Skydiving is widely regarded as one of the most exciting adventure activities in the world. It gives travellers the rare opportunity to experience the feeling of flying while enjoying spectacular landscapes from the sky.

For many people, it is the closest experience to soaring like a bird. Today, skydiving has become a popular attraction in many countries, attracting adventure lovers who want to combine travel with adrenaline-filled experiences.

Before taking part in a skydiving jump, participants usually receive a short safety briefing and training session from certified instructors. Most first-time visitors perform a tandem jump, where they are securely attached to a professional skydiver who controls the jump and parachute landing.

Safety equipment, modern parachute systems, and strict international safety standards make skydiving a controlled and well-regulated adventure sport.

Below are some of the world’s most popular skydiving destinations, along with approximate costs and the best seasons to visit.

Mount Everest, Nepal

Nepal offers one of the most extraordinary skydiving experiences in the world, set in the heart of the Himalayas. Participants can jump from around 23,000 feet above the ground, descending toward landing zones such as Ama Dablam Base Camp at about 15,000 feet above sea level or Syangboche Airport at 12,340 feet.

Skydiving near Mount Everest is considered one of the highest commercial skydives available globally. The aerial view of snow-covered peaks and deep valleys makes this destination particularly unique.

• Estimated cost: Around 290 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: May to August

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Palm Jumeirah in Dubai is one of the most famous skydiving locations in the world. Jumpers enjoy incredible aerial views of the palm-shaped artificial island, the Persian Gulf, the surrounding desert landscape, and Dubai’s iconic skyline.

Because of its global popularity, skydiving slots here are often booked weeks in advance, especially during the peak tourism season.

• Estimated cost: Around 530 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: October to March

Interlaken, Switzerland

For travellers who prefer alpine scenery, Interlaken offers spectacular views of snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and pristine lakes. Skydivers usually jump from around 15,000 feet above sea level.

During the descent, participants can see Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the majestic peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The combination of lakes and mountains makes Interlaken one of Europe’s most scenic skydiving spots.

• Estimated cost: Around 420 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: June to September

North Wollongong Beach, Australia

Located about one hour south of Sydney, North Wollongong Beach is considered one of the best skydiving drop zones in Australia. From around 14,000 feet, jumpers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline.

During certain seasons, skydivers may even spot whales or dolphins swimming in the ocean below. Both tandem jumps and solo skydives are available at this location.

• Estimated cost: Around 250 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: December to February

Snohomish, Washington, United States

Snohomish in Washington State offers dramatic views of the Pacific Northwest landscape. Skydivers can see the green islands of the San Juan archipelago as well as the snow-capped peaks of Mount Rainier and Mount Baker.

The area is known for its clear skies during the warmer months, making it an ideal destination for aerial adventure activities.

• Estimated cost: Around 230 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: May to October

Victoria Falls, Africa

Skydiving near Victoria Falls delivers a truly unforgettable experience. Participants jump from heights ranging between 6,000 and 10,000 feet, descending near one of the largest waterfalls in the world.

During the descent, skydivers may witness rainbows forming in the mist rising from the waterfall, creating a spectacular natural display.

• Estimated cost: Between 230 and 305 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: November to March

Denarau Island, Fiji

Denarau Island in Fiji offers a tropical skydiving experience above turquoise waters and coral reefs. The aerial views of the Pacific Ocean, small islands, and lush greenery create a peaceful yet thrilling adventure.

Many travellers combine skydiving here with island hopping, snorkeling, and other water activities.

• Estimated cost: Around 250 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: November to April

Santa Barbara, California, United States

Santa Barbara provides skydivers with stunning views of the California coastline and the Pacific Ocean. It is a popular destination for beginners because professional instructors provide extensive guidance and safety support.

Participants can jump from heights of up to 18,000 feet, making it one of the higher commercial skydiving experiences in North America.

• Estimated cost: Around 200 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: May to October

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is often referred to as the adventure capital of the world. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and dramatic landscapes, the town offers some of the most scenic skydiving experiences available.

Visitors can enjoy skydiving in both summer and winter seasons, making it a year-round adventure destination.

• Estimated cost: Around 380 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: December to February (summer) or June to July (winter)

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and scenic surroundings. Skydiving here allows travellers to enjoy views of forests, rivers, and charming landscapes.

The activity is available throughout the year depending on weather conditions.

• Estimated cost: Around 200 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: Available year-round

Mauritius

Mauritius is one of the most beautiful island destinations in the Indian Ocean. Skydiving here offers stunning aerial views of turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches.

The island’s natural beauty makes it an attractive destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

• Estimated cost: Around 380 US dollars per person
• Best time to visit: July to October

Skydiving continues to grow in popularity as more travellers seek unique and memorable experiences during their trips abroad. With professional training, strict safety measures, and breathtaking landscapes, these destinations provide unforgettable opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.

Qatar Airways has cautioned passengers that refund processing times may be extended due to ongoing operational pressures, while emphasizing that teams are actively working to handle requests as efficiently as possible.

The airline confirmed that travelers holding confirmed bookings with departure dates between February 28 and April 30, 2026, can opt either to request a full refund or modify their travel dates without penalty.

