Other Global Airlines June Update
Middle East Networks Continue Rebuilding
Airlines across the Middle East continue restoring and strengthening services throughout the region following recent disruptions.
Qatar Airways has confirmed passenger flights to Baghdad, Basra and Erbil in Iraq have now resumed. The resumptions follow the airline's recently reinstated services to Dubai, Sharjah, Bahrain, Damascus and Kozhikode, further rebuilding connectivity across key Middle East and regional destinations.
Emirates has also introduced additional flexibility measures and transit support as demand for travel through Dubai remains strong. Travellers with extended layovers between six and 26 hours can access the airline's Dubai Connect programme, which includes complimentary hotel accommodation, airport transfers, meals and, where required, UAE entry visas.
The airline has also introduced one complimentary date change on eligible fares booked from the 2nd of April onwards, while Emirates Skywards members can access accelerated tier qualification offers and bonus tier miles on eligible Emirates and flydubai services through to the 31st of August.
Emirates says it has now rebuilt 96% of its global network and continues operating at around 75% of pre-disruption capacity.
Star Alliance Carriers Continue Investing in Long-Haul Connectivity
Singapore Airlines has announced plans to progressively introduce Starlink connectivity across its Airbus A350-900 long-haul, A350-900 ultra-long-range and A380 fleet from the first quarter of 2027.
The enhancement is expected to deliver faster and more reliable onboard connectivity, making it easier for passengers to stay connected throughout long-haul journeys. Singapore Airlines says Suites, First Class, Business Class, PPS Club members and KrisFlyer members travelling in Premium Economy and Economy will continue receiving complimentary unlimited wifi on Starlink-enabled aircraft.
The move reflects a broader trend among premium global carriers investing in onboard technology to improve the traveller experience and support increasingly connected travel expectations.
Airlines Continue Enhancing the Travel Experience
American Airlines has unveiled major improvements to its mobile app, introducing a redesigned trip management hub, simplified navigation and additional self-service features.
Travellers can now more easily manage seat selection, upgrades, baggage, boarding passes and trip changes directly through the app, while connected passengers will also gain access to airport wayfinding maps and enhanced airport technology including touchless ID systems.
These digital enhancements reflect a broader airline focus on simplifying the end-to-end travel experience.
Meanwhile, Fiji Airways is introducing on-board red-light therapy and electromagnetic field protection initiatives aimed at helping long-haul travellers reduce the effects of jet lag.
The move reflects growing interest among airlines in improving comfort and recovery across ultra long-haul travel, particularly as travellers spend more time flying nonstop between major international destinations.
Additional Network and Schedule Updates
Qantas' Project Sunrise programme has experienced another delay, with the first Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft now expected to arrive in early 2027 as airlines continue managing broader global supply chain pressures.
The Qantas Group has also extended schedule adjustments across parts of its domestic and international network between July and September due to ongoing elevated fuel costs and operational challenges.
Jetstar has similarly reminded travellers to monitor bookings following schedule adjustments across domestic and international services between July and October 2026, with affected customers being offered alternative flight options or refunds where applicable.
With airlines continuing to invest in connectivity, operational flexibility and customer experience, travellers can expect further changes across long-haul and regional travel are expected throughout 2026.
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