Runway to Runway: ELIE SAAB Takes Flight with Saudia’s Luxe Amenity Kits for Sky-High Glamour

In an industry-first, Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, Saudia, has partnered with iconic haute couture house ELIE SAAB to launch an exclusive collection of inflight amenity kits that redefine what it means to travel in style. From red carpets to airport runways, this collaboration marks ELIE SAAB’s debut in the aviation world—and it’s taking luxury to new heights.

Couture Above the Clouds

For over four decades, ELIE SAAB has been synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and timeless design. From royals to Hollywood stars, the label’s glamorous aesthetic has long captivated the world of high fashion. Now, that same level of luxury has landed aboard Saudia’s First Class and Business Class cabins, offering premium guests a five-star experience well before arrival.

“This partnership represents the essence of Saudia’s transformation,” said Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer at Saudia. “Together, we are creating something truly extraordinary—taking the artistry and elegance of ELIE SAAB to the world while bringing the world to Saudi Arabia.”

What’s in the Bag? The Ultimate Inflight Indulgence

Saudia's amenity kits go beyond travel basics—they’re functional fashion statements. Each kit has been meticulously designed to reflect the ELIE SAAB ethos of elegance fused with modern-day utility. Here's a peek inside this bespoke collection:

First Class – Designed for the Elite

Female Guests:

• Outbound Flights: A quilted faux leather vanity case with the signature ELIE SAAB motif.
• Inbound Flights: A jewelry box-inspired design—sleek, sophisticated, and ready to repurpose post-flight.

Male Guests:

• Luxurious voyager cases crafted in premium pebble grain faux leather, complete with a side handle and detachable strap for versatile use.

Business Class – Style on Both Legs of the Journey

• Distinct designs for men and women on both outbound and inbound flights.
• Each kit exudes understated glamour, ensuring every traveler feels the ELIE SAAB touch, regardless of the route.

Skincare at 40,000 Feet

Each amenity kit contains a suite of exclusive ELIE SAAB skincare products:

• Revitalizing Face Mist
• Hand and Body Lotion
• ELIE SAAB Eau de Toilette for a signature scent that lingers with sophistication

It’s not just about staying refreshed; it’s about arriving radiant.

Luxury with a Conscience

In keeping with global sustainability goals, this collaboration also prioritizes the planet:

• Toothbrushes, socks, and eye masks made from recycled materials
• FSC-certified paper for cosmetic and dental kit packaging

This partnership proves you don’t have to choose between style and sustainability—you can have both, wrapped in couture.

Behind the Scenes: A Trio of Innovation

This pioneering inflight collection wouldn’t be possible without the creative convergence of three powerhouses:

• Saudia: Driving innovation in guest experience and luxury travel
• ELIE SAAB: Lending haute couture elegance to aviation
• FORMIA: The industry leader in premium, sustainable inflight products

“We are delighted to collaborate with Saudia and offer guests a glimpse into the refined world of ELIE SAAB,” said Elie Saab Jr., CEO of the ELIE SAAB Group.

Roland Grohmann, CEO of FORMIA, echoed the sentiment: “This collection blends sustainability with luxury—marking ELIE SAAB’s stunning debut in the skies.”

Elevating Expectations: The Future of Travel is Here

As Saudia continues to transform its fleet and guest experience, this ELIE SAAB collaboration is more than a fashionable footnote—it’s a statement of intent. It signals a new era in which travel is not just about reaching a destination, but about arriving with style, comfort, and consciousness.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, this collection promises to turn your next journey into a runway moment.

Final Boarding Call: Luxe is Now a Carry-On

Forget “just another flight.” With Saudia and ELIE SAAB, your journey begins the moment you step onboard. So pack your bags—or better yet, let Saudia hand you one that’s already perfect.

— A Sweet Tribute to the Guardians of the Skies

A Celebration at 36,000 Feet—Grounded in Gratitude

On 26 April 2025, something heartwarming happened at Bandaranaike International Airport, Sri Lanka’s aviation hub. While aircraft zipped across skies and flight plans buzzed through terminals, SriLankan Airlines paused to honor the very souls who make the skies safer and the world smaller—their pilots.

