BermudAir Doubles Charleston Service For Peak Summer

ย BermudAir lands at Charleston International Airport

BermudAir is updating its Charleston, South Carolina route with non-stop service to Charleston International Airport for the late summer season, expanding from a once-weekly Saturday flight to a more convenient twice-weekly service on Thursdays and Sundays, effective August 7, 2025. The final Saturday flight will operate on August 2, 2025, with the revised schedule running through October. This seasonal adjustment provides greater choice and flexibility for both Bermudians and visitors travelling between Bermuda and the U.S. Southeast.

The service flight times will operate as follows:
โ€ข BDA to CHS: 3:15 PM โ€“ 4:45 PM
โ€ข CHS to BDA: 5:45 PM โ€“ 8:55 PM

The route update coincides with the expansion of BermudAir Holidays, which now offers curated travel packages for both inbound and outbound travellers. This means Bermuda residents can now book ideal getaways to any destination, including Charleston through BermudAir Holidays, benefitting from bundled rates on accommodations and experiences in this historic, charming, and coastal city.

โ€œWeโ€™re always listening to our customers and evolving our offerings to suit their needs,โ€ said Adam Scott, Founder & CEO of BermudAir. โ€œWith added frequency on this route and new vacation packages available in both directions, travellers now have even more ways to enjoy the best of Bermuda and the Carolinas.โ€

โ€œThe addition of a second nonstop BermudAir flight between Charleston and Bermuda marks a significant enhancement in air service for both destinations,โ€ said Elliott Summey, President and CEO of Charleston International Airport. โ€œThis expansion not only offers increased opportunities for Charlestonians to enjoy the renowned beauty of Bermudaโ€™s pink sand beaches but also allows more Bermudians to experience the rich history, culture, and hospitality of the Holy City. This expanded service is more than just added convenienceโ€”itโ€™s an economic win that strengthens tourism, business, and the growing bond between our two vibrant destinations.”

BermudAir is also proud to be working collaboratively with tourism partners in Charleston to develop attractive packages for Bermudians seeking a southern coastal escape. This enhanced partnership reflects a shared commitment to providing a welcoming and enjoyable experience for travellers, regardless of their final destination.

โ€œThe expansion of service to twice weekly is notable in multiple ways. It indicates the early success of this new flight and airline in our market, reinforces the desirability of the two destinations, demonstrates continued growth in our BermudAir partnership, and creates more opportunities for Charleston area residents and visitors alike to take advantage of this international route,โ€ said Helen Hill, President and CEO of Explore Charleston and Chair of the Charleston Regional Aviation Authority.

To launch the expanded service, BermudAir is offering up to 25% off Thursday flights in August with promo code CHS25. Travellers can also inquire about exclusive Stay & Play access at Kiawah Island, including preferred golf and accommodation options, available on request by contacting holidays@flybermudair.com.

For more details or to book, visit flybermudair.com or for travellers seeking a personalised experience, including flight bookings, accommodations, and activities, visit www.bermudairholidays.com.

UNITED AIRLINES EXPANDS NONSTOP SERVICE TO DOMINICA, OFFERING MORE OPTIONS FOR WINTER GETAWAYS TO THE NATURE ISLAND

New Wednesday flight from New York/Newark launches October 29, just in time for travelers to enjoy Dominicaโ€™s winter campaign

United Airlines Airbus A321-271NX WL N24516 (msn 12068) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 964965.
United Airlines Airbus A321-271NX WL N24516 (msn 12068) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 964965.

ROSEAU, Dominica โ€“ July 8, 2025 โ€“ Today, the Discover Dominica Authority announced that United Airlines will expand its nonstop service from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Dominicaโ€™s Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM), with a second weekly flight launching October 29, 2025. The new Wednesday service complements the existing Saturday flight and offers travelers increased flexibility to book three-, four- or seven-night escapes to Dominica for the upcoming winter travel season.

“The addition of a second non-stop flight from New York to Dominica opens the door for even more travelers to experience the natural beauty, adventure, and warm hospitality that defines our island,โ€ said Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Dominicaโ€™s Minister of Tourism. โ€œThe tri-state area has long been one of our most important U.S. markets, and weโ€™re excited to make it even easier for visitors from this region to discover all that Dominica has to offer.”