According to the carrier, refunds returned to the original method of payment could take as long as 28 working days to complete. Passengers are advised to monitor their email for updates after submitting a request, as this will provide the latest status of their application.

Qatar Airways noted that reimbursement amounts will reflect the unused portion of the ticket. Any additional services purchased, such as seat selection, will be processed and refunded separately.

Customers looking for further information or support with their bookings are encouraged to consult the airline’s official travel updates portal for the most recent guidance.

Source: Zawya

India is set to abolish temporary limits on domestic airfares from Monday, according to a government directive reviewed by Reuters, as the aviation sector shows signs of recovery and carriers face mounting cost pressures.

The fare restrictions were introduced in December after widespread flight cancellations by leading airline IndiGo led to a spike in ticket prices across the market. The government intervened to stabilise fares during a period of reduced capacity.

In its latest order, the civil aviation ministry said operating conditions have improved, pointing to restored flight capacity and a return to more stable operations. The directive, dated Friday and examined by Reuters on Saturday, has not been officially released. Officials from the ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Airlines had called for the removal of the caps, saying the controls were contributing to substantial revenue losses while operating expenses continued to rise. Higher jet fuel prices, partly driven by the conflict involving Iran, have added to the financial strain.

Although airlines have not disclosed specific loss figures, analysts at HSBC estimate that a $1 per barrel increase in fuel prices could raise IndiGo’s annual fuel costs by roughly 3 billion rupees.

Under the temporary rules, fares for flights up to 500 kilometres were capped at 7,500 rupees ($80.07), while routes between 1,000 and 1,500 kilometres—including New Delhi to Mumbai—had a maximum fare of 15,000 rupees.

Despite lifting the caps, the government has directed airlines to keep ticket prices fair and transparent, ensuring they reflect market conditions without harming passenger interests.

Source: Khaleej Times

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has announced plans to begin non-stop services between Singapore and Riyadh from June 2026, marking a significant step in its Middle East network expansion. The airline intends to operate the route four times a week using its Airbus A350-900 medium-haul aircraft.

The aircraft will be configured with 303 seats, including 40 in Business Class and 263 in Economy Class, offering passengers a two-cabin travel option.

Pending regulatory approval, flight SQ498 will depart Singapore at 18:20 local time on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, arriving in Riyadh at 21:45. The return service, SQ499, is scheduled to leave Riyadh at 23:00 on the same days, landing in Singapore at 12:15 the following day.

From 25 October 2026, minor schedule adjustments will take effect. Departures from Singapore will shift to 17:40, arriving in Riyadh at 21:35, while return flights will depart Riyadh at 22:50 and arrive in Singapore at 11:50 the next day.

Lee Lik Hsin, Chief Commercial Officer of Singapore Airlines, said the move reflects Riyadh’s growing economic significance. He noted that the Saudi capital’s rapid development and strong business environment position it as a key destination in the region. He added that the new route could also enhance collaboration with partner airlines, providing customers with broader travel options across the Middle East.

Riyadh will become the second Saudi destination served by the SIA Group, complementing Scoot’s existing four-times weekly flights to Jeddah.

As the capital and financial hub of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh offers a mix of cultural and modern attractions. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as Diriyah and Masmak Fortress, alongside museums, high-end hotels, and diverse retail and dining experiences.

Ticket sales for the new service will be introduced gradually through Singapore Airlines’ distribution channels, subject to final approvals.

Philippine Airlines has suspended all flights between Manila and the Gulf hubs of Dubai and Doha until April 30, leaving thousands of overseas Filipinos and other travellers rushing to adjust their plans.

The flag carrier’s decision, driven by heightened security risks and airspace uncertainties in parts of the Middle East, extends an earlier series of short-term cancellations and effectively wipes out PAL’s Dubai (PR 658/659) and Doha (PR 684/685) services for the rest of April.

For affected passengers, PAL is offering a range of options. Travellers can rebook to a later date once services resume, with the airline waiving rebooking fees in line with its current advisories. Those who no longer wish to push through with their trip may opt to convert the value of their ticket into a travel credit for future use, or request a refund subject to the fare conditions.

Passengers are urged to first check if their flight falls within the suspension period using PAL’s online manage booking facility or by contacting the carrier’s customer service channels. From there, they can decide whether to secure the earliest possible rebooked flight after April 30, bank their ticket value for a later trip, or cancel altogether.

Travel agents and community groups in the Gulf are also advising Filipino workers and residents to consider alternative routings on other airlines while PAL’s Middle East operations are on hold, especially for those with urgent travel needs such as contract changes, medical emergencies or planned vacations.

With the situation in the region still fluid, Philippine Airlines has encouraged passengers to monitor its official advisories regularly, noting that any further extensions, resumptions, or special flights will be announced through its website and social media channels.

Saudia announced an increase of 20 flights connecting Riyadh and Jeddah with the Red Sea destination during the Eid Al-Fitr holiday. Carried out in coordination with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and the Red Sea destination, the move raises the total number of round-trip services on these routes to 44.

The expanded schedule is part of a broader partnership between Saudia and the STA designed to promote Saudi tourist sites and support the tourism sector’s development. Officials said the collaboration focuses on offering travelers more convenient flight options and enhancing the onboard experience.

The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s wider tourism ambitions, which include a target to welcome 150 million visitors by 2030.