Brussels, Belgium: Brussels Airport is expecting over 1 million passengers during the Christmas holidays, setting a new record, surpassing its 2019 Christmas break high of 988,000 passengers.
The busiest day of the holiday was on 20 December, with 72,000 passengers. They were also able to enjoy a unique Christmas concert that day by the ‘Scaletta Choir’, the children’s and youth choir of ‘Scala’.
It will be pleasantly busy during the Christmas break at Brussels Airport. From 20 December, to 5 January, the airport is expecting a record-breaking number of over one million passengers, a significant increase from 850,000 last year.
The previous record was set during the Christmas holidays of 2019, with 988,000 travellers, just before the onset of the Covid crisis. The holiday season kicks off on 20 December, which will also be the busiest day, with around 72,000 passengers expected, including 40,000 departing travellers.
This winter season, travellers can choose from 142 direct destinations worldwide, including a few new options like Bangkok, Curaçao, and Tromsø. Classic winter sports destinations like Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Kittila also continue to be popular choices over the Christmas break. Passengers seeking sunny destinations can choose from the Canary Islands, Egypt, the Cape Verde Islands, Morocco, Tunisia, and more.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: As infrastructure and operations are reshaped, the global airport industry revenues are set to reach US$194.4 billion in 2024 with about 9.5 billion passengers traveling this year domestically and internationally.
The Airports Council International (ACI) World, in its annual World Airport Traffic Report, forecasts global passenger traffic to increase by 10 percent, reaching 9.5 billion passengers in 2024, based on data from over 2,700 airports across 180 countries.
In 2023, it stood at 8.7 billion, reaching 95 percent of pre-pandemic levels. By the end of 2024, international passenger traffic will reach 4.1 billion, accounting for 43 percent of total passengers. The domestic passenger traffic is expected to reach 5.4 billion, making up 57 percent of the total.
ACI World further projects that the global airport investment is set to reach US$2,404 billion in 2040 while the Middle East aviation market is due to reach US$33.70 billion size by 2029. Middle Eastern airports are due to spend US$151 billion on the expansion of their capacity and enhancing passenger and cargo facilities.
Technologies and Innovations for fast-rising air traffic
The best and most effective ways for airports to handle the fast-rising air traffic and the effective deployment of the newest technologies and innovations will be under the spotlight at the Airport Show, the 24th edition of which will be held in 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from May 6 to 8.
Unparalleled networking and business opportunities await the industry stakeholders and professionals with a big number of exhibitors coming from all over the world and four major co-located knowledge-enhancing conferences taking place over three days.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Patron of Airport Show, remarked: “Airports are vital connectors and economic engines for communities and countries.”
He added that Dubai, a key hub at the crossroads of global travel, is investing US$35 billion in the second phase of development of the Al Maktoum International – Dubai World Central (DWC) to become the world’s largest airport with a capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually, Sheikh Ahmed said airports across the region are also modernizing and expanding to meet growing demand, with a combined project value of over US$1.3 trillion across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.
He asserted that the Airport Show, organized by RX, continues to be a vital stage for business growth and expansion in the airport industry.
By the mid-2030s, ICAO predicts that over 200,000 flights will take off and land daily all over the world. By 2036, the air transport industry will contribute US$1.5 trillion to global GDP. By 2040, airports in the Middle East will handle 1.1 billion passengers, with the Middle East and Asia-Pacific accounting for 58 percent of global air passenger demand.”
The Airport Show is the Middle East, Africa and South Asia’s leading airport exhibition for 110-odd airport operators and their associates in the Middle East. The 2025 edition is expected to have a total of 160 exhibitors from 20+ countries along with more than 6,000 participants from 30+ countries.
The show will feature four insightful conferences on its sidelines – the Global Airport Leaders Forum (GALF), Airport Security Middle East, the ATC Forum, and Women in Aviation (WIA). The annual multi-events platform is being supported, among others, by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Airports, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, Emirates Airlines, Dubai Air Navigation Services, and the Dubai-based global airline and dnata.
