The European Commission will impose penalties on foreign airlines conducting domestic flights within Russia, following the adoption of a new sanctions package by the EU Council against the country.This latest set of measures aims to increase pressure on Russia while reaffirming the European Union’s unwavering commitment to a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.<h3>Targeting Key Sectors of the Russian Economy</h3>The sanctions package targets critical sectors of the Russian economy, including energy, trade, transportation, infrastructure, and financial services. Additionally, it introduces new measures to combat sanction evasion, according to aviation news outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/europa-ira-punir-aereas-estrangeiras-que-fizerem-voos-domesticos-na-russia/">Aeroin</a>.To further minimize the risk of circumvention, some provisions have also been incorporated into the EU's sanctions regime against Belarus.At the same time, the EU has updated and reinforced its sanctions related to Crimea and Sevastopol, as well as non-government-controlled areas in the provinces of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia.<h3>Expanded Flight Restrictions</h3>The package further extends the EU's flight ban, allowing restrictions on third-party carriers operating domestic flights within Russia or supplying aircraft-related products to Russian airlines. If listed under these sanctions, such airlines will be prohibited from operating flights to the EU.Recently, Russia has taken steps to allow foreign airlines to operate domestic routes, in an effort to meet internal demand while gradually working toward self-sufficiency in domestic aircraft production.Qatar, Kazakhstan, India, and Kuwait have been invited to bring their airlines into Russia for domestic operations. However, no agreements have been reached so far. With the latest sanctions, it is unlikely that major airlines such as Air Astana, Air India, Qatar Airways, and Kuwait Airways will move forward with these plans—especially as they would face bans on serving European destinations, a key part of their current networks.

EU to Sanction Foreign Airlines Operating Domestic Flights in Russia

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has opened nominations for the sixth edition of its Diversity and Inclusion Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry.The awards are divided into three categories:<ul><li>Inspirational Role Model Award – Recognizes a woman in a leadership position in aviation who has driven meaningful change in diversity and inclusion on a global scale.</li><li>High Flyer Award – Honors an aviation professional under the age of 40 who has taken concrete actions to advance diversity and inclusion.</li><li>Diversity &amp; Inclusion Team Award – Given to IATA member airlines that have successfully implemented initiatives with tangible results in this area.</li></ul>Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating: “As the aviation industry grows, attracting talent is a priority. Promoting gender balance will help expand the pool of candidates interested in the many career opportunities aviation offers.” He also praised past winners and expressed enthusiasm for the new round of nominations.Each winner will receive a $25,000 prize, which they can either use personally or donate to an organization dedicated to diversity and inclusion. The awards are sponsored by Qatar Airways.Industry professionals can submit nominations through [<a href="https://www.iata.org/en/about/our-commitment/25-by-2025/diversity-inclusion-awards/#tab-3">this link</a>].Antonio Schulthess, Chief Human Resources Officer at Qatar Airways, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment: “We are proud to continue sponsoring the IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards. These recognitions highlight the winners’ positive impact on the industry and the path they are shaping for the future.”An independent committee will review the nominations, led by Karen Walker, Editor-in-Chief of Air Transport World, along with the 2024 award winners: Kendra Kincade, CEO and founder of Elevate Foundation; Mafunase Ngosa Malenga, Director of the Southern Africa Institute of Aviation Science and Technology; and Jade Fisher-Ryner, Inclusion and Diversity Advisor at British Airways.The winners will be announced on June 2 during the <a href="https://www.iata.org/en/events/agm/agm-2025/">81st IATA Annual General Meeting</a> and the World Air Transport Summit in Delhi, India.

