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New Zealand Struggles with Major Travel Disruption as Air New Zealand Suspends All Flights to Gisborne Following Technical Failures and Unprecedented Delays

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Home » AIRLINE NEWS » New Zealand Struggles with Major Travel Disruption as Air New Zealand Suspends All Flights to Gisborne Following Technical Failures and Unprecedented Delays

Friday, August 1, 2025

New Zealand is currently facing significant travel disruption as Air New Zealand suspends all flights to and from Gisborne, following major technical issues with two of its aircraft. The airline, which is the sole carrier connecting Gisborne to key cities like Auckland and Wellington, was forced to ground its services after engineers identified serious faults in two de Havilland Q300 planes. One aircraft suffered in-flight propeller damage, while the other failed a crucial cockpit control check. These technical failures left both planes stranded at Gisborne Airport, which only has two gates, blocking any other incoming or outgoing flights. As a result, travelers faced the inconvenience of cancellations, delays, and lack of communication, causing widespread frustration, especially for those with connecting international flights or urgent travel needs. The situation highlights the challenges of maintaining reliable air connectivity in isolated regions and the critical need for timely updates and alternative solutions.

Air New Zealand (NZ) halted all flights at Gisborne Airport (GIS) on Thursday, July 31, due to technical difficulties experienced with two of its planes. As the only airline connecting Gisborne to Auckland (AKL) and Wellington (WLG), the suspension of services significantly disrupted local travel. The situation began on Wednesday, July 30, when a single inbound flight was halted due to technical issues, and by Thursday afternoon, all operations were put on hold as engineers began working on the aircraft.

Technical Issues and Flight Cancellations

The suspension was caused by faults found in two de Havilland Q300 aircraft, both of which were grounded. One of the planes had in-flight propeller damage, while the other failed a crucial cockpit control check. Gisborne Airport, with only two gates available, was unable to accommodate any other incoming or outgoing flights due to the grounded aircraft occupying both spaces.

This led to a stressful situation for passengers, who were left waiting at the terminal throughout the day for updates. Many were hoping for an early resolution, especially those with connecting international flights, adding to the growing sense of uncertainty and frustration.

Limited Communication and Passenger Frustration

The situation was further compounded by a lack of timely communication from the airline. Passengers voiced their dissatisfaction with the delayed notifications regarding flight cancellations. One traveller, who had an early 6 AM flight, only received a cancellation notice at 3 PM the day before departure. Rebooking proved challenging, as the passenger was re-scheduled to fly two days later, a time that clashed with their return flight from Auckland. Fortunately, they managed to secure a standby ticket for a later flight on Thursday.

Another passenger, who was on her way to Singapore via Auckland, was only informed about the cancellation after arriving at the airport. She expressed frustration that earlier communication could have allowed her to spend more time with her family before the disrupted trip.

Many passengers also raised concerns about the airline’s consistent delays over the past several months, which had made air travel in and out of Gisborne increasingly unreliable. The lack of viable alternatives in such a remote region only intensified the issue.

Efforts to Restore Services and Alternatives for Passengers

Despite the setback, Air New Zealand quickly took action to restore service. Aircraft parts were transported to Gisborne overnight, and engineers were sent to the airport to begin repairs on the grounded aircraft. The airline aimed to have both Q300 planes back in service by the evening of July 31.

In the interim, Air New Zealand worked to provide alternate travel options for affected passengers, although the limited availability of seats presented challenges. Some passengers opted for road transport to Napier (NPE) in order to continue their journey.

Alex Marren, the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, expressed gratitude for passengers’ patience during the disruption, assuring the public that the airline was working diligently to resolve the situation. In addition, Air New Zealand considered expanding aircraft parking facilities at Gisborne Airport to avoid similar disruptions going forward.

The Impact on Gisborne and Its Connectivity

The disruption highlighted the significant impact of unreliable air services on the local community. Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz emphasized the crucial role of air services as a lifeline for the city, highlighting how disruptions impact both business operations and personal connections, including those involving international travel. The mayor had previously met with Air New Zealand’s incoming CEO, Nikhil Ravishankar, to discuss ways of improving service and communication during disruptions.

