UN Tourism Focuses on Resilience Building in Jamaica

(IN SHORT) During an official visit to Jamaica, UN Tourism led by Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the importance of building a resilient tourism sector. With international arrivals nearing pre-pandemic levels, the focus has shifted to protecting the industry from future shocks. The visit coincided with the second Global Tourism Resilience Day, marked by high-level meetings… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Extends Congratulations as HH The Amir Sword Festival Concludes

(IN SHORT) The HH The Amir Sword Festival, hosted by the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club at the Al Rayyan Racecourse from February 15 to 17, concluded with resounding success, showcasing Qatar’s prowess in organizing top-tier equine events. As the Official Airline Partner of the festival, Qatar Airways played a pivotal role in adding a… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Joins FIA World Endurance Championship as Title Sponsor for Qatar 1812 Km Race

Qatar is hosting the season opener of the championship from 29 February to 2 March 2024 (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways strengthens its sports sponsorship portfolio by becoming the Official Airline Partner and Title Sponsor of the Qatar Airways Qatar 1812 Km FIA World Endurance Championship, held at the Lusail International Circuit. Scheduled from February 29… Read the full press release

ANA Expands International Flight Operations from Haneda Airport Terminal 2

Beginning March 31, 2024, the number of international flights departing daily from Haneda Airport Terminal 2 will increase from the current 16 flights to 26 flights. The 26 international flights include Haneda to New York, Seoul and Bangkok. The minimum transfer time from domestic flights to international flights in Terminal 2 is 55 minutes, allowing… Read the full press release

Deutsche Hospitality Expands: IntercityHotel Bawshar Muscat Opens Its Doors

(IN SHORT) Deutsche Hospitality unveils the opening of IntercityHotel Bawshar Muscat, marking its fourth IntercityHotel property in Oman and the sixth in the Middle East. With 96 cozy guest rooms adorned in the CityNest design concept, the hotel blends modernity with Oman’s heritage, offering stunning views of Sultan Qaboos Mosque and fully equipped kitchenettes in… Read the full press release

Emirates Celebrates Milestone: Three Million Passengers on Prague-Dubai Route

(IN SHORT) Emirates Airlines has reached a significant milestone in its operations in the Czech Republic by transporting three million passengers between Prague and Dubai since 2010. The airline marked this achievement by surprising its three millionth passenger, who was traveling to Sydney via Dubai, with a complimentary upgrade to Business Class for the entire… Read the full press release

European Commission Conditionally Clears Korean Air’s Merger with Asiana Airlines

(IN SHORT) The European Commission (EC) has granted conditional approval for Korean Air’s merger with Asiana Airlines, marking a significant step forward in the consolidation of the two carriers. The approval is contingent upon Korean Air’s adherence to certain commitments aimed at addressing competition concerns, including divesting Asiana Airlines’ cargo freighter business and facilitating the… Read the full press release

Hyatt Expands Inclusive Collection with Breathless Resort & Spa in Puerto Vallarta

Breathless Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa will mark the first Breathless Resort & Spa in Puerto Vallarta, and fourth Breathless Resort & Spa branded property in Mexico, further strengthening the Inclusive Collection’s presence in the region (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation, in partnership with Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe, S.A.B. de C.V., announces plans to extend… Read the full press release

flydubai Expands Southeast Asian Reach, Inaugurates Daily Flights to Penang and Langkawi

The Dubai-based carrier touches down in Penang and Langkawi, becoming the first UAE national carrier to serve the two airports with a daily service from Dubai (IN SHORT) flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, marks its entry into Penang and Langkawi, Malaysia, on the auspicious first day of Chinese New Year, becoming the first UAE national carrier… Read the full press release

Ryanair Extends Maintenance Pact with Joramco for 10 Years

(IN SHORT) Ryanair, Europe’s premier airline, has announced a 10-year extension to its maintenance agreement with Joramco, the MRO provider based in Jordan. The deal, set to continue until the end of the decade, will entail Ryanair undertaking 10 lines of heavy maintenance at Joramco’s MRO facility in Amman, Jordan. With Ryanair’s fleet projected to… Read the full press release

