Latest news with #EmiratesAirlines
The Hindu
an hour ago
- The Hindu
Police warn against use of laser beams, hot air balloons near Chennai airport
Close on the heels of a complaint by a pilot about flashing of laser beam lights as a hindrance, Greater Chennai has issued a warning against use of laser beams, release of hot air balloons or tethered balloons and light emitting objects around the airspace near Chennai Airport as they pose a threat to the flight operations and safety of flight passengers. Last Sunday, a pilot of an Emirates Airlines complained that a laser beam was flashed at the aircraft while it was making an approach to land at the Chennai airport, prompting action from authorities. The Emirates flight from Dubai to Chennai was carrying 326 passengers onboard. The aircraft was nearly six nautical miles from airport when the beam was flashed at it. A senior police officer said a passenger had noticed the laser beam and shared it with the pilot. After landing, the pilot then contacted the Chennai airport control room and reported that the laser light was pointed at the aircraft as if to obstruct it while it was landing. Following this, the Chennai airport control room passed the information to the authorities including the city police. However, there is no formal complaint, the officer added. In the advisory, the city police said this dangerous activity not only violates existing regulations but poses a serious threat as the laser beams can cause temporary visual impairment, when hit directly into the eyes and also distract the pilots while landing aircrafts. Further, bright laser lights can cause eye injury to the public as well. Airport operations could be disrupted or suspended for a considerable time, if the source of the illumination could not readily be identified and eliminated. Any such use of laser beam lights or other lights are prohibited u/s 223 (a) of BNS, 2023 for violation of bans on laser lights and drones near airports. Similarly, Rule 65 and 66 of Aircrafts Rules, 1937 regulate laser lights and other aerial activities near airports. Likewise, shining a laser beam at an aircraft is a serious offence and falls under Sec 125 of BNS which defines that 'Act endangering life or personal safety of others'. Hence, it is advised to the public that no such light emitting objects may be used near the airport, said the city police. Another officer said there are at least 50 such instances in a year. In most cases, the concerned pilot did not come forward to report it formally and they just reported to the airport authorities. 'We were not able to proceed further in such cases. In case of large functions / gatherings, we impose restrictions on the usage of laser beams and ask the organisers to strictly adhere to the conditions,' he said.
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Travel + Leisure
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Travel + Leisure
I Flew on Emirates' New Premium Economy Cabin—Here's What It Was Like
Sleeping in an economy seat has always been a challenge. As someone who has traveled on several overnight redeye flights, I understand the difficulties of trying to sleep well in an upright position with a fastened seat belt in a tight space. So when I woke up on a redeye flight refreshed and recharged, I knew Emirates had done something right. Airlines have notoriously started blurring the once-firm line between economy and first class with mid-level classes offering different creature comforts. Now, Emirates—a flagship carrier of the United Arab Emirates—unveiled its own version of "premium economy" cabin with more leg room, upgraded dining, and a more enjoyable economy experience. And this elevated version of the economy cabin is perfect for travelers looking for a premium experience without paying the big bucks of a first-class ticket. Best of all, the upgraded cabin is available on Emirates' New York-to-Europe routes, which includes the carrier's flight between Newark, New Jersey (EWR), and Athens, Greece (ATH). From there, travelers can stay in Athens, connect to another European destination, or continue with Emirates to Dubai. The service, which made its debut this spring, is being heralded as one of the best premium economy products in the marketplace by travelers due to the cabin design, dining options, and personalized service. On our flight, the Emirates cabin crew made the boarding process pleasant, with warm greetings, helpful introductions to the seat and cabin, and an attentive demeanor while previewing the upcoming flight service. The magic of the cabin continued at 30,000 feet when the meal service commenced. A multi-course meal rivaling a meal at a Michelin-starred eatery was paired perfectly with the 2012 Château Fombrauge from the airline's ample onboard wine cellar. With a satisfied stomach, I continued to enjoy the flight on the 13.3-inch high-definition screen, where