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Emirates unwraps Christmas Magic at 40,000 Feet

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Your Stories
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DUBAI, UAE, 11 December 2025: This December, Emirates is sprinkling seasonal magic across every customer’s journey, inviting passengers to embrace the warmth, wonder, and whimsy of Christmas from departure to destination. 

As the airline prepares for more than 2.3 million departures and 2.5 million arrivals in the coming weekends, those flying with Emirates can expect generous touches of festive flair, from winter-inspired menus in global lounges to treasured traditions served at 40,000 feet.

Classic Christmas cuisine above the clouds

Throughout the month, customers will be greeted with hallmark tastes of the season, beginning with aromatic festive hot chocolate served in all classes, from 17 to 26 December. Between 24 and 26 December, travellers departing Dubai will receive seasonal mini treats including dark chocolate truffles in Economy Class, homemade gingerbread cookies in Premium Economy and Business Class, and a decadent raspberry Paris-Brest pastry in First Class.

In First, Business, and Premium Economy Class, the Christmas table is reimagined with a global culinary lens – beginning with dishes like salmon gravadlax marinated in beetroot and orange, delicately pickled herring with potato and quail egg salad, or smoked salmon crowned with crab mayonnaise and salmon roe. The main courses bring the nostalgia of a traditional holiday feast – classic turkey with jus, chestnut and turkey bacon stuffing, truffle potato gratin, caramelised chestnuts, and roasted brussels sprouts alongside new chef-curated creations on select routes, from herb-crusted lamb shank with jus, braised cabbage and butternut squash, to duck confit glazed in cranberry jus lié, and seared venison enriched with sage butter and blackberry sauce. For dessert, a constellation of festive sweets awaits, with First Class guests also receiving an edible Santa Claus sculpted from fresh strawberries and cream.

Economy Class customers can look forward to unwrapping their own festive feast of roasted turkey with chestnut and turkey bacon roulade and maple-roasted parsnips, followed by orange-soaked traditional fruit cake, or a mini mousse cake featuring one of Santa’s reindeer—especially designed for younger travellers.

At the A380 Onboard Lounge, the merriment continues with artisanal sweet treats such as mince pies, stollen, panettone, festive macarons, ginger profiteroles, dark chocolate ganache, cranberry financier, hazelnut and cranberry jars, biscotti, and candy canes. For savoury savants, a hearty Christmas sandwich layered with turkey, roast beef, cheddar, cranberry sauce and chilli tomato relish is the ultimate snack for the festive season. For some extra festive fun, guests at the A380 Onboard Lounge can grab Emirates’ new seasonal selfie props and take a perfect picture to mark the season.

Lounges: Festive fare with flair

From 15 to 31 December, Emirates’ First and Business Class lounges in Dubai transform into winter-warm culinary havens where guests can savour traditional roasted turkey with jus and cranberry sauce, glazed chestnuts, root vegetables, Brussels sprouts, and new potatoes, paired with festive cocktails such as Emirates’ Cognac Crème Panettone. The holiday mood extends to a thoughtful Champagne selection, with Moët & Chandon Ice Brut and Ice Rosé paired with specially created sorbets, Grand Vintage 2016, Imperial Brut, Rosé Imperial and Nectar Imperial, served alongside elegant new canapés including foie gras bonbons and miso-pumpkin tart. Classic seasonal desserts from traditional stollen and mince pies dusted with vanilla sauce to Emirates’ homemade apple pie with cinnamon ice cream or cranberry sorbet complete the experience. Visitors can also warm up with gingerbread lattes or Galaxy hot chocolate crafted by Costa Coffee.

Across Emirates lounges worldwide—spanning Australia, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand, the UK and the USA—guests will find timeless Christmas dishes tailored to each region.

A celebration of Christmas cheer 

In the elegant ambience of First Class, the celebrations extend to the world of fine wine. Throughout December, Emirates will debut the exceptionally rare Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2, 2006, a vintage known for its luminous energy and refined depth, with aromas of tangerine peel, apricot, white pepper, passionfruit and mint. Two remarkable wines from the Emirates’ exclusive cellar will also be poured – the illustrious Montrachet Grand Cru 2013 – Bouchard & Fils, among the rarest wines ever served onboard, and Château Montrose 2005, a robust Second Growth from Saint-Estèphe.

