Delaware North Chef Champions Sustainability at Empire State Building’s STATE Grill and Bar

(IN SHORT) In honor of the 25th anniversary of Delaware North’s GreenPath® program, the company is highlighting Chef Jarrett from STATE Grill and Bar, who is known for her commitment to sustainable practices. At the Empire State Building’s iconic restaurant, Jarrett prioritizes local, eco-friendly ingredients, such as mushrooms from Afterlife Mushrooms and honey from on-site… Read the full news article

Southwest Airlines Appoints Rakesh Gangwal as Independent Board Chair, Announces New Committee Leaders

(IN SHORT) Southwest Airlines has appointed Rakesh Gangwal as the new independent Chair of its Board of Directors and assigned new Chairs for its Board Committees. Gangwal aims to work closely with CEO Bob Jordan and the leadership team to strengthen the airline’s financial performance. CEO Jordan also acknowledged the dedication of Southwest employees, emphasizing… Read the full news article

Emirates Returns to Edinburgh with Daily Service, Boosting Tourism and Trade Links for Scotland

Reinstated flight will meet market demand and offer customers more travel options (IN SHORT) Emirates has resumed its daily flights to Edinburgh, its eighth UK destination, after a three-year pause. The return flight was celebrated with a performance by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This new daily service complements Emirates’ Glasgow route, providing Scottish travelers… Read the full news article

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 news article

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 news article

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 news article

Marco Polo Xiamen Unveils Dream Wedding Options with Romantic Pink-Themed Showcase

(IN SHORT) Marco Polo Xiamen recently hosted a romantic, pink-themed wedding showcase at its Marco Polo Ballroom, highlighting its elegant venue and dedicated banquet team. Guests enjoyed immersive decor, gourmet dining options, and exclusive wedding packages designed to simplify planning for soon-to-be-married couples. The hotel’s flexible offerings cater to both grand and intimate celebrations, ensuring… Read the full news article

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 news article

Singapore Airlines Unveils S$1.1 Billion A350 Cabin Upgrade, Featuring New First Class for Ultra-Long-Haul Flights

(IN SHORT) Singapore Airlines has committed S$1.1 billion to retrofit its Airbus A350 fleet, introducing upgraded First, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy Class cabins across 41 aircraft. This investment will bring a new, luxurious First Class to its A350-900ULR aircraft for ultra-long-haul flights, along with enhanced privacy and comfort in Business Class. The upgraded cabins… Read the full news article

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 news article

Marriott Bonvoy Elevates Manchester United Fandom with VIP Experiences and Exclusive Access at Old Trafford

Through a sweepstakes and Marriott Bonvoy Moments, the Red Army can pursue its passions with exclusive experiences offered only by Marriott Bonvoy and Marriott Hotels (IN SHORT) Marriott Bonvoy is offering Manchester United fans exclusive experiences throughout the 2024-2025 season, allowing them to engage with the team in unique ways. Through the Marriott Bonvoy Moments… Read the full news article

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 news article

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 news article

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 news article

flydubai Commemorates UAE Flag Day, Honoring National Unity and Heritage

(IN SHORT) flydubai marked UAE Flag Day at its campus with CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith, senior leaders, and employees joining in the celebration. Al Ghaith emphasized the flag as a powerful symbol of unity, heritage, and shared national values, and highlighted flydubai’s commitment to promoting UAE’s culture globally. He also honored the nation’s founding fathers,… Read the full news article

Royal Caribbean Unveils Bold European Adventures for Summer 2026, Including Solar Eclipse Cruise and Harmony of the Seas Return

Vacationers can pick from a lineup of vacations across Europe, including the returning Harmony of the Seas and a special solar eclipse experience (IN SHORT) Royal Caribbean is enhancing its European offerings for summer 2026, with cruises to over 60 destinations across the Mediterranean and northern Europe. Highlights include the return of Harmony of the Seas to… Read the full news article