I watched the Jon Chu-directed "Wicked," which looked and sounded brilliant. The built-in Bluetooth connection worked flawlessly to deliver crystal-clear audio to my noise-cancelling headphones. The aircraft offers complimentary Wi-Fi for members of Emirates' loyalty program, Skywards, which is free to join. While I wasn't planning on working or scrolling social media, the Wi-Fi was helpful to communicate to friends and family about the flight. As the credits rolled on "Wicked," it was time for me to get some rest. Upon waking, I was surprised to learn from my Apple Watch that I slept for over four hours without waking up. Most surprising of all: I wasn't even seated in the coveted window seat where I could lay against the wall—I was in the middle section, in a row of four seats. Emirates' premium economy cabin was designed by its in-house Dubai-based design team, with two goals: elevated comfort and modern style. 'From the wood panel finishing to the cream-colored leather seats with a generous pitch of up to 40 inches complete with a calf and footrest, these seats provide a spacious and relaxing flying experience,' Matthew Jones, Emirates' V.P. of the United States, said in a statement to T+L. Another luxury touch of the cabin is that both sides are curtained off, which drowns out any excess noise, lights, or interruptions from the galley or restrooms. While the elevated experiences of Emirates' first class and business class are world-renowned, premium economy is the solution for travelers who are looking for something in between. It empowers passengers to arrive at their destination rested and comfortable, while maintaining a tighter budget on the airfare cost. As an example, the Newark-to-Athens route costs an average of $12,000 in first class, and $4,450 in business, while only $1,480 in premium economy, according to Google Flight data viewed by T+L. Some passengers who book regular economy tickets, as low as $674, are provided the opportunity to upgrade to the cabin when using cash or miles. Plus, the Newark-to-Athens service provides a luxury option to a region of Europe that has fewer flight frequencies than other major European capitals such as London or Madrid. While in Athens, I took a cable car to dine at Orizontes and enjoy sweeping views of Athens; checked into the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, which is just a short drive from the Athens Airport; and spontaneously danced off my finale supper at Aigli Zappeiou during a summer evening concert series. And yet, one of the most memorable elements of the trip was the journey itself and being able to fall into a blissful slumber at 30,000 feet.
Khaleej Times
22-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Etihad Airways is IPO-ready, but no date has been decided yet, says CEO
Etihad Airways is ready to go public whenever it gets a nod from the shareholders, but no date has been decided yet, its chief executive said. 'There is no date (to launch IPO), but we're ready. Let me be very transparent about that. We're ready to go the day the shareholder decides to go,' said Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Airways. 'We live in a situation where other airlines are buying back shares because they're making so much money that the shareholders are saying, 'Look, I want to buy back shares,'' he told Khaleej Times in an interview on Thursday. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. He added that shareholders of other airlines believe that the company is making money and paying dividends, hence, they don't need capital. 'Our balance sheet is very strong, so it's for the shareholder to decide (about going public). So there's no date defined,' he said. Quoting sources, Reuters reported in March 2025 that the Abu Dhabi-based national carrier will launch $1 billion. In addition to Etihad Airways, the news about Dubai's flagship carrier Emirates Airlines has also been doing rounds for many years. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates airline and Group, also said during a media interaction at the Arabian Travel Market in May that the airline is IPO-ready. He said that if the Dubai government asks the company to go public, I have to do it. Many Dubai and Abu Dhabi companies have gone public over the past few years, as governments are looking to further deepen local stock markets. There has been a strong demand for the UAE IPOs. The latest IPO of Dubai Residential REIT was oversubscribed 26 times. On Wednesday, Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways announced a record after-tax first-quarter profit of Dh685 million, an increase of 30 per cent, on the back of higher passenger numbers. Its revenues grew 15 per cent year-on-year, reaching Dh6.6 billion, driven by both passenger and cargo businesses. It carried 5.0 million passengers, a 16 per cent increase year-on-year, with load factor improving to 87 per cent.
