Flight Buzz
London, Abu Dhabi, Berlin, Cape Town, Casablanca, Dublin, Frankfurt, and More: Qatar Airways Expands Winter Schedule with More Flights to Popular Global Destinations

Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Qatar Airways has unveiled its enhanced global winter flight schedule, introducing increased services to over 15 destinations worldwide. The new schedule is set to offer greater convenience for travelers, with up to 10 daily flights to London Heathrow, marking the airline’s highest-ever frequency to the UK capital. This increase in capacity reflects the growing demand for Qatar Airways’ services and its commitment to offering better connectivity through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport.
As Qatar Airways continues to set industry standards, its global network will further expand to cater to the needs of both business travelers and tourists. This winter, travelers will benefit from additional services to key destinations such as Cape Town, Dublin, Berlin, and São Paulo, further solidifying the airline’s position as one of the world’s leading carriers.
Expanding Global Reach: Increased Services to Popular Destinations
The Qatar Airways winter schedule includes significant increases in flight frequencies for several major cities. Here are some of the key updates:
- London Heathrow: Up to 10 daily flights (from 8) – the airline’s highest frequency to date.
- Abu Dhabi: Increased from 5 daily flights to 6.
- Berlin: Increased from 18 weekly flights to 21.
- Cape Town: Increased from 10 weekly flights to 12.
- Casablanca: Increased from 4 weekly flights to 5.
- Dublin: Increased from 14 weekly flights to 17.
- Frankfurt: Increased from 18 weekly flights to 21.
- Johannesburg: Increased from 14 weekly flights to 18.
- Maldives: Increased from 3 daily flights to 4.
- Phuket: Increased from 3 daily flights to 4.
- São Paulo: Increased from 14 weekly flights to 18.
- Sharjah: Increased from 3 daily flights to 7.
- Tokyo Narita: Increased from 11 weekly flights to 14.
- Toronto: Increased from 5 weekly flights to 7.
These increases are part of Qatar Airways’ ongoing commitment to enhancing its services to business travelers and tourists, ensuring that more people can enjoy convenient and seamless travel to and from Qatar’s state-of-the-art hub at Hamad International Airport.
Strengthening Partnerships and Expanding Services
As part of its growth strategy, Qatar Airways is also increasing its partnership with Virgin Australia, launching new flights from Melbourne to Doha. This will increase capacity to three daily flights between the two cities, providing even more options for travelers in Australia seeking connectivity to Qatar Airways’ global network.
Additionally, the airline will restart services to Canberra, reinforcing its commitment to improving connectivity between Australia and the rest of the world.
Business Travel and Tourism: What This Means for Passengers
For business travelers, these increased flight frequencies provide a wider range of options for efficient travel to key international hubs like London, Frankfurt, and Johannesburg. With more frequent flights, business travelers can more easily manage schedules, attend meetings, and enjoy greater flexibility.
For tourists, the added flights to destinations like Cape Town, the Maldives, and São Paulo open up new opportunities to explore and experience different cultures, scenic destinations, and luxury vacations. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or seeking new travel experiences, Qatar Airways is making it easier to reach top destinations across the globe.
Hamad International Airport: A Gateway for the Future of Travel
With its reputation as the Best Airport in the Middle East, Hamad International Airport continues to play a vital role in Qatar Airways’ success. Passengers flying through Doha can expect an award-winning airport experience, including world-class facilities, shopping, and dining options. The airport’s efficiency and modern infrastructure contribute significantly to the airline’s ability to increase its global reach and deliver a seamless travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.
The airport’s connectivity further solidifies Qatar Airways’ position as a global leader in the aviation industry, particularly as it continues to offer free Wi-Fi with Starlink on over 50 widebody aircraft—a unique service in the Middle East.
Digital Innovation: Enhancing the Travel Experience
In addition to expanding its flight offerings, Qatar Airways has also made significant advancements in digital services for travelers. The airline has rolled out ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi on its fleet of Boeing 777s, ensuring that passengers enjoy high-speed internet with speeds of up to 500 Mbps during their flight. This is part of the airline’s ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance the customer experience, especially for those flying long-haul.
Travel Tips for Qatar Airways Passengers
- Plan Ahead: With increased flights to key destinations, check the availability of your preferred flights early, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Make the Most of Connectivity: Take advantage of the free Starlink Wi-Fi on Qatar Airways’ long-haul flights for work, entertainment, and staying connected.
- Join the Loyalty Program: Take full advantage of the Qatar Airways Privilege Club for added perks, including priority booking, extra baggage allowances, and more.
- Explore New Destinations: With new flights to destinations like São Paulo and Cape Town, now is the perfect time to plan your next adventure with Qatar Airways.
Conclusion: Qatar Airways Leads the Way in Global Connectivity
With its expanded winter flight schedule, Qatar Airways continues to demonstrate its leadership in the aviation industry. By increasing its flight frequencies to over 15 destinations, including up to 10 daily flights to London, the airline is providing passengers with greater flexibility and choice. As a global leader in connectivity, Qatar Airways is enhancing the travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.