While Stoltz acknowledged the airline’s assistance during the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, when it arranged emergency flights between Gisborne and Napier, she emphasized that similar support should be available during regular operations. As Air New Zealand is 51% government-owned, the mayor reminded the public that the airline has a responsibility to reliably serve isolated communities like Gisborne.

New Zealand is facing significant travel disruption as Air New Zealand suspends all flights to Gisborne due to technical failures in two aircraft. The grounding of the planes at the airport has led to widespread cancellations and delays, causing frustration among passengers.

The flight cancellations at Gisborne Airport underscored the ongoing challenges of maintaining reliable air services in remote regions. Despite efforts by Air New Zealand to restore services, the disruption caused significant inconvenience and frustration for passengers. Going forward, it is crucial for the airline to address communication issues, improve flight reliability, and explore options to prevent future groundings due to limited space at the airport. The incident has drawn attention to the importance of air connectivity for isolated communities, with local leaders urging the airline to uphold its duty to provide dependable service.



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Flynas Joins Azerbaijan Airways, Air Arabia and Etihad, Boosts Travel with Its Direct Flights from Riyadh to Moscow: Here’s What You Need To Know

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August 3, 2025

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Home » Latest Travel News of Saudi Arabia » Flynas Joins Azerbaijan Airways, Air Arabia and Etihad, Boosts Travel with Its Direct Flights from Riyadh to Moscow: Here’s What You Need To Know

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Flynas has just launched direct flights from Riyadh to Moscow, and this is big news for tourism in Saudi Arabia. Starting August 1, 2025, these three weekly flights are a game-changer, making Riyadh more accessible to Russian tourists. Not only does this make it easier for travelers to visit the Kingdom, but it also strengthens the city’s status as a tourist destination.

This new service will allow visitors from Russia to experience Riyadh’s rich history, modern attractions, and cultural sites without the hassle of connecting flights. It’s an exciting time for tourism in Riyadh, and this move opens up new doors for travelers.

Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Goals

This isn’t just about a flight route – it’s part of a larger strategy to boost Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. The Kingdom has set an ambitious goal to attract 150 million tourists annually by 2030, and this new route is helping to make that vision a reality. By connecting Riyadh directly with Moscow, Flynas is making it easier for tourists to visit and for Saudi Arabia to meet its tourism targets.

The new flights also fit perfectly into the Kingdom’s National Tourism Strategy, which focuses on enhancing Saudi Arabia’s global connectivity. This makes Riyadh more accessible, inviting, and a major player in the global tourism scene.

Riyadh’s Growing Passport Ranking and Global Appeal

Saudi Arabia’s passport has climbed to 54th place in the global passport rankings for 2025, making it easier for Saudi citizens to travel and positioning the Kingdom as an attractive destination for international tourists. This growth in passport ranking reflects Saudi Arabia’s expanding influence and its efforts to increase global tourism.

The rise in passport strength is a sign that Saudi Arabia is becoming more connected with the world, and the new Riyadh to Moscow flight route is a perfect example of how the country is enhancing its appeal for both leisure and business travel.

Boosting Cultural and Business Tourism

Beyond leisure tourism, the new Riyadh to Moscow flight is expected to boost business tourism as well. Saudi Arabia and Russia share strong business ties, and direct flights make it easier for Russian professionals to visit Riyadh for meetings, conferences, and trade events. This strengthens the bond between the two nations and opens doors for more investment and collaboration.

Culturally, Saudi Arabia has a wealth of experiences to offer. Riyadh is home to stunning historical landmarks like Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and modern attractions that showcase the Kingdom’s growth. Russian tourists, in particular, are keen to explore Saudi Arabia’s rich culture, and now, it’s more convenient for them than ever.

Flynas: Making Riyadh More Accessible

Flynas has been at the forefront of expanding Saudi Arabia’s air connectivity. With a focus on affordable, high-quality travel, Flynas is making it possible for more people to visit Riyadh. The airline’s low-cost model ensures that flights remain affordable, attracting budget-conscious travelers who might not have considered visiting Riyadh otherwise.