At the Flight Dispatch Centre, the usually stoic rhythm of flight operations gave way to laughter, gratitude, and yes—pilot-themed cupcakes. The airline marked International Pilots’ Day with a cozy, spirited gathering to show appreciation for their frontline fliers, the unsung heroes behind every smooth takeoff and safe landing.

More Than a Badge—A Symbol of Soaring Spirit

As part of the tribute, pilots were presented with special vehicle badges—not just any tokens, but emblems bearing the iconic winged crest of SriLankan Airlines. This small but symbolic gesture carried a powerful message:

“You are not just pilots. You are ambassadors of trust, dedication, and connection.”

These badges now gleam on their vehicles as everyday reminders of the lives they’ve changed—by bringing people together across oceans, time zones, and continents.

Cupcakes, Camaraderie & Cockpit Memories

The event wasn’t just about ceremonies. It was intimate and meaningful—cupcakes with icing shaped like tiny jets, stories shared of turbulent skies turned calm, and laughter echoing in the halls where flight logs and forecasts usually rule.

Pilots mingled, sharing anecdotes—from their first solo flights to unforgettable missions across the Indian Ocean. It was a chance to pull back the curtain on the life of a pilot—a mix of discipline, skill, adventure, and, at times, unimaginable pressure.

Connecting the Dots—And the World

SriLankan Airlines’ tribute comes at a time when aviation’s role in global connectivity has never been more profound. Whether it's reuniting families, enabling global trade, or aiding humanitarian missions, pilots do more than fly planes—they knit the world together.

SriLankan’s flight crews are especially known for navigating complex routes across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, maintaining a standard of excellence that reflects Sri Lanka’s warmth and hospitality.

Pilots: The Human Wings of Aviation

Behind every flight number is a face. A person who’s trained through thousands of hours, faced midnight layovers, fought through fatigue, and still smiled as passengers disembarked safely.

This Pilots’ Day, SriLankan Airlines reminded the world that aviation is not just about technology—it’s about humanity. It’s about the men and women in the cockpit who carry dreams, not just passengers.

Final Approach: A Toast to the Skywalkers

As the event wrapped up—with cupcakes half-eaten and badges proudly worn—it was clear that SriLankan Airlines had done more than host a gathering. They’d reignited pride in the profession, reminded everyone of the magic of flight, and added a touch of sweetness to high-flying responsibilities.

So next time you hear the click of a buckle or feel the plane tilt upward into the clouds, spare a thought for the pilot in command. They’re not just steering machines—they’re navigating lives.

Would you dare to fly if not for them?

Let us know how a pilot changed your journey—or your life.

In early April 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump effectively raised baseline tariffs on Chinese imports to 145%, triggering a swift Chinese response that saw duties on U.S. goods climb to 125%. This dramatic escalation shattered decades-old duty-free norms in global aviation, leaving both Chinese airlines and U.S. planemaker Boeing caught in a tariff tailspin.

Economists warn that such steep levies risk pushing the world economy toward recession: in a Reuters poll, 92% of surveyed economists said they viewed Trump’s tariffs negatively, downgrading 2025 global growth forecasts from 3.0% to 2.7%.

Planes in Limbo: Boeing’s 737 MAX Returns

China’s commerce ministry publicly acknowledged on April 29 that “China’s affected airlines and Boeing have suffered greatly,” marking the first time Beijing has commented on aviation-sector fallout from the trade war. The flashpoint: three 737 MAX jets, fully outfitted at Boeing’s Zhoushan completion center, were flown back to the United States after Chinese customers balked at accepting delivery under the new tariff regime. Industry sources say dozens more aircraft could be redirected or left in bonded storage to avoid the punitive levies.

Why Return Jets Instead of Paying Tariffs?

At roughly $55 million apiece, a 125% tariff adds nearly $69 million to the cost of each aircraft—an untenable burden for any airline. While Boeing explores alternative buyers for up to 50 stranded jets, Chinese carriers face capacity shortfalls just as Asia’s air travel demand is rebounding from the pandemic slump.

Ripple Effects: Supply Chains, Investment, and Air Travel

The tariff standoff extends well beyond undelivered planes. Beijing warns that U.S. levies have disrupted global supply chains, air transport, and cross-border investment activities. Component suppliers from landing-gear manufacturers to avionics producers now face uncertainty: delayed orders and cancelled contracts ripple through the aerospace ecosystem, threatening thousands of jobs on both sides of the Pacific. Meanwhile, Chinese airlines must weigh the financial hit of higher costs against fleet expansion plans essential to meet surging passenger demand across Asia.

