be the only U.S. airline offering nonstop flights between Newark/New York and South Korea. With convenient options from both U.S. coasts to Seoul, travelers can experience thousands of cuisines at the vibrant Gwangjang Market, catch K-pop concerts and musical performances, try the most-talked about Korean beauty and wellness treatments, and so much more.

The daily flights from Newark/New York begin September 4 on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and build on United’s existing twice-daily flights from San Francisco.

Tel Aviv, Israel

On March 28, United will add a third flight to Tel Aviv from Newark/New York operating on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The four times weekly service builds on the existing double daily Newark-Tel Aviv, four times weekly Chicago O’Hare-Tel Aviv, and three times weekly Washington Dulles-Tel Aviv service the airline already offers – providing more travel options for customers and reinforcing United’s position as the largest U.S. carrier to Israel.

United has flown more flights to Tel Aviv this year than any other U.S. airline and will be the only airline operating flights between Tel Aviv and both Chicago and Washington D.C. when they begin in early November.

Destinations Return from Historic Expansion

After a successful summer, United is thrilled to be bringing back all nine destinations from its historic Summer 2025 expansion – the largest in the airline’s history. These routes will resume on:

Ulaanbaatar: April 30, 2026
Faro: May 15, 2026
Madeira Island: May 16, 2026 (three weeks earlier than in 2025)
Palermo: May 22, 2026
Bilbao: May 30, 2026
Nuuk: June 6, 2026 (one week earlier than in 2025)
Kaohsiung: Operating year-round service
Dakar: Operating year-round service
Puerto Escondido: Operating year-round service

As of August 2025, United set a new record for the most passengers it has carried to Italy, Spain and Portugal at nearly 1.5 million, 11% more than last year. The inaugural flight to Nuuk, Greenland was the fastest selling inaugural in United Airlines history.

A new generation: British Airways showcases the future of its lounges with brand-new openings in Miami and Dubai

British Airways has unveiled its bold new lounge design concept, with brand new openings in Miami International Airport and Dubai International Airport
The designs carefully blend the airline’s British style with the locality of each destination, with inspiration taken from the Art Deco features of Miami and fretwork patterning and architecture in the United Arab Emirates
Both lounges feature striking full-service bars as focal points, menus that champion local ingredients with a British twist, as well as the exclusive Concorde Dining Rooms
These openings are the latest part of the airline’s £7bn transformation programme, with significant recent investment in lounges, such as the refreshes in London Gatwick, Lagos, Singapore, Seattle, and Washington Dulles

British Airways is proudly celebrating the launch of its new lounge design concept with the opening of two new lounges on its global network, marking a significant step change in the airline’s premium offering.

Working in partnership with global architecture and design firm Gensler, these openings debut the flag carrier’s new design concept that will serve as the vision for future lounge developments.

Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, said: “We’re thrilled to be unveiling our new design concept with new lounges in both Miami and Dubai. These unique spaces have been created with our customers in mind and are the next step in our extensive lounge transformation plan. Whether they’re looking to relax, dine, work or enjoy a drink at the fully staffed bar, there’s something for everyone.

“We’re proud to bring our brand to life in these spaces, having blended our British originality with each destination’s unique character. This approach has allowed us to make the most of brilliant talents from around the world. We’re grateful to all the teams, both within British Airways and our partners, who’ve helped make our vision a reality. We are incredibly excited to welcome our customers to these new lounges.”

Rooted in hospitality, the new design concept establishes a cohesive architectural identity that connects British Airways lounges worldwide. Drawing inspiration from the airline’s heritage and the character of each destination, the spaces are designed to feel welcoming, intuitive, and restorative, creating moments of calm, connection, and delight for customers wherever their journey takes them.

Reflecting the airline’s playful side, ‘look-up’ moments feature across British Airways’ lounges, adding a touch of surprise to the experience. Upon arrival in Miami, for example, guests are greeted by a floor mural that, when viewed through the mirrored ceiling, reveals the words ‘London Calling’ as a homage to the airline’s home.

MIAMI

This is the first time in decades that the airline has had its own lounge available to customers in Miami. Opening today, it spans 13,000 sqft, becoming the largest lounge outside of London solely operated by British Airways.

