With this new firm order for 500 aircraft in the 2030-2035 time-frame, IndiGo’s order-book now boasts almost 1,000 aircraft, securing a steady stream of deliveries well into the next decade…reports Asian Lite News
IndiGo Airlines has made a ground-breaking announcement regarding the placing of an order for a staggering 500 Airbus A320 family aircraft, scheduled to be delivered between 2030 and 2035.
The purchase agreement was finalised at the Paris Air Show 2023, with representatives from IndiGo and Airbus present.
In a statement on Monday, IndiGo confirmed that the engine selection and the precise mix of A320 and A321 aircraft will be determined in due course.
Currently operating a fleet of over 300 aircraft, IndiGo already has outstanding orders for 480 aircraft, expected to be delivered by the end of this decade.
With this new firm order for 500 aircraft in the 2030-2035 time-frame, IndiGo’s order-book now boasts almost 1,000 aircraft, securing a steady stream of deliveries well into the next decade.
IndiGo’s order comprises a combination of A320NEO, A321NEO, and A321XLR aircraft.
“This substantial investment further strengthens the strategic partnership between IndiGo and Airbus, which has been evolving since the airline’s inception in 2006. In fact, IndiGo has now ordered a remarkable total of 1,330 aircraft from Airbus, reflecting their confidence in the A320 Family and their commitment to growth,” it said.
The fuel-efficient A320NEO Family aircraft align perfectly with IndiGo’s vision of reducing operating costs and enhancing fuel efficiency, while maintaining exceptional reliability standards.
“With a young and fuel-efficient fleet, IndiGo aims to achieve its sustainability goals, building upon the already impressive 21 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions between FY16 and FY23. The airline anticipates welcoming 100 million passengers on board this year, solidifying its role as a vital contributor to India’s aviation landscape,” it said.
Expressing the magnitude of the order, Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, said that it is difficult to overstate the significance of IndiGo’s new historic order for 500 Airbus A320 Family aircraft.
“An order book now of almost 1.000 aircraft well into the next decade, enables IndiGo to fulfill its mission to continue to boost economic growth, social cohesion and mobility in India. At IndiGo, we take pride in being India’s preferred airline for connectivity in and with India; and by doing so, being one of the leading airlines in the world. This order strongly reaffirms IndiGo’s belief in the growth of India, in the A320 Family and in our strategic partnership with Airbus,” said Elbers.
Six Senses Fort Barwara, located about two and a half hours’ drive from Jaipur and just 30 minutes by car from Ranthambore National Park, is a remarkable fort-hotel constructed in the 14th century by the Chauhans…reports Asian Lite News
Father’s Day is an extraordinary moment, a time to honour the remarkable fathers who have graced our lives with their love and guidance. On this auspicious occasion, let us transcend the realm of ordinary celebrations and embark on a magnificent sojourn that will transport your father to a world of unparalleled opulence and regal grandeur. Prepare to indulge him in a retreat where he can walk in the footsteps of kings, immerse himself in the tapestry of history, and be showered with the utmost appreciation and adoration.
These architectural marvels stand as testaments to the bygone era, where every brick and stone holds the weight of captivating stories and legendary tales. Prepare to be mesmerised as you step into a realm where time stands still, and the very air whispers secrets of the past.
Each palace boasts an exquisite fusion of architectural brilliance, awe-inspiring opulence, and captivating aesthetics that will leave you breathless. Honour his unwavering presence and unwavering support with a gesture that will forever be etched in his heart. Choose one of these regal havens and embark on a journey that will transcend time, creating an indelible mark on your father’s soul. Prepare to embark on a grand adventure where every moment is adorned with extravagance and every experience is bathed in luxury.