Following the successful launch of United Airlinesโ€™ inaugural non-stop service in February, demand for travel to Dominica has soared, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination in the Caribbean. The expanded service comes as Dominica experiences a wave of growth, investment and innovation. In December, the island will debut the worldโ€™s longest detachable cable car, spanning more than four miles and connecting the Roseau Valley to the iconic Boiling Lake in just 20 minutes โ€“ transforming a six-hour hike into an accessible rainforest experience. Additionally, multiple new hotels and resorts are slated to open through 2026, significantly increasing the islandโ€™s hotel offerings and further enhancing the visitor experience.

The launch of this new flight comes just in time for Dominicaโ€™s winter travel season, supporting the destinationโ€™s upcoming winter campaign, which will feature special offers and curated experiences for travelers escaping the cold. More details about the campaign will be shared soon

Boeing Announces Second Quarter Deliveries

Boeing 737 MAX 9
Boeing 737-9 MAX 9 SSWL N7379E (msn 42987) BFI (James Helbock). Image: 939073.

ARLINGTON, Va., July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today major program deliveries across its commercial and defense operations for the second quarter of 2025.

The company will provide detailed second quarter financial results on July 29. Major program deliveries during the second quarter were as follows:

 Major Programs2nd Quarter
2025
Year-to-Date
2025
Commercial Airplanes Programs
737104209
767914
7771320
7872437
Total150280
Defense, Space & Security Programs
AH-64 Apache (New)26
AH-64 Apache (Remanufactured)1021
CH-47 Chinook (New)โ€”1
CH-47 Chinook (Renewed)57
F-15 Models34
F/A-18 Models49
KC-46 Tanker55
MH-139 45
P-8 Models12
Commercial and Civil Satellites22
Total13662
1 Deliveries of new-build production units, including remanufactures and modifications
Note: Delivery information is not considered final until quarterly financial results are issued

Star Alliance – Worldโ€™s Best Airline Alliance at 2025 Skytrax Awards

– Star Alliance Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Lounge also honoured as the Worldโ€™s Best Airline Alliance Lounge for the second year running

– 14 Star Alliance member airlines claim a total of 62 top awards

The original 1998 Star Alliance livery
ANA (All Nippon Airways) Boeing 767-381 JA8290 (msn 24417) (Star Alliance) HND (Christian Volpati). Image: 965276.

SINGAPORE – JULY 8, 2025 – On June 17, 2025, Star Alliance was once again voted the Worldโ€™s Best Airline Alliance for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, taking its total tally of the title to 13 times out of 18 when the category was first introduced in 2005.

The Star Alliance Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Lounge also retained its title as the Worldโ€™s Best Airline Alliance Lounge โ€“ marking a second consecutive win since its inauguration in October 2023.
 

Marking the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said: โ€œThis continued recognition is incredibly significant to all of us at Star Alliance. It reflects the trust millions of customers place in our member airlines, connected by a rhythm, to create smoother journeys every day.โ€

Mr Panagiotoulias also congratulated the member airline employees across the network and continued: โ€œThis achievement reflects the shared commitment to excellence shown by every employee at Star Alliance and across our member airlines throughout a promising 2024. I proudly accept this honour on their behalf and encourage them to keep aiming higher in the year ahead and beyond.โ€

The awards were presented at the Paris Air Show, held at the historic Le Bourget Airport. In addition to the two Alliance awards, 14 member airlines were also recognised with a total of 62 top honours in individual categories.

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: โ€œWe are pleased to recognise Star Alliance as the World’s Best Airline Alliance, and for having the Best Airline Alliance Lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle. These awards speak to the allianceโ€™s continued efforts to create a joined-up experience that appeals to todayโ€™s international passenger, both in the air and on the ground.โ€

Known as the โ€œOscars of the aviation industry,โ€ the Skytrax World Airline Awards are based on millions of customer surveys from travellers around the world. This yearโ€™s results reflect over 22 million eligible entries gathered between September 2024 and May 2025.

China Airlines and The New Terminal One Announce Strategic Partnership, Transforming Customer Experience in New York City

TAIPEI,Taiwan and NEW YORK, July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — China Airlines (CAL), a Taiwan-based carrier, will begin operations at The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport in 2026, launching an elevated travel experience for its valued customers. The long-term partnership between China Airlines and the New Terminal One will support the carrier’s ambition to expand its network in North America, transforming the customer experience at one of the airline’s top international gateways.