Emirates 24/7
22-05-2025
- Emirates 24/7
Emirates layers on 46 additional flights for Hajj and Eid Al Adha
Emirates is ramping up its operations for this year's Hajj season, with 33 special flights to Jeddah and Medina operating until 31 May and between 10 and 16 June to support the thousands of pilgrims traveling for their once-in-a-lifetime journey to the holy city of Mecca. Emirates will also operate 13 more flights to/from regional destinations including Amman, Dammam, Kuwait and Bahrain to meet high demand during the Eid Al Adha period, as travellers venture to summer leisure destinations, or visit their loved ones for Eid celebrations. Emirates will be transporting nearly 32,000 Hajj passengers over the next three weeks from key points within its network like USA, Pakistan, Indonesia, South Africa, Thailand, and Côte d'Ivoire. The onboard pilgrim experience The Hajj experience with Emirates begins on the ground once pilgrims arrive in Dubai as dedicated airport teams seamlessly guide them through arrivals, connections, and hotel transfers. Onboard, pilgrims across all cabins will receive distinctive 'Hajj' luggage tags, alongside a newly introduced Hajj kit featuring a prayer mat, tasbih beads for prayer, mindfulness and constant remembrance, silicon water bottles, and cushioned non-slip socks — ensuring a reverent, comfortable journey. All special Hajj flights offer a customised experience for pilgrims, including ablution-friendly amenities, unperfumed towels, special announcements marking Al Miqat zones, and dedicated Hajj content on ice . All passengers returning from Jeddah and Medinah can also check in up to 5 litres of holy water (Zamzam), to be placed in the aircraft's designated cargo area. Customers traveling on special Hajj flights are encouraged to explore the complete Hajj experience on Emirates' website for the latest requirements and what to expect on ground and onboard their flights to/from Jeddah and Medinah. Emirates' Eid Al Adha traditions Keeping with Eid Al Adha traditions, flights to select destinations across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, Far East, Europe and Africa will offer a special Eid menu across all travel classes. Customers can enjoy traditional dishes like Lamb Madfoon and Chicken Zurbian in First, Business and Premium Economy Class. First, Business and Premium Economy Class customers can indulge in Pistachio and Chocolate Nammoura Cake as well as White Chocolate and Rahash Mousse cake. In Economy Class, customers can tuck into Pistachio Cake and Coffee Cake. First and Business Class customers traveling on the Emirates A380 can expect a rich selection of Emirati desserts and unlimited Arabic Coffee in the Onboard Lounge. Customers across all travel classes will also be treated to desserts wrapped in unique, celebratory boxes. These will include bite-size specialities like Cake Rangeena, Pistachio Rehash Cake, and Date Mamoul cookies. Customers traveling in First and Business Class from Jeddah will be spoilt for choice with a selection of delectable dishes and desserts like Lamb Mathlouta, Lamb Saleeg, Henaini and Cheese Kunafa in the airline's dedicated lounge. Customers traveling during Eid Al Adha can also enjoy on-demand entertainment on ice , including 2,000 movies from around the world - more than 75 of them in Arabic with classics and new releases like such as Abo Nasab, Al Mazra'a and Al Ankaboot. There are also up to 50 Arabic series channels, along with Shahid exclusives such as Al Bath, Trad and Sadaf. Customers can also look forward to enjoying Turkish series - dubbed in Arabic - like Tout El Aswad and Al Uqda. On demand entertainment also includes 15 Arabic podcast and audiobook channels, The Holy Qur'an, and over 500 Arabic music channels including pop, classics, Khaleeji, Maghrebi, and fusion genres. Customers rushed for time who missed buying gifts for friends and family can easily and conveniently shop luxury duty-free products with Emirates RED's new summer catalogue featuring 200 products from brands like Hermes, Cartier, Tom Ford, Creed and Jo Malone, and others. Customers looking to save time can pre-order duty-free items on , which will be delivered directly to their seat onboard. The service is available on most flights, with shopping open from 21 days to 40 hours before departure. During Eid Al Adha, Emirates RED is offering an exclusive 10% discount for customers using the code 'REDMAG' at checkout. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Al Bawaba