Umaid Bhawan, Jodhpur
The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is one of the largest private residences in the world. Built in 1943, this magnificent palace is now a luxury hotel that offers an unforgettable experience to its guests. The palace features 347 rooms and suites that are decorated with a blend of Art Deco and Rajasthani styles. Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment or take a dip in the palace’s indoor swimming pool. In addition to its luxurious accommodations, the Umaid Bhawan Palace offers a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. Your father can enjoy a sumptuous meal at Risala, the palace’s signature restaurant, which serves authentic Rajasthani cuisine as well as international dishes. Treat your father to an unforgettable experience by witnessing the grandeur of Umaid Bhawan, and you’ll create cherished memories together.
Noormahal Palace, Karnal
An iconic Heritage Landmark with an untold story of a family legacy, The Noormahal Palace has stepped gracefully through many regal transitions. The owners are from the Sikh misl (Clan) of Sukerchakia’s royal family lineage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji, the great warrior and Maharaja of Great Punjab who ruled from 1780-1839. Restoring the royal heritage grandeur and recreating the majestic past of the legendary Maharaja, this jewel in the crown of Delhi NCR offers 125 stunningly luxurious rooms and royal suites. Legendary for its striking architecture, iconic location, and vibrant past, Noormahal Palace Hotel in Karnal-The Land of Raja Karna, a character of the epic Mahabharata has its own extraordinary stories to tell.’
With a history spanning over 500 years, this enchanting destination offers a perfect blend of captivating beauty and rich heritage. Nestled in the picturesque Aravali hills of Rajasthan, Neemrana Fort beckons you for a peaceful holiday getaway, just a stone’s throw away from the bustling capital city. As you traverse the Delhi-Jaipur expressway, you can even make a quick visit to the pink city, adding a touch of adventure to your retreat. While you’ll be staying in a luxurious hotel, the fort ensures that you still get a taste of the royal lifestyle that once thrived within its walls. The fort’s restoration has preserved its essence, creating an atmosphere that transports you back to medieval times. As you explore the fort, you’ll be captivated by the magnificent view of a Baori, a traditional stepwell that stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of the past.
Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan
Six Senses Fort Barwara, located about two and a half hours’ drive from Jaipur and just 30 minutes by car from Ranthambore National Park, is a remarkable fort-hotel constructed in the 14th century by the Chauhans. The extensive restoration process of this 700-year-old fort took over a decade, resulting in the creation of two palaces and multiple temples within its premises. With a collection of 48 suites, this hotel offers an exquisite and historically immersive experience for those seeking luxury. In addition to enjoying thrilling jungle safaris, guests can indulge in relaxation at the expansive 30,000 sq ft spa and fitness centre at Fort Barwara or partake in a guided village tour.
Ram Bagh Palace, Jaipur
The historic Rambagh Palace, is a magnificent property dating back to 1835. Situated in the captivating city of Jaipur, known for its royal heritage and stunning forts, this palace offers a truly extraordinary experience. Acquired by the prestigious Taj hotel group, Rambagh Palace was once the residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, adding an extra layer of authenticity and charm to your stay. As you wander through the property, you’ll be captivated by the sprawling Mughal gardens, extravagant chambers, and spellbinding decor that evoke the glorious times of Rajasthan’s royal past.
This Father’s Day, go above and beyond the ordinary by gifting your father an experience that combines luxury, history, and grandeur. These royal palaces not only serve as reminders of the grandeur and legacy of the past but also offer an opportunity for introspection, gratitude, and the celebration of family bonds. These palaces are not mere structures; they are repositories of culture, art, and stories that have shaped the world we inhabit today. Father’s Day is a time to honour the men who have guided us, nurtured us, and shaped our lives. By embarking on this extraordinary journey, you not only offer your father a gift beyond material possessions but also create an opportunity to deepen your bond, share incredible experiences, and create cherished memories that will endure for a lifetime.
It’s no secret that Taapsee Pannu, the powerhouse of talent, likes to relax guilt-free in her spare time even as she continues to enthral fans with her outstanding performances on the big screen and on OTT. Taapsee adores to travel and explore new things to make unforgettable memories.
