SILVERSEA ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR SOUTHERNMOST HOTEL ON EARTH TO ELEVATE ANTARCTICA EXPEDITIONS

The 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams will provide travelers with a uniquely seamless journey of unparalleled comfort to explore the ‘White Continent (IN SHORT) Silversea has announced the development of a new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, the southernmost city in the world, aimed at enhancing the travel experience for guests visiting Antarctica. The… Read the full news article

Swissport Introduces Pet Lounge at Johannesburg Airport to Enhance Animal Travel Experience

(IN SHORT) Swissport International AG has launched a dedicated Pet Lounge at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport to improve the travel experience for unaccompanied pets. This new facility emphasizes animal welfare and operational excellence, offering a calm environment with amenities like water service, air conditioning, and soothing music. The lounge includes an acceptance area for… Read the full news article

UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation Launch ‘Colourful Cultures’ Initiative to Empower Rural Artisans Across Africa

(IN SHORT) UN Tourism, in partnership with the TUI Care Foundation, has launched the “Colourful Cultures” small grants initiative to support rural artisans across several African countries, including Morocco, Mozambique, and South Africa. This program invites civil society organizations and NGOs to submit proposals for projects aimed at empowering local artists, especially women and youth,… Read the full news article

Peter Cabello Holmberg Appointed Chief Information Officer of SAS to Drive Digital Transformation

(IN SHORT) SAS has appointed Peter Cabello Holmberg as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO), effective November 1, 2024. In this role, Peter will lead the airline’s digital transformation initiatives, focusing on advancing digital solutions, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. Recognized as Denmark’s CIO of the Year, he brings a wealth of experience from… Read the full news article

Alaska Airlines and UP.Labs Unveil Odysee, a Revolutionary AI-Driven Flight Scheduling Startup

Alaska Airlines and UP.Labs have introduced their first startup, Odysee, at the UP.Summit. The venture aims to solve core strategic challenges for the aviation industry through innovative solutions. Odysee is an innovative, new flight schedule optimization software platform that leverages AI and big data to optimize asset configuration for the airline industry and other logistics… Read the full news article

Qatar Airways Holidays Unveils Exclusive Travel Packages for El Clásico Legends Match

Doha to host legends match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid on 28 November 2024 Unique fan packages will give fans an all-inclusive experience with flights, hotels and match tickets (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways, in partnership with Qatar Tourism, has announced exclusive travel packages for fans to attend the Legends El Clásico match between FC… Read the full news article

Qatar Airways Launches New Non-Stop Service to Toronto, Strengthening Canadian Presence

The World’s Best Airline will operate three-weekly non-stop flights to Toronto Pearson International Airport – its 14th destination in the Americas and second gateway to Canada, from December 2024 (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways is set to launch non-stop flights to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) starting December 11, 2024, with three weekly flights. This addition marks… Read the full news article

Qatar Airways Outlines Future Vision at Annual Investors’ Meeting, Highlighting Record Profits and Commitment to Sustainability

Qatar Airways Group offered leading aviation bankers, lessors, and insurers insights into its financial performance, network and fleet expansion, competitive differentiation, sustainability, and employee engagement Under the theme “New Era of Dynamic and Sustainable Partnership”, Qatar Airways Group outlined its continued efforts to drive long-term success and excellence as it moves forward with its 2.0… Read the full news article

IHG Hotels & Resorts Commemorates 60 Years in Japan and Outlines Future Expansion Plans

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts is celebrating its 60th anniversary in Japan, a milestone marking its entry into the market with the InterContinental brand in 1964. The company highlights its successful growth through local partnerships and strategic expansion, including a significant joint venture with ANA in 2006. Currently the second-largest international hotel company in… Read the full news article

IHG Hotels & Resorts and APSN Renew Partnership to Support Inclusive Employment and Training Programs in Singapore

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has renewed its strategic partnership with APSN, a social service agency for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities, through a new three-year agreement. This partnership will continue to provide employment opportunities, on-the-job training, and internships for APSN students across IHG hotels in Singapore. The initiative supports IHG’s long-term commitment to… Read the full news article

