KUWAIT CITY — Kuwait International Airport is open today, with commercial flights continuing their phased recovery after an eight-week suspension triggered by regional security tensions and drone strikes that damaged parts of the facility.

The airport reopened its airspace on April 23, 2026, with commercial passenger flights resuming April 26 from Terminals 4 and 5, according to the state-run news agency Kuna and the General Civil Aviation Authority. The closure began February 28 amid regional developments and came after the airport was targeted by multiple Iranian drones and missiles.

Kuwait Airways announced May 9 a gradual restoration of services from Terminal 4, with plans to resume flights to 29 destinations as part of a structured, phased recovery plan. Jazeera Airways restarted full operations from Terminal 5 on May 3, serving 27 destinations after temporarily relocating to hubs in Saudi Arabia and Egypt during the shutdown.

The airline said the rollout will be carried out in stages and in close coordination with national authorities. “We are working to gradually raise flights from Kuwait International Airport, in accordance with a phased operational plan, taken into consideration security requirements and continuous coordination with relevant authorities,” Kuwait Airways said in a statement.

This marks a significant step following an eight-week suspension of commercial air services to and from Kuwait International Airport, which came after the airport was targeted by multiple Iranian drones and missiles.

Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al Sabah, Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority, said the move was coordinated with relevant domestic and international authorities to ensure operations resume in line with the highest safety and security standards. He added that the reopening forms part of a carefully planned, gradual approach to restoring air traffic, with full operations expected to resume in due course.

Authorities said damage assessments had been completed following what they described as an Iranian attack and actions by affiliated armed groups, with technical teams undertaking maintenance and repairs to restore operational readiness. Initial operations were limited to selected destinations based on operational priorities, with each phase subject to ongoing evaluation before broader expansion.

Kuwait Airways began phased services from Terminal 4, initially serving select destinations and expanding to roughly 29 routes by mid-May. Jazeera Airways operates 27 destinations from Terminal 5, according to travel industry tracking data.

The airport has not yet returned to pre-crisis capacity. Officials describe the current phase as a controlled ramp-up that prioritizes safety over speed, emphasizing rigorous protocols before expanding operations further.

The closure severely disrupted Kuwait’s connectivity during the peak spring travel period. More than 200,000 passengers were affected during the suspension, with many travelers rerouted through Dubai, Doha and Riyadh while Kuwait Airways operated a temporary dual-hub model from bases in other Gulf states.

Terminal 1 sustained damage during the drone strikes and has remained closed for repairs with no official reopening timeline announced. Technical teams have completed essential repairs on runways, fuel systems and security infrastructure, though full restoration depends on ongoing assessments.

Travelers currently face operational challenges. Many report delays and cancellations as airlines work through compressed schedules that strain crew rotations and ground handling. Foreign carriers are operating cautiously, with some routes rerouted or scaled back during the recovery period.

Passengers are advised to check flight status frequently and arrive early at the airport. Check-in processes have been streamlined for security reasons, contributing to longer processing times for travelers.

The economic impact of the closure has been significant. Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways reported revenue losses during the suspension, with stranded passengers and disrupted supply chains affecting regional connectivity. Businesses reliant on air cargo and tourism also suffered during the shutdown.

Enhanced security measures remain in place at both active terminals, including stricter inspections and coordination with the Ministry of Interior. Travel experts recommend verifying terminal assignments, as most international flights currently use Terminal 4 or Terminal 5.

Kuwait Airways added routes incrementally in recent weeks, including new services to Cairo. Jazeera Airways is focused on restoring its low-cost network, with passenger numbers rising steadily as confidence returns.

International carriers including Emirates have resumed limited services, though many long-haul routes remain curtailed. Emirates resumed Kuwait flights on May 1 with up to five daily services by late May.

The long-term modernization project continues despite the disruption. Kuwait’s new Terminal 2, designed by Foster + Partners and built by Limak İnşaat, remains on track for a late 2026 opening. The facility will boost capacity to 27 million passengers annually once operational.

Looking ahead, airport authorities aim for progressive expansion in the coming weeks and months. Officials hope to increase daily flight numbers and operating hours as confidence in infrastructure stability grows.

As the summer travel season approaches, demand for flights through Kuwait is expected to surge. Authorities and airlines have pledged continued coordination to minimize disruptions while maintaining the highest safety standards.

The skies above Kuwait are once again seeing increasing activity, symbolizing a cautious but determined return to connectivity after a difficult two-month period. Officials and airlines alike are committed to restoring full service as safely and quickly as conditions allow.

BEERWAH, Australia — Bindi Irwin is recovering and focusing on staying close to home at Australia Zoo as she manages ongoing endometriosis, her family reported in early May 2026.

Terri Irwin and Robert Irwin shared the update while attending the third annual Steve Irwin Gala in Las Vegas on May 2. Bindi, 27, missed the event honoring her late father for the second consecutive year.

“Bindi is doing so much better now,” Terri Irwin, 61, told E! News in a joint interview with Robert, 22. “So, things like a lot of travel are a bit challenging for her at the moment and so she’ll be here next year to celebrate this wonderful night.”