The actor lauded for her breakthrough performance in Pink, the highly appreciated Thappad and Haseen Dillruba, recently travelled to California and chose to stay at some stunning Airbnb homes in San Francisco and San Diego.
Sharing what she loved about these vibrant Californian hotspots,Taapsee said, “My trip has been an absolute delight, a tapestry of unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From the mesmerizing vistas of San Francisco’s iconic coastline to immersing myself in the city’s rich tapestry of art, food, culture, and history, every moment has been worth the journey. The allure of San Diego’s sun-kissed parks and picturesque harbors, accompanied by the blissful weather, created the perfect setting for indulgence—something I don’t get to do very often in Mumbai. When I travel, I look forward to exploring the destination like a local. Meeting new people, venturing off the beaten path, and discovering hidden gems are the hallmarks of an authentic travel experience. Staying at an Airbnb exemplifies the best of both worlds, offering me a cozy sanctuary that feels like my own home in a foreign land.”
Luxurious, Modern, Views, Nob Hill, San Francisco
Her San Francisco Airbnb is a stunning 3-bedroom flat nestled in the heart of the prestigious Nob Hill neighborhood. With Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, and North Beach just a leisurely stroll away, it is one of the most ideal homes to stay at in the city. From the convenience of this prime location to the meticulously curated interiors, it offers a luxurious lifestyle tailored to meet every travellers’ desire. Its wrap-around floor to ceiling windows provide panoramic views of the city coastline and its classic interiors dominated by softer hues provide that homely feel one turns to Airbnb for.
The California – Dreamy San Diego Oasis w/ Hot Tub, San Diego
Canada invites 4800 candidates for its June 2023 Express Entry draw
Candidates who have the highest CRS score are the most likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence….reports Asian Lite News
Canada has issued invitations to 4,800 candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 486 in its latest Express Entry draw for June 2023.
The 14th draw of the country’s flagship economic immigration management system on Thursday follows the most recent draw on May 24 in which 4,800 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 488 were invited.
This comes days after the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced its first-ever launch of category-based selection for Express Entry candidates.
These category-based selection invitations will focus on candidates who have a strong French language proficiency, or work experience in fields like healthcare, agriculture and agri-food, STEM professions and trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors transport.
The IRCC expects to hold category-based draws this summer but is yet to provide an exact date.
So far 49,948 candidates have been invited over 13 draws in 2023.
The department did not hold any all-program draws until July 2022 following a pause related to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Express Entry is Canada’s flagship application management system for those seeking to immigrate permanently through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program.
The system considers a candidate’s work experience, occupation, language ability, education, age and other transferable factors.
Candidates who have the highest CRS score are the most likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
According to CIC News, it is expected that later this year IRCC will begin to move away from placing the most emphasis on a high CRS score.
It will instead begin targeting candidates based on any specific attribute that is deemed to be in demand in Canada’s economy at the time.
Meghalaya, known as the “abode of clouds,” is indeed a senior-friendly destination that offers a unique experience, with Umngot River being a notable highlight…reports Asian Lite News
Traveling offers seniors the opportunity to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth. By venturing to new destinations and immersing themselves in diverse cultures, seniors can experience a revitalising effect on their mental well-being. Breaking away from their daily routines, they are able to view life from a fresh perspective and open themselves up to endless possibilities. Meaningful travel allows seniors to connect with new individuals, cultivate social involvement, and enrich their lives in remarkable ways, fostering a sense of fulfillment and expanding their horizons. SilverWings Holidays by SeniorWorld shares a list of six travel destinations in India that offer senior-friendly experiences:
Kashmir Kashmir is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, and verdant valleys. With places like Srinagar’s Dal Lake, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Gulmarg to explore, there’s plenty to admire in Kashmir. The region’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. Seniors can also engage in spiritual tourism by visiting temples, shrines, and mosques scattered throughout the region, such as the Shankaracharya temple, Amarnath Cave, and Jama Masjid. Kashmir’s rugged terrain and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for seniors to enjoy adventure activities like trekking, skiing, and rafting. The peaceful atmosphere and hospitable locals make Kashmir an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Meghalaya Meghalaya, known as the “abode of clouds,” is indeed a senior-friendly destination that offers a unique experience, with Umngot River being a notable highlight. This river, flowing near the Indo-Bangladesh border, is a crystal-clear river and one of the cleanest in Asia. It meanders through the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong, also known as God’s own garden. Meghalaya, with its scenic beauty, offers an ideal vacation spot as it combines sightseeing, trekking, adventure, and picturesque views.
