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AirAsia flies to Labuan Bajo

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TTR WEEKLY
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LABUAN BAJO, 5 September 2024: AirAsia becomes the first international airline to offer direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Labuan Bajo, creating new opportunities for tourism and trade between Malaysia and Indonesia. 

Operated by AirAsia Malaysia (AK), the inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur landed in Labuan Bajo on Tuesday morning, 3 September. It marked the start of three weekly flights between the two destinations and raised AirAsia’s network to 28 direct routes between Malaysia and Indonesia.

The addition of this route aligns with AirAsia’s commitment to expanding regional connectivity, catering to the growing demand for travel to emerging destinations like Labuan Bajo. With over 4,000 seats weekly on sale, the route will significantly increase visitor arrivals and generate substantial economic impact for local communities in both Malaysia and Indonesia.  

The airline deploys an Airbus A320 on the route with 180 seats, and it flies three weekly services on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The average fare is USD160 roundtrip (since 3 September).

Flight schedule

Flight AK336 departs Kuala Lumpur (KUL) at 1110 and arrives in Labuan Bajo (LBJ) at 1425.
Flight AK337 departs Labuan Bajo at 1455 and arrives in Kuala Lumpur at 1835.

AirAsia’s Fly-Thru service further enhances accessibility. It allows travellers from across the region to reach Labuan Bajo — a gateway to the world-famous Komodo National Park and the picturesque island of Flores — with just one stopover in Kuala Lumpur, making the journey more convenient for international tourists from Asia and Australia.

AirAsia Malaysia Managing Director Dato Fareh Mazputra commented: “Launching our direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Labuan Bajo marks a significant step in supporting Indonesia’s ambitious tourism targets. Labuan Bajo is one of Indonesia’s top five super-priority tourism destinations, and the government aims to attract more travellers with the hope of surpassing 500,000 visitors in 2024.

“We are committed to contributing to Labuan Bajo’s continued development as a world-class destination by making it more accessible to travellers from around the globe. This collaboration between governments, airlines, and other stakeholders is key to achieving the ambitious targets set for Labuan Bajo and ensuring its status as a premier tourism hub.

“Indonesia remains one of our most important markets, and we will continue to work closely with AirAsia Indonesia to boost tourism and trade between our two nations. Our 28 direct routes connecting Malaysia and Indonesia have flown over 7 million guests, crucial in driving economic growth, enhancing regional connectivity, and supporting the local tourism sectors. We look forward to expanding our network and exploring more direct routes between Malaysia and Indonesia.”

AirAsia Malaysia flies to 15 destinations across Indonesia, from Kuala Lumpur to Kertajati, Banda Aceh, Jakarta, Bali (Denpasar), Medan, Padang, Pekanbaru, Makassar, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Balikpapan, Lombok; Penang to Jakarta and Medan; and Kota Kinabalu to Manado.

Vistara on final approach to merger

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TTR WEEKLY
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GURUGRAM, India, 5 September 2024: Vistara began the final countdown on 3 September, as the airline stepped up the process of gradually closing booking channels and transferring passenger reservations to Air India’s system by 12 November 2024. 

Once the deadline date arrives, all Vistara aircraft will be operated exclusively by Air India, and bookings for the routes operated by Vistara aircraft will be redirected to Air India’s website. Vistara will continue to take bookings and operate flights up until midnight on 11 November 2024.

Photo credit: Aerowanderer. Vistara Airbus A321-251NX

Vistara Chief Executive Officer Vinod Kannan said: “We are immensely grateful to all our customers for their support and patronage over the last 10 years. Vistara and Air India are committed to ensuring that this transition is smooth and hassle-free.”

Air India Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Campbell Wilson said: “Cross-functional teams from Air India and Vistara have been working together for many months to make the transition of aircraft, flying crew, ground-based colleagues and, most importantly, our valued customers, into the new Air India as seamless as possible.”

Vistara commenced commercial operations on 9 January 2015. The airline currently has a fleet of 70 aircraft, including 53 Airbus A320neo, 10 Airbus A321neo, and seven Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Since starting operations, Vistara has flown more than 65 million customers.

A350s inspection: Cathay waives rebooking fees

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG 5 September 2024: Due to the A350 fleet inspection, Cathay Pacific is waiving all ticket rebooking and rerouting charges to ease rebooking procedures according to its latest notification posted on 4 September.

It follows an earlier airline notification that claimed: “The maintenance activity on our A350 fleet is progressing well.”

The airline’s engineering teams have inspected the entire fleet of operational A350 aircraft and identified 15 aircraft with affected engine components that require replacement… Three have already undergone successful repairs.” 

The remaining aircraft will be out of service until they have been repaired and cleared for operation, which should occur by Saturday 7 September.