Business Class customers will have the opportunity to sample a curated array of wines over the season, from Château Larrivet Haut-Brion 2010 and Château Oliver 2010 to Beaune du Château 1er Cru Bouchard Pere et Fils 2020, Two Hands Bella’s Garden Shiraz 2021 and Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2020.

Premium Economy customers will experience wines ranging from Tenuta Luce Lucente 2021 and Chablis Saint Martin Michel Laroche 2023, or can choose to heighten the festive mood with an exceptional sparkling wine and global exclusive to Emirates – Chandon Vintage Brut 2018.

Delicious dishes for Orthodox Christmas

From 24 December to 8 January, Emirates will celebrate Orthodox Christmas on flights between Russia, Cyprus, Ethiopia and Dubai. First and Business Class menus will feature appetisers such as Olivier salad, lobster tail with celeriac purée and Sevruga caviar, pickled herring, or smoked salmon with crab mayonnaise, followed by duck confit with cranberry jus lié, herb-crusted lamb shank with jus, and a selection of festive desserts including white chocolate and peppermint mousse cake with cranberry compote or chocolate gingerbread cake with cranberry jelly. Economy Class travellers will enjoy starters such as Russian potato salad and Waldorf salad, followed by barbecued chicken with chestnut and turkey bacon roulade or creamy beef stroganoff, finished with peppermint mousse topped with popping candy or classic fruit cake doused in orange sauce.

Festive entertainment on ice

This Christmas, Emirates customers can get cosy with 39 holiday season movies onboard the award-winning inflight entertainment ice, including new movies such as Tinsel Town with Rebel Wilson and Kiefer Sutherland, and Dear Santa starring Jack Black, alongside all-time favourites Last Christmas, The Holiday, Elf, The Polar Express and even Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer from 1964.

An array of 42 Christmas TV shows and holiday specials await, including The Great Christmas Bake Off, Royal Carols: Together at Christmas, Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas, Wham! Last Christmas Unwrapped documentary and Strictly Come Dancing: Christmas Special. For those who wish to get into the holly jolly rhythm, there are albums and playlists of Christmas music from artists like Sam Smith, the Vince Guaraldi Trio, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Ella Fitzgerald and more.

The art of gift-giving 

Travellers seeking last-minute gifts will find inspiration in the EmiratesRED Winter 2025 catalogue, offering over 300 products from revered houses including Armani, Creed, Amouage, YSL, Kilian and Van Cleef & Arpels. The EmiratesRED pre-order service, available on most flights, allows customers to shop from 21 days up to 40 hours before departure and have their purchases delivered to their seat inflight, with pre-orders receiving a special 10% discount using the code RED10.

Merry and bright in red, green and white, Emirates also has a festive capsule collection available at the Emirates Official Store, featuring Christas jumpers, matching family pyjamas and themed stockings, hats and cosy mugs.

Spread Christmas kindness 

‘You Donate, Emirates Doubles’ — Emirates customers can also celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and spread joy with the Emirates Airline Foundation, dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children. Emirates will match any customer donation up to USD10,000 per donation, ensuring your generosity goes even further. Emirates customers can donate in any currency, on any flight, by using the envelope in the seat pocket, or via credit card, cheque, Skywards miles, or bank transfer, either on board or from home.

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

Dusit expands Philippines footprint

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Your Stories
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BANGKOK, 11 December 2025: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has signed a Hotel Management Agreement with Earth & Shore Leisure Communities Corporation, a prominent real estate and land-development company in the Philippines, to operate ASAI Camaya Coast.

The property is a new 150-key lifestyle hotel set to open in 2029 within the expansive and fast-evolving 20 million sqm Camaya Coast development in Mariveles, Bataan.

The signing ceremony for ASAI Camaya Coast was held recently at Baan Dusit Thani, Bangkok. (From left): Detlef Skrobanek, Group Director of Technical Services, Dusit International; Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International; Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Development (Global), Dusit International; Manuel Carlos L Ilagan Jr, President, Earth & Shore Leisure Communities Corporation; Luis Carmelo H Valenzuela, Vice President of Finance, Camaya Coast; and Ronel C Sunga, Strategic Business Unit Head – Hotels, Camaya Coast.

