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British Airways Introduces Avios Only Flights To Cape Town: Here’s What You Need To Know

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Friday, August 1, 2025

In a significant development for frequent flyers and Avios members, British Airways has introduced Avios-only flights to Cape Town for the 2025 festive season. This move marks an important milestone for the airline and offers loyal members the chance to book flights using Avios, the airline’s frequent flyer currency. With the Christmas period fast approaching, the announcement of these Avios-only flights is expected to drive interest from both business and leisure travelers looking to visit South Africa’s popular holiday destination.

The Rise of Avios-Only Flights

The introduction of Avios-only flights is part of British Airways’ ongoing effort to provide loyal customers with greater flexibility and options for redeeming their Avios points. Since the launch in 2023, British Airways has rolled out Avios-only flights to 15 destinations across multiple regions, including Europe, Africa, the Middle East, North America, and the Caribbean. These flights are especially appealing to travelers who have accumulated significant Avios points through previous flights, purchases, or partnership programs.

The launch of Avios-only flights to Cape Town for the 2025 festive period is particularly significant, as it gives travelers the opportunity to visit this iconic destination during one of the peak travel times of the year. With more than 500 seats available for Avios redemption, British Airways is providing an exciting opportunity for those looking to book travel to Cape Town without the need for traditional cash payments.

How Do Avios-Only Flights Work?

The Avios-only flights function similarly to reward seats, which are available to passengers using their Avios points. The key difference is that, for Avios-only flights, every seat on the plane is available for Avios redemption, allowing members to book their seats without needing to pay any additional cash. In the case of flights to Cape Town, travelers can book seats for as little as 70,000 Avios and £150 in taxes and fees.

These flights are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with availability depending on the number of seats still open for Avios redemption. British Airways guarantees a minimum of 12 Reward Seats on short-haul flights and 14 on long-haul flights, meaning there will always be a certain number of seats set aside for Avios redemption. However, Avios-only flights offer a more exclusive opportunity, allowing passengers to book all available seats using their points.

Increased Popularity Among Families and Frequent Flyers

British Airways has noticed a growing trend among families with children who are taking advantage of Avios-only flights. In previous months, flights to destinations like Málaga and Marrakech saw a significant increase in family bookings, with demand more than four times higher than for other types of reward flights. This suggests that Avios-only flights are an attractive option for families seeking affordable travel options during peak holiday periods.

Given the opportunity to redeem points for family vacations, travelers can enjoy the benefits of loyalty programs without needing to worry about high ticket prices. This trend may continue to grow as British Airways expands its Avios-only flight offerings to more global destinations.

The Role of British Airways’ Partner Programs

British Airways is part of the International Airlines Group (IAG) and works closely with various partners to offer multiple ways to accumulate Avios points. Travelers can earn points not only through flying with British Airways but also through its partnerships with retailers, hotels, and car rental companies. Notably, British Airways American Express Credit Cards allow cardholders to collect Avios points on everyday purchases.

The ability to earn Avios points through collaborative partnerships makes it easier for travelers to accumulate the points needed for reward seats or Avios-only flights to desirable destinations like Cape Town. Additionally, Companion Vouchers earned through these cards allow members to bring a second passenger on Avios-only flights for only the taxes and charges or half the amount of Avios.

How This Will Impact Tourism to Cape Town

The introduction of Avios-only flights to Cape Town has significant implications for tourism in South Africa. Cape Town is already a popular destination for UK tourists, with its combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and thriving food scene. The availability of Avios-only flights will make it even more accessible to those who may have previously been deterred by high ticket prices.

With 500 seats available for Avios redemption, British Airways is facilitating affordable travel to this desirable location, helping to support the tourism economy in Cape Town. The added convenience of booking flights using frequent flyer points will likely attract more visitors during the busy Christmas and New Year period, providing a boost to local businesses in the city.

A Competitive Edge for British Airways

The move to offer Avios-only flights to Cape Town also strengthens British Airways’ position in the competitive air travel market. By offering more flexible options for Avios redemption, the airline is attracting loyal customers who value affordable, hassle-free travel. This strategy allows British Airways to differentiate itself from other carriers and create greater loyalty among its customer base.

In addition to Cape Town, British Airways has also announced new Avios-only flights to other destinations, which could lead to further growth in the airline’s loyalty program. The increased demand for Avios flights shows that travelers are eager to use their points to access premium destinations at affordable rates.

