Ethiopian Airlines Expands Domestic Connectivity to South-Western Ethiopia

Ethiopian will continue to invest in seamless domestic connectivity and airport expansion (IN SHORT) Ethiopian Airlines Group announces the reinstatement of thrice weekly passenger services to Dembi Dollo, South-Western Ethiopia, effective from February 26, 2024. CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew highlights the importance of the air service in fostering socio-economic development by facilitating tourism, trade, and… Read the full press release

Saudi Arabia Surpasses 100 Million Tourists: A Testament to Vision and Growth

(IN SHORT) In a remarkable feat, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates surpassing 100 million tourists, seven years ahead of schedule, a milestone recognized by the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). With over 27 million international and 79 million domestic tourists contributing to a combined spend of USD 67 billion, Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a… Read the full press release

Chicago Airports Implement Narcan Program to Combat Opioid Overdoses

Nasal spray to be used for travelers and others experiencing opioid overdoses (IN SHORT) The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) launches a new initiative to address the opioid epidemic by distributing Narcan, an overdose medication, at O’Hare and Midway International Airports. The program places Narcan inside Automated External Defibrillator (AED) cabinets across both airports’ pre-and… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways to Relocate Operations to Manohar International Airport, Enhancing Travel Experience in Goa

Qatar Airways will cease operations at Dabolim Airport (GOI) on 20 June 2024, with its last departure from Hamad International Airport (DOH) to GOI being 19 June 2024 and its last departure from GOI to DOH being 20 June 2024 The new Manohar International Airport to deliver improved passenger experience (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways announces… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Unveils Next-Gen MetaHuman Cabin Crew Sama 2.0 at ITB Berlin 2024

Qatar Airways will showcase its latest digital innovation at the world leading travel trade show, taking place from 5-7 March 2024 Qatar Airways is the world’s first airline to develop a virtual MetaHuman cabin crew The dynamic reveal will highlight Sama’s second generation capabilities powered by artificial intelligence (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways sets a new… Read the full press release

Cathay Cargo Terminal Boosts Sustainability with 50% Recycled Plastic Cover Sheets

Focusing on sustainability leadership in cargo operations (IN SHORT) Cathay Cargo Terminal in Hong Kong takes a significant step towards sustainability by adopting 50% recycled plastic cargo cover sheets for all Export Cargo shipments, surpassing its previous 30% recycled content specifications. Developed in collaboration with suppliers and rigorously tested, the new material aligns with Cathay… Read the full press release

Southwest Airlines and Omni Hotels Announce Solarbration Sweepstakes for Exclusive Eclipse Experience

Sweepstakes winners can enjoy a unique eclipse experience with air travel and hotel stays (IN SHORT) Southwest Airlines, in collaboration with Omni Hotels & Resorts, launches the Solarbration sweepstakes, offering two lucky winners and their guests a unique opportunity to witness the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Entrants can vie for a chance… Read the full press release

World of Hyatt Launches Global Promotion for Members to “Be More Rewarded”

The latest promotion encourages members to prioritize wellbeing while earning thousands of points on global adventures (IN SHORT) World of Hyatt has introduced a new global promotion, Bonus Journeys, inviting members to earn Bonus Points for future trips, wellbeing experiences, upgrades, or gifting to loved ones. Members can register for the offer until April 15,… Read the full press release

Felice C. Smith Appointed Vice President and Secretary of Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

(IN SHORT) The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority board of directors has unanimously approved Felice C. Smith as the new vice president and secretary, effective March 10. Smith, who joined the Authority in 2019 as associate general counsel and ethics officer, brings extensive experience in legal and ethics matters to her new role. She will report… Read the full press release

IHG Hotels & Resorts Expands Luxury Portfolio with Kimpton’s Debut in Sicily

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts announces the signing of its inaugural Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants property in Italy, marking a significant addition to its rapidly growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio. Set to open in the second half of 2025, the boutique hotel in Sicily, located in the charming town of Taormina, reflects IHG’s strategic… Read the full press release

IHG Hotels & Resorts Expands MLS Partnerships, Enhances Fan Experiences

More Choice, More Rewards and More Experiences for IHG One Rewards Members (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts strengthens its ties with Major League Soccer (MLS) by announcing new partnerships with four prominent clubs: Atlanta United, D.C. United, Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), and New York City Football Club (NYCFC), while continuing its role as… Read the full press release