Airports transitioning to more digitalized environment
A Market Outlook report by Beumer Group, says the airport industry is further optimizing airport processes and the passenger experience to “radically change the way we fly.”
Latest technology and automation solutions are reshaping airport operations and improving passenger experience while sustainability strategies are under the spotlight to meet the passenger need for improved Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance.”
Passenger experience at airports is becoming crucial in 2025, which will be a record-breaking year for passenger volume, revenue generation, and setting standards higher.
The airport industry is moving from a pre-digital to a post-digital age. The use of technology during travel will have a profound impact on how passengers interact with airports with demand focused more on automation and hands-on control over each step of their journey.
Liege, Belgium: Liege Airport (LGG) reported a strong performance in October 2024 with notable increases in both cargo aircraft movements and tonnage handled, underscoring its resilience and adaptability in the global logistics market.
Compared to October 2023, which saw 2,120 cargo aircraft movements, LGG recorded a 20% increase in October 2024, reaching 2,553 movements. During the period, the airport saw a 16% increase in tonnage, handling 103,429 tons compared to 89,453 in October last year.
“This growth reflects our airport’s strategic position and ongoing investments,” said Torsten Wefers, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Liege Airport. “As Europe’s leading hub for cargo traffic, we continue to expand our role as a major center for e-commerce, floral shipments, and pharmaceuticals.”
Wefers added, “If this growth trajectory holds, 2024 will mark our second-strongest year to date, following only the exceptional COVID-peak in 2021. Our flexible business model has allowed us to weather significant changes, including the restructuring of a major client and the exit of AirBridge Cargo, which reduced annual volumes by 300,000 tons. Through ongoing diversification of our airline partnerships and growth in our freight forwarding community, we have become less reliant on any single customer.”
Liege Airport says it remains committed to adapting to market dynamics and expanding its footprint as a critical logistics hub in Europe, driven by a versatile approach that continues to attract new partners and bolster operational resilience.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading air cargo carrier, has launched a new strategic partnership with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group, marking a significant milestone in enhancing its global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency.
Qatar Airways Cargo Chief Officer Cargo Mark Drusch and MASkargo Chief Executive Mark Jason Thomas jointly announced their collaboration which officially began on 01 October 2024. Since then, they have successfully moved 2,400 tons of cargo, including over 600 tons of perishables and 130 tons of pharmaceuticals.
Qatar Airways Cargo Boeing 777 flights now fly from Doha to Kuala Lumpur twice a week, increasing weekly cargo capacity by over 200 tons. The strategic partnership will further solidify connectivity and efficiency to Sydney and Melbourne with MASkargo Airbus A330 freighters carrying more than 75 tons of weekly cargo capacity to these cities, with a swift connection time of just 8 hours in Kuala Lumpur.
Their strategic hubs at Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) will play a pivotal role, providing seamless connections and state-of-the-art handling facilities.
The agreement benefits both parties, allowing MASkargo to access key points in Europe, GCC, Levant and Africa, while Qatar Airways Cargo gains increased capacity access to Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and North East Asia. It also supports the local market in Kuala Lumpur by enabling the export of products to more global markets.
“As the world’s leading global air cargo carrier, this partnership with MASkargo is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional service and tailored solutions while expanding our global network through sponsorships. By combining our strengths, we are able to offer our customers enhanced connectivity and efficiency, ensuring their products reach global markets in optimal condition. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings and remain committed to setting the standard for excellence in the air cargo industry,” said Drusch.
Thomas, added: “Today marks an exciting step forward for MASkargo as we join forces with Qatar Airways Cargo to create a truly interconnected global cargo network. With this partnership, MASkargo is now better positioned than ever to serve as a bridge between South East Asia and key international destinations. This alliance with Qatar Airways Cargo strengthens our infrastructure and capacity, empowering us to support the regional economy and facilitate the movement of high-demand goods to a larger global market, furthermore, setting new standards in cargo transportation.”
In July 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver an enhanced product offering to cargo customers and achieve operational synergies. This strategic joint cargo business agreement allows both airlines to leverage each other’s network strengths and fleet capacity, significantly increasing cargo offerings.