Andaman Islands The enchanting Andaman Islands entice travelers with their unmatched natural splendor and tranquil atmosphere. With pristine beaches, untouched waters, lush forests, and a thriving marine ecosystem, it is an idyllic retreat for seniors seeking serenity and rejuvenation. Offering a plethora of revitalizing experiences such as scuba diving, trekking, bird watching, and more, amidst the islands’ breathtaking landscapes, it provides the perfect setting for seniors to unwind and engage in invigorating activities that connect them with the island’s extraordinary beauty.
Kerala Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a captivating destination with Munnar standing out as an enchanting hill station. The region boasts picturesque landscapes, including verdant valleys, virgin forests, rolling hills, meandering streams, and breathtaking waterfalls. Seniors can engage in invigorating activities like trekking through the lush surroundings, embracing the natural wonders while enjoying physical exercise. Camping amidst the serene ambiance offers a chance to reconnect with nature, providing panoramic views and a sense of harmony with the surroundings. Munnar’s charm reaches its peak in August when rainfall enhances its beauty, making it an ideal holiday spot. The cascading waterfalls come alive, the valleys become more vibrant, and the fragrant aroma of tea and spice plantations fills the air. The pleasant weather, combined with the mesmerizing scenery, creates a soothing environment where seniors can unwind, revitalize, and fully immerse themselves in nature’s embrace.
Varanasi – Sarnath Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, offers a mesmerizing experience. Strolling along the ghats, witnessing the sunrise on a boat ride in the Ganges, or observing the rituals on the ghats in this city of lights can be truly enchanting. Sarnath, located just 10 kilometers away from Varanasi, is where Gautam Buddha preached his first sermon. It features archaeological museums, stupas, and monasteries, making it a significant attraction for spiritual exploration. In both these places, seniors find solace and inspiration, as these places offer a sense of serenity, cultural richness, and a connection to ancient traditions. It is a destination that allows them to reflect, contemplate, and find a renewed sense of spirituality, making it a cherished choice among seniors seeking meaningful travel experiences.
Ladakh Ladakh, renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, unhurried lifestyle, and unique experiences, is an excellent destination for seniors, guaranteeing unforgettable memories. The sight of waking up to clear blue skies and being surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains leaves an indelible mark. This tourist haven is blessed with breath-taking natural wonders, including picturesque valleys, charming villages, and pristine lakes, with Pangong Tso Lake being a standout attraction known for its mesmerizing shades of blue. To cater to older travellers, the region has developed senior-friendly facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. One of the greatest appeals of this area is its relatively untouched nature, providing a serene escape from the busyness of urban life, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in tranquillity and rejuvenation.