Emirates Group Elevates 19 Executives, Signifying Strong Emphasis on UAE Talent and Gender Diversity

19 executives promoted, including 8 UAE nationals, demonstrating the bench strength of UAE talent and internally developed talent at the Emirates Group 6 women added to the Group’s senior executive ranks (IN SHORT) The Emirates Group announces the promotion of 19 executives, reflecting its commitment to nurturing UAE talent and fostering gender diversity within its… Read the full press release

Emirates A380 Resumes Vienna Operations, Enhancing Connectivity and Passenger Experience

(IN SHORT) The Emirates A380 returns to Vienna International Airport after nearly four years, marking a significant milestone for both Emirates and the Austrian capital. Carrying over 400 passengers, Emirates becomes the sole airline to operate the double-decker aircraft at Vienna Airport, reaffirming the strong partnership between the two entities. Elisabeth Zauner, Country Manager Emirates… Read the full press release

Avani Hotels & Resorts to Make Grand Debut in China’s Ecotourism Haven

Avani Hotels & Resorts to open two new properties in Guangdong Province in 2024 (IN SHORT) Minor Hotels, in collaboration with Funyard Minor JV Co., announces the forthcoming launch of Avani Hotels & Resorts in China with the unveiling of Avani Huajian Xinyi Guangdong Resort and Avani+ Xinyi Guangdong Resort. Situated in the picturesque Guangdong… Read the full press release

Minor Hotels Appoints Ammarawadee Cheowit as General Manager of NH Boat Lagoon Phuket Resort, Thailand’s First NH Hotel Brand in Asia

(IN SHORT) Minor Hotels announces the appointment of Ammarawadee Cheowit as the General Manager of NH Boat Lagoon Phuket Resort, marking a significant milestone as the first NH Hotel brand in Thailand and Asia. With over 13 years of hotel management experience, including leadership roles in various tourist destinations across Thailand, Amma brings a wealth… Read the full press release

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville Enhances Culinary Experience with New Executive Chef and Pastry Chef Appointments

The five-star Hotel welcomes a new Executive Chef and Pastry Chef to continue delivering world-class culinary experiences (IN SHORT) Four Seasons Hotel Nashville elevates its culinary offerings with the appointment of Chef Francesco Greco as Executive Chef and Chef Hector Llompart as Pastry Chef. With extensive international experience, Chef Greco brings his expertise to oversee… Read the full press release

ARK Holdings CEO, Azim Saju, Honored as 2023 Franchisee of the Year by IFA

Owner of various Choice Hotels’ properties across Florida was recognized at IFA’s Annual Conference (IN SHORT) Azim Saju, CEO of ARK Holdings, has been named the 2023 Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association (IFA) at their 64th Annual Convention in Phoenix, Arizona. Recognized for his exceptional leadership and contributions to the franchise… Read the full press release

Spirit Airlines Receives FAA’s Prestigious Diamond Award of Excellence for Sixth Consecutive Year

(IN SHORT) Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) has once again secured the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) highest honor for aviation maintenance technician safety, marking the sixth consecutive year of achieving the “Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence.” This recognition underscores Spirit’s unwavering commitment to safety and continuous investment in training programs aimed at ensuring the… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Group and Our Habitas Unveil Luxurious Desert Resort ‘Our Habitas Ras Abrouq’ on Qatar’s West Coast

Her Excellency Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, along with VIP guests, media, designers and artists were present at an opening ceremony to showcase the unique hospitality project Located at the edge of the UNESCO protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, famous for its lunar landscape and Richard Serra sculpture, the… Read the full press release

Cathay Cargo Expands Digital Connectivity with DB Schenker Through New API Integration and Developer Portal

Cathay Cargo also launches a portal making it easier for freight forwarder developer teams to connect with the Click & Ship booking platform (IN SHORT) Cathay Cargo announces the launch of an application programming interface (API) that grants DB Schenker access to its Click & Ship booking platform, facilitating real-time inventory checks, bookings, and confirmations…. Read the full press release

Southwest Airlines Earns Perfect Score on Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index for Ninth Consecutive Year

