Latest news with #TonyDouglas
Zawya
15 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM sign MoU to establish strategic cooperation and expand global connectivity
Partnership aims to enhance global connectivity for guests traveling between Riyadh, Paris, Amsterdam and beyond. Focus areas include network connectivity, codeshare cooperation, loyalty program rewards and seamless guest experience. Collaboration to explore joint opportunities in MRO, sustainability, digital transformation and cargo. New Delhi – Saudi Arabia's new national carrier, Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM signed a Strategic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step forward in global connectivity for guests traveling between Riyadh, Paris, Amsterdam, and destinations far beyond. The MoU, signed at the 2025 IATA Annual General Meeting by Tony Douglas CEO Riyadh Air and Benjamin Smith CEO of Air France-KLM Group, sets the foundation for a dynamic partnership. Subject to regulatory approvals, the collaboration aims to gradually introduce a wide range of benefits for guests and to unlock new opportunities across Western Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Asia, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This strategic partnership will focus on strengthening network connectivity, with both partners working together to maximize future opportunities through Riyadh Air's hub in the capital of Saudi Arabia and Air France-KLM's Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol airport hubs. The recent launch of Air France's Paris Charles de Gaulle–Riyadh service, alongside KLM's established Amsterdam–Riyadh operations, reflects the shared commitment to expanding travel options for guests. Beyond route connectivity, Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM will collaborate to enhance the guest experience, exploring opportunities in reciprocal loyalty program rewards, operational support, and lounge access. The partnership also extends to areas such as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), digital transformation, sustainability, and cargo services—ensuring a comprehensive approach to delivering value. Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, commented: ' We are dedicated to connecting Riyadh to the world, and partnering with Air France-KLM - a leader in global aviation, will accelerate bringing to life our vision to deliver exceptional experiences and the realization of our long-term vision: to redefine air travel through innovation, operational excellence, and guest-centric services. This partnership not only strengthens our international network but also reinforces confidence in our growth trajectory and our role in supporting Saudi Arabia's broader economic diversification goals under Vision 2030.' Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM Group, added: 'Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a key market for aviation. With our three brands, Air France, KLM and Transavia now serving the country, and with this new agreement with Riyadh Air, we aim to continue increasing our footprint in the region. We look forward to combining our networks and expertise with Riyadh Air, and to offer our mutual customers more choice and convenience. This cooperation is complementary to our SkyTeam partner in the region.' As Riyadh Air embarks on its journey to become a leading global carrier, this partnership with Air France-KLM underlines a bold commitment to excellence, innovation, and exceptional guest experience. About Riyadh Air Riyadh Air, a PIF company, is a world-class airline. Launched in March 2023, the airline will be a digitally led, full-service airline that adopts the best global sustainability and safety practices across its advanced fleet of aircraft. Riyadh Air will equip its aircraft with the most advanced, state-of-the-art features with innovative, best-in-class cabin interiors and experiences, including next generation digital in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity solutions. Riyadh Air will connect guests to over 100 destinations around the world by 2030 through offering an exceptional guest experience with an authentic, warm Saudi hospitality at its heart. Website: About Air France-KLM Group A global player with a strong European base, the Air France-KLM Group's main areas of business are passenger transport, cargo transport and aeronautical maintenance. Air France-KLM is a leading airline Group in terms of international traffic on departure from Europe. It offers its customers access to a worldwide network, covering over 320 destinations thanks to Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Transavia, mainly from its bases at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly and Amsterdam-Schiphol. Flying Blue is the loyalty programme of the Air France-KLM Group with more than 26 million members. Together with its partners Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic, Air France-KLM operates the largest transatlantic joint venture, with more than 375 daily flights. Air France-KLM is also a member of the SkyTeam, the alliance dedicated to providing passengers with a more seamless travel experience at every step of their journey 19 member airlines working together across an extensive global network. Recognized for 20 years as an industry leader in sustainable development, the Air France-KLM Group is determined to accelerate the transition to more sustainable aviation. Air France-KLM press office:– - @AirFranceKLM
Travel Daily News
18 hours ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Riyadh Air and Ministry of Culture partner to elevate Saudi heritage