China Airlines President Kevin Chen (left) and The New Terminal One at JFK CEO Jennifer Aument (right) at the signing ceremony to announce China Airlines as a new partner airline of the New Terminal One.
China Airlines President Kevin Chen (left) and The New Terminal One at JFK CEO Jennifer Aument (right) at the signing ceremony to announce China Airlines as a new partner airline of the New Terminal One.

The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernization and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.

China Airlines currently operates four weekly flights from JFK to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport on Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. In 2026, the airline will move its operations to the New Terminal One, ushering in an enhanced travel experience in New York, home to one of the largest Taiwanese communities abroad.

“We are honored to partner with China Airlines as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their New York operations. With a shared commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences, we look forward to a long-term partnership with China Airlines as they grow their presence in North America,” said Jennifer Aument, CEO, The New Terminal One at JFK.

“With such a promising future of The New Terminal One at JFK, China Airlines also hopes for an efficient construction of the facilities. We look forward to utilizing the latest technology to promote China Airlines and share the excitement of Taiwan with our customers,” said Kevin Chen, President of China Airlines.

China Airlines customers can look forward to a seamless journey when flying out of the New Terminal One. Offering the latest technology, world-class retail and dining, and exceptional guest service, the New Terminal One will provide an unmatched travel experience for China Airlines passengers in the iconic city of New York.

With a strong commitment to enhance its customer experience, China Airlines has invested significantly in its fleet, network and inflight service.

China Airlines operates nonstop flights to six North American destinations, offering more than 40 return flights from its hub in Taiwan Taoyuan. With nearly 500 weekly flights, China Airlines ensures strong connectivity for transfer passengers traveling between Asia and North America. In addition to passenger services, China Airlines also operates a strong cargo network, serving 12 destinations across North America.

As a member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance, China Airlines joins four fellow SkyTeam carriers โ€“ Air France, KLM, Korean Air and SAS โ€“ in selecting the New Terminal One as their new home. The other carriers that form the growing community of leading airlines that will operate at the New Terminal One include Etihad, LOT Polish Airlines, EVA Air, Air Serbia, Neos, Philippine Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air New Zealand, Royal Air Maroc and Air China.

About The New Terminal One

The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport is a bold and exciting project to develop a best-in-class international terminal that will serve as an anchor terminal in the Port Authority’s $19 billion transformation of JFK into a global gateway to the New York metropolitan area and the United States. The New Terminal One will set a new standard for design and service, aspiring to obtain a Top 5 Skytrax ranking.

The New Terminal One is being built on sites now occupied by Terminal 1 and the former Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, where it will anchor JFK’s south side. Construction is taking place in phases with full completion in 2030. The first phase, including the new arrivals and departures halls and first set of 14 new gates, is expected to open in 2026. At completion in 2030, the New Terminal One, with a total of 23 gates, will be 2.6 million square feet, making it the largest terminal at JFK and nearly the same size as LaGuardia Airport’s two new terminals combined.

The New Terminal One consortium of labor, operating, and financial partners is led by Ferrovial, JLC Infrastructure, Ullico, and Carlyle. The New Terminal One is being built by union labor and is committed to local inclusion and labor participation, focusing on diversity and capacity-building opportunities, including a commitment to target participation goals of 20% for minority-owned business enterprises, 10% for women-owned business enterprises, 10% for local business enterprises and 3% for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.

EVA AIR LAUNCHES NEW FOURTH-GENERATION PREMIUM ECONOMY CLASS IN THE UNITED STATES

The upgraded cabin debuts on October 3rdย on the new Taipei-Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) route

Photo Credit: EVA Air 

DALLAS, U.S. (July 07, 2025) โ€“ EVA Air, the worldโ€™s first airline to introduce Premium Economy Class in 1992, is set to debut its all-new fourth-generation Premium Economy in the United States this fall. Launching on October 3rd, the redesigned cabin will make its U.S. premiere on the inaugural flight of EVA Airโ€™s new Taipeiโ€“Dallas Fort Worth route, offering American travelers their first opportunity to experience the airlineโ€™s most advanced Premium Economy product to dateโ€”designed with enhanced comfort, upgraded technology, and thoughtful, sustainable features.

The new Dallas-Fort Worth route, announced earlier this year, expands EVA Airโ€™s growing U.S. network and marks a significant milestone as the airline becomes the first Asian carrier to serve two cities in Texas.  The route will commence with three weekly flights using the fuel-efficient Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in a three-class configuration. Frequency will increase to five flights per week starting November 18, with daily service launching on December 15.

