Per Emirates:

Emirates has launched an inspiring journey to officially become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, inviting customers with autism and sensory sensitivities to experience Emirates’ seamless services and personalised hospitality, making travel more accessible for all. The inaugural designation is set to be formally awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) in the coming months, when more than 30,000 Emirates cabin crew and ground staff will have completed the initial training. Emirates also plans to roll out new standards and services that will improve the on ground and inflight travel experience for both customers on the autism spectrum and their families and companions, to be announced later in the year.

Accessible Travel for all

For many members of the global autism community, international air travel is a highly challenging experience, or something to be avoided completely, due to the high level of sensory stimuli that can be involved. A survey on AutismTravel.com revealed that 78% of families are hesitant to travel or visit new locations, and that 94% of respondents would take more vacations if they had access to places where staff are autism-trained and certified. As part of Emirates’ mission to make travel more inclusive and accessible for all, this significant step also supports Dubai’s ambition to become the most accessible destination in the world.

What is the Autism Certified Airline™ designation (ACA)?

Driven by its commitment to creating a welcoming travel experience for all customers including individuals with autism and those with sensory sensitivities, Emirates worked collaboratively with IBCCES, a leading organization in autism and neurodiversity training and certification, to conduct an onsite review and comprehensive audit.

As part of a vast research endeavour, IBCCES surveyed more than 14,000 people with a variety of disabilities, including people with autism, those with sensory sensitivities and their families and caregivers. The survey data was collated alongside numerous interviews, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) industry survey, and feedback from 1,200 industry professionals – helping develop the most beneficial standards for both passengers and airline staff. In addition to the feedback collated, IBCCES experts also conducted several Emirates flight audits on both long and short haul routes.

The collation of detailed data ensured input from key stakeholders including the lived experiences of people with autism, global thought leaders, industry professionals and healthcare experts – combined to create new industry standards that accommodate passengers with autism and sensory sensitivities during air travel. Using a data-driven approach, Emirates and IBCCES partnered to create a new blueprint for serving passengers with accessibility requirements, encompassing the entire journey – from ground services to in-flight services, and Emirates will lead the way in bringing these new standards into practice in aviation for the first time. The thorough certification process includes ensuring at least 80% of customer-facing staff complete the dedicated training, alongside a commitment to ongoing training and improvements.

Emirates’ autism and sensory-awareness training for more than 30,000 staff

As part of the designation, Emirates’ ground staff and cabin crew will undertake a new, focused training on autism and sensory awareness to equip them with the understanding and skills to address needs of travellers with autism and sensory sensitivities, along with their families. The training educates Emirates’ teams on the spectrum of autism, misconceptions and challenges faced, the myriad ways to assist customers dependent on their individual needs, and potential stimulus and triggers that staff should be aware of. The new training builds on the foundations established by the Emirates ‘Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities’ training, which was completed by 23,000 staff in 2023. 

Emirates’ new standards and services for customers with autism

Throughout 2025 and beyond, Emirates will be introducing new standards and services for customers with autism and sensory conditions that will ensure more enjoyable and accessible travel. One such service is the introduction of ‘sensory guides’ – digital aids developed as part of the audit conducted by IBCCES in collaboration with Emirates that empower travellers to make informed decisions about the various environments encountered, and plan what suits their needs and preferences. The guides were created by conducting comprehensive facilities audits across Dubai locations and the inflight experience, measuring sensory inputs in public areas such as sound levels, lighting, and potential sights and smells. Another development expected in 2025 will be the introduction of neurodiverse sensory products, for customers on Emirates flights – sensory fidget toys or aids that can encourage focus, help to reduce self stimulatory behaviour and de-stress.