Located in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is a prominent glamping location where travelers can witness wildlife at its best…reports Asian Lite News
Traveling can be an incredible experience in India, which is rich in remarkable landscapes, whether it’s the national parks, mountains, deserts, or coastal regions. Talking about travel, one of the most popular trends at the moment has been the concept of Glamping. Also known as Glamourous Camping, Glamping is for people looking for outdoor adventures. It is a form of camping that includes accommodations and facilities that are relatively more luxurious than traditional camping. With India, boasting the fifth largest rail network in the world, a lot of the popular glamping locations are indeed accessible by train. Dinesh Kumar Kotha – Co-founder and CEO – ConfirmTkt highlights some of the unexplored ones that you can take a train:
Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)
Desert glamping is one popular travel activity that has been on the rise in recent times, and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is renowned for it. Travelers looking for a luxurious glamping experience should really try out Jaisalmer, which is known for its stunning sand dunes and rich culture. It is home to a wide region of the Thar Desert, and there are many such luxury camps for tourists to stay at. Packed with desert safaris, camel rides, dinner under the stars, and other folk dances and music events, Jaisalmer is truly a remarkable location for glamping. Fortunately, Jaisalmer is very well connected to the rest of India via trains.
Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand)
Located in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is a prominent glamping location where travelers can witness wildlife at its best. The national park offers various glamping experiences packed with luxury and state-of-the-art amenities. There are several luxury resorts located on the banks of the Kosi River, which provide a cool ambience, and lush green lawns. Moreover, glamping in this region provides tourists with opportunities of spotting rare species of animals and birds. The nearest railway station to Jim Corbett is Ramnagar, which is wonderfully connected with the rest of India.
Sujan Jawai Leopard Camp, Pali (Rajasthan)
Leopards are fine wildlife creatures that fascinate people across the world. The nocturnal and incredibly athletic animals are known for their climbing capabilities, with tourists traveling to regions across India to catch glimpses of them. Sujan Jawai Leopard Camp is one popular location in Pali, Rajasthan that offers glamping opportunities for leopard spotters. It is reported the region promises a peaceful co-existence of locals and the leopards, making it a big cat hotspot. The glamping location provides tents, spas, and wellness programs apart from food being served around bonfires. Importantly, the camp in Pali is easily accessible when traveling by train, making it a very popular travel destination for the future.
Kanatal (Uttarakhand)
Kanatal is one of the serene and offbeat hill stations situated near Mussoorie and Dehradun. The beautiful valleys of the region in Uttarakhand hold a lot of promise for travelers and is also a very ideal glamping location. It is only a 5-hour drive from New Delhi and is very easily accessible by train. One of the prominent glamping facilities is provided by Organic Hideaways, which opened up Eco Glamp in the region. It is the country’s largest Glamping retreat and offers outdoor living through Geodesic Domes that provide comfort, safety, and luxury. Moreover, Eco Glamp has been successful in maintaining the ecological balance of the region, something that is beneficial for both travelers and residents.
Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Kanha National Park is one place that everyone across India has heard of. The spectacular tourist hotspot is the ideal destination for tiger spotting and wildlife adventure. Most notably, Kanha is now a very popular destination for glamping with their being multiple options equipped with luxury tents. Not just that, travelers can experience spectacular outdoor sitting arrangements, swimming pools, spas, restaurants, and tours for wildlife spotting. While there is no direct train to Kanha National Park, interested travelers can board and reach the region via trains to Jabalpur, Gondia, and Nagpur.
The move will allow Canada to issue invitations to apply to prospective permanent residents with specific skills, training or language ability…reports Asian Lite News
Canada has launched a new process to welcome skilled newcomers with work experience in priority jobs as permanent residents in an attempt to meet its labour needs and strengthen its economy.
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Sean Fraser, announced on Wednesday the first-ever launch of category-based selection for Canada’s flagship economic immigration management system, Express Entry.
This year, category-based selection invitations will focus on candidates who have a strong French language proficiency, or work experience in fields like healthcare, agriculture and agri-food, STEM professions and trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors transport.
The move will allow Canada to issue invitations to apply to prospective permanent residents with specific skills, training or language ability.
According to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), this approach to the Express Entry system will address labour needs and strengthen French communities across the country.
“These changes to the Express Entry system will ensure that they (Canadian employers) have the skilled workers they need to grow and succeed. We can also grow our economy and help businesses with labour shortages while also increasing the number of French-proficient candidates to help ensure the vitality of French-speaking communities,” Fraser said.
