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Cambodia Air flies to Dara Sakor

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TTR WEEKLY
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PHNOM PENH, 18 April  2025: Cambodia Airways celebrated its inaugural flight to the domestic destination Dara Sakor in Cambodia’s Koh Kong province earlier this week, the only airline to serve the domestic airport (DSY).

Flying an A320 with 180 seats,  KR809 departs every Friday at 1515, arriving at the recently opened Dara Sakor International Airport at 1600. 

Photo credit: Cambodia Air. Dara Sakor’s 3,400-metre runway.

The return KR810 departs Dara Sakor airport at 1640 and arrives in Phnom Penh at 1725. 

Commencing services with a single weekly flight, the airline says in a Facebook post that it intends to increase frequencies to three weekly once passenger demand justifies expansion.

“The launch of this new flight route will not only reduce travelling time between Phnom Penh and Dara Sakor, it will also make it easier for travellers to visit and explore the breathtaking beauty of the Dara Sakor region,” the airline said in the Facebook post.

The airline noted that its Dara Sakor Phnom Penh service is the first and only commercial flight between Phnom Penh and the airport in Koh Kong province. It didn’t mention that having a casino and a resort hotel as neighbours might help to boost passenger demand on the route.

Dara Sakor International Airport (DSY)

Dara Sakor International Airport is located in Dara Sakor in Koh Kong Province, Cambodia. 
It’s a public-use airport in development serving Botum Sakor in Cambodia. Chinese-owned Tianjin Union Development Group developed the airport at the cost of USD350 million. Commercial test flights of the 3,400-metre runway took place in mid-2023. Initially, it will serve travellers heading for the Dara Sakor Resort and a nearby casino (Source: Wikipedia).

Other assets close by

Deep-water port: The port in Dara Sakor seaport can handle large ships, including cruise ships.
Military implications: The US has expressed concerns about the airport’s potential use by Chinese military aircraft and the deep-water port’s ability to support Chinese warships.
Ream Naval Base: The Cambodian government has granted China exclusive rights to operate within Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base for 30 years. The base is also near Dara Sakor.

Why fly to Dara Sakor?

Cambodia Air’s decision to fly to Dara Sakor Airport in Koh Kong province is likely driven by several factors, primarily related to tourism and economic development in the region.

Boosting Tourism: Koh Kong province boasts significant natural attractions, including a long coastline with islands and beaches, dense rainforests in the Cardamom Mountains, and ecotourism opportunities like mangrove kayaking and wildlife spotting. 

The commencement of regular flights to Dara Sakor Airport significantly improves accessibility for both domestic and international tourists, who previously had to rely on long road journeys from Phnom Penh or flights from Siem Reap. 

Attracting Investment: The development of Dara Sakor Airport itself, a large-scale project, signals a focus on economic growth in Koh Kong. Improved air connectivity can attract domestic and foreign investment in various sectors, including tourism, real estate, and industry. 

Serving the Dara Sakor Resort: The airport is intended to serve the new Dara Sakor Resort, a significant tourism and development project. By offering direct flights, Cambodia Air can cater to the resort’s visitors, making it a more attractive destination once flights increase to three weekly.   

Developing Domestic Air Travel: Cambodia Air’s new route from Phnom Penh is a key step in establishing domestic air travel to this previously underserved region. This aligns with a broader trend in developing air connectivity within Cambodia.   

Strategic Location: Koh Kong’s location bordering Thailand also makes Dara Sakor Airport a potentially important gateway for cross-border tourism and trade in the future. While the initial flights are domestic, the airport’s infrastructure suggests ambitions for international connections are on the table.

Photo credit Google Map. Dara Sakor International Airport, 198 km from Sihanoukville town by road. The ferry route from Dara Sakor to Koh Rong island is approximately 18 km or 10 nautical miles.

RHB Bank delivers travel perks at MATTA Fair

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 18 April 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has designated RHB Bank as its Exclusive Platinum Sponsor for the MATTA Fair in April 2025. 

This is the fourth consecutive partnership as RHB Bank strengthens its legacy at the MATTA Fair, which will be held from 18 to 20 April at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur (MITEC).