For those planning international travel, Qatar Airways’ new winter schedule offers greater access to some of the world’s most popular destinations, backed by the airline’s renowned service and world-class airport facilities.
Flight Buzz
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, AirAsia X Opens a New Chapter in Connectivity with Direct Flights Starting in October

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.
Flight Buzz
Batik Air Expands Connectivity with New Direct Flights from Samarinda to Surabaya

Saturday, August 2, 2025
Batik Air has announced the launch of a new direct flight route between Samarinda, to Surabaya. This strategic addition to Batik Air’s domestic network is designed to improve accessibility between two vital regions in Indonesia. The route not only makes travel more convenient but also strengthens the airline’s position as a leading carrier within the archipelago.
Enhancing Domestic Travel Connectivity
Travel within Indonesia has always been an essential part of the nation’s economy and with the launch of the Samarinda-Surabaya direct flights, Batik Air is taking a significant step to improve domestic air connectivity.
Surabaya, known for its rich history and bustling urban environment, has long been a key destination for both domestic and international travelers. With the addition of this direct route, visitors from Samarinda and surrounding areas will now have a streamlined, quick connection to explore Surabaya’s vibrant tourism offerings, including its colonial-era architecture, extensive shopping options, and the surrounding natural beauty of East Java.
Tourism Growth Between Samarinda and Surabaya
Samarinda, a city surrounded by lush forests, rivers and natural parks, offers travelers a peaceful retreat with an abundance of cultural and natural attractions. On the other hand, Surabaya serves as an exciting urban escape with a rich cultural heritage, shopping malls, museums, and culinary hotspots.
This new flight route opens up opportunities to experience both the tranquil beauty of East Kalimantan and the urban excitement of Surabaya, all with a convenient and accessible flight option. Whether travelers are looking to explore Samarinda’s natural beauty or Surabaya’s cultural vibrancy. The direct connection will undoubtedly make both cities more accessible to a wider range of visitors.
Moreover, Surabaya has long been considered a gateway to East Java, and now, with Batik Air’s new flight route, it is poised to attract even more domestic and international tourists. As the tourism industry continues to grow, this direct flight will further solidify Surabaya as a regional tourism center.
Business Opportunities and Economic Exchange
In addition to tourism, the direct flights between Samarinda and Surabaya are set to open up new business opportunities. Both cities are vital economic hubs within Indonesia, each contributing to key industries in the region. Samarinda is an important center for industries such as forestry, mining and energy, while Surabaya is a thriving commercial port city, home to Indonesia’s second-largest seaport, Tanjung Perak.
With this new air connection, business professionals in sectors like manufacturing, trade, energy and agriculture will find it easier to attend meetings, conferences and trade shows in both cities. Furthermore, the flight will facilitate the exchange of goods and services between East Kalimantan and East Java, contributing to both regions’ economic development. It is anticipated that the enhanced connectivity will make it easier for businesses in both areas to collaborate, strengthening Indonesia’s position as a growing regional market.
Flight Details and Travel Convenience
Batik Air’s new direct flights between Samarinda and Surabaya will be offered regularly, making it convenient for travelers to plan their trips. The airline has emphasized its commitment to providing affordable and reliable travel options for all passengers, with both economy and premium class seating available. This flexibility ensures that business travelers and leisure tourists alike can find a flight option that suits their needs and budget.
Promoting Local Tourism and Regional Identity
As Batik Air continues to expand its network, the airline is playing a significant role in promoting Indonesia’s diverse tourism offerings. Samarinda is home to the beautiful Mahakam River and the nearby Kutai National Park, which offers eco-tourism opportunities that are perfect for nature enthusiasts. Surabaya, on the other hand, is rich in cultural heritage, with landmarks such as the House of Sampoerna and the famous Surabaya Zoo.
This new flight route serves as a bridge between the two regions, allowing travelers to experience different aspects of Indonesian life. From the untouched nature of East Kalimantan to the vibrant urban lifestyle of Surabaya, this new connection celebrates the country’s diversity while supporting the growth of its tourism industry.
Samarinda-Surabaya Flights: A Gateway to New Experiences
The direct flights between Samarinda and Surabaya will undoubtedly increase the frequency of travelers moving between these two dynamic cities. Not only will this route cater to the growing number of Indonesian tourists, but it will also attract international visitors who are eager to explore the lesser-known but equally beautiful parts of the country. For many, this flight will serve as the gateway to new experiences, from the stunning landscapes of East Kalimantan to the historical depth of Surabaya.
Batik Air’s Continued Commitment to Affordable Accessible Travel
Batik Air’s new route is a testament to the airline’s ongoing commitment to offering affordable travel options while enhancing accessibility to destinations that have traditionally been harder to reach. As the airline continues to grow, its focus on providing high-quality, budget-friendly services remains at the core of its mission.
