The record certificate was presented at Santiago Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport following Turkish Airlines’ inaugural flight to Chile. The ceremony was attended by Turkish Airlines executives and Guinness World Records officials.

Based on Guinness World Records evaluation criteria, Turkish Airlines set the record with flights to 120 countries, reflecting only the active routes of the past 12 months. Nevertheless, including temporarily suspended routes and today’s inaugural flight to Chile, Turkish Airlines' flight network now spans 131 countries.

Commenting on the record, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi said: “We are delighted to be in Santiago, Chile, our newest route launched today, and to receive the Guinness World Records title for the Most Countries Flown to by an Airline. As the only airline to hold this distinction for over a decade, we proudly showcase the strength of our flight network and reinforce our mission to connect people, cultures, and destinations around the globe.”

“The fastest-growing segments of air cargo are pharmaceuticals, perishables, electronics, and high-value goods. Shippers rely on various battery-powered electronic devices to monitor these sensitive shipments to ensure their integrity. The IATA Air Cargo Device Assessment will confirm that these devices comply with strict industry safety standards,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo.

The IATA Air Cargo Device Assessment validates compliance with IATA's Recommended Practice 1693, which provides critical safety guidance for electromagnetic compatibility and battery safety. Validation data will be accessible via ONE Source which provides a single access point to stakeholders searching for approved tracking devices.

First Assessment to THE BOX

THE BOX, a reusable packing solution by LivingPackets, is the first product validated by the Air Cargo Device Assessment program. 

"IATA validation is crucial for THE BOX because our customers want to know that our product complies with global standards. Having IATA validate compliance with its strict safety standards makes our product universally acceptable for use across the air cargo industry. That is particularly important for an innovation like THE BOX as it is the first Smart, Secure & Sustainable, S3 Shipping packing for use in air cargo. The Air Cargo Device Assessment gives it instant global recognition”, said Denis Mourrain, LivingPackets COO.

Benefits across the Supply Chain 

The IATA Air Cargo Device Assessment offers significant benefits across the air cargo industry. For device manufacturers, it streamlines the validation process by eliminating repetitive documentation requirements, facilitates easier access to airline contacts for device authorisation, and enhances visibility in the global market. Airlines benefit from safer operations with fewer undeclared devices, simplified internal approval processes, and a consolidated repository of approved devices. Shippers and forwarders gain centralised access to approved device information, enabling better planning for routing and carrier selection. And the overall success of the program will make for more effective delivery of time and temperature sensitive shipments, reducing waste and preserving the integrity of shipments.

Under the terms of the agreement, Pegasus has placed a firm order for the first 100 Boeing 737-10 aircraft for delivery from 2028, with 100 additional purchasing options, which can be converted into firm orders in the future. The total value of the contract for 200 Boeing 737-10 aircraft is approximately 36 billion USD, based on Boeing's publicly announced current list prices. 

Güliz Öztürk, CEO of Pegasus Airlines, said: "As a leading stakeholder in our country’s tourism sector, which creates net cash inflows and the highest added value for our country, and has shown record-breaking growth after the pandemic; we are working tirelessly to reach new record-highs and do our part for Türkiye to achieve the targeted 100 million visitors and 100 billion USD in revenue in tourism. We continue to invest in our fleet in line with our growth targets in Türkiye and globally, and to expand our network by launching new routes. Currently, with an average age of 4.5 years, we have the youngest fleet in Türkiye and rank among the airlines with the youngest fleets in the world. Within the scope of our agreement with Boeing, we have ordered a total of 200 Boeing 737-10 aircraft. The first 100 aircraft, for which we have placed firm orders, will begin joining our fleet starting in 2028. We will evaluate converting the remaining 100 aircraft options into firm orders in the coming years, based on market conditions and the needs of our fleet. Boeing aircraft have been an integral part of our operations since Pegasus entered the aviation industry in 1990.”

She added: “We are pleased to be expanding our fleet with the new Boeing 737-10 model aircraft. We are confident that our collaboration will create new opportunities for local manufacturing, technology transfer, R&D, training, and employment in the Turkish aviation industry.  When considered within the scope of Boeing’s National Aerospace Initiative launched with the Turkish government in 2017, our order will also open new doors and create production and export opportunities both for Turkish manufacturers and for the wider aviation industry.”