Conclusion: Maximizing Avios for Global Travel

British Airways’ introduction of Avios-only flights to Cape Town is a game changer for travelers who wish to experience one of the world’s most beautiful destinations without spending a fortune on airfares. By providing greater flexibility for loyalty members and offering affordable travel options, British Airways continues to enhance the travel experience for frequent flyers. As tourism to Cape Town grows, this initiative will not only benefit the airline but also contribute to the broader tourism economy in South Africa. With more Avios-only flights planned for the future, travelers can expect even more exciting destinations to become accessible through British Airways’ generous loyalty program.



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Air France, British, Austrian, KLM, ITA, Lufthansa, and other Airlines Experience Major Travel Disruptions as Over 60 Flights Are Grounded Across Airports in Russia, UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, and More

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Saturday, August 2, 2025

Air travel in Europe has been severely disrupted due to adverse weather conditions, impacting Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, Lufthansa and many others. Over 60 flights have been canceled and dozens of other flights have been delayed. Russian, British, Portuguese, Spanish and Italian airports, and many more, have been impacted by storms, heavy rainfall, and low visibility. These conditions have resulted in many people being stuck for long periods of time. These airlines continue to operate in Europe and the constant flow of aircraft is hampered by the current weather issues.

Bad weather continues to wreak havoc on air travel in Europe, with numerous airlines experiencing major flight disruptions. Over 60 flights have been grounded today at various airports across Russia, the UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, and Italy. These cancellations and delays have affected several major airlines, including Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, Lufthansa, and many others. Passengers are facing significant disruptions as they navigate through storms and adverse weather conditions.

Today, over 60 flights were grounded across major European airports, with disruptions affecting airlines such as Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, and Lufthansa. At Pulkovo, 18 cancellations (8%) and 2 delays (0%) impacted Rossiya Airlines, while Sheremetyevo saw 14 cancellations (6%) and 76 delays (11%), mostly affecting Aeroflot. Vnukovo reported 10 cancellations (23%) and 13 delays (0%), with Rossiya Airlines and UTair most impacted. Heathrow had 5 cancellations (0%) and 59 delays (5%), while Schiphol experienced 6 cancellations (0%) and 183 delays (15%), with KLM and easyJet hit hardest. Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado had 2 cancellations (33%) and 49 delays (10%), primarily affecting TAP Air Portugal. Other airports, including Barcelona, Nice, Dublin, Brussels, and Venice, also reported significant delays and cancellations due to severe weather across Russia, the UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, Belgium, and Italy. The disruptions highlight the ongoing challenges of weather-related flight operations in Europe.

Major Airlines Affected by Weather Chaos

Among the airlines impacted by today’s disruptions, Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, and Lufthansa are some of the most notable names. These carriers are among the largest in Europe and operate numerous international routes. However, severe weather has forced them to ground flights, delay departures, and cause significant inconvenience for travelers.

The total number of grounded flights has been substantial, with airports such as Pulkovo, Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol, and others reporting major cancellations. In fact, as of today, more than 60 flights have been affected across various European airports. While the primary reason for these disruptions has been bad weather, the severity of the situation has made it clear how vulnerable the aviation industry is to such conditions.

Affected Airports

Pulkovo Airport (Russia)

At Pulkovo, 18 flights were canceled, and two additional flights were delayed. Among the most impacted carriers were Rossiya Airlines, which saw a significant percentage of its flights grounded (18 cancellations), and Aeroflot, which also faced disruptions. Other airlines such as Pegas Fly, Yamal Airlines, and My Freighter were also affected, although their cancellations and delays were lower in number.

Sheremetyevo International Airport (Russia)

Sheremetyevo, one of the busiest airports in Russia, reported 14 cancellations and 76 delays today. Aeroflot, the national carrier, was among the hardest hit, with 58 delayed flights. Other airlines such as Rossiya Airlines and Yamal Airlines also experienced delays, with several international carriers, including Beijing Capital Airlines, Air China, and China Southern Airlines, suffering cancellations and delays due to bad weather conditions.

Vnukovo Airport (Russia)

Vnukovo airport saw a relatively smaller impact with 10 cancellations and 13 delays. Rossiya Airlines again topped the list of affected airlines with 10 cancellations, while UTair, Azimuth, and FlyDubai were also impacted. While the disruptions were fewer compared to other airports, passengers traveling through this hub still faced delays and cancellations throughout the day.

London Heathrow Airport (UK)

Heathrow, one of the busiest international airports in the world, reported 59 delays and 5 cancellations. British Airways faced the brunt of these disruptions, with 37 delayed flights. Other airlines, including KLM, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, also reported cancellations and delays. International carriers like Air Baltic, Cathay Pacific, and Kenya Airways were similarly affected. Weather-related disruptions at Heathrow have led to long queues and frustrated passengers, as several flights were either canceled or delayed for several hours.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (Netherlands)

Amsterdam Schiphol, a major European hub, reported 183 delays and 6 cancellations today. KLM, the national carrier of the Netherlands, was the most affected airline, with over 100 delayed flights. Other airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Air France, Lufthansa, and easyJet, saw a significant number of flights delayed or canceled. Passengers at Schiphol faced a chaotic situation with long wait times and delays, as adverse weather conditions caused havoc on the runway schedules.

