Latest news with #passengerexperience
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Arabian Business
Qatar Airways partners with Hans Zimmer to create new airline sonic identity
Qatar Airways has announced a partnership with Oscar and Grammy award-winning composer Hans Zimmer to create a new sonic identity for the airline. The composer will develop a signature sound designed to enhance the passenger experience both onboard aircraft and across other touchpoints. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) Hans Zimmer composes Qatar Airways' sonic identity The collaboration will produce an original score that will be integrated into the airlines' onboard music programming. The composition will also be released as a complete album on streaming platforms and through the airline's official channels. Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, outlined the strategic importance of the partnership. 'At Qatar Airways, we aim to inspire the world with every new horizon and music plays a powerful role in shaping the emotional journey of our passengers, both in the air and on the ground. We are thrilled to partner with Hans Zimmer to compose our new signature music, exclusively for Qatar Airways. This bespoke soundscape will be more than just music; it will be a reflection of our brand's elegance and ambition. Our partnership with Hans Zimmer marks a bold new chapter in the Qatar Airways experience, one that deepens the emotional connection with our passengers and enhances every moment of their journey,' he said. The partnership represents the airlines' commitment to delivering memorable and emotionally resonant journeys for passengers. The new signature sound forms part of the airline's evolving brand identity, channelling the company's ethos of reimagining possibilities through collaboration with Zimmer. 'It's an honour to collaborate with Qatar Airways on this visionary project. Together, we're crafting a sonic experience that reflects the beauty of travel and the pioneering spirit that defines this world-class airline,' Zimmer added. The initiative marks the debut of the carrier's new audio identity and establishes a long-term partnership between the airline and the composer. The soundscape will tap into human experiences that form the foundation of Qatar Airways journeys. The composer, known for multiple Oscar and Grammy awards, will work to develop audio content that reflects the airline's brand values and passenger experience objectives.
Malay Mail
7 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
MAHB targets mid-2028 finish for RM1.55b Penang Airport upgrade
SEPANG, July 18 — Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) aims to complete the Penang International Airport (PIA) expansion project by June 2028, with several phases of work already underway, said group managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani. The expansion project, estimated to cost approximately RM1.55 billion, is designed to address long-term capacity constraints and enhance the passenger experience at one of Malaysia's busiest regional airports. Upon completion, the airport's handling capacity is expected to increase from the current 6.5 million passengers per year to 12 million. The project is being carried out in three phases, he said, with the first phase involving infrastructure works, including the relocation of government agency offices such as the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia and the Malaysian Meteorological Department, which are currently situated within the airport compound. Mohd Izani said work on Phase One has already commenced, while Phase Two, focused on apron expansion, is also progressing, and Phase Three, involving the main terminal expansion, is in the final design stage, with board approval and contractor appointment targeted by year-end. 'The target completion date remains June 2028, and we are committed to meeting that timeline,' Mohd Izani told reporters during a media briefing on MAHB's strategic direction here today. Mohd Izani, who was appointed to the role in August last year, also confirmed that the government has approved the expansion of Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), which is nearing its maximum capacity of nine million passengers annually. MAHB is currently finalising the development plan to expand KKIA's capacity to 12 million passengers and aims to appoint a contractor by year-end. Other tier two airports in the MAHB network are also set for upgrades. These include Tawau, Miri and Kota Bharu. The Tawau and Miri projects will be financed through allocations in the federal development budget. In Kota Bharu, Phase One of the upgrade was completed in August last year and is already operational, while Phase two is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026. Commenting on the Sarawak government's proposal to develop a new international airport to replace the existing Kuching International Airport, Mohd Izani said the matter is still under discussion between the federal and state governments. Under MAHB's operating agreement with the federal government, the company has the first right of refusal to manage any new airport developments. 