airline news

SITA launches Bag Radar at PTE World 2026, a cloud-based tool using AI and predictive analytics to spot baggage risks like missed connections and mishandled bags early. Airlines and airports gain real-time insights to cut disruptions and costs without major infrastructure changes.

Singapore Airlines deploys Airbus A350 on Singapore-Manila service with premium Business Class and Premium Economy cabins, elevating the short-haul travel experience between Southeast Asia's two major hubs.

Shanghai kicks off 2026 cruise season with visa-free perks and dual luxury port calls in one week, spotlighting Ritz-Carlton Yacht and Seven Seas Explorer. Discover ultra-luxury Yangtze and Asia voyages reviving China's top port.

Shanghai's tourism explodes in 2026 with visa-free entry for Canada and UK citizens driving record arrivals. Spring Festival saw 21.67 million visitors and 25.6 billion yuan spending, up 8.36% and 20.90% year-on-year, fueled by new policies and extended holidays.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) reports 96 delays and 11 cancellations on March 12, 2026, hitting United, Delta, American Airlines amid federal shutdown staffing crisis. [FAA](https://www.faa.gov) cuts flights 10% at 40 airports for safety. Travelers face nationwide disruptions — check status now.

Russia's domestic tourism hit 173.9 million trips in 2025, up 7.4% year-on-year, with Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Krasnodar Krai leading demand. Spending reached 1.94 trillion rubles amid a shift to premium experiences, mirroring booms in Germany, France, Italy, and others.

King Khalid International Airport (RUH/ OERK) in Riyadh stays open despite regional security issues, but numerous international flights face cancellations and delays. Travelers must check airline status before heading to the airport as Gulf airspace restrictions disrupt schedules.

Radisson Hotel Group signs Mana Island Resort & Spa Fiji under Radisson Individuals, expanding luxury options in the Mamanuca Islands with a 160-key property set to reopen in late 2027 after refurbishment.

Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan, cancelled 28 flights and delayed 27 others on March 18, 2026, affecting Royal Jordanian, Saudia, Emirates, and Egypt Air. Hundreds of passengers stranded as regional airspace tensions escalate.

Qatar Airways will run a reduced flight schedule from 18-28 March 2026 due to Qatari airspace restrictions, impacting routes to London, Mumbai, Bangkok and more. Affected passengers qualify for two free rebookings up to 30 April 2026 or full refunds.

Qatar Airways has evacuated nearly 1000 Indian nationals from Doha to New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi as West Asia airspace closures strand thousands due to escalating conflict. Additional flights continue amid the crisis affecting major Gulf hubs.

Pakistan International Airlines suspends flights to UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait due to escalating Middle East tensions from US-Israel strikes on Iran. Over 500 flights canceled in three days from Pakistan airports, with 64 grounded Tuesday alone. Travelers face major disruptions to Gulf routes.