General Humberto Delgado Airport (Portugal)

Portugal’s busiest airport, General Humberto Delgado in Lisbon, reported 49 delays and 2 cancellations. TAP Air Portugal was the most impacted airline, with several delays across its routes. Other affected airlines included Air Canada, KLM, and Ryanair, as well as several smaller regional carriers. Portugal’s weather situation resulted in disruptions at this hub as well, affecting both domestic and international flights.

Barcelona International Airport (Spain)

In Spain, Barcelona International saw 83 delays and just 1 cancellation. EasyJet was the worst-hit airline, with several flights delayed. KLM, Ryanair, and Lufthansa also saw disruptions to their schedules. The flight cancellations were minimal, but delays were widespread, affecting travelers looking to make their way to and from Spain’s most popular airport.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (France)

Nice Côte d’Azur, located in the south of France, reported 62 delays and 1 cancellation. The weather in the region caused major delays, particularly with airlines like easyJet and Air France. Other affected airlines included KLM, British Airways, and Lufthansa. While the number of cancellations was low, the airport saw numerous delayed flights, leading to crowded terminals and frustrated travelers.

Dublin International Airport (Ireland)

Dublin International reported 33 delays and 1 cancellation today. Ryanair, a low-cost carrier, was the most impacted, with 10 delays. Other airlines such as Aer Lingus, United, and Eurowings faced some disruptions as well, with a few flights either delayed or canceled due to the inclement weather.

Brussels Airport (Belgium)

Brussels saw 40 delays and 2 cancellations, with Brussels Airlines being the most affected carrier. Other airlines such as Air Canada, Aegean Airlines, and Vueling also experienced disruptions. Though the number of cancellations was low, delays were widespread across various international and regional flights.

Marco Polo International Airport (Italy)

At Marco Polo International in Venice, 26 delays and 1 cancellation were reported. EasyJet and KLM were among the airlines facing significant delays. Other airlines such as Ryanair and Lufthansa also had flights affected. The adverse weather in the region forced several flights to be delayed or canceled, leaving passengers stranded or unable to meet their schedules.

Bad Weather Continues to Disrupt Air Travel

The primary reason for these widespread cancellations and delays is the ongoing adverse weather conditions across Europe. Severe storms, heavy rainfall, and low visibility have made it impossible for several airlines to operate their flights on time. The storms have not only affected airports in major cities but also smaller regional hubs, making it a continent-wide issue.

Airlines are struggling to accommodate affected passengers, as delays and cancellations continue to stack up. While some airlines have been able to rebook passengers on later flights, others are unable to offer alternative solutions due to the scale of the disruptions. With bad weather expected to persist for the next few days, the situation could worsen before it improves.

Passenger Impact and Airport Response

Passengers at affected airports have reported long wait times, crowded terminals, and frustration as they attempt to rebook flights or find alternative transportation options. Airlines are offering compensation, including meal vouchers and hotel accommodations, for passengers stranded overnight. However, many travelers are still left scrambling for answers as the bad weather continues to wreak havoc.

Airport authorities across Europe have been working tirelessly to manage the situation, but the scale of the disruptions has proven difficult to handle. While efforts are being made to clear backlogs, it is clear that the ripple effect of these cancellations will continue for days to come. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on their flights and to expect further delays.

The Way Forward

As the weather conditions improve, it is hoped that airlines and airports will be able to return to normal operations. However, it will take time to clear the backlog of delayed and canceled flights. Airlines are working hard to get their schedules back on track, but passengers should expect ongoing disruptions until the storm passes.

In the meantime, travelers are encouraged to remain patient and stay informed about their flight status. While airlines and airports continue to battle adverse weather, it is essential to keep communication open and be prepared for potential changes in travel plans.

The severe weather situations in Europe have prompted more than 60 flight cancellations from major carriers like Air France, British, KLM and even Lufthansa. Airports in Russia, UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland and Italy are still recovering from storms, excessive rain, and low visibility which has made air travel quite difficult.

