Shilpa Ranganathan Returns to Expedia Group as Chief Product Officer to Lead Innovation

(IN SHORT) Expedia Group has appointed Shilpa Ranganathan as Chief Product Officer, marking her return to the company. With over 25 years of experience in customer-centric product development, including leadership roles at Microsoft, Ranganathan will oversee Expedia’s product and design teams to enhance traveler experiences. She will join the Travel Leadership Team in January, reporting… Read the full press release

Japan Airlines (JAL) and JAL Engineering Win “IT Award” for Pioneering Aircraft Maintenance Digital Transformation

(IN SHORT) Japan Airlines (JAL) and JAL Engineering have won the “IT Award (Open Innovation Area)” at the 42nd IT Award, marking their third consecutive win. The award recognizes JAL’s digital transformation efforts in aircraft maintenance, particularly through their “Zero Zero 100” initiative, which focuses on predicting and preventing failures before they occur. Key innovations… Read the full press release

Cathay Cargo Terminal Leads the Way in AI-Driven Safety and Security Innovation

Pioneering new standards in cargo terminal safety and security (IN SHORT) Cathay Cargo Terminal in Hong Kong has become the first air cargo terminal in the region to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) with its CCTV system to enhance safety and security. In partnership with Intenseye, the terminal uses AI to monitor safety hazards in real-time,… Read the full press release

Cathay Hackathon 2024 Expands to Shenzhen, Showcasing Young Innovators in Aviation Technology

Cathay’s flagship tech event provides a unique platform for young innovators to showcase their creative ideas and solutions to enhance the aviation industry in Hong Kong and beyond (IN SHORT) The seventh annual Cathay Hackathon concluded in Shenzhen, marking its first expansion into the Greater Bay Area. The event attracted over 1,500 applicants from Hong… Read the full press release

Sierra Leone Hosts Women in Tourism Congress, Empowering African Women Through Education and Innovation

(IN SHORT) The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of Sierra Leone, in partnership with UN Tourism, hosted the Women in Tourism Regional Congress, gathering over 500 participants from across Africa to discuss gender-responsive policies, access to education, finance, and innovation in the tourism sector. The Congress featured panels, workshops, and cultural sessions, with leaders… Read the full press release

UN Tourism Awards Colombian Community Tourism Innovators, Celebrating Inclusivity and Sustainable Growth

(IN SHORT) UN Tourism has recognized five innovative community tourism projects in Colombia as part of the “Innovation Challenge: Community Tourism: Colombia,” held during its 122nd Executive Council session in Cartagena. The winning initiatives, selected across various categories, spotlight efforts in gamified tourism, conservation, cultural journeys, social empowerment, and sustainable travel. These projects reflect UN… Read the full press release

ANA HOLDINGS Invests in Sakana AI to Enhance Generative AI Capabilities for Operational Transformation

(IN SHORT) ANA HOLDINGS INC., through its venture capital fund ANA Future Frontier Fund L.P., has invested in Sakana AI, a Tokyo-based AI research company focused on nature-inspired foundational AI models. Sakana AI applies principles like evolution and collective intelligence to develop advanced, efficient generative AI technologies. ANA aims to collaborate with Sakana AI to… Read the full press release

PATA Renews Partnership with OAG to Enhance Aviation Data Accessibility for Members

(IN SHORT) The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has renewed its partnership with OAG, designating the company as its Preferred Partner and exclusive aviation data provider for the next three years. PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid emphasized the importance of this collaboration, which will provide members with vital aviation data to monitor flight capacity and… Read the full press release

UN Tourism and Qatar Tourism Celebrate Excellence and Innovation at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2024

(IN SHORT) On October 30, 2024, UN Tourism and Qatar Tourism celebrated the second annual Qatar Tourism Awards, recognizing innovation and excellence in the tourism sector. The event received approximately 1,200 applications, showcasing the rapid growth of Qatar’s tourism industry, which has seen a 147% increase in international arrivals from 2019 to 2024. The awards… Read the full press release

dnata Celebrates Decade as ‘Ground Handler of the Year’ with Continued Innovation and Sustainability