Beijing’s Countermove: Targeted Exemptions and Olive Branches

In a bid to cushion the blow, China has begun exempting select U.S. imports from its 125% tariffs. French engine-maker Safran confirmed Beijing granted duty relief on critical aerospace parts—engines, landing gear, and other components—to keep existing maintenance and repair operations afloat. Additionally, Chinese authorities are surveying domestic firms to identify essential foreign-made goods that must flow tariff-free, signaling a willingness to preserve key industrial links despite the broader trade confrontation.

What’s Next? Charting a New Flight Path for Sino-U.S. Aviation Ties

Both governments profess openness to dialogue. China’s commerce ministry “hopes Washington will listen to companies’ concerns and create a stable trade environment”. On the U.S. side, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg has urged policymakers to seek a resolution, warning that exclusion from China—a market historically accounting for about 10% of Boeing’s $500 billion backlog—could undercut the planemaker’s recovery.

Analysts say a phased tariff rollback, coupled with side-deals on aerospace cooperation, may unlock the logjam. Until then, undelivered jets will sit idle, supply chains stay jittery, and both nations’ broader economic health remains at risk. As trade diplomats reconvene in coming weeks, the aviation industry watches nervously: the next move could determine whether these grounded ambitions ever take flight again.

With Inputs from Reuters

When two of the Northeast’s biggest carriers decide to rekindle their partnership, what could possibly go wrong? After the dramatic collapse of their Northeast Alliance (NEA), American Airlines and JetBlue Airways flirted with a fresh pact—only to see talks fizzle and tensions flare into a lawsuit. Here’s the inside story on what happened, why it matters, and where both airlines might be headed next.

Background: The Rise and Fall of the NEA

In July 2020, American and JetBlue launched the Northeast Alliance to coordinate flights and share revenue in the fiercely contested New York market. Approved just days before the end of the Trump administration in January 2021, the NEA promised to bolster American’s struggling presence at key airports and give JetBlue’s loyalty program a boost. However, a May 2023 non-jury trial found the alliance violated federal antitrust laws—a ruling later upheld on appeal—forcing the NEA’s unwinding and leaving both carriers to pick up the pieces.

Why Talks Collapsed: Money, Operations, and Antitrust Woes

American Airlines Vice Chair Steve Johnson revealed that despite “attractive proposals,” the two sides couldn’t agree on a structure that balanced operational efficiencies with financial viability. JetBlue, meanwhile, had been exploring partnerships with multiple carriers, willing even to inject more capital to clinch a deal—yet couldn’t bridge the gap with American’s demands. Beyond dollars and cents, lingering antitrust concerns hung over negotiations: any new pact risked fresh regulatory scrutiny after the NEA’s earlier undoing.

The Lawsuit: Dollars, Disputes, and Demands

With talks officially dead, American filed suit in a Texas court seeking over $1 million in unpaid funds tied to the NEA’s dissolution—excluding legal fees and costs. The lawsuit aims to reconcile accounting disputes and recover monies American temporarily set aside while negotiations were underway. For American, it’s as much about principle—holding JetBlue to its financial obligations—as it is about recouping cash.

JetBlue Responds: Cautious Collaboration Continues

JetBlue’s public response was measured: the carrier says it “has been working collaboratively with American to wind down the NEA” and will review the complaint, but declined further comment due to ongoing litigation. Behind the scenes, JetBlue still seeks alliances to enhance its network and loyalty offerings, speaking with other airlines even as legal fire sparks between the former partners.

What’s Next: Market Impacts and Strategic Shifts

• For Travelers: Expect less codeshare connectivity between the two airlines in the Northeast, potentially meaning fewer seamless itineraries and loyalty benefits.
• For Competitors: Other carriers like Delta and United may seize the moment, courting both airlines’ stranded customers with promotional fares and expanded service.
• For Regulators: The litigation underscores Washington’s wariness of airline consolidation—a trend that could shape future merger and partnership reviews.

Conclusion: Turbulence Ahead?