The unexpected weather changes even today have shown how fragile the aviation industry is and how quickly they can be impacted due to unforeseen weather changes. Air France, British, Austrian, KLM, ITA, and even Lufthansa to name a few airlines are gravely impacted, with more than 60 flights being canceled from major air travel hubs in Russia, UK, Spain, France, and Italy. Weather disruptions like this remind us how important weather predictions are, as they allow airlines and airports to manage operations more smoothly, utilizing proper adaptability.



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The ‘No. 1 reason’ to buy the early boarding upgrade: travel expert

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A record number of passengers flew in 2024.

Izusek | E+ | Getty Images

Southwest Airlines, once known for its first-come, first-served approach to boarding and seating, on Tuesday began selling its first tickets with assigned seats. That change — and with it, new boarding groups — goes into effect for flights in late January.

The move brings Southwest more in line with other major carriers, where travelers need to weigh the value of paying for an early-boarding upgrade.

“The number one reason to buy the early boarding upgrade is if you have a carry-on for the overhead bin,” said Sara Wilcox, an advisor at Fora Travel, a travel agency in New York City. 

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Priority boarding is “basically the race to get our carry-on suitcases in the overhead bins,” said Henry Harteveldt, founder of Atmosphere Research Group, a travel industry market research and advisory firm.

Understanding the boarding process

By law, individuals with disabilities who require special assistance must have the opportunity to board a flight first. Depending on an airline’s policy, other groups like active military members and families with young children may also be offered early boarding.

Beyond that, while the boarding process varies by airline, your spot among boarding groups will generally depend on your status with the airline and the kind of airfare you booked, experts say.

Individuals with elite airline status are typically among the first boarding groups, Harteveldt said. If you don’t have status and you bought a discounted or restricted coach fare, expect to be among the last to board. 

If you fit an airline’s early boarding criteria, you might not need to pay for the perk.

Look for early-boarding add-on options

How co-branded travel credit cards can help

There are different ways to move up the boarding group ladder. Applying for and using an airline’s travel credit card can help you move closer to elite status, Harteveldt said. 

Such cards typically include other perks like free or heavily discounted checked baggage fees. Before you apply, make sure to read and understand the card’s terms and conditions, as some charge high annual fees.

Remember that simply having the card is generally not enough to get the early-boarding benefits. You get the perk when you use the card to book that ticket.

‘You’re also bumped up’ through a premium airfare

Another way to board earlier is by booking a premium economy or main economy airfare, said French. 

Doing so typically allows you to book a specific seat, and “you’re also bumped up in an early boarding position,” she said.

Premium economy “is a step up from economy,” but is not as costly as first or business class, according to Skyscanner, a travel site. In addition to more legroom, wider seats and more recline, these seats offer priority services for check-in and boarding.

But this is an expensive way to get on the plane sooner. Price-wise, a premium economy fare will likely be over 50% less expensive than a business class fare, but is at least 30% more expensive than standard economy, per Skyscanner.

If you have enough points or miles with an airline, you might be able to upgrade from economy to premium economy, per Skyscanner.

While “its not the worst use ever,” remember that you might not get more than one cent per mile, said Stella Shon, a senior features editor at UpgradedPoints, a travel site.

“Cash upgrades are where you get the most value,” she said. If not, assess where your points and miles will be the most valuable to you.

While paying to pick a seat can help you get a better boarding group, especially if you’re willing to pay for an extra legroom seat, you can forgo it. NerdWallet’s French said that passengers should not feel obligated to pay the added cost for early boarding.

If you simply paid for a flight — with or without seat reservations — the airline will assign a seat for you.

You’re just more likely to be placed in a middle seat towards the back of the plane, as well as being among the last passengers to board, she said. 

“Just hope by the time you board there’s space in the overhead bin,” said Harteveldt.



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Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, AirAsia X Opens a New Chapter in Connectivity with Direct Flights Starting in October

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Saturday, August 2, 2025

AirAsia X is expanding its global network by launching direct flights between Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, starting in October. This move marks a significant milestone in improving connectivity between Central Asia and Southeast Asia, offering travelers a more convenient and efficient way to explore both regions. The new route is set to boost tourism and trade, providing greater accessibility for both leisure and business travelers.

AirAsia X Expands with New Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur Route: A Gateway for Central Asia and Southeast Asia Travelers

AirAsia X (D7), the world’s renowned low-cost airline, has announced an exciting new addition to its network: direct flights between Tashkent (TAS), Uzbekistan, and Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Malaysia, starting from 15 October 2025. This new route is a game-changer for travelers in Central Asia, providing a seamless connection between the capital of Uzbekistan and one of Southeast Asia’s busiest international hubs. The direct flights, operating three times a week, are set to cater to the rising demand for travel between the two regions, offering both tourists and business travelers new opportunities to explore, connect, and experience different cultures.

