Thursday, August 13, 2026
Home Blog Page 146

Australia declares 2025 travel trends

By
Newsdesk
-

SYDNEY, 18 November 2025: Australia’s travel sector continues to gain momentum, with the latest ATIA Travel Trends Report showing solid growth in both inbound and outbound travel, underpinned by strong performance across key Asian markets and a noteworthy rebound in major European markets.

For the year ending September 2025, inbound visitor arrivals increased from 8.1 million to 8.6 million. Strong monthly growth of 6.7% was recorded across most of the year, with January and August exceeding 12%. While travel from China and the UK posted standout annual increases of 15.4%  and 12.4% respectively, the US recorded modest year-end growth. 

Month-on-month, September arrivals rose 10.4%, led by China, Singapore, New Zealand, and the UK, although South Korea experienced a contraction, and the US showed only slight growth.

Outbound trends

Outbound travel also continued its upward trajectory, rising from 11.3 million to 12.4 million trips over the year, with positive results in every month. February and May stood out with growth rates of 19% and 20%, respectively. Travel to Japan recorded the most substantial annual growth of all outbound markets, climbing 24.9%, while travel to the US remained flat and declined slightly overall. The September month-on-month results showed a mixed picture, with travel to Japan, China, and New Zealand performing strongly, contrasted by sharp declines to the US, Singapore, and Thailand.

Across all destinations, around 60% of outbound travel across the year was for holidays. Visiting friends and family accounted for roughly one-quarter to one-third of all trips, while business travel remained comparatively low.

The report highlights notable trends in US travel flows. US visitors to Australia rose 4.5% year-on-year, while Australian travel to the US declined by 0.3% over the same period. September results showed US inbound numbers increasing slightly, contrasted by a significant 12.7% drop in Australians travelling stateside. High airfares and cost pressures are likely influencing destination choice, with Japan, Vietnam and China drawing more substantial interest.

Airline activity

International aviation activity also strengthened. For August, total international passenger numbers increased by approximately 9.5% year-on-year, driven by growth from Jetstar and Qantas. The two carriers remained the most significant contributors to passenger volumes, although their combined market share softened slightly in the year-end comparison. Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand and Emirates continued to hold steady as key competitors.

Domestic aviation capacity also increased, with major city pairings adding around 3 to 6% more seats. Routes including Adelaide to Melbourne, Gold Coast to Sydney and Brisbane to Melbourne saw notable gains.

ATIA insights

“Australia’s inbound recovery has strengthened again this month with strong growth from both established and emerging markets,” ATIA CEO Dean Long explained. 

The rebound from China and the UK highlights the enduring appeal of Australia and the importance of maintaining a competitive, well-connected aviation system.”

“Outbound travel continues to reflect the preferences of Australian travellers who are increasingly seeking value, cultural experiences and proximity. The strong growth in travel to Japan, China and other parts of Asia shows how quickly consumer sentiment responds to affordability and improved airline capacity.

“The US continues to be a mixed bag. While inbound arrivals from the US remain stable and are growing modestly, Australians are clearly feeling the cost pressures of long-haul travel. This highlights the need for increased competition and more competitive pricing across key routes.

“As Australians continue travelling in record numbers, the value of professional travel advice has never been clearer. If you’re booking travel, make sure you do so through an ATIA Accredited travel business as they provide the expertise and support you can rely on,” Long concluded.

Insights are based on domestic aviation data for August 2025, international aviation data for August 2025, and overseas arrivals and departures data for September 2025.

About ATIA 
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is the peak body representing Australia’s AUD69 billion travel industry. ATIA represents the majority of Australian travel agents, corporate agents, tour operators, wholesalers and ITOs. Visit: Australian Travel Industry Association.

Cebu Pacific deploys 13th A330neo aircraft

By
Newsdesk
-

MANILA, 18 November 2025: Cebu Pacific expands its fleet with the delivery of its 13th Airbus A330neo aircraft, making it the largest operator of A330neos in Asia.

The 459-seat aircraft is the third of four A330neos expected to arrive this year. The first two joined the fleet on 28 March and 18 July, respectively.

Photo credit: Cebu Pacific.

“This aircraft enables us to serve more passengers while keeping costs low, which is a key part of our mission to offer affordable fares for every Juan,” said CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao.

CEB deployed its latest A330neo aircraft on domestic routes, starting with the Manila-Puerto Princesa route, offering four flights per week. Daily A330neo flights between Manila and Bohol commenced on 16 November.