The signing marks a strategic milestone for Dusit as it continues to grow its presence in the Philippines, introducing its ASAI Hotels brand to one of the country’s fastest-rising destinations for domestic tourism and short-break escapes from Metro Manila – just four hours by car or approximately 90 minutes via the Manila–Camaya ferry.

According to the Provincial Tourism Office, Bataan welcomed 1,237,611 visitors in 2024 — a 41.16% increase from the previous year, driven by the province’s rich WWII heritage, scenic beaches, and growing eco-tourism appeal. Against this backdrop of rising demand, and supported by new leisure offerings, residential communities, entertainment facilities, and infrastructure upgrades such as the upcoming Camaya Airport, the Earth & Shore-led Camaya Coast development is well-placed to attract even more domestic and international travellers to the region.

At the heart of this evolving landscape, ASAI Camaya Coast will become the first ASAI Hotels-branded property within a large-scale, master-planned seaside development. The hotel will offer convenient access to vibrant dining and retail areas, outdoor activity hubs, a water park, an 18-hole golf course, expansive event spaces, and the township’s signature white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters.

Building on the brand’s early success in urban destinations such as Bangkok, Thailand, and Kyoto, Japan – and reflecting ASAI’s focus on compact yet thoughtfully designed rooms, energising social spaces, and locally inspired dining and immersive cultural experiences – the new property promises to deliver a relaxed, creative, and community-driven environment tailored to millennial-minded travellers seeking meaningful coastal stays.

Camaya Coast’s natural environment is also central to its sustainability-led vision. A significant portion of the development is being preserved as natural forest, home to fruit trees, orchids, and wildlife, including wild goats, wild boar, and exotic birds. This nature-first approach aligns closely with Dusit’s sustainability framework, Tree of Life. It will support ASAI’s ability to curate eco-friendly activities inspired by the locale and its verdant surroundings.

“Camaya Coast is one of the most compelling leisure destinations emerging in the Philippines today, and we are delighted to introduce ASAI Hotels to this dynamic setting,” said Dusit International. Chief Operating Officer Gilles Cretallaz.

“With visitor arrivals in Bataan showing robust growth, and with the township set to benefit from expanded infrastructure and improved connectivity, we see tremendous long-term potential for creating memorable guest experiences rooted in community, culture, and the natural environment. ASAI Camaya Coast will bring a fresh, vibrant energy to the destination, and we are deeply grateful to Earth & Shore Leisure Communities Corporation for their trust and partnership.”

Earth & Shore Leisure Communities Corporation, President, Manuel Carlos L Ilagan Jr, said: “We see Camaya Coast as a game-changing development for Bataan, and we are proud to welcome a hospitality group that shares our passion for creating memorable, community-centred destinations. Dusit’s distinctive Thai-inspired gracious hospitality and ASAI Hotels’ youthful, energetic approach will complement the natural beauty and vibrancy of Bataan, while supporting our goal of shaping Camaya Coast into a welcoming seaside township that business and leisure travellers, multigenerational families, and long-term residents can enjoy for generations to come. We look forward to a strong and successful collaboration.”

Dusit is already well established in the Philippines, where it currently operates five properties, including Dusit Thani Manila, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, Dusit Thani Residence Davao, dusitD2 Davao, and Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort. The company is now preparing for continued expansion with several new openings planned from 2026 onwards. These include Dusit Hotel Greenhills Manila, an upper-upscale property atop the landmark 50-storey Primex Tower; Plaza de Zamboanga – Dusit Collection, which will revive a classic Leandro Locsin-designed hotel under Dusit’s luxury boutique brand; and the first Dusit Princess hotels in the country at Lipa and Cebu City. Additional properties, including ASAI Oslob Cebu and dusitD2 Residences Cebu City, are scheduled to follow in 2027.

About Dusit Hotels and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts, and luxury villas includes nearly 300 properties operating under nine brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, Dusit Hotels, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.

For more information, visit dusit.com

About Dusit International
Established in 1949, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services. 

For more information, visit dusit-international.com

About Earth & Shore Leisure Communities Corporation
Earth and Shore Leisure Communities Corporation (ESLCC) is a Real Estate developer overseeing three major landholdings totalling 2,000 hectares in the Province of Bataan, Philippines. Its flagship development, Camaya Coast, integrates residential communities with tourism and commercial projects.

For more information, visit www.camayacoast.com

(Source: Your Stories — Dusit International).

