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STB debuts reimagined roadshow in India

DELHI, India, 17 July 2025: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) launched its next-generation roadshow series in India on 15 July 2025, bringing together more than 60 Singapore tourism partners to showcase the destination’s latest developments through an innovative format. 

The two-city business-to-business roadshow commenced in New Delhi and visits Kochi on 17 July to showcase dedicated experience zones. Tourism partners, including attractions, cruise lines, and destination management companies, present Singapore’s diverse offerings through immersive presentations. 

This reimagined platform marks STB’s commitment to deepening trade relationships in India while delivering a fresh perspective on Singapore’s dynamic tourism offerings.

Building on strong visitor momentum, with over half a million Indian travellers visiting Singapore in the first half of 2025, the roadshow marks a key milestone in STB’s enhanced trade outreach. It includes an all-new trade familiarisation programme designed to empower Indian partners to better promote Singapore, as well as new perks for the MICE segment.

First-of-Its-Kind Experience Zone In New Delhi

The New Delhi stop of the roadshow unveiled a brand-new format: a dedicated Experience Zone, where Singapore’s top attractions, cruise operators, and the Changi Airport Group were showcased in a dynamic and interactive setting. 

Unlike the traditional tabletop format, this zone allowed guests to engage more intimately with Singapore’s signature experiences.

One of the highlights was Sentosa’s “island within the zone” – a visually immersive space with seven exhibitors from the resort island presenting an integrated pavilion to showcase why Sentosa remains a perennial favourite for visitors. 

The exhibitors are Sentosa Development Corporation, Mount Faber Leisure Group, Skyline Luge Sentosa, Sentosa 4D Adventureland, Mega Adventure, Madame Tussauds Singapore and Resorts World Sentosa.

“The introduction of the Experience Zone in New Delhi marks an exciting evolution in how we connect with our key markets. By bringing Sentosa’s diverse experiences together in one immersive space, we’re not just showcasing our attractions—we are bringing a slice of Sentosa to life here in India,” said Michael Ma, Assistant Chief Executive, Sentosa Development Corporation. “This is a powerful platform to demonstrate why Sentosa continues to be a preferred destination for Indian leisure travellers and MICE groups alike, and we look forward to strengthening our connections with our valued industry partners.”

Singapore DMC Trade Partner Fam Support Scheme 

STB will introduce the “Singapore DMC Trade Partner Fam Support Scheme” on 1 August, a pioneering initiative to transform how Indian travel agents experience and sell Singapore. This pilot programme supports Singapore-based Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in hosting customised familiarisation trips for Indian travel agents. The scheme aims to catalyse the development of new and distinctive Singapore itineraries, reinforcing the destination’s reputation for constant evolution and fresh experiences. By empowering Indian travel agents through their DMC partners, the program seeks to efficiently scale up the integration of Singapore’s newest attractions and experiences into travel packages offered in the Indian market.

Singapore: A Leading MICE Destination With New Perks For India

Singapore continues to attract significant MICE traffic from India, with the first half of 2025 recording a strong performance across the incentive and corporate segments. 

Major upcoming events include Sun Pharma’s 6,100-delegate gathering and CREDAI Natcon Convention’s inaugural Singapore edition this September, featuring over 1,000 delegates.

STB India is extending its “Just Between Us Friends” campaign to the MICE sector, introducing exclusive privileges for newly secured Indian incentive groups travelling between 1 August 2025 and 31 March 2026. 

The programme features tailored benefits from Sentosa and its nine island partners, along with special offerings from city-wide tourism stakeholders and enhanced air travel benefits through IndiGo and Singapore Airlines.

These initiatives underscore STB India’s ongoing commitment to strengthening ties with the Indian travel trade and enhancing Singapore’s position as a premier destination for both leisure and business travel. 

Singapore Tourism Board Regional Director (India, Middle East, South Asia and Africa) Markus Tan shared: “The enduring strength of India-Singapore tourism reflects our deep bilateral ties and shared cultural connections. As we celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations, we’re introducing fresh ways to showcase Singapore’s evolving story to Indian travellers. Our enhanced engagement programs and new travel experiences demonstrate our long-term commitment to this important market.”

June events shored up Perth hotel performance

SINGAPORE, 17 July 2025: Highlighted by the night of State of Origin Game II, Perth posted its highest June average daily rate (ADR) and revenue per available room (RevPAR) on record, according to preliminary data from CoStar. 