(IN SHORT) Southwest Airlines proudly announces its ninth consecutive perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index (CEI), highlighting the airline’s unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. Joining 545 major U.S. businesses with top marks, Southwest’s dedication to inclusivity is underscored by its comprehensive policies and practices. The CEI’s record-breaking… Read the full press release

Swissport’s Aspire Executive Lounges Partners with oneworld for New Lounge Experience at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

(IN SHORT) Swissport’s Aspire Executive Lounges, in collaboration with oneworld, has inaugurated the second alliance lounge at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, following the successful launch of the first in Korea. The lounge offers modern amenities, including ergonomic seating, meeting booths, and a botanical room, catering to travelers’ comfort and productivity. With a focus on sustainability, the… Read the full press release

Expedia Group Elevates Long-Time Veterans to Lead New Operating Divisions

Following the succession from Peter Kern to Ariane Gorin, Expedia Group taps two long-time Expedia veterans to lead newly formed operating divisions (IN SHORT) Expedia Group has appointed Alfonso Paredes as President of Private Label Solutions and Greg Schulze as President of Travel Partners and Media, establishing two new operating divisions within the company. With… Read the full press release

Singapore Aviation Industry Eyes Hydrogen Fuel for Decarbonization

(IN SHORT) The Singapore Hydrogen Cooperation Committee, comprising Airbus, Changi Airport Group, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), and Linde, is spearheading efforts to integrate hydrogen fuel into the nation’s aviation decarbonization strategy. Through a comprehensive study, the committee explores the feasibility of using liquid hydrogen to power future aircraft, emphasizing the need for infrastructure… Read the full press release

Changi Airports International Partners with Cam Ranh International for Terminal 2 Management

(IN SHORT) Changi Airports International (CAI) and Cam Ranh International Joint Stock Company (CRTC) have sealed a groundbreaking agreement at the Singapore Airshow, marking a significant milestone in Vietnam’s aviation industry. Under this partnership, CAI will leverage its global expertise to manage Cam Ranh International Airport’s Terminal 2’s non-aeronautical businesses and support international route development…. Read the full press release

Changi Airports International and Sociedade Gestora de Aeroportos Forge Strategic Partnership to Enhance Angolan Airports

(IN SHORT) On February 18, 2024, Changi Airports International (CAI) and Sociedade Gestora de Aeroportos (SGA) inked a pivotal 2-year technical partnership agreement aimed at optimizing the operational efficiency and traffic potential of 16 regional airports managed by SGA in Angola. As part of the collaboration, CAI, renowned for its airport management expertise, will assist… Read the full press release

Radisson RED Launches Its Vibrant Style in Southeast Europe with Radisson RED Belgrade

(IN SHORT) Radisson Hotel Group introduces its dynamic Radisson RED brand to Southeast Europe with the opening of Radisson RED Belgrade, a stylish lifestyle hotel located in the heart of Belgrade, Serbia. Boasting a fusion of modern design and traditional charm, the hotel offers 88 contemporary accommodation units and features vibrant communal spaces including a… Read the full press release

Days Inn Offers $10,000 Solar Sun-ternship to Capture 2024 Solar Eclipse

World’s sunniest hotel brand offers two Solar Sun-terns a shared $10,000 payday (IN SHORT) Days Inn by Wyndham is offering a unique opportunity for two adventurous friends to become Solar Sun-terns and witness the 2024 total solar eclipse from a private helicopter. The selected duo will capture their experience through photo and video content to… Read the full press release

MSC Cruises Introduces Winter 2024-25 Canary Islands Itinerary with MSC Opera

7-night itinerary with MSC Opera to some of the most sought-after winter sun destinations in the Canary Islands and Madeira – sales now open (IN SHORT) MSC Cruises has unveiled its plans to deploy the MSC Opera to the Canary Islands for the winter 2024-25 season, with bookings now available. The ship will embark on… Read the full press release

Qantas Group Unveils Airbus A220 Interiors and Expansion Plans

New interior of QantasLink A220s revealed; first flights now on sale. Order for 8 additional A321XLRs for Qantas Domestic. Acceleration of Wi-Fi on international flights from late 2024. Major digital investment to help streamline travel experience on the ground. Jetstar adding more than 400,000 seats to meet strong demand for low fare leisure travel[1]. New… Read the full press release