Mercato Mall Presents Unfolding in Blue — A Moving Tribute to Inclusion, Creativity, and Sensory Art

An Inspiring Collaboration with Mawaheb Art Studio Celebrating People of Determination A wave of creativity, emotion, and human connection has arrived at Mercato Shopping Mall with the launch of Unfolding in Blue — a powerful sensory art exhibition running from 7th to 13th May 2026 in collaboration with Mawaheb Art Studio, the celebrated creative hub dedicated to empowering People of Determination through artistic expression and inclusion. More than a traditional exhibition, Unfolding in Blue invites visitors into an immersive multi-sensory experience inspired by the many emotional layers and symbolic beauty of the color blue. Through a striking collection of artworks created by Mawaheb’s talented artists, the exhibition explores themes of identity, accessibility, emotion, and belonging — encouraging visitors to ......read full article

International museum day at al maqta'a museum ( 18 may 2026)

On this occasion, Al Maqta’a Museum invites university students to take part in a unique experience exploring career opportunities in the cultural sector, where participants will spend a day experiencing the museum from within, discovering how it operates, and gaining hands-on practical experience. Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM  Location: Al Maqta’a Museum For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/international-museum-day  INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY AT DELMA MUSEUM (18 May 2026)  On International Museum Day, Delma Museum is organising the event “Cultural Pathway to the Future”, which focuses on reactivating the Young Tour Guides programme. During the event, participants will be trained inside the museum, where they will lead visitor tours and take part ......read full article

Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi celebrates International Museum Day with Free entry and hands-on experiences for all ages

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 12th May 2026: Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will celebrate International Museum Day with free entry for all visitors from 16 to 18 May, alongside a curated programme of interactive experiences for visitors of all ages, reinforcing its role as a space for learning and discovery that connect visitors with science in accessible and meaningful ways. On 16 and 17 May, visitors can join drop-in workshops that explore light, creativity, and scientific discovery. These include Sun Printing, Light Lab: Colour & Shadow, and Constellation Light Lab, which introduce participants to the behaviour of light through hands-on experiments. The programme also features Shadow Safari and the Wiggly Creatures Workshop, which blend storytelling, performance, and creativity to help younger visitors see science in everyday ......read full article

Etihad Airways Announces Special Offers to Exciting Destinations

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, today announced a limited-time global sale with exceptional fares to over 40 destinations across its global network, giving travellers more reasons to reconnect with loved ones, explore new cities, and return to their favorite places. Guests can enjoy up to 30% off Economy fares from Abu Dhabi to exciting destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, including on its seasonal services to Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Mykonos and Santorini. The sale is valid until 14 May 2026 for travel between 1 June and 15 October 2026. Guests traveling with Etihad can look forward to award‑winning service, carefully curated inflight dining, and a range of entertainment options. Palma de Mallorca (PMI) is the vibrant capital of Spain's Balearic Islands, known ......read full article

Etihad Strengthens UAE Supply Chains and Cargo Capability Through New National Partnerships at Make it in the Emirates 2026

Agreements with MoIAT, Khalifa Fund and EDGE strengthen UAE cargo capability, local procurement and SME participation Etihad directed AED 8.3 billion to ICV-certified suppliers in FY2025 Airline continues expanding its role in UAE trade, logistics and industrial growth  Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Airways signed three strategic agreements at Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026 this week, expanding its role in UAE trade, cargo logistics and industrial growth through partnerships focused on supply chains, local procurement and SME development. Etihad generates AED 29 billion in annual service export revenue through its global operations and drives more than AED 130 billion in economic impact across tourism, trade, supply chain and employment in the UAE. With more than 13,000 UAE-based employees and a global ......read full article

Abu Dhabi Airports welcomes first direct cargo link to Northern Thailand with K-Mile Air as freighter network hits 36 destinations

