HSBC and JP Lease Products & Services Co Ltd (JLPS) were integral partners in the financing, with HSBC acting as debt arranger and sole lender, and JLPS underwriting and arranging the JOLCO equity.

The signing marks the first of three transactions planned under Qatar Airways Group’s inaugural JOLCO programme in Japan, supporting a total of seven aircraft. JLPS is serving as the programme’s equity arranger. The transaction establishes the Group’s presence in the Japanese aircraft financing market and further strengthens its financial partnerships across Asia.

The transaction represents more than a financing milestone. Qatar Airways Group’s entry into the Japanese JOLCO market demonstrates confidence from a highly selective investor community that supports top-tier airline credits. This first-of-its-kind agreement underscores the Group’s financial strength, credibility, and ability to attract diversified international capital, and sets a positive precedent for the wider investment community.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Hamad Al-Khater, said: “We view the JOLCO market as a strategic long-term funding source and expect to maintain a consistent presence as we finance future fleet investments and growth opportunities.

“This transaction provides Qatar Airways with an important foothold in the Japanese financing market, offering access to a deep pool of capital on extremely attractive financial terms. It further diversifies our funding sources, broadens our investor base, and positions the Group to support its future aircraft financing requirements efficiently and competitively.”

(Source: Qatar Airways)

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A market breakfast, a regional recipe or a dish glimpsed online can make an unfamiliar place feel worth the journey. To celebrate World Food Day (16 October), Agoda shares six destination picks where a meal can start a longer stay.

Chiayi, Taiwan

Chiayi makes a persuasive case over a simple bowl of turkey rice: tender meat, warm rice and savoury gravy. Follow it with snacks at Wenhua Road Night Market. The city’s International Band Festival brings music into its streets at year’s end, giving visitors an evening of flavours and song.

Dong Van, Vietnam

On the rocky plateau around Dong Van, buckwheat is more than a flower to photograph. Its seeds become pancakes, noodles and cakes. Autumn’s buckwheat bloom and festival draw visitors into the area’s food and cultural traditions; market meals can turn a scenic stop into a trip built around local flavours.

Andong, South Korea

Andong’s old market is the place to try jjimdak, chicken braised with vegetables and glass noodles. When winter settles in, look for another local speciality: lightly spicy Andong sikhye, a rice drink traditionally served to guests at New Year. Together, they give travellers a taste of the city beyond its historic sites.

Shodoshima, Japan

Olive groves, soy sauce breweries and hand-stretched somen noodles make this Seto Inland Sea island a destination for curious eaters. Winter is a peak season for somen production, when visitors can see the craft behind the delicate noodles before sitting down to enjoy a bowl.

Chiang Rai, Thailand

A bowl of nam ngiao introduces Chiang Rai’s northern Thai cooking through its aromatic broth and local ingredients. Add sai oua sausage and chilli dips to the table, then stay for the city’s Loi Krathong traditional festival during the evening of 25 November.

Iloilo City, Philippines

Iloilo’s batchoy, noodles in a rich, savoury broth, is a great reason to explore its markets and local eateries. The Dinagyang Festival, which takes place in January, adds street dancing and music. Travellers who come for the celebration can make time to discover the food that gives the city its everyday character.

“Food can put a place on someone’s travel list before they know what else is there,” said Agoda Senior Vice President Supply Andrew Smith. “Sometimes the restaurant reservation comes first; sometimes it’s a local dish someone has seen on a social media post. Either way, that meal can lead travellers beyond the usual hubs. We’re highlighting the places behind those flavours and giving travellers a reason to explore further.”

(Source: Agoda)

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The airline, which has received this award in previous years, was the only international airline to be recognised in this category at this year’s event. 

The 10th anniversary edition of the awards ceremony was held earlier this month at Hotel Barcelo Nasandhura in Male, Maldives, bringing together prominent industry stakeholders, such as government ministers, distinguished dignitaries, diplomats, and senior representatives from leading airlines and their head offices.

Commenting on the achievement, SriLankan Airlines Head of Commercial Dimuthu Tennakoon stated: “We are honoured to receive recognition at the South Asian Travel Awards 2026. Being named the Leading International Airline in the Visitors’ Choice Awards once again meaningfully acknowledges our commitment to serving our passengers and strengthening our presence in the region. This award inspires us to continue enhancing the travel experience we offer and to build stronger connections with the markets and communities we serve.”

