Jeddah-based Flyadeal launched seven years ago as a digital-only airline selling tickets via its website, though it has since also connected into online travel agents via direct connect channels.

Speaking on the sidelines of the IATA Aviation Day Middle East North Africa event in Jeddah, Flyadeal chief commercial officer Rogier Van Enk said the carrier is looking at working much more with aggregators, including the traditional GDSs. “We have active conversations now with the GDSs to see whether we want to be on their platform,” he said.

Van Enk says one of the reasons behind the move is to help power its international growth. Flyadeal is expanding rapidly and has plans to triple its 38-strong Airbus A320 fleet to more than 100 aircraft by 2030, including delivery of its first A321neos next year. Having built its presence in the Saudi domestic market, much of this growth will be on international routes.

“Our brand awareness in the Kingdom [of Saudi Arabia] is 95%-plus, so people know who we are. But when you go [international] not everyone knows us. So, you want to be on the shelf,” says van Enk.

The move also aims to help Flyadeal further tap into corporate travellers.

 “We see a lot of corporates already on our flights. But we want to make it easier for corporates to find us, particularly those where employees must book through a travel agency of the company,” he says.  “If we are not on those shelves, then we are going to be missing out on that demand.”

Van Enk joined Flyadeal earlier this year from Finnair, having previously headed up distribution for both the Finnish carrier and British Airways, and he points to a higher dependency on travel agents in the Middle East region.

“Trade are very important partners of airlines in the region,” he says. Flyadeal’s engagement with the travel trade has been further enabled by its recent membership of IATA and payment processing through the association’s Billing Settlement Plan.

“We have a strategy where we try to get the customer in, and once they are flying us, we are laser-focused on keeping them within our ecosystem,” he adds. “But we have a multi-channel distribution strategy. [And] we are going to do it in an LCC way.”

Van Enk says the airline will not “reinvent the wheel” and will look at existing examples where LCCs connect to a GDS. “We will probably find our own version of that,” he says.  “The main goal here is to get the lowest fares to our customers. But we also want to be on the shelves where customers can find us.”

The breach temporarily disrupted access to the airline’s website, mobile application, and several internal operational systems, prompting swift response measures to mitigate its effects.

SAA immediately activated its disaster management and business continuity protocols upon detection of the incident. These actions successfully contained the incident and minimised disruption to core flight operations. They also ensured the continued functionality of essential customer service channels, such as the airline's contact centres and sales offices. Normal system functionality across all affected platforms was restored later the same day.

SAA said it has undertaken all reasonable and lawful steps as a National Key Point, including formally reporting the incident to the State Security Agency (SSA), South African Police Service (SAPS) for criminal investigation and notifying the Information Regulator of South Africa as a precautionary measure under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

Prof. John Lamola, Group CEO of South African Airways, said: "The security and integrity of our business systems and the protection of the consumer data entrusted to us remain our highest priority. In response to the cyber incident that began on May 3rd, we acted swiftly to contain the disruption, restore services, and initiate a comprehensive investigation. Our robust business continuity measures ensured operational stability, particularly for our valued customers. I want to assure all stakeholders, including our partners, customers, and dedicated employees, that we are taking every necessary step to determine the root cause of this incident, strengthen our security framework, and mitigate any potential risks. SAA remains committed to delivering safe, reliable, and resilient service."

The multi-year contract covers the installation of HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX Model-S computed tomography scanners in Terminals 1, 2, and 3, aiming to enhance security, operational efficiency, and passenger flow.

These cutting-edge scanners offer high-resolution 3D imaging and allow passengers to keep electronics and liquids in their bags during screening, significantly improving processing time and convenience. Certified by international regulatory bodies such as TSA and ECAC, the systems are equipped with iCMORE automatic object recognition software, in addition to smart lane management and automated tray return systems.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, said: "Dubai continues to lead the world in aviation excellence by investing in the latest security screening technologies. This project strengthens passenger safety, enhances the travel experience, and reinforces Dubai’s reputation as a global aviation hub."

His Excellency Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, remarked: "Selecting Smiths Detection reflects our commitment to smart infrastructure integration across our airports. It is an investment in operational efficiency and the safety of millions of travellers as we build the airports of the future."

Her Excellency Suzanne Al Anani, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, added: "We are dedicated to developing secure and intelligent airport infrastructure that meets future demands. This project exemplifies our proactive approach to enabling safe, seamless, and high-capacity travel through the integration of smart, advanced technologies."