Cargo airline starts five weekly flights to Chiang Mai (CNX) and Chiang Rai (CEI) First northern Thailand air cargo link grows AUH's freight network to 36 destinations Daily cargo volume grows 18% in most recent 7-day period compared to beginning of the year Daily freighter cargo volume at AUH grows 119% vs baseline levels Abu Dhabi, UAE, 7 May 2026: Abu Dhabi Airports has welcomed Thailand-based all-cargo carrier K-Mile Air to Zayed International Airport (AUH) following the commencement of freighter operations from 4 May. The airline will operate five weekly services using a Boeing 767 freighter to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), opening the first direct air cargo links between Abu Dhabi and northern Thailand and further expanding AUH's global ......read full article

Kids Go & Eat for Free at Emirates Park Zoo & Resort

An unforgettable family day out filled with wildlife adventures, interactive experiences, and great food! Abu Dhabi – May 7, 2026: Emirates Park Zoo & Resort has launched a limited-time family offer, Kids Go & Eat for Free, giving families more value and comfort during their visit. With every adult Explorer Plus ticket, one child receives free zoo entry, a free kid’s meal, and unlimited access to animal presentations, including the Sea Lion Presentation, Elephant Encounter, and Animal Wonders. Families can enjoy a full day out across partially air-conditioned indoor facilities and plenty of shaded outdoor spaces, making the experience more comfortable while exploring animals such as lions, leopards, elephants, and more. The offer is available for a limited time before Eid and may be extended based on ......read full article

EDGE Signs Global Air Carrier Services Agreement with Etihad Airways

Abu Dhabi, UAE: 5 May 2026 – EDGE has signed a Global Air Carrier Services Agreement with Etihad Airways at Make it in the Emirates (MIITE 2026), consolidating its airfreight operations under the UAE's national carrier. Under the agreement, EDGE will procure airfreight services through Etihad Airways' cargo operations for shipments on behalf of itself and its growing portfolio of 35 entities. The agreement is part of EDGE's broader strategy to prioritise local partnerships across its supply chain and operations, ensuring that as the organisation grows, it continues to invest in and rely on the UAE's own world-class institutions and capabilities. Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE Group, said: "This agreement reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful local partnerships that ......read full article

5 fun things to do in Abu Dhabi this International Family Day

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 4 May 2026: International Family Day on 15 May offers a wonderful excuse to step away from the everyday and create memories as a family. Abu Dhabi has a diverse range of activities and experiences for all ages, whether seeking thrilling adventures, a more relaxed pace or a blend of both.   From exhilarating rides at Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to peaceful strolls along the Corniche and enriching cultural experiences at Saadiyat Cultural District, every family can find something to enjoy. This Family Day, we've rounded up five ways to spend the day in Abu Dhabi: Explore marine life at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, located on Yas Island, is the world's largest indoor marine life theme park, spanning eight themed worlds across five floors. Featuring over 100 ......read full article

Etihad at Make it in the Emirates 2026: exporting UAE services, enabling trade and driving economic growth

Etihad generates AED 29 billion in annual service export revenue, contributing directly to the UAE economy   Airline drives over AED 130 billion in total economic impact across tourism, trade, supply chain and employment   Etihad Cargo showcases its role enabling UAE trade, handling AED 120 billion in goods in 2025 Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways will showcase its role as one of the UAE's largest global exporters of services and a key driver of national economic growth at Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026, the country's largest industrial trade platform, taking place from 4 to 7 May at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Etihad generates more than AED 29 billion in annual revenue through the export of aviation and logistics services to global markets, directly contributing to the UAE ......read full article

Make it in the Emirates 2026: A Record-Breaking Fifth Edition Backed by Key Partners and Sponsors

Abu Dhabi May 04, 2026: The fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates, the UAE's premier industrial platform, is set to be the largest and most impactful in its history. Hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), ADNOC, and L'IMAD Holding Company, and organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, taking place at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, from May 4 to May 7, 2026. This year's edition highlights the UAE's strong commitment to advancing industrial innovation and economic diversification. The 2026 edition has achieved record-breaking growth, with 1,245 exhibitors, marking a 73% increase compared to the previous edition. The exhibition space has also expanded significantly, covering 88,000 square meters, a 30% ......read full article