Flynas’ new direct route to Moscow is part of its growing network, which connects Riyadh to a variety of international destinations. This helps put Riyadh on the map as a city that’s not just a national capital, but a global tourism hub.

The Future of Tourism in Riyadh

Looking ahead, the future of tourism in Riyadh looks bright. As Saudi Arabia continues to grow as a tourism destination, more international routes and collaborations are expected. The Riyadh to Moscow flight is just the beginning. As the Kingdom invests in infrastructure and promotes tourism, Riyadh will continue to attract more global visitors.

This is a pivotal time for Riyadh. With Vision 2030 guiding the way, the Kingdom is positioning itself to be a top tourist destination. And with airlines like Flynas expanding connectivity, Riyadh’s tourism sector is set to thrive in the years to come.



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Tuticorin Airport’s New Terminal Officially Operational; All IndiGo Flights Now Operate From The Upgraded Facility

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August 3, 2025

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Great news for air travellers in South Tamil Nadu! IndiGo, India’s leading airline, has officially moved all its flight operations in and out of Tuticorin Airport to the brand-new terminal building, starting today. Say goodbye to the old terminal and get ready for a refreshed airport experience the next time you fly!

IndiGo Shifts To New Terminal At Tuticorin Airport

From August 3 onwards, every IndiGo flight, whether you’re arriving in Tuticorin or flying out, will use the new terminal building. The older terminal is no longer in use, so make sure you head to the right location to avoid any last-minute confusion. Tuticorin Airport also shared a warm welcome to passengers on X (formerly Twitter). The new terminal is expected to offer more space, better facilities, and a smoother travel experience. 

IndiGo also took to X and posted a travel advisory, asking passengers to update their contact details in their booking. The travellers are advised to ensure they receive all important updates, including flight delays, gate changes, or boarding announcements, right on their phone or email.

Here’s what the airline said: “Effective August 3, all IndiGo flights to/from Tuticorin (TCR) will operate from the New Terminal Building, offering a refreshed and enhanced airport experience. Please update your contact details and monitor your flight status for a smooth journey.”

Also Read: Nagpur Airport Loses Fourth Route In Months As Star Air Pulls Kolhapur Flight

IndiGo’s Strong Performance Despite Challenges

This upgrade comes at a time when IndiGo is doing quite well financially, even with tough global conditions affecting the airline industry. InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, reported a net profit of ₹2,176 crore for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2025–2026, just one day prior to this terminal shift, according to News18.

Between April and June 2025, IndiGo carried over 3.1 crore passengers, a 12% increase compared to last year. It maintained a strong 84.6% load factor, even with a slight dip, and reported revenues of ₹20,496 crore

If you’re planning to fly from Tuticorin anytime soon, whether it’s a business trip, a holiday, or a visit home, head to the new terminal at the airport. All IndiGo flights are now operating from this new space, designed to make your journey more comfortable and efficient.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Prime Minister’s Office

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First Published: August 03, 2025 1:15 PM





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Emirates Joins Cathay Pacific and Air China Expands its Reach in China with New Daily Flights to Hangzhou: Here’s What You Should Know

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August 3, 2025

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Home » Airlines News of China » Emirates Joins Cathay Pacific and Air China Expands its Reach in China with New Daily Flights to Hangzhou: Here’s What You Should Know

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Emirates is now flying to Hangzhou, making it our fifth entry point in China and expanding even further our East Asian network. This new link to Hangzhou is testament to the strength of Emirates in China and offers further growth opportunities for us in our Far East operations.’ The first flight, EK310 was welcomed by local officials and dignitaries as well children from the Airport at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International on 30th July 2025.

This launch follows a significant expansion for Emirates, as the airline recently began services to Shenzhen, making Hangzhou the second new destination in just one month. Emirates’ commitment to increasing its presence in China underscores the airline’s strong confidence in the growing demand for both leisure and business travel between China and the Middle East.

