Minor Hotels Boosts India Ties with Three-City Roadshow, Eyes 50 New Properties Including Anantara Jaipur

(IN SHORT) Minor Hotels recently concluded a successful roadshow across Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad, promoting their distinctive travel experiences to over 400 Indian travel agents, wedding planners, and MICE companies. The event introduced 26 Minor Hotels properties from popular destinations, including the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia, with a focus on destination weddings and… Read the full press release

Qantas Debuts ‘Palau Paradise Express’ from Brisbane, Expanding Access to Pacific’s Natural Wonders

(IN SHORT) Qantas is launching a new route connecting Brisbane to Palau, marking its fifth international destination added from Queensland in the past year. The “Palau Paradise Express,” scheduled to commence on December 7, will provide weekly direct flights to this Pacific Island nation renowned for its UNESCO-listed Rock Islands and unique marine environments. Qantas… Read the full press release

Air Canada Expands Summer 2025 Schedule with New Routes to Europe, U.S., and Asia for Enhanced Global Connectivity

New services between Montreal and Naples, Italy, Montreal and Porto, Portugal Return of Toronto-Prague, Toronto-Port of Spain and Ottawa-London flights New Montreal-Cincinnati and Vancouver-Nashville services, and the resumption of Toronto-Jacksonville,   Over 100,000 weekly seats to 30 destinations across Europe and North Africa in the peak of Summer 2025 (IN SHORT) Air Canada is expanding its Summer 2025 offerings with new routes to Naples, Porto, Cincinnati, and Nashville, along with returning services to Prague, Port of… Read the full press release

Air Canada Expands Intermodal Travel Options with New Rail and Bus Connections Across Europe and Asia

(IN SHORT) Air Canada has broadened its intermodal travel options by adding rail and bus connections in Italy, Spain, Britain, and South Korea, offering seamless air-to-land itineraries for customers. This expanded strategy, launched in partnership with AccesRail, enables travelers to book both air and land segments in one itinerary, enhancing convenience and sustainability for short-haul… Read the full press release

Hotel Niccolo Changsha Marks Sixth Anniversary with ‘The Road to N’ Series Celebrating Exploration and Sustainability

(IN SHORT) Celebrating its sixth anniversary, Hotel Niccolo Changsha has launched “The Road to N” series, inviting guests to explore themes of style, urban innovation, and sustainability. The festivities include a thematic video series, a sustainable living lecture, and a recycling workshop. These experiences reflect the hotel’s dedication to luxury and meaningful engagement with Changsha’s… Read the full press release

Marco Polo Jinjiang and Häagen-Dazs Launch Exclusive ‘Sweet Ice Point’ Afternoon Tea Experience in Stunning Lobby Lounge

(IN SHORT) Marco Polo Jinjiang has teamed up with Häagen-Dazs to offer the “Sweet Ice Point” co-branded afternoon tea experience, available in the hotel’s newly designed, light-filled lobby lounge until December 31, 2024. This afternoon tea set includes two scoops of Häagen-Dazs ice cream and a variety of elegant desserts, creating a refined and inviting… Read the full press release

UK Aviation Accessibility Taskforce Launched to Improve Air Travel Experience for Disabled Passengers

(IN SHORT) The UK Government has formed the Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group to enhance air travel accessibility for disabled passengers. With input from leaders across the aviation industry and disability advocates, the group will focus on removing barriers and improving service standards, engaging directly with passengers to ensure their voices guide meaningful change…. Read the full press release

easyJet Debuts Bristol-Istanbul Route, Adding Affordable Access to Turkey’s Top Tourist Destination

easyJet has launched its first flights and package holidays from Bristol Airport to Istanbul for customers eager to explore Turkey’s top tourism hotspot, becoming the only carrier operating the route. Seats are available to book at easyJet.com and via the mobile app with great value fares starting from just £23.99* Package holidays with easyJet holidays… Read the full press release

Accor and Arora Group Break Ground on Luxury Sofitel Hotel at Dublin Airport, Set to Open in 2026

(IN SHORT) Accor and the Arora Group have begun construction on the new Sofitel Dublin Airport, a luxury hotel expected to open in 2026. The hotel, featuring 412 rooms, upscale dining, and a sky bar, will provide seamless access to Terminal 2. This project marks Arora’s first venture in Ireland, bringing hundreds of jobs and… Read the full press release

Finavia Secures New Taxi Service Partnership for Kuopio Airport, Ensuring Reliable Transportation Options for Passengers

