Saudi Arabia's new Air Arabia-backed low-cost carrier commenced operations from Dammam on 21 September 2026, shortly after receiving its GACA AOC. The airline initially serves Riyadh and Jeddah twice daily and Medina daily, using 174-seat Airbus A320s. Established by a consortium comprising Air Arabia Group, Nesma Group and Kun Holding, the new operation supports Saudi Arabia's expansion of domestic connectivity and Air Arabia's wider multi-hub strategy.

Japan Airlines has renewed its Embraer parts pool agreement covering J-Air's 32 E-Jets, providing rapid access to repairable components to reduce aircraft downtime. J-Air currently operates 18 E170s and 14 E190s, with average fleet ages of 14.6 and 9.3 years respectively. The renewed agreement supports continued component availability and operational reliability across the regional fleet.

United Airlines Group retained the top global position for passenger traffic in 2025, with RPKs rising 5%, while American and Delta each grew 1%. Europe recorded more restrained growth, with Ryanair carrying 208 million passengers, while Gulf, African and Turkish carriers expanded more rapidly — Etihad grew traffic 23%, Ethiopian 18% and Pegasus 17%.

Asia-Pacific growth moderated overall, although Indian airlines continued to expand strongly and Cathay Pacific increased traffic 29%. Indonesia's Garuda and Lion Air groups experienced declining traffic and capacity, while Air New Zealand was constrained by engine-related aircraft availability.