(IN SHORT) For the tenth consecutive year, dnata has been awarded ‘Ground Handler of the Year’ at the 2024 Air Cargo News Awards, recognizing its excellence in cargo services. The accolade highlights dnata’s dedication to safety, quality, and innovation, as seen in recent initiatives such as integrating drones and AI-powered solutions in its global operations,… Read the full press release

Aviation Future Week Drives Dialogue on Innovation and Emerging Technologies in the Aviation Sector

Event provided a stage for leaders from across the aviation and aerospace spectrum to engage in critical conversations around a range of industry developments (IN SHORT) Aviation Future Week (AFW), hosted by Emirates Airline and the Museum of the Future in Dubai, concluded after three days of discussions centered on the future of aviation and… Read the full press release

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 press release

Cai Feng Lou’s ’10 Bites of 2024′: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation in Chinese Fine Dining

A trendy, fine dining experience catering to the latest in taste and consumer needs (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts’ upscale dining brand, Cai Feng Lou, introduces “10 Bites of Cai Feng Lou 2024”, a new menu featuring ten signature dishes blending traditional Cantonese flavors with regional influences. Launching nationwide on July 15th, these dishes… Read the full press release

SFO Celebrates Grand Opening of Harvey Milk Terminal 1, Setting New Standards in Airport Innovation and Inclusivity

New ticket counters, security checkpoint, post-security connector to all terminals (IN SHORT) San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has unveiled the final phase of Harvey Milk Terminal 1, named after the pioneering LGBTQ+ leader. This milestone introduces advanced features like Automated Bag Drop and Screening Lanes, new gates, and enhanced dining options. Recognized for its sustainability… Read the full press release

Amadeus Appoints Mark Cullen as Chief Commercial Officer of Cytric, Pioneering Innovation in Corporate Travel

(IN SHORT) Amadeus welcomes Mark Cullen as the Chief Commercial Officer of Cytric, its end-to-end corporate travel and expense solution. Mark, based in Boston, United States, will lead all commercial activities, focusing on expanding Cytric Solutions globally. The appointment highlights Amadeus’ commitment to the corporate travel sector, particularly in collaboration with Microsoft to integrate the… Read the full press release

Accor Spearheads Hospitality Innovation and Sustainability with Diverse Brand Portfolio

LED BY ITS 45+ DIVERSE AND ICONIC HOSPITALITY BRANDS ACCOR SEEKS TO DRIVE THE INDUSTRY FORWARD WITH AN OPEN MIND FOR INFINITE POSSIBILITIES AND A HEART-CENTRED APPROACH TO DOING WHAT IS BEST FOR PEOPLE AND THE PLANET (IN SHORT) Accor, a leading hospitality group, is poised to revolutionize the industry with its diverse portfolio of… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Unveils Ambitious Plans for Innovative Growth, Including New First Class Cabin

A new era of innovative growth including exciting product reveals are in the pipeline In a major development, the GCEO said a new First Class cabin will be introduced by Qatar Airways His strategy for Qatar’s national carrier includes pioneering innovation in digital technologies, products, fleet growth and employee engagement as Qatar Airways continues its… Read the full press release

IATA Launches Digitalization Leadership Charter to Drive Air Cargo Industry Innovation

(IN SHORT) The International Air Transport Association (IATA) introduces the Digitalization Leadership Charter during the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Hong Kong, with leading air cargo entities including Cathay Cargo, CHAMP Cargosystems, and Lufthansa Cargo as inaugural signatories. Aimed at accelerating the industry’s digital transformation, the charter outlines five guiding principles developed in consultation with… Read the full press release

IAPCO’s 54th Annual Meeting in Ljubljana: Fostering Innovation and Sustainability in the Meetings Industry

(IN SHORT) From February 28th to March 2nd, 2024, the International Association of Professional Congress Organizers (IAPCO) is holding its 54th annual meeting and general assembly in Ljubljana, Slovenia. With around 160 directors and owners of congress agencies attending from across the globe, the event, organized by Cankarjev dom with support from local and national… Read the full press release

Emirates Takes Flight at ITB Berlin: Showcasing Innovation and Commitment to Europe

The airline’s highly popular Premium Economy seat, and Game-changer First Class suite will debut for the first time in Germany Emirates reinforces its longstanding commitment to Europe, aiming to strengthen and forge new strategic partnerships across the regional travel and aviation ecosystem    The airline will showcase its latest sustainability initiatives to visitors and partners… Read the full press release