Strategic Significance of the New Route

The launch of the Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur route is a key milestone in AirAsia X’s expansion strategy. The flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with flight D7123 departing Tashkent at 19:30 and arriving in Kuala Lumpur at 06:10 the next day. The return leg, flight D7122, will leave Kuala Lumpur at 13:25, landing in Tashkent at 18:15. This schedule provides travelers with convenient and flexible travel options, further strengthening AirAsia X’s presence in the region.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), AirAsia X’s main hub, will offer Tashkent passengers easy access to a vast network of more than 130 global destinations via the airline’s Fly-Thru service. This unique connectivity enhances the attractiveness of Kuala Lumpur as a transit point for travelers heading to Southeast Asia, Australia, East Asia, and beyond. With the addition of Tashkent to its route map, AirAsia X is reinforcing its position as a leading low-cost carrier for medium-haul flights between Asia and Central Asia.

For Uzbek travelers, this new route opens up exciting opportunities to explore Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and other far-reaching destinations in the Asia-Pacific region. The central location of Kuala Lumpur makes it an ideal hub for seamless connectivity, helping boost the tourism and business ties between Uzbekistan and the Southeast Asia region. Furthermore, Malaysians and other regional travelers now have direct access to Uzbekistan’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty, encouraging greater tourism and cross-cultural exchange.

Catering to Central Asia’s Growing Travel Market

The Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur route marks a strategic move by AirAsia X to tap into the growing demand for international travel in Central Asia. Uzbekistan, with its rapidly developing economy and expanding middle class, is becoming an increasingly important market for the aviation industry. AirAsia X’s decision to launch this new route is in response to rising travel demand, as both leisure and business travelers seek convenient, affordable flight options.

Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X, expressed his excitement about the new route, highlighting the strong early bookings and the airline’s confidence in Central Asia’s potential. He also pointed out that the route is part of AirAsia X’s broader strategy to promote affordable medium-haul travel while enhancing its global network. The launch of this service is in line with Malaysia’s “Visit Malaysia Year 2026” campaign, which aims to attract more international tourists, including those from Uzbekistan.

Moreover, Uzbekistan is working towards its ambitious goal of welcoming 15.8 million international visitors by 2025, a target that is supported by the opening of new routes like this one. AirAsia X’s direct connection between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur will provide a significant boost to tourism in Uzbekistan, helping to showcase the country’s unique cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural landscapes.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties Between Uzbekistan and Malaysia

This new flight route is more than just a business decision for AirAsia X; it also reflects the growing partnership between Uzbekistan and Malaysia, especially in trade, education, and tourism. The two nations have been working to deepen their bilateral ties, and this new service will provide enhanced opportunities for cooperation in various sectors. The ease of travel between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur will facilitate increased business interactions, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration.

Uzbekistan’s government has been making significant strides to develop the tourism sector, and this new route will play a vital role in achieving those goals. The Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur flights will not only boost inbound tourism to Uzbekistan but also support Malaysia’s tourism industry by attracting more visitors from Central Asia.

Special Launch Offers for Early Bookings

To celebrate the launch of the new route, AirAsia X is offering promotional fares for one-way flights from Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur, starting at UZS 2,719,000 (approximately USD 199), inclusive of all taxes and fees. This special offer is available for booking through the AirAsia MOVE app, airasia.com, or the airline’s official sales agent, AA Aviation Management Group, in Uzbekistan. The promotion is valid for bookings made by 3 August 2025, for travel between 15 October and 15 December 2025.

The fare includes a 7kg cabin baggage allowance and covers fuel surcharges, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. AirAsia X’s commitment to providing affordable and high-quality air travel is evident in this competitive pricing, which will surely appeal to both leisure and business travelers seeking a cost-effective way to connect between Uzbekistan and Malaysia.

AirAsia X is set to enhance regional connectivity with the launch of direct flights between Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, beginning in October. This new route will provide travelers with a seamless travel experience, promoting both tourism and trade between Central Asia and Southeast Asia. The strategic move is expected to foster stronger cultural and economic ties, benefiting both regions.

With the introduction of the Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur direct flights, AirAsia X is poised to significantly enhance travel connectivity between Central Asia and Southeast Asia. This new route not only caters to the growing demand for international travel from Uzbekistan but also strengthens the economic, cultural, and tourism ties between Uzbekistan and Malaysia. The seamless connections via Kuala Lumpur International Airport will provide Uzbek travelers with access to over 130 destinations worldwide, making this new service a valuable addition to AirAsia X’s expanding network. As both nations continue to foster deeper bilateral relations, the launch of this flight service is a positive step towards building stronger global connections.



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