โ€œWeโ€™re thrilled to introduce our fourth-generation Premium Economy to the U.S. market, starting with our new Dallas-Fort Worth service,โ€ said Andrew Su, Executive Vice President of EVA Air North America. โ€œThis product evolution reflects our commitment to providing passengers with greater comfort and convenience, while addressing growing demand for a more spacious and refined long-haul travel experience. Dallas-Fort Worth is a vibrant hub with strong business and cultural ties to Asia, making it a fitting location to debut this upgraded offering.โ€

EVA Airโ€™s new Premium Economy cabin, first revealed earlier this year, represents a significant leap forward in the airlineโ€™s cabin innovation. The redesigned section features 28 seats in a 2-3-2 layout, with an industry-leading seat pitch of 42 inches, a cradle-style recline that maximizes personal space, and premium leather finishes for added luxury. Passengers will also enjoy a 15.6-inch HD touchscreen, adjustable tray tables designed for digital devices, individual power outlets, ample storage, and privacy panels designed to enhance both comfort and functionality during long-haul flights. Improved accessibility features have also been integrated to support a broader range of passenger needs.

Beyond seating, EVA Air has elevated the Premium Economy experience with thoughtfully curated amenities and a strong focus on sustainability. Passengers will enjoy plush pillows, eco-friendly double-sided blankets, high-quality headphones, and stylish in-flight tableware crafted in partnership with renowned Italian brand Guzzini. Bamboo fiber napkins and other sustainable service items reflect the airlineโ€™s environmental commitment, while Royal Laurel Class toiletries, deep gray velvet slippers, and gourmet snacks like mixed nuts and dried fruits add a refined touch at 30,000 feet.

This dedication to quality and innovation has earned EVA Air SKYTRAXโ€™s prestigious Five-Star Airline certification for the tenth consecutive year. The airline also received 11 SKYTRAX awards, including top honors for โ€œBest Economy Class Cateringโ€ and โ€œWorldโ€™s Cleanest Airline,โ€ further affirming its dedication to quality, comfort, and service at every cabin level.

This U.S. debut highlights EVA Airโ€™s longstanding leadership in the Premium Economy category, which it introduced to the industry over 30 years ago. The rollout of the fourth-generation cabin marks a key step in the airlineโ€™s broader initiative to refresh its long-haul offerings and adapt to the changing needs of modern travelers. By blending innovation, sustainability, and award-winning service, EVA Air is redefining the trans-Pacific travel experienceโ€”delivering a product that harmonizes comfort, practicality, and environmental responsibility.

WestJet announces expanded winter schedule with more sun destinations than ever before

Increased service toย Latin America, theย Caribbeanย andย Asiaย complements added capacity for key Canadian cities

CALGARY, AB, July 7, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet revealed its 2025/2026 winter schedule, featuring five new destinations. While departures will increase by three per cent year-over-year, capacity will be consistent with last winter, as seats will be removed from former Sunwing/Swoop aircraft, which will be updated to WestJet’s standard configuration before the start of winter.

Skyline of Panama City (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)
Skyline of Panama City (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

This winter, WestJet will operate 305 total routes and serve 62 Latin American, Caribbean, and US sun destinations, delivering more affordable opportunities for Canadians to escape the cold and enjoy sun-filled getaways. With both flight-only options through WestJet, and vacation packages through Sunwing Vacations Group, WestJet leads sun travel from Canada.

“Canadians want value while escaping the cold, and WestJet’s 2025/2026 winter schedule delivers on both affordability and choice,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “By expanding our sun network, strengthening key routes and growing strategically across Canada and internationally, WestJet is coming through for Canadians by connecting them to the destinations they love at prices they can afford. In fact, 71 per cent of WestJet’s non-stop services are currently priced lower than they were in 2024.”

New destinations and routes

The schedule adds new destinations Panama City, Panama; Guadalajara, Mexico; Tepic (Nayarit), Mexico; Havana, Cuba; and Managua, Nicaragua. The schedule also marks Mexico City’s first winter season of operation since becoming a year-round service.

Seat capacity across the Latin America and Caribbean region is scheduled to grow by six per cent, with popular vacation hotspots like Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and Mexico in focus for new route growth.