This partnership delivers travel deals and financial benefits for all MATTA Fair visitors. With RHB Bank, visitors can expect exclusive financial benefits, tailored promotions, and seamless payment solutions throughout the three-day fair. Visitors can stop by their booths at Level 2 International Hall and Level 1 Domestic Hall at MITEC.

As the Exclusive Platinum Sponsor, RHB Bank continues to play an important role in empowering travellers and industry players and ensuring accessibility to exciting travel opportunities through attractive financial solutions. Their strong presence at the fair will feature exclusive banking perks and promotions aimed at making travel more rewarding and convenient for all visitors.

“RHB Bank’s continued support as our Exclusive Platinum Sponsor highlights the strength of our collaboration and partnership in driving the growth of Malaysia’s travel and tourism industry. This partnership directly benefits our MATTA members by enhancing accessibility to financial solutions that empower them to offer better travel packages to consumers and enhance the visitors’ experience, thus ensuring they get the best value when booking their next holiday or adventure at the MATTA Fair,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.

Visitors to the fair can enjoy exclusive travel-related financial offerings from RHB, including discounts of up to MYR1,500 on flights and hotel bookings when using RHB Visa Cards/-i in collaboration with RHB’s designated travel partner. RHB is also introducing tailored offers designed specifically for Muslim travellers.

Among the highlights is the RHB Multi-Currency Visa Debit Card/-i, a preferred choice for globetrotters. It enables seamless transactions in 34 currencies with no foreign conversion fees for supported currencies. The card offers a secure, cashless payment experience and integrates easily with digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay – making it an ideal travel companion.

RHB will also offer a 0% Instalment Payment Plan exclusively for RHB Visa Credit Card/-i holders at participating travel agents during the fair. In addition, RHB has launched RHB PayLater/-i, Malaysia’s first Buy Now, Pay Later (“BNPL”) solution linked to a debit card. Available via RHB Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i, this feature allows customers to split purchases into interest-free instalments of up to six months at participating merchants.

RHB Banking Group Managing Director of Group Community Banking Jeffrey Ng Eow Oo shared, “We are proud to continue our journey with the MATTA Fair for the fourth consecutive time. The partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to support Malaysians’ love for travel by offering smart, secure, and rewarding financial solutions. RHB Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i, in particular, has become a trusted travel companion, empowering customers with seamless, multi-currency digital payments and integration with major e-wallets. Its strong adoption – evidenced by a 97% increase in new card acquisitions and a 50% rise in spending as of February 2025 against last year – underscores our customers’ growing confidence in RHB as their travel payment partner.”

The collaboration between MATTA and RHB is geared towards enhancing the travel experience for all fairgoers – offering convenient, secure, and flexible financial solutions for both local and international trips. Visitors are encouraged to explore the full range of offerings at the RHB booth during the MATTA Fair, 18 to 20 April 2025.

To ensure a smooth visitor experience, MATTA Fair offers free admission and is open from 0800 to 2200 from Friday to Sunday. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the complimentary shuttle services from KL Sentral and Sunway Putra Mall to MITEC. For those driving, parking facilities are available at the South Entrance Basement in MITEC, MITI Basement, and MATRADE Open parking.

Discover Centara’s newest island sanctuary

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 17 April 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel operator headquartered in Thailand, has announced an exclusive opening offer at its newest island retreat, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island, set to open on 1 May 2025. 

Nestled amidst the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, this serene sanctuary invites guests to indulge in breathtaking sea views and ultimate relaxation with special room rates, added benefits, and more.

From now until 31 May 2025, guests booking stays between 1 May and 31 October 2025 will enjoy special rates starting from THB5,500 per night, including daily breakfast for two, a daily resort credit of THB 500, and early check-in and late check-out. Guests who book at least three consecutive nights will also receive complimentary round-trip boat transfers from Tonsai Pier. In addition, CentaraThe1 members will earn triple points during their stay, while new members can easily sign up for free at www.centarathe1.com to unlock more exclusive privileges.

Located a scenic two-hour ferry ride from Phuket, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island is a secluded haven offering an infinity pool, direct access to turquoise waters from the resort deck, rejuvenating treatments at Cense by Spa Cenvaree, exceptional restaurants and bars, and an array of activities catering to families, couples, and groups looking to embrace the charm of island living.