Working together for Accessible Travel: Emirates, Dubai Airports and Dubai Tourism

In April 2024, Emirates achieved a Certified Autism Center™ Designation for all four of its Dubai Check In facilities including its dedicated hub in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). In December 2023, Dubai Airport was celebrated as the first international airport to receive the Certified Autism Centre™ Designation. Continuing to drive the accessible travel agenda forward, Emirates’ new training programme, as well as new standards and protocols to be implemented in stages in 2025 and beyond, will enable neurodiverse customers to fly more comfortably. These achievements align with the Department of Economy and Tourism’s (DET) vision of Dubai becoming the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. By working closely together – Emirates, the Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airports, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, are making significant inroads in inclusive and accessible travel.

About IBCCES

Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders. IBCCES partners with cities, destinations, and organizations on initiatives like the Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) program, ensuring autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors feel welcomed and safe. Becoming a CAD means tourism, hospitality, and entertainment organizations complete autism and sensory sensitivity training and certification developed and delivered by IBCCES. IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for families that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other.

Delta Air Lines and Endeavor Air have entered into a 10-year agreement, naming AeroCore Technologies as their exclusive engine foam wash provider. The wash program leverages AeroCore’s globally patented Nucleated Foam Technology to restore engine performance, improve fuel efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and save maintenance hours across the majority of Delta’s and Delta Connection’s fleet.

Delta Air Lines Airbus A321-211 WL N353DN (msn 8322) ONT (Michael B. Ing). Image: 964215.

AeroCore’s innovative approach to aircraft engine cleaning delivers immediate and lasting results. By reducing engine temperatures, restoring fuel economy, and cutting CO2 emissions, AeroCore’s environmentally safe foam wash provides superior performance recovery compared to traditional water or detergent engine cleaning methods.

Engine-type agnostic and non-invasive, the foam wash efficiently cleans the entire engine gas path without the need for disassembly, complex setups, or towing the aircraft to a designated wash location. AeroCore’s service is performed planeside, at the gate, allowing up to four engines to be cleaned simultaneously with full capture of engine wash effluent. The entire process is completed in approximately 1 hour.

David Thompson, Vice President of Engineering, Quality & Safety at Delta Air Lines, said: “We are thankful to have a partner in AeroCore that can service our entire fleet and help support Delta’s fuel savings and engine health priorities.”

“We are grateful for Delta’s confidence in AeroCore’s technology and the value it brings to their fleet. AeroCore is proud to support Delta, and we look forward to further strengthening this partnership,” said Jorge Saenz, Founder, and Kevin Bourke, Chief Executive Officer, AeroCore Technologies.

Flexjet, a leading luxury private aviation company, formally submitted its declaration of compliance to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that it meets the new mandatory rule for 14CFR Part 5 Safety Management System (SMS). As an industry leader in aviation safety standards, Flexjet’s strong commitment to creating, adopting and improving upon current safety standards puts it in the top 1% of private jet providers in compliance with the FAA’s SMS program. Flexjet also promotes and practices transparency and sharing data that propels industry safety measures forward, beyond mandatory guidelines.

This declaration follows Flexjet’s initial active conformance with the FAA’s SMS Voluntary Program (SMSVP) in October 2021. Since then, the company has been in the process of significantly enhancing its existing SMS to incorporate requirements from other global aviation regulators. As a result, Flexjet meets and exceeds many of the FAA’s requirements as part of the CFR Part 5 SMS and does so well ahead of the May 2027 deadline for this mandate.

“We pride ourselves in our nonstop pursuit of best-in-class safety practices, ensuring our aircraft Owners have the utmost peace of mind when in a Flexjet aircraft,” said Charles Starkowsky, Chief Safety Officer at Flexjet. “It takes an organization-wide culture of safety to be able to proactively build out a Safety Management System like this so far ahead of the FAA’s deadline, and Flexjet is a prime example for the industry to follow.”

Though not an FAA requirement, Flexjet has, throughout its 30-year history, actively participated in a formal, top-down, bottom-up, organization-wide approach to managing safety risk and assuring the effectiveness of safety risk controls. This includes systematic procedures, practices and policies for safety risk management. This advanced SMS provides an additional layer of protection for our aircraft Owners, pilots, crews and ground personnel.

