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Emirates strengthens global commercial team

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TTR WEEKLY
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DUBAI, UAE, 23 October 2024: Emirates is structuring and strengthening its global commercial team portfolios in readiness for the airline’s next era of strategic growth and expansion.

Emirates’ commercial operations executives and teams manage vital customer, partner, and stakeholder relationships, meet revenue targets, and serve as active ambassadors for the airline across its strong network, which spans 138 destinations in 80 countries.

Emirates’ Executive Vice President Passenger Sales and Country Management Nabil Sultan, will continue spearheading the team and the new structure, which will commence on 1 November. Three of the top six roles below are led by Emirates’ long-serving UAE Nationals.

  • Thierry Aucoc, currently Senior Vice President (SVP) of Commercial Operations in Europe and the Russian Federation, will become SVP of Commercial Operations (West), covering Europe and the Americas.
  • Adil Al Ghaith, currently SVP Commercial Operations Gulf, Middle East and Central Asia, will become SVP Commercial Operations (Centre), covering Gulf, Middle East and Africa.
  • Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, currently Divisional VP (DVP) USA & Canada, will become SVP of Commercial Operations (West Asia & Indian Ocean).
  • Matthew Jones, currently Regional Sales Manager USA, will become VP USA, and report to Thierry Aucoc.
  • Orhan Abbas, SVP of Commercial Operations (Far East), and Barry Brown, DVP of Australasia, will continue to lead their current regions.

Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim said: “Our Commercial Operations teams have a crucial role to play at our Dubai hub and across the expanse of our growing network. As our ambassadors, they have deep knowledge of local market dynamics and a sharp understanding of our customers to delight them and our other key stakeholders daily. By strengthening our global portfolios with these executive appointments, we aim to be a future fit, elevate customer satisfaction, refuel our business, and re-energise our markets. I wish our commercial leaders every success in their new or expanded roles.”

Earlier this month, Emirates announced several new appointments in its commercial team across key markets in the Middle East and Africa. This year, the Emirates Group has made two major announcements on promotions and senior appointments across the organisation. In July it included seven UAE nationals among others, and in February, the Group promoted 19 executives including eight UAE nationals and six women.

For information on flights and to make bookings, visit www.emirates.com. 

Centara names Martens to head Karon resort

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 23 October 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts has appointed David Martens as Vice President of Operations and General Manager of Centara Karon Resort Phuket. 

With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Martens has been an integral part of the Centara family since 2012. As senior Director of Operations and General Manager of Centara Karon, he significantly contributed to the resort’s operational success and strategic growth. His exemplary leadership was recognised in 2017 when he received the General Manager of the Year award for his outstanding performance at Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin.

David Martens, Vice President of Operations and General Manager of Centara Karon Resort Phuket.

“David’s extensive background in the hospitality sector, combined with his unwavering commitment to Centara’s mission, positions him as an invaluable asset during this pivotal moment for our brand and the reopening of our flagship Centara Karon Resort Phuket,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts Chief Operations Officer Michael Henssler. “His deep knowledge of our properties and passion for exceptional guest experiences will be instrumental in propelling this resort into its next chapter of excellence.”

“Joining Centara has been a remarkable journey for me, and I am truly honoured to take on these new roles. I believe that a hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary for our guests,” said Martens. “As we prepare to open Centara Karon Resort Phuket, I look forward to creating an atmosphere where every guest feels a deep connection to the beauty of our surroundings, the warmth of our hospitality, and the experiences that resonate long after their visit.”

Set to open on 1 December 2024, the new Centara Karon Resort Phuket is an oasis for all ages combining modern comfort and island beauty. The resort’s refreshed design, diverse array of accommodation and private villas, and exceptional amenities make it an ideal destination for families, couples and leisure travellers alike.

For more information about Centara Karon Resort Phuket, visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/ckr.

ESG global leaders meet in Shanghai

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TTR WEEKLY
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SHANGHAI, 23 October 2024: China Eastern Airlines, as the sole representative of the civil aviation industry, delivered a keynote speech and showcased its ESG achievements at the 2024 ESG Global Leaders Conference held in Shanghai last week. 