CoStar is a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information and analytics in the property markets.

Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia. State of Origin Game II, Perth.

June 2025 (year-over-year % change)

Occupancy: 77.7% (+8.6%)
ADR: AUD232.56 (+11.84%)
RevPAR: AUD180.64  (+21.4%)

In addition to the jumps in ADR and RevPAR, the market’s occupancy was its highest for June since 2015.

The New South Wales Blues faced the Queensland Maroons at Perth’s Optus Stadium on 18 June, and the market posted its highest daily levels in each of the three key performance metrics: occupancy (93.6%), ADR (AUD318.02) and RevPAR (AUD297.63).

Perth also hosted two concerts of Katy Perry’s “The Lifetimes Tour” at the RAC Arena. On 23 June, occupancy reached 81%, and ADR and RevPAR hit AUD226.79 and AUD183.59, respectively.

Overall, the market’s occupancy remained above the 70% mark throughout on all but four days.

For more information about the company, its products, and services, visit www.costargroup.com

(Source: CoStar).

Air Astana upgrades mobile app

SINGAPORE, 17 July 2025: Air Astana has updated the interface of its mobile application and expanded its functionality to make managing trips even more convenient.

With the new app, passengers can track flight status, manage bookings, and check in online through the “Trips” section. Current offers and special promotions are displayed on the main page, ensuring critical information is always easily accessible.

The app now offers enhanced features for members of the Nomad Club loyalty programme. Accumulated points can be used not only to purchase tickets but also to pay for additional baggage, select a preferred seat (MySEAT), or upgrade to a higher service class.

Upcoming trips are displayed automatically, or they can be added manually.

The updated Air Astana mobile app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.

Ethiopian Airlines launches service to Abu Dhabi

SINGAPORE, 17 July 2025: Ethiopian Airlines announced Tuesday the launch of its new daily passenger service connecting Addis Ababa with Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

The inaugural flight marks a significant milestone in Ethiopian Airlines’ efforts to strengthen its presence in the Middle East and the Gulf region. 

Photo credit: Ethiopian Airlines. Abu Dhabi inaugural celebration, 15 July.

The new route was celebrated with a launch event held at Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, attended by Yilma Merdassa, Chairman of the Ethiopian Airlines Board; Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines; senior Ethiopian Government officials and representatives from the UAE Embassy in Ethiopia.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew stated: “The launch of our new service to Abu Dhabi reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ strategic commitment to connecting Africa with the world. Through our collaboration with Etihad Airways, we are creating more opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism between our nations while offering our passengers expanded choice and convenience. This partnership is a powerful example of what can be achieved when two national carriers come together to unlock mutual growth.”

FLight schedule

Flights are daily using a Boeing 737 MAX 8 with 160 seats. Flight time: Four hours and 20 minutes

ET614 departs from Addis Ababa (ADD) at 2150 and arrives in Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 0310.
ET615 departs Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 0445 and arrives in Addis Ababa (ADD) at 0745.

This new daily service to Abu Dhabi expands Ethiopian Airlines’ already extensive operations in the Gulf region. The airline currently operates over 100 weekly passenger flights to 13 destinations across the Middle East and the Gulf. In June 2025, Ethiopian also launched a new four-times-weekly passenger service to Sharjah.

With the Addition of Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian now operates flights to/from four airports in three cities in the UAE: Dubai, Dubai International Airport DXB & Al Maktoum International Airport DWC (cargo), Sharjah, and now Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport.  

This new route is part of a landmark joint venture agreement between Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways, which supports the joint development and expansion of routes between Ethiopia and the UAE, thereby strengthening connectivity across their respective global networks.

Etihad plans Addis Ababa flights

Etihad Airways schedules a new daily service between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa starting on 8 October 2025 using a 180-seat A321.

Flight schedule

EY727 will depart from Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 0900 and will arrive in Addis Ababa at 1235.
EY728 will depart from Addis Ababa (ADD) at 1355 and arrive in Abu Dhabi at 1915.

Air India restores more flights

GURUGRAM, 17 July 2025: Air India released a statement on Tuesday confirming the partial restoration of its schedules, which were substantially reduced following the tragic accident of AI171 on 12 June 2025.

Its “Safety Pause” enabled Air India to perform additional precautionary checks on its Boeing 787 aircraft as well as accommodate longer flying times arising from airspace closures over Pakistan and the Middle East.