IHG Introduces Vignette Collection to Egypt with New Luxury Hotel in Historic Port Said

With a brand promise of curating one-of-a-kind stays, the latest Vignette Collection signing strengthens IHG’s growth in the luxury and lifestyle segment across the MENA region (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the debut of its Vignette Collection brand in Egypt, following a management agreement with Maxim Hotels and Resorts Management. Set to… Read the full news article

Qantas Launches First A380 Flights to Africa, Expands Codeshare Network with Airlink

(IN SHORT) Qantas has introduced its first-ever Airbus A380 flights to Johannesburg, boosting capacity between Australia and South Africa by nearly 130,000 seats annually. The new service, operating up to six times a week, reintroduces First Class and significantly increases Premium Economy options on the route. In addition, Qantas has partnered with Johannesburg-based Airlink to… Read the full news article

Qantas Unveils ‘Australia in the Sky’ Campaign to Boost US-Australia Travel with Iconic Aussie Flair

(IN SHORT) Qantas has launched a new brand campaign, “Australia in the Sky,” in the North American market, the first in a decade, as demand for travel between the US and Australia grows. Directed by Australian filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, the campaign showcases Australian talent and highlights iconic locations such as Bondi Beach and Sydney Harbour…. Read the full news article

Qantas Freight Becomes First Operator at Western Sydney’s New 24/7 Cargo Hub

(IN SHORT) Qantas Freight has become the first freight airline to sign on with Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport’s new 24-hour Cargo Precinct. This partnership is expected to increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity by 33% and provide dedicated access to major logistics centres. Qantas’ facility will include 14,000 square metres of warehousing and support its… Read the full news article

Graduate by Hilton Debuts in Auburn with Hotel Honoring University Legacy

Graduate Auburn, AL offers 177 guest rooms, a reimagined War Eagle Supper Club, and Bo Jackson’s Beans—named for the iconic All‑American athlete (IN SHORT) Graduate by Hilton has opened its first hotel in Alabama, located near Auburn University. The 177-room hotel includes event space and two key dining options: The War Eagle Supper Club, a… Read the full news article

Emirates Outlines Vision for Future Growth at 2024 Passenger Sales Conference

Airline concludes 2024 Passenger Sales Conference, a four-day event filled with forward-thinking discussions and inspirational sessions focused on the future  (IN SHORT) Emirates recently concluded its 2024 Passenger Sales Conference, where over 850 commercial team members gathered in Dubai under the theme “Next Era – Equip, Embrace, Excel.” This four-day event was the airline’s largest… Read the full news article

Emirates Serves 170,000 Kilograms of Coffee Annually, Marking International Coffee Day

(IN SHORT) In celebration of International Coffee Day on October 1, 2024, Emirates Airlines highlights its coffee offerings, serving over 170,000 kilograms of coffee annually to passengers worldwide. The airline provides a unique blend of Arabic coffee in First Class, crafted with Arabica beans, cardamom, and saffron. Emirates serves more than 130,000 kilograms of coffee… Read the full news article

Japan Airlines Expands Free Inflight Wi-Fi and Introduces Video Streaming on Domestic Flights

Free Wi-Fi on International Flights, Video Streaming on Domestic Flights (IN SHORT) Japan Airlines (JAL) is expanding its inflight Wi-Fi services starting October 1, 2024. On international flights, free Wi-Fi will be available for all passengers, with unlimited access for First and Business Class and one hour of free access for Premium Economy and Economy… Read the full news article

IHG Hotels & Resorts Extends Partnership with APSN for Three More Years Offering Apprenticeships and Training Programs Across Singapore Hotels

Apprenticeships and training programmes across all IHG hotels in Singapore (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has renewed its strategic partnership with APSN for another three years, continuing to support individuals with mild intellectual disabilities through employment, training, and volunteering programs across its hotels in Singapore. This partnership offers full-time jobs and internships for APSN… Read the full news article

IHG Celebrates 60 Years in Japan and Unveils Bold Growth Plans for the Future

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts celebrates its 60th anniversary in Japan, marking six decades since the introduction of the InterContinental brand to the Japanese market in 1964. The company reflects on its growth, highlighting the 2006 joint venture with ANA, Japan’s largest airline, which helped expand its presence in the country. IHG now operates… Read the full news article