Located in Terminal E, directly above its departure gate, the space is a celebration of the airline’s British originality, charm and wit, combined with features that have taken inspiration from the city, such as its Art Deco design and iconic buildings. With large windows along its walls, this lounge has sweeping views across the airfield and makes use of the beautiful Miami skies and light. The airline used Miami-based contractors, such as TGA Consulting, Nunez Construction and Bermello & Ajamil architects, as well as US-sourced materials that reflect both quality and craftmanship.

Drinks with a view

A striking full-service bar serves as the focal point of the lounge and is carefully positioned in front of windows that flood the space with light. Experienced bartenders are on hand to craft a selection of classic cocktails and mocktails, including a Prickly Margarita – unique to this lounge – as well as a large range of spirits and beers, including local ale.

In the zone

Designed with versatility in mind, the layout of the lounge offers five distinctive zones that flow seamlessly into each other while offering individual spaces. In addition to the central bar, it includes a main dining space, focus pods, and a lowered central lounge with partitions for those looking for a private space.

Two shower suites and colourful striped washrooms, inspired by traditional Miami deck chairs, provide travellers with a refreshing reset, complete with a reception and amenities.

Britain meets Miami in the kitchen

The lounge features a self-serve dining area offering locally-sourced dishes that champion seasonal Miami produce with a British twist, all freshly prepared in the new state-of-the-art restaurant-style kitchen. Customers can expect local papaya and lacinato kale salad with toasted coconut and citrus honey vinaigrette, and seared South Florida flounder fish with lemon, Kalamata olives, fried capers and rice.

Concorde Dining Room

Guests travelling in First are invited to enjoy an elevated à la carte dining experience in the exclusive Concorde Dining Room. Alongside a more personalised service, the experience includes a range of dishes such as Wagyu beef strip loin with roasted trumpet mushrooms and a truffle reduction or roasted diver scallops. Champagne and English Sparkling Wine, including Pommery, Cuvée Louise 2005, is also available for guests.

DUBAI

Located in Terminal 1 at Dubai International Airport and spanning nearly 5,800 sqft, the new space offers customers an elevated experience that blends contemporary British design and the rich spirit of the UAE.

Brought to life by local contractor Al Tayer Stocks, the new space nods to traditional Middle Eastern style, featuring sweeping arches, patterned metal panelling, and mirrored walls that have taken inspiration from local architecture. A full-service bar acts as a focal point of the space as part of the new design concept.

A blend of British and Middle Eastern design

Customers are welcomed by a framed entrance leading into a space that balances warm hospitality and exclusivity. Artisanal finishes such as fluted marble, antique mirrored ceilings, and bespoke detailing create an inviting and sophisticated space.

The lounge’s ‘look-up’ moment is a chandelier framed by a mirrored ceiling in the main dining area, with the iconic British Airways speedmarque embedded above. Lighting and mirrors are used throughout to reflect light, bringing a sense of openness to the space.

Washrooms feature locally sourced geometric tiles, while seating incorporates British heritage fabrics, adding character and comfort.

Focal bar and seating in British Airways' new Dubai lounge

Fusion of Middle Eastern flavours and British classics

The lounge has a dedicated self-serving dining area offering a range of options including an Arabic breakfast, mezze selection, cakes, and cheeseboard. Customers can indulge in a selection of premium Champagnes and English Sparkling wines, along with expertly crafted cocktails, such as a Dubai Chocolate Martini, and Bucks Free Fizz, made using fresh orange juice with Lyre’s Classico Grande Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine.

Coffee Planet, a UAE-founded coffee brand renowned for its premium Arabica beans, is available along with Birchall, the airline’s new global British tea partner.

Concorde Dining Room

Customers travelling in First can also enjoy top notch service in the exclusive Concorde Dining Room, accessible via a dedicated entrance. The à la carte menu features Middle Eastern signature dishes such as Arabic mezze and sweet dessert, Umm Ali, and British Original favourites including the famous Concorde Wagyu burger and Scottish smoked salmon. This exclusive area features a variety of seating, from table, to bar, to armchair.