The abrupt end to American and JetBlue’s second bid at partnership underscores the high stakes of airline alliances in an era of antitrust vigilance. As both carriers chart independent courses—one through the courtroom, the other through alternate deals—passengers and investors will be watching closely. Will American recover its losses? Can JetBlue find a partner willing to navigate regulatory headwinds? The answers will help set the flight path for Northeast aviation in the years to come.

With Inputs from Reuters

In a world where aviation often finds itself in the crosshairs of environmental debates, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) is proving that flying high doesn’t have to come at Earth’s expense.

With a string of world-firsts, regional accolades, and planet-positive initiatives, BLR Airport is rapidly evolving from a transit hub into a beacon of sustainability, safety, and innovation. Under the stewardship of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), this green giant is not just catching global attention—it’s commanding it.

Let’s buckle in and explore how Asia’s first Level 5 carbon-accredited airport is leading the charge toward a cleaner, safer, and smarter aviation future.

Level 5 and Beyond: BLR Becomes Asia’s Carbon Accreditation Trailblazer

In a landmark achievement, BLR Airport became the first in Asia to receive Level 5 Accreditation under Airports Council International’s (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, effective May 5, 2024.

• Scope 1 & 2 Greenhouse Gas Emissions down by 95.6%
• Net-zero status achieved seven years ahead of the 2030 goal

This isn’t just sustainability—it’s a transformation. The award was formally handed over at the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly in New Delhi, celebrating what ACI called a "gold standard for responsible aviation."

Four-Time Winner: Leading the Pack in Green Energy

For the fourth consecutive year, BLR Airport bagged the Silver Award under ACI’s Green Airports Recognition 2025 for airports handling 15–38 million passengers—this time under the theme ‘Sustainable Energy at Airports’.

But that’s just the tip of the runway.

• 2022: Platinum – Carbon Management
• 2023: Platinum – Plastics Circularity
• 2025: Silver – Sustainable Energy

From installing solar farms to converting their airport to 100% renewable electricity, BLR Airport is making it clear: green energy isn’t an option—it’s the new runway to success.

Safety That Goes “Beyond Compliance”

Sustainability is just one half of the equation. BLR Airport was also awarded the Gold at the inaugural ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Safety Recognition Award 2025, for its bold paper “Beyond Compliance.”

The paper identified core safety challenges and proposed cutting-edge, data-backed solutions that led to real-world improvements. This award puts BLR Airport at the forefront of aviation safety culture in the region.

From the Top: A Vision Rooted in Responsibility

“Sustainability is not a standalone initiative—it is embedded in our vision,”

— Hari Marar, MD & CEO, BIAL

From reducing carbon emissions to leading climate-resilient innovation, Marar emphasizes that BLR’s mission is not just to grow—but to grow responsibly. This ethos is woven into every decision, every upgrade, and every partnership.

More Than an Airport: A Community, A Catalyst

BIAL’s approach goes well beyond emissions and infrastructure. With the Kempegowda International Airport Foundation (KIAF), the airport is driving real change in communities surrounding the airport.

• Rainwater harvesting
• Wastewater recycling
• Electric vehicle adoption
• Biodiversity conservation
• Forest & Water stewardship with the UN Global Compact

Yes, they’re flying planes. But they’re also planting seeds—for a greener, healthier future, both in the sky and on the ground.

Global Standards, Local Impact

BLR Airport's sustainability journey aligns with the United Nations Global Compact’s 10 universal principles—a commitment made official in 2023. Since then, it has co-hosted thought-leading events like “Uniting for Nature”, bringing global and local changemakers together for cross-sector action.

In a world where airports are often seen as necessary evils, BLR is flipping the narrative—proving that airports can be engines of climate action, safety, and community growth.

Looking Ahead: Reimagining Aviation from the Ground Up

With continued investment in green technology, digital transformation, safety innovations, and global collaboration, BIAL is redefining what an airport can and should be.

This isn’t just about airports. It’s about the future of flight. And from the look of it, that future just might take off from Bengaluru.

TL; DR – Why BLR Airport Is a Big Deal

• Asia’s first Level 5 ACI carbon-accredited airport
• 100% renewable electricity and net-zero emissions (Scope 1 & 2)
• Multiple ACI awards for sustainability and safety
• Strong focus on water, waste, biodiversity, and EV adoption
• Community upliftment and global partnerships with UNGC

So next time you fly through Bengaluru, know this: you’re not just taking off—you’re taking a step toward a better planet.

