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Arab News
4 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Middle East airlines to lead global profit margins at 8.7% in 2025, IATA says
RIYADH: Middle East airlines are forecast to post the world's highest net profit margin in 2025 of 8.7 percent, outpacing global peers, according to the latest industry report. The forecast, released by the International Air Transport Association during its 81st Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, also projects that airlines operating in the Middle East will generate a net profit of $6.2 billion this year — slightly up from $6.1 billion in 2024. The region is also expected to earn $27.20 per passenger. Globally, airlines are projected to record a net profit of $36 billion, with total industry revenue reaching $979 billion — below IATA's earlier $1 trillion estimate, due in part to macroeconomic uncertainties and supply constraints. The growth of the aviation sector in the Middle East reflects broader regional expansion, as countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to bolster the industry as part of their economic diversification efforts. In its report, IATA stated: 'The Middle East will generate the highest net profit per passenger among the regions. Robust economic performance is supporting strong air travel demand, both for business and leisure travel.' It added: 'However, with delays in aircraft delivery, the region will see limitations in capacity as airlines embark on retrofit projects to modernize their fleet, hence limiting growth.' According to IATA, revenue per passenger in 2025 is expected to reach $11.10 in North America, followed by $8.90 in Europe, $3.40 in Latin America, $2.60 in Asia Pacific, and $1.30 in Africa. Global outlook While airlines globally are expected to earn a collective $36 billion in profit in 2025, up from $32.4 billion in 2024, the figure is slightly below the $36.6 billion projected in December. The average net profit per passenger remains modest at $7.20, according to IATA. IATA Director General Willie Walsh said the first half of 2025 has brought notable uncertainty to global markets. Still, he noted, airline performance is expected to surpass 2024 levels, though it will fall slightly short of earlier forecasts. 'The biggest positive driver is the price of jet fuel which has fallen 13 percent compared with 2024 and 1 percent below previous estimates,' he said. Walsh added: 'Moreover, we anticipate airlines flying more people and more cargo in 2025 than they did in 2024, even if previous demand projections have been dented by trade tensions and falls in consumer confidence.' He noted that considering the headwinds, this is a strong result that 'demonstrates the resilience that airlines have worked hard to fortify.' Operating profit for global airlines is expected to reach $66 billion in 2025, up from $61.9 billion the previous year. Total expenses are projected at $913 billion in 2025, marking a 1 percent increase from 2024. 'Our profitability is not commensurate to the enormous value that we create at the heart of a value chain supporting 3.9 percent of global GDP and providing and supporting jobs for 86.5 million people,' said Walsh. Passenger revenue in 2025 is expected to increase by 1.6 percent year on year to reach an all-time high of $693 billion. Passenger growth, measured in revenue passenger km, is projected at 5.8 percent — a normalization following the double-digit growth during the pandemic recovery. Cargo revenues are expected to decline by 4.7 percent to $142 billion in 2025, driven by sluggish global economic growth and trade-dampening protectionist measures, including tariffs. Air cargo growth is expected to slow to 0.7 percent in 2025 from 11.3 percent in 2024. Cargo yield is also projected to decline by 5.2 percent, reflecting slower demand growth and lower oil prices. Fleet and backlog issue The IATA director general criticized aircraft manufacturers for long delivery backlogs, noting that more than 17,000 aircraft are on order, with wait times of up to 14 years, stalling growth opportunities across regions. 'The number of deliveries scheduled for 2025 is 26 percent less than what was promised a year ago,' said Walsh. He warned that the backlog will negatively impact revenues as demand remains unmet, while scarcity drives up maintenance and leasing costs. 'It's just not acceptable that manufacturers estimate it could take until the end of the decade to sort this mess out,' said Walsh. Walsh also highlighted recent infrastructure advancements, including the opening of new secondary airports in New Delhi and Mumbai, and the phased launch of the world's largest airport in Dubai. 