World Masters Golf arrives in Malaysia

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 11 December 2025: Golfasian and Go Golfing will organise the inaugural edition of the Malaysia World Masters Golf Championship, to be held from 22 to 28 November 2026 in the capital, Kuala Lumpur. 

This new addition to Asia’s calendar of international amateur golf tournaments will bring together golfers from around the world for a week of championship play, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.

Photo credit: Golfasian Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club.

The tournament will be staged across four of Malaysia’s premier golf courses:

Tropicana Golf & Country Resort – a 27-hole layout with lush fairways and modern clubhouse facilities, perfect for kicking off the week in style.

Kota Permai Golf & Country Club is renowned for its immaculate conditioning, fast greens, and reputation as one of Asia’s top-ranked courses.

Saujana Golf & Country Club (Palm Course) – a former host of the Malaysian Open, offering an actual test of skill amid beautiful tropical scenery.

Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (East Course) – one of Asia’s most prestigious venues, home to past LPGA and European Tour events.

Players will be based at the Parkroyal Collection Kuala Lumpur, offering a contemporary retreat in the heart of the city, with easy access to the courses and evening entertainment.

“Golf has a special way of bringing people together, and Kuala Lumpur is the perfect stage for it,” said Golfasian Managing Director Mark Siegel. “Malaysia combines top-tier golf with incredible food, culture, and hospitality. The courses are world-class, the people are welcoming, and the camaraderie we see at these events reminds us why we love this game.”

Echoing that sentiment, Go Golfing, CEO Peter McCarthy added: “The Malaysia World Masters brings together golfers of all ages and handicaps for a celebrated week of competition and friendship. Better still, players are welcomed and looked after better than tour professionals. The hospitality, organisation, caddies, functions and entertainment – it’s all first class.”

The tournament welcomes men and women aged 35 and over, with divisions based on age and handicap. Each day’s play is professionally managed, with live leaderboards, daily prizes, and an atmosphere that’s equal parts competition and celebration. Off the course, golfers can look forward to welcome and awards dinners, social events, and the chance to experience Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant nightlife and cuisine.

The Malaysia World Masters will attract golfers worldwide with strong support from golfers in Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, the UK, the US, plus the Middle East and

Registration is now open at www.malaysiagolftournament.com 

Thomas Cook India expands forex outlets

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Newsdesk
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MUMBAI, 11 December 2025: Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel forex services company, has expanded its network with the opening of its first outlet in Varanasi. 

This newly launched outlet broadens the company’s access to five forex outlets across the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Photo credit: Thomas Cook India. Official opening of the Varanasi forex store.

Located in Nadesar, the store offers strong city-centric accessibility positioned to serve both local customers and the significant inflow of inbound and NRI travellers visiting the spiritual capital. 

Varanasi sees a high volume of foreign tourists, especially during the winter season, and the new outlet aims to support them with its comprehensive forex services and an exclusive inaugural offer of zero transaction fees.

In addition, the store will serve a broad customer base across Varanasi and nearby cities such as Bhadohi and Jaunpur, creating a strong catchment area for Thomas Cook India’s Foreign Exchange business. 

Key customer segments include Varanasi’s large student population travelling overseas, holidaymakers, and foreign nationals seeking currency exchange.

Consumer-services 

Currency: 26 global destination currencies;

Overseas Remittances: Thomas Cook Forex’s Send Money Abroad covering over 120 countries;

Prepaid Travel Cards: Partners with Mastercard and Visa; specifically for holidays, includes a Borderless Travel prepaid multi-currency card in 12 global currencies.

Thomas Cook Foreign Exchange – India ka Forex Specialist serves over 1 million customers annually through its website, FX Now app, call centre at 1800-2099-100, and 125+ Forex stores located across 69 metros and tier 2 to 4 cities/towns pan India.

 Thomas Cook (India) Limited, Executive Vice President – Foreign Exchange, Deepesh Varma, said: “Varanasi is one of India’s most vibrant spiritual and cultural hubs, witnessing year-round demand from travellers, with a significant number of international tourists. The city also serves as a thriving education centre, home to renowned institutions like Banaras Hindu University and several colleges, resulting in a large student population. 

With a significant number of students travelling overseas for higher education and exchange programs, combined with the holidaymakers travelling to international destinations and a steady influx of tourists, Varanasi represents a high-potential source market for our forex services.