New Route to Hangzhou Offers Convenient Flight Options

The convenient link up is offered by the new daily Emirates service between Dubai and Hangzhou. EK310 is timed to leave Dubai at 09:40 and land in Hangzhou at 22:00. The return flight, EK311 will depart Hangzhou at 00:10hrs arriving in Dubai at 04:55 hrs. The schedule is designed to meet the needs of passengers and enables seamless travel options for guests, connecting through key destinations in Europe.

The announcement was made during a ceremony held on Monday at the US cities both in presence of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline & Group. Emirates will operate its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft between Dubai and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. The flight will reciprocally showcase regionally inspired menus with the choice of popular Chinese dishes and desserts, adding to its overall appeal.

Connecting Global Passengers to Hangzhou

Emirates’ new flight to Hangzhou opens up a range of travel options for passengers from across the globe. The airline’s extensive network enables seamless connections via Dubai to over 40 destinations in Europe, 21 in Africa, 13 in the Middle East, and beyond. Passengers from key markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Spain, Nigeria, and Brazil will benefit from this enhanced connectivity to Hangzhou, which is quickly becoming an important hub for business and leisure travel in China.

The route will also offer passengers the opportunity to connect with other major cities in the region. Convenient connections to destinations like Istanbul, Barcelona, Cairo, and Johannesburg are available via Dubai, making it easier than ever for travelers to explore various global destinations. Emirates’ network is designed to meet the demands of business and leisure travelers, providing an optimal travel experience for everyone.

Enhanced Passenger Experience in Hangzhou

Emirates is bringing its world-class services to Hangzhou, enhancing the travel experience for all passengers flying to and from this dynamic tech hub. In addition to its high-quality in-flight services, Emirates offers a complimentary chauffeur-drive service for First and Business Class passengers in Hangzhou. This service is available within an 80-kilometer radius of Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, providing a seamless, luxurious journey to and from the airport.

The airline’s commitment to providing exceptional service extends to Hangzhou, with a focus on passenger comfort and convenience. The introduction of this new service further reflects Emirates’ growing commitment to the region and its aim to make travel between the Middle East and China more accessible.

Hangzhou: A Growing Hub for Global Travelers

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and rapidly growing technological and e-commerce sectors. The city’s growing prominence as a global business and tourism hub has made it an attractive destination for travelers worldwide.

The launch of Emirates’ daily flights offers global tourists and business travelers better access to Hangzhou, making it easier for them to explore the city’s attractions, including its iconic West Lake, and to tap into the city’s booming digital economy. Hangzhou is also famous for being home to Alibaba, one of the world’s largest e-commerce companies, which has further cemented the city’s status as a global tech powerhouse.

Strengthening Emirates’ Presence in China

Emirates’ expansion into Hangzhou is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its presence in China. The airline already operates flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, offering passengers a comprehensive network of options for traveling to and from the Chinese mainland. The addition of Hangzhou brings the total number of weekly Emirates flights to China to 49, further expanding the airline’s reach across the region.

The airline’s ability to offer convenient, daily flights to Hangzhou will help meet the rising demand for travel between China and the Middle East. With an ever-increasing number of passengers seeking to explore China’s growing tourism and business sectors, Emirates is positioned to be a key player in this thriving market.

Commitment to Connecting People and Cultures

Emirates remains committed to fostering greater connections between China and the rest of the world. The launch of this new route, along with the addition of Shenzhen, reflects the airline’s strategic focus on building stronger trade and tourism ties between China, the Middle East, and other key regions.

In addition to its aviation services, Emirates is actively promoting cultural exchanges between China and the UAE, further strengthening the relationship between the two nations. Through initiatives like partnerships with cultural organizations, the airline is helping to promote China as a major destination for global travelers.

Bottom Line

Emirates’ new daily service to Hangzhou is a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion in China. By offering enhanced connectivity to one of China’s most important cities, Emirates is opening new doors for travelers to explore this thriving region. The airline’s focus on passenger comfort, convenience, and seamless connectivity ensures that travelers flying to Hangzhou will experience the best of what Emirates has to offer.

As Emirates continues to expand its network across China, passengers can expect even greater access to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and beyond. The new flights to Hangzhou are just the beginning of Emirates’ ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of its global customers.



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