Ryanair Forges New 6-Year Ground Handling Alliance with Skytanking Aviation Services

(IN SHORT) Ryanair, Europe’s leading airline, has announced a fresh ground handling partnership with Skytanking Aviation Services, set to commence in April 2024. The collaboration aims to bolster Ryanair’s operational support, particularly at key airports like Eindhoven, ensuring efficient and cost-effective ground handling services to sustain the airline’s renowned punctuality. This six-year agreement reflects Ryanair’s… Read the full press release

Boeing Announces Multi-Year Commitment to Support Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 and Foundation

Boeing to serve as Global Presenting Partner of Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 alongside Canadian company ATCO Providing funding directly to Invictus Games Foundation’s sport recovery programs for international wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans around the world (IN SHORT) Boeing declares its multi-year commitment to backing the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways and gategroup Forge Partnership to Redefine Inflight Dining Experience

With gategroup on board, the award-winning airline will set a new benchmark in inflight dining experience, quality, sustainability and healthy eating (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways and gategroup have unveiled a new collaboration aimed at revolutionizing the inflight dining experience. Through a Business Management Agreement, the two entities will work together on various aspects, including passenger… Read the full press release

Southwest Airlines Partners with Animal Planet for Pawsome Puppy Bowl Celebration

(IN SHORT) Southwest Airlines collaborated with Animal Planet to host a special Puppy Bowl-themed event at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), featuring Puppy Bowl trivia and a visit from adorable rescue puppies. Flight #2353 departed MSY for Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, where passengers continued the festivities. Southwest transported a… Read the full press release

Kimpton Virgilio: Mexico City’s Newest Boutique Hotel in Polanquito

(IN SHORT) Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants introduces its inaugural boutique hotel in Mexico City, located in the vibrant “Polanquito” area. Kimpton Virgilio, developed by ZKC, offers 48 elegantly designed rooms blending modern Mexican aesthetics with a touch of sophistication. General Manager Erick Vargas emphasizes the hotel’s commitment to providing personalized experiences, ensuring each guest feels… Read the full press release

Emirates Partners with NBA: Official Global Airline Partner and Title Sponsor of NBA Cup

NBA In-Season Tournament Renamed Emirates NBA Cup  Emirates Becomes First-Ever Referee Jersey Patch Partner of the NBA (IN SHORT) Emirates and the National Basketball Association (NBA) have forged a multiyear global marketing partnership, making Emirates the Official Global Airline Partner of the NBA and the inaugural title partner of the NBA Cup. This collaboration extends… Read the full press release

Air Canada Partners with Colleges to Support Diversity in Aviation with New Scholarships

Open to women and visible minorities, one recipient per school will receive $1,500 towards their education Strengthens airline’s commitment to supporting access for under-represented students in this highly desirable career (IN SHORT) Air Canada has announced a collaboration with seven colleges nationwide to offer financial assistance to students identifying as women or visible minorities pursuing studies as… Read the full press release

IHG Partners with Rakuten Travel for Enhanced Loyalty Program Integration

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts announces the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Rakuten Group Inc.’s travel reservation service Rakuten Travel, marking the first collaboration of its kind between IHG and a Japanese travel reservation service. The partnership aims to enhance the travel booking experience by linking IHG’s loyalty program, IHG One… Read the full press release

IHG Hotels & Resorts Forges Ahead with Ambitious Expansion Plans in Greater China

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts announces its ambitious plans for 2024, buoyed by the revival of Greater China’s cultural and tourism industry. Under the vision of “True Hospitality for Good,” IHG is poised to explore both established and emerging destinations, anticipating strong market confidence and energy consumption in the region. The company aims to… Read the full press release

Emirates and Moët Hennessy Offer Elite Skywards Members Exclusive Trip to France

The award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai has partnered with LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton) to offer elite members a chance to visit the exquisite vineyards in France. Members can now bid Miles with Skywards Exclusives to win a four-day luxurious trip to Champagne and Paris. (IN SHORT) Emirates and Moët Hennessy collaborate to… Read the full press release

Aer Lingus Surprises Dedicated Irish Rugby Fan with Trip to Marseille for 2024 Six Nations Tournament