New destinationsPeak frequencyStart dateEnd date
Calgary โ€“ Panama City4x weeklyDecember 13, 2025April 25, 2026
Calgary โ€“ Guadalajara2x weeklyDecember 7, 2025April 12, 2026
Calgary โ€“ Tepic (Nayarit)1x weeklyDecember 13, 2025April 25, 2026
Montrรฉal โ€“ Managua1x weeklyDecember 18, 2025April 2, 2026
Toronto โ€“ Havana2x weeklyDecember 18, 2025April 23, 2026
New routesPeak frequencyStart dateEnd date
Calgary โ€“ Cozumel1x weeklyDecember 20, 2025April 11, 2026
Calgary โ€“ Puerto Plata1x weeklyDecember 14, 2025April 12, 2026
Vancouver โ€“ Liberia1x weeklyDecember 12, 2025April 24, 2026
Montrรฉal โ€“ Samanรก2x weeklyDecember 11, 2025April 12, 2026
Quรฉbec City โ€“ Montego Bay1x weeklyDecember 6, 2025April 11, 2026
Thunder Bay โ€“ Punta Cana1x weeklyDecember 16, 2025April 7, 2026
Winnipeg โ€“ Liberia1x weeklyDecember 19, 2025April 25, 2026

Returning routes for Winter 2025/26

Samanรก, Dominican Republic, previously offered only through Sunwing Airlines, will now be offered by WestJet, connecting guests to one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing eco-tourism regions, known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. WestJet also returns service to four additional routes, while restarting seasonal service to dozens of Canada’s favourite winter destinations.

RoutePeak frequencyStart dateEnd date
Calgary โ€“ Mexico City4x weeklyYear-round service extension
Edmonton โ€“ Montego Bay1x weeklyNovember 2, 2025April 12, 2026
Quรฉbec City โ€“ San Andrรฉs1x weeklyDecember 8, 2025April 6, 2026
Toronto โ€“ Samanรก1x weeklyDecember 11, 2025April 23, 2026

Strengthening Asia connectivity

In addition to sun expansion, WestJet is continuing its growth in international markets. Service between the airline’s global hub in Calgary and Tokyo (Narita) will increase from three to seven flights per week, enabling daily connectivity to Asia and contributing to 18 per cent year-over-year in intercontinental growth.

“We’re prioritizing flexibility, optionality and value to meet Canadians’ demand to visit warm weather destinations. With a peak of over 4,300 weekly departures to 106 destinations planned this winter, there’s something for everyone!” added Weatherill.

WestJet’s full winter 2025/26 schedule is available for booking from July 14, 2025.

Additional quotes

Panama City (PTY) โ€“ Gloria De Leรณn Zubieta, Minister of Tourism of Panama.

“We are pleased to welcome WestJet’s upcoming service between Calgary and Panama City, which represents more than a new route, it is an opportunity for Panama to further connect with a high value market like Canada and continue positioning itself as a strategic hub in the region. This connection supports our national goal of attracting more international visitors, and showcasing Panama as a destination that bridges continents, cultures, and opportunities,” stated Gloria De Leรณn Zubieta, Minister of Tourism of Panama.

Tepic/Nayarit (TPQ) โ€“ Javier Garcรญa Bejos, CEO of AME (Aeropuertos Mexicanos)

“This new direct service from Calgary represents much more than just an air connection: This is the result of years of work in conjunction with WestJet, a strategic airline in the Canadian market and a key player in the international expansion of the Riviera Nayarit. Thanks to the new Riviera Nayarit International Airport and historic levels of investment in the regional infrastructure, we can now offer a modern, efficient gateway that is perfectly connected to Mexico’s top destinations such as Sayulita, Tequila, Punta Mita, and San Blas, with travel times shorter than ever before.

The region is undergoing an unprecedented transformation: tourism is growing, investment is flowing, and we are laying the foundations for sustainable, inclusive, and high-value development in Nayarit.”

Tepic/Nayarit (TPQ) โ€“ Miguel รngel Navarro Quintero, Governor of Nayarit

“We are pleased to announce the launch of a new direct route between Calgary and the Tepicโ€“Riviera Nayarit International Airport, operated by WestJet. This historic flight marks the first direct connection between Canada and the state of Nayarit, representing a major milestone in the expansion of international tourism to the region. This new route makes it easier for Canadian travelers to explore the rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and sunny beaches of the Riviera Nayarit and the entire state. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience the warmth, beauty, and vibrant traditions that make Nayarit a truly unique destination.”