The partial resumption will see the restoration of some flights from 1 August, with complete restoration planned for 1 October 2025.

From 1 August to 30 September, Air India will operate three weekly flights between Ahmedabad and London (Heathrow), replacing the five weekly flights between Ahmedabad and London (Gatwick).

Europe

Delhi-London (Heathrow): Reinstated two weekly flights previously suspended. As of 16 July, all 24 weekly flights are now operating.

Delhi-Zurich: Increased from four weekly to five weekly flights effective 1 August.

Asia

Delhi-Tokyo (Haneda): Reinstated two weekly flights previously suspended, with daily flights operating from 1 August onwards.

Delhi-Seoul (Incheon): Reinstated two weekly flights previously suspended. All five weekly flights will resume from 1 September onwards.

Routes with further cuts and changes

Europe

Bengaluru-London (Heathrow): Remains reduced from seven weekly to six weekly; will further reduce to four weekly, effective 1 August 2025

Amritsar-Birmingham: Remains reduced from three weekly to two weekly until 31 August; to operate three weekly, effective 1 September.

Delhi-Birmingham: Remains reduced from three weekly to twice weekly.

Delhi-Paris: Reduced from 12 weekly to seven weekly, effective 1 August.

Delhi-Milan: Reduced from four weekly to three weekly, effective 16 July.

Delhi-Copenhagen: Remains reduced from five weekly to three weekly.

Delhi-Vienna: Remains reduced from four weekly to three weekly.

Delhi-Amsterdam: Reduced from seven weekly to five weekly; returns to seven weekly, effective 1 August.

North America

Delhi-Washington (Dulles): Reduced from five weekly to three weekly.

Delhi-Chicago: Reduced from seven weekly to three weekly (four weekly in August).

Delhi-San Francisco: Reduced from 10 weekly to seven weekly.

Delhi-Toronto: Reduced from 13 weekly to seven weekly.

Delhi-Vancouver: Reduced from seven weekly to four weekly.

Delhi-New York (JFK): Reduced from seven weekly to six weekly, effective 16 July.

Mumbai-New York (JFK): Reduced from seven weekly to six weekly, effective 1 August.

Delhi-New York (Newark Liberty): Reduced from five weekly to four weekly, effective 16 July.

Australia 

Delhi-Melbourne: Reduced from seven weekly to five weekly

Delhi-Sydney: Reduced from seven weekly to five weekly

Africa

Delhi-Nairobi: Reinstated services, operating three weekly until 31 August (Suspended from 1 to 30 September).

Continued suspension until 30 September

Amritsar-London (Gatwick) (AI169/170): Three weekly flights.

Goa (Mopa)-London (Gatwick) (AI145/146): Three weekly flights.

Bengaluru-Singapore (AI2392/2393): Seven weekly flights.

Pune-Singapore (AI2111/2110): Five weekly flights.

Schedule reductions under the  ‘Safety Pause’ will be implemented until 31 July 2025, and the restoration to full operations will phase in between 1 August and 30 September 2025. With the partial restoration, Air India operates more than 525 international flights per week on 63 short, long and ultra-long-haul routes.

IndiGo seals codeshares on Jetstar

SINGAPORE, 17 July 2025: India’s budget airline, IndiGo, has sealed a codeshare agreement with Jetstar Airways, which gives it access to 14 Jetstar Airways destinations across Australia and New Zealand. 

The agreement simplifies travel for customers of India’s largest airline by allowing them to create a single booking for journeys from India to Australia and New Zealand across IndiGo and Jetstar flights.  

Photo credit: Jetstar. Jetstar A321neo LR

Placing IndiGo’s code on Jetstar-operated routes will enable convenient connections to Jetstar flights departing from Singapore, Bangkok, and Phuket for onward travel to cities such as Sydney, the Gold Coast, and Auckland.  

Jetstar bookings can be made at IndiGo’s website starting on 21 July 2025 for travel from 1 September 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.  

Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said the partnership between the two airlines will significantly boost inbound tourism from India.  

“Australia and New Zealand’s unique attractions, world-class experiences and growing communities of Indian expats make both countries incredibly popular for travellers from the subcontinent,” she explained. “This new codeshare agreement will provide IndiGo customers with convenient access to our extensive network, allowing them to take off more for less down under.”  

 IndiGo Senior Vice President – Network Planning & Revenue Management Abhijit Dasgupta added: “We are pleased to expand the horizons and offer our customers convenient connections from India to Australia and New Zealand.