Flexjet’s declaration of compliance adds to a lengthy list of safety certifications and awards that were secured thanks to a comprehensive framework of processes, policies and proprietary data built by top safety experts to ensure the highest degree of safety standards in the industry. These additional recognitions include a platinum safety rating from ARGUS, an Industry Audit Standard (IAS) certification, an IS-BAO Stage 2 compliance certification and 25 years winning the FAA Diamond Award of Excellence for Aviation Maintenance Technician Training.

Flexjet’s comprehensive Corporate Safety Management System is built on four important components:

• Safety Policy: The company documents its safety standards, develops procedures needed to implement that policy and develops an organizational structure to support its enactment and continued improvement.
• Safety Risk Management: The company identifies hazards and puts into place risk controls to either eliminate those hazards or mitigate them to an acceptable level.
• Safety Assurance: The company regularly reviews its risk controls to make sure they are effective.
• Safety Promotion: The company implements training, communicates safety objectives throughout the organization and shares results of the system to help build a positive safety culture.

About Flexjet
Flexjet, a global leader in private aviation, first entered the fractional jet ownership market in 1995 and is about to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Flexjet offers fractional jet ownership and leasing and is the first in the world to be recognized as achieving the Air Charter Safety Foundation’s Industry Audit Standard, is the first and only company to be honored with 25 FAA Diamond Awards for Excellence, upholds an ARG/US Platinum Safety Rating, a 4AIR Bronze Sustainable Rating and is certified at Stage 2 with IS-BAO. Red Label by Flexjet, a market differentiator, features an ultra-modern fleet, flight crews dedicated to a single aircraft and the LXi Cabin Collection of interiors. To date there are nearly 50 different interior designs across its fleet, which includes the Embraer Phenom 300, Praetor 500 and 600, Bombardier Challenger 350/3500 and the Gulfstream G450 and G650. Flexjet’s European fleet includes the Embraer Praetor 600 and the Gulfstream G650. Flexjet’s helicopter division offers leases, helicopter cards and convenient interchange access for its aircraft Owners. Flexjet owns, operates and maintains its fleet of Sikorsky S-76 helicopters which boast 55,000 hours of safe flying certified by Wyvern and ARG/US and serving locations throughout the northeastern United States, United Kingdom and Florida. Flexjet is a member of the Directional Aviation family of companies.

Florian Kruse, CEO of Evia Aero (left) and William Hynett, Chief Executive at Britten-Norman (right)

Evia Aero, a pioneering German company dedicated to transforming European travel through sustainable and carbon-neutral aviation, has signed a letter of intent with Britten-Norman to purchase 15 new Britten-Norman Islander aircraft.

The 15 Islander aircraft acquired from Britten-Norman will commence delivery at the beginning of 2027. These aircraft will subsequently be converted to zero-emissions platforms powered by hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion systems.

In addition to the aircraft purchase, the collaboration includes the redesigning of the Islander’s interior for a next-generation passenger experience. The new interiors will combine increased passenger comfort and functionality, as well as ensuring compatibility with sustainable aviation technologies.

The partnership aims to set new benchmarks for regional travel by providing practical, zero-emissions aircraft fuelled by green energy generated on-site at regional airports. The approach supports Evia Aero’s strategy to implement sustainable, point-to-point regional air routes connecting European economic hubs, offering passengers a climate-neutral and time-saving alternative.

This agreement underscores a shared vision for the future of aviation that balances economic growth and environmental sustainability. Through innovation and strategic partnerships, Evia Aero and Britten-Norman are paving the way for a greener, more efficient future for regional air travel.

Florian Kruse, CEO at Evia Aero commented:

“We are fully committed to the Britten-Norman Islander. The aircraft fulfils all the skills we need as an operator for short-haul flights. It is important to us to use a product that is already in use worldwide and has proven itself. With a revised customised cabin design, we will make the aircraft available to our customers.”

William Hynett, Chief Executive at Britten-Norman, said:

“We are proud to partner with Evia Aero in this groundbreaking endeavour. The adaptability of the Islander aircraft, combined with our commitment to a green future, provides us an opportunity to lead the way in sub-regional, zero-emission aviation.”