IATA Opens Nominations for the 6th Diversity and Inclusion Awards

Avianca has announced the launch of two new routes from Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua, Nicaragua, to San José (SJO), Costa Rica, and Fort Lauderdale (FLL), USA, starting in May 2025.The airline will operate both routes using Airbus A320ceo and A320neo aircraft, configured with 180 seats: 12 in Business Class and 168 in Economy Class.<h3>New Avianca Routes from Managua</h3><h3>Managua – Fort Lauderdale</h3><ul><li>Flight AV 446: MGA 10:00 – 14:35 FLL / Daily</li><li>Flight AV 447: FLL 16:00 – 16:40 MGA / Daily</li></ul>Avianca will offer 2,520 weekly seats on this route, competing with low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines, which currently operates three weekly flights using Airbus A320neo aircraft.<h3>Managua – San José</h3><ul><li>Flight AV 602: SJO 17:25 – 18:20 MGA / Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday</li><li>Flight AV 603: MGA 07:00 – 07:50 SJO / Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday</li></ul>This route will have a weekly capacity of 1,440 seats, competing with SANSA (which operates five weekly flights using Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft) and Copa Airlines (which offers three weekly flights with Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft)."We are thrilled to expand connectivity options for our customers in Nicaragua. We are confident that these new routes will boost tourism and business in the country, allowing more travelers to experience its cultural and natural richness," said Rolando Damas, Avianca’s Sales Director for North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Europe.With these additions, Avianca will double its destinations from Managua, increasing from two to four, alongside its 19 weekly flights to Miami (MIA) and 23 weekly flights to San Salvador (SAL).<h3>Managua Airport and Current Operations</h3>According to Cirium data, nine airlines currently operate at Managua Airport, connecting the city to 12 domestic and international destinations. In 2024, the airport handled over 1.8 million available seats, solidifying Avianca as the country’s leading airline.<h3>Airlines and Routes from Managua (MGA)</h3><ul><li>Aeromexico: Mexico City</li><li>American Airlines: Miami</li><li>Avianca: Fort Lauderdale, Miami, San José, San Salvador</li><li>ConViasa: Havana</li><li>Copa Airlines: Guatemala City, Panama City, San José</li><li>La Costeña: Bluefields, Corn Island, Puerto Cabezas</li><li>SANSA: San José</li><li>Spirit Airlines: Fort Lauderdale</li><li>United Airlines: Houston</li></ul><figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/managua_red_de_destinos.png" alt="Managua - Red de destinos"></figure>

Avianca Adds Two New Routes from Managua to San José and Fort Lauderdale Starting May 2025

EVA Air has introduced its new fourth-generation Premium Economy seats, featuring an impressive 42-inch width. The product was officially presented during the launch ceremony "Focus on Evolution: Taking Off with Heart", held at Hangar 4 of Evergreen Aviation Technologies Corporation.The event was led by EVA Air President Clay Sun, who showcased the new seat technology. The first aircraft equipped with the enhanced Premium Economy is a Boeing 787-9."As the first airline in the world to introduce Premium Economy, EVA Air has always focused on innovation driven by passenger needs and setting industry trends. Our fourth-generation seats retain the core philosophy of previous versions while enhancing comfort, style, and functionality—demonstrating our commitment to service innovation and attention to detail," said Clay Sun, President of EVA Air.<h3>Premium Economy on EVA Air’s Boeing 787-9</h3>The new three-class Boeing 787-9 is configured as follows:<ul><li>26 seats in Business Class</li><li>28 seats in Premium Economy</li><li>224 seats in Economy Class</li></ul>The aircraft’s first scheduled destination is Jakarta, followed by Munich, Milan-Malpensa, non-stop flights to Vienna, and a morning departure to San Francisco.<figure class="image image-style-align-center image_resized" style="width:100%;"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/eva_air_premium_economy_2.jpeg" alt="eva air premium economy 2"></figure>Premium Economy features a 2-3-2 cabin layout, with each seat equipped with:<ul><li>A 15.6-inch high-resolution screen</li><li>An entertainment system controller</li><li>110V AC power outlets and USB ports</li></ul><h3>EVA Air: Pioneering Premium Economy Since 1992</h3>EVA Air was the first airline to introduce Premium Economy—originally known as Evergreen Deluxe—in 1992, revolutionizing premium travel standards.The airline’s first three-class Boeing 787-9, registered as B-17887, was delivered using a 30% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend, reducing approximately 63,000 kg of CO₂ emissions.<h2>Fleet Expansion Plans</h2>EVA Air plans to add eight additional three-class Boeing 787-9s and five two-class Boeing 787-10s by 2029. Additionally, the airline expects to incorporate 18 Airbus A350-1000s by 2027 and 15 Airbus A321neos by 2029, reinforcing its commitment to fleet modernization and sustainability.

