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The Airlines News You Might've Missed โ 3rd Week of Nov. 2025
UpgradedPoints.comยท 2025-11-22 17:00
Core Insights - Qatar Airways has successfully launched the first commercial passenger flight with Starlink Wi-Fi, enhancing in-flight connectivity across its fleet [1][2] - Etihad Airways has made significant improvements to its Etihad Guest loyalty program, allowing all seats to be booked with miles and introducing new features for earning Tier Miles [14][15] - Iberia and WestJet are expanding their route networks, with Iberia adding Toronto to its destinations and WestJet launching two new routes to Iceland [7][9][11] - The U.S.-Mexico slot dispute is evolving, with Mexico agreeing to return some landing and takeoff slots to U.S. airlines [18][19] - Arajet has completed its U.S. route network for 2025 and plans to expand further into the U.S. market [20][21] Qatar Airways and Starlink - Qatar Airways is leading the airline industry with the rollout of Starlink Wi-Fi on over 100 wide-body aircraft, providing high-speed, uninterrupted connectivity [2][3] - Other airlines, including Air France and United Airlines, are also adopting Starlink technology for improved in-flight internet services [4] Etihad Airways and Loyalty Program - Etihad's loyalty program, Etihad Guest, now offers "Saver Awards" for all seats, enhancing flexibility for members [14] - Members can earn Tier Miles on award tickets, a rarity in airline loyalty programs, and enjoy additional benefits like a free UAE chauffeur service for certain ticket types [15][16] Iberia and WestJet Route Expansion - Iberia will commence flights to Toronto using the Airbus A321XLR starting June 13, 2026, competing with Air Canada [7][8] - WestJet is launching two new nonstop routes from Edmonton and Winnipeg to Reykjavik, Iceland, starting in June 2026 [11][12] U.S.-Mexico Slot Dispute - The Mexican government has decided to return some airport slots to U.S. airlines, a response to previous restrictions imposed by the U.S. [18][19] Arajet's U.S. Expansion - Arajet has completed its initial U.S. route network with six destinations and plans to connect 16 to 18 U.S. airports in the next few years, including Los Angeles and Houston [20][21]