The A330neo provides CEB with the flexibility to serve regional and long-haul routes, as well as high-demand sectors. With increased range and capacity, the aircraft enables the airline to optimise its operations while maintaining cost efficiency. Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn 15% less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to their predecessors. The reduction in fuel consumption results in a corresponding decrease in carbon emissions.

(Source: Cebu Pacific).

Drukair signs distribution deal with Amadeus

By
Newsdesk
-

SINGAPORE, 18 November 2025: Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines, partners with Amadeus in a global distribution deal that will place its flights and fares inventory on the sales terminals of thousands of travel agencies worldwide.

The national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan announced the deal on 17 November, confirming its inventory will be available through Amadeus, a leading provider of travel technology solutions. 

Photo credit: Drukair Royal Bhutan Airlines.

The partnership will significantly enhance the airline’s global reach, providing travel agents worldwide with seamless access to Drukair’s flight services. It represents Drukair’s first global distribution agreement with Amadeus, opening the gateway to Bhutan.

Headquartered at Paro International Airport, Drukair connects Bhutan with key cities across Asia, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore, Dhaka, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya and Dubai. 

Through this collaboration, Drukair’s fares, schedules, and inventory will be accessible on the Amadeus Travel Platform, enabling travel agencies worldwide to create flight itineraries and book flights for their clients.

“The partnership with Amadeus opens new horizons for Drukair and Bhutan, allowing us to connect with more travellers around the world, offering seamless access to our flights,” said Drukair Chief Executive Officer Tandi Wangchuk. “We look forward to leveraging this partnership to drive growth and strengthen our presence on the global travel map.”

“Amadeus is proud to be Drukair’s first distribution partner as it seeks to expand its global reach. We strive to offer our network of travel sellers comprehensive travel content, and Bhutan is an exceptional destination that more people will now be able to reach. Asia Pacific continues to be a growth engine for the global travel industry, and this agreement will further power its growth,” said  Amadeus Executive Vice President, Travel Unit & Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Javier Laforgue.

Initially, travel sellers in India, Thailand, Singapore, Nepal, Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France will be able to issue tickets shortly, with further global rollout slated for 2026.

About Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines
Drukair Corporation Limited, operating as Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines, is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Established in 1981, Drukair currently operates scheduled flights to 10 international destinations across six countries in Asia from its home base at Paro International Airport. In addition to its international routes, Drukair serves three domestic destinations in Bhutan and offers helicopter services to enhance its range beyond fixed-wing operations.

(Source: Amadeus)

Sabah proposes Saudi charter flights

By
Newsdesk
-

KOTA KINABALU, 17 November 2025: The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) will intensify market efforts in the Middle East and has proposed establishing charter flights between Saudi Arabia and Sabah following its recent participation in Saudi Arabia’s inaugural tourism summit, TOURISE 2025, held in Riyadh from 11 to 13 November.

STB’s Chief Executive Officer, Julinus Jeffery Jimit, led a delegation that engaged with key tourism stakeholders throughout the three-day summit organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia. The delegation also included Deputy Chief Executive Officer II, Humphrey Ginibun, and Senior Manager (Research), Angeline Engchuan.

Sabah Tourism Board (STB) officials meet with representatives from the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA). (Centre): STB CEO Julinus Jeffery Jimit, DCEO II Humphrey Ginibun, and Senior Manager (Research) Angeline Engchuan, alongside STA’s Umrah Supply & Demand Support Director Abdulrahman Farid Alhussain (3rd left) and International G2G Affairs Senior Director Saad Mashri AlMadi.

Julinus commented that the Middle East continues to emerge as a promising market for Sabah, supported by strong growth in tourist arrivals.

“The sharp rise in arrivals shows growing awareness of Sabah among Middle Eastern travellers, who are increasingly drawn to immersive nature and wellness experiences.”

From January to September 2025, Sabah recorded 3,220 arrivals from the Middle East, compared to 1,498 arrivals in the same period last year.

As part of efforts to enhance accessibility, STB has also initiated discussions with Middle Eastern carriers on the feasibility of establishing a direct scheduled charter route between Jeddah and Kota Kinabalu.

Preliminary talks are ongoing, with the proposed route expected to improve connectivity and create two-way travel opportunities between Sabah and Saudi Arabia.

“STB’s presence at the first TOURISE summit enabled us to highlight Sabah’s unique attractions to new audiences, including the Saudi Tourism Minister, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb,” he noted.

