Air Astana Gets Playful with Travel Tales Kids Program

Air Astana has rolled out Travel Tales, a character driven kids’ amenity program that leans heavily into the collectability factor.

The premise is simple but clever: three lovable characters, Mishka, Tana, and Zak, invite children to explore the world with them, each bringing their own personality to the journey.

A variety of colorful bags, pouches, and cases with animal and cartoon bear designs are displayed on white platforms against a blue sky with cloudsโ€”perfect for carrying snacks.

Mishka’s got the nose for discovering delicious treats, Tana’s the environmental conscience of the group, and Zak’s boundless energy keeps things moving.

Together, they’re positioned as global adventurers who thrive on exploring new cultures and natural wonders while staying rooted in their home country.

Three Age Brackets, Three Different Vibes

What sets Travel Tales apart is the deliberate age segmentation. There are three kit rotations total, with distinct inbound and outbound designs for each age group.

Each kit isn’t just a smaller or larger version of the same thing, the design language shifts depending on who’s opening it.

For the littlest passengers (ages 3โ€“6), expect adorable, fluffy designs that lean fully into plush aesthetics.

Their kits include a backpack, pencil case, lunch-style bag, plus activities and games to keep them occupied.

The 7โ€“11 age set gets a geometric makeover. The same characters get a contemporary redesign that feels more grown-up.

Along with a crossbody bag and satchel, they’re getting a tech pouch, travel wallet, fluffy keyring, luggage strap, and a phone stand.

Teens aged 12โ€“15 receive graphic designs featuring the trio’s signature colours and patterns.

A colorful Air Astana travel amenity kit with toiletries, notebook, pen, and cards is displayed on white blocks against a sky background, reminiscent of the thoughtful touches found

Their kits include a hanging washbag, zip pouch, phone lanyard, luggage strap, waist bag, phone stand, and a puzzle.

Built with Sustainability in Mind

The entire program is constructed from recycled RPET and cotton canvas materials, with all paper items designed to be recyclable.

But the real positioning is the “keepsake value”, every item is meant to be enjoyed during the flight and then treasured at home.

It’s not disposable; it’s supposed to have a second life.

On the Ground

Travel Tales launched in September 2025 across Air Astana’s international flights on routes exceeding 3 hours.

Design firm Buzz developed the program and represents a shift toward more narrative driven, character focused family amenities in the airline space.

Images courtesy of Buzz Products.

flydubai Transitions from Buy-on-Board to Complimentary Meals

Dubai-based carrier flydubai is moving away from buy-on-board to include complimentary meals and inflight entertainment across all fares starting November 2025.

The change applies to the airline’s entire network of more than 135 destinations.

The included meal service draws on regional menus featuring authentic local dishes from African, European, Indian, Middle Eastern, Russian, and Southeast Asian cuisines.

While specific dish compositions weren’t detailed in the announcement, the carrier noted that food and beverage offerings will vary depending on flight route and duration, with passengers receiving meals, light snacks and beverages throughout their journey.

Two airline passengers sit side by side in economy class, smiling and enjoying their meals, while reading about Air France introducing Yann Couvreur Business Class desserts on their fold-down tray tables during the flight.

The onboard menu incorporates what flydubai describes as authentic flavours inspired by the destinations it serves.

On the entertainment front, passengers will have access to a multi-language system offering more than 1,000 films from Hollywood, Bollywood, Arabic and international studios.

The platform also includes TV shows from HBO Max, BBC Kids and Cartoon Network, plus interactive games, E-magazines, more than 700 music albums, podcast episodes, travel guides and real-time flight information.

This service enhancement comes as flydubai continues to expand its fleet, having already added 9 new aircraft this year to reach 95 Boeing 737s, with 3 more expected before year-end.

The airline has been retrofitting its Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 fleet with lie-flat Business Class seats and upgraded Economy Class seats. Looking ahead, Boeing 787 Dreamliners will join the fleet from 2027.

Images courtesy of Fly Dubai.