Riyadh Air and Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture partner to embed authentic Saudi heritage into the airline's operations, enhancing global cultural engagement. Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new national airline, has signed a landmark strategic partnership with the Ministry of Culture to transform the travel experience by embedding authentic Saudi culture into every aspect of its operations. The agreement was signed during an official ceremony at the Ministry's headquarters in Riyadh, with Hamed bin Mohammed Fayez, Vice Minister of Culture, and Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. This collaboration will highlight the Kingdom's unique identity while promoting its diverse heritage to travelers worldwide. Hamed bin Mohammed Fayez, Vice Minister of Culture, said: 'This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of making Saudi culture a central part of everyday life. Together with Riyadh Air we are transforming air travel into a platform for cultural discovery, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 and ensuring that every traveler experiences the richness of Saudi heritage.' Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, echoed these sentiments: 'At Riyadh Air, we take pride in being more than just an airline—we are ambassadors of Saudi culture. This partnership allows us to bring the beauty and diversity of Saudi Arabia to life through every detail of the travel experience, from our branding to the services we provide onboard and in our lounges. Through this collaboration, we are not only elevating the travel experience but also contributing to the broader goals of Vision 2030 by promoting Saudi Arabia's creative economy and supporting local talent.' The agreement includes several key initiatives designed to enrich the passenger journey: Seasonal Cultural Campaigns: Riyadh Air terminals will be transformed into dynamic spaces celebrating Saudi heritage, featuring interactive displays, art installations, and live performances. Immersive In-Flight Content: Travelers will enjoy curated content that showcases Saudi Arabia's historical sites, cultural festivals, and artistic achievements. Special Event Flights: Dedicated flights will coincide with major cultural events, offering passengers exclusive access to Saudi Arabia's most iconic celebrations. As part of the partnership, Riyadh Air will collaborate with Saudi designers, artists, and musicians to incorporate contemporary interpretations of Saudi culture into its operations. Recent examples include the airline's collaboration with renowned Saudi designer Mohammed Ashi, whose work has influenced everything from cabin interiors to staff uniforms. Additionally, Riyadh Air recently unveiled its auditory identity, 'The Sound of a New Era of Travel,' developed in partnership with the Music Commission and performed by the Saudi National Orchestra. This initiative blends traditional Saudi melodies with modern arrangements, creating a soundscape that resonates with both local and international audiences. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Riyadh Air's journey to become a global leader in culturally enriched travel. By aligning with the Ministry of Culture's objectives under Vision 2030, the airline is setting a new standard for how aviation can serve as a bridge between nations, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Irish Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
‘It's been a great adventure' – Peter Bellew leaves Riyadh Air role after almost three years
Mr Bellew has been with the airline, which is due to begin scheduled flights later this year, for almost three years and his current role was announced just over two years ago. Earlier this year, Riyadh Air postponed its launch date to later in 2025 due to supply chain issues at Boeing. The carrier is aiming to make Riyadh a hub for traffic between Asia, Africa and Europe. By 2030 its target is to serve 100 destinations. Riyadh Air, backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, will be the second flag-carrier in the country, with the government already owning airline Saudia. Riyadh Air has billions of dollars' worth of orders from Boeing and Airbus and is planning to have a fleet of up to 200 jets. Getting a new widebody airline licence, launching an airline, and building a super team was fascinating Last autumn, it placed an order for 60 Airbus A321 jets and it also has orders for Boeing Dreamliners. Riyadh Air's CEO is Tony Douglas, a former executive at Abu Dhabi's Etihad. Mr Bellew confirmed his departure from Riyadh Air. 'It has been a great adventure with Riyadh Air for the last three years,' he said. 'Getting a new widebody airline licence, launching an airline, and building a super team was fascinating. Being welcomed by the wonderful Saudi people was the highlight.' He said he is 'optimistic for the future' and that the 'journey is the reward'. Mr Bellew, from Co Meath, was CEO of Malaysia Airlines before rejoining Ryanair in 2017 as chief operations officer. He was hired by Michael O'Leary as Ryanair dealt with pilot unrest that ultimately resulted in company-wide union recognition. In 2019, Mr Bellew announced that he was leaving Ryanair and later said he would be joining EasyJet as its chief operating officer. Ryanair tried to enforce a non-compete clause, taking a case against Mr Bellew in the High Court. But Mr Bellew won, with the High Court ruling a non-compete clause in his contract was not enforceable. Mr Bellew resigned from EasyJet in 2022. Mr Douglas told Reuters last month that Riyadh Air would be interested in acquiring Boeing aircraft that Chinese carriers have opted not to take due to the trade war that erupted between the US and the rest of the world, should the opportunity arise..
Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
DCG Poll Reveals 75% of Americans Favor Decentralized AI's Open Innovation Over Centralized AI
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DCG, a global investor, builder, and incubator of decentralized ecosystems, today unveiled the results of a new study conducted in partnership with The Harris Poll, revealing that 75% of consumers believe decentralized AI is more likely to support innovation and progress than centralized AI. 1 The survey, which polled 2,036 U.S. respondents, including registered voters and AI users, provides insight into growing sentiment favoring decentralized approaches to artificial intelligence, signaling strong support for the emerging sector of decentralized AI (deAI). 'This research makes it clear: there's strong public support for policies that both protect innovation and keep pace with where the world is headed. Three-quarters of Americans agree that the transformative power of AI would benefit more people if it wasn't consolidated in the hands of a few major players,' said Julie Stitzel, Senior Vice President of Policy at DCG. 'Just as we've done in digital assets, we're committed to working hand-in-hand with policymakers to shape thoughtful, balanced rules that foster the growth of decentralized systems, which are opening access to intelligence in the same way that the internet first opened access to information.' The poll is released alongside the DCG Fly-In, a two-day event held last week in Washington, D.C., bringing together DCG, its portfolio companies, and key U.S. lawmakers to discuss decentralized AI, privacy, energy, and pending market structure and stablecoin bills. During the event, DCG co-hosted a deAI briefing with the bi-partisan House Congressional Crypto Caucus, and one Fly-In participant testified before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee of Investigations and Oversight about decentralized solutions for AI energy challenges. DeAI is a model combining artificial intelligence with blockchain technology to democratize access, enhance transparency, and ensure privacy in AI systems, which was Americans' single largest concern with AI according to polling data. Unlike traditional AI controlled by a few large entities, deAI offers economic incentives and distributes control to contributors across a decentralized network such as Bittensor, enabling equitable access to AI systems' benefits and reducing risks such as bias and privacy concerns. "The public is calling for a new social contract with artificial intelligence: one where AI is governed openly, distributes value fairly, and gives people a meaningful stake in the systems that shape their lives,' said Tony Douglas, Co-Founder, Decentralized Research Center. 'Decentralization is no longer a fringe idea, it's a framework for building AI that reflects public values and a chance to avoid repeating the failures of the last tech era." Compelling findings from the survey include: Consumers are optimistic about AI's potential, but demand stronger personal oversight. 88% agree that if AI is using their personal information and data, they should have more control over what is being used. A majority of consumers (59%) agree that AI is becoming as essential as the internet, and that it should therefore be accessible to the public without heavy regulation. Public appetite is growing for AI beyond Big Tech's constraints. Big Tech companies are one of the least trusted groups when it comes to decision-making regarding AI use and development, surpassed only by elected officials. 77% of consumers see deAI as more beneficial to society overall than centralized AI. 1 72% would be more willing to use AI if there were more alternatives to the systems controlled and developed by Big Tech. Two thirds (67%) of consumers see centralized AI as more biased than deAI. 1 Voters are looking for alternatives to centralized AI. A majority of voters (56%) prefer deAI over centralized AI. A majority of both Republicans and Democrats prefer deAI over centralized AI. DeAI and decentralized systems are more favorable to consumers. 