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 news article

The Sira Resort & Spa Opens in Lombok, Blending Luxury with Local Culture on Sire Beach

(IN SHORT) The Luxury Collection has opened The Sira, a new resort and spa in Lombok, Indonesia, offering guests a luxurious experience that blends modern design with Lombok’s cultural heritage. The beachfront resort includes 46 suites, 14 pool villas, and features unique dining options, a fitness center, a two-level infinity pool, and a spa inspired… Read the full news article

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 news article

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 news article

Emirates Reintroduces ‘My Emirates Pass’ for Exclusive Discounts in Dubai and the UAE

Enjoy some winter sun and use your Emirates boarding pass to unlock five months of exclusive offers at hundreds of locations in Dubai and the UAE (IN SHORT) Emirates has relaunched the My Emirates Pass, offering travelers exclusive discounts and benefits across Dubai and the UAE from November 2024 through March 2025. Passengers can use… Read the full news article

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 news article

Minor Hotels Appoints Omar Romero as Chief Development Officer to Lead Global Expansion

Romero is the latest addition to the hospitality group’s senior leadership team as it accelerates its global expansion plans (IN SHORT) Minor Hotels has appointed Omar Romero as Chief Development and Luxury Officer to drive its global expansion and luxury brand curation efforts. With over 20 years of hospitality experience, Romero will spearhead Minor’s strategy… Read the full news article

Louisiana Native Natalie Placer Joins Four Seasons New Orleans as Director of Marketing

Louisiana native and Four Seasons veteran returns home to lead marketing for celebrated hotel (IN SHORT) Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans has appointed Louisiana native Natalie Placer as Director of Marketing. With over 20 years in luxury hospitality and a strong background with Four Seasons properties nationwide, Placer will lead marketing for New Orleans’ only… Read the full news article

Choice Privileges Expands Rewards Program with Flexible Redemption Options and Enhanced Benefits

Members can redeem points at more than 7,000 hotels around the world, including 1,000 luxury and upscale, full-service hotels across Radisson, Radisson Blu, Cambria Hotels and others (IN SHORT) Choice Hotels’ Choice Privileges program is introducing new features in early 2025, enhancing flexibility and value for members. These updates include a 50-week booking window for… Read the full news article

KLM Celebrates Fourth Consecutive APEX World Class Award, Highlighting Commitment to Customer Experience and Sustainability

(IN SHORT) KLM has been awarded the APEX World Class Award for the fourth consecutive year, recognizing its outstanding achievements in customer experience, sustainability, and safety. This prestigious honor, presented by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), is based on global audits and consumer feedback. Ben Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, accepted the award in… Read the full news article

SAS Achieves Five Star Rating in 2025 APEX Awards, Recognizing Commitment to Customer Excellence

(IN SHORT) Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has been awarded a Five Star rating in the 2025 APEX global customer rankings, reflecting the airline’s commitment to exceptional passenger experiences. This recognition is based on nearly one million passenger reviews of 600 airlines worldwide and places SAS among the top 30 airlines globally, representing the top 7% in… Read the full news article

Phetchaburi Prepares to Host PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024, Showcasing Cultural and Culinary Tourism

Phetchaburi Province, TCEB, DASTA, TAT, Dusit Thani Hua Hin and PATA held a press conference on the preparation of the forum. (IN SHORT) Phetchaburi Province is set to host the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 (PDMF 2024) from November 12 to 14, 2024. A press conference on October 30 highlighted the partnership between the Pacific… Read the full news article

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 news article

PATA Reports Strong Recovery in Asia Pacific Tourism with 2024 Outlook for Continued Growth

(IN SHORT) The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) released its Annual Tourism Report for 2024, highlighting a significant rebound in international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across the Asia Pacific region, which nearly doubled in 2023 compared to the previous year. The report reveals that 522 million visitors arrived in 47 destinations, marking a 94.3% increase. Key… Read the full news article