SriLankan Airlines operates an extensive flight network with convenient connections to destinations worldwide. In South Asia, the airline operates nearly 130 flights each week to 15 destinations across India, Pakistan, the Maldives, Nepal, and Bangladesh. 

The airline operates an all-Airbus fleet, comprising A330-200/300 and A320/321 aircraft. 

(Source: SriLankan Airlines).

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Through the state’s Heal & Explore Selangor initiative, visitors can access high-quality healthcare services while experiencing the state’s rich culture, culinary offerings, natural attractions, and recreational destinations.

Located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and surrounding Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, Selangor has a well-connected transportation network that supports international travel. Visitors from Indonesia can fly directly to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), KLIA Terminal 2 (KLIA2), or Subang SkyPark Airport, all of which provide convenient access to hospitals, hotels, and tourist attractions across the state.

As part of its efforts to promote medical tourism, Tourism Selangor participated in the Malaysia Healthcare Expo (MHX) Indonesia 2026 in Jakarta from 15 to 18 October as part of the MedTravel Selangor: Heal & Explore initiative, which promotes integrating quality healthcare services with comprehensive travel experiences.

Healthcare institutions joining the Expo included Sunway Medical Centre, Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara, KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital, Avisena Specialist Hospital, Ara Damansara Medical Centre, Columbia Asia Hospitals, KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital, and Selgate Healthcare. 

These hospitals and healthcare providers offer a wide range of medical specialities, including comprehensive health screenings, cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, gastroenterology, fertility treatments and IVF, supported by modern medical technology and experienced healthcare professionals.

Selgate Healthcare also plays an important role in expanding access to quality healthcare services throughout Selangor through its extensive healthcare network. Strategic partners such as Le Méridien Petaling Jaya and AirAsia Ride further support the initiative, enhancing the visitor experience through premium hospitality, seamless mobility, and convenient access to medical centres and key attractions across Selangor.

What sets Selangor apart from other medical tourism destinations is its ability to offer a holistic experience that combines quality healthcare with a diverse range of tourism products suitable for every type of traveller. Beyond healthcare and hospitality, family travellers can enjoy attractions such as SplashMania Waterpark, i-City Shah Alam, Skyline Luge, Monkeys Canopy Resort, and Gamuda Gardens Fun Park. In contrast, solo travellers can enjoy café-hopping, food adventures, shopping, and cultural and heritage attractions.

Visitors seeking a more authentic side of Selangor can discover destinations such as Kuala Selangor, Sekinchan, Kuala Kubu Bharu, Jugra, Mah Meri Cultural Village, Puncak Alop, and The Beacon Resort, which offer immersive nature, cultural, and wellness experiences that complement their journey.

As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare tourism promotion in Indonesia, Tourism Selangor participated in the Malaysia Healthcare Expo (MHX) Indonesia 2026, organised by the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) and held from 15 to 18 October 2026 at Central Park Mall, Jakarta. Through this platform, Tourism Selangor introduced the Heal & Explore Selangor initiative and the MedTravel Selangor: Heal & Explore publication, showcasing Selangor’s healthcare tourism ecosystem, which combines quality medical treatment, premium hospitality, and diverse cultural, culinary, and nature-based experiences for Indonesian travellers.

About Tourism Selangor
Tourism Selangor is Selangor State’s Official Tourism Promotion Agency, established to increase local and international tourism to Selangor by enhancing and developing the state’s known and undiscovered beauty.

Spanning over nine districts, including Petaling, Gombak, Klang, Sepang, Hulu Langat, Sabak Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Kuala Langat and Hulu Selangor, the area is known as an extraordinary holiday and event destination. 

(Source: Tourism Selangor).

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Beginning next summer, Air Canada will launch new service between Toronto and Louisville, Montréal and Indianapolis, and Edmonton and Newark. Air Canada will also increase capacity on the Edmonton-San Francisco route by deploying the larger Airbus A220.

The new routes broaden Air Canada’s US network by adding links from Canadian airports to more US cities. 

Toronto-Louisville service will begin in late April, before increasing to daily service in May. New Montréal-Indianapolis service will add another non-stop US destination from Montréal. At the same time, Edmonton-Newark will provide a new direct link to the New York region and convenient connections through one of United Airlines’ global hubs.

Also beginning next summer, United is launching new seasonal service to St John’s from its Newark hub, adding new service from Denver to Ottawa and Québec City, increasing flights between Washington, D.C., and Québec City, and increasing daily seats between Denver and Winnipeg by 65%.