The Managing Director of Smiths Detection Middle East, Tom Squier added: "We are honoured to collaborate with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects to help secure one of the world’s busiest airports. Our advanced screening solutions will enhance detection efficiency and support Dubai’s vision for safe and smart air travel."

By leveraging TCS’ expertise in agentic AI and platform engineering, Jazeera Airways aims to unlock new revenue streams, enhance its digital channels, and deliver hyper-personalised customer experiences, positioning itself at the forefront of innovation and customer-centric transformation in the aviation sector.

As it completes 20 years of its operations, Jazeera Airways is embarking on the next phase of its growth by reimaging its digital ecosystem. TCS will lead this transformation by modernising the airline’s website, native mobile applications, and AI-powered conversational chatbot. Leveraging its AI-native approach, TCS will deliver the program end-to-end, bringing its capabilities in product management, user experience design, architecture, agile development, integration, testing, and ongoing enhancements to reimagine how passengers interact with the airline at every stage of their journey.

Barathan Pasupathi, chief executive officer, Jazeera Airways, said, “Jazeera Airways is laying the foundation for a new era of transformation with strategic focus on enhancing passenger experience. At the heart of our vision is a seamless, customer-centric travel experience. We are pleased to partner with TCS as we embark on this phase of our digital growth. TCS brings deep domain expertise in airline digital commerce, AI-driven solutions, combined with a strong track record of delivering customer-centric solutions. Together, we are building a future-ready platform that aligns with our growth aspirations, customer centric strategy, and commitment to operational excellence.”

This marks the culmination of a contract valued at 15 million euros, awarded to Indra for the renewal of air traffic navigation systems.

Within a project timeframe of less than 24 months, Indra has delivered and installed its state-of-the-art Normarc instrument landing systems (ILS) and distance measuring equipment (DME) in 17 airports across 12 countries operated by ASECNA. The project included end-to-end delivery of 12 DMEs, 18 localisers and 14 glide paths.

During the project, Indra provided comprehensive technical training to nearly 100 technicians and engineers from ASECNA’s Air Traffic Safety Electronic Personnel (ATSEP).

“This project represents a strategic investment for ASECNA. It underscores our steadfast commitment to modernising our infrastructure and ensuring safe, efficient air operations across our vast airspace. We will continue to work closely with trusted technological partners to ensure the safety and efficiency of our air operations”, according to the Director General of ASECNA Prosper ZO’O MINTO’O. 

“This is one of our largest and most complex air navigation projects ever, and we managed to deliver ahead of schedule. ASECNA and Indra share the same commitment to enhancing flight safety and efficiency, and it has been a true pleasure to work with ASECNA on this project,” said Enrique Castillo, ATM Business Development Director at Indra.

GACA President, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, praised the ‘remarkable progress’ achieved by Saudi Vision 2030 over the past nine years and the realisation of 93% of its targets.

He noted that the civil aviation sector has witnessed significant transformations in the course of Vision 2030, thanks to the unwavering support of the wise leadership, enabling the Kingdom to firmly establish itself as a global aviation hub with a competitive regional and international position.

The President further stated that overall achievement of the Vision’s indicators and initiatives has reached 100%, with Saudi Arabia now ranking 17th globally in the Air Connectivity Index as per the International Air Transport Association (IATA), surpassing the 2024 target by two ranks.

“2024 marked a pivotal milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey of achievement, with the number of passengers traveling through Saudi airports exceeding 128 million, the number of flights surpassing 905,000, and air cargo volumes exceeding 1.2 million tons. Additionally, Saudi airports and national carriers secured leading positions across multiple international indicators and rankings,” he said.

Al-Duailej explained that the "Localisation of Aviation Jobs" initiative also demonstrated an outstanding performance in 2024, with the employment of 14,317 Saudi men and women—representing 124% of the total target of 11,500 jobs by the end of 2025. The focus remained on specialised, qualitative, and leadership positions across airports, airlines, and ground services. He also highlighted the sector’s notable progress in female empowerment, with the representation of women in leadership positions rising to 17%.

The President highlighted GACA’s launching of a trial air taxi service during the 1445 AH Hajj season, granting of licenses for various innovative aviation technologies, opening of new passenger terminals, and expansion of several regional airports, all in line with Saudi Arabia's adoption of future-oriented solutions and promotion of sustainability in the aviation sector.