The airline expects 10 regional round-trip flights to be cancelled by the end of 4 September, while long-haul services should not be affected. 

Following the in-flight return of an A350 on 2 September, Cathay Pacific identified an engine component failure in the aircraft involved. “As a precautionary measure, a fleet-wide inspection of  A350 aircraft was initiated immediately.”

Flights cancelled on Wednesday, 4 September

  • Hong Kong to Tokyo (Narita): CX 524
  • Tokyo (Narita) to Hong Kong: CX 509
  • Hong Kong to Osaka(Kansai): CX 566
  • Osaka (Kansai) to Hong Kong: CX 597 / CX 503
  • Hong Kong to Taipei: CX 464 / CX 466 / CX 494
  • Taipei to Hong Kong: CX 469 / CX 461 / CX 495
  • Hong Kong to Singapore: CX 659
  • Singapore to Hong Kong: CX 714 / CX 710 / CX 658 / CX 692
  • Hong Kong to Bangkok: CX 705
  • Bangkok to Hong Kong: CX 750
  • Hong Kong to Beijing: CX 332
  • Beijing to Hong Kong: CX 331
  • Hong Kong to Shanghai(Pudong): CX 368 / CX 360
  • Shanghai (Pudong) to Hong Kong: CX 367 / CX 369
  • Hong Kong to Kuala Lumpur: CX 723
  • Kuala Lumpur to Hong Kong: CX 722
  • Hong Kong to Kaohsiung: CX 432
  • Kaohsiung to Hong Kong: CX 431
  • Hong Kong to Manila: CX 919
  • Manila to Hong Kong: CX 918
  • Hong Kong to Seoul (Incheon): CX 416

Thursday, 5 September cancellations

  • Seoul (Incheon) to Hong Kong: CX 417

Tour East posts management changes

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 4 September 2024: Tour East Group announces a leadership change as Kei Satoh takes over as Managing Director and General Manager of Tour East Singapore (1996) Pte Ltd, effective 1 September.

He assumes the leadership at the Singapore office following Dominic Ong’s departure to pursue a new career path. 

Kei Satoh takes on a dual role.

In addition to his role in Singapore, Satoh will continue to serve as Head of Tour East Group. 

“These dual roles will enable us to further consolidate our global sales efforts while maintaining our commitment to excellence in all Tour East destinations,” the company press statement explained.

Satoh is no stranger to Singapore, having spent six years in the Lion City before moving to Thailand in 2018 to lead Tour East Thailand.

Kei Satoh (Back row: Fourth from left) with Tour East’s Singapore team.

His extensive experience with Tour East’s key source markets will be invaluable in driving growth and ensuring regional operational excellence.

“We are confident that under Satoh’s leadership, Tour East Singapore will reach new heights and continue to be successful and innovative,” the statement concluded.

Centara anchors East Coast Escape

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK 4 September 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts announces its exclusive ‘East Coast Escape’ offer, inviting travellers to explore the diverse beauty of Thailand’s eastern coast with unprecedented savings at participating hotels in Pattaya, Rayong, Trat and the island of Koh Chang.

From today to 20 November 2024, CentaraThe1 members can book stays until 20 December 2024 at selected properties along Thailand’s eastern shores, enjoying 25% discounts on eligible rate plans at Centara Nova Hotel Pattaya and COSI Pattaya Wong Amat Beach. This limited-time offer represents an additional 10% savings on top of usual member privileges.

Members can also enjoy an increased 20% discount for stays at Centara Pattaya Hotel, Centara Chaan Talay Resort & Villas Trat, Centara Sonrisa Residences & Suites Sriracha, Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort, and Centara Q Resort Rayong. Each property offers unparalleled service, modern amenities, and Centara’s signature warm Thai hospitality.

Whether seeking a fun-filled family holiday, a romantic retreat, or a coastal adventure with friends, the ‘East Coast Escape’ caters to all travellers in one of Thailand’s most beautiful regions. 

Guests are invited to discover the array of sophisticated room types, delightful restaurants and bars, contemporary facilities, outdoor swimming pools and water playgrounds, and more that make Centara ‘The Place to Be’.

CentaraThe1 members can sign in to their online accounts before booking to take advantage of these fantastic offers. Non-members can sign up for free in less than a minute at www.centarathe1.com.

To learn more about ‘East Coast Escape’ visit https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/east-coast-escape-2024

Pandaw headlines Classic Mekong sailings

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 4 September 2024: Pandaw has confirmed new 2025 peak season sailing dates for its Classic Mekong expeditions, which are linked to the launch of its third ship on the lower Mekong.

Due to increased demand, Pandaw will launch a third ship, Indochina Pandaw. It will sail the lower Mekong between central Saigon in Vietnam and visit the temples of Angkor in Siem Reap and the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. 