Delta soars into Centennial year with game-changing innovations at CES 2025

Delta ushered in its 100th anniversary with a larger-than-life presence at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Spearheaded by a first-of-its-kind keynote delivered by CEO Ed Bastian at Sphere, Delta’s appearance at the tech event commemorated a century of groundbreaking aviation milestones and the airline’s commitment to innovation, all powered by people.

Delta @CES 2025

Delta’s announcements to kick off its centennnial year:

• Delta soars into Centennial year with game-changing innovations at CES 2025
• Delta unveils onboard: YouTube partnership, cloud-based seatback experience, personalized features and more
• Delta, Airbus deepen innovation partnership to shape the future of global travel 
• Delta unveils AI-powered travel journey with new ‘multi-modal’ transportation options

“New marvels like AI, the digital revolution and sustainable technology are giving us incredible tools to transform the travel experience,” said Bastian during the keynote. “But amid the wonder of new technology, we’ve always understood that the entire point of innovation is to lift people up.” 

RELATED | Delta at CES 2025 Media Kit

From partnership announcements and visions of the future of travel to immersive experiences and a musical performance from multiple GRAMMY Award winning music icon Lenny Kravitz, relive all of Delta’s best moments from CES 2025.

OPENING DAY KEYNOTE

As a buzz of excitement filled Sphere, Delta’s presence at CES was undeniable, drawing a crowd of thousands of attendees. The keynote began with a moving, in-person monologue by awarding-winning actress Viola Davis, whose poignant words set the tone for what was to come. The audience was then taken on a fully immersive flight journey, with Bastian being joined on stage throughout the keynote by Delta people and industry leaders to showcase the new technology and partnerships that will be part of Delta’s next 100 years.  

DELTA CONCIERGE

USING MODERN TECHNOLOGY TO DRIVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

For the second act of the keynote, Bastian was joined by Qualtrics Co-Founder & Chairman Ryan Smith and Delta flight attendant Jeanie Brady to discuss how customer feedback shapes the future of travel, teeing up the introduction of Delta Concierge.

Built into the Fly Delta app, Delta Concierge is a digital tool that uses generative AI to create seamless and personalized moments while making a customer’s journey easier – almost like a personal assistant.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Delta unveils AI-powered travel journey with new ‘multi-modal’ transportation options

The always-on, AI-powered ‘Delta Concierge’ promises personalized, contextual insights and experiences to help customers connect to their journey more meaningfully at every step. New partnership with Uber, advancements with Joby, shine light on ‘multi-modal’ travel future.

CREATING NEW MODES OF SEAMLESS TRAVEL

Bastian also outlined a multi-modal future of travel—where a single customer itinerary will be connected from start to finish through deep partner integrations. Sharing the stage with Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, Bastian announced a new partnership with the transport company that will allow customers to link their Uberand SkyMiles accounts and earn miles for eligible rides and deliveries.

To further lean on the ecosystem of connected travel, Delta Concierge will also connect with Joby’s electric air taxi service that promises to transform the travel experience with home-to-airport transportation in the years ahead. 

REIMAGINING THE ONBOARD EXPERIENCE

To enhance its world-class onboard experience, Delta is introducing a groundbreaking cloud-based in-flight entertainment system. This new platform builds on the personalized Delta Sync experience that was launched in 2023 for SkyMiles Members, paving the way for expanded content offerings and collaborations with brands our customers know and love, like YouTube.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Delta unveils onboard: YouTube partnership, cloud-based seatback experience, personalized features and more

Alongside YouTube Chief Business Officer Mary Ellen Coe, Bastian announced a new partnership with the YouTube that will allow SkyMiles Members to enjoy their favorite creators, podcasts and music artists ad-free while onboard most flights with Delta Sync Wi-Fi and Delta Sync seatback as part of their in-flight entertainment. 

