Airports

Dubai,5th June 2025: Dubai Airports has signed an agreement with Etihad Energy Services Company (Etihad ESCO), a wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), to launch the final phase of its airport-wide lighting retrofit project, a key milestone in its ongoing sustainability agenda and a major step towards energy-efficient operations at both of Dubai’s airports. This newly signed phase will see over 180,000 conventional lighting fixtures replaced with energy-saving alternatives across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), with Concourse A at DXB being the largest single area covered. Combined with the first phase completed earlier and covering 150,000 lighting units at DXB, the project will upgrade more than 330,000 lighting units in total, making it one of the most extensive airport lighting retrofit initiatives in the region. The project is expected to cut annual energy consumption by 47 million kilowatt-hours (kWh), equivalent to powering over 4,300 homes for an entire year, a significant result that highlights the real-world impact of operational sustainability. The initiative will also deliver annual cost savings of more than AED 20 million, contributing to Dubai Airports’ efforts to optimise efficiency while supporting Dubai’s wider environmental targets. HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, said: “Aligned with the UAE’s commitment to climate change resilience and sustainable growth, DEWA is dedicated to supporting Dubai’s journey towards a green economy. This aligns with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. The partnership between Dubai Airports and Etihad ESCO is a prime example of our collective efforts to promote energy efficiency, reduce emissions and advance Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy. Through initiatives like this large-scale retrofit, we are actively building a greener, more resilient future to support our country’s needs and ambitions.” Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “In partnership with Etihad ESCO and DEWA, this project highlights the power of collaboration in achieving measurable sustainability results. Airports are significant energy consumers, and that gives us both the opportunity and the responsibility to lead meaningful change. This lighting project goes beyond efficiency upgrades; it is about embedding sustainability into the core of our day-to-day operations. Every kilowatt-hour saved moves us closer to reducing our environmental impact and building a more resilient future. It sets the benchmark for what a truly sustainable airport can and should achieve.” Dr Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad Energy Services Company, added: “At Etihad ESCO, we are driven by the mission to transform Dubai’s infrastructure as an outstanding example of energy efficiency and sustainability. This final phase of the lighting retrofit project with Dubai Airports is a testament to how strategic partnerships and innovative solutions can deliver measurable impact – from substantial energy savings to a reduced carbon footprint. It reaffirms our shared vision of making Dubai a global leader in sustainable development.” Installation work is scheduled to begin later this year and conclude by H2 2027. This milestone reflects Dubai Airports’ commitment to decarbonising operations through practical, high-impact projects and reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for sustainable aviation infrastructure.

New Delhi, 29th May, 2025: Marking a significant milestone for the aviation sector in Bihar, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the New Terminal building at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, Patna and laid the foundation stone for a New Civil Enclave at Bihta Airport in Patna, Bihar. The development of the New Terminal Building at Patna Airport worth Rs.1200 Crore and the proposed New Civil Enclave at Bihta Airport costing Rs. 1413 Crore, is poised to transform air connectivity in Bihar.These state-of-the-art facilities will enhance passenger experience, drive regional economic growth, and further strengthen the state’s integration with national and global networks. The new terminal building at Patna Airport spanning 65,150 sqm, is designed to handle 3,000 passengers during peak hours and 1 crore passengers annually. It will feature 64 check-in counters, 9 Automatic Tray Retrieval System (ATRS) (Phase-I), 5 aerobridges, and 4 conveyor belts. An apron with 11 aircraft bays (9 Code C and 2 ATR) and a Multilevel Car Parking (MLCP) facility for 1,100 cars. Whereas, the proposed new terminal at Bihta Airport will cover 68,000 sqm, with capacity for 3,000 peak-hour passengers and 50 lakh passengers annually. Facilities include 64 check-in counters, 16 self-check-in kiosks, 10 Automatic Tray Retrieval System (ATRS), 5 aerobridges, and 6 conveyor belts. Supporting infrastructure like MLCP and a service block will complement the terminal. The terminal buildings at both Patna and Bihta airports are designed to reflect Bihar’s rich local art and cultural heritage,while incorporating modern sustainable design features to minimize environmental impact and promote energy conservation. These terminals harmoniously blend tradition with modern eco-conscious design and are expected to drive economic growth by attracting domestic and international businesses, enhancing trade, and generating more employment opportunities in the region.