EVA Air Unveils Fourth-Generation Premium Economy Seats with 42-Inch Width

Turkish Airlines has unveiled the Pet Lounge, the first-ever facility in the airline industry designed to enhance the travel experience for passengers flying with their pets.Located in Concourse B at Istanbul Airport, this innovative service underscores the airline’s commitment to passenger satisfaction and comfort, according to a report by <a href="https://aeroin.net/turkish-aorcomes-inaugura-primeira-sala-vip-no-mundo-para-cachorros">Aeroin,</a> one of our partner media outlets.Spanning 250 square meters, the soundproof and internationally certified Pet Lounge offers unparalleled care and comfort for traveling pets. Under the supervision of an on-site veterinarian, the lounge features an outdoor terrace for walks, 36 spaces for cats, 32 spaces for dogs, and 10 spaces for birds, all designed with soundproofing and odor control. Additional amenities include special care areas, automated feeding and hydration systems, ensuring pets' well-being before their flight.<h3>More Enhancements for Turkish Airlines Passengers</h3>In addition to the Pet Lounge, Turkish Airlines has introduced several new initiatives to enhance passenger experience:<ul><li>OneTeam Passion for Türkiye Project: A hospitality transformation initiative aimed at elevating Turkish Airlines' cabin crew service to the highest industry standards.</li><li>Unlimited TK WiFi Connectivity: Passengers at Istanbul Airport now enjoy free and unlimited internet access via the TK WiFi network, allowing for more efficient use of their waiting time.</li><li>Digital Assistance via WhatsApp: A new chatbot service integrated with Indoor Map navigation helps passengers locate their luggage and parked vehicles within Istanbul Airport with ease.</li></ul>With these innovations, Turkish Airlines continues to set new standards for passenger experience, offering enhanced services for both travelers and their pets.

Turkish Airlines Introduces Pet Lounge at Istanbul Airport, Enhancing Travel Experience for Pet Owners

Emirates has announced a special offer for passengers traveling to Dubai between February and March 2025, providing a complimentary one-night hotel stay at selected properties. To qualify, travelers must book their flight by February 26 and travel before March 29.Passengers flying First Class or Business Class will enjoy a free night at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, renowned for its luxury services and high-end amenities. Meanwhile, those in Premium Economy or Economy Class will receive a complimentary stay at the Holiday Inn Festival City, strategically located in the heart of the city.The offer also applies to transit passengers with layovers of at least 24 hours in Dubai, allowing them to rest before continuing their journey while exploring the city. Emirates further enhances the experience with 24-hour check-in and check-out at participating hotels, ensuring flexibility for travelers. Guests also have the option to extend their stay at preferential rates.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35876" data-title="You might be interested"></section><h3>Additional Perks for Emirates Passengers</h3><h4>My Emirates Pass</h4>By presenting their boarding pass, travelers can unlock exclusive discounts on attractions such as At The Top Burj Khalifa, The Palm Monorail, The View at The Palm, and City Sightseeing tours. They can also enjoy reduced entry fees at Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and Dubai Parks &amp; Resorts. The offer, valid until March 31, 2025, includes over 600 exclusive promotions and free access to the Vision Pavilion at Expo City.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/dubai.jpg" alt="Dubai"></figure><h3>Emirates Skywards</h3>Members of the Emirates Skywards loyalty program can earn miles through a global network of partner hotels, airlines, retailers, and banks. These miles can be redeemed for flight tickets, seat upgrades, and event tickets. While in Dubai, travelers can continue earning miles at Dubai Duty Free, Skywards Everyday, and Dubai Mall.With these offers, Emirates continues to enhance the travel experience, providing added value and exclusive benefits for passengers visiting Dubai.