Etihad Guest Introduces Discount Pricing for its Premium Members

Etihad Guest Gold, Platinum and Emerald members now receive exclusive discounts of up to 10% on Promo seats Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Guest, the award-winning loyalty programme of Etihad Airways, enhances its exclusive member experience with additional benefits to the programme’s Promo seats, for Gold, Platinum and Emerald status Etihad Guest members. Etihad’s Promo seats are exclusively available to every Etihad Guest member, providing exceptional value by offering access to fixed redemption mileage fares on flights across Etihad’s global network. Etihad Guest now offers exclusive discounts of up to 10% off the regular Promo seat fare for Etihad Guest members with Gold, Platinum and Emerald membership status, offering even greater value to the programme’s most loyal members. Mark Potter, ......read full article

Etihad Airways launches codeshare with Air Cambodia, opening gateway to Angkor Wat

Direct access to Siem Reap and key destinations across Vietnam through new partnership with Cambodia's flag carrier Partnership expands Etihad's Southeast Asia footprint  Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways and Air Cambodia have launched a codeshare partnership today, giving Etihad customers easier access to Cambodia's iconic Angkor Wat temple complex and one of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations.   Through the partnership, Etihad customers can book flights from across its network to Siem Reap via Phnom Penh on a single ticket, with baggage checked through to their final destination. Beyond the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the city offers vibrant night markets, traditional Khmer cuisine, and rich cultural experiences that draw visitors from ......read full article

Southwest joins IATA Schedule Data Exchange Program

27 April 2026 (Geneva) – Southwest Airlines has joined IATA's Schedule Data Exchange Program (SDEP), bringing the number of contributing airlines to 190. The SDEP was launched in late 2023 to build a uniquely airline-owned schedule and minimum connecting time exceptions database. Schedule data underpins many aspects of an airline's business, including network planning, slot coordination, and interline agreements. Data coverage now exceeds 70% available seat kilometers (ASKs) of airlines based in Asia, Middle East, and Africa, and is expected to reach 90% coverage globally by end of 2026.  Protecting Industry Data A key benefit of the SDEP lies in its give-to-get principle, where airlines provide their schedule data while receiving enriched global schedule data to power ......read full article

Start planning your Eid Al Adha with these 8 Abu Dhabi staycations for residents

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 27 April 2026: The Eid Al Adha holiday is expected to begin on Tuesday 26 May, meaning UAE residents are gearing up for a six-day break. Whether you're seeking a luxurious getaway or a quick, refreshing break close to home, Abu Dhabi is brimming with experiences, making it an ideal location to unwind and explore. From desert retreats to idyllic island hideaways and vibrant beachfront resorts, these eight Abu Dhabi hotels have crafted exclusive Eid packages to transform this break into a memorable getaway. Spend Eid by the sea at InterContinental Abu Dhabi InterContinental Abu Dhabi presents an exclusive Family Staycation designed for a memorable Eid experience. Enjoy a comfortable one-night stay, all-inclusive dining and full access to Bayshore Beach Club, featuring a pool, pristine golden ......read full article

Etihad Supercharges U.S. Network: Chicago Goes Double Daily as Charlotte Rises to Daily Service

Abu Dhabi-Chicago O’Hare to become double daily from 15 June Charlotte upgraded from four-weekly to daily following successful launch in March 2026 Strengthens connectivity between the U.S., India and Asia-Pacific via Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is accelerating its growth in the United States with two major enhancements to its North American network, increasing capacity and connectivity across key markets Chicago O’Hare will move to double-daily service, while Charlotte will increase to daily flights from 15 June, building on strong early performance following the launch of services on 20 March 2026 Together, the enhancements significantly expand Etihad’s U.S. footprint, strengthening connectivity between North America and high-growth markets across ......read full article