Emirates Flight Catering Completes Acquisition of Bustanica, World’s Largest Indoor Vertical Farm

The acquisition makes Bustanica a 100% UAE-owned agriculture venture (IN SHORT) Emirates Flight Catering has finalized the acquisition of Emirates Bustanica, formerly known as Emirates Crop One, solidifying its status as the world’s largest indoor vertical farm. This strategic move reinforces the UAE’s commitment to bolstering food security and agricultural capabilities. Situated near Dubai World… Read the full press release

UNWTO Startup Competition Seeks Innovators Shaping the Future of Hospitality and Business Models

(IN SHORT) The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is collaborating with Infecar (Feria de Gran Canaria) to identify entrepreneurs and startups at the forefront of reshaping the hotel industry and new business models. The UNWTO Startup Competition for Tourism Technologies and Solutions in Hotels and New Business Models is open to global startups and entrepreneurs, focusing… Read the full press release

Minor Hotels’ Outstanding Commitment to Conservation and Innovation Recognized at Prestigious Hospitality Awards

(IN SHORT) The article highlights Minor Hotels’ exceptional achievements in the hospitality industry, particularly in the areas of conservation, innovation, and its commitment to people. The company has received recognition and awards for its efforts to promote sustainable tourism, protect the environment, and provide outstanding guest experiences. These accolades reflect Minor Hotels’ dedication to making… Read the full press release

Auckland Airport Joins Heart Aerospace Advisory Board to Drive Sustainable Aircraft Innovation

(IN SHORT) Auckland Airport has announced its partnership with Swedish electric airplane manufacturer Heart Aerospace by joining the company’s advisory board. The collaboration aims to advance innovation in sustainable aircraft, particularly focusing on Heart Aerospace’s ES-30, a 30-seat electric hybrid aircraft designed for short journeys with a rapid 30-minute recharge time. Auckland Airport will provide… Read the full press release

7th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism in La Rioja, Spain to Explore Sustainable Future and Innovation in Wine Tourism

(IN SHORT) The 7th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism, set to take place in La Rioja, Spain, from November 22-24, 2023, will focus on the future of sustainable wine tourism. Co-organized by UNWTO, the Government of La Rioja, and the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain, the conference will address key themes… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Unveils the Enchanting ‘Qatar Airways Garden’ at Expo 2023 Doha, Blending Nature, Innovation, and Hospitality

The “Qatar Airways Garden” set to captivate audiences, reflecting the grandeur of Versailles Gardens with a contemporary Qatari touch Doha, Qatar, 2023-Oct-11 — /Travel PR News/ — As the Official Airline and Strategic Partner of Expo 2023 Doha, Qatar Airways proudly invites visitors to the “Qatar Airways Garden”. The mesmerising attraction, part of Expo 2023… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Unveils Expo 2023 Doha Aircraft, Showcasing Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

A330-300 Expo 2023 Doha aircraft touches down in Doha Qatar Airways embodies commitment to sustainability and innovation with Expo-themed livery and enhanced in-flight experiences Attending the reveal were Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker; President of Ashghal, H.E. Dr. Engr. Saad Ahmed Al Mohannadi; Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport,… Read the full press release

UNWTO and Alpitour World Partner to Drive Innovation and Sustainability in Tourism

Madrid, Spain, 2023-Jul-07 — /Travel PR News/ — UNWTO will work with Alpitour World as a strategic partner to advance innovation, education and sustainability across every part of the tourism sector. Reflecting UNWTO’s focus on harnessing the power of public-private partnerships, the newly-signed Memorandum of Understanding with Alpitour World, will see the two organizations work… Read the full press release

Lufthansa Group Invests in Real-Time Flight Trajectory Technology to Drive Innovation and Sustainability

From 2024, all new Lufthansa Group Airbus A320neo/A321neo to be delivered with automated flight profile transmission technology Lufthansa Group is a pioneer for more sustainable aviation Important contribution to EU airspace modernization Cologne, Germany, 2023-Jul-06 — /Travel PR News/ — Every drop counts: An optimized flight path saves fuel and reduces CO2 emissions. With the standard… Read the full press release