'We are aware of the state's intention and have been approached for technical assistance. However, any decision on operations will depend on the outcome of the federal-state dialogue,' he said. He noted that Kuching International Airport is not yet fully congested, and questions remain regarding the economic viability of operating two airports in the same city. Regarding Langkawi International Airport, Mohd Izani said recent upgrades have included enhancements to the VIP lounge, noting that he airport has won the award for Best Airport under the five million passengers category for four consecutive years. He said Langkawi's tourism potential remains underutilised, especially in terms of attracting international carriers. 'Langkawi is on par with destinations like Bali and Phuket, but air connectivity remains limited. We need a more collaborative marketing push involving MAHB, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and state tourism agencies,' he said. On Subang Airport, Mohd Izani said the terminal expansion, completed last year at RM22 million, has increased its capacity to three million passengers annually, although jet operations remain limited to 15 movements per day as stipulated by the government. With AirAsia relocating its jet operations to KLIA Terminal 2 and Firefly reportedly planning to end jet operations in Subang, MAHB is reviewing the available slots in consultation with the Ministry of Transport. 'Priority will be given to local carriers, but discussions are ongoing on the possibility of offering the slots to foreign airlines,' he said. — Bernama
Malay Mail
15-07-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Express Rail Link, Meru Utama extend partnership to boost passenger experience with digital assets
KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 — Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL) and Meru Utama Sdn Bhd, operating under the VGI Airports brand, today signed an agreement to extend their strategic partnership, focusing on boosting passenger experience and digital engagement throughout ERL services. The renewed agreement ensures the collaboration continues until 2030, with an expanded focus on delivering high-quality digital content and advertising solutions. New additions to the asset roster include in-train digital screens and additional digital platforms at stations, providing passengers with dynamic and engaging content during their travels. This initiative underscores the companies' shared vision of using technology to enhance passenger experiences and develop innovative advertising opportunities. (From left) ERL acting chief executive officer Yeow Wei-Wen, Meru Utama general manager Herman Lim, ERL alternate director Muhammad Hariz Mohd Nadzmi, Meru Utama director Aznur Azizuddin, Ancom Nylex Berhad executive director Datuk Hasnul Hassan, and executive chairman Datuk Siew Ka Wei pose for a group picture after the concession signing ceremony at ERL Office, KL Sentral station on July 15, 2025. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa The signing ceremony, held at the ERL office at KL Sentral station, saw ERL alternate director Muhammad Hariz Mohd Nadzmi and Meru Utama director Aznur Azizuddin inking the renewed partnership. The event was also attended by Ancom Nylex Bhd executive chairman Datuk Siew Ka Wei, executive director Datuk Hasnul Hassan, ERL acting chief executive officer Yeow Wei-Wen and Meru Utama general manager Herman Lim. Yeow expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and said they are thrilled with the renewed collaboration. 'We are delighted to continue our partnership with Meru Utama, whose expertise in digital media has been instrumental in transforming our communication channels. This extension marks a new chapter in our journey to deliver smarter, more connected rail services. 'By leveraging innovative digital solutions, we aim to enhance passenger engagement, improve service efficiency, and strengthen our brand presence in today's fast-evolving digital landscape,' he added. Echoing similar sentiments, Lim highlighted the success of the ongoing collaboration and remained optimistic for further growth with the renewed partnership. 'Our partnership with ERL over the past two years has been highly successful, demonstrating our strong commitment to supporting ERL's objectives while creating valuable opportunities for brands to engage with passengers. 'Under this exclusive concession agreement, the partnership currently runs until 2030, with an option for a further five-year extension through to 2035,' he added. Highlighting the rising demand for digital out-of-home advertising, Lim said the company has significantly increased its investment in digital assets. 'Thanks to this extended partnership with ERL, we now feature digital screens not only in the stations but also onboard the trains, enabling brands to connect with their audiences seamlessly throughout the entire journey. 'To kick-start this new partnership, Meru Utama is committed to investing over RM1.5 million to upgrade the in-train digital assets this year,' he said.
