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

SAS and Delta Unite: New Codeshare Agreement Expands Transatlantic Travel Options

(IN SHORT) Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) has signed a codeshare agreement with Delta Air Lines, effective September 25, 2024, enhancing connectivity between North America and Scandinavia. This partnership follows SAS’s recent membership in the SkyTeam alliance and will allow SAS customers access to over 150 North American destinations through Delta’s hubs, while Delta passengers can… Read the full news article

British Airways Aims for Carbon Leadership with Major Purchases and New Partnerships

British Airways announces new carbon removals partnerships to become the largest carbon removals purchaser in the UK and the largest airline purchaser of carbon removals* The carbon removal credits purchased by British Airways through UK-based company CUR8 and others are crucial in stimulating the carbon removals market Roughly one third of British Airways’ emissions reductions by… Read the full news article

Alaska Airlines Boosts Cargo Division with New Leadership After Hawaiian Airlines Merger

Ian Morgan named Alaska Airlines Vice President of Cargo; Jason Berry named Alaska Air Group’s Executive Vice President of Cargo The Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines combination offers a unique opportunity to pair complimentary cargo networks that can strengthen both brands globally and domestically. (IN SHORT) Alaska Airlines has appointed Ian Morgan as Vice President… Read the full news article

Mallorca Captivates U.S. East Coast Travelers with its Leadership in Responsible Tourism

Survey shows Mallorca’s commitment to sustainability is winning hearts among U.S. travelers 72% of surveyed travelers from major East Coast markets believe that Mallorca is at the forefront of responsible tourism When considering a visit to Mallorca, cultural attractions are considered most appealing (96%) and curiosity is sparked by Mallorca’s local cuisine (93%) and vineyards… Read the full news article

Emirates Strengthens Support for Rugby Across Asia with Title Sponsorship of Asia Rugby

Partnership will help scale up rugby’s impact in untapped markets and nurture a new talent pipeline and fanbase of youth (IN SHORT) Emirates has announced a multi-year partnership as the Title Sponsor of Asia Rugby, aimed at expanding the sport’s reach across 36 countries in Asia. The partnership will support key tournaments, including the Asia… Read the full news article

Global Tourism Nears Full Recovery, Reaching 96% of Pre-Pandemic Levels by Mid-2024

(IN SHORT) Global tourism has rebounded to 96% of pre-pandemic levels, with around 790 million international tourists recorded from January to July 2024. Strong demand in Europe and the reopening of Asia-Pacific markets drove the recovery, despite economic and geopolitical challenges. The Middle East saw the highest growth, exceeding 2019 figures by 26%. Tourism receipts… Read the full news article

Qantas Begins Construction on New, Expanded Broome Regional Lounge, Opening December 2024

(IN SHORT) Qantas has started developing a new and larger Broome Regional Lounge, which will open in December 2024 to accommodate increasing demand from premium travellers. The lounge’s design will reflect the natural landscape of the Kimberley region, with vibrant colours inspired by local landmarks. The existing lounge will remain open during construction, and the… Read the full news article

IHG Expands Spanish Portfolio with Four New Hotel Signings, Nears 13,000-Room Milestone

Vignette Collection, Hotel Indigo and Holiday Inn Express brands accelerate growth in the Spanish market “Significant expansion” propels IHG close to 13,000-room country milestone (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed four new hotels in Spain, bringing the company closer to its 13,000-room milestone in the country. The new properties include Vignette Collection Mallorca… Read the full news article

Emirates Celebrates Oktoberfest with Bavarian Menus and German Entertainment Onboard

(IN SHORT) Emirates is celebrating Oktoberfest by offering traditional Bavarian cuisine and entertainment on flights to and from Munich, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, and Frankfurt, as well as in its German airport lounges, from 21 September to 6 October. Passengers across all classes can enjoy a range of German-inspired dishes, such as roasted beef fillet, apple strudel,… Read the full news article