(IN SHORT) Finavia has awarded Kuljettajasi Oy a contract for taxi services at Kuopio Airport starting February 2025, while existing provider Kuopion Taksiykköset will continue its service. The new agreement ensures reliable transportation options with reserved lanes for contracted taxis, maintaining flexibility for passengers to select any taxi service. (PRESS RELEASE) Vantaa, Finland, 2024-Nov-7 —… Read the full press release

Emirates Partners with Spotify to Bring Curated Playlists and Podcasts to Passengers on Flights Worldwide

(IN SHORT) Emirates has launched a collaboration with Spotify, offering curated playlists and top podcasts on flights to 140 destinations. This addition to the ice entertainment system caters to a diverse audience with multi-language content, adding to Emirates’ extensive media library and providing a more personalized inflight experience. (PRESS RELEASE) Dubai, UAE, 2024-Nov-7 — /Travel… Read the full press release

Japan Airlines and Lime Partner to Boost Sustainable Last-Mile Travel Across Japan with New E-Scooter Network and Mileage Rewards

JAL mileage linkage and port collaboration will supercharge Lime’s growth and brand awareness, while offering major benefits to consumers and travelers (IN SHORT) Japan Airlines has partnered with Lime to enhance last-mile travel solutions across Japan, offering mileage rewards to Lime riders and expanding e-scooter networks in key regions. This collaboration aims to make sustainable… Read the full press release

Air Tahiti Nui and Air Rarotonga Codeshare Partnership Boosts Connectivity Across South Pacific Islands

(IN SHORT) Air Tahiti Nui and Air Rarotonga have launched a new codeshare partnership, enhancing connectivity between the United States, French Polynesia, and the Cook Islands. This agreement allows travelers to book a single ticket for seamless travel between the islands, with coordinated schedules, simplified transfers, and loyalty benefits. The partnership aims to provide more… 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

Mandarin Oriental Expands in the U.S. with New Miami Development, Showcasing Luxury and Sustainability

(IN SHORT) Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is expanding its footprint in the U.S. with a major new development on Miami’s Brickell Key, marking an exciting phase in its growth across the Americas. The project was recently celebrated with an exclusive event featuring top chefs and mixologists from the Group’s properties worldwide. With plans to double… Read the full press release

Hyatt Centric Malta Debuts in St. Julian’s, Offering Stylish Hub for Exploring Malta’s Cultural Heritage

The 170-room lifestyle hotel connects guests with three unique UNESCO World Heritage sites (IN SHORT) Hyatt has opened Hyatt Centric Malta in the bustling town of St. Julian’s, marking the first Hyatt Centric property in Malta and the seventh in Europe. The 170-room hotel combines modern design with elements inspired by Maltese culture, and it… Read the full press release

Hyatt Centric Playa del Carmen Set to Open in Late 2024, Bringing Modern Lifestyle Experience to Mexico’s Vibrant Beach Town

The lifestyle hotel is expected to resume operations as a Hyatt Centric branded hotel by the end of the year, marking the second Hyatt Centric property in Mexico (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation is rebranding Thompson Playa del Carmen Main House and Beach House as Hyatt Centric Playa del Carmen, set to reopen by late… Read the full press release

Hyatt to Open New Hyatt Regency in Lumbini, Strengthening Presence in Nepal’s Historic Tourism Hub

The 175-guestroom property will be the fourth Hyatt branded property in Nepal and will mark the second hotel with Golyan Group (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation has partnered with Veda Hospitality Private Limited to open Hyatt Regency Lumbini, the fourth Hyatt-branded hotel in Nepal. Scheduled to open by 2028, the property will be located near… Read the full press release

Airport Handling Secures Court Approval to Begin Ground Services at Rome Fiumicino in 2025

Ground services provider to invest over €20 million in ground support equipment and employ 1,800 aviation professionals at FCO (IN SHORT) Airport Handling S.p.A., a dnata subsidiary, has received final approval to operate ground handling services at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) after the Lazio Regional Administrative Court upheld its seven-year license award. Set to launch… Read the full press release

Swissport Opens Pet Lounge at Johannesburg Airport to Enhance Comfort and Care for Traveling Pets

(IN SHORT) Swissport has launched a dedicated Pet Lounge at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, providing a calm, stress-free environment for unaccompanied pets traveling through the airport. The facility, equipped with air conditioning, water, and soothing music, is staffed by a trained team and complies with IATA’s Live Animals Regulations. Swissport works closely with South… Read the full press release

IATA and ASA Partner to Boost Safety and Efficiency in Ground Handling with Enhanced Data Sharing and Standardization