'Governments around the world are building a competitive future for aviation because they want aviation to contribute even more to their societies and economies,' added Walsh. Sustainability and SAF Walsh also emphasized the importance of sustainability in aviation, urging the sector to leverage all available decarbonization tools. He called for global cooperation to advance decarbonization efforts. IATA reported that sustainable aviation fuel production is expected to double in 2025 to 2 million tonnes — still only 0.7 percent of total industry fuel usage. The average cost of SAF in 2024 was 3.1 times higher than jet fuel, adding $1.6 billion in costs. In 2025, SAF is expected to cost 4.2 times more than jet fuel, primarily due to 'compliance fees' levied by European fuel suppliers to hedge against the cost of meeting a 2 percent SAF mandate in jet fuel supplies. 'The behavior of fuel suppliers in fulfilling the SAF mandates is an outrage. The cost of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 is estimated to be an enormous $4.7 trillion,' said Walsh. He added: 'Fuel suppliers must stop profiteering on the limited SAF supplies available and ramp up production to meet the legitimate needs of their customers.' Walsh added that under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, airlines are expected to face a $1 billion cost in 2025. Under CORSIA, operators must purchase and cancel emissions units to offset increases in CO2 emissions. 'CORSIA must be successful. It is a credible and verifiable system that requires carbon credits of only the highest standard, making its positive impact on climate unquestionable,' said Walsh.
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Travel + Leisure
7 days ago
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
Flight Attendants Share 5 Genius Ways to Make the Middle Seat the Comfiest Spot on the Plane
Just because the middle seat may seem like the least desirable spot on the plane (which is why it's often the only one left to book), it doesn't mean it has to be miserable. According to flight attendants, with the right mindset (and a few smart travel essentials), you can turn that dreaded middle seat into a surprisingly comfortable experience. 'I suggest reframing the way you view the middle seat,' flight attendant Aura E. Martinez shared. 'Instead of seeing it as a disadvantage, try to embrace the opportunity for connection.' You never know who you'll end up next to, and even if you're not in the mood to chat, being prepared can make all the difference. That means bringing your own entertainment, staying comfortable, and making the most of your personal space. From noise-canceling headphones and supportive neck pillows to slim portable chargers, these flight attendant-approved picks will help make your next middle seat feel a lot more like an upgrade. Plus, prices start at just $13. Reclaim Your Armrest Space Tip: 'The middle seat gets both armrests—that's the rule,' Karen Young, a Delta flight attendant who's been in the industry for 47 years, said. The middle seat often feels like the wild west of the cabin, where everyone seems to spill into your space. But according to flight attendants, claiming your territory starts with the armrests. 'People overflow and morph into the middle seat,' Young shared. 'Those armrests define your space—don't feel pressured to raise them.' Fellow flight attendant Crista Treat agrees: 'Establish dominance first with the armrests, because those are yours.' A good strategy? Keep your elbows gently anchored and resist the urge to cave to your seatmates' spread. If one of them reclines, Carin, a seasoned flight attendant, suggested, 'Wiggle your elbow into the back edge of the armrest. They'll likely move, and you get your space back." What to pack: EverSnug Travel Blanket Amazon This lightweight, ultra-packable blanket can double as your personal barrier. Carin swears by wrapping yourself 'like swaddling an infant' to avoid armrest disputes. 'You'll likely wake up to find your neighbors have repositioned,' she added. Bonus: This one attaches easily to your carry-on and spares you from those scratchy airline blankets. Get Comfortable Enough to Sleep Tip: "A good neck pillow is key,' Treat suggested. 'Sleeping through half the flight helps you forget you're stuck in the middle.' The best way to make the middle seat disappear? Sleep through it. A supportive neck pillow and an eye mask not only help you drift off faster but also keep your head from bobbing onto your seatmate's shoulder (never a great first impression). What to pack: Cabeau Evolution S3 Neck Pillow Amazon With memory foam construction and seat straps that anchor it in place, this Cabeau neck pillow is a game-changer. 