CNS Preparing for 2026 Annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco

23 April 2026 - Cargo Network Services Corporation (CNS) is gearing up to host its annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco (USA) from 18-20 May 2026. Being held under the theme “Elevating Air Cargo: Partnerships, Progress & Possibilities”, the conference is the premier networking event for the US air cargo industry, bringing together around 700 stakeholders and representatives from across the air cargo value chain. The CNS Partnership Conference combines informative plenary sessions and presentations focused on innovation and challenges in the cargo business, with a variety of networking and social events. CNS President Alicia Lines will open the event and will be joined by numerous recognized leaders of the cargo and aviation community, including: Brandon Fried, Executive ......read full article

It's time for africa! etihad airways unveils six new destinations, expanding footprint across the continent

Expansion strengthens Etihad's presence across high-growth African markets, connecting the continent to Abu Dhabi and the world beyond Reinforces Abu Dhabi's role as a gateway for trade, cargo and investment flows between Africa and Asia Builds on Etihad's growing China network alongside its extensive India network, opening a new corridor linking Africa and Asia through Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways today announced a significant expansion of its Africa network, adding new routes to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe from Abu Dhabi, as part of its continued global growth strategy. The new services reflect investment in high-growth markets, supporting increasing connectivity across trade, cargo and mobility. The expansion builds directly on ......read full article

Etihad elevates premium cabins on flights to Mumbai and New Delhi

  Etihad introduces the game-changing Airbus A321LR twice daily to Mumbai and New Delhi, complementing twice daily wide-body services to each city Luxurious lie-flat Business seats, all with direct-aisle access, now on all four daily flights connecting Abu Dhabi to the two Indian metropolises Guests can now enjoy Etihad’s renowned First experience on the A321LR from both cities Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has elevated its premium travel experience across all flights connecting Abu Dhabi to Mumbai and New Delhi, both operating four times daily. The airline will introduce its game-changing Airbus A321LR twice daily to both Mumbai and New Delhi, which will complement two daily wide-body services connecting Abu Dhabi to each city. Consequently, all guests flying from ......read full article

Etihad Airways Makes Travelling with Pets More Accessible with a Special Pets Onboard Promotional Offer

     Pets Onboard service becomes more accessible with a special promotional offer Etihad remains the only airline in the UAE to offer pets the option to travel in the cabin Enhanced offering supports growing demand for pet travel Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is making it more accessible for guests to travel with their cats and dogs, introducing a special promotional offer for its existing Pets Onboard service while continuing to deliver the care, comfort and safety that define the Etihad travel experience. Already the only airline in the UAE to offer guests the option to travel with pets in the cabin, Etihad continues to evolve the service in response to growing demand from travellers who wish to bring important members of the family when they ......read full article

Etihad airways expands china network & strengthens china eastern joint venture with five new routes and 28 additional weekly flights

Major increase in capacity strengthens air connectivity between the UAE and China Total mainland China network grows to 35 weekly flights across six key gateways Expansion supports trade, tourism and cargo flows across one of the world’s most important economic corridors Builds on Etihad’s joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, strengthening passenger connectivity between the UAE and China Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has announced a significant expansion of its mainland China network, launching five new routes and adding 28 weekly flights, marking one of the airline’s largest single market increases in recent years. The expansion will see Etihad operate services from Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) to Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), ......read full article

Etihad launches Dhaka services, strengthening trade and cargo links between the UAE and Bangladesh

Seasonal four-times weekly service from 26 June till 24 October 2026 Enhances cargo capacity across key trade corridors while supporting strong passenger demand Strengthens links between the UAE and Bangladesh, serving one of the largest diaspora communities globally Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, will launch a seasonal service to Dhaka, Bangladesh, from 26 June 2026, strengthening trade and cargo links across the South Asia corridor, while responding to strong and sustained demand for travel and logistics between the UAE and Bangladesh.  The four-times weekly service to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) will strengthen connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Bangladesh, while supporting the continued expansion of cargo flows alongside passenger demand across the ......read full article