Ashley Dowell, Design Director, Senior Associate at Gensler, said: “We are honoured to have partnered with British Airways to carve the path for the global lounge concept being introduced around the world. Hospitality driven and inspired by the heritage of British Airways, combined with the rich vibrancy of each location, the lounges will reflect a global journey framed through a British lens. Welcoming, intuitive and bold, the new lounges offer a surprising retreat for travellers to relax, work and socialise in the midst of their travels.”

Swiss International Air Lines takes delivery of its first Airbus A350-900

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), member of the Lufthansa Group, has taken delivery of its first of ten Airbus A350-900.

Supporting the airline’s fleet modernization program, the latest-generation widebody is set to become SWISS’s flagship aircraft.

The A350 will be operated on long-haul routes from its home base in Zurich to destinations like Boston, strengthening the airline’s global network.

The Airbus A350-900 is the first aircraft in the SWISS long-haul fleet to be equipped with the new SWISS Senses cabin. Designed to provide a more personal and comfortable air travel experience for passengers in all seating classes. The aircraft cabin is configured with a four-class layout, offering three suites up to four seats in First Class, 45 seats in Business, 38 in Premium Economy, and 156 in Economy.

Swiss International aircraft photo gallery:

More airline news:

Air Transat Announces Three New International Routes and Boosts Year-Round Service for Summer 2026 Program

MONTREAL, Oct. 8, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, named the 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, unveils a series of major additions to its summer 2026 network. Central to these new developments are exclusive transatlantic routes such as Quebec City–Marseille and Ottawa–London Gatwick, as well as the annualization of several southern routes from Montreal, Quebec City and Toronto.

These expansions are part of Air Transat’s strategy to develop its presence in Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean, while providing travellers with greater flexibility and an even wider range of options.

New for summer 2026 (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)

“Our summer 2026 is already shaping up to be exceptional,” said Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat. “We’re accelerating our growth in Quebec City, launching our first transatlantic route from Ottawa, and expanding our international connections. This is just the beginning of a season full of exciting new developments.”

New routes from Quebec City

From May 21 to October 8, 2026, Air Transat will operate a weekly non-stop service between Quebec City and Marseille on Thursdays. This new, exclusive route offers a unique gateway to the south of France and is a complement to the popularity of the existing Quebec City–Paris route. Additionally, the new Quebec City–Fort-de-France service, which is set to launch on December 14, 2025, will be extended over the summer to include a weekly Monday flight, providing year-round access to Martinique.

New routes from Ottawa

For the first time, Air Transat will offer non-stop transatlantic flights from Ottawa to London-Gatwick, starting on 15 May 2026. This service will operate three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Tuesdays. In addition, a new Ottawa–Montreal route will be available from May 5 to October 23, 2026, making it even easier for travellers from the Canadian capital to access the full Air Transat network. This development is driven by the growing network of Air Transat’s partner, Porter Airlines, which is consolidating Ottawa as a major hub in eastern Canada. Together, the two airlines are improving international access to the Canadian capital while providing travellers with a seamless and convenient connecting journey.

Year-round South routes from Montreal and Toronto

Beginning summer 2026, Air Transat will convert several popular seasonal routes to year-round:

Routes	Number of flights	Operating days
Montreal (YUL) – Cartagena (CTG) – *Medellín* (MDE)*	1 flight/week	Thursdays
Montreal (YUL) – Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP)	2 flights/week	Tuesdays and Saturdays
Montreal (YUL) – San José (SJO)	2 flights/week	Mondays and Fridays
Toronto (YYZ) – Cartagena (CTG) – Medellín (MDE)	1 flight/week	Wednesdays

*New route

Notably, the Montreal–Cartagena (YUL–CTG) route will now operate year-round and be extended to Medellín (MDE). This service is based on the model of the future Toronto–Cartagena–Medellín route, which is set to launch on November 2 and will also operate year-round. Together, these routes offer travellers the chance to enjoy both the sunny beaches of the Caribbean coast as well as the cultural and urban vibrancy of Medellín.

The mentioned flights are now available for booking. Further developments will be announced in the coming weeks as part of the 2026 summer program rollout.