Airbus Defence and Space has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cluster 2 at the Paris Air Show to deliver next generation digital solutions that enhance airport efficiency, security, and collaboration across Saudi Arabia. The ceremony was attended by H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Wouter Van Wersch, Executive Vice President of Airbus International, Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus in Middle East and Africa, and Mr. Saad A. Alajlan, General Manager of Commercial Operations and Business Development at Cluster 2.

The partnership will introduce advanced technologies including Agnet Turnaround by Airbus , a smart platform that enables real-time coordination of airport operations. This will empower Cluster 2 to streamline workflows, enhance on-time performance and elevate the passenger experience across its network of 22 international and domestic airports.

Through this MoU, Airbus and Cluster 2 aim to raise operational standards, improve situational awareness and drive seamless collaboration between ground staff, security teams and control rooms.

“This partnership underscores our commitment to driving digital innovation in aviation. With Agnet Turnaround, we are enabling smarter, safer and more connected airports that align with the Kingdom’s vision for the future of transportation.”, said Antoun Farra, Managing Director of Airbus Defence and Space in Saudi Arabia.

“Airports are vital gateways to the Kingdom, and digital transformation is at the heart of our strategy. Partnering with Airbus allows us to enhance safety, reduce response times and create a unified operations ecosystem across our airports.”, commented Eng. Badr Al-Dalami, Chief Executive Officer of Cluster 2.

With multiple communication and automation capabilities, Agnet Turnaround is a smart and secure solution which aims at solving daily operational challenges for aviation stakeholders and enhancing On Time Performance (OTP).

Sharjah is about to get a serious upgrade in the burger department. UK cult favourite Phat Buns is heading to the UAE, bringing its signature mix of unapologetically bold flavours, viral-worthy visuals, and stacked burgers that are engineered to impress.

Founded in Leicester in 2019, Phat Buns has become a street food success story, and co-founded by a literal aerospace engineer, there’s precision behind every layer. From the smash patty technique to the way the sauces hit the palate, Phat Buns isn’t just built different, it’s smart. As co-founder Ahtesham Moosa puts it, “With endless combinations, no two visits need to be the same”.

From well-loved menu staples like the PHAT Classic – a 4oz Aberdeen Angus beef smashed patty burger with melted cheddar cheese, or a fried chicken loaded fries, with grilled mushroom and halloumi. To one of the legends – 4oz Aberdeen Angus BBQ flavoured, 12-hour smoked pulled rib meat sandwich, topped with lettuce, tomato and cheddar.

But that’s just the beginning…

PHAT Buns’ Build-a-Burger concept puts you firmly in the driver’s seat. Fancy a double smash patty stacked with crispy halloumi and a drizzle of that iconic PHAT sauce? Sorted. Prefer spicy chicken with jalapeños and a buttery pretzel bun? You got it. From protein and cheese to sauces and toppings, you call the shots – every burger is made exactly how you want it.

While Sharjah’s will offer a different menu, tailored to local tastes, customers can still expect the same vibrant energy that Phat Buns’ fans love. Think neon lights, bold colours, and a design that gives nods to the street food culture. The experience, as well as the burgers, are ones to be photographed for social media!

The Sharjah expansion marks a new era of growth for the brand. From starting as a single location in the UK to a now growing international footprint, Phat Buns is not one to miss. It has proved fast food can be both fun and elevated, and with a rocket scientist in the kitchen, you can trust the launch will go off with a bang.

SolitAir has announced a strategic partnership with Marsh McLennan. As part of the collaboration, Marsh will provide comprehensive coverage to safeguard SolitAir’s growing fleet of Boeing aircraft, along with its other operational assets.

Commenting on the partnership, Hamdi Osman, Founder & CEO of SolitAir, said: “This collaboration is a significant step in our mission to revolutionize regional air cargo logistics and enhance our service offerings across Africa, the GCC, the Indian Subcontinent and the Stan countries. Marsh’s extensive expertise in risk management and tailored insurance solutions will help us navigate the complexities of the air cargo industry, enabling us to operate with greater confidence and efficiency. Their commitment to leveraging technology aligns perfectly with our vision of being a technology-driven company. Our partnership with Marsh reinforces SolitAir’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and operational excellence. We look forward to a successful collaboration.”

David George, Deputy Chairman, Aviation at Marsh Specialty, said: “Marsh Aviation are proud to be supporting Solitair, a dynamic new Cargo and Express delivery platform in the Gulf. Great people and a great business that will be a great success.”

SolitAir’s growing fleet currently includes four Boeing 737-800 BCF freighters. These aircraft operate out of the airline’s 220,000-square-foot cutting-edge logistics facility at DWC. Three more aircraft will join its fleet by the end of August 2025. The cargo airline planes to have a fleet 20 aircraft by 2027. The company is also laying the groundwork for integrating electric aircraft into its network by the end of the decade, in line with its sustainability vision. 

The versatile fleet is optimised for reliability, efficiency and the safe transport of specialised cargo, including temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, e-commerce shipments and hazardous materials.