In a move that signals serious intent to soar beyond regional skies, Saudia Group has inked a transformative aircraft deal with European aerospace giant Airbus. The spotlight? The wide-body A330neo, an aircraft renowned for its fuel efficiency, extended range, and comfort.

Up to 20 of these futuristic flying machines are set to join Saudia Group’s growing fleet—10 as firm orders specifically for flyadeal, the group’s ambitious low-cost carrier that, until now, focused solely on short-haul routes. The deal was unveiled in style at the Airbus factory in Toulouse, France, with key figures from both organizations marking this monumental milestone.

From Low-Cost to Long-Haul? flyadeal’s Bold Transformation

This isn’t just another order—it’s a strategic pivot that could redefine flyadeal’s identity. With deliveries starting in 2027 and wrapping up by 2029, the carrier is poised to enter the long-haul market, a first for a Saudi LCC. That’s a serious elevation from budget-friendly regional hops to transcontinental journeys.

Imagine flying from Jeddah to London or Kuala Lumpur aboard a sleek new A330neo—on a low-cost ticket. That’s the dream flyadeal is investing in, and it could reshape the competition landscape not just in the Middle East, but globally.

The Bigger Picture: Saudi Vision 2030 Takes Flight

The signing comes hot on the heels of Saudia Group’s historic 105-aircraft deal with Airbus in 2023, reinforcing its role in the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030. This vision aims to connect 250 global destinations, attract over 150 million tourists, and facilitate the travel of 330 million passengers annually by the end of the decade.

H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, described the deal as a "pivotal milestone" in modernizing their fleet. More than just a corporate upgrade, this expansion supports national strategies for economic diversification, global connectivity, and tourism growth.

“This deal supports Saudia Group’s plans to grow and improve its operations. It adds to the modernization of our fleet, improves aircraft maintenance, and makes our overall operations more efficient,” Al-Omar stated.

Airbus: A Partner in Saudi Aviation's Rise

Airbus, clearly excited to back Saudi Arabia’s aviation evolution, emphasized the alignment of the A330neo with Saudi ambitions. With a seating capacity of around 260-300 passengers and a range of over 13,000 kilometers, the aircraft is a versatile workhorse for global routes.

“Saudia Group’s A330neo order for flyadeal marks a key step in advancing the Kingdom’s aviation ambition to unlock long-haul markets and attract new customers,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales at Airbus.

And there’s no shortage of confidence. Airbus believes the A330neo will become the “versatile champion” that flyadeal needs to deliver premium experiences at budget prices.

What This Means for Travelers and Competitors

Travelers can look forward to cheaper long-haul flights with upgraded comfort, potentially bridging continents for less. The A330neo’s state-of-the-art cabin features lower noise, better humidity, and advanced lighting systems for a smoother flying experience—on par with full-service carriers.

Meanwhile, competitors—especially regional giants like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad—might soon feel the pressure of flyadeal's expansion into their territory, albeit with a disruptive twist: affordable long-haul travel backed by a booming national aviation plan.

Fleet Growth on Steroids: 194 Today, 191 More Coming

Saudia Group isn’t just adding planes—they’re practically doubling their fleet. With 194 aircraft currently operating across commercial, cargo, and logistics services, an additional 191 new aircraft are already in the pipeline.

This move positions Saudia Group not only as a regional powerhouse but as a serious global player. With smart fleet decisions and bold ventures like flyadeal’s A330neo expansion, the future of aviation in Saudi Arabia looks sky-high.

Final Thoughts: A Wake-Up Call for Global Aviation?

This deal isn’t just another fleet expansion—it’s a wake-up call to the global aviation industry. A low-cost carrier in the Middle East gearing up for long-haul dominance? That’s a trendsetter in the making.

With state-backed ambition, modern aircraft, and a strategic eye on global connectivity, flyadeal may soon be flying high on routes once dominated by full-service giants—all while keeping prices down and efficiency up.

So buckle up. The skies just got more interesting.

Would you fly long-haul on a low-cost airline if it meant saving big? Let’s talk in the comments.