GURUGRAM, India, 6 January 2025: Air India has appointed Rogers Aviation as its General Sales Agent (GSA) for passenger business in Mauritius.
Rogers Aviation will manage Air India’s reservations and ticketing, support marketing efforts, and provide passenger sales support in Mauritius. The partnership offers seamless services to travel agents and customers in the Indian Ocean archipelago, strengthening the growing passenger traffic between India and Mauritius and beyond.
Photo credit: ILMAURICE. Rogers Aviation CEO Alexandre Faydherbe (right) and Managing Director Soorya Ramchurn-Oogarah.
“We are delighted to be appointed as the GSA for Air India in Mauritius. This partnership underscores our commitment to providing exceptional travel solutions and solidifies our position as a leading travel and aviation services provider in the Indian Ocean and Sub-Saharan Africa region”, said Rogers Aviation CEO Alexandre Faydherbe.
Rogers Aviation Managing Director Soorya Ramchurn-Oogarah added: “This appointment marks an important milestone for Rogers Aviation. We are committed to innovation and growth, and this partnership will allow us to continue to move forward.”
Air India operates five weekly flights to Mauritius from Mumbai, offering convenient transfers to flights across India and beyond via the airline’s Mumbai hub.
Last month, Air India confirmed an order for 100 Airbus aircraft, in addition to its orders for 470 aircraft, with Airbus and Boeing announced earlier in 2024.
PENANG, Malaysia, 6 January 2025: China’s Loong Air launched twice weekly direct flights between Xi’an, China, and Penang, Malaysia, on 30 December, with the low-cost airline quoting a roundtrip fare starting at USD277.
Flights are scheduled every Monday and Friday using a 170-seat A321 with a flight time of five hours and 20 minutes.
Photo credit: Zhejiang Loong Airlines Co.
Flight schedule
Flight GJ8305 departs Xi’an (XIY) at 1340 and arrives in Penang (PEN) at 1900. Flight GJ8306 departs Penang (PEN) at 2000 and arrives in Xi’an (XIY) at 0050 (plus a day).
Tourism Malaysia Deputy Chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin welcomed the new route connecting Xi’an and Penang, saying it was “another important addition to Penang’s international air network, following the recent introduction of a direct flight from Shanghai Pudong to Penang by Shanghai Airlines last August.”
Bernama noted that the “launch of the Xi’an-Penang direct flight was the result of efforts by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who visited China in 2023 and 2024 to persuade Loong Air to launch direct flights to Malaysia.”
Zhejiang Loong Airlines Company operates its main hub at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGN). Its international services include flights to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines (Kalibo) and Thailand (Bangkok and Pattaya).
MANILA, 6 January 2025: Provisional visitor arrivals data released by the Philippines Department of Tourism for January to mid-December 2024 showed the country welcomed 5,646,351 visitors, well below DOT’s 7.7 million target for the year.
The top 10 source markets delivering visit arrivals to the Philippines are South Korea, the USA, Japan, China, Australia, Canada, Taiwan, Singapore, the UK and Malaysia.
Photo credit: DOT. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
But Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, in an end-of-the-year media briefing, shifted the spotlight to other positive indicators, saying they more accurately reflected the robust strengths and sustainability of the country’s tourism industry.
She pointed to the resounding success of the Philippine tourism industry as it earned PHP712 billion in estimated visitor receipts from 1 January to 15 December 2024, representing a 119% recovery rate compared with the pre-Covid 2019 performance of PHP600 billion. During 2023, estimated tourism receipts reached PHP697 billion.
While the traditional practice of measuring tourism’s success by year-end is through tourist arrivals, Frasco said she encouraged a wider perspective encompassing the “numbers that matter.”
“Visitor receipts, tourism spend, length of stay and tourism employment drive our economy and employ our people, and in all of these numbers, the Philippines is performing exceptionally well,” she emphasised.
Citing a report from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the Tourism Secretary underscored the positive yield in tourism revenues and the importance of attracting more tourists to stay longer in the Philippines.
Independent data from WTTC, which explored comparative tourism spending per capita in the ASEAN 10-country bloc, revealed that international tourists visiting the Philippines spend at least USD2,073 per capita.
“Therefore, beyond quantity, we are attracting quality, yielding more revenues for our stakeholders, (and) more jobs for our people. And as we have focused on elevating the quality of tourism in the Philippines and diversifying our tourism products, tourists are staying longer in the Philippines,” she said.