Emirates Offers Free Hotel Stay for Travelers to Dubai in Early 2025

Air Europa has started 2025 on a high note, reporting record-breaking figures for its long-haul operations, particularly in the Americas. In 2024, the airline transported over 3.1 million passengers, achieving an occupancy rate of approximately 91%. This marks an 8% increase compared to the previous year and a 26% rise from 2019 levels.The airline also posted all-time high global revenues, surpassing €2.9 billion, making 2024 its most financially successful year to date, according to its partner media outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/air-europa-inicia-2025-com-resultados-recordes-de-passageiros-e-ocupacao-nas-americas">Aeroin</a>.In total, Air Europa carried more than 12 million passengers throughout the year. Looking ahead to 2025, the airline expects to maintain this growth trajectory, with over 3.5 million long-haul seats available and a projected 3.3 million long-haul passengers.<h2>Fleet Expansion and Increased Frequencies Drive Transatlantic Growth</h2>Air Europa’s transatlantic expansion strategy is built on two key pillars: fleet growth and increased frequencies on strategic routes.To support this expansion, the airline will receive three new Boeing 787 Dreamliners in 2025, boosting seat availability and allowing for sustainable network growth.Starting in June, Air Europa will increase frequencies on several key routes:<ul><li>Medellín, Panama, and Asunción will see daily flights to and from Madrid.</li><li>Cancún and Punta Cana will benefit from five weekly flights.</li><li>Madrid-Córdoba-Salvador de Bahía will operate four times per week.</li></ul>Additionally, one of the major highlights for 2025 is the New York-Madrid route becoming a daily service. The airline will also launch direct flights from Quito and Guayaquil to Europe, with three weekly flights planned for each Ecuadorian city.<h2>New Route to Istanbul Enhances Connectivity</h2>Air Europa has also announced a new route between Madrid and Istanbul, set to launch on May 12, 2025. This addition will provide greater connectivity for travelers from the Americas to one of the most strategic business and tourism hubs in the Middle East.With these developments, Air Europa continues to strengthen its position as a key player in transatlantic travel, enhancing its global network and providing more options for passengers across its expanding route map.

Air Europa Kicks Off 2025 with Record-Breaking Long-Haul Operations, Driven by Growth in the Americas

As Carnival 2025 approaches, Brazilian airlines are preparing for a surge in demand, offering approximately 2 million seats on domestic and international flights.According to the Brazilian Association of Airline Companies (ABEAR), this represents a 6% increase compared to last year’s holiday period, adding 115,000 more seats. The expanded capacity will cover flights from Friday, February 28, to Ash Wednesday, March 5, as reported by our partner media outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/aereas-brasileiras-oferecem-2-milhoes-de-assentos-para-o-carnaval-de-2025/#google_vignette">Aeroin</a>.<h3>Key Destinations with Increased Capacity</h3>Rio de Janeiro, one of the most iconic Carnival destinations, will see a notable increase of 21,000 seats on domestic flights, especially for connections with São Paulo, Espírito Santo, and Pernambuco.For international routes, Rio will gain an additional 3,000 seats on flights to Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, underscoring its strong appeal to foreign tourists during the festivities.In São Paulo, the increase is even greater, with 42,000 additional domestic seats and 7,000 new seats on international flights to destinations including the United States, Porto and Lisbon (Portugal), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Montevideo (Uruguay), and Santiago (Chile), departing from Guarulhos and Campinas airports.Other regions will also benefit from expanded flight availability:<ul><li>Brasília: +9,000 seats</li><li>Santa Catarina: +8,000 seats</li><li>Pernambuco: +4,000 seats</li><li>Mato Grosso: +4,000 seats</li><li>Paraná: +2,000 seats</li></ul><h3>Airlines Prepare for High Passenger Traffic</h3>To handle the increased travel flow during Carnival, AZUL, GOL, LATAM, and VOEPASS are implementing special operations.This includes reinforcing check-in services, boarding areas, and baggage handling procedures, as well as providing guidance on self-service kiosks, security protocols, and customer support.Additionally, airlines are enhancing their Call Center, maintenance, and operations control systems to ensure efficient and high-quality service throughout the holiday period.