Daily Mail
11-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
UK's busiest airport to cut queues to less than 5 minutes - but it will push up fares
Heathrow has announced ambitious new plans to cut waiting times at airport security. The UK's busiest airport has pledged that 95 per cent of passengers will pass through security in under five minutes by 2031. Heathrow is also planning to redesign its terminals to improve the passenger experience by creating 70,000 sqm more space for travellers, reports The Times. Terminals 3 and 5 are also set to get more shops and restaurants while the airport has pledged that 99 per cent of bags will arrive in time due to new technology. The airport said the technology would mean that 1.25 million fewer bags ended up lost. Heathrow's new plans will form part of a £10bn investment to upgrade the passenger experience at the major airport. However, airlines have warned this could push up flight prices for consumers. Heathrow is reportedly planning to increase the landing fees it charges airlines by 17 per cent. Airlines have claimed this will have a knock-on impact on plane passengers who will face higher prices for flights. But Thomas Woldbye, Heathrow's chief executive, said the airport requires investment to 'compete' with other 'global hubs'. He said: 'We're making good progress on our strategy to become an extraordinary airport - having become Europe's most punctual major airport so far this year. 'But our customers want us to improve our international rankings further, as do we. 'To compete with global hubs, we must invest. Our five-year plan boosts operational resilience, delivers the better service passengers expect and unlocks the growth capacity airlines want with stretching efficiency targets and a like-for-like lower airport charge than a decade ago.'
Times
10-07-2025
- Business
- Times
Heathrow airport promises five-minute queues by 2031
A seamless passage through security, just a 1 per cent chance that your bag will go missing and an 80 per cent chance your flight departs on time. This was the vision of Heathrow, the UK's biggest airport, as plans were revealed to modernise and improve the passenger experience in the five years to 2031. Among the pledges was a promise that 95 per cent of passengers will queue for less than five minutes at the central security area. The terminals will be redesigned to create 70,000 sq m of new passenger space, partly by reducing back-room functions. New lounges in Terminals 3 and 5 will allow the introduction of shops and restaurants. Heathrow said it would be the first time since Terminal 2 opened in 2014 that passenger space would be expanded. The expansion will allow room for ten million more passengers — it handled 84.2 million in 2024. The airport said that technology upgrades would result in 1.25 million fewer lost bags, meaning 99 per cent would travel at the correct time. The plans, to be delivered between 2027-31, were announced by the airport as it begins negotiations with airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority, the regulator that decides how much Heathrow can charge passengers. According to the airport's latest investor report, the average charge was £26.57 per passenger in 2024. Under the plans this would rise to £33.26. Airlines collect the charges and pass them on. Thomas Woldbye, Heathrow's chief executive, said: 'We're making good progress on our strategy to become an extraordinary airport — having become Europe's most punctual major airport so far this year. But our customers want us to improve our international rankings further, as do we. 'To compete with global hubs, we must invest. Our five-year plan boosts operational resilience, delivers the better service passengers expect and unlocks the growth capacity airlines want with stretching efficiency targets and a like-for-like lower airport charge than a decade ago.' • AI will help make your flight run on time this summer — here's how The plans are designed to improve the image of the UK's only hub airport, which has suffered baggage system failures and faced criticism over outdated terminals. The airport has also promised 'a step-change in service with more choice for passengers requiring additional support'. The latest CAA accessibility report, published last month, ranked Heathrow's special assistance service provision as 'needs improvement'. Edinburgh was the only other major airport in the same category. Last year Sir Tim Clark, the president of Emirates, told The Times last June: 'It looks like a utilitarian structure, post-Second World War. It is just not good enough. 'I'm afraid it's very difficult. You need to open up the whole terminal. Where we are based [in Dubai], new airports are being built employing the latest technologies to streamline the process of all the customer-facing elements. That is not the case at Heathrow.' Heathrow said the improvements would be funded by £10 billion of private investment. • My day with Heathrow's air traffic control — and how it's all about to change The airport has also been drawing up fresh proposals for a third runway after Rachel Reeves, the chancellor, confirmed the government's support for the project in January. The old plans, presented in 2019, included a new terminal and would require the demolition of more than 700 houses in two villages, as well as rerouting the M25 motorway. Heathrow has until July 31 to submit proposals to the Department for Transport. These will be evaluated prior to work beginning on a formal planning application. A spokesman for IAG, which owns British Airways, welcomed Heathrow's intention to improve passenger experience, but said the plan 'requires significant revision. The proposed 25 per cent increase in charges is excessive.' A Virgin Atlantic spokesman said that 'only Heathrow with its monopoly power … would think that this £10 billion investment plan represents value for money and that's before any third runway expansion costs are factored into the equation.'