The new routes build on Air Canada and United’s long-standing partnership and their Transborder Joint Business Agreement. Since the agreement was established in 2022, 20 new routes have opened between Canada and the US, and more than 4.3 million passengers have flown jointly on United and Air Canada. Together, Air Canada and United Airlines serve 10 Canadian gateways.

Building on these benefits, Air Canada and United Airlines have agreed to renew and expand their Transborder Joint Business Agreement, subject to the necessary regulatory approvals. Air Canada has submitted an application to Transport Canada seeking approval of the amended and restated agreement.

(Source: Air Canada)

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Fully renovated to reflect Travelodge’s refreshed brand look, the hotel offers travellers a comfortable base in the heart of Gangnam, close to COEX and the district’s business, shopping, dining, fashion and cultural destinations.

Travelodge Gangnam Yeoksam Seoul is designed around the essentials of a good stay, with well-appointed rooms, comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, a satisfying breakfast and practical spaces to relax and recharge.

The hotel offers a spacious co-working lounge, a fitness centre, and meeting facilities for up to 60 people. Guests who need to work can use the business centre as a casual workspace. In contrast, the guest lounge provides space to relax, with a microwave and hydration centre available for added convenience.

BON Food Service, an established Korean food-service operator with experience in catering and food-service operations, provides breakfast. A GS25 convenience store is also scheduled to open at the hotel by the end of October.

Located in Yeoksam, Gangnam, Travelodge Gangnam Yeoksam Seoul offers convenient access to Seoul’s business district, cultural landmarks and shopping destinations. Just 600 metres away, Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs showcase Korea’s royal history, while Bongeunsa Temple, near COEX, offers a glimpse into traditional Buddhist culture.

Business travellers can reach COEX Convention & Exhibition Centre, Starfield Mall, and Library within a 15-minute bus or subway ride. The Gangnam Station Shopping District offers dining, shopping, and nightlife, while Lotte World, about 30 minutes away by subway, offers family entertainment. For fashion, beauty and café culture, guests can explore Garosu-gil and Apgujeong Rodeo.

To celebrate the opening, Stay Gold in Gangnam offers eligible guests who book directly from October 2026 to January 2027 a chance to win a 24K gold bar through the hotel’s Fortune Wheel.

(Source: Travelodge Hotels Asia)

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Beginning 2 February 2027, Air India will operate four weekly flights between India’s capital and Japan’s second-largest metropolitan area using its Boeing 787-8 aircraft.

Osaka will become Air India’s second destination in Japan after Tokyo (Haneda), where the airline currently operates daily flights from Delhi and four weekly flights from Mumbai. The new service expands Air India’s presence in a market seeing strong demand from Indian travellers and deepening economic, tourism, and cultural ties between the two countries.

The Boeing 787-8 on the route offers 18 full-flat beds in business class and 241 economy seats.

The new service (AI360) will depart Delhi late evening and arrive in Osaka at a convenient time the following morning. 

The return flight (AI359) will depart Osaka late in the morning and arrive in Delhi the same evening, offering seamless connectivity to destinations across Air India’s domestic and international network.

Adding Osaka also lets travellers book ‘open-jaw’ itineraries, flying to Osaka and returning from Tokyo, or vice versa. This added flexibility matters as multi-city travel becomes increasingly popular among Indian visitors to Japan, especially along the country’s famed “Golden Route”, which includes Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Air India is progressively making its Delhi-Osaka flights available for booking via the airline’s official website, mobile app, customer contact centre, airport ticketing offices, and travel agents worldwide.

Japan: A favourite among Indian travellers

Japan continues to gain popularity among Indian travellers. More than 315,000 Indian visitors travelled to Japan in 2025, up 35% from 2024 and nearly 80% above pre-pandemic levels, according to the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO).

Rising interest in Japan’s leisure, cultural, and culinary experiences, along with growing business and people-to-people ties between the two countries, is driving the growth.

(Source: Air India)

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Available to Emirates Holidays customers* travelling to Thailand, the pass unlocks offers of up to 40% off, with no minimum spend.

Emirates Holidays customers can redeem their offers by simply presenting their vouchers and a copy of their passport at the reception of the participating mall or outlet to collect their Welcome Package. 

The offers include shopping and dining vouchers at 14 participating malls in Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Krabi, and Chiang Mai. The Thailand Pass also includes a complimentary shuttle service between CentralWorld and Central Village Bangkok, plus complimentary VIP lounge access at both venues.