With Santiago as its 26th destination in the Americas, this new route holds significant importance, as it increases the number of countries in the flag carrier’s network in the region to 10 and the world to 131.

Starting today, Turkish Airlines will operate four weekly flights from Istanbul to Santiago via São Paulo. This new route further reaffirms the flag carrier’s commitment to boost its presence in the Americas.

Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi said: “As the airline flying to more countries than any other in the world, we continue to connect continents and cultures. The launch of our Santiago flights once again underscores our commitment to offering travellers unparalleled connectivity options. These flights will not only contribute to trade and tourism but also enhance cultural interaction between the two nations. We look forward to welcoming passengers onboard to experience our signature services and our world-renowned Turkish hospitality while discovering the captivating beauty of Chile, Türkiye and beyond.”

The service, which launches on 7 January 2025, will operate one weekly flight, offering more than an additional 100 tonnes of cargo capacity to the market. Paris will become the 12th destination in Etihad Cargo's freighter network.

Operating via Abu Dhabi, the new freighter service will provide seamless main deck capacity connections to Ezhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Hanoi and Zhengzhou. The service will also integrate with an extensive road feeder trucking network within China, enabling broader market access. Additionally, customers will benefit from same-day connectivity across Etihad Cargo's widebody and narrowbody network, ensuring swift and reliable delivery for time-sensitive shipments. 

The new Paris freighter route will support Etihad Cargo's specialised products, meeting growing demand across multiple industries. It will provide more capacity for general cargo to destinations like Riyadh, Jakarta, and Manila, secure transport for pharmaceuticals under PharmaLife to Mumbai, Jakarta, Seoul and Sydney, and improved access for perishables through FreshForward to Kuala Lumpur, Dubai and Sharjah. The route will also facilitate efficient solutions for live animal shipments with LiveAnimals and SkyStables, automotive shipments with FlightValet and cultural cargo with FlyCulture, offering reliable and flexible services tailored to diverse customer needs. 

Stanislas Brun, vice president of cargo at Etihad Cargo, commented: "Adding Paris to Etihad Cargo's freighter network is a strategic milestone. This route expands Etihad Cargo's European footprint and also supports the growing demand for Etihad Cargo's specialised products across sectors, including pharmaceuticals and perishables. With the launch of the Paris service, Etihad Cargo continues to deliver tailored solutions and strengthen connectivity for partners and customers worldwide."

The DRC government will hold a 51% majority stake, while Ethiopian Airlines will retain 49% share, and manage the airline.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said: “The launch of Air Congo is a significant step in our strategic plan to collaborate with African governments and enhance air transport across the continent. This partnership will provide greater connectivity for the DRC and Central Africa, facilitating investment, trade, and tourism, thereby contributing to socio-economic growth of the region. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the DRC government, all stakeholders, and my esteemed colleagues for their commitment and collaboration in making this partnership a success.”

Air Congo’s operations began with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, serving domestic markets, starting with seven airports within the DRC. Key technical agreements, including aircraft lease, comprehensive technical support, and systems support agreements have been signed between the two partners. Ethiopian Airlines will also train Congolese nationals as pilots, cabin crew, sales and services staff, and technicians.

This comes after operating more than 16,300 flights and marks the third time, following its first-place rankings in June and July of 2024. This accomplishment reiterates the integration and efficiency of Saudia’s operations.

flyadeal, one of the fastest-growing low-cost carriers in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, achieved a remarkable on-time performance (OTP) of 90.48 percent, securing the second position in the global low-cost airline category for the second consecutive month. Notably, flyadeal was ranked first in this category in September 2024.

His Excellency Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of Saudia Group, said: “These outstanding results underscore the strategic importance of safe and timely operations, which significantly enhance customer confidence across our entire group. Saudia and flyadeal's commitment to operational excellence is a testament to the collective efforts of our dedicated front-line staff and the invaluable support from all Saudia Group business units.”

He added: “Saudia’s comprehensive transformation program, "Shine" has been instrumental in achieving this accomplishment. Through the program, we launch initiatives aimed at enhancing guest experience and operational efficiency, as well as improving various services and products."