To learn more about Centara Villas Phi Phi Island and this opening offer, visit: https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cpi/cpi-openingoffer.

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 87 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.

THAI’s A350s to head for a refit

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 17 April 2025: Airbus and Thai Airways International (THAI) have signed a Letter of Intent to retrofit the airline’s A350s with cabin upgrades to enhance passenger comfort.

Airbus will oversee the retrofit programme that will equip THAI’s fleet of A350-900 aircraft with the latest cabin innovations, ensuring a premium travel experience for passengers on long-haul routes.

The upgrades will include modernised ‘Royal Silk’ business class seats, new premium economy class seats, and economy class seats, as well as an improved in-flight entertainment system.

The cabin modernisation will start in 2028, and retrofitted aircraft should re-enter service in phases, ensuring minimal impact on the airline’s flight operations.

Airbus Head of Commercial Services APAC, Balinda Zhang said: “Airbus is pleased to support THAI in this significant investment in their fleet, ensuring that their A350 aircraft continue to offer passengers an exceptional flying experience. This retrofit aligns with our shared vision of delivering enhanced comfort and efficiency for airlines and their customers.”

Ponant to sail the White Continent

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 17 April 2025: In an unprecedented feat for a cruise ship, Ponant Explorations’ Le Commandant Charcot will embark on a complete circumnavigation of the White Continent between January and March 2028, departing from Ushuaia in Argentina.

Le Commandant Charcot will navigate nearly 18,000 kilometres of coastline along the frozen continent – larger than Europe. The circumnavigation of Antarctica is a polar expedition unlike any before.

Photo credit: Ponant Explorations.

Specifically designed for expeditions in extreme environments, Le Commandant Charcot features a PC2 polar hull. This allows her to navigate polar regions while minimising her environmental impact, thanks to her hybrid electric engine powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). 

Le Commandant Charcot will sail in January 2028 from Ushuaia (Argentina) westward to reach Hobart (Tasmania) in 30 days. After a two-day stopover, the ship will then depart again for her starting point, this time following the eastern coast of Antarctica over 34 days. 

Captains Etienne Garcia and Patrick Marchesseau designed this unprecedented itinerary. Their expertise in ice navigation at the highest latitudes, gained while commanding ships of the Ponant Exploration fleet, has made this new sailing dream a reality. They will jointly command Le Commandant Charcot during this exclusive voyage. Sales for the exclusive trip open in December 2025

WTTC: 2025 visitor spend will top USD2.1 trillion

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TTR WEEKLY
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BRUSSELS, 17 April 2025: Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) latest research shows that global Travel & Tourism will grow strongly this year, reaffirming its role as a cornerstone of major world economies. 

According to WTTC’s 2025 Economic Impact Research (EIR), international visitor spending is forecast to reach a historic USD2.1 trillion in 2025, surpassing the previous high of USD1.9 trillion in 2019 by USD164 billion.

This year, Travel & Tourism is expected to contribute an all-time high of USD11.7 trillion to the global economy, accounting for 10.3% of global GDP.

Jobs around the world supported by the sector are expected to grow by 14 million in 2025, to reach 371 million worldwide, more than the population of the US.

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson said: “People are continuing to prioritise travel. That’s a powerful vote of confidence in our sector and a sign of its enduring strength.

“But while the global picture in Travel & Tourism is strong, the recovery remains uneven. Some countries and regions are producing record-breaking numbers, and other large economies are plateauing.”

While there is some positive news for many economies around the world, growth has slowed in some major Travel & Tourism markets, such as the US, China, and Germany.

In the US, the world’s most powerful Travel & Tourism market, international visitor spending remained significantly below 2019 levels in 2024 and is not expected to recover fully this year. While international spending was above pre-pandemic levels in China last year, growth is expected to slow sharply in 2025.

By contrast, other key markets, such as Saudi Arabia, which will inject USD800 billion into the sector by 2030, are ahead of the curve and setting new benchmarks. European countries such as France and Spain, the world’s top two destinations in terms of visitor numbers, continue to lead the region’s resurgence, powered by smart investment and global appeal.