From February 2025, the Indochina Pandaw will set sail with regular weekly departures. It will join Bassac Pandaw and Mekong Pandaw, offering guests the chance to explore lesser-known areas of Vietnam and Cambodia in comfort and style. The additional ship gives travel agents more sailing dates to offer their clients on Pandaw’s most popular Classic Mekong expedition. 

Pandaw’s Classic Mekong expedition introduced sailings from central Saigon in the 2024 season, making it more convenient for guests to embark and disembark right in the heart of Vietnam’s bustling metropolis and close to the city’s main attractions and hotels.

The seven-night expedition takes intrepid travellers along the mighty Mekong River through the vast delta, which is so rich in human life and endeavour, to the serene countryside of Cambodia.

Classic Mekong expedition
https://www.pandaw.com/expeditions/classic-mekong?utm_source=pandaw&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=new-2025-peak-date-agents-only

Additional dates for the 2025 peak travel season are now available for travel agents to book for their clients. Visit pandaw.com or contact the sales team at [email protected]

Amora sets Australian target

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TTR WEEKLY
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SYDNEY, 4 September 2024: Amora Hotels & Resorts, a Thai family-owned company, aspires to fly its flag in every state capital across Australia, in addition to the three properties it operates in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne; Australia has six states.

Tamer Habib, a former senior executive with Starwood, Rydges, and Stamford Hotels & Resorts and currently Amora Hotels & Resorts’ Vice President of Operations, heads the drive to reach its Australian target, which would add hotels in Adelaide (South Australia), Perth (Western Australia) and Hobart (Tasmania).  

Amora Hotels & Resorts regional office in Sydney is headed by Tamer Habib, VP of Operations (centre) and supported by Narej Farik, Group Director, Commercial & Business Development (left); and Hemant Dadlani, Group Executive Chef (right).

Amora operates three hotels in Australia: Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney, Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne, and Amora Hotel Brisbane. The latter debuted in March 2024 following an AUD25 million (USD16.4 million) rebranding and refurbishment. All three Amora properties in Australia command prime CBD locations, and the company is now pursuing an ambitious strategy that will see it establish a presence in the centre of every state capital within five years.

Habib recently opened the hotel group’s new regional office in Sydney and has helped to appoint a series of hoteliers for key leadership positions, including group director of development, group financial controller, group purchasing manager, group executive chef, and group director of human resources. 

Narej Farik, Group Director for Commercial & Business Development, supports the expansion of the group’s portfolio.
Hemant Dadlani has been appointed as Amora’s Group Executive Chef.

“One of our core strengths is that we are an owner-operator, so we can control every aspect of our experience. And this will continue as we expand. We are mainly seeking rebrandings and refurbishments, as well as potential conversions. Crucially, every Amora property has to be in a prime location and operated under our brand. Our newly-opened regional office in Sydney is making it easier to consolidate our operational processes, which, in turn, is driving our sales, revenue and profitability and providing a solid platform for our future growth,” Habib stated.

Amora owns and operates six hotels and resorts — three in Thailand and three in Australia – all under the Amora brand. The properties in Thailand are in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

About Amora Group
Amora Group is a family-owned business established by businessman and entrepreneur Dr Tanapun Siriphatrawan in 1997 with the launch of Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne. Currently, the group owns and operates six properties in Australia and Thailand. The portfolio comprises Amora Beach Resort Phuket, Amora Neoluxe Hotel Bangkok, Amora Hotel Chiang Mai, Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney, Amora Hotel Brisbane and Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne.

Singapore woos Malaysian families

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 4 September 2024: Singapore Tourism Board (STB) Malaysia embarks on a content campaign to woo Malaysian family travellers to book a holiday in Singapore. 

The content positions Singapore as welcoming for families, particularly those with young children. It features a collaboration with Malaysian personalities Farah Nabilah and Elecher Lee to share their family travel experience and the emotive bonds of togetherness created while on holiday in Singapore. 

Photo credit: Singapore Tourism Board, Singapore Sidecars.

Family travel rebounds

Demand is strong for families looking to travel with their loved ones. According to Agoda’s Family Travel Trend Survey 2022, more than 80% of travellers plan to travel with immediate family, while more than half (52%) are keen to catch up with relatives on vacation. Specifically, for travellers from Malaysia, 35% are said to be more likely to plan two or more family trips a year. Travellers to Singapore can also look forward to many attractive deals to get more value from their next holiday. Those visiting later this year can visit various attractions for the entire family.

What’s new for families

The initiative focuses on new attractions, dining establishments, retail offerings, and a calendar of events for Malaysian families. Key upcoming developments include the expansion of both the Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa integrated resorts — RWS’s SEA Aquarium, which is being transformed into the Singapore Oceanarium, the rejuvenation of Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s parks and the addition of the Mandai Rainforest Resort, as well as upgrades at The Palawan Sentosa with the brand new Sentosa Sensoryscape, which offers an immersive, multi-sensorial journey for adults and kids alike.