Terri added that Bindi opted to stay close to home. “This year she’s just staying a little close to home. So, ironically, it’s less taxing for her to be home feeding crocodiles,” she said.

Robert noted the family dynamic, saying someone must hold down the fort at Australia Zoo. Bindi has returned to some conservation work despite the challenges.

Bindi first publicly revealed her endometriosis diagnosis in March 2023. In March 2026, she shared details of her treatment, stating she had more than 50 lesions removed over the previous three years, along with surgery for a chocolate cyst, an appendectomy and a hernia repair.

She described experiencing “indescribable, inescapable pain” and feeling trapped in her body for a decade before diagnosis. Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women worldwide.

Bindi underwent emergency surgery for a ruptured appendix in May 2025, which also contributed to her absence from last year’s gala.

The Irwin family continues operating Australia Zoo, founded by Steve Irwin. Bindi, her husband Chandler Powell and their daughter Grace Warrior, born in 2021, reside there and participate in wildlife conservation efforts.

In January 2026, Bindi shared a family photo with Grace emphasizing time at home and conservation priorities after a year of travel.

Bindi married Powell in March 2020. The couple has maintained a relatively private family life while continuing the Wildlife Warriors mission established by Steve Irwin.

The Steve Irwin Gala raises funds for Wildlife Warriors Worldwide. The 2026 Las Vegas event at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino celebrated Steve Irwin’s legacy of conservation and wildlife protection.

Terri and Robert Irwin hosted the gala and highlighted ongoing projects. Bindi made a virtual appearance or sent well wishes, according to family statements.

Bindi has used her platform to raise awareness for endometriosis. She received the Blossom Award from the Endometriosis Foundation of America in 2024 for her advocacy efforts.

The family has faced multiple health challenges. Bindi’s endometriosis journey included years of undiagnosed pain before confirmation. She has spoken about feeling weak and insecure as a teenager due to symptoms.

As of mid-May 2026, Bindi continues treatment and recovery. Travel remains limited, but she stays active with zoo operations and feeding animals.

Robert Irwin, who has gained prominence through television appearances including “Dancing with the Stars,” supports his sister publicly. The family emphasizes unity in continuing Steve Irwin’s work.

Bindi was born July 24, 1998. She began appearing on “The Crocodile Hunter” as a child and has hosted wildlife programs. Her conservation work spans education, breeding programs and habitat protection.

The Irwins operate Australia Zoo in Queensland, a major tourist attraction and conservation hub. The facility houses crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos and other species central to the family’s mission.

No new medical details on Bindi’s current treatment have been released since the March 2026 update. The family requests privacy on specific health matters while sharing progress to raise awareness.

Bindi’s story has resonated globally, inspiring discussions on women’s health and chronic pain conditions. She continues to advocate for early diagnosis and support for those affected by endometriosis.

The 2026 Steve Irwin Gala raised significant funds. Events in both Brisbane and Las Vegas support international conservation initiatives.

Bindi, Chandler and Grace prioritize family time at the zoo. Recent photos show them engaged in daily wildlife care and educational activities.

The Irwin family legacy remains strong more than 19 years after Steve Irwin’s death in 2006. Bindi, Robert and Terri carry forward his passion for wildlife and education.

Bindi’s health management includes balancing recovery with her roles as mother, conservationist and public figure. She plans to attend future galas as her condition allows.

On Wednesday, primarily across Western Australia and New South Wales, rugby league enthusiasts desperate to join the National Rugby League’s newest expansion club, the Perth Bears, finally got their opportunity to secure one of two foundation membership packages.

Fans can either purchase a $79 foundation membership package – which includes merchandise, club offers and early priority access to secure 2027 match-based memberships – or a premium foundation member “Club 2027 membership” package for $3000, headlined by a made-to-order exclusive varsity jacket and limited edition medallion, along with early priority access to secure a match-based membership.

Devices were refreshed feverishly across the country such was the demand, as the Bears, a marriage of equals between WA and the North Sydney Bears, begin final preparations ahead of their entry into the NRL from next season.

The demand led to online reports of lengthy queues – with the overall interest in both packages taking the club aback, according to Mr De Ceglie.

“We have been overwhelmed by the response and the demand,” he told Business News.

“We don’t want to talk specific numbers right now, but it’s fair to say it’s been at least triple what we expected in the first 24-hours. 

“We’re well on our way to being an absolute membership powerhouse of the NRL and the WA sporting landscape too.”

For context, the Dolphins, which entered the NRL back in 2023, had 28,594 members in 2025. 

The Dolphins have been able to leverage off the existing Redcliffe Dolphins, a traditional powerhouse of the Hostplus Cup (formerly Queensland Cup) in terms of rusted-on local supporter base, bar, gaming and on-field facilities. 

HBF Park in East Perth, the Bears’ home ground, has a rectangular sport attendance capacity of approximately 20,441.