(Source: Sabah Tourism Board)

BWH expands in Pakistan

By
Your Stories
-

BANGKOK, 17 November 2025: BWH Hotels, a leading global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotels, continues to spread its international standards of hospitality across Pakistan with the opening of Best Western Premier Hotel Karim Abad Hunza, a brand-new upscale hotel set in the heart of the country’s breathtaking Hunza Valley.

Nestled in the foothills of the famous Karakoram mountains, in northern Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, rugged plains and aquamarine lakes, the Hunza Valley is an awe-inspiring destination for adventure-seeking families, friends and corporate groups.

As the first internationally branded upscale hotel in this scenic landscape, Best Western Premier Hotel Karim Abad Hunza will enhance the area’s ability to attract discerning domestic and international visitors. The 50 guest rooms offer modern comforts and panoramic views of the valley, while the restaurant serves high-quality local and global cuisine, accompanied by an alfresco lakeside terrace. The wellness centre also offers soothing therapies.

This opening reaffirms the status of BWH Hotels as one of the leading hospitality companies in Pakistan, with hotels now operating in key cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Quetta, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Gujranwala, with more in the pipeline. The majority of these properties are under the Best Western Premier brand, reflecting strong demand from travellers who crave superior accommodation, exceptional service and first-rate amenities, all underpinned by the benefits of the Best Western Rewards loyalty program.

“We are delighted to expand our presence in Pakistan – a rapidly developing market with significant growth potential. The Hunza Valley is a truly breathtaking place, where spectacular alpine scenery, ancient forts, and warm, local hospitality combine to inspire the senses. This makes it a captivating destination for leisure guests and groups alike. We invite adventurous explorers to come and uncover the wonders of Pakistan with BWH Hotels,” said BWH Hotels Vice President – APAC, Olivier Berrivin.

To book a stay with BWH Hotels in Asia, visit bestwesternasia.com and worldhotels.com. 

(Source: Your Stories — BWH Hotels)

Emirates to launch triple daily flights to Nairobi

By
Your Stories
-

NAIROBI, Kenya, 17 November 2025: Building on Emirates’ 30th anniversary of operations to Kenya, the world’s largest international airline has announced a third daily flight to Nairobi, commencing 1 March 2026. 

With the additional frequency, the Kenyan capital will be served by 21 Emirates flights per week, connecting travellers to Dubai and onwards to the airline’s vast global network of nearly 150 destinations.

The new flight complements Emirates’ existing schedule into Nairobi, adding an early morning arrival and departure to enhance two-way connectivity with key European destinations, including the UK, France, Norway and Italy, as well as the US. By creating easier access from key markets, the additional frequency will further support Kenya’s tourism goals, which aim to attract 5 million international tourists by 2030. 

EK717 will depart Dubai at 0055, arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 0505. 
EK718 will depart Nairobi at 0650 and arrive in Dubai at 1250.

In recent months, Emirates has been operating its double-daily flights at a healthy seat factor, underscoring the growing demand for air travel. The third daily service, operated on a three-class Boeing 777, will boost Emirates’ capacity and provide more access to the airline’s world-class product and services, including its First Class cabins, which Emirates exclusively operates in and out of the city.

The new flight schedule has been optimised for connectivity with key flights operated by Kenya Airways, enabling seamless onward travel to top regional destinations such as Rwanda, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mozambique and Burundi. Since signing the agreement in 2023, over 31,000 passengers have benefited from the interline partnership between the two airlines, with a near 50/50 split of bookings, highlighting the mutual benefits for both Emirates and Kenya Airways customers.

Beyond passenger travel, the additional flight will also enhance the transportation of goods to and from Kenya, providing an extra 280 tonnes of weekly capacity in and out of Nairobi. The early morning departure will be particularly beneficial for the movement of time- and temperature-sensitive perishable commodities, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Kenya and the UAE have deep-rooted and mutually beneficial bilateral and economic relations, headlined by the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement earlier this year. Emirates SkyCargo, the airline’s freight division, has played a key role in facilitating global trade with Kenya, operating three weekly freighters into Nairobi, in addition to the soon-to-be three daily passenger flights offering a total weekly capacity of over 1,100 tonnes in and out of the market.

In October, Emirates marked 30 years of service to Nairobi, following the inaugural flight in 1995. Since then, the airline has carried over 6.6 million passengers to and from the country, forging key inbound traffic from South Korea, China, Thailand and Australia as well as ultra-long-haul passengers travelling from the US. The outbound traffic is similar, with destinations such as Shanghai and Beijing, China; Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney, Australia; and Seattle, New York and Washington proving popular with travellers from Kenya.

