Air France has announced it is revolutionising its onboard Wi-Fi service, a major step in its move upmarket. From 2025 onwards, the airline will progressively roll out an ultra-high-speed connectivity service for a “ground-like” experience. This new service, completely free of charge in all travel cabins, will be accessible to customers by logging into their Flying Blue* account. Over time, this Wi-Fi service will be made available on board all the airline’s aircraft, replacing the current offer.

China Eastern Airlines inaugurated a new non-stop flights between Shanghai and Venice last week. The carrier will operate the new route three times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Qatar Airways Group has agreed to acquire a minority equity stake (25%) in Virgin Australia (from owner, Bain Capital) in a move that will give the Gulf carrier additional capacity into the lucrative Australian market. In a joint statement today, the Qatari and Australian airlines confirmed plans to strengthen their existing alliance even further, with new non-stop flights to Doha enhancing competition with rival partner airlines, Qantas and Emirates through Dubai.

Hawaiian Airlines is now offering Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency Wi-Fi free of charge to guests onboard all Airbus-operated flights between the islands and the continental US, Asia and Oceania.

Cathay Pacific expands its North America network with a new route to Dallas Fort Worth

South African Airways (SAA) is responding to increasing demand by boosting the frequency of its nonstop flights between Perth and Johannesburg. From 8 December 2024, SAA will increase the frequency of its nonstop South Africa-Australia connection to four flights per week, with a further increase to five flights per week beginning 7 January 2025.

Plaza Premium Group has unveiled a brand-new premium VIP passenger lounge at Hong Kong International Airport. The Infinity Room offers a sanctuary-like space for a selected class of elite travellers as growing passenger traffic in Terminal 1 soars beyond a new post-pandemic daily heights.

Customers travelling in First or Business class onboard connected Cathay Pacific aircraft can now enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi service on their flight.

Air France will introduce three weekly services from its global hub at Paris-Charles de Gaulle to Manila, effective 4 December 2024. The SkyTeam alliance Founding carrier will operate flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays using Airbus A350-900, offering 34 seats in the Business cabin, 24 seats in Premium, and 266 in Economy.

Malaysia Airlines has unveiled plans to commence direct flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. This route, which will commence on 22 March 2025, represents Malaysia Airlines’ 68th destination, reinforcing its position as the gateway to Asia and beyond.

Oman Air is introducing a new Business Studio, set to replace the airline’s First Class product. The new cabin will retain its spacious layout of 1-2-1 with 8 classic lie-flat Studios, Wi-Fi connectivity, but with more affordable fares and a redefined service approach that is tailored to the needs of modern travellers.

Forbes Travel Guide will launch its inaugural Verified Air Travel Awards in October based on input from the world’s top luxury travel advisors and elite global travellers.