'It comes with a small carry bag where you can put your cell phone, lip gloss, etc, in so you don't need to reach for your bag in the overhead bin,' Martinez shared after dubbing the Cabeau version as her go-to neck pillow. Now, you don't have to rummage through the overhead bin midflight. What to pack: Trtl Travel Pillow Amazon Carin, on the other hand, called Trtl's compact pick her go-to. 'I love the secure closure—it doesn't slide off while you're napping,' she explained. Its sleek, scarf-like design makes it perfect for middle seat naps, offering structured neck support without the bulk. Create a Personal Bubble Tip: 'It's about creating a little cocoon,' Martinez advised. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask can transform your seat into a private zone. The key to surviving the middle seat? Mentally checking out. Layering sound-blocking headphones with a good eye mask signals to your neighbors and your brain that you're off the clock. What to pack: JBL Noise-Canceling Headphones Amazon 'These fold up easily, last for 75 hours, and don't break your heart if you lose them,' Carin said of JBL's top-rated headphones. She added that they're preferred among her crew and way better than 'chasing them around on the dirty aircraft floor.' Plus, she noted the noise-canceling feature is one of her favorite assets and emphasized how effective they are. These headphones are also foldable, so they fit seamlessly into your carry-on. What to pack: Bose QuietComfort Noise-canceling Headphones Amazon Looking to invest in real peace and quiet? Martinez recommends this premium pair from Bose. 'They're a game changer in tight spaces,' she said, allowing you to zone out even when you're sandwiched between two strangers. What to pack: Mzoo Sleep Mask Amazon This memory foam blackout eye mask has air holes for breathability and an adjustable strap to fit every head. The best part? It contours to your eyes, so there's no pressure on your lids while you nap, even in the dreaded middle. Keep Your Circulation Flowing Tip: 'A foldable seat cushion improves circulation on long flights,' Martinez shared. Chiming in, Carin added, 'Compression sleeves are a must for anything over four hours.' Middle seats often mean less freedom to stretch, so it's extra important to keep your blood flowing. A supportive seat cushion can ease pressure points, while compression socks and sleeves help fend off swelling and fatigue. What to pack: ComfiLife Ergo-gel Travel Seat Cushion Amazon Say goodbye to numb legs. This traveler-loved cushion's gel grid relieves pressure and keeps things cool. 'I used this on two 8-hour flights,' one Amazon reviewer said, 'and it kept my sciatic pain from flaring up.' What to pack: Zensah Compression Sleeves Amazon Carin said she won't board a long-haul flight without Zensah's compression sleeves. 'They make a huge difference for circulation and fatigue,' she mentioned. Slide them on before takeoff and keep your legs feeling light, even after hours in the air. Stay Self-sufficient Tip: 'Bring your own water and snacks so you don't have to bug the aisle person,' Treat recommended. Being in the middle often means waiting until the beverage cart rolls by—or worse, asking your seatmate to get up. Avoid the awkwardness by having everything you need within reach. What to pack: Yctmall Collapsible Water Bottle Amazon This space-saving travel bottle folds down flat when empty and is lightweight enough to stash in any bag. Fill it up post-security and stay hydrated without shelling out for overpriced airport drinks. What to pack: Charmast Portable Charger Amazon With Charmast's best-selling portable charger, an outlet war between you and your seatmates isn't necessary. It works with all smartphones and saves you from digging around for cords. It's fast, reliable, and ideal for recharging on the go. Bring entertainment Tip: 'Just in case the entertainment system doesn't work, it's always best to be prepared,' Martinez said. There's nothing worse than settling into your middle seat only to find the in-flight screen frozen or, worse, not there at all. To avoid relying on glitchy airline tech, seasoned flight attendants recommend loading up your own content in advance. Whether you're bingeing a new series or catching up on your book list, coming equipped with your own screen can turn a frustrating flight into a productive or relaxing one. What to pack: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Amazon Amazon's popular Kindle e-reader is slim, lightweight, and built for battery longevity, lasting up to 10 weeks on a single charge. The glare-free screen feels like real paper (even in direct sunlight), and it won't strain your eyes during a long haul. Load it up with travel guides, thrillers, or that beach read you've been meaning to finish—no Wi-Fi required. What to pack: Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet Amazon This versatile Amazon Fire tablet has a 13-hour battery life, a vibrant 10-inch screen, and access to all your streaming apps—from Netflix to Prime Video. Download your shows before boarding, and you're set, even if the seatback screen lets you down. It also doubles as an entertainment hub for your next hotel night, too. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