Emirates Unveils New Premium Lounge at London Stansted, Expanding UK Luxury Offerings

Customers can look forward to a refreshed and modern design, new furnishings, and ‘farm to table’ gourmet meals created in partnership with Sussex-based Full Circles Farms Dedicated lounge at London Stansted means Emirates’ premium customers at all London airports can enjoy the airline’s world-class hospitality before they board Emirates’ lounge network now extended to six airports… Read the full news article

Four Seasons Unveils Grand Horizons, a New Private Jet Experience for 2026

Debut itinerary includes four destinations new to the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience, including the brand-new Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor in Spain (IN SHORT) Four Seasons has launched a new luxury travel itinerary, Grand Horizons, as part of its Private Jet Experience, debuting in 2026. The 24-day journey spans nine global destinations, including… Read the full news article

Choice Hotels Wins Two Awards for Groundbreaking Data Discovery Training Program

(IN SHORT) Choice Hotels International has won two Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards for its Data Discovery training program. The online initiative, launched in August 2023, aims to improve data fluency among corporate staff by making data analysis more accessible. The program received recognition for Best Custom Content and Best Learning Program Supporting a… Read the full news article

Hyatt Adds Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica to Portfolio, Plans $16M Renovation

The former Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica joins the Hyatt portfolio, growing Hyatt’s brand footprint in California (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation has expanded its presence in California by adding the Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica to its portfolio, marking the brand’s sixth Hyatt Centric property in the state. Located near Santa Monica’s iconic landmarks,… Read the full news article

ibis Launches New Global Brand Campaign “Go Get It” to Celebrate 50 Years of Hospitality Excellence

ibis celebrates 50 years with “Go get it” campaign, embodying a unique mindset and empowering travelers. (IN SHORT) To celebrate its 50th anniversary, ibis has launched a new global campaign called “Go Get It,” emphasizing its long-standing mission of providing accessible and affordable travel experiences. The campaign highlights the diverse motivations behind travel and reinforces… Read the full news article

Alaska Airlines Completes Hawaiian Airlines Acquisition, Unlocking Expanded Travel Options and Loyalty Benefits

Enables guests to reach 141 destinations directly, including 29 international markets, and over 1,200 destinations globally through the oneworld Alliance and global partners. Maintains the distinct brands of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. Establishes Honolulu as its second largest hub. Beginning soon, provides HawaiianMiles members and Mileage Plan members with the ability to transfer miles between… Read the full news article

Qatar Airways Secures Long-Term Partnership as Official Airline of UEFA Champions League Until 2030

Strengthening its European presence, Qatar Airways builds on the success of previous partnerships with UEFA EURO 2020™ and UEFA EURO 2024™ The agreement also extends certain rights to Qatar Duty Free, Hamad International Airport, and Qatar Airways Privilege Club to ensure a comprehensive Qatar Airways Group partnership (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways has entered into a… Read the full news article

Emirates and Museum of the Future Unveil Inaugural Aviation Future Week to Revolutionize Air Travel and Technology

Event will focus on cutting-edge aviation technologies, operational synergies across cargo, logistics and MRO, building the workforce of the future and sustainability (IN SHORT) Emirates and the Museum of the Future will host the first-ever Aviation Future Week from 15-17 October 2024 in Dubai. The event will bring together global aviation and aerospace leaders to… Read the full news article

Four Seasons Resort Nevis Welcomes Renowned Chef Rocco DiSpirito for Thanksgiving Culinary Residency

The chef, author and television personality will bring his creative culinary expertise to Nevis’ top beachfront resort from November 26 through 29 (IN SHORT) Four Seasons Resort Nevis is hosting a special three-night culinary residency by renowned chef Rocco DiSpirito from November 26 to 29, 2024. DiSpirito, a James Beard Award-winning chef and TV personality,… Read the full news article