“Our new outlet is designed as a one-stop forex hub, offering convenient access to trusted and seamless foreign exchange solutions right in the heart of the city. We’re excited to bring our full range of innovative solutions, including our Borderless Travel, Study Buddy Cards, and mobile-first forex services, to serve our customers in the region.”

Thomas Cook Forex serves 1000+ corporate clients, 1 million+ active Forex prepaid card users, and over 1 Lakh students studying overseas, using the company’s fee and other remittance services. Thomas Cook operates 23 counters at leading airports in India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.

(Source: Thomas Cook India)

Sabah welcomes charters

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Newsdesk
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TAWAU, Sabah, 11 December 2025: Sabah welcomed a Loong Air charter flight from Shenzhen to Tawau on 6 December carrying 143 passengers and marking the first time an international airline has operated directly to Tawau.

Jointly chartered by Shenzhen Kanghui Travel Service Co Ltd. and Huan Ya Holidays (under Guangzhou Hailang International Travel Service Co Ltd), the charter series schedules four departures from Shenzhen on 6, 10, 14, and 18 December to meet strong year-end travel demand in southern China for trips to Sabah.

Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, Dr Andi MD Shamsureezal bin Mohd Sainal (3rd left), welcoming passengers arriving on Loong Air’s Shenzhen-Tawau route.

All flights depart from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport.

Sabah’s Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, Dr Andi MD Shamsureezal bin Mohd Sainal, was on hand at Tawau Airport to welcome the arriving passengers as the state continues to strengthen ties with the Chinese travel market.

“We are pleased to welcome visitors from China, and even within a short charter series, the interest shown in Sabah, particularly Semporna’s world-class marine environment and high-end island resorts, is very encouraging.

“We value this cooperation with our China travel partners and look forward to expanding opportunities that support Sabah’s tourism growth,” he concluded.

According to Sabah Tourism Board (STB) data, China remained Sabah’s most significant international source market, with 534,975 arrivals from January to September 2025, reflecting strong growth and surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Currently, Sabah is connected to seven Chinese cities via Kota Kinabalu: Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, and Fuzhou.

Sabah Tourism Board’s Chief Executive Officer, JulinusJeffrey Jimit, said the charter series complements STB’s efforts to strengthen Sabah’s market presence in China.

“These flights offer valuable insights into demand from southern China as we refine strategies for 2026. STB will continue working closely with travel agents and airlines to improve connectivity and ensure Sabah remains visible and competitive.

The Shenzhen charter series is expected to bring more than 1,300 visitors to Tawau and Semporna.

Their itineraries include stays at high-end island resorts and boutique water villas such as Kapalai Water Villas, Mataking Reef Resort, Mabul Water Bungalows, White Sands Resort, Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort, Pom Pom Island Resort and other premium overwater accommodations.

Many visitors will also stay in Semporna town to enjoy its seafood offerings and embark on island-hopping trips to Mabul, Kapalai, Mataking, Pom Pom, Pandanan and the surrounding marine park islands.

Shenzhen Kanghui Travel Service Co Ltd General Manager, Wang Tao, said the charter reflects strong demand for Semporna.

“Semporna continues to attract Chinese travellers. Malaysia’s stable environment, visa-free arrangement and diverse tourism offerings make it a natural choice for this charter service,” he said.

Huan Ya Holidays Chief Executive Officer Liao Lina said the company has operated in the Malaysian tourism market for more than 20 years and in Tawau and Semporna for 16 years.

“We are committed to providing quality travel services. Through close cooperation with local resorts and travel agencies, we have ensured strong support for this charter programme.

“Following the Shenzhen series, there is a plan to introduce a year-round Hong Kong-Tawau charter service in 2026 to bring more visitors to Tawau and Semporna,” she noted.

(Source: Sabah Tourism Board)

MU opens Shanghai – Buenos Aires route

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SHANGHAI, 11 December 2025: China Eastern Airlines (MU) inaugurated its new Shanghai–Auckland–Buenos Aires route last week, with full fifth-freedom rights for passenger and cargo traffic. 

The first flight from Shanghai to a major South American city carried 282 passengers. It opens a new “southbound corridor” across the Pacific and offers an alternative to traditional routes via Middle Eastern, European, or North American airlines. 