The Guardian
28-05-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Stand up too early when your plane lands? That'll be £50, please
Name: Aeroplane etiquette. Age: Dates to 1903, when Wilbur Wright ceded his seat to his brother Orville for the first powered flight. Appearance: For the most part, long gone. What happened to it? Stress tends to make people less self-aware – and therefore less polite – and air travel seems to get more stressful with each passing year. I guess you can't force people to be courteous. You can try. The Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation has just announced compliance measures for passengers who stand up too early on landing. How early is too early? Before the plane has stopped taxiing. Well, obviously. That's dangerous, and anyway, you're not going to get anywhere at that point. But also, before it's your go. What do you mean, my go? According to the announcement, you may not 'stand up or proceed into the aisle before it is your turn to exit'. And what happens if you do? 'Passengers who do not comply with the rules will be reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation through a Disruptive Passenger Report, and an administrative fine will be imposed.' How much? According to some reports, 2,603 Turkish lira, or £50. Harsh. Then again, if it happened to a couple of people on my next flight it would brighten my day considerably. It's hard to travel these days without wishing punishment on others. What other breaches ought to incur hefty fines? As you can imagine, this is a hot topic, but two iron rules of plane etiquette crop up again and again. First, keep your shoes on. For the whole flight? At a minimum, wear socks. Absolutely no bare feet. And the second? The person in the aisle seat has the aisle, and the window seat passenger has the window. Therefore the person in the middle seat gets command of both armrests. What about reclining your seat? Yes or no? A matter of much dispute – some people believe that if your seat is reclinable, then it's your right to recline it. There's a certain logic to that. Others think it's always rude. But the dispute itself can get you into trouble. Last year, Cathay Pacific banned a couple for harassing a passenger who had dared to recline the seat in front of them. This is why I wear headphones. True – it's easier to be rude when you can't hear anything. Do say: 'Manners cost nothing, unlike business class.' Don't say: 'I will gladly pay £50 to get away from these people 40 seconds sooner.'
Daily Mail
19-05-2025
- Daily Mail
Seat squatter's appalling behavior after being ordered out of business class and back into economy
Air travel has become increasingly frustrating - with many passengers complaining about 'seat squatters' who steal their assigned seats and refuse to move out of them. Stories from passengers have gone viral online, sparking a debate over when travelers should give up their seats. Donna Casey purchased a $4,300 Hawaiian Airlines business class ticket for her trip to Honolulu, but when she boarded her flight and approached seat 3C, she discovered someone in her spot. 'I told her nicely, "I think you're in my seat," and she just stared at me,' Casey told The Boston Globe. 'I said it again, and she said, "There are plenty of seats in this section, maybe try another one." I was like, "Is she for real?"' Casey called over the flight attendant, who asked to see their boarding passes. When the seat squatter showed hers, it revealed that her pass was for 39C. 'What was strange is that this woman never apologized and looked angry that I wanted the seat I had paid for,' Casey said 'She even took my amenities bag with her when she huffed off to the back of the plane.' The seat squatter had a ticket for a spot in the back of the plane and fumed off from business class (pictured) with Casey's amenity bag when a flight attendant made her move Etiquette expert Nick Leighton told the outlet he recently had to deal with a seat squatter on a flight from New York to the West Coast. 