Qatar Airways Announces Historic Aircraft and Engine Orders with Boeing and GE Aerospace to Expand Its Fleet

(IN SHORT) Qatar Airways has signed an agreement with Boeing for up to 210 widebody jets, including the largest order for 787 Dreamliners in Boeing’s history. The deal includes 130 Dreamliners, 30 777-9 aircraft, and options for 50 additional planes. The airline also reached a record deal with GE Aerospace for over 400 engines to… Read the full news article

Finnair Pioneers Airline Industry’s Future with the World’s First ‘Native Order’ System for Digital Retailing

(IN SHORT) Finnair has launched the world’s first ‘Native Order’ system, revolutionizing the airline industry’s retailing approach. Partnering with Amadeus, Finnair introduces a unified order management system that integrates flight details, services, and customer preferences into a single, easy-to-manage record. This innovation streamlines customer experiences, enables personalization, and enhances Finnair’s ability to offer dynamic travel… Read the full news article

IATA Highlights the Vital Economic Role of Aviation in Kenya, Supporting Billions in GDP and Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs

(IN SHORT) IATA’s “Value of Air Transport” study for Kenya reveals that the aviation sector contributes USD 3.3 billion to the national GDP and supports 460,000 jobs. The study highlights Kenya’s potential for growth in air transport, emphasizing infrastructure development, digitalization, and workforce training as key priorities for sustaining future success. IATA projects a 3.7%… Read the full news article

Qatar Airways Makes Aviation History with the World’s First E-Sports Competition Held at 35,000 Feet

(IN SHORT) Qatar Airways has made aviation history by hosting the world’s first e-sports competition aboard a commercial aircraft, ‘Gaming in the Sky’, during a flight from Doha to London on 11 May 2025. The event, powered by Starlink’s ultra-fast connectivity, brought together top gaming talent and allowed fans to follow the action live via… Read the full news article

Hyatt Announces the Development of Casa Duhau, Mendoza’s New Luxury Hotel in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

(IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation, in partnership with the Scalesciani and David families, has announced the development of Casa Duhau, a luxury hotel in Mendoza, Argentina, within The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. Set to open in late 2027, the hotel will feature 52 villas and suites with stunning views of the Andes Mountains and nearby… Read the full news article

Blue Islands Launches New Newcastle Service Connecting Guernsey and Jersey to the North East

(IN SHORT) Blue Islands has launched a new direct flight service between Newcastle and the Channel Islands, offering up to three flights a week this summer. The new route, celebrated with an inaugural flight, strengthens the airline’s connectivity and supports tourism in the region. Blue Islands is also introducing a new route to Paris starting… Read the full news article

Singapore Airlines Partners with Neste and World Energy to Expand Sustainable Aviation Fuel Use and Drive Decarbonization

(IN SHORT) Singapore Airlines has entered strategic partnerships with Neste and World Energy to purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and SAF certificates, contributing to its ongoing decarbonization efforts. The acquisitions, which include 1,000 tonnes of neat SAF and 2,000 tonnes of SAF emissions reductions, are expected to reduce over 9,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Additionally,… Read the full news article

Celebrate Bike Day on May 15 with Free Metrolink Rides for Cyclists Across Southern California

(IN SHORT) Metrolink is celebrating Bike Day on May 15, 2025, offering free train rides for passengers traveling with bicycles, including on the Arrow service. No ticket is required as a bicycle will serve as the fare. The event encourages sustainable transportation, with bike storage available on most trains and special promotions offered by other… Read the full news article

Air Canada Expands Luxury Motorcoach Connectivity with The Landline Company for More Convenient Regional Travel

(IN SHORT) Air Canada and The Landline Company have extended their partnership to continue providing seamless luxury motorcoach services connecting Toronto Pearson with Hamilton and Waterloo Region airports. The service, which has proven popular since its launch a year ago, offers passengers comfort and convenience with new upgrades, such as fast Wi-Fi. The airlines are… Read the full news article

Las Vegas Memorial Day Weekend 2025 Celebrates with Top Artists, Pool Parties, and Exclusive Dining Deals

(IN SHORT) Las Vegas is set to heat up for Memorial Day weekend 2025, with a variety of exceptional events, including the 25th anniversary of the Punk Rock Bowling & Music Festival and exciting new pool parties at Flamingo Las Vegas. Guests can enjoy live music from top performers, including Fat Joe, Martin Garrix, Zedd,… Read the full news article