Beleza!. Brazilian Airlines Increase Capacity for 2025 Carnival Travel Boom

Air Lease Corporation announced the signing of long-term lease agreements with Uzbek airline Qanot Sharq for five Airbus A321neo aircraft, including three A321XLR and two A321neo LR. The delivery of these units is scheduled for 2026 and 2027 from the company’s order portfolio with Airbus."We are pleased to strengthen our collaboration with Qanot Sharq and support its expansion with the addition of these new Airbus A321neo LR/XLR," said AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation. "These planes will help expand the airline’s network and improve its operational efficiency by offering greater range and lower fuel consumption, ensuring high-quality service in the Uzbek market."Nosir Abdugafarov, owner of Qanot Sharq Airlines, highlighted the importance of this agreement for the company’s growth strategy."The addition of these aircraft represents a key step in expanding our fleet, allowing us to open new routes, optimize fuel efficiency, and enhance the passenger experience. As Uzbekistan’s first private airline, we are committed to innovation and growth, and this agreement reinforces our vision of expanding our network without compromising service quality."

Air Lease Corporation Signs Long-Term Lease Agreement with Qanot Sharq for Five Airbus A321neo

Brazilian entrepreneur and Azul Linhas Aéreas founder David Neeleman has maintained his 4% stake in the company following a major restructuring that reduced his shareholding by nearly 90%.The process, which helped Azul avoid filing for Chapter 11—a U.S. bankruptcy protection mechanism that often shifts company control to creditors—allowed the airline to eliminate $1.6 billion in debt and strengthen its financial position.The restructuring included a $525 million capital injection, debt-to-equity conversion, the issuance of new shares, and the transformation of preferred shares into common stock, as reported by our partner media outlet, <a href="https://aeroin.net/david-neeleman-preserva-participacao-de-4-na-azul-apos-reestruturacao-complexa-da-divida/">Aeroin</a>.With these changes, Azul, which currently has 340 million shares, will be able to expand its capital to between 2.4 billion and 3 billion common shares, depending on the conversion price. The process is expected to be completed within one to two years.As a result, bondholders are expected to own up to 80% of the company, while managers and preferred shareholders will hold approximately 11.5%.Azul’s executive team will control 3% of the shares and may receive up to an additional 2%, subject to achieving future targets, including a potential merger with Gol Linhas Aéreas.Additionally, Azul plans to issue new shares to raise at least $200 million, with the possibility of Neeleman increasing his stake through new investments.

David Neeleman Retains 4% Stake in Azul After Major Restructuring

Samoa Airways took the drastic measure of canceling all scheduled flights on February 12 after it was revealed that 10% of its employees tested positive for illegal substances, prescription medication, and alcohol.The Apia Faleolo-based airline had to lease aircraft from a competitor to meet flight demand.According to information obtained by CH-Aviation, three employees tested positive for methamphetamine, amphetamine, and cannabis and were suspended pending a final management decision.Additionally, six employees who tested positive for alcohol received warning letters and underwent further testing, though the results have yet to be released, as reported by our partner media outlet, Aeroin.The tests were conducted in Samoa by the Samoa Scientific Research Organization (SROS) as part of the airline’s drug and alcohol testing policy.A pilot who tested positive for a prescription drug (sleeping pills) was also suspended but was later reinstated after a second test came back negative.Samoa Airways CEO Fauo’o Fatu Tielu told the Samoa Observer that the employee suspensions, combined with other staff being on sick leave or vacation, left the airline with too few crew members to operate scheduled flights that day."One of our pilots tested positive, two were on sick leave, another was on vacation, and one more did not have enough flight hours, so we had to lease capacity from Talofa Airways, which cost us $30,000," Tielu explained.Samoa Airways operates two DHC-6-300 aircraft, offering flights between Apia Fagali’i and Apia Faleolo to Pago Pago, American Samoa. The airline also connects Pago Pago with Fitiuta and Ofu, both in American Samoa.Tielu emphasized that, given the company’s role as a local ground handler for airlines like Air New Zealand and Fiji Airways, maintaining a safe work environment and high operational standards is essential. Publishing the test results, he said, demonstrates transparency and accountability.“Samoa Airways prioritizes safety above all else,” the airline stated. “The recent flight cancellations, though inconvenient, are a testament to our commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards. Our dedication to safety extends to our partner airlines, which rely on us to uphold these high operational standards.”