Photo credit: MU. Check in for the 25-hour journey to Buenos Aires.

The journey, which previously took 30 hours, is now reduced to roughly 25 hours. China Eastern Airlines operates the route with Boeing 777-300ER wide-body aircraft. 

Flight MU745 (Shanghai–Buenos Aires) will depart on Mondays and Thursdays, while MU746 will return on Tuesdays and Fridays. 

Before departure, China Eastern Airlines hosted a brief inaugural ceremony at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, which featured Argentine-themed decor and commemorative gifts. 

Beyond a new air corridor, the route links three continents under fifth-freedom rights.  China Eastern Airlines can handle passenger and cargo transfers in Auckland without aircraft change, facilitating trade among China, New Zealand, and Argentina. 

(Source: China Eastern Airlines)

IATA: 2026 net profit margin holds steady

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE 11 December 2025: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its latest financial outlook for the global airline industry, showing a stabilisation of profitability even as supply chain issues persist. 

Airlines are expected to achieve a combined net profit of USD41 billion in 2026 (up from USD39.5 billion in 2025). While this would set a new record, the net profit margin is expected to remain unchanged at 3.9% from 2025. 

Net profit per passenger transported is expected to be USD7.90 (below the 2023 high of USD8.50, and unchanged from 2025).

Operating profit in 2026 is expected to be USD72.8 billion (up from USD67.0 billion in 2025), with a net operating margin of 6.9% (up from the 6.6% expected for 2025). 

Return on invested capital (ROIC) is expected to be 6.8% (unchanged from 2025). Despite deleveraging and improved operating profitability, ROIC is expected to remain below the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) estimated to be 8.2% in 2026. 

Total industry revenues are expected to reach USD1.053 trillion in 2026 (up 4.5% on the USD1.008 trillion expected revenues in 2025).

Load factors are forecast to remain at record highs, with airlines expected to fill 83.8% of all seats in 2026.

Passenger numbers are expected to reach 5.2 billion in 2026 (up 4.4% on 2025).  

Cargo volumes are expected to reach 71.6 million tonnes in 2026 (up 2.4% on 2025).

“Airlines are expected to generate a 3.9% net margin and a USD41 billion profit in 2026. That’s extremely welcome news, given the headwinds the industry faces — rising costs from bottlenecks in the aerospace supply chain, geopolitical conflict, sluggish global trade, and growing regulatory burdens, among others. Airlines have successfully built shock-absorbing resilience into their businesses that is delivering stable profitability,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.

“While strong performance of airlines in the face of a changing and challenging operating environment is impressive, the fact that the airline industry collectively does not generate earnings that cover its cost of capital remains an issue to be resolved. 

“Industry-level margins are still a pittance considering the value that airlines create by connecting people and economies. They stand at the core of a value chain that underpins nearly 4% of the global economy and supports 87 million jobs. Yet Apple will earn more selling an iPhone cover than airlines will earn transporting the average passenger. And even within the air transport value chain, airline margins are completely out of balance, particularly compared with those of engine and avionics manufacturers and many of our service suppliers. Imagine the additional power that airlines could bring to economies if we could re-balance value chain profitability, reduce regulatory and tax burdens, and alleviate infrastructure inefficiencies,” said Walsh.

Air cargo’s performance is of particular interest, as it has defied many gloomy predictions and held its own amid rapidly changing trading conditions. 

“The resilience in air cargo has been awe-inspiring. As trade flows adapt to a protectionist US tariff regime, air cargo has been the hero of global trade, buoyed in part by robust e-commerce and semiconductor shipments to support the boom in AI investments. Notably, air cargo enabled front-loading to deliver products ahead of tariff deadlines, and it flexibly accommodated demand surges as tariffed goods normally destined for the US found new markets. The critical role of air cargo is front and centre as the global economy adjusts to new realities,” said Walsh.

Travellers’ Viewpoint

Air travel continues to deliver exceptional value to consumers. Average real return air fares in 2025 US dollars were 34.7% lower than in 2015. Passengers are expected to benefit from efficiency gains and competitive forces, which will likely keep the 2026 average return air fares 36.8% below the 2015 level. 

An IATA public opinion poll conducted in October-November 2025 (14 countries, 6,500 respondents who had taken at least one trip in the past year) found that 97% of travellers were satisfied with their most recent travel experience. Moreover, 88% agreed that air travel improves their lives, 78% rated it good value for money, and 87% said they care about their ability to fly in the future.