Mumbai, 28th May 2025: IndiGo and Adani Airport has joined hands and had announced the commencement of commercial flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). IndiGo will operate 18 daily departure flights from NMIA, making it the first airline to commit to operating from NMIA at the start of commercial operations. With 18 daily departures (36 Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) to over 15 cities from day one, with an increase to 79 daily departures (158 ATMs), including 14 international departures by November ’25. This will build up to over 100 daily departures (200 daily ATMs) by March ’26. IndiGo would further scale up operations to 140 daily departures (280 ATMs), including 30 international departures, by November ’26. Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo said,“IndiGo will be the inaugural airline to operate from NMIA and we couldn’t be more pleased to announce this. Our alliance signals towards achievement of complete operational readiness on both sides to take next steps. This expansion underscores our dedication to catering to the evolving needs of our aspirational travellers and further contributing to the growth of India’s booming aviation sector. The new flights from the brand-new NMIA will elevate the travel experience of our customers while enjoying affordable, on-time hassle-free services on our unparalleled network.” Commenting on the partnership, Arun Bansal, CEO, AAHL said, “We are delighted to announce IndiGo as the first airline partner to commence operations from NMIA. This partnership marks a major step towards confirming NMIA’s position as a transfer hub for domestic and international travellers. Together, we are poised to transform travel experience for millions of passengers, providing them both convenience and enhanced travel options. Our collaboration is set to strengthen NMIA’s role as an aviation gateway for the region and for travellers nationally and internationally.” NMIA is set to become India’s premier international aviation hub, offering state-of-the-art facilities, best in class passenger experience and seamless connectivity. In its initial phase, NMIA is set to handle 20 million passengers and 0.5 MMT of cargo per annum, with the capacity to serve 90 million passengers and 3.2 MMT of cargo per annum, once complete. Further, the launch of NMIA will create a dual-airport system for the financial capital of the country, enabling the de-congestion of Mumbai airport and enhancing the overall passenger experience. The augmented capacity offered by both the airports will offer unparalleled economic growth for the Mumbai region, and Maharashtra. This partnership is set to unlock new opportunities, foster collaboration, and strengthen NMIA’s role as a key enabler of India’s aviation future, focussed on meeting the evolving needs of travellers.

SAN FRANCISCO , May 19th, 2025: The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) highlighted the upcoming start of the summer travel season with tips for passengers, information on parking, upcoming facility enhancements, and a program of live music in the terminals. The summer travel season will begin in earnest on Friday, May 23, 2025, with approximately 160,000 forecasted passengers traveling through SFO. In total, 16.2 million travelers are expected at SFO between Memorial Day and Labor Day, an increase of approximately 4% over summer 2024 levels and 93% of pre-pandemic summer levels. SFO recommends travelers allow extra time Passengers traveling during the summer season are strongly encouraged to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to departure for domestic flights and 3 hours prior to departure for international flights. TSA REAL ID requirement Effective May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had mandated all passengers of 18 and older to present a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or other acceptable form of identification at TSA checkpoints nationwide. Travelers who do not meet this requirement should allow extra time for the security screening process. Parking garages expected to be full – book in advance SFO expects parking garages to be at or near capacity during the summer travel season. SFO recommends that travelers take public transit or share rides to the airport. For parking, the Airport recommends travelers book parking early using SFO’s online booking system, which allows users to choose their parking dates and times and enter payment information to complete a booking in advance. New restaurants coming to Harvey Milk Terminal 1 Coming this summer, new restaurants will be opening in Harvey Milk Terminal 1, including Balboa Café, Taste of the City, and SF Eats Food Hall, a five-concession food court. Terminal 3 West Modernization project is underway The $2.6B Terminal 3 West Modernization project will renovate the existing 650,000 square foot western half of Terminal 3, including a seismic retrofit, an expanded security checkpoint and new passenger amenities. The project will also create 200,000 square feet of additional space, allowing for expanded food, beverage, and retail concessions. The expanded section is expected to open in fall 2027. An interim corridor will allow passengers to traverse from various terminals and boarding areas around the project site and will be in use for the next four years. The walkway consists of two sections; the first, 440 feet in length, begins in Terminal 3 near Gate E2 and ends in the existing rotunda food court area in Terminal 3. The second section, 1000 feet long, runs from the food court to an existing post-security walkway to the International G gates. SFO had previously connected all passenger terminals post-security, and this interim corridor continues that connectivity. Experiential series brings San Francisco events to airport travelers SFO’s experiential series that brings San Francisco’s neighborhoods and cultural events directly to airport guests. The “SFO Celebrates” program features live performances, music, demonstrations and arts & crafts.