Munich, Germany: Munich Airport is driving technological innovations to optimize operational processes in collaboration with the Lufthansa Group and the jointly operated Terminal 2 company.
Since mid-October, the use of a remote-controlled passenger bridge has been tested. During the six-month pilot phase, various real-life conditions, such as weather influences or obstacles in the stairway’s driving area, will be tested using a modified passenger bridge.
The long-term plan is to equip all passenger bridges with innovative control systems. In addition to the “remote” approach, a fully automated, AI-supported control system is also being considered for Terminal 2.
During the test phase, the passenger bridge will be operated from a container set up as a temporary control center. The initial test runs will be conducted using a plane mock-up. The successful launch of a test run with the Spanish specialist DIMAIM demonstrates the progress in this area.
Another joint project is the introduction of an unloading aid in the baggage handling system at Terminal 2. This optimized system enables more efficient handling of luggage and freight by easing the transport between baggage carts and the baggage claim belt. The unloading aid significantly reduces the physical effort for employees in operational areas, as suitcases and bags no longer need to be manually lifted from the baggage carts.
“We are very pleased to advance innovative projects like this together with the Lufthansa Group and the Terminal 2 company. The close and collaborative partnership allows us to develop forward-thinking solutions and sustainably strengthen Munich Airport,” says Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport.
“It is a significant step to take a leading role at our Munich hub. Our goal is to offer our guests a premium travel experience – automation and the focus on future technologies are key pieces of the puzzle on our way there,” adds Jens Ritter, CEO of Lufthansa Airlines.
Doha, Qatar: Hamad International Airport (DOH) announces the expansion of its connectivity to China with the launch of direct flights to Shenzhen, operated by Shenzhen Airlines. This new route marks the airport’s ninth destination in China and Shenzhen Airlines first destination in the Middle East.
On October 29, 2024, Shenzhen Airlines began operating the new Doha-Shenzhen route three times a week, with flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The service is operated using Shenzhen Airlines’ Airbus A330-300, offering a total of 300 seats across business, premium economy, and economy classes. The aircraft features 16 lie-flat business class seats, 23 premium economy seats, and 261 economy class seats.
Following the Shenzhen aircraft’s touchdown at Hamad International Airport, a ceremony was hosted by the airport to commemorate the launch of the new route. Mr. Hamad Ali Al-Khater, Chief Operating Officer of Hamad International Airport welcomed His Excellency Cao Xiaolin, Chinese Ambassador to the State of Qatar, Mr. Li Chuanwei, Board Member & Vice President of Shenzhen Airlines, and other distinguished guests from Qatar and China. The ceremony featured a symbolic ribbon-cutting and exchange of gifts, solidifying the strong partnership between the two nations.
Commenting on the new partnership, Hamad Ali Al-Khater, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, said: “As Shenzhen Airlines commences operations on the new Doha-Shenzhen route, marking its first destination in the Middle East, it not only strengthens Qatar’s connectivity with China but also provides passengers with greater travel options and contributes to economic growth.
Our traffic performance between Qatar and China has shown remarkable growth, increasing by almost 100 per cent last year, reflecting the strong demand for travel between our nations. We look forward to a long and successful partnership with Shenzhen Airlines and are committed to provide the highest level of service and support.”
Established in 1992, Shenzhen Airlines operates a fleet of over 200 aircraft, connecting major domestic cities in China with key international destinations across East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Europe. As a member of the Star Alliance since 2012, Shenzhen Airlines has continuously expanded its global network, with the Doha service representing a significant step in linking China to more destinations worldwide.
Shenzhen, often referred to as China’s “Silicon Valley,” is a global hub for technology, international trade, and finance, housing world-class companies such as Huawei, Tencent, and DJI. Its strategic location in Guangdong Province, across from Hong Kong, positions it as a critical centre for economic and technological growth. The new Doha-Shenzhen route will enhance collaboration between the two cities, promote stronger business ties, and contribute to increased economic activity in both regions.