“This codeshare agreement with Jetstar will further strengthen business, trade and tourism-related travel between the countries while fostering cultural exchanges.

Dusit International unveils ninth hotel brand 

BANGKOK, 16 July 2025: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its global hospitality portfolio with the official launch of Dusit Hotels – its ninth hotel brand – designed to deliver tailored upper-upscale experiences that balance brand consistency with the unique needs of each market in strategic city and leisure destinations worldwide.

Already introduced at three operating hotels – Dusit Hotel Doha, Qatar; Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa, Hanoi, Vietnam; and Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu, China – with another distinctive property, Dusit Hotel Greenhills, Manila, Philippines, signed and set to open in 2026, the new brand has already marked its presence in key markets across Asia and the Middle East, laying a strong foundation for future growth. 

Created in response to the growing demand from hotel owners and developers for distinctive properties that combine international standards with a strong sense of local identity, Dusit Hotels is positioned to deliver memorable guest experiences rooted in the unique cultural and physical context of each destination, all underpinned by Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality.

Defined by a timeless, warm, and welcoming aesthetic, and guided by the tagline “Distinctly Elevated, Perfected by Place,” Dusit Hotels are crafted with the soul of each location in mind and designed to offer superior levels of comfort for business and leisure travellers of all generations. Public spaces feature curated art and locally inspired details that enhance the sense of place, while integrated innovative technologies enrich the stay experience. 

With a target range of 120 to 300 keys per property, Dusit Hotels is ideally suited for conversions and purpose-built developments that seek to balance refined comfort and contemporary design with market-relevant facilities, such as destination dining, multi-functional event spaces, and wellness offerings tailored to today’s travellers. 

At each location, Dusit Hotels has demonstrated its ability to deliver refined, upper-upscale experiences rooted in local character and contemporary elegance.

Located by Hanoi’s West Lake, the 207-key Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa, Hanoi blends Thai-inspired gracious service with Vietnamese heritage, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Princess Từ Hoa, who famously left the royal court to teach silk weaving to the local people, to offer a unique cultural connection through its design, storytelling, and curated dining experiences. 

In Chengdu, the 248-key Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu embraces its natural setting amidst the scenic surrounds of Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park with guided nature-based activities, farm-to-table dining, and sustainability-led programming aligned with Dusit’s group-wide sustainability initiative, Tree of Life, all contributing to a guest experience that’s both mindful and memorable.

Dusit Hotel Doha, meanwhile, with 261 well-appointed rooms and suites, plus 96 elegant apartments in the heart of Doha’s vibrant West Bay area, has carved a niche in the Qatari capital’s competitive hospitality landscape by offering warm, personalised service, a variety of international dining options, and wellness experiences delivered through Dusit’s signature Devarana Wellness concept. From in-room rituals to a full-floor spa, the hotel demonstrates how Dusit Hotels can thoughtfully integrate well-being into the guest journey in a way that is meaningful, accessible, and market-relevant. 

The latest signing under the Dusit Hotels brand – Dusit Hotel Greenhills, Manila – is set to open in Q4 2026. Occupying the top 10 floors of Primex Tower, a landmark 50-storey mixed-use development in Metro Manila’s San Juan City, the 200-key hotel will feature premium facilities, including Benjarong Thai restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant, a rooftop bar, a rooftop swimming pool, and a ballroom with spectacular city views.

Together, these properties illustrate the brand’s versatility and appeal, bringing Dusit’s gracious hospitality and service excellence to life in distinctive ways, guided by a consistent upper-upscale positioning.

“Our latest brand has been carefully developed to meet the evolving needs of both hotel owners and modern travellers alike,” said Dusit International Chief Operating Officer, Gilles Cretallaz. “As we continue to reposition the Dusit Thani brand firmly within the luxury segment, Dusit Hotels marks a strategic expansion of our presence in the upper-upscale space, reinforcing our evolution across the lodging spectrum. This new brand enables us to bring our unique, Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to a broader range of properties, while giving owners the flexibility to tailor experiences to their specific markets, all backed by our proven systems, global distribution, and operational excellence. With a strong focus on comfort, character, and locality, each hotel will resonate deeply with domestic and international guests seeking purposeful, memorable stays.”