Kolhapur, 15th May 2025; As a significant moment for Maharashtra’s aviation growth as Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol inaugurated the new ATC Tower cum Technical Block cum Fire Station at Kolhapur Airport, and flagged off the inaugural Star Air flight between Kolhapur and Nagpur. These upgrades aim to enhance air safety, bolster emergency services, and strengthen regional air connectivity across Maharashtra. The Minister expressed deep gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that every region benefits from modern and inclusive aviation infrastructure.

New Delhi, 7th May 2025: As a precautionary step taken against expected retaliation by Pakistan, India has temporary shut down all flight operations from all major airports based near to the border area. These airports includes: Jammu, Pathankot, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Shimla, Dharamshala and Jamnagar, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar and Chandigarh. As per reports, approx 200 flights were cancelled operating from these airports. This step has been taken due to safety concerns citing the missile strikes launched by Indian armed forces in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). Due to this notification all Indian carriers including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, Akasa Air and several foreign carriers called off services to and from affected regions. IndiGo alone cancelled around 165 flights, while a source said that 35 flights to and from Delhi were cancelled between midnight and morning, including 23 domestic departures, eight arrivals, and four international flights. American Airlines and other global carriers also pulled back services. Air India, in a statement, said it had suspended flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until 5.29 am on May 10, following directives from aviation authorities. Affected passengers are being offered a one-time rescheduling waiver or full refunds. SpiceJet confirmed the closure of multiple northern airports — including Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar — “until further notice,” and promised refunds or alternate options. Akasa Air called off all its Srinagar flights, while regional operator Star Air cancelled services to and from Nanded, Hindon, Adampur, Kishangarh, and Bhuj. Air India Express, too, reported several cancellations, particularly to Amritsar, Jammu, Srinagar, and Hindon. “Multiple flights on our network are impacted,” it said, without specifying a resumption timeline. This has also impacted the operations of many international airlines operating in India and also using the Pakistan airspace.

Dubai,30th April 2025: Dubai International (DXB) catered to 23.4 million pax in the first quarter of 2025, maintaining strong momentum and reinforcing its position as the world’s leading international airport. The performance reflects both Dubai’s growing appeal as a global destination and DXB’s continued role as the gateway of choice for millions of travellers. Traffic was up 1.5% compared to the same period in 2024, despite a record-breaking Q1 last year. January alone saw the highest monthly traffic ever recorded at DXB – welcoming 8.5 million guests – an achievement made possible not just by infrastructure, but by the coordinated effort of thousands of people behind the scenes. India retained its position as DXB’s top destination country, with 3 million guests, followed by Saudi Arabia (1.9 million), the UK (1.5 million), Pakistan (1 million), the US (804,000), and Germany (738,000). At the city level, London led with 935,000 guests, followed by Riyadh (759,000), Jeddah (627,000), Mumbai (615,000), and New Delhi (564,000).Leisure travel also surged during the quarter, driven by a seasonal peak at the start of the year, Eid holidays, and spring break, with double-digit increases in traffic to destinations such as the Czech Republic (+30.6%), Vietnam (+28.6%), and Spain (+20.2%). Cargo volumes registered a minor contraction of 3.6% year-on-year during the first quarter, with DXB handling 517,000 tonnes of cargo. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said,“Our Q1 performance sets a strong foundation for the year ahead, not only in terms of guest numbers, but in the calibre of the people behind them.Delivering the busiest month in DXB’s history while maintaining exceptional service levels cross baggage, guest flow, and accessibility is no small feat. It requires precision, agility, and an extraordinary team effort. “What makes this possible is the collective effort of our one DXB community, with each member playing a critical role across every touchpoint. This shared culture of collaboration and consistency is what elevates our performance and ensures we meet the growing expectations of our guests, every single day.” DXB also recorded 111,000 flight movements in Q1,up 1.9% over the same period last year, with an average of 215 guests per flight. Despite the continued growth in guest volumes, DXB sustained high levels of operational efficiency. More than 21 million bags were processed in Q1, with the rate of mishandled baggage reduced to fewer than 1.95 bags per 1,000 guests, translating to a success rate of 99.8%. Meanwhile, the use of real-time monitoring systems and biometric passport control helped ensure that more than 95% of guests experienced minimal wait times across key airport touchpoints.