The Quincy Boutique Hotel Opens in Washington, D.C., Offering Upscale Accommodations with Full Kitchens

Nestled among iconic landmarks, the new 99-room hotel features full kitchens in all guest rooms (IN SHORT) Hotel Equities and Urban Investment Partners (UIP) have announced the grand opening of The Quincy, Ascend Hotel Collection, a 99-room boutique hotel located in the heart of Washington, D.C. The hotel offers full kitchens in every room, making… Read the full news article

IHG Expands in Pakistan with Holiday Inn & Suites Opening in Islamabad

Leading hotel group brings world-class hospitality to the heart of Pakistan’s capital through a new franchise agreement with MGC Developments (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a franchise agreement with MGC Developments to open Holiday Inn & Suites Islamabad DHA II, marking IHG’s expansion into Pakistan’s capital. The 150-key hotel, scheduled to open… Read the full news article

Six Senses Introduces RiverStone Estate, a Wellness-Focused Retreat in Pennsylvania

Historic American Country Treasure to Offer Wellness-Focused Resort and Branded Residences Nestled in Western Pennsylvania’s Allegheny River Valley (IN SHORT) Six Senses is launching RiverStone Estate, a wellness-focused resort and branded residences in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny River Valley. The 1,200-acre property, set to open in 2028, will offer 77 guest rooms, 40 residences, a spa, and… Read the full news article

Hilton Expands in Thailand with Two New Hilton Garden Inn Openings in Bangkok and Rayong

Global hospitality company strengthens its footprint in the country with two new Hilton Garden Inn properties opening in Bangkok and Rayong (IN SHORT) Hilton has expanded its presence in Thailand with the opening of two new Hilton Garden Inn properties, one in Bangkok Riverside and the other in Rayong. The Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Riverside… Read the full news article

British Airways Adds Third Daily Flight from Washington Dulles to London for Summer 2025

Leaders welcome announcement of record capacity coming in 2025 (IN SHORT) British Airways has announced an expansion of its service between Washington Dulles International Airport and London Heathrow. Starting March 30, 2025, the airline will increase its flights from 14 to 21 per week, offering three daily flights for the spring and summer seasons. This… Read the full news article

Marriott Unveils 2024 Masters of the Craft Champions, Debuts New Pastry Competition

Annual competition returns, showcasing talent across culinary, beverage and pastry in the U.S. and Canada (IN SHORT) Marriott International has announced the winners of its 2024 “Masters of the Craft” competition, showcasing talent across culinary, beverage, and pastry categories for the first time. Over 1,600 professionals from 181 properties in the U.S. and Canada competed,… Read the full news article

Delaware North Welcomes New Cohort to CHEFS® Program for Culinary Leadership Development

(IN SHORT) Delaware North has welcomed 15 emerging culinarians into the fourth cohort of its Culinary & Hospitality Excellence for Future Success (CHEFS)® program. The 12-month initiative prepares high-potential sous chefs for the Culinary Institute of America’s ProChef® certification, focusing on culinary, managerial, and financial skills. Executive chef mentors, trained through the program, guide participants… Read the full news article

SAS and BRA Forge Partnership to Strengthen Domestic Air Connectivity in Sweden

(IN SHORT) SAS and Braathens Regional Airways (BRA) have signed a long-term wet lease agreement to enhance domestic air connectivity across Sweden. BRA will operate aircraft on key routes for SAS, improving travel options and regional services while supporting the Copenhagen hub. The partnership strengthens Arlanda Airport as a central hub for domestic and international… Read the full news article

SAS Adds Direct Flights to Seattle, Expanding U.S. Route Network

(IN SHORT) SAS is launching five weekly direct flights from Copenhagen to Seattle starting May 21, 2025, expanding its North American network to 11 U.S. gateways. The new route will strengthen ties between Scandinavia and the Pacific Northwest, offering greater travel options and seamless connections to 39 European cities. SAS CEO Anko van der Werff… Read the full news article