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Airport Development

BeOnd Signs LOI To Launch Bahrain Airline, Projects 1,200 Jobs And $1.5B Boost SEO DES: beOnd plans to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, serving leisure and business markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America SOCIAL: beOnd has signed a Letter of Intent with Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs to explore launching a Bahrain-based premium airline and obtain a local AOC. The project, formalised on 16 February 2026, aims to create over 1,200 direct jobs, support 6,000 indirect roles, and contribute up to $1.5 billion to Bahrain’s GDP within five years. The airline plans to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, expand premium connectivity across key global markets, and align with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 to strengthen the kingdom’s position as a regional aviation hub. Manama, Bahrain: beOnd, a premium leisure airline, has taken a significant step toward expanding its global footprint with a plan to establish an airline base in the Kingdom of Bahrain, following the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA). The agreement, formalised on 16 February 2026, will see beOnd explore the launch of a Bahrain-based airline and pursue a Bahraini Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Once operational, the airline intends to support Bahrain’s ambition to strengthen its status as a regional aviation hub, diversify its economy, and enhance international connectivity. According to official projections from beOnd, the venture could generate more than 1,200 direct high-skilled jobs spanning pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff. In addition, the initiative is expected to support over 6,000 indirect roles in related sectors such as tourism, hospitality and logistics. Over the first five years of operations, beOnd forecasts a contribution of $1.2–$1.5 billion to Bahrain’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The airline has also outlined plans to establish structured training programmes for aviation professionals, including simulator and maintenance facilities. These initiatives aim to position Bahrain as a centre of excellence for advanced aviation skills. Under the agreement, beOnd intends to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, serving both leisure and business markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America. The Bahrain base will be part of a broader network alongside the airline’s core operations in the Maldives and proposed subsidiaries in other regions. Established in late 2023, beOnd operates as a luxury leisure carrier with a fleet of narrow-body aircraft configured exclusively with premium cabins. The airline has grown its network from its Maldives hub to destinations including Dubai, Riyadh, Zurich, Munich and Milan. The expansion into Bahrain is part of beOnd’s multi-jurisdictional growth strategy, which also includes ongoing efforts to secure AOCs and operating rights in other markets. In late 2025, the airline began the process to launch a subsidiary in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The planned airline aligns with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification, private-sector growth and the development of specialised talent. The move underscores Bahrain’s commitment to expanding its aviation sector and increasing its global connectivity footprint.

beOnd Signs LOI To Launch Bahrain Airline, Projects 1,200 Jobs And $1.5B Boost

Aviation Today News Desk / February 17, 2026

Manama, Bahrain: beOnd, a premium leisure airline, has taken a significant step toward expanding its global footprint with a plan […]

Sakaka, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has officially inaugurated the New Al‑Jouf International Airport in Sakaka, a strategic development aimed at expanding air connectivity in the Kingdom’s northern region. The ceremony was led by Prince Faisal bin Nawaf, Emir of Al‑Jouf, alongside Transport Minister Saleh bin Nasser Al‑Jasser, GACA President Abdulaziz Al‑Duailej, and other senior officials. The inauguration signals a significant step forward in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions to modernize transport infrastructure and promote regional economic development. The new facility expands passenger capacity from 175,000 to 1.6 million annually, addressing growing demand for both domestic and international travel in the northern region. The airport’s 24,000-square-meter terminal is equipped with advanced passenger processing facilities, including two boarding bridges, seven departure gates, four arrival gates, 16 check-in counters, and modern automated passport control systems. Additional amenities include seven smart gates, a 470-meter baggage conveyor system, commercial and retail zones totaling 1,700 sqm, children’s play areas, and parking for 648 vehicles. At launch, the airport is served by three domestic Saudi airlines and four international carriers, connecting Al‑Jouf to destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Sharjah, Dubai, Cairo, and Assiut. Domestic operations constitute the majority of flights, with Riyadh emerging as the busiest route, offering 38 weekly flights. Officials highlighted that the new airport will significantly improve travel convenience and reduce transit times for passengers in northern Saudi Arabia. Beyond passenger services, the airport is expected to stimulate tourism, trade, and local business development. The modern infrastructure will facilitate increased regional economic activity, create new employment opportunities, and serve as a gateway for international travelers exploring northern Saudi Arabia. GACA confirmed that full flight operations are scheduled to commence in February 2026, following final operational testing. Minister Al‑Jasser lauded the project as a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in modern transportation and logistics, stating that the airport “represents a strategic gateway for the northern region and a key enabler of tourism, commerce, and regional connectivity.” The airport also aligns with broader national objectives to diversify the economy, expand the tourism sector, and integrate Saudi Arabia more fully into global aviation networks. The inauguration of Al‑Jouf International Airport marks a transformative moment for northern Saudi Arabia, combining modern passenger facilities, expanded flight connectivity, and economic development potential. With its capacity to handle over 1.6 million passengers annually, the airport is expected to become a central hub for both domestic and international travel, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a regional aviation and tourism leader.