Singapore, 15th April 2025: Singapore Airlines has planned to renovate its SilverKris and KrisFlyer Gold lounges at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 over the next two years, investing S$45 million to elevate the on-ground customer experience at its main hub. Renovations will begin on 15 April 2025, progressing in phases, with completion expected around mid-2027. The revamped lounges will boast 50% more space and seating capacity, and feature upgraded facilities, signature elements from SIA’s flagship lounges at Changi Airport Terminal 3, and an enhanced variety of food and beverage options. Mr Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Singapore Airlines said: “This significant investment underscores Singapore Airlines’ unwavering commitment to elevating the end-to-end travel experience for our customers. Building on the success of our Terminal 3 lounges, we are extending our signature hospitality and thoughtfully curated offerings to Terminal 2. This upgrade reaffirms our continued dedication to providing a seamless, world-class experience that meets the high expectations of our discerning customers.” The all-new First Class SilverKris Lounge will feature a spacious area with increased capacity, higher ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The renovated bar will offer a premium experience, including barista services in the morning. The live cooking stations in the First Class SilverKris Lounge will serve a wide range of popular Singaporean, Asian, and Western cuisine of dishes, while the self-service buffet will also be expanded to mirror the offerings available at the SilverKris Lounge in Terminal 3. The Business Class SilverKris Lounge will expand by 30%, providing customers with more space and comfort. It will include a quiet rest area with recliners for customers to relax before their flight, and a redesigned living room area with diverse seating options including wingback chairs, sofa seats, and productivity pods. These will give customers the flexibility to work, dine, or rest in comfort. The expanded self-service buffet will feature both Asian and Western cuisines. A new full-service bar will complement the dining experience, serving fresh barista-made coffee in the morning and signature cocktails in the evening. The KrisFlyer Gold Lounge will double its capacity, offering various seating options, such as armchairs for lounging, workstations, and dining seats. New amenities will include in-lounge restrooms and shower suites, enabling customers to freshen up before their flights. To minimise disruption to customers, renovation will be carried out in phases. Construction of the new First Class SilverKris Lounge will begin on 15 April 2025, with expected completion by the fourth quarter of 2025. Construction of the new Business Class SilverKris Lounge is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025, and the new KrisFlyer Gold Lounge in the first half of 2026.

Hisar, 14th April 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a commercial flight from Hisar to Ayodhya and laid the foundation stone of the new terminal building at the Hisar airport, The airport named as Maharaja Agrasen Airport has a new terminal building,built at an estimated cost of over Rs. 410 crore. The new terminal building will include a State-of-the-art passenger terminal, a cargo terminal and an ATC building. The project is targeted to be completed in two years.The inaugural flight from Hisar to Ayodhya will operate twice a week, and three flights in a week to Jammu, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Chandigarh.