Samoa Airways Cancels Flights After Employees Test Positive for Drugs and Alcohol

LATAM Airlines announced on Tuesday the appointment of Rodrigo Padilla as its new Global Chief Brand Officer, a newly created position aimed at strengthening the company’s brand management and strategy across its operations in South America, including Brazil, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia.With 21 years of experience, Padilla brings extensive knowledge in the Consumer Goods and Healthcare sectors, and he is recognized for his ability to develop and strengthen successful brands in the market. Upon taking on this new role, he expressed his excitement about joining LATAM and his commitment to elevating the brand, as reported by our partner media outlet, <a href="https://aeroin.net/latam-cria-cargo-executivo-para-coordenacao-de-sua-marca-em-5-paises-da-america-do-sul/">Aeroin</a>.“My goal is to make the LATAM brand synonymous with exceptional experiences and unforgettable travel memories. We will take advantage of the group’s positive momentum to build a brand that our customers not only trust but also love,” said Padilla.One of his main objectives will be leading the transformation of LATAM Airlines, LATAM Pass, and LATAM Cargo into “love brands,” which are brands that create strong emotional connections with consumers. This strategy aims not only to build customer loyalty but also to foster a deeper connection with travelers.Rodrigo Padilla will oversee strategies for both B2B (Business to Business) and B2C (Business to Consumer) markets, working to promote a clearer and more cohesive perception of LATAM’s experience and benefits. He is committed to developing a strong value proposition that resonates with the company’s diverse audiences, reinforcing the brand’s presence in a highly competitive region.

LATAM Airlines Appoints Rodrigo Padilla as Global Chief Brand Officer

ITA Airways is expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean for the winter 2025/2026 season with the launch of a non-stop flight between Rome-Fiumicino and Mauritius. This new service complements the airline’s existing routes to the Maldives and makes ITA the fourth Lufthansa Group carrier to operate flights to the island nation.<h2>New Seasonal Service Details</h2>The seasonal route will commence on December 7, 2025, with twice-weekly flights operating on:<ul><li>Departures from Rome-Fiumicino: Fridays and Sundays at 22:00, arriving in Mauritius at 11:20 the next day.</li><li>Return flights from Mauritius: Saturdays and Mondays at 22:10, landing in Rome-Fiumicino at 06:40 the following morning.</li></ul>ITA Airways will operate the route using the Airbus A330-900neo, featuring a three-class configuration with 291 seats:<ul><li>30 Business Class</li><li>24 Premium Economy</li><li>237 Economy</li></ul><h2>ITA Airways’ Expanding Route Network</h2>For the summer 2025 season, ITA Airways will operate 59 destinations, including:<ul><li>16 domestic routes</li><li>27 international routes</li><li>16 intercontinental routes</li></ul>Additionally, during the summer peak season, the airline will serve 12 additional seasonal destinations, including three domestic routes and nine Mediterranean hotspots in Greece, Spain, and the Italian islands.<h3>Statement from ITA Airways President</h3>Sandro Pappalardo, President of ITA Airways, emphasized the airline’s strengthened position following its integration into Lufthansa Group:<blockquote>“The company is even stronger for the upcoming summer 2025 season thanks to its entry into the Lufthansa Group. ITA Airways will continue to ensure high-quality mobility for all Italian citizens while contributing to the promotion of destinations and the development of the national economy.”</blockquote><h2>ITA Airways’ Long-Haul Destinations</h2>ITA Airways offers an extensive intercontinental network, including:<ul><li>North America: New York-JFK, Boston, Miami, Washington-Dulles, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago O’Hare, Toronto-Pearson.</li><li>South America: Buenos Aires, São Paulo-Guarulhos, Rio de Janeiro-Galeão.</li><li>Middle East: Jeddah, Riyadh, Dubai.</li><li>Asia &amp; Indian Ocean: Delhi, Maldives, Bangkok, Tokyo-Haneda.</li></ul>With the addition of Mauritius, ITA Airways continues its strategic expansion, reinforcing its position as a key player in the global aviation market.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35860" data-title="You might be interested"></section>