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship application management system for those seeking to immigrate permanently through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program.
In the 13th Express Entry draw of 2023, IRCC invited 4,800 candidates, according to CIC News.
In June 2022, the Canadian government made changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to allow for the selection of immigrants based on key attributes that support economic priorities such as specific work experience or knowledge of French.
The first category-based invitations to apply are expected to be sent this summer. Immigration accounts for nearly 100 per cent of Canada’s labour force growth, helping to address labour shortages in key sectors.
According to Employment and Social Development Canada, the number of occupations facing shortages doubled between 2019 and 2021.
Under the Canada-Quebec Accord, Quebec establishes its own immigration levels.
From 2018 to 2022, admissions under the Federal High-Skilled program accounted for between 34 and 40 per cent of overall French-speaking admissions outside Quebec.
The awards recognised Etihad’s commitment to sustainable aviation through innovation and collaboration…reports Asian Lite News
Etihad Airways has been named Environmental Airline of the Year 2023 for the second year running in the Airline Ratings awards.
The Airline Ratings awards acknowledge the best of the aviation industry and rank airlines on their innovation, route networks and safety score against strict assessment criteria.
The awards recognised Etihad’s commitment to sustainable aviation through innovation and collaboration and its dedication to driving change and results from Abu Dhabi to the world.
As well as being crowned Environmental Airline of the Year, Etihad took third in Airline Ratings’ “Top 10 Airlines” award, which critiques airlines on comfort, innovation, value and safety across Economy, Business and First Class.
Etihad’s sustainability strategy is focused on achieving emissions reductions through in-sector measures, aligning with industry roadmaps and frameworks, collaborating with UAE industrial ecosystems, and remaining transparent and proactive regarding sustainability issues within the aviation industry.
Etihad Cargo expands pharma sector to Africa
In its most recent sustainability report released in May 2023, Etihad announced it had achieved a 26% reduction in CO2 emissions per Revenue Tonne Kilometre (RTK). This achievement is underpinned by Etihad’s flagship sustainability initiatives, including the Greenliner programme, which uses the airline’s fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners as flying test-beds and the Sustainable50 A350-1000.
Antonoaldo Neves, Group Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Aviation Group, said, “We take great pride in reducing our CO2 RTK by 26 percent. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and efforts of our team to drive our sustainability agenda and we thank them for their contributions.
I am also very proud of our overall achievements, which go beyond delivering direct Co2 reductions but explore innovative solutions to the broader challenges facing aviation sustainability, as you can see in our annual report.”
Airlineratings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas, said, “Etihad Airways has demonstrated its leadership in the push for sustainable flight with its Greenliner Boeing 787 program and last year with its Sustainability50, A350 aircraft.
In every aspect, Etihad Airways staff and management are committed to reducing the airline’s CO2 footprint, and it shows. The rallying phrase is a million things count in reducing emissions and thus the focus is all-consuming. The airline’s Sustainability Report 2021-2022 demonstrates the potential advancements to be made in sustainable aviation by a wide range of initiatives.”
People wait to cross into Egypt through the Argeen land port with Sudan on April 27, 2023. Egypt has received more than 16,000 foreigners fleeing the deadly conflict in neighboring Sudan, including more than 14,000 Sudanese, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday. (Photo by Radwan Abu Elmagd/Xinhua)
The authority said that the closure could be extended again in the future…reports Asian Lite News
Khartoum, June 1 (IANS) Sudan’s Civil Aviation Authority has extended the closure of the country’s airspace to June 15 amid continued armed conflict between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.
In a notice to airmen, or NOTAM, on Wednesday, the authority decided to extend the closure of airspace for all civil flights, with the exception of those carrying humanitarian aid.
The authority said that the closure could be extended again in the future, Xinhua news agency reported.
Since the outbreak of the deadly armed clashes in the Sudanese capital Khartoum and other areas on April 15, the country’s airspace has been closed as air navigation systems at Khartoum International Airport have been affected.