THE FUTURE OF FLYING

As Delta continues to expand as an international airline, it’s the company’s responsibility to continue increasing the world’s access to travel. That’s why Delta’s partnership with Airbus is so vital. Today, Delta operates more Airbus jets than any other airline in the world, so it was only fitting that for the final act of the keynote, Bastian was joined by Julie Kitcher, Chief Sustainability Officer and Communications at Airbus, for a fireside chat to discuss the steps the companies are taking together to build a better world for the next 100 years. 

Introduced during the fireside chat, a new partnership with Airbus UpNext will position the world’s leading aircraft manufacturer and its largest operator at the forefront of advancing next generation aviation technologies to revolutionize the future of flying.

SUSTAINABILITY

Delta, Airbus deepen innovation partnership to shape the future of global travel 

Announced during Delta’s CES 2025 keynote, Delta will be a key partner with Airbus’ UpNext innovation lab; Airbus to also invest in scaling the production of sustainable aviation fuel through Minnesota SAF Hub.

Bastian and Kitcher were also joined by WAYE Founder Sinead Bovell to imagine how the aviation industry and travel experience might evolve to be more sustainable and adapt to customer needs in the coming decades.

THE ATTENDEE EXPERIENCE

Audience members at Sphere were in for a treat as multiple GRAMMY Award winning music icon Lenny Kravitz put on an exclusive performance after the commencement of the keynote.

But Delta’s presence at CES went far beyond the main stage, with the airline kicking things off at 6 a.m. on Jan. 7 in the grandest way imaginable: transforming Sphere’s exterior – the Exosphere – into 360-degree, vibrant worlds representing the many destinations the airline connects its customers to. At night, Delta’s activation shifted to feature five planes representing the evolution of aviation over Delta’s 100-year history.  

In Sphere’s Atrium, CES ticket holders were able to explore an interactive, pre-show exhibit prior to the keynote, all designed to celebrate Delta’s 100-year history.  

Delta Through the Years

Inspiring Delta employee stories and company artifacts showcased the history of aviation.

Virtual Pilot Training Experience

Attendees got a glimpse of what it’s like to fly at 30,000 feet, guided by Delta Pilots.

Delta Locals

Guests got to preview Delta Locals, a new travel planning platform from Delta that uses new platforms and emerging technology.

“Delta’s appearance at CES is a testament to the strength of our brand and the exciting future ahead,” said Chief Marketing Officer Alicia Tillman. “This was an opportunity for attendees to experience who we are in a new and unforgettable way. As we look toward the next century, we’re committed to creating more moments that inspire and allow us to enrich our customer connections while continuing to spotlight and celebrate our incredible Delta people.”

Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, proudly inaugurated its first wide-body operations with the arrival of the Airbus A330-200 today. This historic milestone marks a significant expansion for the airline, which began its journey in 2000 with a modest fleet of two aircraft. At the special event held at Velana International Airport to celebrate this landmark achievement, the President of the Maldives, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, graced the occasion with his presence along with the Vice President, Hussain Mohamed Latheef, several government dignitaries, and senior officials. The arrival of the Airbus A330-200 marks a historic milestone for Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, as it embarks on its first wide-body operations. This addition to the airline’s fleet marks a significant milestone in its 25th year of service, expanding its capacity to connect the Maldives with more international destinations and travellers worldwide. 

 At the event, Island Aviation Services’ Managing Director, Mr. Ibrahim Iyas, emphasised the significance of the new aircraft in the company’s growth strategy and its impact on the Maldives’ tourism industry. He stated, “With the introduction of our very first wide-body aircraft, we are now poised to expand our international flight capacity, open new routes, and connect the Maldives to long-haul destinations. This transformative step will not only strengthen our position as a global airline but also play a pivotal role in boosting the Maldives’ tourism sector by making our islands more accessible to travellers from around the world.” 