Themed “Uniting for Global Prosperity,” the conference discussed frontier topics such as energy and “dual carbon” goals, green finance, sustainable consumption, and technology and public welfare. It attracted over 800 delegates from various industrial sectors worldwide.

Distinguished speakers included Ban Ki-moon, the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations, Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, and leaders from major international organizations, heads of global industry-leading companies, and Nobel Prize laureates.

China Eastern Airlines presented several innovative products at its conference booth, including the first anti-fatigue wristbands for pilots, security personnel wristbands, and anti-impact wristbands for luggage, each of which contributed to the ESG field.

As the “Official Airline Service Provider” for the conference, China Eastern Airlines also provided one-stop travel arrangements for over 50 key guests from Paris, New York, and Kuala Lumpur.

In recent years, China Eastern Airlines has adhered to the principles of sustainable development, consistently enhancing its ESG governance and performance levels.

As the first user of the C919 aircraft, the airline successfully completed the plane’s maiden commercial flight and has begun regular commercial operations.

(Source: China Eastern Airlines)

The newest Love Boat sails the Caribbean

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 23 October 2024: Sun Princess, Princess Cruises’ newest, next-level ‘Love Boat,’ nicknamed after the 1970s TV series, debuted in North America last week, arriving in Ft Lauderdale after a successful inaugural Mediterranean season.

The new 177,882-ton, 4,300-passenger Sun Princess was first introduced in the Mediterranean in February 2024.

Sun Princess docks at Ft Lauderdale.

Sun Princess sails a series of seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises, roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale, until early April 2025.

After Sun Princess’ maiden Mediterranean season, the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards recognised Sun Princess as #1 Mega Cruise in the US. 

New for the inaugural Caribbean season, Sun Princess introduces the Sanctuary Collection, hailed as the “ultimate in quiet luxury with exclusive access.” Sun Princess serves up 30 restaurant and bar venues. It also features the cruise line’s largest casino, a two-level Lotus Spa, and an expanded retail space with over 200 premium brands.

Sun Princess is the cruise line’s first LNG (liquefied natural gas) vessel. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and features ingenious energy recovery systems for eco-conscious cruising.

(SOURCE Princess Cruises)

Here are the Smart Travel Asia awards

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 23 October 2024: Smart Travel Asia magazine released its annual winners of its 2024 Best in Travel Poll, saying the findings suggest that after “bucket list and revenge travel jaunts, people are once again casting an eye on new underrated gems.”

For the full list of winners and trends visit https://www.smarttravelasia.com/travelpoll2024.htm

Smart Travel Asia editor and founder Vijay Verghese noted that “while hotel votes tend to follow destination priorities — rising and falling in tandem — there are several breakout names this year. Singapore, Bali and Japan dominated, and Hong Kong (and Cathay) made a small comeback, though iconic The Peninsula Hong Kong, a poll mainstay, dropped out.”

Emotional takeaways were at the core of votes for favourite hotels, airlines, airports and destinations in the Smart Travel Asia 2024 Best in Travel Poll.

“Hotels and airlines that performed well in 2024 had a high feel-good factor, much of this based on personal interactions, not hi-tech hardware or polished marble.

“Ultimately, these ratings are about how each experience made the traveller “feel”. It is all about the emotional takeaways. Hotels and airlines that performed well in 2024 had a high feel-good factor, much based on personal interactions and less on hi-tech hardware and polished marble.”

Smart Travel Asia launched in February 2003 as the region’s first fully online publication, and its first reader poll (starting with airlines) ran in 2004. 

Travel Poll 2024: Standout winners 

Best holiday destinations (Asia): Bangkok #1 continued to surge, with Tokyo rising to #2 and Bali dropping one spot to #3. Hong Kong re-emerged at #7 after a few years off the charts while places like Macau, Bhutan, Kochi, Samarkand and Mongolia made gains.

Top cities for meetings (Asia): Singapore ranked #1 followed by Bangkok and Taipei, and Seoul in joint #3. Also featured in the top 10 were a diverse group, including a more buoyant Hong Kong, Danang, Ho Chi Minh City, Dubai, Macau and Pattaya.