Saudi Arabia Inaugurates Al-Jouf International Airport With 1.6 Million Capacity

Aviation Today News Desk / January 23, 2026

Sakaka, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has officially inaugurated the New Al‑Jouf International Airport in Sakaka, a strategic development aimed at

Istanbul, Turkey: Turkish Airlines has announced a major infrastructure investment exceeding $2.3 billion to develop what it says will be the world’s largest air cargo terminal and an integrated in-flight catering facility, marking a significant expansion of its logistics and service capabilities. The project is expected to be located at Istanbul Airport, the airline’s primary hub, although final site details are yet to be formally confirmed. Once completed, the new complex will significantly expand Turkish Airlines’ cargo handling capacity and strengthen Istanbul’s position as a global aviation and logistics gateway connecting Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. According to the airline, the cargo terminal will be designed to handle several million tonnes of freight annually, far exceeding current capacity levels. Turkish Cargo, already among the world’s leading air freight operators, transported close to two million tonnes of cargo annually in recent years, and the new facility is intended to support long-term growth in global air freight demand. Alongside cargo operations, the investment includes the construction of a next-generation in-flight catering facility. The integrated design is aimed at improving efficiency, food quality control, and scalability for Turkish Airlines’ extensive passenger network, which serves more countries than any other airline globally. The airline estimates that the project will create approximately 26,000 jobs, including direct employment and roles across supporting industries such as logistics, ground handling, supply chain services, and catering operations. Turkish Airlines has positioned the investment as both a strategic aviation initiative and a broader economic development project for Türkiye. Industry analysts note that the investment aligns with Turkish Airlines’ wider expansion strategy, which includes large-scale fleet growth plans and continued emphasis on cargo as a key revenue driver. The carrier has been expanding its long-haul and widebody fleet while reinforcing Istanbul Airport’s role as a major intercontinental hub. Turkish Airlines executives have stated that the project will enhance operational resilience, reduce dependency on third-party facilities, and support the airline’s ambition to remain competitive in both passenger and cargo markets amid global supply chain shifts. Further technical specifications, construction timelines, and operational milestones are expected to be announced in subsequent phases of the project.

Turkish Airlines Plans $2.3bn Investment For World’s Largest Cargo Terminal At Istanbul

Aviation Today News Desk / January 5, 2026

Istanbul, Turkey: Turkish Airlines has announced a major infrastructure investment exceeding $2.3 billion to develop what it says will be

Manama, Bahrain: On 3 December 2025, Oman's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) welcomed the decision by leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to create a unified GCC Civil Aviation Authority under the umbrella of the GCC General Secretariat. The resolution, adopted during the 46th session of the Supreme Council in Bahrain, marks a strategic milestone for Gulf-wide aviation cooperation. According to CAA, this move underscores the GCC states’ commitment to harmonize their civil aviation systems in line with evolving global regulatory and technological standards. The unified authority aims to enhance safety, security, sustainability, and overall competitiveness across the region’s aviation sector. In a statement, CAA President Naif bin Ali Al‑Abri said the establishment of the GCC-wide authority represents a continuation of long‑standing Gulf cooperation. He described it as the beginning of a new era of joint action and reaffirmed Oman’s support for deeper integration especially through regulatory modernization, aviation resource development, and unified representation in international aviation forums. The GCC Civil Aviation Authority will work to unify civil aviation regulations and policies among member states, aligning national legislation under a common Gulf framework capable of keeping pace with rapid developments in global aviation. It will also promote cooperation on infrastructure development, including airports and navigation systems, support training and capacity‑building of aviation personnel, and encourage investment. Beyond regulatory and infrastructure harmonization, the authority will coordinate efforts on safety and security standards, environmental sustainability, passenger rights and travel procedures all with the goal of elevating service quality and strengthening the Gulf’s competitiveness in international civil aviation. The CAA highlighted that GCC‑CAA will not only unify regulatory frameworks but will also enhance passenger experience, elevate safety and security standards, and encourage environmentally sustainable practices in line with global civil aviation developments. By consolidating oversight and coordination at the regional level, GCC states aim to boost efficiency, competitiveness, and the global reputation of Gulf aviation. Oman CAA concluded by reaffirming its commitment to working closely with the new authority and its fellow GCC member states to ensure successful implementation of the unified framework, while maintaining a strong focus on safety, operational excellence, and sustainable growth across the Gulf’s aviation sector.