“The Kingdom’s civil aviation sector has witnessed substantial progress since the inauguration of the National Aviation Strategy,” added Al-Duailej.

“This includes the privatisation of airports and their transfer to the Airports Holding Company; the unveiling of master plans for King Salman International Airport and the new Abha International Airport; the initiation of the Integrated Logistics Zone in Riyadh (the Kingdom’s first special integrated logistics zone); the second phase of the expansion project at Medinah’s Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport; the opening of Terminal 1 at both Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport and Taif International Airport; and the expansion and development of terminals at Qassim International Airport, Al-Ahsa International Airport, NEOM Bay Airport, Red Sea International Airport, Arar International Airport, and Al Qaisumah International Airport."

Other recent developments include the launching of Riyadh Air and the signing of purchase agreements for 548 aircraft to date.

The programme introduces an innovative digital platform that simplifies corporate travel management while providing customised benefits based on each organisation's specific requirements. Features include a comprehensive travel management portal, streamlined booking processes, and dedicated support options.

"Today's business environment demands travel solutions that are both efficient and adaptable," said Javier Alija, Vice President Global Sales & Distribution at Etihad Airways. "This new programme demonstrates our commitment to supporting our corporate partners with solutions that meet their evolving needs."

The programme offers businesses a range of benefits that expand with their travel volume, including special corporate rates, priority services, and enhanced booking flexibility. For larger organisations, the programme includes additional features such as dedicated account management and customised travel solutions.

"Our focus has been on creating a programme that delivers real value to businesses of all sizes," Javier Alija added. "Whether it's a growing enterprise or an established multinational, we've designed our offerings to support their success."

Jazeera will be the first airline in the Middle East to introduce these two fintech products. Slated to launch this year on the Jazeera Airways’ mobile app and desktop channels, CFAR and DAFAR will offer a new level of flexibility and confidence for travellers.

Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) from HTS offers a la carte flexibility on non-refundable fares, truly for any reason. It allows travelers to instantly cancel their flight up to 24 hours before departure and receive a predetermined percentage (typically 80% or 100%) of their ticket cost back — no questions asked.

Disruption Assistance For Any Reason (DAFAR) is a novel travel fintech product that addresses customer concerns around delays and cancellations on the day of travel. If a traveler’s flight experiences a qualifying disruption (typically a delay of 2+ hours or cancellation on the day of travel), the passenger is immediately notified and can rebook a new flight to their destination on any airline. If they're not satisfied with their options, they can receive a 100% refund of their flight.

Barathan Pasupathi, chief executive officer, Jazeera Airways said: "At Jazeera Airways, our focus is on delivering innovative and customer-centric solutions that enhance the travel experience. Unexpected travel disruption and flexibility are key considerations for our passengers, and HTS’ proven, data-driven approach enables us to address these needs effectively. With HTS’s seamless integration and experience, we can further elevate convenience and reliability for our customers."

This marks HTS’ first partner in the Middle East, as the company continues to sign and launch partnerships across the globe.

“By offering premium add-ons that are popular and profitable, airlines can simultaneously delight customers and increase ancillary revenue,” said Dakota Smith, President & Co-Founder of Hopper. "As we continue to expand globally, we are thrilled to partner with Jazeera Airways to offer these solutions to millions of customers in the Middle East.”

Microsoft has praised the airline's AI transformation, calling it a "prime example" of how technology drives strategic value. The integration of AI-powered solutions doubled customer satisfaction with Pegasus’ FlyBot virtual assistant as well as boosting employee satisfaction by 20% for the human resources virtual assistant. 

Ümit Şener, Data and Artificial Intelligence Specialist at Microsoft, said: “Our AI transformation project with Pegasus Airlines is a prime example of how technology drives strategic value in business processes. By implementing one of the best AI use cases both in Türkiye and globally, Pegasus has established a pioneering position in the aviation industry. As Microsoft, we are proud to be part of this transformative journey.” 

The success includes enhancements like real-time customer support through FlyBot and personalised travel recommendations via ChatGPT, along with AI-powered solutions improving employee workflows.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, chief executive officer at Flydubai, said: “We are pleased to have been recognised once again at this year’s Business Traveller Middle East Awards. These achievements are a testament to our strong business model and highlight the progress we’ve made in expanding our network and fostering stronger connectivity with the markets we serve from our home. Supporting Dubai’s vision as a global aviation hub has always been at the heart of what we do, and we remain dedicated to opening up new opportunities for trade and tourism across our growing network.”