(IN SHORT) The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Airport Services Association (ASA) have strengthened their partnership to enhance safety and efficiency in ground handling. By sharing safety data and coordinating on global standards, they aim to improve data-driven decision-making and reinforce industry-wide best practices. This collaboration will focus on safety information sharing through… Read the full press release

Hyatt Expands Inclusive Collection with New Adults-Only AluaSoul Costa Adeje in Tenerife

The 226-room adults-only hotel, located on the southern coast of Tenerife, offers travelers the opportunity to explore local attractions and activities while enjoying the conveniences of an all-inclusive hotel. (IN SHORT) Hyatt has launched AluaSoul Costa Adeje, a 226-room adults-only hotel on Tenerife’s southern coast, expanding its Inclusive Collection in the Canary Islands. The hotel… Read the full press release

Cathay Pacific’s SAF Programme Gains Momentum with New Partners and Record Carbon Reduction Targets

New global partners come onboard bringing the total to 15 as programme expands with tiered structure (IN SHORT) Cathay Pacific’s Corporate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Programme has grown significantly in 2024, now including 15 global partners, with new additions such as DB Schenker and Kuehne+Nagel. The programme’s expanded tiered structure allows companies to join based… Read the full press release

Hilton Expands Italian Footprint with New DoubleTree in Naples and Hampton in Central Rome

Hilton bolsters Italian portfolio with two additional 2025 openings under its DoubleTree by Hilton and Hampton by Hilton brands (IN SHORT) Hilton is expanding its Italian portfolio with two new hotels opening in 2025: Hampton by Hilton Rome St Peter’s, the brand’s first central Rome property, and DoubleTree by Hilton Naples Oriente, marking the brand’s… Read the full press release

Regent Hotels Launch Artistic Culinary Experiences in Shanghai and Phu Quoc, Fusing Fine Dining with Cultural Storytelling

‘The Magic of Beauty of Contrast’ at Regent Shanghai on The Bund & ‘The Way of The Sea’ at Regent Phu Quoc (IN SHORT) Regent Hotels & Resorts has launched two unique culinary events under its Regent Taste Studio series at Regent Shanghai on The Bund and Regent Phu Quoc. These experiences, titled The Magic… Read the full press release

JAL and J VALUE Join Forces to Boost Japanese Agricultural Exports in Thailand’s Thonglor Market

(IN SHORT) Japan Airlines (JAL) and J VALUE have formed a partnership to expand the presence of Japanese agricultural and marine products in Thailand through the Thonglor Nihon Ichiba wholesale market in Bangkok. This collaboration leverages JAL’s reliable logistics network to ensure high-quality, temperature-controlled delivery, while J VALUE will enhance visibility and sales through events… Read the full press release

Cathay Pacific Launches Direct Hong Kong-Riyadh Flights, Enhancing Links with Saudi Arabia

Providing travellers from Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia with greater convenience and connectivity (IN SHORT) Cathay Pacific has launched a new direct flight route connecting Hong Kong and Riyadh, operating three times weekly. This route aims to boost tourism, business, and cultural connections between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia, supporting initiatives like the Belt and… Read the full press release

Hilton Opens Hilton Woking, Featuring Surrey’s Largest Hotel Ballroom and Stunning Views

Hilton Woking features extensive meeting and event facilities, including Surrey’s largest hotel ballroom, alongside panoramic views from its 22nd floor LOFT Sky Bar, and marks a significant step in the town’s regeneration. (IN SHORT) Hilton has opened Hilton Woking in Victoria Square, featuring Surrey’s largest hotel ballroom, a 22nd-floor LOFT Sky Bar, and panoramic views…. Read the full press release

IHG Expands Montenegro Presence with New Crowne Plaza Podgorica in Capital Plaza Complex

Crowne Plaza Podgorica set to open in the Capital Plaza by the end of 2024 (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement to open Crowne Plaza Podgorica in Montenegro by the end of 2024. Located in the Capital Plaza complex, the 122-room hotel will cater to business and leisure travelers, offering various… Read the full press release

Emirates and Copenhagen Design Launch Exclusive Collection of Lifestyle Items Inspired by Emirates’ Iconic Gold Branding

(IN SHORT) Emirates has collaborated with Danish brand Copenhagen Design to launch a collection of lifestyle items inspired by the airline’s iconic gold branding. The Emirates x Pantone collection includes high-quality keychains, tote bags, a notebook, and more, all in Emirates’ signature gold tones. Celebrating nearly 40 years of Emirates’ global presence, this exclusive collection… Read the full press release