In 2024, Emirates opened Africa’s first Emirates World store in Nairobi, introducing the airline’s refined retail store experience to the region for the first time. Featuring immersive product displays and an expert team to provide travel consultation and bookings, the store further elevates Emirates’ world-class customer experience on the ground.

Bookings are open for all three daily flights on the Dubai-Nairobi route at emirates.com, Emirates Retail Stores, the Emirates app, and preferred travel agencies.

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

Raffles Hotel Le Royal marks 96 years

By
Newsdesk
-

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, 17 November 2025: Raffles Hotel Le Royal, one of Southeast Asia’s renowned luxury heritage hotels, is marking its 96th anniversary this month with a charity gala and the launch of a new art exhibition spotlighting talented young Cambodian artists.

The hotel will host a charity gala dinner and art auction on Friday, Nov. 24, at its Restaurant Le Royal. The evening will feature a three-course gourmet dinner with fine wines, accompanied by a live auction of artworks created by the children of Sunrise Cambodia, a local non-profit charitable organisation.

A charity gala and the launch of a new art exhibition spotlighting talented young Cambodian artists.

All proceeds from the dinner and auction will directly support the care and education of underprivileged children through Sunrise Cambodia’s various programmes. Tickets are priced at USD96 for two persons.

Earlier this month, Raffles Hotel Le Royal launched an art exhibition titled ‘I Spy – The Magic of Raffles’, which invited guests to look closer at unique details of the storied hotel, a longstanding cultural landmark with a strong commitment to community, education and the arts. The children’s artworks from the exhibition will be part of the auction on 24 November.

As part of the project, Raffles Hotel Le Royal organised an art competition for 25 children from Sunrise Cambodia. Guided by renowned Cambodian artist Chhim Sothy and supported by fellow artists Li Ming Hang and Emmeline Mulder, the children were invited to artistically interpret ‘The Magic of Raffles’ in their own way.

On the recent Children’s Day, five outstanding artworks were selected and transformed into limited-edition postcards, now available at the Raffles Boutique, with proceeds benefiting Sunrise Cambodia’s creative education programmes.

(Source: Raffles Hotel Le Royal)

Thomas Cook expands forex retail outlets

By
Newsdesk
-

MUMBAI, 17 November 2025: Thomas Cook (India) has unveiled its new store in Kottayam, Kerala, marking a significant upgrade in both design and customer experience with Thomas Cook India’s Forex network spanning 14 locations across Kerala.

Thomas Cook’s foreign exchange office in Kottayam caters to a diverse mix of leisure and business segments, comprising families, working professionals, and students. 

Photo credit: Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Situated in central Kerala, Kottayam benefits from its strategic proximity to Kochi, including easy access to Cochin International Airport and Infopark Kochi. With robust multimodal connectivity and access to key business corridors, the outlet serves as an ideal catchment area to drive Thomas Cook India’s foreign exchange business. 

Thomas Cook (India) Limited, Executive Vice President – Foreign Exchange, Deepesh Varma commented at the opening ceremony last week: “Kottayam is a high-potential source market for our forex services, offering access to a vibrant mix of leisure and business travellers, students and NRIs. Our newly designed store, with its spacious layout and enhanced accessibility features, has been created to deliver a truly superior customer experience. Strategically located with proximity to Cochin International Airport, Infopark Kochi, and key hubs like Alappuzha and Thiruvalla, we see this outlet playing a pivotal role in strengthening our market presence across central Kerala.”

Thomas Cook Forex serves over 1000 corporate clients and a million active Forex prepaid card users. It operates 23 counters at leading airports in India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.

Asian Trails promotes MICE staff

By
Newsdesk
-

BANGKOK, 17 November 2025: Asian Trails has announced recent changes to its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) team in Thailand. 

Suriwipa Dalliston has been promoted to Head of MICE and Internal Project Coordinator, while Natanong Maikhu takes on the role of MICE Manager.

Left to right: Suriwipa Dalliston (Gift) has been promoted to Head of MICE and Internal Project Coordinator; Natanong Maikhu (Gag) takes on the role of MICE Manager.

The announcement praised the two executives for demonstrating exceptional talent in their respective roles and making outstanding contributions to the company over the years. Asian Trails said it looks forward to supporting their continued professional growth as they both continue to raise the bar for MICE services across Thailand.