As for the length of stay compared to the average of nine nights in 2019, tourists now stay an average of over 11 nights in the country.
WTTC data also shows that 70% of tourists coming to the country are repeat visitors.
“Tourists have come to Love the Philippines — they are higher spenders. They stay longer and make repeat visits to our country,” she told the media briefing.
Regarding employment, the tourism chief shared that the tourism industry also delivered massive figures for the first quarter of 2024.
Based on the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) April 2024 Labour Force Survey, 16.4 million or 34.11% of the country’s overall employment came from direct and indirect tourism employment, which involves providing goods or services to foreign tourists, local visitors, or tourism-related businesses.
Among the Philippine regions, Region 4A (Calabarzon) had the highest employment in tourism at 2.92 million, followed by the National Capital Region (NCR) at 2.80 million and Region 3 (Central Luzon) at 2.49 million. Region 7 (Central Visayas) and Region 6 (Western Visayas) came fourth and fifth, delivering 1.57 million and 1.07 million, respectively.
“These figures highlight the pivotal role of tourism in generating livelihood and uplifting communities nationwide and certainly show the impact of Philippine tourism,” Frasco concluded.
PHNOM PENH, 6 January 2025: Cambodia Angkor Air rebranded on 1 January to Air Cambodia and announced a new daily service linking Phnom Penh and Bangkok, effective 17 February, an Asian Trails newsletter reported last week.
The airline’s website and Facebook confirmed sales were open for the new daily service to Bangkok, quoting a one-way fare at USD79 and USD143 for a roundtrip. However, nothing was posted about the rebranding on the airline’s website or social media. The airline’s information and sales channels focused on resuming flights to Bangkok using an A320 on the route.
Flight schedule
Morning departures: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri and Sun:
Flight K6722 departs Phnom Penh (PNH) at 0950 and arrives in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) at 1100. Flight K6723 departs Bangkok (BKK) at 1200 and arrives in Phnom Penh (PNH) at 1310
Midday departures: Tue and Sat
Flight K6722 departs Phnom Penh (PNH) at 1205 and arrives in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) at 1310. Flight K6723 departs Bangkok (BKK) at 1415 and arrives in Phnom Penh (PNH) at 1535.
The aviation blog Kucinta Setia posted last week that it was not known when the new brand and livery would appear on its A320 and A321 aircraft. The airline has signed a lease deal for three A320s from BOC Aviation, due for delivery in the summer of 2025. The airline’s fleet comprises two A320s, one A321 and two ATR72-500s.
Cambodia’s government is the airline’s major shareholder, with the second largest stake (28%) held by China’s Xing Gang Investment Group.
Meanwhile, the airline confirms that from 16 January to 16 February 2025, it will increase flights between Phnom Penh and Hong Kong from three to five weekly to coincide with the Chinese New Year celebration (28 January to 4 February).
Flight Schedule: Hong Kong
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday：
Flight K6680 departs Phnom Penh (PNH) at 1655 and arrives in Hong Kong (HKG) at 2025. Flight K6681 departs Hong Kong (HKG) at 2125 and arrives in Phnom Penh at 2255
Thursday and Sunday：
Flight K6680 departs Phnom Penh at 0725 and arrives in Hong Kong (HKG) at 1055. Flight K6681 departs Hong Kong at 1155 and arrives in Phnom Penh at 1325.
BANGKOK, 23 December 2024: BWH Hotels, a global hospitality network comprised of WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, continues to expand its footprint in the Philippines with the relaunch of Best Western Plus Hotel Subic.
Part of the BWH Hotels’ portfolio since its opening in 2018, Best Western Plus Hotel Subic will return to the group on 31 March 2025, following an extensive renovation that will re-establish it as one of the leading places to stay in Subic.
Nestled on the west coast of Luzon, this freeport zone is a popular destination for business and leisure travellers alike, with sandy beaches and various attractions. Clark International Airport is just 50 km away, and Manila is a 2.5-hour car drive.
Upon reopening, Best Western Plus Hotel Subic will feature a collection of contemporary rooms and suites, a sea-facing rooftop pool and deck, a well-equipped fitness centre, and a choice of two restaurants. The hotel’s dedicated events hall sets the stage for business and social gatherings, including weddings.
