Mid-east airlines remain bullish

2008-09-22

Having announced record annual profits of $1.37 billion, it's good news that Dubai-based airline, Emirates, is cutting its seat prices by 20% on flights from the UK to destinations including Australia, South Africa, the Far East and the Indian Ocean.

A spokesman said the price cuts were a result of the falling cost of a barrel of oil. The reduced fares are available until October 24 and are valid for travel until June 30, 2009.

Meanwhile Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has set its sights on flying 25 million passengers a year by 2020, according to the airline’s chief executive, James Hogan, with plans to double the number of cities served from 50 to 100. Etihad also saw its busiest summer period in its four year history, flying more than 1.6 million passengers in June, July and August.