71% see deAI as more secure for consumers' personal data than centralized AI. 1 Three-quarters (75%) see deAI as more supportive of innovation and progress than centralized AI. A vast majority (86%) of Americans already see the benefits of AI in their daily lives, and 74% agree that they'd be more comfortable using AI if they knew they could benefit from the use of their personal data. A majority of AI users show preference for deAI over centralized AI. The complete survey findings, along with detailed analysis and recommendations, are available at DCG remains committed to collaborating with policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders to foster a more inclusive and resilient financial system and is actively focused on the growth of decentralized ecosystems, including the decentralized Bittensor network through the recent launch of its subsidiary Yuma. Yuma supports early-stage teams building on Bittensor, providing capital, technical support, community access, and long-term collaboration to help launch and grow subnets. Through its accelerator, incubator, validator, and mining roles, Yuma helps shape a more open and accessible future for AI. DCG and Yuma own $TAO, the native token of the Bittensor ecosystem, and may hold interests in projects built on or supporting Bittensor and other deAI ecosystems. About DCG Founded in 2015 by Barry Silbert, DCG is a global investor, builder, and incubator committed to advancing decentralized ecosystems built on blockchain technology. As the most active investor in the space, DCG has backed over 250 early-stage technology companies across 40 countries and holds more than 70 token and digital asset investments. In addition to its investment portfolio, DCG is the parent company of subsidiaries including Grayscale, Fortitude Mining, Foundry, Luno, and Yuma. For additional information about DCG, visit The Harris Poll Method Statement The research was conducted online in the U.S. by The Harris Poll on behalf of Digital Currency Group among 2,036 U.S. adults aged 18 years or older. The survey was conducted between the 21st of April and the 25th of April. Data are weighted where necessary by age by gender, race/ethnicity, region, education, marital status, household size, employment, household income, political party affiliation, and voter registration status to bring them in line with their actual proportions in the population. Respondents for this survey were selected from among those who have agreed to participate in our surveys. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within ± 3.0 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. This credible interval will be wider among subsets of the surveyed population of interest. All sample surveys and polls, whether or not they use probability sampling, are subject to other multiple sources of error which are most often not possible to quantify or estimate, including, but not limited to coverage error, error associated with nonresponse, error associated with question wording and response options, and post-survey weighting and adjustments. 1 Opinion of the general public when shown blinded descriptions of Decentralized AI and Centralized AI
Asharq Al-Awsat
26-05-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Culture Ministry, Riyadh Air Seek to Integrate Saudi Culture into Travel Experience
The Saudi Ministry of Culture has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the new national carrier, Riyadh Air, to provide a rich and integrated cultural experience for travelers. The partnership aims to highlight national identity and raise awareness of Saudi Arabia's authentic heritage. The signing ceremony was held on Sunday at the ministry's headquarters in Riyadh in the presence of Vice Minister of Culture Hamed Fayez and CEO of Riyadh Air Tony Douglas, representing their respective organizations. The agreement outlines collaboration on seasonal cultural campaigns that will transform Riyadh Air lounges into dynamic spaces showcasing local heritage and promoting cultural exchange with international travelers. Guests will be introduced to heritage sites and national events through booking platforms, in-flight display screens, and curated multimedia content. The campaigns will also include the promotion of cultural shows and the organization of special trips in conjunction with major cultural occasions. To ensure effectiveness, the agreement includes coordination mechanisms for developing cultural content, hosting regular workshops, analyzing travelers' feedback and preferences, and evaluating engagement levels with in-flight and lounge offerings. These efforts aim to tailor the experience to travelers' expectations and align it with the National Strategy for Culture and Riyadh Air's vision of providing inspiring and personalized hospitality. The Ministry of Culture is implementing a series of strategic projects with Riyadh Air to integrate Saudi culture into the travel journey. This initiative represents a key step toward enriching the travel experience through visual and auditory storytelling that reflects the depth of the Kingdom's cultural heritage.