Guadalajara (GDL) โ€“ Raรบl Revuelta Musalem, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacรญfico

“The launch of this new route to Calgary, operated by a renowned airline like WestJet, not only expands travel options but also drives an increase in tourist arrivals to the state of Jalisco. In line with our expansion plans, we continue to create optimal conditions for Guadalajara Airport to position itself as a strategic hub for operations targeting the Canadian market,” said Raรบl Revuelta Musalem, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacรญfico.

Havana (HAV) โ€“ Cuban Aviation Corporation

“The Cuban Aviation Corporation enthusiastically welcomes the announcement of WestJet’s operations to Havana this winter. This new service represents a significant step in strengthening ties between Canada and Cuba, and will facilitate the access of more Canadian visitors to the Cuban capital, contributing to the recovery and revitalization of the national tourism sector.

We warmly welcome WestJet and wish it every success in this new era, convinced that its presence will contribute to the sustainable growth of tourism and aviation in Cuba.”

WestJet Cargo โ€“ Amanda Ierfino, Vice-President of Sales & Cargo, WestJet

“WestJet’s 2025/2026 winter schedule marks a pivotal moment for our growing belly cargo operations,” said Amanda Ierfino, WestJet Vice-President, Sales and Cargo. ” With expanded capacity and increasing momentum, we expect strong cargo demand across new routes to Guadalajara, Managua, Samanรก and Havana. The launch of daily service to Tokyo is particularly exciting, as it presents robust two-way trade potential in high-value sectors such as electronics, automotive components, machinery and premium perishables like seafood and fresh fruit.”

About WestJet

WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.

As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.โ€ฏ

Etihad Guest Raises The Extraordinary Challenge Prize Pot to over 20 Million Miles Due to Overwhelming Demand

25K Etihad Guest Miles to the first 100 people to visit 5 of Etihadโ€™s new destinations.
100K Etihad Guest Miles to the first 100 people to visit 10 of Etihadโ€™s new destinations.
On track to have over 50k members sign-ups to compete in The Extraordinary Challenge. First to visit the 15 new destinations wins 5 million Etihad Guest Miles, Second place wins 3 million miles, and Third place wins 1 million miles.
Abu Dhabi, UAE โ€“ Etihad Guest has announced 12.5 million additional miles up for grabs in the second phase of The Extraordinary Challenge, bringing the grand total prize pot to over 20 million Etihad Guest Miles for over 200 potential winners.

Last month, Etihadโ€™s loyalty programme, Etihad Guest, launched the competition with five million Etihad Guest Miles to the first person to visit 15 of the airlineโ€™s new destinations. Second place will be awarded three million miles, and Third place will receive one million miles.

Due to overwhelming demand and incredible enthusiasm from participants, Etihad is expanding The Extraordinary Challenge, giving even more members the chance to win big and take home a share of over 20 million miles. With the addition of the new prize category, โ€˜The Extraordinary Milestonesโ€™, Etihad is rewarding the first 100 people to visit five new destinations with 25,000 Etihad Guest Miles, and 100,000 mile to the first 100 people to visit 10 new cities. Members can earn miles as they reach each milestone and compete for multiple prizes, with the First place prize potentially growing to 5,125,000 Etihad Guest Miles.

Mark Potter, Managing Director Etihad Guest at Etihad Airways, said, โ€œWeโ€™ve seen an amazing response across the globe since we launched The Extraordinary Challenge, and expect to see over 50K member sign-ups as more destinations come online. Having seen the desire and determination of so many, we wanted to reward Etihad Guest members even more by giving flight to their ambition with more prize miles and potential for 200 additional winners.โ€

Etihad Guest miles can be redeemed on flights, holidays and a huge range of items from the Etihad Guest Reward Shop, turning miles into unforgettable rewards and experiences. The First place five million miles prize could be redeemed on approximately 40 First class experiences, 70 Business class journeys or over 500 Economy trips, and so much more. In addition to the prize miles, competitors will be earning miles on each Etihad flight they take.

Eligible new destinations include: Addis Ababa, Algiers, Atlanta, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Krabi, Medan, Peshawar, Phnom Penh, Prague, Sochi, Taipei, Tunis and Warsaw.