Best Budget Airline (Asia): The top spot again went to AirAsia (#1). The 2024 Top 10 List also featured India’s IndiGo (#2), Singapore-based Scoot (#3), Cebu Pacific (#5), the Japanese ZIPAIR, and fast-expanding Vietjet Air (#9).

Best hotel service (Asia): Fairmont Makati (#1), followed by Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, joint #2 with Rosewood Hong Kong, The Oberoi New Delhi (#3), the Park Hyatt Kyoto, and classics like the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, The Imperial New Delhi, and The Peninsula Manila.

Top luxury hotels (ASIA):  The top spot was taken by the reimagined Centara Reserve Samui (#1) with Amankila Bali #2. The Peninsula Hong Kong failed to make the cut, though Rosewood Hong Kong ranked #7 in Luxury. 

The best new hotels (Asia): The Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat (#1), The Tokyo EDITON, Toranomon (#2), and the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort (#3), followed by names like the returning harbour-view Regent Hong Kong, the recast Dusit Thani Bangkok, and COMO Metropolitan Singapore.

HK Express flies to Shizuoka

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TTR WEEKLY
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Mt. Fuji, Japan viewed from Chureito Pagoda in the autumn.

HONG KONG, 23 October 2024: HK Express Airways (HK Express) will add Shizuoka Japan as its third destination from its home base in Hong Kong.

Starting on 17 December 2024, HK Express will launch direct flights between Hong Kong and Shizuoka, offering travellers three weekly services to Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport (FSZ). This will mark the first direct service between both cities in history.

Following the recent announcement of adding routes to Hiroshima and Sendai, Shizuoka will become the third Japanese destination introduced by HK Express this year. 

Customers can fly straight to Shizuoka from Hong Kong in just over three hours. With HK Express’s numerous routes available in Japan, passengers can enjoy the ultimate open-jaw experience, flying into one city and out of another.

To mark the launch of the new Shizuoka route and celebrate the airline’s 11th anniversary, HK Express introduced a limited-time offer as low as HKD110* one way (Lite fares include one small personal item and one cabin baggage) for trips scheduled between 17 December 2024 and 29 March 2025. 

Located in central Honshu, Shizuoka has astounding landscapes and cultural charm. Travellers can soak in the breathtaking vistas of Mount Fuji or even take up a hiking challenge. 

Shizuoka is the hometown of the famous cartoon character Chibi Maruko-chan. Visitors can head to Shimizu to visit the “Chibimarukochan Land”, a favourite spot for adults and children. Shizuoka is also renowned for its green tea. A visit to its famous tea plantations is an experience that will unlock the art of tea cultivation. Local attractions like the Shizuoka City Museum of Art and Sunpu Castle Park offer a glimpse into the area’s rich culture and history. For food lovers, Shizuoka is a culinary delight, featuring fresh seafood, Unadon (grilled eel rice bowl), and a variety of street foods such as Shizuoka oden and Fujinomiya yakisoba, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Flight schedule

Air India tweaks fare categories

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TTR WEEKLY
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GURUGRAM, 23 October 2024: Air India has rebranded its ‘fare families’ across cabins to align them with evolving customer preferences across markets. 

Air India’s fare families offer differentiated bundles of products and services at each price point, enabling travellers to choose the offering that best meets their budget requirements. 

Rebranded fare families
Effective 17 October 2024, Air India offers eight fare families across four cabin classes:

Economy: Value, Classic, Flex 
Premium Economy: Classic, Flex
Business: Classic, Flex
First: First

The fare families offer an increasing baggage allowance and flexibility in terms of cancellation and date changes for a nominal upsell value. They are now available on all domestic and international flights.

Regardless of the fare family one chooses or the cabin they fly in, travellers can continue to expect a consistent full-service flying experience from their origin to destination. Air India offers all its guests complimentary hot meals, a free check-in baggage allowance in addition to a carry-on bag allowance, and reward points to members of its Flying Returns loyalty programme. 