Passengers are counting on a safe, sustainable, efficient, and profitable airline industry. The IATA public opinion polling demonstrated the vital role that travellers see the airline industry playing:

90% agreed that air connectivity is critical to the economy

88% said that air travel has a positive impact on societies, and

82% said that the global air transport network is a key contributor to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

83% care about the success of the aviation industry

The air transport industry is committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. Travellers are expressing high levels of confidence in this endeavour: 79% agree that the industry is demonstrating a commitment to working together to achieve its ambitious goal, and 77% agree that aviation leaders are taking the climate challenge seriously.

Read the full report here

Vietnam rolls out new routes in December

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HO CHI MINH CITY, 11 December 2025: Vietnam Airlines will launch a new direct route between Ho Chi Minh City and Copenhagen, starting  15 December 2025.

It follows the introduction of flights from Hanoi to Cebu, Philippines, on 2 December and the 22 November launch of five weekly flights between Hanoi and Jakarta, Indonesia.

Photo credit: Vietnam Airlines. Promotions for the new service to Denmark.

Ahead of the Copenhagen launch, Vietnam Airlines hosted 100 Danish and Nordic travel tour operators and retail travel sales agents. In a Facebook post, a Vietnam Airlines representative noted that “establishing the route was a key step in completing the airline’s European network.” 

The airline schedules three weekly services between the two cities, departing Ho Chi Minh City on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and returning from Copenhagen on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It will deploy a Boeing Dreamliner 787 with 312 seats on the route. Flight time is 13 hours and 15 minutes on the outbound leg to Copenhagen and 11 hours and 40 minutes on the return flight.

To launch the service, the starting round-trip fare is USD976 (Kayak — December search)

Flight schedule

VN39 departs Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) at 2245 and arrives in Copenhagen (CPH) at 0600.
VN38 departs Copenhagen (CPH) at 1050 and arrives in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) at 0430 

Hanoi to Cebu

Meanwhile, Vietnam Airlines launches direct flights from Hanoi to Cebu on 2 December, the first direct route connecting Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, with Cebu, Philippines, a renowned  tourist destination known as the “heart of Central Philippines.” Cebu offers a wide range of experiences, from heritage and culture to white-sand beaches, scuba diving excursions, and island adventures.

The inaugural flight VN643 departed from Noi Bai on the evening of 2 December and landed in Cebu at 0330 on 3 December, carrying 100 passengers. It marks another milestone in Vietnam Airlines’ strategy to expand its Southeast Asia network.

Flights from Hanoi to Cebu depart every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. In the opposite direction, the Cebu–Hanoi flights operate every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with a flight time of three hours and 40 minutes. The airline deploys a 184-seat A321 on the route. The starting round-trip fare is USD308 (Kayak search December).

Flight schedule

VN643 departs Hanoi (HAN) at 2250 and arrives in Cebu (CEB) at 0330.
VN642 departs Cebu (CEB) at 0455 and arrives in Hanoi (HAN) at 0735

(Source: Vietnam Airlines and Kayak OTA)

Qantas revives Gold Coast – Auckland flights

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SYDNEY, 11 December 2025: Qantas confirms the return of international flying from the Gold Coast, with direct flights to Auckland on sale now and set for take-off in June 2026.

The new route will mark the first time Qantas international services have operated from the Gold Coast in almost five years, adding more than 52,000 seats annually across the Tasman and boosting tourism in both directions.

Photo credit: Qantas. Flights to Auckland from Australia’s Gold Coast are back in the 2026 timetable.

Starting from 16 June 2026*, Qantas will operate three flights per week year-round from the Gold Coast to Auckland, connecting Queensland’s tourism capital with New Zealand and providing customers with enhanced connectivity across the Tasman.

Qantas will be the only airline offering business class on the route between the two cities, providing both leisure and business travellers with a premium option on the popular trans-Tasman route.

More connections to Apia (Samoa) with flights via Auckland

Qantas has also announced the launch of flights from Sydney to Apia (Samoa) via Auckland*, providing Australian travellers with additional options to reach the Pacific through Auckland. Operating on alternate days to the airline’s direct Brisbane–Samoa flights, the new service creates near-daily Qantas connectivity between Australia and Samoa.