PoCs Prove Industry is Ready for Contactless Travel

08 April 2026 (Singapore) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published the results of several digital identity Proofs of Concept (PoCs) completed with the support of airlines, airports, technology providers and governments across Europe and Asia-Pacific. The successful PoCs demonstrated that contactless, biometric-enabled international travel is already achievable with digital identity replacing paper documentation. Working together as part of the IATA Strategic Partnerships Program, the partners tested how digital identity stored in mobile wallets and biometric verification can support seamless passenger journeys without repeated paper document checks. Importantly, the PoCs demonstrated that interoperability of systems is sufficiently advanced to support contactless journeys involving multiple ......read full article

SalamAir Releases First Quarter (Q1) 2026 On-Time Performance Results

Muscat- Sultanate of Oman, 05 April 2026 SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost Carrier, has announced its On-Time Performance (OTP) results for the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing its continued commitment to operational transparency, reliability, and customer trust. OTP is an internationally recognized measure of punctuality, calculated by the percentage of flights departing within 15 minutes of their scheduled departure time.  During the first quarter of 2026, SalamAir operated 5520 flights and carried 778,410 passengers across its network, achieving an On-Time Performance of 65.6%.  The quarter was impacted by several extraordinary challenges, including regional airspace restrictions, airport closures because of geopolitical ......read full article

Spring Moments at Al Khail Square Brings Seasonal Workshops, Family Entertainment and Community Experiences to Abu Dhabi

After a landmark Ramadan month that welcomed over 100,000 guests, the destination now introduces a vibrant calendar of spring activations Abu Dhabi, UAE – 04 April, 2026 – Al Khail Square welcomes the new season with Spring Moments at Al Khail Square, a curated programme of workshops, live entertainment and seasonal experiences set within the destination's lively open-air setting. Inspired by the colours and energy of spring, it invites visitors of all ages to enjoy interactive activities, performances and a mix of lifestyle pop-ups alongside specialty coffee concepts. During the week, visitors can relax and soak up the vibrant ambience over coffee and pastries while enjoying sporting moments, including watching horse training sessions and other equestrian activities. From Friday to Sunday, the programme ......read full article

World Autism awareness day at Zayed National Museum

Join World Autism Awareness Day at Zayed National Museum, a community-focused programme that brings the museum’s values of inclusion, dignity and shared responsibility to life through meaningful, accessible experiences. Time: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM  Location: Zayed National Museum HARAT AL HOSN (Ongoing)  A temporary exhibition at Al Ain Museum brings to life the history and social fabric of a once-thriving neighbourhood through oral histories, archival materials, and sensory experiences.  Time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Location: Al Ain Museum  YOUNG PICASSO (25 April 2026)  This documentary looks at the early years of Picasso; his upbringing and learning that led to his extraordinary achievements.  Time: 7:00 PM Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi Visal Arts  AND AFTER (Until 12 ......read full article

Air Cargo Demand up 11.2% in February 2026

31 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for February 2026 global air cargo markets showing: Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 11.2% compared to February 2025 levels (+11.6% for international operations). Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 8.5% compared to February 2025 (+9.8% for international operations). "Air cargo demand grew 11.2% in February. Even considering the boost that February received from the movement of goods ahead of Lunar New Year, the month showed strong growth. The outbreak of war in the Middle East at the end of the month, however, makes it difficult to see how full-year performance will unfold. Sharply rising fuel costs, fuel scarcity in parts of the world, and the ......read full article

Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Mubadala Extend Open Call for Second Edition of House of Artisans Design Competition

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 25 March, 2026: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Mubadala are pleased to announce that the open call for submissions for the second edition of the House of Artisans Design Competition has been extended. Creatives across the United Arab Emirates now have until 20 April to submit their entries for this prestigious competition, which celebrates and reinterprets traditional Emirati craftsmanship through contemporary design. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the competition, sponsored by Mubadala, is a vital initiative under House of Artisans, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and preserving the UAE’s rich heritage. It offers a unique platform for designers to engage with traditional crafts, with selected ......read full article

EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes

EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes 24 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) calls for the review of the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to enhance European air connectivity and economic resilience by improving the competitiveness of Europe’s air transport industry. IATA calls for the review to: Ensure full implementation of CORSIA for all international flights, including flights within the European Economic Area (EEA) routes. To prevent market fragmentations, the EU should avoid regional derogations, additional eligibility hurdles, and overlapping measures that conflict with this global framework. Enable a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) book-and-claim system for the claiming of environmental ......read full article

Air Travel Demand Will More Than Double by 2050

17 March 2026 (Geneva) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its Long‑Term Demand Projections (LTDP) for air travel, showing that global air passenger demand is expected to more than double by 2050. Under the mid‑range scenario, demand is forecast to reach 20.8 trillion revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% (2024-2050) from the 9 trillion RPKs seen in 2024. A higher growth scenario would see a 3.3% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 21.9 trillion RPKs in 2050. A lower growth scenario would see 2.9% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 19.5 trillion RPKs by 2050. The different scenarios are driven by alternative modeling of long-term economic growth, populations, aviation fuel price trends, the global energy transition, and air ......read full article

Saudia Adds 20 Flights to the Red Sea Destination During Eid Al-Fitr Holiday

In collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority and The Red Sea Global Jeddah: March 13, 2026 Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has added 20 flights on routes connecting Riyadh and Jeddah with The Red Sea Destination during the Eid Al-Fitr holiday period, bringing the total number of flights operating in both directions to 44. The additional capacity comes in collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority and Red Sea Global as part of a joint effort to promote key tourism destinations across the Kingdom, with a particular focus on positioning The Red Sea as a world-class luxury tourism destination. Flights to and from The Red Sea will feature Saudia's integrated guest experience, including advanced AI-powered digital services for personalized travel planning, streamlined airport procedures, and an ......read full article

IATA Launches DG Digital to Fully Digitalize Dangerous Goods Declarations

13 March 2026 (Lima) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched DG Digital, IATA's digital Dangerous Goods Declaration solution, as a feature of DG AutoCheck. The new tool fully digitalizes the creation and approval of shippers' declarations for more than 3,800 dangerous items—from lithium batteries to explosives and chemicals. This results in faster document sharing, improved safety, and a significant reduction in rejected shipments. Today, 95% of Dangerous Goods Declarations are still received in paper format. These declarations must be scanned, converted into a PDF document, then uploaded into DG AutoCheck to be validated. With DG Digital, declarations are generated and transmitted digitally from creation by the shipper to validation. This creates a more efficient and ......read full article

IATA Advances AI Initiatives to Support Air Cargo Operations

12 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is advancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air cargo with three initiatives to improve operational efficiency, strengthen safety and compliance, and accelerate innovation across the global air cargo value chain: Making publications more efficient: IATA is launching an AI Subject Matter Expert (AI SME), a mobile and web-based application that helps operational teams quickly find information in IATA cargo and safety publications by asking questions in plain language. The tool provides accurate answers within seconds. This supports faster operational decision-making, strengthens compliance, and improves efficiency in time-critical environments. The AI SME will be available initially for the IATA Dangerous Goods ......read full article

Air Cargo Enable $157 Billion in Frontloaded Trade and Supported AI Growth in 2025

11 March 2026 (Lima, Peru) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a report, showing air cargo’s vital role in sustaining global trade and supporting economic growth in 2025 amid severe trade policy uncertainty. Two key report findings are that: Air cargo enabled the frontloading of $157 billion US imports in the first quarter of 2025. Air cargo transported more than two thirds of global AI-related goods in 2025. These activities supported global trade growth of 2.4% in 2025—well above initial forecasts by the World Trade Organization. Global GDP also expanded by 3.2% despite significant policy headwinds. “Air cargo is a structural component of global economic resilience. In 2025, it helped businesses absorb tariff shocks, enabled rapid trade restructuring, and ......read full article