Jeremy Bowen, Cirium chief executive officer added: “It’s fantastic to see Saudia take the top spot as the most on-time global airline in November, paired with sister carrier flyadeal which secured an impressive second place in the LCC category. These achievements really demonstrate the exceptional operational success of the Saudia Group. Their ongoing dedication to excellence and ability to deliver outstanding results month after month is truly commendable. They continue to set high standards and reinforce their significant impact on the airline industry.”

The service, set to commence in December 2025, will operate via Melbourne, linking Canberra to the airline’s Doha hub at Hamad International Airport.

The Canberra flights will be operated by Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft.

This announcement marks Qatar Airways’ return to Canberra after a hiatus that began during the global pandemic. The resumption of service is a significant milestone, reconnecting the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and surrounding regions to one of the world’s most expansive international networks.

The move aligns with Qatar Airways’ broader push to strengthen its presence in Australia, highlighted by its deepening partnership with Virgin Australia. The two airlines are collaborating to deliver enhanced connectivity and competition, with Virgin Australia offering new flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth to over 100 destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa via Qatar Airways’ extensive network.

Pending final regulatory approvals, this partnership is poised to reshape international travel options for Australians, offering better connectivity, more choice, and competitive pricing.

Qatar Airways announced plans to buy a 25% minority stake in Virgin Australia from its owner, US private equity firm Bain Capital, in October.

The two airlines have already had a strong relationship as codeshare partners since 2022.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: “We are delighted to be able to serve Canberra once again. The nation’s capital, the political heart of Australia, rightly expects to be served by a range of international airlines, and I am proud that we are able to play our part in that.

“Whether travelling for business, government services or leisure, our commitment to Australia, and to Canberra, is one that we know will bring much needed healthy competition to the market and greater choice for passengers.” 

Canberra Airport CEO, Stephen Byron, said: “The return of Qatar Airways marks an exciting and pivotal moment for Canberra and our surrounding regions.

“This service not only provides over a million residents access to a global network spanning more than 170 destinations but also invites the world to rediscover Canberra’s unique cultural, educational, and tourism offerings.”

The inaugural flight marked a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between the two countries, offering travellers a convenient and affordable way to experience the beauty of Langkawi.

Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, said: “We are delighted to expand our network into Malaysia with the launch of direct flights from Bengaluru to Langkawi. This would be our second destination in Malaysia, in addition to Kuala Lumpur. Langkawi is one of the most popular destinations in Malaysia with its pristine beaches and lush rainforests, and the country's recent visa waiver for Indian citizens is bound to create greater demand and easy access. IndiGo remains committed to delivering an affordable, timely, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience across our expansive network.”

IndiGo recently expanded its international flight network from Bengaluru, introducing direct flights to exciting new destinations such as Mauritius and Bali. Additionally, IndiGo also resumed its operations between Bengaluru and Kuala Lumpur with daily flights starting December 15, 2024. These additions not only strengthen connectivity from the city but also position Bengaluru as a burgeoning international hub. IndiGo provides seamless direct connections from Bengaluru to a host of domestic destinations like Amritsar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, and Kolkata, as well as numerous tier 2 and tier 3 cities across India. IndiGo also links Bengaluru with an array of international destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Colombo, and Doha, further broadening our global reach.

The carrier’s dedicated lounge opened its doors earlier today to welcome Business Class passengers.

The modern 900-square-metre Business Class Lounge can accommodate more than 200 passengers. The lounge is located after the passport control and security lanes at Dubai International’s Terminal 2 Departure area. The boarding gate for Business Class passengers is located in the lounge where passengers can board the dedicated Business Class buses for their flights. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Hamad Obaidalla, chief commercial officer said at the opening: “This year, flydubai is celebrating a milestone in its journey marking 15 years of operations. We remain committed to constantly evolving and investing in enhancing customer experience whether in the air or on the ground. The new lounge will provide an enjoyable and seamless travel experience for our Business Class passengers from Terminal 2 in Dubai. We would like to thank the airport authorities for their support to officially welcome customers to the new beautifully designed space.”