Warsaw, 9th April 2025: LOT Polish Airlines has unveiled the newly renovated Polonez Business Lounge at Warsaw Chopin Airport which is now available to authorized passengers, departing from Warsaw. With this comprehensive transformation, LOT elevates its service standards, offering greater comfort tailored to the needs of all travellers. Whether passengers seek a place to rest, unwind, or work efficiently, the lounge provides an ideal setting before the next stage of their journey. The refurbishment aligns with the national carrier’s strategic goals for 2024–2028. Elegance, Style, and More Space The LOT Business Lounge Polonez impresses with its elegance, functionality and amenities, designed with the needs of modern travellers in mind. The space features a contemporary design and offers comfortable armchairs and sofas, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The colour scheme – deep navy blue, copper tones and amber – reflects LOT Polish Airlines’ visual identity, aligning with the Dreamliner cabin retrofit project and the newly opened LOT Business Lounge in Chicago. ‘We aimed to create a space that not only meets the highest standards of comfort but also redefines the travel experience for passengers who value modernity, exclusivity and a premium atmosphere. The LOT Business Lounge Polonez now combines elegance with functionality – offering more space, innovative solutions and carefully selected amenities that enable both relaxation and productivity. We wanted every guest to feel special and experience Polish hospitality at the very heart of our connecting hub, Warsaw Chopin Airport. We are delighted to welcome guests to our LOT Business Lounge Polonez’, said Izabela Leszczyńska, Director of Product Development and Customer Experience at LOT Polish Airlines. A major advantage of the redesigned interior is the expanded usable space – the Polonez Lounge now offers over 860 m² for guests, following a 153 m² expansion. As a result, the LOT Polish Airlines lounge offers more than 60 additional seats. New features in the expanded section include a self-service bar and a conference room, equipped with a screen and electrical outlets. The interior of the Polonez also features comfortable sofas, from which passengers have an unusual view of the terminal and the airport apron. The entire facility has been equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, and electrical outlets and USB ports are available in designated areas, providing convenient conditions for both work and rest. Special attention should also be given to the separate area of the lounge, formerly known as Elite, which has been enlarged and from now on operates as the Polonez Gold Lounge. Designed for the most demanding guests, offers a dedicated relaxation zone featuring comfortable loungers with optional partitions to ensure privacy and comfort. Relax Spot by Phenomé x LOT LOT Polish Airlines is expanding its range of luxury lounge amenities by introducing a new SPA zone with an enhanced service package under a new name. Relax Spot by Phenomé x LOT is a unique relaxation space where passengers can enjoy premium skincare treatments. The beauty salon is a rare service available in only a handful of business lounges worldwide, making LOT Business Lounge Polonez truly stand out. Relax Spot by Phenomé x LOT was created in collaboration with the Polish cosmetics brand Phenomé, whose products are also available on-board Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Regardless of the purpose of travel, proper skincare is an essential part of well-being, and the new SPA zone will allow passengers to unwind and rejuvenate before the next stage of their journey. The beauty salon services will be available to all guests of the Polonez Business Lounge starting from the first half of May 2025, from Monday to Friday. Access and Entry Rules The LOT Business Lounge Polonez is located in the Schengen area of Warsaw Chopin Airport and is open daily from 5 am to 11 pm local time. Complimentary access is available to: • Business Class passengers on flights operated by Star Alliance member airlines, • Business Class passengers transferring to domestic flights, • Passengers travelling on LOT Business Class charter flights who hold a Senator or SA Gold card, • Miles & More cardholders: o HON Circle members travelling on a flight operated by a Star Alliance carrier, o Senator/Star Alliance GOLD members travelling on a flight operated by a Star Alliance carrier, o Frequent Traveller members travelling on a flight operated by LOT, Lufthansa (LH), Austrian Airlines (OS), Brussels Airlines (SN), SWISS (LX) or Croatia Airlines (OU). Other LOT Polish Airlines passengers: LOT Business Class on charter flights, LOT Premium Economy Class on mid- and long-haul and charter flights, and LOT Economy Class passengers on short- and mid-haul flights can purchase entry to the Polonez business lounge at lot.com, through sales agents, the Contact Centre, or at Warsaw Chopin Airport.