Shell Announces Discovery of New Gas-Bearing Reservoir in Egypt

An offshore gas platform. (Reuters)
An offshore gas platform. (Reuters)
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Shell Announces Discovery of New Gas-Bearing Reservoir in Egypt

An offshore gas platform. (Reuters)
An offshore gas platform. (Reuters)

Shell Egypt announced it discovered a new gas-bearing reservoir in the Northeast el-Amriya block in Egypt’s Mediterranean Sea.

The company said in a press release that it has “safely and successfully completed the drilling of the first well in its three-well exploration campaign, Mina West, located in the Northeast el-Amriya block, in the Mediterranean Sea.”

Shell indicated that drilling activities occurred at a water depth of around 250 meters below sea level in the offshore Nile Delta, with primary data confirming the presence of a gas-bearing reservoir.

“Further evaluation of the acquired data is required to determine the size and recoverable potential of the discovery.”

Vice President and Country Chair of Shell Egypt Khaled Kacem said the discovery is an important step forward for Shell Egypt, “bolstering our growth aspirations and ongoing commitment as a critical partner in Egypt’s energy landscape.”

“Successful delivery of our current exploration campaign is part of Shell Egypt’s growth strategy. Shell, together with its partners, will continue to work towards safely and efficiently reaching the development phase of the block,” he added.

In September, Shell signed a Farm-Out Agreement (FOA) with Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC), under which KUFPEC acquired a 40 percent stake in Northeast el-Amriya block, with Shell holding the remaining 60 percent stake of the partner’s share with the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS).

Shell had contracted the Stena Drilling for Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU), Stena Forth rig, to carry out the drilling campaign.



Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
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Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)

flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline's capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.
Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer, Airbus said on its website.
The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.
"We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus," said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. "The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program."
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, "We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter."
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft will support flynas' ambitious growth plans. The airline anticipates significant operational efficiency gains by combining the new widebody aircraft with its existing A320neo fleet. The A330-900 offers increased capacity and range at unrivaled seat costs, ensuring flynas can compete effectively in the growing regional market, a key focus area for the airline.
The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, featuring new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations resulting in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo is capable of flying 8,150 nm / 15,094 km non-stop, providing ultimate comfort with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.