More than 800 people have been killed, and nearly 1.4 million people have been forced to leave their homes since the conflict began, with more than one million people internally displaced and about 3,45,000 people crossing into neighbouring countries for safety, said the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in its latest report on Sunday.
Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Maktoum were briefed on the airline’s ambitious future plans by Sir Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline….reports Asian Lite News
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, visited the Emirates Group Headquarters. He was accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance.
The leaders, who were received by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, toured key business areas and facilities at the Emirates Group Headquarters.
Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Maktoum were briefed on the airline’s ambitious future plans by Sir Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline. They were also briefed about Emirates’ investments in developing its brand and products in the coming years, and travel innovations designed to enhance the customer journey.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said. “Right from its inception, Emirates has been a key contributor to achieving the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into one of the world’s leading metropolises. Emirates’ rise as a major global airline under H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s leadership has played an instrumental role in Dubai’s emergence as a prominent international business, investment and tourism destination. As Dubai seeks to consolidate its position as a frontrunner on the global stage in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, Emirates will continue to be a vital catalyst of its economic progress as well as an important player in shaping the future of the world’s aviation and travel industries.”
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed said, “By helping establish Dubai as one of the world’s most connected cities, the airline has enabled the emirate to become a unique bridge between diverse markets and cultures, and a major focal point for enterprise, innovation and talent. Emirates is not only one of the UAE’s biggest global brands but also an outstanding model for excellence in the international aviation industry. Supported by the leadership’s vision and its strategic investments, Emirates continues to make significant contributions to generating new opportunities for Dubai’s growth and evolution and reinforcing its development as a stable and resilient global commercial hub.”
Their Highnesses toured Emirates’ Network Control Centre, the “nerve centre” of the airline’s operations around the world. They were briefed on how the 365/24/7 Network Control Centre ensures all flights arrive and depart on time, without disruption, and how multiple departments across the airline work in unison to keep the operation running seamlessly. The team on duty at the Network Control Centre uses sophisticated systems to keep a close watch on Emirates traffic flows, breaking news, and weather patterns to ensure they are well-equipped to anticipate and respond to operational contingencies and situations.
Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Maktoum also briefly attended the graduation of 120 new Emirates Cabin Crew. Their Highnesses interacted with Emirates’ 3D hologram projection, which the airline will be using for virtual communication with its employees, graduations, ticketing offices, and meetings.
Their Highnesses also witnessed a live demonstration from Sara, the world’s first portable robot check-in system developed by Emirates. As part of the demonstration, a passenger had their face scanned to match their passport for check-in and an e-boarding pass was seamlessly sent to the person’s phone.
Last week, the Emirates Group reported its most profitable year ever, driven by Dubai’s readiness to cater to the strong rebound of international air travel demand. For the financial year ending 31 March 2023, the Emirates Group posted a record profit of AED10.9 billion. The Group’s revenue was AED119.8 billion, an increase of 81 percent over last year’s results. The outstanding results were also in line with Dubai’s 97 percent year-on-year growth in international visitors, which is on track again to increase in 2023.
The Emirates Group is the biggest player in the UAE’s aviation sector, supporting over 770,000 jobs and contributing over AED172.5 billion to the nation’s GDP. Its growth plans are in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033 and consolidate its status as one of the world’s top three destinations for business and tourism. Emirates will play a crucial role in achieving D33 goals by expanding its global network, providing greater access to foreign markets, encouraging exports, and supporting the government’s vision of making the emirate a global investment hub.
The aviation industry’s contribution to the UAE economy is set to significantly increase over the next decade through direct and indirect employment, infrastructure investment, supply chain spending, tourism spend, and trade and commerce benefits from the significant movement of cargo across new vertical industries. Strategic investments are now being channelled in the aviation sector to grow Dubai’s position as one of the world’s biggest aviation hubs.
