Malaysia Airlines will increase flights on its Kuala Lumpur–Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum) route to meet growing demand, introducing a fifth weekly service from Sept 12, 2025 and moving to daily operations starting Dec 1, 2025. Tickets for the additional flights are now available through the airline’s official channels and appointed travel partners.
The airline said the decision reflects strong load factors and sustained demand since the route’s launch in Nov 2023, which started with two weekly flights before increasing to four in April 2024. With the expansion, Malaysia Airlines will operate 80 weekly flights across ten Indian cities by December, up from the current 77.
“India remains a key focus market for Malaysia Airlines, and this frequency increase reaffirms our dedication to meeting the growing demand for air travel from South India,” said Malaysia Aviation Group Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines Dersenish Aresandiran. He added that daily flights would provide more flexibility for leisure and business travellers while supporting trade and tourism between both countries.
Malaysia Airlines also highlighted its Bonus Side Trip programme, which offers international travellers a domestic flight within Malaysia at zero base fare to encourage exploration of local destinations.
There’s a new tourism trend in town and it flies in the face of recent talk about “slow travel”. On the contrary, “extreme daytripping” entails getting to one’s destination quickly and early in order to cram as much into 24 hours as possible.
The phenomenon is being highlighted by the release of TUI’s 2026 winter schedule, an offering which once again includes the firm’s “Search for Santa” itinerary – a one-day only Lapland experience that can now be accessed from more UK departure points than ever, since the addition of Cardiff Airport, in Wales, alongside Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Gatwick, Glasgow, Manchester, Newcastle, Stansted, and Dublin in the Republic of Ireland.
Costing £750 per person (€865), the Christmassy trip takes travellers to Kittila in Finland, where they land around midday. The excitement includes time in the “Snow Village” where an ice hotel complete with igloo-like rooms and an icebar awaits, as well as sleigh rides with “Rudolph”, husky time, snowmobile adventures and, of course, a chance to meet the Red One himself – Santa.
All that, and still be back home in time to sleep in one’s own bed thanks to plane power? It doesn’t allow much room for acclimatising to ones surroundings and taking things in.
Treating flights like a bus ride or commute is perhaps more commonplace in the United States than in Europe, but “Extreme Day Trips” are increasingly popular, with a Facebook page dedicated to the idea attracting 240,000 members who exchange tips and discuss destinations such as Dubai, New York, and the Pyramids in Egypt. It’s arguably an efficient use of limited vacation allowances and, sometimes, budget – allowing one to discover famous sites without spending a fortune on accommodation.
But many argue that the trips are an environmental hazard. Matt Phillis, travel expert at Polarsteps, speaking to Metro newspapernotes that “A flight generates 100 times more carbon dioxide per hour compared to a train or bus ride,” he said, and worse, “short-haul flights, covering less than 1000 miles, contribute disproportionately more to carbon emissions. This is because take-off and landing are so energy-intensive.”
As a result, Phillis recommends train travel instead, echoing the words of Anna Hughes, director of Flight Free UK, who has told The Independent the trips are a choice that is “very worrying for the climate” and that “taking short journeys such as day trips to far-flung places encourages more frequent travel than if you were staying for a longer holiday. This means many more flights are being taken overall.”
Hughes also described the trips to Lapland as in particularly dubious taste, given that snowy destinations are likely to suffer damage from climate change driven by aviation emissions. But, commenting on the new schedule, Chris Logan, TUI UK’s commercial director said, “we’re making it easier than ever for families across the UK to experience the magic of Lapland.”
Singapore Airlines (SIA) carried a record number of passengers between April and June thanks to “robust demand” for travel.
The Asian carrier, which also owns budget brand Scoot, saw passenger numbers increase by 6.9 per cent to 10.3 million for the first quarter of its financial year, while revenue went up by 1.5 per cent to SG$4.8 billion (€3.2 billion).
Despite this growth in traffic and revenue, SIA’s passenger yields fell by 2.9 per cent year-on-year “amid heightened competition as more airlines continue to add capacity”.
The group added that demand for flights “remains healthy” in the current quarter across most global regions.
“However, the global airline industry continues to face a volatile operating environment, with challenges ranging from geopolitical developments and macroeconomic fluctuations to changing market dynamics and supply chain constraints,” said SIA in its announcement. “The group will be agile and proactive in responding to changes in demand patterns.”
SIA’s proposed commercial joint venture with Malaysia Airlines has just received conditional approval from the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore. The deal will allow the two airlines to collaborate on sales and marketing, as well as expand codeshare flights.
Meanwhile, the group said it would “ramp up” capacity from Singapore to several regional destinations, such as Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand and the Philippines, with the impending closure of budget rival Jetstar Asia on 31 July.
SIA’s operating profit for the quarter fell by 13.8 per cent year-on-year to SG$405 million (€270 million). This was due to higher inflation on non-fuel costs and accounting for losses from its 25.1 per cent stake in Air India Group, which SIA acquired following Air India’s merger with Vistara earlier this year.
American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, and PSA, Cancel Over 190 Flights, Disrupting Travel Across US Routes Including Chicago, Washington, Miami, Tampa, New York, and More
Home»AIRLINE NEWS» American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, and PSA, Cancel Over 190 Flights, Disrupting Travel Across US Routes Including Chicago, Washington, Miami, Tampa, New York, and More
Monday, July 28, 2025
American Airlines, PSA Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier, and JetBlue have collectively canceled over 190 flights, causing widespread travel disruption across the US. Routes including Chicago to Washington, Miami to Newark, Tampa to New York, and several others have been impacted by the cancellations, primarily due to adverse weather conditions. American Airlines accounted for the majority of the cancellations with 96 flights, while PSA Airlines, Delta, Frontier, and JetBlue also experienced significant disruptions. Passengers are urged to check their flight statuses regularly and explore alternative routes as airlines work to accommodate the affected travelers.