The pass also unlocks Buy 1 Get 1 Free offers on a selection of top attractions and experiences across Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Krabi, including Playsquare Laser Tag, Playmondo, Swensen’s, Auntie Anne’s, Aquaria Phuket, OTO Playpark and Monowheel, along with an additional 5% discount on Karmakamet wellness products.

The launch comes as Thailand remains one of Emirates Holidays’ most popular destinations, with bookings up 10% year-on-year. It also builds on Emirates’ continued investment in Thailand. The airline recently deployed its Airbus A350 to Phuket and now operates retrofitted Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft to Bangkok with new premium economy cabins. The airline operates 49 weekly flights to Thailand.

The Thailand Pass is available on package bookings made until 31 March 2027*

*Thailand Pass is available for Emirates Holidays customers booking from the following markets: Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Canada, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon, Malaysia, Malta, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, United Arab Emirates, USA, Zimbabwe.

(Source: Emirates)

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The new codeshare offering will launch during the summer timetable in 2027, subject to regulatory approval. It will cover selected destinations in Europe, Asia, and Oceania, giving passengers on both airlines a wider range of connections and greater convenience when travelling. 

Robert Ludera, Board Member and Chief Commercial Officer at LOT Polish Airlines, and Kittiphong Sansomboon, THAI’s Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), signed the MoU. 

The MoU signing coincided with the launch of LOT’s Warsaw–Bangkok route, opening new opportunities to develop cooperation between the two carriers.

LOT Polish Airlines and Thai Airways intend to develop travel options between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership is designed to give passengers access to additional destinations while enabling both carriers to reach new groups of travellers. Another key objective is to support tourism and business in both directions: travel from Poland and Europe to Thailand and other countries in the region, and visits to Poland and Europe by passengers travelling from Asia and Oceania.

(Source: LOT Polish)

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Australians made 588,490 trips to Vietnam through August 2026, up 17.4%. In August alone, trips jumped 30.3%.

China and Japan are also surging. Trips to China rose 13.1% to 750,870, and Japan is now just shy of one million Australian visitors. Together with Vietnam, they added almost 250,000 trips over the year.

Australians took 12.77 million overseas trips in total, up 3.2%.

The findings come from the ATIA October 2026 Travel Trends Report, based on Australian Bureau of Statistics overseas arrivals and departures data analysed by ATIA. (Reporting period: overseas departures to August 2026). 

Asia climbs the rankings

Australians made 750,870 trips to China in the year to August, up 13.1%. 

India has also increased in popularity as a destination with 622,820 Australian visitors, up 5.3%.

Vietnam was the fastest-growing major destination, up 17.4% to 588,490 visitors. That leaves it just 60 trips short of the UK, on 588,550.

Favourites hold firm

Indonesia remains Australians’ most popular destination, with 1.81 million trips, up 3.2%. New Zealand follows with 1.50 million, up 5.6%.

Japan ranks third, with 989,240 Australian visitors, up 8.1%.

Classic favourites still in demand

The US and UK remain two of the most popular long-haul destinations for Australians, with 678,390 and 588,550 Australian visitors respectively in the year to August. Both eased on last year, while Asia saw the strongest growth.

Seven of Australia’s top ten destinations grew year on year.

August standouts

Australians made 986,230 overseas trips in August, up 1.5% on the same month last year.

Vietnam led the month, up 30.3% to 45,630 trips. Fiji rose 13.7% to 41,950, Indonesia climbed 10.6% to 178,830, and New Zealand grew 6.6% to 120,830.

Travellers can find an ATIA-accredited travel agent or tour operator at traveltick.com.au.

ATIA Director of Compliance and Membership Nina Hedges commented: “Australians’ appetite for travel keeps growing. Australians took 12.77 million overseas trips over the past year, up 3.2%, with almost 400,000 more journeys than the year before. That’s a strong vote of confidence in travel.

“Asia has become the region Australians can’t get enough of. Travel to China is up more than 13% on last year, and Japan is sitting just shy of one million Australian visitors. That’s a remarkable shift in a short space of time.

“Vietnam is the one to watch. It’s growing faster than any other major destination and sits just 60 trips behind the UK. On current trends, it won’t stay behind for long.

“The US and UK are still important markets, with more than half a million Australians visiting each of them every year. Wherever people are heading, an ATIA-accredited travel agent or tour operator can help them plan with confidence and book with a business that meets the industry’s standards.”

(Source: ATIA www.atia.travel)

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