Korean Air and Delta Air Lines Strengthen Their Partnerships with WestJet Through Strategic Equity Investments

(IN SHORT) Korean Air and Delta Air Lines have announced their purchase of minority equity stakes in WestJet, strengthening their existing partnerships with the Canadian airline. Delta will invest US$330 million for a 15% stake, while Korean Air will invest US$220 million for 10%. These investments, which build on years of codeshare partnerships, are expected… Read the full news article

Explore Central and South America’s Rich Ecosystems and Cultures with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ 2025 Expedition Voyages

(IN SHORT) Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers three carefully crafted expeditions in November and December 2025 through Central and South America. The HANSEATIC inspiration will take travelers on an immersive journey from Costa Rica through the Panama Canal to the Chilean fjords, offering an unparalleled combination of nature, culture, and adventure. These expeditions provide deep engagement with… Read the full news article

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ EUROPA to Launch Exclusive Winter Cruises Exploring Southern Africa and Indian Ocean Islands in Fall 2025

(IN SHORT) Starting in fall 2025, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ luxury ship EUROPA will offer cruises exploring southern Africa and the Indian Ocean islands. The cruises will feature top-tier dining, luxury accommodations, and unique entertainment experiences, all set against the backdrop of exotic destinations like the Seychelles, Madagascar, and Mauritius. Guests can indulge in personalized pre- and… Read the full news article

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Unveils Expanded Art Experience on EUROPA 2 with Exclusive Gallery Partnerships and Cultural Voyages for Mediterranean Season

(IN SHORT) Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is expanding its art program on the EUROPA 2 for the Mediterranean summer season in 2025, featuring rotating exhibitions from top-tier galleries. The ship will host art from renowned European galleries, including works from established artists like Gerhard Richter and Damien Hirst, alongside new pieces from young European talents. The program… Read the full news article

JAL Expands Cargo Operations with Increased Frequencies and New Routes in FY2025 Summer Schedule

(IN SHORT) JAL’s updated FY2025 Summer schedule will include increased frequencies on routes to Tianjin and Taipei, alongside the introduction of a new cargo route between Narita and Incheon. With an emphasis on transporting essential goods, JAL continues to enhance its air cargo capabilities and infrastructure to support the logistics needs of businesses worldwide. (PRESS… Read the full news article

Wizz Air’s New Base in Yerevan to Offer 1.2 Million Seats Annually and Expand Regional Connectivity

Wizz Air adds four new routes from North Macedonia to Italy, Germany and Denmark

(IN SHORT) Wizz Air’s new base in Yerevan, launching October 2025, introduces eight new routes to six countries, reinforcing the airline’s leadership in Armenia’s aviation sector. The Airbus A321neo aircraft will offer sustainable travel options, while the base’s expansion is expected to create 100 direct jobs and 800 indirect jobs in Armenia. With over 1.2… Read the full news article

flydubai Enhances Connectivity with New Daily Flights Between Dubai and Peshawar

(IN SHORT) flydubai announces the launch of daily flights to Peshawar, Pakistan, starting from 15 May 2025, offering more travel options for passengers. This expansion adds to the carrier’s growing network, further strengthening its presence in Pakistan after successfully launching flights to various cities since 2010. With the introduction of direct flights to Peshawar, flydubai… Read the full news article

American Airlines Becomes Official Airline of U.S. Soccer, Offering Exclusive Travel Perks for Fans

(IN SHORT) American Airlines has announced a multiyear partnership with U.S. Soccer to enhance the fan experience and provide exclusive travel perks for AAdvantage® members. The partnership will include matchday experiences, flyaway trips, and behind-the-scenes access for fans, while American will also sponsor a digital content series showcasing U.S. Soccer’s passionate community. (PRESS RELEASE) ATLANTA/… Read the full news article

New Flights and Increased Frequencies from American Airlines and Qantas to Australia in 2025

(IN SHORT) American Airlines and Qantas are enhancing travel between North America and the South Pacific for the winter of 2025 with new and increased services to Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. The partnership between the two airlines continues to offer seamless connectivity and expanded travel options for customers seeking to explore one of the world’s… Read the full news article

Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites Evolves into Full-Service Brand with New Identity and Guest Experience