Singapore’s proximity and ease of travel make it a popular destination for family holidays. From January to June 2024, close to 600,000 visitors came from Malaysia, ranked as Singapore’s fourth top source market. The family segment has rebounded post-pandemic and contributed enormously to Singapore’s visitor arrivals.

“Families with young children are a key segment in the Malaysian market, and we believe Singapore is an ideal destination for their holiday needs. We are just a short flight away, and it’s easy for families to get around our city to enjoy a wide range of family-friendly experiences,” shared STB Executive Director, Southeast Asia Terrence Voon. “With Singapore’s convenience and peace of mind, we believe family travellers can focus on what really matters – enjoying precious moments and building lasting memories together.”

Families reconnect

The campaign’s content stars Farah Nabilah and Elecher Lee and their families, showcasing how Malaysian families can travel to Singapore as an annual holiday spot to reconnect and create moments. Both personalities spotlight family experiences that are quintessentially Singaporean, from iconic attractions to hidden gems, where the ordinary is made extraordinary. Farah and Elecher also share personal stories of their family vacations in Singapore, showcasing how each experience, activity, and moment spent together was an opportunity to create memories with their loved ones. 

(SOURCE: STB)

HK Express sets date for Hiroshima return

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

HONG KONG, 4 September 2024: HK Express Airways will resume direct flights between Hong Kong and Hiroshima, Japan, starting 1 November 2024, with three direct flights weekly.

Hiroshima (HIJ) will become the airline’s second destination in Japan after Takamatsu served from its home base in Hong Kong. 

To celebrate the relaunch of the Hiroshima route, HK Express sold its lowest fare at HKD318.

Hiroshima is located southwest of Honshu, facing the Seto Inland Sea in the south. It is renowned for its natural attractions, such as mountains and hot springs. Visitors can trek through the dense forests and discover quaint towns like Onomichi and Tomonoura, visit golden beaches or visit the iconic Itsukushima shrine on Miyajima, which has a floating red gate on the sea. 

Popular outdoor activities include hiking, cycling, ocean sports, and skiing. In addition to its natural wonders, Hiroshima is home to a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage site: the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. Beyond its strong cultural heritage, Hiroshima is also renowned for its savoury local cuisine, which includes specialities such as Hiroshima oysters, okonomiyaki and saltwater eel. 

Remembered most as the first target of the World War II atomic bomb attacks against Japan, there is no denying Hiroshima’s place in history, and Peace Memorial Park is a must when looking to understand the wartime disaster that overtook the city’s residents.

However, this resilient city by the bay quickly picked itself up after the earth-shattering attack of 1945, and today, Hiroshima is filled with the same exuberant lifestyle found in other modern Japanese cities. 

The cityscape charms visitors with world heritage shrines and temples, peaceful riverfront parks and gardens, many museums, shopping and dining districts, and even nearby hot springs, where visitors can relax in the beauty of an open-air mountain setting.  

Events and festivals are held throughout the year. Flower and cherry blossom festivals in the spring and the viewing of colourful leaves in the autumn are just some of the most popular annual occasions.

Peach confirms KIX-SIN flights

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

OSAKA, Japan, 4 September 2024: Peach Aviation’s CEO Kazunari Ohashi announced last week that ANA’s low-cost airline would commence flights to Singapore this December.

The airline will launch daily flights on the Osaka Kansai-Singapore route on 4 December using an Airbus A321LR aircraft. This will be its second medium-haul international route introduced from Osaka following the launch of services to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi in 2023.

Photo credit: Peach Aviation.

Ohashi commented: “We are very pleased to launch the Osaka – Singapore route, our second medium-haul international route and the first for a Japanese airline in 14 years.” 

Flight schedule 4 December 2024 to 29 March  2025

Hot on the heels of the new flight announcement, Singapore’s EU Holidays confirmed 31 August its appointment as the airline’s General Sales Agency in Singapore.

ANA’s Peach will face tough competition on the Singapore – Osaka route currently served by Singapore Airlines and Scoot, using Boeing Dreamliner 787s configured with 337 seats (SQ) and 375 seats (Scoot). Singapore Airlines schedules 21 direct flights weekly on the route, while Scoot serves it daily. The average roundtrip fare on the route this year is USD540.

About Peach 
Peach Aviation Limited is a Japanese low-cost airline with its head office in Tajiri, Osaka Prefecture. The airline is part of the All Nippon Airways (ANA) Group. Peach is based at seven airports: New-Chitose, Sendai, Narita, Chubu, Kansai, Fukuoka, and Naha. It operates 27 domestic routes and 12 international routes with a fleet of 36 aircraft.

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