Creating a community of likeminded passionate dreamers in a race to win the prize of a lifetime, a live dashboard will illustrate to members their position in each category of the race against anonymous competitors. Members will also collect a digital passport stamp for each destination visited โ€“ this digital dashboard can be exported and shared on social media for competitors to showcase their progress.

The challenge will run until 25 May 2026 and is open to both new and existing Etihad Guest members, offering everyone a chance to win. Members can register at etihad.com/extraordinary to enter, track their progress and be eligible to win. Members are encouraged to use the hashtag #EYextraordinarymiles when sharing their journey to the finish line on social media channels.

The winners for First, Second and Third place of The Extraordinary Challenge will be determined based on the scheduled time of departure for their final qualifying flight in GMT. In the event of two or more participants completing the challenge and reaching Etihadโ€™s 15th new destination on the same day, the rankings will be determined based on which participant made their booking the earliest for the last flight, failing which the 14th qualifying flight of the challenge, and so on, until a tie-break is established.

Blackstone Real Estate to Acquire Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor from Allegiant Travel Company for $200 Million

NEW YORK and LAS VEGAS, July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Blackstone (NYSE: BX) and Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ: ALGT) today announced that funds affiliated with Blackstone Real Estate have agreed to acquire Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor from Allegiant for $200 million.

With 785 rooms spanning 22 waterfront acres on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor is a brand-new resort with extensive core amenities, including multiple food and beverage concepts, two pools, a spa, a fitness center, a rooftop adult pool and bar, a championship golf course and more than 60,000 square feet of combined indoor meeting space.

Scott Trebilco, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone Real Estate, said: “The acquisition of this brand new, highly-amenitized resort demonstrates our strong conviction in hospitality and travel and the continued growth in group-oriented destinations. Allegiant has built a fantastic property and we look forward to bringing our extensive experience with large scale resorts to Sunseeker.”

“Blackstone’s extensive hospitality holdings and their execution capabilities make them the ideal counterparty for this transaction and also to help realize the full potential of Sunseeker Resort,” said Gregory C. Anderson, CEO at Allegiant Travel Company. “Furthermore, it supports Allegiant’s strategy centered around the airline and we plan to use the proceeds from the sale to repay debt and strengthen our balance sheet.”

Barclays served as financial advisor to Allegiant on this transaction.

The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to satisfying customary conditions.

Malaysia Aviation Group orders 20 more Airbus A330neo widebodies

Toulouse, France, 5 July 2025 – Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of national carrier Malaysia Airlines, has placed a firm order with Airbus for 20 more A330-900 aircraft. This new order will double Malaysia Airlinesโ€™ future A330neo fleet to 40 aircraft.

The announcement was made during the official visit to France of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, H.E. Anwar Ibrahim.

MAG first selected the A330neo in 2022 under its widebody fleet renewal programme, with a commitment for 20 aircraft, of which four have now been delivered. Featuring an all-new premium cabin layout, the aircraft are already operating on services from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne, Auckland and Bali.

โ€œThe A330neo continues to deliver the right balance of operational efficiency, range, and cabin comfort to support our network and growth strategy,โ€ said Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG. โ€œWith its enhanced fuel efficiency and flexibility across both regional and long-haul routes, the aircraft is a strong fit for our evolving market needs. It also allows us to offer a product that aligns with our premium positioning โ€“ streamlined, modern, and designed around passenger comfort and expectations. This additional order reinforces our long-term vision of building a future-ready fleet that supports sustainable growth, delivers consistent value to our passengers, and strengthens our competitiveness in key markets.โ€

โ€œWe are proud to further strengthen our relationship with Malaysia Aviation Group as it expands its A330neo fleet,โ€ said Benoรฎt de Saint-Exupรฉry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. โ€œThis repeat order is a strong endorsement of the A330neoโ€™s exceptional performance, fuel efficiency, versatility and passenger comfort, as well as a testament to the aircraftโ€™s popularity among the worldโ€™s premium airlines.โ€

Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200 nm / 13,300 km non-stop. The A330neo features the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers passengers a unique experience, high level of comfort, ambience, and design. This includes more individual space, enlarged overhead bins, a new lighting system and access to the latest in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems.

At the end of May 2025, the A330 Family had won over 1,800 firm orders from more than 130 customers worldwide. As with all in-production Airbus aircraft, the A330neo is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a target to increase to up to 100% SAF capability by 2030.