Highlights Three Priorities for Air Cargo

11 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities for the global air cargo industry: Accelerating digitalization Strengthening global standards Enhancing safety and security "Air cargo plays a critical role in connecting businesses to global markets and keeping supply chains moving, even as the operating environment becomes more complex. With so many external events impacting global supply chains—including the tariff and geopolitical shocks—it is important that we work on building resilience in areas we can control or influence. Working together to strengthen digitalization, global standards, and supply chain security will position air cargo well to continue supporting economic growth by connecting products to markets," said Brendan Sullivan, ......read full article

IATA Releases 2025 Safety Report

0 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2025 Annual Safety Report demonstrating a solid year of safety performance with the following highlights: The all-accident rate of 1.32 per million flights (one accident per 759,646 flights) was better than the 1.42 recorded in 2024 but slightly above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 1.27. There were 51 accidents in 2025 among 38.7 million flights. That is fewer than the 54 accidents among 37.9 million flights in 2024, but above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 44 accidents. There were eight fatal accidents in 2025. That is more than the seven fatal accidents recorded in 2024 and the five-year average of six fatal accidents. There were 394 onboard fatalities in 2025, more than the 244 fatalities reported in ......read full article

IATA Focus Africa to Spotlight Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency

9 March 2026 (Amman) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 edition of IATA Focus Africa Conference will convene under the theme 'Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency in Africa' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29-30 April 2026, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines. "Aviation has the potential to do much more to enable Africa's economic and social development. Improving safety, harmonizing regulations, and reducing costs while increasing operational efficiency are at the top of the agenda for this edition of the IATA Focus Africa Conference. The demand to support 3-4% growth annually is there. Focus Africa aims to align the continent's aviation stakeholders in taking the pragmatic steps needed to turn potential into a sustainable ......read full article

McLaren Racing announces Etihad Airways as an Official Partner

McLaren Racing today announced that Etihad, the national airline of the UAE, will become an Official Partner of the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team and the McLaren United Autosports WEC Hypercar Team for the 2026 season and beyond. The partnership brings together two organisations with a shared commitment to innovation, ambition and delivering exceptional experiences for fans and customers around the world. With a strong synergy between racing and travel, this unique partnership will bring fans closer to the action through Etihad's fast-growing network of more than 100 destinations. As McLaren competes across multiple series around the globe, Etihad will support the team through its global network spanning premier racing destinations such as the UAE, Australia, China and Japan to the UK, Spain, Italy and the ......read full article

IATA Opens Nominations for 2026 Edition of Diversity & Inclusion Awards

26 February 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Awards. The Awards recognize excellence in the promotion of diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry in three categories: The Inspirational Role Model Award recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry who has had substantial impact on diversity and inclusion in aviation through her significant influence at global level. The High Flyer Award recognizes a female aviation professional under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership through concrete action in favor of diversity and inclusion, making a positive impact on the industry. The Diversity & ......read full article

EHRDC in Dubai hosts ‘Aviation Talents 33 - Emiratisation Agenda' Retreat to boost Emirati participation in key positions

The retreat aligns with an unwavering commitment to equip a generation of national competencies capable of leading the aviation sector. Dubai, February 26, 2026: The Emirati Human Resources Development Council (EHRDC) in Dubai organised the Aviation Talents 33 - Emiratisation Agenda Retreat, in partnership with various aviation sector entities. The event forms part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to boost the Emiratisation of pivotal roles across the sector, which is regarded as one of the strategic contributors to Dubai’s economy. It also aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and the UAE Centennial 2071, which seeks to establish a prosperous knowledge-based economy driven by future skills. The retreat convened representatives from various entities and strategic partners across the public ......read full article