22-05-2025
- Al Bawaba
Emirates layers on 46 additional flights for Hajj and Eid Al Adha
Emirates is ramping up its operations for this year's Hajj season, with 33 special flights to Jeddah and Medina operating until 31 May and between 10 and 16 June to support the thousands of pilgrims traveling for their once-in-a-lifetime journey to the holy city of Mecca. Emirates will also operate 13 more flights to/from regional destinations including Amman, Dammam, Kuwait and Bahrain to meet high demand during the Eid Al Adha period, as travellers venture to summer leisure destinations, or visit their loved ones for Eid celebrations. Emirates will be transporting nearly 32,000 Hajj passengers over the next three weeks from key points within its network like USA, Pakistan, Indonesia, South Africa, Thailand, and Côte d'Ivoire. The onboard pilgrim experience The Hajj experience with Emirates begins on the ground once pilgrims arrive in Dubai as dedicated airport teams seamlessly guide them through arrivals, connections, and hotel transfers. Onboard, pilgrims across all cabins will receive distinctive 'Hajj' luggage tags, alongside a newly introduced Hajj kit featuring a prayer mat, tasbih beads for prayer, mindfulness and constant remembrance, silicon water bottles, and cushioned non-slip socks — ensuring a reverent, comfortable journey. All special Hajj flights offer a customised experience for pilgrims, including ablution-friendly amenities, unperfumed towels, special announcements marking Al Miqat zones, and dedicated Hajj content on ice. All passengers returning from Jeddah and Medinah can also check in up to 5 litres of holy water (Zamzam), to be placed in the aircraft's designated cargo area. Customers traveling on special Hajj flights are encouraged to explore the complete Hajj experience on Emirates' website for the latest requirements and what to expect on ground and onboard their flights to/from Jeddah and Medinah. Emirates' Eid Al Adha traditions Keeping with Eid Al Adha traditions, flights to select destinations across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, Far East, Europe and Africa will offer a special Eid menu across all travel classes. Customers can enjoy traditional dishes like Lamb Madfoon and Chicken Zurbian in First, Business and Premium Economy Class. First, Business and Premium Economy Class customers can indulge in Pistachio and Chocolate Nammoura Cake as well as White Chocolate and Rahash Mousse cake. In Economy Class, customers can tuck into Pistachio Cake and Coffee Cake. First and Business Class customers traveling on the Emirates A380 can expect a rich selection of Emirati desserts and unlimited Arabic Coffee in the Onboard Lounge. Customers across all travel classes will also be treated to desserts wrapped in unique, celebratory boxes. These will include bite-size specialities like Cake Rangeena, Pistachio Rehash Cake, and Date Mamoul cookies. Customers traveling in First and Business Class from Jeddah will be spoilt for choice with a selection of delectable dishes and desserts like Lamb Mathlouta, Lamb Saleeg, Henaini and Cheese Kunafa in the airline's dedicated lounge. Customers traveling during Eid Al Adha can also enjoy on-demand entertainment on ice, including 2,000 movies from around the world - more than 75 of them in Arabic with classics and new releases like such as Abo Nasab, Al Mazra'a and Al Ankaboot. There are also up to 50 Arabic series channels, along with Shahid exclusives such as Al Bath, Trad and Sadaf. Customers can also look forward to enjoying Turkish series - dubbed in Arabic - like Tout El Aswad and Al Uqda. On demand entertainment also includes 15 Arabic podcast and audiobook channels, The Holy Qur'an, and over 500 Arabic music channels including pop, classics, Khaleeji, Maghrebi, and fusion genres. Customers rushed for time who missed buying gifts for friends and family can easily and conveniently shop luxury duty-free products with Emirates RED's new summer catalogue featuring 200 products from brands like Hermes, Cartier, Tom Ford, Creed and Jo Malone, and others. Customers looking to save time can pre-order duty-free items on which will be delivered directly to their seat onboard. The service is available on most flights, with shopping open from 21 days to 40 hours before departure. During Eid Al Adha, Emirates RED is offering an exclusive 10% discount for customers using the code 'REDMAG' at checkout.