Since its inauguration in 2014, Hamad International Airport has emerged as a leading global aviation hub, continuously expanding and enhancing its network. Recent partnerships reflect Qatar’s commitment to strengthening its tourism offerings, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030. Hamad International Airport’s innovative air service development strategy has been pivotal in attracting numerous airlines and establishing seamless routes, reinforcing the airport’s position as a critical gateway for global connectivity.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi Airports announced the full transition of the new state-of-the-art United States Customs and Border Protection (US CBP) facility to Zayed International Airport (AUH), eliminating the need for lengthy queues upon arrival in the US and ensuring a smooth and expedited journey for all passengers when travelling to the United States from Abu Dhabi.
Following a smooth transition and close collaboration with US CBP, the new facility underwent an extensive and thorough vetting process confirming all protocols, and readiness of systems, equipment and personnel. The new US CBP facility will allow passengers to complete all US immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before departing from AUH.
The facility features a cutting-edge biometric technology platform, including facial comparison capture devices at dedicated CBP boarding gates, along with corresponding agent display devices, further enhancing security and efficiency.
“On behalf of Abu Dhabi Airports, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to our team and our partners at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their exemplary and collaborative teamwork. This facility strengthens our ambition to be a leading travel hub, offering passengers a distinctive travel experience that is unparalleled in our region. We are incredibly proud to have completed the transition of the new U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility to Zayed International Airport,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, described it as a “milestone” that “reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as the most convenient gateway to the United States for travellers from across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and Asia, and we are proud to offer our guests this unparalleled experience.”
“With all Etihad flights now pre-clearing in Abu Dhabi, our guests can bypass arrival queues and, if connecting within the US, enjoy seamless transfers with minimal connection times through our partner airlines. Our guests consistently tell us they value the efficiency and security that clearing customs before they arrive in the US affords them, and this is one of the many reasons they choose Etihad,” he added.
The unveiling of the new US CBP facility comes just days ahead of Zayed International Airport’s first anniversary celebrations, further cementing its position as a leading global aviation hub.
Dammam, KSA: Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has officially launched on 28 October its inaugural flight from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam to Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China.
The new route will operate twice a week in each direction, as part of a connecting flight from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. Saudia is using Boeing B787 Dreamliner for Dammam which becomes the third city from which the airline operates flights to Beijing, following Jeddah and Riyadh.
Saudia celebrated the inaugural flight from Dammam to Beijing with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in the departure hall. The event was attended by Mr. Wang Qimin, The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, Engr. Mohammed Al-Hassany, CEO of Dammam Airports Company (DACO), and Mr. Wail Basaffar, the Assistant Vice President of KSA Sales at Saudia.
Eng. Mohammed bin Ali Al-Hassany, CEO of Dammam Airports Company, said: “The launch of flights to Beijing, in partnership with Saudia, reflects our commitment to diversifying the international destinations of King Fahd International Airport to meet travelers’ aspirations and enhance their experience. This initiative is part of our plan to develop international air traffic, aiming to attract new airlines and increase direct destinations, which will support economic and tourism growth in the Eastern Province.”
Mr. Wail Basaffar, Assistant Vice President of KSA Sales at Saudia, said: “This new route is a testament to Saudia’s innovative and flexible operational model, which leverages our main hub in Jeddah as a cornerstone of our strategic plan. We also utilize other major airports for connecting flights to meet growing demand and cater to all guest segments. Our modern and expanding fleet further enhances the travel experience, ensuring we not only meet but exceed our guests’ expectations.”
Saudia remains dedicated to its role as a key player in promoting international travel and tourism, aligning with its objective to bring the world to the Kingdom. The airline has achieved impressive growth in demand for flights between the Kingdom and China. Since launching operations to Beijing, Saudia has transported over 84,890 guests on 482 flights.
Brussels, Belgium: From 27 October, Latin American airline LATAM Cargo will triple the number of flights to Brussels Airport, from four to 12 per week, making it the airline’s main European transport hub, officials announced.