Accor’s Mercure Brand Hits 1,000 Hotels, Expands Globally with Strong Focus on China and Japan

As a locally inspired midscale brand with a diverse global network, Mercure delivers strong brand recognition, attractive price premiums, and adaptable design approach (IN SHORT) Accor’s Mercure brand has reached the milestone of 1,000 hotels worldwide, driven by significant global expansion, particularly in China and Japan. The brand, known for its locally inspired midscale accommodations,… Read the full news article

World’s Tallest All-Hotel Tower Ciel Joins IHG’s Vignette Collection in Dubai

A landmark addition to the Dubai Marina Skyline, the 80-plus storey luxurious hotel with over 1000 keys is set to open its doors in 2025 (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has partnered with The First Group to bring Ciel, set to be the world’s tallest all-hotel tower, into its Vignette Collection. Scheduled to open… Read the full news article

IHG Expands in Türkiye with First Garner Hotel Near Istanbul International Airport

IHG’s newest midscale conversion brand continues its expansion across Southern Europe (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a franchise agreement with FRT Turizm to open the first Garner hotel in Türkiye, located near the Istanbul International Airport. This 126-room hotel, set to open in 2025, marks the expansion of IHG’s midscale Garner brand… Read the full news article

IHG and Aldar Partner to Transform Yas Island Hotels into Luxury Resort

Straylight Yas, Vignette Collection will open during Q4 2025 on Yas Island, one of the UAE’s leading tourist destinations The partnership will also see Aldar’s resort in Al Dhafra upgraded to a five-star Vignette Collection resort, offering a unique luxury desert retreat experience (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts is partnering with Aldar to transform… Read the full news article

Preferred Travel Group Develops Comprehensive Climate Action Plan to Lead Sustainability Efforts in Tourism

The climate action plan will evolve the organization’s “Believe in Travel” ideology to help make travel a force for good through climate action leadership (IN SHORT) Preferred Travel Group has announced the development of a Climate Action Plan to cut carbon emissions by half by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions before 2050. This initiative, in… Read the full news article

TFE Hotels Partners with Heritage Hotels to Expand and Refurbish New Zealand Properties

(IN SHORT) TFE Hotels has formed a strategic partnership with Heritage Hotels, one of New Zealand’s leading accommodation providers, to manage more than 500 rooms across five properties. Under this agreement, TFE Hotels will oversee properties in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown, bringing its expertise in hotel management to the Heritage Hotels portfolio. Plans are… Read the full news article

KLM Uses VR to Ease Employee Return to Work After Long Absences

(IN SHORT) KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is using virtual reality (VR) technology to help cabin crew reintegrate into work after long absences, such as illness or maternity leave. The VR program simulates a typical workday, allowing employees to experience their tasks step-by-step, helping reduce anxiety and build confidence. It also serves as a diagnostic tool,… Read the full news article

Southwest Airlines Appoints Industry Veteran Robert Fornaro to Board Amid Leadership Transition

(IN SHORT) Southwest Airlines has appointed Robert “Bob” Fornaro to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Fornaro, a seasoned airline executive with over 40 years of experience, previously served as CEO of Spirit Airlines and AirTran Holdings, where he led both through significant growth. He has also consulted for Southwest after its acquisition of AirTran…. Read the full news article

Hyatt Expands Luxury and Lifestyle Footprint with New Properties Across the Americas

Hyatt adds new properties in new markets and expands wellbeing offerings to enrich the guest experience (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation is expanding its luxury and lifestyle offerings with over 20 new properties planned across the Americas by 2025. This strategic growth aims to enhance its presence in emerging markets, catering to a rising demand… Read the full news article

Hyatt to Launch Andaz Gold Coast: First Luxury Resort of Its Kind in Australia Set for 2025

Andaz Gold Coast is set to debut in 2025 as part of The Star Gold Coast, a world-class integrated resort (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to open the Andaz Gold Coast in mid-2025, marking the brand’s debut in Australia. This new luxury resort will be part of The Star Gold Coast, a… Read the full news article