ITA Airways Expands Indian Ocean Network with New Rome–Mauritius Route for Winter 2025/2026

The Civil Aeronautics Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil) announced that Frontier Airlines has requested authorization to operate flights between Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogotá, Colombia.If approved, this route would mark Frontier Airlines' entry into South America, with Bogotá as its first destination in the region. Additionally, it would contribute to the diversification of the air travel market between Colombia and Puerto Rico.Currently, this market is dominated by Avianca, which connects Medellín and Bogotá with San Juan. In October 2024, JetBlue also launched operations from San Juan to Medellín.According to the document submitted to Aerocivil, Frontier plans to operate two weekly flights using Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft. The airline will compete directly with Avianca, which already operates ten weekly flights between Bogotá and San Juan, using Airbus A320ceo and A320neo.Frontier has established a strong presence in San Juan, operating flights to 15 destinations in the United States and nine in the Caribbean (Antigua, Bridgetown, Port of Spain, Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Santiago de los Caballeros, St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. Maarten).Frontier Airlines is part of the Indigo Partners investment group, led by Bill Franke, who is considered one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, according to Forbes.With Frontier’s potential arrival in Bogotá, it would be the first time that three Indigo Partners airlines operate in the same market, as the group also controls:<ul><li>JetSMART, which has a presence in Colombia’s domestic market.</li><li>Volaris, Mexico’s largest airline, which already operates flights between Mexico City and Bogotá.</li></ul>

Frontier Airlines seeks approval to operate flights to its first South American destination

Avianca has announced the appointment of Otto Gergye as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), aiming to strengthen its commercial strategy.Gergye brings over 20 years of experience in the aviation and tourism industries, specializing in strategic planning, commercial development, sales, and revenue optimization across multiple sector-leading companies.<h3>Extensive Industry Experience</h3>Throughout his career, Gergye has held key leadership positions at several international airlines, including:<ul><li>Chief Revenue Officer at Thai Airways</li><li>Vice President of Consulting Services at Sabre</li><li>Commercial Sales Manager for Qantas in Asia</li></ul>He has also served in commercial roles at Fiji Airways, Air Berlin, British Airways, Amadeus, and KLM.<h3>Avianca Leadership Highlights Gergye’s Strategic Vision</h3>Avianca CEO Frederico Pedreira welcomed Gergye’s appointment, emphasizing his experience and strategic insight."His track record will help us strengthen our competitiveness, efficiency, and flexible offerings, allowing customers to choose how they want to fly based on their needs," said Pedreira.<h3>Gergye’s Commitment to Avianca’s Growth</h3>Gergye expressed his enthusiasm for joining Avianca, stating:"It's an honor to join Avianca and enhance its commercial strategy while delivering on our value promise to customers. We will continue working to provide options aligned with industry trends, from competitive fares to premium services with exclusive benefits."

