Alex Macheras

1 week ago | gulf-times.com | Alex Macheras

The skies over South Asia, among the most strategically significant corridors in international air travel, are once again caught in the crossfire of geopolitics. Amid deadly border clashes between India and Pakistan, a cascade of airspace closures, airport disruptions and hasty re-routings is imposing fresh burdens on airlines, passengers, and global aviation networks already stretched by existing geopolitical no-go zones.

2 weeks ago | gulf-times.com | Alex Macheras

Qatar Airways’ next-generation business class — Qsuite Next Gen — was supposed to make its world debut on the Boeing 777X, the ultra-modern widebody flagship from the American manufacturer that, for years, promised to redefine long-haul travel. But as delays to the 777X programme stretch into their fifth year, Qatar Airways is recalibrating. The launch of Qsuite Next Gen will now likely take place on the Airbus A350-1000, not the 777X.

1 month ago | gulf-times.com | Alex Macheras

Last week, Heathrow Airport — the busiest aviation hub in Europe — came to an extraordinary standstill. An external fire at the North Hyde electrical substation in Hayes, west London, triggered a power outage that crippled airport systems, grounded hundreds of flights, and disrupted global air travel. The event sent shockwaves across the aviation industry and exposed critical vulnerabilities in the infrastructure supporting one of the world’s most important transport gateways.

2 months ago | gulf-times.com | Alex Macheras

Korean Air is set to undergo one of the most significant transformations in its history. In what marks its first major rebranding in over four decades, the airline is rolling out a completely refreshed corporate identity, a new aircraft livery, upgraded lounges, and enhanced in-flight services.

2 months ago | gulf-times.com | Alex Macheras

Airbus has closed 2024 with a solid set of financial results, reinforcing its position as the world’s largest aircraft manufacturer. The European aerospace giant delivered 766 commercial aircraft, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. While this fell slightly short of the 770 aircraft target, it signals continued resilience amid global supply chain pressures. Revenue grew to €69.2bn, up 6% year-on-year, with an adjusted operating profit of €5.35bn.