(IN SHORT) Aer Lingus, the Official Airline partner of the IRFU, kicked off the 2024 Guinness Six Nations Tournament by creating heartwarming content featuring Mandy Watts, a third-generation Aviva Stadium IRFU hospitality worker and devoted Irish rugby fan. The video showcases Mandy’s lifelong dedication to Irish Rugby, working at Aviva Stadium since her youth, with… Read the full press release

Hyatt Partners with Local Giants for Hotel Expansion in China

Achieving win-win, the collaboration can expand Hyatt’s brand footprint in China and foster the strategic development of The Dragon Group and visibility for its boutique hotel brands (IN SHORT) Hangzhou Trade and Tourism Group (HTTG), Zhejiang Dragon Hotel Management Group (The Dragon Group), and Hyatt Hotels Corporation have entered into a strategic cooperation agreement to… Read the full press release

MGallery Unveils Hotel Sosei Sapporo: A Japanese Heritage Retreat

A new addition to the MGallery hotel collection (IN SHORT) Hotel Sosei Sapporo, the latest addition to Accor Group’s MGallery Collection, has opened its doors in the historic Sosei East neighborhood of Sapporo, Japan. The hotel, situated on the island of Hokkaido, offers guests an immersive experience that celebrates Japanese tradition while incorporating modern elements…. Read the full press release

Hyatt Unveils Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres Resort in Mexico

The 507-room adults-only resort, situated along a secluded strip of idyllic oceanfront coast, expands the Secrets Resorts & Spas brand presence in Mexico (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation has officially opened the Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres resort in Mexico, marking a significant addition to its leisure portfolio in the Mexican Caribbean. The adults-only, 507-room… Read the full press release

Six Senses Kyoto: A Blend of Tradition and Luxury in Japan’s Cultural Heart

(IN SHORT) Six Senses Kyoto is set to open its doors in the historic Higashiyama district, marking the brand’s debut in Japan. Located in the cultural heart of Kyoto, the hotel offers guests a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern luxury. With 81 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, the hotel provides views of… Read the full press release

Emirates Expands Chauffeur-Drive Service for Business Class Passengers in Hong Kong

(IN SHORT) Emirates has extended its Chauffeur-drive service to Business Class passengers traveling to and from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) as of February 1, 2024. This complimentary service enhances the airline’s premium offering in Hong Kong, providing a convenient door-to-door journey for Business Class travelers. Passengers can choose from a range of luxurious vehicles… Read the full press release

Emirates Introduces Visa On Arrival Facility for Indian Passport Holders

New initiative enables eligible Emirates customers to skip the Visa-On-Arrival queue in Dubai Service exclusive to Indian passport holders who have booked their travel on Emirates with a valid six-month visa for US, EU or UK  Residency (IN SHORT) Emirates has partnered with VFS Global to offer a pre-approved visa on arrival service for Indian… Read the full press release

Anantara Expands Its Luxury Portfolio in Oman with New Resort in Bandar Al Khairan

New Anantara Resort in Bandar Al Khairan, Muscat to launch in 2026 (IN SHORT) Minor Hotels, the international hotel owner, operator, and investor, is set to expand its Anantara brand in Oman with a new luxury resort in Bandar Al Khairan, Muscat. The 121-key property, scheduled to open in 2026, will include guest rooms, chalets, and… Read the full press release

dnata Transitions to Electric Fleet at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport as Part of Green Strategy

More than 65% of all dnata’s ground support equipment at Schiphol Airport is now electric dnata on track to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 globally (IN SHORT) dnata, a global air and travel services provider, is making strides toward its goal of reducing its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030 by replacing all… Read the full press release

TFE Hotels Announces New Partnership Agreement in Western Australia with Serene Capital

(IN SHORT) TFE Hotels has entered into a partnership agreement with Serene Capital, a Boutique Fund Manager, for the Adina Apartment Hotel Barrack Plaza in Perth’s CBD. The hotel, consisting of 100 keys, now falls under the ownership of Serene Capital, expanding their portfolio to over A$850 million in assets. This partnership marks the third… Read the full press release