Oman CAA Welcomes GCC Civil Aviation Authority, Boosting Regional Aviation Integration

Aviation Today News Desk / December 11, 2025

Manama, Bahrain: On 3 December 2025, Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) welcomed the decision by leaders of the Gulf Cooperation

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia is preparing to launch three new airlines, a significant expansion of its aviation ecosystem as the kingdom accelerates its Vision 2030 strategy to boost tourism, improve connectivity and transform into a global aviation hub. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, confirmed the plan, saying the new carriers will complement the existing network led by Saudia, Riyadh Air, flynas and flyadeal. “A successful national airline builds a destination, Riyadh Air, Saudia and three more air carriers to be announced,” he said. The first of the three new carriers will be a low-cost airline based at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. The airline will be operated by a consortium comprising Air Arabia, Nesma Group, and KUN Holding, after the group won the government tender earlier this year. According to public disclosures, the new LCC plans to operate 45 aircraft by 2030, fly 24 domestic and 57 international routes, and handle around 10 million passengers annually. It is also expected to generate approximately 2,400 direct jobs once fully operational. These developments align with Saudi Arabia’s push to decentralize aviation capacity beyond Jeddah and Riyadh, strengthening the Eastern Province as a competitive hub for both domestic and regional travel. A second airline will be established in Medina, focused on serving the booming religious tourism sector. The carrier is expected to support Hajj and Umrah operations by providing direct international connectivity to the holy city, reducing pressure on Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport. Government officials indicated that tenders for the Medina-based airline are expected within months, signaling that planning is already in advanced stages. The third airline remains undisclosed, with no public confirmation on whether it will be a full-service, hybrid or low-cost carrier. Industry observers say the airline could target underserved regional markets or support long-haul connectivity as Saudi Arabia expands its inbound tourism targets. Saudi Arabia handled 128 million passengers in 2024, a double-digit increase that has reinforced the need for expanded airline capacity and airport infrastructure. The kingdom has committed $100 billion to overhaul and modernize its aviation sector, including airport development, new carriers, digital transformation and long-term fleet investments. Riyadh Air is scheduled to launch international operations in 2025, while Saudia Group is expanding through flyadeal’s recent order of 10 Airbus A330neo aircraft, signaling the nation’s broader shift toward becoming a top global aviation market. The launch of three new airlines represents one of the most aggressive aviation expansions currently underway globally, positioning Saudi Arabia to handle its revised tourism target of 150 million annual visitors by 2030.

Saudi Arabia To Launch Three New Airlines To Boost Tourism And Aviation Growth

Aviation Today News Desk / November 24, 2025

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia is preparing to launch three new airlines, a significant expansion of its aviation ecosystem as

Mumbai, India: On October 8, 2025, the first phase of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) was inaugurated, marking a significant milestone in India’s aviation sector. Built at a cost of around Rs 19,650 crore under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model by the Adani Group, the airport is expected to ease congestion at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and enhance the city’s position as a global aviation hub. Phase 1 of NMIA features Terminal 1 and Runway 1, equipped with 10 bus gates and 29 aero bridges. The facility is designed to handle 20 million passengers annually, with plans to expand capacity to 90 million in future phases. Its lotus-inspired architecture includes 12 sculptural columns resembling petals and 17 mega columns supporting the roof, reflecting India’s cultural heritage. Situated in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai, about 37 kilometers from South Mumbai, NMIA is integrated with multimodal transport options, including metro, roadways, and public transport systems, ensuring seamless connectivity. The airport also hosts India’s largest aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities, positioning it as a major cargo and logistics hub. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the inauguration ceremony, alongside Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, highlighting the national importance of the project. Chief Minister Fadnavis announced that the first ticket issued from the airport would bear the name of the late D.B. Patil, a prominent farmer leader and legislator. Commercial operations are scheduled to begin in December 2025. NMIA’s advanced facilities, strategic location, and integration with multimodal transport networks are set to transform Mumbai’s aviation landscape. In addition, the 'Mumbai One' app was launched to enhance urban mobility. The platform integrates services from 11 public transport operators across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, allowing seamless travel on trains, metros, buses, monorails, and Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT), which serves around 200,000 passengers daily.

New Navi Mumbai Airport Inaugurated, Set to Handle 20 Million Passengers Annually

Aviation Today News Desk / October 13, 2025

Mumbai, India: On October 8, 2025, the first phase of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) was inaugurated, marking a

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