Meanwhile, Asian Trails’ staff in Malaysia recently participated in a leadership training programme designed to foster both personal and professional growth.

The group – including Managing Director Emir Cherif, General Manager Julien Collot, and all department managers – departed from the historic Kuala Lumpur Old Railway Station, travelling by train to Butterworth before crossing the Penang Strait by ferry to George Town, Penang.

Over the three days of team training, the programme blended leadership development sessions on collaboration, communication and personal growth with hands-on activities.

Highlights included a cooking class and dinner at Tropical Spice Garden, a guided foodie walking tour and a heritage quiz at Kesum Restaurant, where the team also sampled the restaurant’s signature satay and laksa.

A visit to The Habitat at Penang Hill, set within a serene rainforest, provided a fitting conclusion to the programme, reinforcing themes of growth, perspective and connection.

(Source: Asian Trails)

Asia Pacific airlines bullish on 2026 outlook

By
Newsdesk
-

BANGKOK, 17 November 2025: Leaders of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) expressed confidence in the region’s continued air transport growth through 2026, supported by resilient economies and strong passenger and cargo demand, at the conclusion of the 69th Assembly of Presidents.

Despite persistent geopolitical and trade tensions, AAPA members registered robust international air traffic performance. International passenger traffic for Asia Pacific carriers rose 10% in the first nine months of 2025, while air cargo demand expanded 7%, outpacing global averages.

AAPA Director General Subhas Menon.

“Asia Pacific airlines continue to demonstrate agility in managing supply chain constraints, with capacity growth keeping pace with demand,” said AAPA Director General Subhas Menon: “However, further escalation of tariffs could exacerbate these bottlenecks.”

The assembly brought together airline leaders, manufacturers, and industry partners to address key industry priorities, including supply chain resilience, the deployment of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and enhancing workforce resilience.

“Stakeholders across the aviation ecosystem must work together to navigate the evolving challenges of the external environment. The assembly reaffirmed the industry’s unity and determination to navigate global uncertainty, much as it did during the pandemic,” Menon added.

Assembly Resolutions Passed 

The Assembly of Presidents unanimously passed several resolutions addressing key industry priorities.

Aviation Sustainability

The assembly affirmed a collective target of 5% SAF utilisation by 2030, called on governments to support fuel suppliers by establishing policy and regulations to accelerate SAF production, and to adopt ICAO CORSIA-eligible fuel criteria. The resolution further urged states to implement ICAO-approved SAF accounting and registry systems, as well as support cost-effective production pathways, such as co-processing.

Supply Chain Strengthening

The assembly called for targeted investment incentives and regulatory harmonisation to enhance regional MRO and manufacturing capabilities. It also supported the adoption of circular economy principles, including recycling and reuse of serviceable aircraft materials.

Aviation Safety

A resolution focused on lithium batteries was passed, calling on regulators to align practices with ICAO guidance for the safe carriage of spare lithium batteries, and to enhance data sharing and public outreach materials on the carriage and usage of lithium batteries by passengers.

Taxes and Charges

The assembly called on regulators to refrain from imposing taxes or charges on international air transport that are not cost-related or consistent with ICAO guidance, cautioning against measures that add an unnecessary financial burden on airlines or which impede sustainable air transport growth.

Outlook for 2026

AAPA expects international passenger traffic to continue expanding in line with long-term trends, supported by a growing services sector and rising regional connectivity. The outlook for air cargo demand remains broadly positive. Still, it is subject to uncertainties stemming from global trade policies and elevated costs, including those resulting from new US tariffs and limited SAF availability.

“AAPA airlines are optimistic,” said Menon. “Our focus in 2026 will be to advance aviation safety and sustainability across the Asia Pacific region, strengthen supply resilience in collaboration with regulators and suppliers, and promote air transport connectivity.”

Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) 
The AAPA is the trade association for scheduled international airlines based in the Asia Pacific region. The AAPA permanent secretariat is headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with global representation in Brussels and Washington, DC.

1...145146147...802Page 146 of 802

Stay ahead with the
latest travel news
on Southeast Asia.

Subscribe now


Contact Us
TTR Weekly (TTRW) is published in Bangkok, Thailand, registered since 1978.
/ month
placeholder text
/ month
placeholder text
Press releases, announcements, events for calendar should be sent to: [email protected]
/ month
placeholder text

Copyright © 2023 TTR Weekly, all rights reserved.