Strengthening Domestic Connectivity
Batik Air’s launch of the direct flight route between Samarinda and Surabaya represents a significant milestone for both tourism and business travel. This new connection will undoubtedly lead to increased travel between East Kalimantan and East Java, contributing to the growth of both regions. By making it easier for travelers to explore the natural beauty of Samarinda and the cultural richness of Surabaya, Batik Air is helping to make Indonesia’s diverse destinations more accessible than ever before.
Flight Buzz
Loganair Campaign Reunites Long-Distance Friends With Complimentary Flights, Launches New Routes And Expands Services In 2025

Saturday, August 2, 2025
Loganair has launched an exciting new campaign, the “Season of Connections,” offering long-distance friends the chance to reunite with complimentary flights. The airline is asking participants to share their heartfelt stories on Instagram or Facebook, explaining why their friendship deserves a reunion. The winners will receive return flights to meet in person, with the reunion scheduled for autumn 2025.
This campaign emphasizes the importance of human connections and how regional travel can play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between loved ones who live far apart. Loganair hopes to bring joy to friends who may have been separated for months or even years by offering them the opportunity to reunite through air travel.
How to Enter the Competition
- Eligibility: Open to anyone with a long-distance friend.
- Submission: Participants are encouraged to share their stories on Loganair’s Instagram or Facebook pages.
- Competition Deadline: The competition runs until Sunday, August 17, 2025.
- Announcement of Winners: Winners will be announced later this summer, with the reunion planned for autumn.
Loganair’s “Season of Connections” campaign continues the airline’s tradition of engaging with the public. It follows the success of their Christmas giveaway campaign, which offered a year of free flights to one lucky winner, and Loganair hopes to replicate that success by creating another memorable moment for friends separated by distance.
Loganair’s New Routes and Enhanced Experiences for 2025
In addition to the “Season of Connections” campaign, Loganair is expanding its network in 2025, introducing new routes and experiences to cater to growing demand and improve regional connectivity.
New Southampton Base and Routes
- New Base: Loganair will open a new base at Southampton Airport in October 2025.
- Capacity Expansion: The new base will increase Loganair’s annual seat capacity by over 140,000.
- New Routes: The airline will introduce new routes from Southampton to Manchester, and from Manchester to Exeter.
- Increased Capacity: The popular Southampton to Edinburgh route will see an increase in capacity from 49 to 72 passengers.
This expansion will help strengthen regional travel links and provide more options for passengers in southern England to connect to major cities and remote islands.
Edinburgh to Guernsey Direct Flight
- New Route: Loganair will operate a new direct service from Edinburgh to Guernsey.
- Flight Duration: The weekly flight departs Edinburgh at 16:10 and arrives in Guernsey at 18:10. The return leg departs Guernsey at 18:40, arriving back in Edinburgh at 20:45.
- Seasonal Service: The service will operate every Saturday from May 24 to September 13, 2025.
- Destination Appeal: Guernsey, with its beautiful beaches and historical sites, offers a perfect getaway for travelers seeking a scenic retreat.
This direct flight adds to Loganair’s growing portfolio of regional routes, offering more travel options for passengers in Scotland looking to explore the Channel Islands.
Glasgow to Newquay Seasonal Route
- New Seasonal Route: Loganair will launch a seasonal weekly route from Glasgow to Newquay, Cornwall.
- Flight Frequency: The service will operate every Saturday, starting May 31, 2025.
- Duration: The flight will take approximately one hour and 40 minutes.
- Pricing: Fares start at £89.99, including a 21kg luggage allowance.
- Destination Highlights: Newquay is a popular coastal destination known for its surfing beaches and scenic landscapes.
This new route offers an additional connection to one of the UK’s most sought-after beach destinations.
Loganair’s “Kids Fly Free” Promotion
Loganair is also introducing a family-friendly initiative with its “Kids Fly Free” promotion. For a limited time, children aged 11 and under can fly for free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. The offer applies to travel starting June 1, 2025, and is available for select routes. Only taxes and surcharges will apply for children’s tickets, making family vacations more affordable.
This promotion runs from May 15 to May 25, 2025, and is available on routes including Edinburgh to Guernsey and Glasgow to Newquay, further enhancing the airline’s appeal to families looking to take a summer vacation.
Loganair’s Customer Service and Satisfaction
Loganair has earned high marks for its exceptional customer service. In the latest Which? annual survey of short-haul airlines, Loganair was ranked second with a customer satisfaction score of 72%. The airline received five-star ratings for its customer service and four stars for booking, boarding, and cleanliness.
Loganair’s dedication to customer satisfaction remains a core focus as it continues to enhance the travel experience. The airline is known for its friendly service and commitment to providing a reliable, comfortable journey for all passengers.
Conclusion
Loganair’s “Season of Connections” campaign and its expansion of new routes in 2025 mark exciting developments for the airline. With an emphasis on reuniting long-distance friends and expanding travel options across the UK, Loganair continues to make regional travel more accessible and enjoyable. The airline’s focus on customer satisfaction and community engagement ensures that it will remain a key player in connecting people across the UK and beyond. Whether you’re seeking a reunion or a new adventure, Loganair’s new offerings make 2025 an exciting year for travelers.
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