Emirates in the Middle East and the airline arm of the UAE powerhouse
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has seen European and several other confederations pull back support after the aborted Forward Enterprise plan to privatise parts of the World Cup, amid varied backing from South American and African bodies.
The Guardian and other outlets report that President Trump has postponed a planned attack on Iran at the request of Gulf rulers, while signaling readiness to resume with a larger strike if negotiations fail. Officials note ongoing talks and a possible deal that would block Iran’s nuclear ambitions, but there is no immediate ceasefire breakthrough.
Lebanon’s Middle East Airlines remains under scrutiny as a safety audit probes pilot concerns about flying near conflict zones and wage-driven incentives. Regulators say compliance is intact, while pilots flag risks amid broader regional turbulence.
Oil flows through key Gulf routes have been disrupted as conflicts escalate. Countries are adjusting production and trade, while insurers assess risk. The Strait of Hormuz remains the focal point as sanctions’ adjustments and new toll discussions surface amid regional tensions.
Airlines face higher fuel bills as Middle East tensions push jet fuel prices up. IATA forecasts profits will halve in 2026 while fares rise to cover costs; some carriers warn of tougher times ahead as demand stays resilient.
The IATA predicts a sharp drop in airline profits for 2026 as fuel prices soar and airspace restrictions persist amid Middle East tensions. Airlines are raising fares, cutting routes and trimming schedules while demand remains resilient for now.
Saudi Arabia is expanding Riyadh Air as part of Vision 2030, aiming to turn the capital into a global aviation hub and reduce reliance on oil. The first Dreamliner deliveries have begun, with a plan to connect Riyadh to over 100 destinations and boost passenger capacity while expanding airport capacity to support this growth.
Qantas has unveiled modified A350-1000ULR jets for ultra-long direct routes from Sydney to London and New York, aiming to cut travel time to about 19–21 hours and boost premium cabins. Tickets will go on sale in February with flights starting in October 2027. The planes feature extra fuel tanks and a four-cabin layout to improve passenger comfort on journeys up to 22 hours.
Oman is exploring a tolling approach for the Strait of Hormuz while navigating international law, amid US opposition and regional pressure. Reports show ongoing transits and ongoing diplomacy as the crisis evolves.
The US has carried out repeated air and naval strikes across Iran to degrade Tehran's ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks on US bases and Gulf allies, and the IRGC has warned civilians near US forces to stay away; the exchanges have closed much of the strait and pushed oil prices higher.
The United Arab Emirates is pursuing a new port and container terminal on Fujairah’s east coast to reduce dependence on Jebel Ali and avoid the Strait of Hormuz. DP World is in talks to develop the site, with plans for a new multipurpose port and a terminal at the existing harbour, amid ongoing clashes linked to Iran’s attacks and U.S. and Israeli actions. Experts say the move signals a push for regional resilience as shipping routes face disruption.
Emirates has unveiled the U-Dream, an adjustable headrest designed to support the neck and head, rolling out across economy on A350s and expanding to A380s and 777s by 2027. The feature aims to improve comfort on long-haul flights, with pilots and crew highlighting reduced neck strain and the elimination of traditional neck pillows.
The FAA has issued a final airworthiness directive requiring visual inspections of a forward "bear strap" and fuselage skin on certain Boeing 737 Max models. The rule, effective Sept. 10, covers about 471 U.S.-registered Max jets and mirrors inspections already mandated for older Next-Generation 737s after reports of cracks in that part.
WestJet flight attendants have walked off the job over pay for duties performed while the plane is on the ground. CUPE 8125 says some ground work remains unpaid, while WestJet argues credit-hour compensation covers pre- and post-flight duties. A 72-hour strike notice has expired and negotiations continue, threatening further disruption for travellers over the long weekend.