The flights will be operated by a Boeing 767F which has a 60-ton capacity. The aircraft will mainly ship flowers from Ecuador to Europe, returning to Latin America with pharmaceuticals.
Since March 2023, LATAM Cargo, the largest cargo airline group in Latin America, has been operating at Brussels Airport again with four flights a week and will bring that to 12 weekly flights from next month.
The inbound flights will mainly ship perishable goods, such as flowers, from Ecuador to Europe. The aircraft then return towards Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Chile carrying pharmaceuticals, as well as other time critical cargo and automotive parts. The flights will also use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
LATAM’s choice for Brussels Airport confirms Brussels Airport position and expertise as a preferred pharma hub and indispensable link between local pharmaceutical research and production facilities, and hospitals and patients worldwide.
For many years, the airport has been specializing in transporting time-and-temperature critical goods with the largest area of temperature-controlled warehouses in Europe and by using refrigerated containers for transport on the tarmac, ensuring the cold chain of products is not interrupted.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates:Dubai Airports has officially opened its first Assisted Travel Lounge at Terminal 2 of Dubai International (DXB), setting a new benchmark for accessible travel.
This lounge is the first of its kind, designed to comprehensively address the diverse needs of People of Determination (POD), including those with autism and hidden disabilities, offering a safe, comfortable space within the bustling airport environment.
A collaborative effort by Dubai Airports and dnata, the lounge operator, the Assisted Travel Lounge reinforces Dubai Airports’ commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. This pilot lounge is part of a multi-million-dirham programme, with future expansion plans already in place to open similar lounges in other terminals.
Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, said: “This lounge reflects our dedication to ensuring that DXB is a welcoming space for People of Determination. It is a unique facility, meticulously designed to align with Dubai’s vision of being a truly inclusive city for all. It ensures that every detail, from the ambience to the furniture, contributes to a calm and accessible environment and is a major leap forward in our mission to create a seamless travel experience for all guests, regardless of their individual needs.”
The lounge’s thoughtful design, created by Dubai Airports’ design team, exemplifies key principles that align with the values and ambitions of both DXB and the city of Dubai. Prioritising user needs, the design seamlessly integrates each element within the broader context of the airport’s spaces, enhancing the overall guest experience.
The interior design reflects Dubai’s forward-thinking spirit, blending modern aesthetics with functionality. Guided by the Dubai Universal Design Code, the lounge features designated wheelchair areas, tactile surfaces for easy navigation, dedicated seating for the hearing-impaired that facilitates face-to-face communication with employees, a decompression zone for individuals with autism, and a dedicated area for unaccompanied minors. Materials, finishes, and lighting have been thoughtfully selected to create a serene atmosphere, offering travellers a peaceful retreat.
Jaffar Dawood, Senior Vice President, Airport Operations – UAE and MEA, dnata, said: “We are committed to making air travel more inclusive and accommodating for passengers with diverse needs. This unique lounge marks an important milestone in providing extra comfort and care to people of determination. Our experienced, highly trained team will make every effort to deliver an exceptional experience for all visitors. Together with Dubai Airports, we look forward to further enhancing our services for a seamless journey for everyone.”
The flagship lounge is a key element of Dubai Airports’ broader POD strategy, designed to cater to the diverse needs of all guests. This strategy encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at ensuring an inclusive and seamless travel experience, including the Sunflower Lanyard Programme, which discreetly identifies and assists POD guests, granting access to priority lanes and an autism-friendly route, prioritising check-in, passport control, security checkpoints, and boarding.
Additionally, DXB offers a bespoke hidden disability service training programme for airport employees, complimentary two-hour parking, dedicated taxis, and wheelchair services, all significant milestones in DXB’s commitment to making travel accessible to everyone.
These efforts have garnered significant recognition for Dubai Airports. In 2022, DXB received an accreditation from the Airports Council International (ACI) under its Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation Programme, a first-of-its-kind initiative that recognises global airports’ commitment to accessible travel operations.
The airport was also certified as Autism-friendly by Dubai Autism Centre (DAC) and became the first international airport to earn a certified Autism Centre (CAC) designation, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
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