The new Maldivian A330-200 aircraft will offer three cabin classes, providing seating for 264 passengers. The aircraft will feature 18 seats in Business Class, 36 in Premium Economy, and 210 in Economy Class, ensuring a comfortable journey for all travellers. This aircraft will enable the launch of direct flights to three major cities in China: Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, enhancing the global connectivity of the airline. This expansion is expected to provide a substantial boost to the Maldives’ tourism industry, attracting more visitors from China and beyond. 

With the introduction of the wide-body Airbus A330-200, Maldivian is set to significantly enhance its long-haul flight capabilities. The airline plans to further expand its routes to key destinations in Europe and South Africa. The increased passenger capacity and extended range of the new aircraft will allow the airline to better serve its international routes and meet the growing demand for travel between the Maldives, China, and key tourist destinations. 

An airshow featuring Maldivian’s Dash-8, DHC-6 Twin Otters, and ATR aircraft was held at Velana International Airport during the event, showcasing the airline’s current fleet. The airshow was visible from various locations in Malé and Hulhumalé. In addition, the airshow was followed by the announcement of an exciting photo and videography competition. Participants have the chance to win exciting prizes, including 5-star resort stays and international and domestic flight tickets. This airshow aims to engage the community and celebrate the airline’s milestone in a creative and interactive way. 

To continue the celebrations, a festival named “Maldivian Haveeree Ufaa” is being organised for the public on January 11th.  With the full participation of the airlines’ staff, this event will feature interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and engaging activities designed to highlight the airline’s offerings and achievements. The festival aims to foster a sense of community and pride among the public and employees alike as the airline celebrates this significant milestone.  

52.7 Million Passengers Served – A 15% Increase Over 2023

Highest-Ranked Middle Eastern Airport for Connectivity

Hamad International Airport achieved significant milestones in 2024, serving 52.7 million passengers, a 15% increase compared to the previous year. The airport continues to strengthen its role as a key global hub for airlines and passengers. Aircraft movements also rose to 279,000, marking an 10% year-on-year increase, while a total of 2.6 million tonnes of cargo handled, a rise of 12% compared to the previous year. Additionally, the airport managed 41.3 million bags, reflecting a 10% increase in baggage handling efficiency.

According to the Airport Council International’s “ACI” Airport Industry Connectivity Report 2024, Hamad International Airport was the highest-ranked airport in the Middle East for connectivity, providing passengers some of the best connection options through its award-winning facilities.

Local Market Expansion

In 2024, Hamad International Airport welcomed over 4 million travellers every month, reflecting its capacity to manage high volumes efficiently. Local passenger traffic grew by 16% – for the first time faster than transfer traffic – driven by Doha’s increasing appeal as a tourist destination and the joint-efforts with Qatar Tourism to attract charter services. Notably, the airport handled over 12 million point-to-point passengers.

Airline Partnerships and Regional Traffic Insights

The airport expanded its global network in 2024 to 197 destinations, with 55 total airlines operating from Hamad International Airport, including new airline partners like China Southern Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Japan Airlines, Garuda Indonesia and Akasa Air. Its hub carrier Qatar Airways added numerous destinations to its network including Osaka, Hamburg, Lisbon and Toronto.

Passenger volumes showed strong growth across both eastern and western markets. Traffic to China surged by 87%, while emerging markets in Asia, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, also demonstrated robust growth. Mature European markets, including the UK, Germany, Spain, and France, achieved double-digit growth, reinforcing the airport’s global appeal.

Hamad Ali Al-Khater, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, commented: “Our record-breaking achievements underscore our vision of establishing Qatar as a premier global hub for connectivity, commerce, and tourism. These results highlight our operational efficiency, consistent pursuit of innovation, and unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional passenger experience, which has once again earned us the Skytrax World’s Best Airport Award in 2024”.

“November and December 2024 witnessed Hamad International Airport’s point-to-point passenger volumes surpassing those during the FIFA World Cup 2022, highlighting Doha’s rising prominence as a premier destination. As we commemorate our 10th anniversary, we are dedicated to the next chapter—enhancing infrastructure by adding more gates for passenger convenience before mid-2025, fortifying global partnerships, and contributing to Qatar’s economic growth”.