(IN SHORT) Minor Hotels has unveiled a major transformation of its Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites brand, shifting from serviced apartments to a full-service hotel and resort experience. With a new service culture, refreshed brand identity, and innovative in-room and communal offerings, Oaks is positioned for global growth, strengthening its appeal among both corporate and… Read the full news article

PATA Opens Submissions for Face of the Future 2025 Award, Celebrating Emerging Leaders in Tourism

(IN SHORT) PATA is now accepting submissions for the Face of the Future 2025 award, with a deadline of June 15, 2025. The award recognizes young professionals in the Asia Pacific region who demonstrate leadership and innovation in sustainable tourism. The winner will receive various benefits, including sponsorship to attend PATA Travel Mart 2025, a… Read the full news article

Shannon Airport Welcomes 14 New Security Officers Ahead of Busy Summer Season

(IN SHORT) Shannon Airport has expanded its security team with fourteen new Airport Search Unit officers in preparation for the summer season. The recruits completed extensive training, including the use of advanced screening technology and essential security procedures. They will help ensure smooth and secure travel for passengers at Shannon Airport throughout the busy summer… Read the full news article

Shannon Airport Welcomes TUI’s New Majorca Service, Adding 6,800 Seats This Summer

(IN SHORT) Shannon Airport celebrates the launch of TUI’s new weekly service to Palma, Majorca, adding 6,800 seats for the summer season. The service will operate every Tuesday until September 2025 and marks the return of TUI’s Majorca route since 2019. This addition complements TUI’s existing flights to Lanzarote and Costa Dorada. (PRESS RELEASE) COUNTY… Read the full news article

TRENZ 2025 Wraps Up with Record Business Meetings, Announces Auckland 2026 as Host City

(IN SHORT) TRENZ 2025 has concluded successfully in Rotorua, and Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) has announced that TRENZ will return to Auckland in 2026. Hosted at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), the event will highlight the region’s new developments and sustainable initiatives. Auckland’s dynamic, diverse offerings will be showcased to international delegates, marking… Read the full news article

Marriott Partners with VERKEHRSBUERO HOSPITALITY to Open Five Hotels Across Austria, Including Debut of Four Points Flex by Sheraton

(IN SHORT) Marriott International has signed a multi-deal agreement with VERKEHRSBUERO HOSPITALITY to convert five Austrian properties into Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, AC Hotels, and Four Points Flex by Sheraton brands. The conversion will add over 1,100 rooms to Marriott’s portfolio, with a focus on expanding the midscale segment with the debut of Four Points Flex… Read the full news article

Gotham Lounge at The Peninsula New York Celebrates Van Gogh with Exclusive Floral Afternoon Tea Experience

(IN SHORT) The Peninsula New York is hosting a Van Gogh Floral Afternoon Tea at Gotham Lounge from May 6 to June 28, 2025. This exclusive collaboration with the New York Botanical Garden celebrates Van Gogh’s botanical works with an elegant tea service featuring floral-inspired sweet and savory dishes. Guests will enjoy a curated selection… Read the full news article

Soleil by Claude: The Peninsula London’s Mediterranean-Inspired Summer Pop-Up with Breathtaking Views

(IN SHORT) This summer, The Peninsula London introduces Soleil by Claude, a Mediterranean-inspired rooftop pop-up that runs from July 2nd to August 31st, 2025. Chef Claude Bosi brings the relaxed charm of Southern Europe to Belgravia with a menu that highlights British produce in vibrant Mediterranean dishes. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner while… Read the full news article

Salzburg Festival 2025 Opens with Keynote by Anne Applebaum on Democracy, Power, and Global Challenges

(IN SHORT) Anne Applebaum, the renowned Polish-American historian and journalist, will deliver the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Salzburg Festival. Her speech, titled “Democracy and the Music Festival,” will examine the challenges posed by authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic norms. Applebaum, known for her work on the Soviet Union and… Read the full news article

European Tourism Sees Continued Growth in Q1 2025 Amid Economic Pressures and Geopolitical Uncertainty

(IN SHORT) European tourism has seen continued growth, with international arrivals rising by 4.9% in Q1 2025 compared to last year. Demand for value-for-money destinations and off-peak travel remains strong, although new US tariffs and geopolitical tensions may influence future travel patterns. Winter tourism destinations and Mediterranean areas have seen notable increases in visitor numbers,… Read the full news article