American Airlines led the cancellations with 96 flights canceled, accounting for 2% of its total operations. Additionally, 155 flights were delayed, representing 4% of their scheduled flights. Major affected routes included Chicago to Washington, Miami to Newark, and Tampa to New York. PSA Airlines, a regional carrier for American Airlines, canceled 43 flights, making up 5% of its flights, with 24 flights delayed, which is 3% of its scheduled operations. Key disrupted routes included Charlotte to Richmond and Reagan National to Buffalo. Delta Air Lines experienced 25 cancellations, equaling 2% of its total flights, with 15 delays, representing 2% of its operations. Major affected routes included Atlanta to New York, Miami to LaGuardia, and Hartsfield-Jackson to Baltimore. Frontier Airlines had 15 cancellations, making up 0% of its scheduled flights, and 105 delays, which is 2% of its flights. Key routes impacted by Frontier’s cancellations included Washington Dulles to Atlanta and Baltimore to Orlando. Finally, JetBlue Airways reported 14 cancellations, constituting 1% of its total flights, and 67 delays, accounting for 6% of its operations. Major routes disrupted by JetBlue included New York to Tampa, New York to Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale to New York. These disruptions have significantly affected travel across key US routes.
Overview of Cancellations
American Airlines has been hit particularly hard, with 96 flights canceled. Affected routes include popular connections such as Chicago to Washington, Miami to Newark, and Tampa to New York. The airline’s significant number of cancellations has left passengers stranded at airports across the country, particularly on routes serving high-traffic cities. Other disrupted routes include Philadelphia to Dallas and Washington to Miami, further compounding the challenges for travelers.
PSA Airlines, a regional carrier for American Airlines, also faced substantial cancellations, with 43 flights canceled. Key routes impacted by PSA’s cancellations include Charlotte to Richmond, Reagan National to Buffalo, and Reagan National to Cleveland. This has added more stress to an already challenging travel experience, as travelers try to adjust to the changes with limited rebooking options.
Delta Air Lines followed suit with 25 canceled flights, disrupting routes like Atlanta to New York, Miami to LaGuardia, and Hartsfield-Jackson to Baltimore. Other affected routes include Detroit to Seattle and Washington to Atlanta, causing major delays and re-routing headaches for passengers. The airline has expressed its efforts to accommodate those affected, but the extensive cancellations have led to increased frustration for many travelers.
Frontier Airlines, known for its low-cost fares, has canceled 15 flights. These cancellations have affected routes such as Washington Dulles to Atlanta, Baltimore to Orlando, and Miami to Washington Dulles. Frontier’s cancellations are particularly significant for passengers hoping to take advantage of its affordable fares, leaving many seeking alternative travel options at the last minute.
JetBlue Airways also experienced flight cancellations, with 14 flights impacted. Key routes affected include New York to Tampa, New York to Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale to New York. The airline’s cancellation of these routes has caused a ripple effect, creating delays and causing passengers to scramble for rebooking options, especially during peak travel times.
Key Routes Affected
The cancellations have disrupted several major domestic routes across the US. Some of the most affected include:
Chicago to Washington: A critical route for both business and leisure travelers, now facing significant delays and cancellations.
Miami to Newark: Another key route, particularly for commuters, now facing long delays and limited alternative flights.
Tampa to New York: A heavily traveled route now experiencing considerable disruption due to flight cancellations.
Washington to Miami: Frequent disruptions on this route, a key connection for many, are leaving passengers looking for alternative ways to reach their destinations.
Philadelphia to Dallas: This route has also faced cancellations, with a significant number of travelers now affected by delays and limited rebooking options.
Travel Disruption Across the US
With more than 190 flight cancellations across these major US airlines, travelers have been left scrambling to find alternative routes, leading to crowded airports, long delays, and an increase in travel frustration. The cancellations are primarily attributed to inclement weather conditions that have impacted flight operations, making it difficult for airlines to maintain normal schedules.
Travelers are advised to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport, as delays and cancellations may continue for the next few days. Airlines have promised to do their best to accommodate affected passengers, offering rebooking options, though availability remains limited during this period of heightened disruption.
Tips for Affected Travelers
Stay Updated: Always check your airline’s website or app for real-time flight status updates. Most airlines now offer SMS alerts and email notifications about delays and cancellations.
Consider Alternative Routes: If your flight has been canceled, consider alternative airports or routes. For instance, if you were flying into LaGuardia, check for flights to Newark or JFK.
Travel Insurance: For those with flexible travel plans, consider investing in travel insurance, especially when adverse weather conditions are a factor.
Be Prepared for Delays: With significant cancellations, delays are likely to follow. Arriving early and packing essentials like snacks and entertainment can make waiting times more manageable.
American Airlines, PSA Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier, and JetBlue have canceled over 190 flights, disrupting travel across key US routes such as Chicago to Washington and Miami to Newark. The cancellations, primarily caused by adverse weather conditions, have left many passengers stranded and scrambling for alternatives.
The current wave of flight cancellations and delays is a reminder of how unpredictable weather and operational issues can affect air travel. With over 190 flights canceled across major US airlines and routes, travelers are urged to be patient and proactive in seeking updates and rebooking options. As airlines work to clear backlogs and return to normal service, it’s recommended that passengers stay vigilant and remain flexible with their travel plans.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login