New Auckland Lounge

Coinciding with the route announcement, Qantas is preparing to open its new International Lounge at Auckland Airport on 17 December. The footprint of the new lounge is 60% larger than the previous space, providing capacity for more than 370 customers across dedicated zones for dining, relaxing and working.

Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace commented on route expansion, saying: “It marks a massive milestone for the Gold Coast with Qantas international services returning after almost five years. There’s been real demand for a premium option to Auckland, and we’re the only airline offering business class on this route.

“Our new Auckland to Samoa service launching the same day gives Sydney and Brisbane travellers near-daily Qantas connectivity to the Pacific, strengthening our trans-Tasman and Pacific network.”

Key information

The new route will operate year-round on a Boeing 737 aircraft, three times per week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Gold Coast (OOL) to Auckland (AKL) will operate as QF209, scheduled to depart at 1305 and arrive in Auckland at 1810.

The inaugural flight will depart on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, with one-way economy fares starting at AUD$364.

Passengers will be able to connect with Jetstar services from Auckland to domestic destinations across New Zealand, including Christchurch (CHC), Wellington (WLG), Queenstown (ZQN), and Dunedin (DUD).

(Source: Qantas)

Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro New Year feast

By
Your Stories
-

BANGKOK 10 December 2025: WorldHotels, part of BWH Hotels, announces the launch of its exclusive 2026 Osechi Ryori collection from Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro, a member of WorldHotels Distinctive Collection. 

This annual New Year tradition, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, features beautifully presented dishes symbolising prosperity, longevity and good fortune.

Located beside Ikebukuro Station, one of Tokyo’s bustling transport hubs, Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro is a popular choice for both local and international travellers. 

For this festive season, the hotel offers an elevated Osechi experience featuring a blend of Japanese, Western, and Chinese flavours, ideal for families, couples, and returning Japanese expatriates who wish to celebrate the New Year with authenticity and convenience.

Guests can choose from one, two, or three layers, each representing a different culinary tradition. These limited-edition sets are available for home delivery or in-store pickup and are designed for those who wish to enjoy a premium New Year’s feast without the preparation.

Three distinctive culinary layers

Western Cuisine (100 sets): Crafted by Executive Chef Akira Kobayashi, the Western layer features luxurious ingredients such as Black Wagyu Roast Beef, Foie Gras with Caramelised Apple, Abalone and Octopus with Caviar, and smoked seafood specials.

Japanese Cuisine “HANAMUSASHI” (110 sets): Led by Chef Koichi Honbutsu, this traditional Washoku tier includes New Year favourites such as Yellowtail Saikyo-Yaki, Chestnut Kinton, Red and White Kamaboko, Black Beans, and seasonal delicacies that represent luck and celebration.

Chinese Cuisine “KEI-LIN” (100 sets): Prepared by Chinese Head Chef Masanori Midorikawa, guests can enjoy indulgent dishes such as Sweet and Spicy Lobster Tail, Steamed Ezo Abalone with Ginger Sauce, XO Clam Stir-Fry, and aromatic braised meats.

Reservations and key information

Reservations period: Closes 22 December 2025

Delivery: 30–31 December (specific time cannot be chosen)

Pickup: 1F Cake & Bakery (Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro)

Delivery Area: Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama

Pricing: 1 Layer: ¥16,000 | 2 Layers: ¥31,000 | 3 Layers: ¥46,000

Member Prices are available for JR Hotel Members and Metropolitan Wedding Members.

Note: Limited quantities available; advance reservations recommended.

Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro remains committed to sharing Japan’s festive culture with international guests through exceptional dining, warm hospitality and memorable seasonal experiences.

For more information about WorldHotels, visit www.worldhotels.com 

About WorldHotels 
WorldHotels is a privately held hotel soft brand within the BWH® Hotels global enterprise. Founded by independent hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, WorldHotels offers one of the finest portfolios of independent hotels and resorts around the globe, expertly curated to inspire unique, life-enriching experiences that connect people and places. WorldHotels comprises four unique collections, each with its own personality and style, appealing to today’s traveller. The collections include: WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotelsTM Elite, WorldHotelsTM Crafted and WorldHotelsTM Distinctive. 

For more information, visit WorldHotels.com.  

(Source: Your stories — WorldHotels)

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