Travel Flash Report

TRAVEL FLASH - July 26, 2025

Breaking: WestJet and Kenya Airways Launch Major Interline Partnership, Expanding Africa-North America Connectivity

TOP 3 STORIES:
1. WestJet and Kenya Airways have entered a new interline agreement, enabling seamless travel between North America and 35 African destinations via major global hubs. This partnership offers single-ticket itineraries and through-checked baggage, streamlining travel for both business and leisure passengers and opening new market opportunities for travel agents and tour operators[1].
2. Wizz Air will fully restore its Israel schedule by early September, aiming to become the largest European carrier serving the country. This rapid capacity ramp-up signals renewed confidence in the Israeli market and provides travel professionals with expanded options for clients seeking direct European connections[2].
3. Neos announces new nonstop Milan–Muscat flights and seasonal service to Salalah, Oman, starting October 2025. The expansion strengthens Italy–Middle East leisure links and offers tour operators fresh product opportunities for winter sun and cultural itineraries[1].

Flash Insight:
Airline network strategies are shifting toward deeper interline and codeshare partnerships, as seen with WestJet and Kenya Airways, to capture long-haul demand and simplify global itineraries. Rapid route resumptions in markets like Israel and new Middle East leisure links reflect a rebound in both business and VFR (visiting friends and relatives) travel. Travel professionals should monitor these developments closely, as they signal increased competition, new product offerings, and evolving passenger expectations for seamless, multi-continent journeys.

Sources:
[1] https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airlines-lessors/routes-networks-latest-rolling-daily-updates-wc-july-21-2025
[2] https://www.routesonline.com/news/29/breaking-news/
[3] https://www.aeroroutes.com