Restructured fare families for Europe and UK markets

Air India has also restructured its fare families on Europe and UK routes. The airline now offers travellers a more affordable ‘Value’ fare option, providing one piece of checked baggage weighing 23kg with limited travel flexibility. Travellers who seek more baggage allowance and higher travel flexibility can opt for the ‘Classic’ and ‘Flex’ fares, which continue to offer two pieces of checked baggage weighing 23kg each in Economy. ‘Value’ fares are available only for Economy class bookings. 

Air India, Chief Commercial Officer Nipun Aggarwal said: “We have rebranded and simplified the fare families to provide a unique product and service value proposition at each price point. We have also redesigned and relaunched market-specific fare families, which cater to unique customer preferences across geographies.

This is a move away from the traditional one-size-fits-all offerings approach, which is becoming increasingly redundant, and it addresses the evolving preferences of today’s travellers.”

Bookings for Air India’s fare families are active and available on all major GDS and distribution channels, including web, mobile app, OTAs, and travel agents. 

NAIA will hike airport fees Sept 2025

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TTR WEEKLY
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MANILA, 23 October 2024: Airport fees at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will increase in September 2025, the new airport operator announced in a Facebook post earlier this week.

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is now managed by the San Miguel-led New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), which has committed to starting a significant modernisation project under consideration for 30 years. 

The new airport operator introduced Wi-Fi improvements at Manila’s NAIA.

The terminal fee for domestic flights will be PHP390 instead of PHP200, while the fee for international flights will also increase to PHP950 from PHP550.

Aeronautical charges among airlines would also increase, resulting in higher airfares. Aviation officials earlier wrote a letter to airline operators, saying NAIA fees and charges have remained unchanged since 2000.

Philippines News Agency reported: “The proposed regulated aeronautical charges “are lower than the cumulative inflation from 2000 to the present, except for the landings and takeoff fees, which are bundled with lightning fees, noise and emission charges, and the recovery of cost for modernisation of air traffic control equipment that would enable the optimisation of runway capacity.

“The NNIC, the consortium led by San Miguel Holdings Corp. in partnership with Incheon International Airport Corp, said passengers would benefit from the overall improved experience with the adjusted fees.”

Airport renovations are on the way

The New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC)‘s decision to begin renovating NAIA Terminal 4 in November 2024, just as the festive peak season kicks in, has sparked criticism from passengers and industry experts. 

The timing of the renovation, set to start on 6 November 2024, comes at the height of one of the busiest travel periods in the Philippines, potentially causing significant inconvenience to thousands of travellers during the holiday rush.

The Air Carriers Association of the Philippines (ACAP), composed of Philippine carriers AirAsia Philippines, CebGo, Cebu Pacific, PAL Express, and Philippine Airlines, says passengers should expect adjustments in travel costs once NNIC implements new aviation and landing fees.

ACAP said in a statement that it remains committed to working closely with NNIC and is hopeful that the adjustments in fees will result in enhanced operational efficiency at NAIA, ultimately improving the customer experience

Parking fees for car owners visiting the airport increased on 1 October. The overnight parking fees quadrupled from PHP300 to PHP1,200, drawing criticism from motorists. However, both NNIC and the DOTr defended the move, saying it would deter the misuse of parking slots.

Wi-Fi improves in the terminal

Passengers at NAIA can now enjoy faster and more reliable free Wi-Fi. This follows upgrades made to internet connectivity by the airport’s new private sector operator, New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC).

Average internet speeds at NAIA terminals have significantly increased. Passengers now enjoy 50-60 Mbps speeds, with peak speeds reaching 115 Mbps. An average of 1,000 users per hour connect to the “NewNAIA” free Wi-Fi network across all terminals.

Passengers can enjoy up to three hours of free access, eliminating the previous two-hour limit and the need to provide personal information.

Emirates flying high with more awards

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 22 October 2024: Emirates has emerged as the ‘World’s Best Airline’ among 90 global carriers in a recent comprehensive and methodological study by Telegraph Travel. 

The detailed ranking and ratings were calculated using more than 30 criteria, such as punctuality, baggage allowance, route network, quality of home airport, age of fleet, value of rewards programme, and tastiness of in-flight meals. The results were calculated referencing data from more than 18 independent and international awards, readers polls, rating websites, and expert reviews.