Dusit’s global portfolio currently comprises 294 properties across 18 countries, including 55 hotels and resorts and 239 luxury villa rentals. The company’s nine brands span the lodging spectrum from affordable lifestyle to bespoke luxury. Alongside Dusit Hotels, the group’s other brands comprise Devarana – Dusit Retreats (Wellness Luxury), Dusit Thani (Bespoke Luxury), Dusit Collection (Character Luxury), dusitD2 (Lifestyle Upscale), Dusit Princess (Upper Midscale), ASAI Hotels (Lifestyle Midscale), Dusit Suites (Lifestyle Long Stay), and Elite Havens (Luxury Villa Rentals). 

Across its portfolio, Dusit has already signed 14 new properties this year and has over 60 in the pipeline, reflecting strong demand for its distinctive hospitality offerings worldwide. Dusit Hotels is expected to continue this momentum, with strong developer interest in key markets.

“With three Dusit Hotels already in operation and another distinctive property in the pipeline, our newest brand has already resonated strongly with our target market as well as development partners,” said Dusit International Vice President Development (Global) Siradej Donavanik. “Reflecting strong demand for this offering, we anticipate signing eight additional Dusit Hotels within the next two years, in key gateway destinations, both cities and resorts. For developers seeking a refined, versatile, and future-ready concept with proven performance and global support, Dusit Hotels presents a compelling opportunity.”

For more information, visit: Dusit Hotels & Resorts.

(Your Stories: Dusit International.)

Asia’s summer holiday bargains

SINGAPORE, 16 July 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda revealed this week its list of the most budget-friendly summer destinations in Asia through July and August 2025, with Surabaya, Indonesia, topping the list with an average room rate of just SGD35 per night,  

Surabaya is followed closely by Tirupati, India, and Hat Yai, Thailand, in the top three, with average room rates of SGD37 and SGD39 per night, respectively. These destinations offer the perfect summer escape, combining rich culture, diverse cuisine, and picturesque settings for an unforgettable getaway.

Agoda Chief Marketing Officer Matteo Frigerio shared: “When summer rolls around, it’s all about making memories — whether it’s a family getaway, a spontaneous adventure, or a much-needed mid-year break. Agoda’s got your back with deals that let you spend more time enjoying and less time worrying about your wallet.”

The Cheapest Summer Destinations ranking is based on average room rates in the nine popular destinations across Asia, highlighting the most wallet-friendly options for summer travellers.

1. Surabaya, Indonesia (SGD35 average room rate per night)

Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Surabaya offers visitors a chance to explore its historic architecture, bustling markets, and delicious street food. The city is also a gateway to nearby attractions, such as Mount Bromo and Madura Island.

2. Tirupati, India (SGD37 average room rate per night)

Home to the renowned Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati is a spiritual haven for many. Beyond its religious significance, the city offers a rich cultural experience, featuring vibrant festivals, traditional music, and delectable South Indian cuisine.

3. Hat Yai, Thailand (SGD39 average room rate per night)

Famous for its lively markets and mouthwatering street food, Hat Yai is a versatile destination that also serves as a gateway to nearby beaches and islands. The city is ideal for those seeking a blend of urban and natural attractions.

4. Dalat, Vietnam (SGD45 average room rate per night)

Nestled in the Central Highlands, Dalat is known for its cool climate, beautiful landscapes, and charming French colonial architecture. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the city’s vibrant floral gardens.

5. Iloilo, Philippines (SGD47 average room rate per night)

Iloilo offers a blend of historical landmarks, beautiful beaches, and a thriving food scene. Visitors can explore the city’s Spanish colonial churches, enjoy local delicacies, and relax on the pristine beaches of nearby islands.

6. Kuching, Malaysia (SGD53 average room rate per night)

Kuching is a cultural gem, offering a blend of heritage sites, local cuisine, and access to natural attractions, including Bako National Park. Its laid-back vibe makes it an excellent choice for a summer getaway.

7. Nagoya, Japan (SGD90 average room rate per night)

Nagoya offers a wealth of experiences for travellers, from the iconic Nagoya Castle to the Toyota Commemorative Museum. Food enthusiasts can savour the city’s renowned hitsumabushi (grilled eel), while shoppers can enjoy unique finds in its bustling shopping districts.

8. Kaohsiung, Taiwan (SGD90 average room rate per night)

Kaohsiung is a vibrant port city featuring a mix of cultural landmarks, night markets, and scenic spots, including Lotus Pond. It’s an excellent destination for those looking to experience the charm of southern Taiwan.