Rationale behind $3000 pricetag explained

Predominantly on social media, there were some sections of prospective Perth Bears members who were less than impressed with the premium foundation membership price tag – with some labelling the club “out of touch” with the common fan or even holding a view that the club was dismissive of rising cost-of-living pressures impacting households.

Mr De Ceglie reiterated to Business News that the Bears were grateful for all supporters and the club anticipated leading into the launch that the premium foundation member package was only likely to attract a distinct segment of supporters.

“We anticipated only a small number of fans would choose this option and it is so far tracking very much in line with our target,” he said.

“We’re very grateful for all our supporters. 

“The premium membership pricing was benchmarked against what the Dolphins used for its similar Glasshouse Club membership when they recently launched into the NRL. 

“We also benchmarked it, taking into account inflation, with memberships like the Harbour Masters used by the Fremantle Dockers when they entered the AFL. 

“I think it’s important to remember that the Perth Bears are a non-profit club and every bit of revenue we create goes back into the club and growing the greatest game of all in Western Australia.”

Lessons from online process

While technical difficulties on the club’s website during the membership launch were not ideal, Mr De Ceglie pointed to the demand playing a role in it.

“The technical difficulties were two-fold — mainly because of the unprecedented demand and also because of some issues with our e-commerce provider,” he said.

“We keep planning for the extra demand, but it’s always so much more than even we have expected. 

“I think the lesson for the Perth Bears, and the greater sporting world, is that demand for NRL in Western Australia so much bigger than any of us anticipated. 

“We are also grateful for the understanding and support from our fans, as well as their patience. 

“We’re working with the e-commerce provider to ensure anyone impacted by faults has their issue resolved as soon as possible. 

“It says a lot about the passion of the Bears fans that everyone has been really supportive.”

CEO says Bears could one day rival Broncos’ commercial success  

The Bears have already announced their inaugural jerseys will be unveiled prior to the Melbourne Storm-Manly Sea Eagles match (1pm) at HBF Park on August 8, with those inside the stadium having the first opportunity to buy one on-site.

Mr De Ceglie said the Bears were focused on further expanding their commercial pipeline in the lead up to their 2027 debut – a commercial rise which he says could one day rival one of Australia’s wealthiest sporting brands.

“The Perth Bears continue to break commercial records across the board for not just the NRL but the national sporting landscape,” he said.

“I believe our jersey, for example, will be the most commercially successful for any sporting club in Australia. 

“We want to enter the NRL in 2027 as both an economic and membership powerhouse. 

“I truly believe the Perth Bears can rival the Brisbane Broncos as the most commercially successful team in the NRL.”

Formed in 1982, Brisbane are the only NRL club on the ASX, having listed on May 12 1989.

The Broncos, which have a market cap of $159.8 million, posted a net profit of $7.77 million in 2025, up from $5.71 million.

Its operating revenue rose by 20.8 per cent to $98.3 million, which included a 16.8 per cent uptick in sponsorship dollars.

As of December 31 2025, the Broncos’ total equity reached $53.5 million. 

The six months performance has led to a modest upgrade in full year outlook

Accounting and payroll software giant Sage has posted double-digit revenue and profit growth in what its CEO has labelled an excellent first half.

The Tyneside-based FTSE100 firm indicated that cloud products had driven much of the growth, with customers also making increased use of its AI systems. In unaudited results for the six months to the end of March, Sage reported 10% growth in statutory revenue to £1.36bn and a 15% leap in statutory operating profit to £293m, while annualised recurring revenue – a key measure for the group – grew 11% to £2.72bn and underlying operating profit was up 14% to £326m.

All of Sage’s markets delivered growth, led by North America with 14% revenue growth, where customers in the not-for-profit, construction, real estate and financial services sectors contributed and more adopted AI-powered functionality. Meanwhile in the UK, Ireland and Africa reported 10% growth and revenue was up 7% in Europe.

The performance prompted a modest rise in outlook with full-year total organic revenue growth expected to be above 9%.

Bosses said they had made progress in embedding AI into customer work with the launch of new agents and the expansion of its flagship digital assistant, Copilot. That has meant integrating Copilot into existing products such as Sage Intacct and Sage Sales Management. The firm has also been making more use of AI in its own work, with benefits across its engineering, customer support, sales and marketing functions.

Steve Hare, chief executive officer, said: “Sage delivered an excellent first-half performance, with double-digit revenue growth, further margin expansion and strong cash flows. This reflects the focused execution of our strategy and a deep understanding of our customers’ needs.

“Small and mid-sized businesses trust Sage to run their mission-critical finance, payroll and HR workflows, where accuracy and compliance are non-negotiable. Our intelligent agents are already helping finance teams accelerate cash flows, close the books faster, plan more effectively and turn insight into action, without compromising control or accountability.

“By embedding AI directly into our customers’ day-to-day work, we are making our solutions more valuable, reinforcing our competitive advantages, and driving efficient, sustainable growth. With our trusted scalable platform, growing agent portfolio and strong momentum supported by investment across the business, I am confident in Sage’s ability to deliver growth and long term value for all stakeholders.”