Best Western Plus Hotel Subic will join BWH Hotels’ existing portfolio of eight hotels and resorts in the Philippines across a wide range of vibrant cities and resort destinations. The Best Western Plus® brand is already well known and loved among the country’s travellers, with four properties currently operating in the Philippines.
MUMBAI, India, 23 December 2024: Four Points by Sheraton, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has confirmed the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Nashik, marking the debut of the Four Points by Sheraton brand in Nashik, a destination famous for its vineyards.
The 125-room hotel, located a 30-minute car drive (21.4) from Nashik International Airport, named Shreyas Aranol as General Manager.
The city is one of India’s oldest and holiest cities, rooted in Ramayana lore with its historic bathing ghats (riverside steps) and intricately carved stone temples. Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the biodiversity of the Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds nestled along the Godavari River. For adventure seekers, the exhilarating trek to Anjaneri Hill and a stop by the serene waters of Gangapur Dam provide a tranquil setting for picnics.
Nashik, a city in the Indian state of Maharashtra, is known for several cultural and natural attractions, plus its vineyards.
Religious: It’s one of the four cities hosting the massive Sinhastha Kumbh Mela, a Hindu pilgrimage every 12 years.
Historical: It’s believed to be where Lord Rama, a central figure in Hindu mythology, resided during his 14 years of exile.
Wine Capital: Nashik boasts numerous vineyards and wineries, producing a significant portion of India’s wine.
Natural Beauty: The city is surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills, offering scenic landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
PENANG, 23 December 2024: Penang welcomed IndiGo’s inaugural direct daily flights connecting Chennai, India, to Penang, Malaysia, on Saturday (21 December), marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between the two cities.
The first flight departed Chennai International Airport at 0215 (IST) and arrived at Penang International Airport at 0830. The return flight is departed Penang at 0930 and landed in Chennai, India, at1030.
The low-cost airline assigned an A320 with a seating capacity of 186 passengers to the route.
During a press conference to mark the inaugural flight, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy
YB Wong Hon Wai commented: “This direct flight from Chennai to Penang is a pivotal development that strengthens the bonds between our two cities. It creates fresh opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, paving the way for a future of mutual growth and collaboration.”
Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) CEO Ashwin Gunasekeran highlighted the potential for the business events.
“This new route opens up exciting prospects for business travel and events, enhancing Penang’s offerings as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. The connectivity will undoubtedly attract more Indian delegates and stakeholders, contributing to the growth of our business events industry.”
India is one of Penang’s key source markets, with Chennai being a significant aviation hub. Indigo passengers can connect with Malaysia Airlines’ domestic flights or join flights to Bangkok, Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong following their stay on Penang Island.
Chennai’s strategic location will also serve as a vital connecting hub for passengers from other major Indian cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai travelling to Penang. Expanded access simplifies travel logistics for Indian travellers and enhances Penang’s appeal as a prime destination for leisure and business, tapping into a broader segment of India’s growing outbound tourism market.
SINGAPORE, 23 December 2024: Emirates has officially launched its new Travel Store in Karachi, making it the airline’s first experiential retail concept to be rolled out in West Asia.
Located in the Sky Tower, Karachi Towers, on Abdul Sattar Edhi Avenue in Clifton, the 183 sqm store offers experiences grounded in technology and support from dedicated teams.
The Karachi store was officially inaugurated last week by Emirates’ Senior Vice President for Commercial Operations, West Asia and Indian Ocean Essa Sulaiman Ahmad.
Highlighting the significance of Emirates’ first experiential store in Karachi, Essa Sulaiman Ahmad said: “The Emirates Travel Store is a place where travellers can discover all of our incredible products and services, and we’re proud to bring our immersive experiences to Karachi. This innovative retail concept reflects Emirates’ dedication to enhancing every aspect of the customer journey, offering them a unique glimpse of the Emirates experience and more, as well as all of the exciting destinations on offer. This is coupled with personalised service and exceptional support from our teams.
Personalised travel experiences
The Emirates Travel Store lets customers learn more about the latest inflight products available onboard aircraft and destinations in the airline’s network. Trained staff can provide personalised assistance, helping customers plan their trips, book tickets, and manage travel preferences.
Additionally, the store features self-service kiosks, a selfie mirror that allows customers to take selfies against different backdrops featuring popular Emirates destinations and a curated selection of exclusive Emirates-branded merchandise and travel accessories, making it a one-stop shop for travellers seeking both inspiration and convenience.
