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China Express Launches Tianjin–Khabarovsk Route

China Express Airlines has expanded its international network by launching a new route connecting Tianjin, Jiamusi, and Khabarovsk, providing a direct link between China and Russia’s Far East. This new service began on October 29, 2024, and is operated three times a week using an Airbus A320. The addition aligns with China Express’s strategy to…

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Air Canada to Boost Direct Flights to China Following Policy Shift

Air Canada announced plans to increase its direct flights to China starting December 2024, following the Canadian government’s recent decision to lift restrictions on Chinese airlines’ flights to Canada. This policy shift, reversing a 2022 limit, paves the way for improved bilateral connectivity, aiming to bolster economic ties and ease travel for business and leisure…

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Pakistan Receives Single Bid for PIA Stake in Privatization Push

Pakistan’s government, in its bid to privatize Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), received only one bid from a shortlist of six potential bidders. Blue World City, a major real estate consortium with diversified interests, has emerged as the sole bidder for a 60% stake in PIA. This privatization aligns with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif‘s commitments to…

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Argentina Secures FAA Extension to Maintain Category 1 Safety Rating

The Argentine Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has obtained a one-year extension from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to address necessary adjustments to maintain its Category 1 safety rating. This status allows Argentine carriers to operate routes to the United States without additional restrictions. The extension, which runs through the end of 2024, reflects both…

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Qingdao Tourism Group Acquires 50% Stake in Qingdao Airlines

After a prolonged two-year process, Qingdao Tourism Group has officially acquired a 50% share in Qingdao Airlines, previously held by Qingdao Urban Construction Investment Group. This significant shift reflects ongoing strategic efforts to strengthen the airline’s growth and regional influence in China’s competitive aviation market. The transfer aligns with Qingdao Tourism Group’s goal to expand…

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Boeing to Support Nigeria’s Airlines with Aircraft Leasing Solutions

Boeing is set to meet with Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, in January 2025 in Dublin to explore options for supporting Nigeria’s domestic airline sector through tailored aircraft leasing solutions. With the country’s air travel demand steadily rising, this collaboration aims to provide Nigerian carriers with improved access to modern fleets, essential for efficiency…

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Avianca to Begin Direct Flights from Bogotá to Havana in December

Starting December 16, 2024, Avianca will introduce a daily direct flight from Bogotá, Colombia, to Havana, Cuba, aiming to boost tourism and cultural connectivity between the two nations. The route, operated by A320 family aircraft, is expected to provide over 2,500 seats weekly, accommodating both leisure and business travelers. This new service allows easier access…

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airBaltic Delays Rzeszow Route Launch to November 2024

airBaltic has rescheduled the start date for its Riga–Rzeszow service to November 8, 2024. Initially set for October 28, the route will now operate twice weekly, served by Airbus A220-300 aircraft. This adjustment aligns with airBaltic’s winter strategy, which features new seasonal routes across the Baltic region, including connections from Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius to…

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Ireland-Based Aircraft Lessors Face Tax Scrutiny from India

Ireland-based aircraft leasing firms, widely favored by Indian airlines for fleet expansion, are now under scrutiny from India’s tax authorities. The investigation stems from concerns that these lessors might be exploiting favorable tax treaties, specifically by structuring their businesses in Ireland to minimize tax liabilities in India. Leasing companies registered in Ireland benefit from the…

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El Salvador Advances Open Skies Agreements to Boost Economy and Airline Competition

El Salvador is strategically advancing its open skies agreements, seeking to foster economic growth, increase airline competition, and lower air travel costs. While the country enacted open skies policies in 2013, the government, under President Nayib Bukele, has amplified its efforts recently, securing 22 agreements globally, including new partnerships with Brazil and Uruguay. Vice Minister…