Described as a ‘worthy winner,’ the study announced that Emirates ‘ticks nearly every box, from baggage allowance to punctuality. It is the airline that operates the largest number of double-decker Airbus A380s, the jet that passengers love best – because it offers the most space and legroom in all cabins, including economy. 

The article adds: “Premium economy on its A380s is the best in the sky. Business class never disappoints and comes with a chauffeur to drive you to and from the airport, which is increasingly a rarity. First class has the finest wine list of any carrier – and showers. Its route network is also one of the biggest: 140 cities in 77 countries. It was voted the best long-haul carrier in the world by 30,000 Telegraph Travel readers.”

The independent methodology for the study included 90 airlines, selected for the number of annual passengers carried and points were awarded based on each carrier’s performance across a range of criteria, including reliability, connectivity, luggage rules, inflight experience, average age of fleet, quality of home airport, value of rewards programme, safety, heritage, quality of lounges as well as multiple readers polls and rankings from Apex to Airline Ratings, Skytrax to TrustPilot reviews and more. The full breakdown of the results can be found here.

So far in 2024, Emirates has received an additional 19 awards and recognitions from a wide array of sources across the globe, including seven accolades at the Skytrax World Airline Awards in June for World’s Best Airline Inflight Entertainment, Best First Class Airline Comfort Amenities, Best First Class Airline in the Middle East, Best First Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East, Most Family Friendly Airline in the Middle East, Best Premium Economy Class Airline in the Middle East and Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East.For information on flights or to make a booking, visit www.emirates.com.

Conde Nast names Langkawi in Asia’s top four 

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TTR WEEKLY
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LANGKAWI, 22 October 2024: Langkawi, renowned for its 99 magical islands, has again captured global recognition by securing the fourth spot in the Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards 2024’s Top 10 Best Islands in Asia. 

Voted by discerning travellers worldwide, the accolade confirms the success of the Naturally Langkawi campaign, which presents the enchanting island’s rare combination of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and mystical landscapes. 

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As a testament to its vast natural wonders, Langkawi has been gazetted as a UNESCO Global Geopark, an internationally recognised reserve showcasing millions of years of geological history. Its stunning environment, from towering limestone formations to meandering mangroves, makes it a natural wonder and a sanctuary for unforgettable retreats.

Harmonious Blend of Nature and Luxury

Langkawi’s charm extends beyond its stunning landscapes. It offers a variety of luxury hotels and resorts that cater to discerning travellers. Each property provides remarkable experiences, blending world-class hospitality with the island’s breathtaking natural surroundings. Whether visitors seek serene retreats immersed in nature or indulgent stays with luxurious amenities, Langkawi offers the perfect setting to unwind and explore the island’s untouched beauty.

The island has continued to grow, striking the perfect balance between preserving its traditional allure while introducing new attractions. Notable highlights include the world-famous SkyCab, on top of which stands the majestic Eagle’s Nest which offers panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, and the newly launched Dream Forest, bringing an artistic touch to its rich cultural scene.

Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) CEO Dato’ Haslina Abdul Hamid commented: “Langkawi’s recognition in the Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards is remarkable, reflecting our dedication to sustainable tourism and preserving the unique UNESCO Geopark. This accolade, voted by travellers, reinforces Langkawi’s position as a leading global destination, and we are excited to continue welcoming visitors from around the world.”

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The Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards stand out globally as a coveted recognition. They are voted by travellers who have personally experienced the destinations, making these awards a true reflection of global favourites. Langkawi’s place at #4 in Asia underscores its appeal and its rise to prominence among the best islands in the world.

This year, Langkawi joins an elite list of Asian islands, including Boracay, Phuket, Palawan, and Bali. Its position in the Top 10 solidifies its standing among these iconic destinations, showcasing its unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious amenities.

Naturally Langkawi: A Glimpse into the Future

As a UNESCO Global Geopark committed to sustainable tourism, Langkawi continues to enchant visitors with its natural beauty, history, and culture blend. From its serene waterfalls to its crystal-clear waters, Langkawi is an island where every experience feels magical. Whether travellers seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Langkawi promises an unforgettable retreat.

For more information on Langkawi visit: www.naturallylangkawi.my
https://www.langkawigeopark.com.my/

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