The dedicated customer service counters and kiosks will help customers with flight reservations and ticketing for Emirates flights and Emirates Holidays and with general Emirates and Skywards loyalty programme enquiries. Experienced travel consultants will also be on hand to help provide tailored travel advice to customers. For flight information and to make a booking visit: www.emirates.com.
BANGKOK, 23December 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, invites couples, families and friends to soak up the spirit of Brazilian summer on the shores of Pattaya with a new partnership with Havaianas Thailand, the iconic flip-flop brand that has become a must-have footwear for beach-goers and trend-setters.
Launching this December at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, the group’s newly-renovated Lost World-themed flagship resort, “Centara & Havaianas” promotion will immerse all ages in the vibrant image of the brand, including hands-on activities, an enticing room offer, and even a free pair of Havaianas to take home.
From 4to 5 and 11 to 12t January 2025, guests at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya will have the chance to “Make Your Own Havaianas” with special craft sessions. Kids and grown-ups can come together to customise a pair of Havaianas flip-flops in their own style and depart with big smiles and personalised souvenirs to take home.
Throughout their stay at this five-star family-oriented resort, travellers can spend endless days with exceptional entertainment across four dynamic new water park zones. Volcano Island boasts dramatic eruptions and light displays, while the Giant Slider, interactive Jungle Water Park, and serene Misty Forest each provide unique aquatic adventures.
To mark Centara and Havaianas’ partnership, guests can now enjoy their vacation at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya with the “New Lost World Found” room package. Holidaymakers can book the resort’s newly renovated rooms and suites with daily breakfast for two people, complimentary entrance to the Lost World Adventure Land for two children, THB 1,000 credit at COAST Beach Club & Bistro, and THB 500 credit for the colourful, child-focused Candy Spa all included. Explorers will also be offered special rates for a private speedboat trip to Koh Larn, the beautiful tropical secluded island nearby.
The “New Lost World Found” package is available for booking until 27 December 2024 for stays until 31 March 2025.
If you miss out on the spectacular deal, CentaraThe1 members can enjoy an exclusive 15% discount when they purchase a pair of Havaianas in both Havaianas retail stores and online stores at www.havaianas.co.th.
Centara Hotels & Resorts, Vice President of Brand, Marketing & Digital Tom Thrussell said: “We are thrilled to announce this exciting new partnership with Havaianas, one of the world’s most iconic footwear brands. Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya always immerses parents and kids in a world of wonder, and its recent renovation has elevated its activities and experiences to even greater heights. This ground-breaking partnership will infuse Havaianas’ spirit and style into every stay while also providing our discerning guests with original encounters and countless photo opportunities throughout their holiday.”
Rich Sport (Thailand distributor of Havaianas), Chief Marketing Officer Apiwitsh Shiratani added: “Together, we blend the liberating spirit of Havaianas with the luxurious and adventurous vibes of Pattaya’s most renowned beachfront destination to build an unforgettable experience.”
Get ready to pair with Havaianas and rediscover the true essence of beachside living – where life slows down and freedom takes over. Stay tuned for more as we bring you the ultimate getaway.
BANGKOK, 23 December 2024: Vietjet Thailand is boosting domestic flights to meet the surge in holiday travel demand during the festive season travel peak ending with an extended New Year holiday.
Vietjet Thailand has expanded its fleet with two additional aircraft, allowing the airline to operate more flights to accommodate the high demand from 27 December 2024 to 31 January 2025,
Extra flights from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi to Thailand’s most popular destinations are scheduled — Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. The airline will also offer additional cross-regional flights between Phuket and Chiang Mai.
The flights will add over 10,000 extra seats, making it more convenient for passengers to return to their hometowns and reunite with family during this festive season with an added promotional fare incentive.
Vietjet Thailand offers special fares on these routes starting from THB25 (excludes taxes and fees) for a one-way ticket. This promotion aligns with the airline’s monthly campaign, ‘Season‘s Greetings,’ available for booking from 23 to 27 December 2024 at the airline’s website, mobile app, or the official Facebook page. Tickets are also available through travel agencies and booking offices. Convenient payment options include ‘True Money Wallet’ and international debit or credit cards.
Currently, Vietjet Thailand operates 11 top domestic routes, including flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Udon Thani, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, and Surat Thani, as well as cross country services from Phuket to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The airline also expands its international network across the Asia-Pacific, connecting Thailand with Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Japan, Taiwan, and other popular regional destinations.