Avianca Appoints Otto Gergye as New Chief Commercial Officer

Dohop, a provider of multi-destination flight connection solutions, has announced that Air Europa has joined Worldwide by easyJet, the alternative interline platform powered by the low-cost carrier. This collaboration adds more than 5,000 new weekly connections and expands the Worldwide network with 25 new destinations.Although Air Europa already has several traditional interline and codeshare agreements, this marks its first partnership with an alternative interline model.<h3>Expanding Connectivity to Latin America and Europe</h3>Through this alliance, passengers booking flights via easyJet will gain access to new long-haul destinations in Latin America, as well as an expanded range of European and domestic routes operated by Air Europa. With this integration, easyJet will now be able to market flights to Latin America, enhancing its connectivity options.“We are delighted to welcome Air Europa to Worldwide by easyJet. Given that both airlines operate in highly demanded destinations, we are confident that this partnership will be very popular with our customers. Each year, millions of connecting passengers travel to and from Europe,” said Dawn Hardwick, Director of Distribution and Strategic Airline Partnerships at easyJet.For Air Europa, the collaboration strengthens its access to easyJet’s extensive European network, particularly at key connection hubs such as London Gatwick (LGW), Milan Malpensa (MXP), Madrid (MAD), and Palma de Mallorca (PMI).“We are excited to partner with easyJet and Dohop, as it allows us to expand our reach in Europe and offer our passengers greater connectivity,” said Estelle Leray, Air Europa’s Director of Alliances and Customer Experience.<h3>Innovative Technology for Seamless Connections</h3>According to a statement, the integration with Worldwide by easyJet is made possible by Dohop’s technology, which enables smooth airline connections without the complexities of traditional interline agreements. This platform allows passengers to book itineraries with multiple airlines in a single transaction, ensuring a more efficient and uninterrupted travel experience.“We are proud to support easyJet and Air Europa in this partnership through our technology, providing even greater connectivity for their passengers,” said Sarah Hanan, Chief Commercial Officer at Dohop. “This collaboration is a great example of how alternative interline models can create new opportunities for both airlines and travelers,” she concluded.

Air Europa Joins easyJet’s Worldwide Platform Through Dohop Partnership

The Dominican airline Arajet continues its expansion plan in the United States and has begun ticket sales for its new route connecting Punta Cana (PUJ) with Miami (MIA) starting June 13, 2025. The operation will include four weekly flights on Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.Scheduled flights are as follows:DM5100 PUJ-MIA: Departure at 09:38 and arrival at 12:25 on Thursdays and Saturdays.DM5100 PUJ-MIA: Departure at 13:01 and arrival at 15:48 on Tuesdays and Fridays.DM5101 MIA-PUJ: Departure at 13:55 and arrival at 16:31 on Thursdays and Saturdays.DM5101 MIA-PUJ: Departure at 17:18 and arrival at 19:54 on Tuesdays and Fridays.This new connection, confirmed by the company, complements Arajet's debut in the U.S. market, scheduled for April 11, 2025, with the Santo Domingo (SDQ) - Miami (MIA) route, which will also have four weekly frequencies.<h3>Expansion Amid Aircraft Delivery Delays</h3>Despite challenges in Boeing's supply chain, Arajet remains committed to its growth plan. The airline currently operates 10 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and is expected to receive five additional units in 2025; however, only three aircraft will be incorporated in March, June, and August, requiring adjustments to its expectations.Even so, the company projects to transport 1.7 million passengers in 2025, positioning itself as one of the busiest airlines in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, it has reaffirmed its commitment to gradually expanding its presence in the United States with new destinations shortly.<h3>Regional Connectivity and Strengthening the Dominican Hub</h3>With this new route, Arajet strengthens its Dominican Republic hub model, enabling connections between North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. From its bases in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, the airline operates 28 routes to 21 international destinations, further consolidating its regional position.Arajet’s growth in the U.S. market represents a strategic step in its expansion plan, aiming to strengthen its presence on high-demand routes and connect the Dominican diaspora with its home country.

Arajet Expands Its Presence in the United States with a New Route to Miami from Punta Cana

United Airlines confirmed today that it plans to resume its flights between Newark and Tel Aviv starting March 15, after suspending them last year due to the intensification of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.Now, according to a statement, the airline can return to Tel Aviv after “detailed assessment of operational considerations for the region and close work with the unions who represent our flight attendants and pilots.”The flights between Newark and Tel Aviv will be operated with Boeing 787-10 aircraft with 318 seats, on a daily frequency, which will be increased to two flights per day starting March 29. The company will continue evaluating opportunities to resume additional flights based on demand trends.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35740" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>“United has a longstanding commitment to serving Tel Aviv, and this return will make United the first U.S. airline to resume service this year,” the statement highlighted.Additionally, the airline emphasized that it offers connections to Tel Aviv through partner airlines, including those of the Lufthansa Group.American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, the other U.S. carriers that operated regular flights to Tel Aviv, have not yet confirmed when they will resume service.

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