'A gentleman was in my seat, and he said, "Oh, do you prefer the aisle?" And I said, yes. And we just left it at that. It was not a negotiation,' Leighton said. 'I think he was hoping there would be more conversation. But I do prefer the aisle. That is why I booked it, and there was really no conversation to be had. I was direct and polite.' Leighton said having good etiquette and being polite does not require you to give up your seat. 'There is a decision that has to be made. We are going to be with this person for the journey. That could be hours and hours. So the etiquette calculation is slightly different because we have to now live with the etiquette consequences,' he said. 'But etiquette does not require you to be a pushover. Etiquette does not require your boundaries to be crossed. It is possible to set boundaries and be polite at the same time.' Jeniffer Castro, 29, was publicly berated by a furious mom after refusing to swap seats with her toddler. She was filmed calmly ignoring the angry mother's request after she boarded the GOL Airlines domestic flight in Brazil in December. When she boarded the plane, Castro found a toddler sitting in her window seat, and asked him to move, which caused the tot to start crying. 'A guy across the aisle said "Change with him, you sit next to the aisle and he'll have your place,"' she said. 'I said "no."' After refusing, the boy cried for the rest of the entire 50-minute flight from Rio de Janeiro to Belo Horizonte and the mother pulled out her phone and started filming. In the video, the annoyed mom asked her why she didn't want to change seats. 'I even asked if she had some kind of syndrome or something,' she taunted. 'If someone has a problem, some disability, we understand. 'I'm recording your face, this is disgusting. It's the 21st century and people have no empathy for children.' Despite the criticism, Castor didn't respond to the fuming mother and only asked if she was being filmed. On a recent episode of the Cola Mais Podcast, Castro revealed that she's now considering taking legal action after the video went viral. One Delta seat squatter tried to trade his window seat for another to avoid being hemmed in beside a huge middle seat flier with a 'linebacker build.' A user on Reddit shared an infuriating experience flying on the airline after they boarded to find a man sitting in their window seat they'd reserved especially, only for him to gesture that they sit in his window seat across the aisle. The gentleman who had commandeered the user's seat motioned toward the opposite side of the plane to the window seat across the aisle and said, 'Take that one.' As they turned to look across the plane to where the man gestured, the user noticed a 'rather large linebacker-built' man sitting in the middle seat. Tammy Nelson, the CEO of global jewelry brand CONQUERing, refused to give up her window seat to a mom who wanted to sit next to her two kids. Nelson, who had only 90 minutes of sleep the night before and had to prepare a presentation to 500 people when she landed, booked a window seat on purpose. She said she arrived at her row to find the unidentified mom in the window seat. On being told the seat was reserved, the mom said she wanted to sit next to her children, who Nelson estimated were aged 11 and 15. The mom offered to swap her seat with Nelson, but Nelson refused on discovering she was being offered a dreaded middle seat in another row. Nelson said the mom seethed on being refused and muttered angrily about the rejection for the remainder of the flight.
National Post
13-05-2025
- Business
- National Post
Transatlantic summer travel set to cool, booking trends show
Transatlantic travel is set to cool substantially this summer, with demand from both sides of the Atlantic down near double digits, based on a sampling of booking data compiled by aviation analytics company Cirium. Article content Bookings from North America to Europe have declined by almost 10% for the months of June, July and August compared with the same period last year, Cirium said. Article content Article content While they aren't comprehensive — they represent a small sample of sales to popular destinations — they suggest what many airlines alluded to in a spate of earnings recently: that transatlantic air travel is slowing under the combined weight of market instability, an ongoing trade war and stricter policing at US borders. Article content Among the European cities with the sharpest decline in travel bookings are Munich, Amsterdam, Athens and Rome. Lisbon is the only one of the continent's major cities set to record an uplift. Article content