9. Daejeon, South Korea (SGD93 average room rate per night)

Daejeon offers a mix of modern attractions and natural beauty, with highlights like the Expo Science Park and Yuseong Hot Springs. Its parks and museums make it an excellent destination for families and solo travellers alike.

MMPRC renamed Visit Maldives Corporation

SINGAPORE, 16 July 2025: The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has changed its name to Visit Maldives Corporation Limited as part of the government’s strategic efforts to promote the tourism industry in the Maldives.

In a statement issued by the President’s Office, President Dr Mohammed Muizzu noted that the name of the company has been changed under the policy of consolidating similar types of work in a single location.

MMPRC rebrands and refreshes its logo.

“This name change reflects the importance of prioritising destination branding, tourism marketing, and global engagement under a unified identity, he explained, saying the company had also made changes to its articles of association and bylaws while adopting a new logo and tagline.

“With this change, the company will continue to work towards promoting and strengthening the Maldives as a world-class tourist destination, maintaining that position in a direct and sustainable manner.”

Air Canada and ITA sign off on codeshares

ROME, 16 July 2025: Air Canada and ITA Airways announced on Tuesday a significant milestone in their partnership with a codeshare agreement, providing customers with more convenient travel options when flying between Canada and Italy, and beyond.

“We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with ITA Airways through our new codeshare agreement, which complements our robust network to Italy. This deepening of ties will allow customers travelling on Air Canada to Rome-Fiumicino to conveniently book and seamlessly connect to ten popular destinations across Italy, Africa, Israel and Albania. Likewise, ITA Airways customers arriving in Toronto will benefit from access to 10 key Canadian and U.S. cities across our network,” said Air Canada Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer and President of Cargo, Mark Galardo.

Photo credit: Air Canada.

“With work underway to facilitate its entry into Star Alliance, we are developing significant partnership synergies. This will form the foundation for a strong, long-term relationship between our two flag-carrying airlines”.

“The codeshare agreement with Air Canada is a great step forward for our growth strategy,” said ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart. “This partnership improves connectivity for our passengers travelling between Italy and North America, our first market beyond Italy, serving both leisure and business travellers. Moreover, it enables us to offer seamless connections for passengers of Italian origin residing in Canada and the United States, facilitating their journeys to Italy and beyond.”

Under the agreement, Air Canada will place its AC code on select routes operated by ITA Airways from Rome-Fiumicino. These include five popular destinations in Italy: Lamezia Terme, Palermo, Catania, Florence and Bari; three points in Africa, including Cairo, Tunis and Algiers (subject to governmental approval); as well as Tirana and Tel Aviv (the latter temporarily suspended). ITA Airways will place its AZ code on selected routes operated by Air Canada from Toronto Pearson, including Montreal, Ottawa, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, and St. John’s; as well as on selected services from Canada to the United States: Boston, Orlando, Dallas, and Fort Lauderdale.

Sales of codeshare tickets are now available for travel starting 21 July.

The airlines are working towards implementing reciprocal earning and redemption capabilities for their respective loyalty programs. ITA Airways is also in the process of joining the Star Alliance network as a full member, with work underway to facilitate full membership, which is expected to be achieved in early 2026.

This partnership complements Air Canada’s growing network to Italy. This summer, Air Canada will operate up to 39 weekly flights and over 13,000 weekly seats to Italy. In May, it launched a new route between Montreal and Naples, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Naples is the airline’s fourth nonstop connection between Canada and Italy, in addition to Rome, Milan, and Venice. Additionally, Air Canada offers intermodal rail connections with Trenitalia, Italy’s largest train operator, featuring high-speed, regional, overnight, and international train routes. Through these intermodal connections, customers will be able to travel to up to 30 onward destinations within Italy.

During the current summer season, ITA Airways operates a total of 59 destinations, comprising 16 intercontinental, 27 international, and 16 domestic routes. During the summer peak, the airline flies to 12 additional seasonal destinations in the Mediterranean — three domestic and nine international — from Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate. These seasonal destinations include the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Majorca, Menorca), several Greek islands (Rhodes, Heraklion, Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia), as well as the Italian islands of Lampedusa and Pantelleria. Furthermore, in addition to seasonal routes, ITA Airways has recently enhanced its offering to passengers, providing them with connections to over 100 additional destinations — both across Europe and on intercontinental routes — through codeshare agreements with five Lufthansa Group airlines: Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Air Dolomiti.