A Look Back on Last Year

According to the global tourism body’s latest EIR data, in 2024, Travel & Tourism contributed 10% of the world’s economy to reach USD10.9 trillion — an 8.5% increase on 2023, and 6% above the previous peak of 2019.

Jobs grew 6.2% to 357 million, accounting for one in 10 jobs worldwide.

International spending increased by almost 12%, to USD1.87 trillion, and domestic spending grew 5.4% to USD5.3 trillion.

The Decade Ahead

WTTC forecasts that by 2035, Travel & Tourism will inject USD16.5 trillion into the global economy, accounting for 11.5% of global GDP. That’s a decade-long annual growth rate of 3.5%, outpacing the broader economy’s 2.5%.

Jobs are expected to reach one in eight jobs, with more than 460 million.

International spending is anticipated to reach USD2.9 trillion, with a CAGR of 3.4%, and domestic spending will grow at a similar rate (3.3%), to reach USD7.7 trillion.

In collaboration with Oxford Economics, WTTC produces reports annually on the economic and employment impact of Travel & Tourism for 185 economies.

Each year, WTTC also releases its groundbreaking Environmental Social Research, which shows the sector’s emissions stood at 6.5% of the global total in 2023 — underscoring the critical need for continued sustainable innovation as Travel & Tourism expands.

  • All figures are in USD

Singapore spruces up cruise terminal

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 17 April 2025: Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS) will undergo its most extensive upgrade since the terminal opened in 2012, costing an estimated SGD40 million.

The project will include a new check-in area for cruise passengers, updated amenities, and a more extensive ground transport area (GTA) with more bus parking bays and ride-hailing lots.

Artist’s impression of the completed Ground Transport Area.

SATS-Creuers Cruise Services Pte Ltd (SATS-Creuers), the current terminal operator, will spearhead the nine-month upgrade starting this month. 

Given the significant investment, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has extended SATS-Creuers’ operator agreement for MBCCS for eight years, with the option to extend for another two years. The extension, which could potentially run from May 2027 until March 2037, was formalised when both parties signed a revised management and operator agreement on 18 December 2024.

The refurbished cruise centre, with upgrades costing approximately SGD40 million, will be better equipped to handle an increased passenger volume and facilitate dual ship calls associated with the trend of larger cruise ships. MBCCS’ capacity is anticipated to grow from 6,800 to 11,700 passengers following the upgrade.

The enhancements will focus on improving passenger experience, with additional lounge facilities, larger seating areas for embarkation and disembarkation and check-in stations that can accommodate two larger cruise ships concurrently.

The vacant land in front of MBCCS, which will be converted into a ground transport area, will significantly improve passenger access to and from the terminal.

Traffic accessibility will also be enhanced with the widening of a part of Marina Coastal Drive. The new GTA will increase the number of coach bays and more than double the number of ride-hailing lots. 

This, in turn, will increase the number of pick-up and drop-off points for buses and passengers, enhancing ground transportation accessibility at MBCCS.

Additionally, a portion of the current GTA will be transformed into a new check-in area, providing each cruise ship berthed at MBCCS with a dedicated check-in area for embarking passengers during dual ship calls. Upgrades will be carried out in phases to ensure minimal disruption and the cruise centre will continue to operate on ship call days.

SATS-Creuers, a joint venture between SATS and Creuers del Port de Barcelona S.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of Global Ports Holding (GPH), began operating MBCCS on 21 May 2012, leveraging SATS’ extensive experience in airport ground services. Since then, MBCCS, which is designed to accommodate large ships and high passenger volumes, has handled more than 8 million passengers from over 2,000 ship calls, strengthening Singapore’s position as a regional cruise hub and a gateway to the region.

CX upgrades Wi-Fi connectivity this August

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 17 April 2025: Cathay Pacific will offer 100% seatback inflight entertainment and 100% high-speed inflight connectivity across its fleet*, effective this August.

Customers travelling on Cathay Pacific flights will enjoy the airline’s state-of-the-art IFE system and high-speed Wi-Fi in every cabin on every route. 

Photo credit: Cathay Group.

Cathay Pacific General Manager Customer Experience Design Guillaume Vivet said: “This significant milestone reflects Cathay Pacific’s long-standing commitment to and leadership in innovation and customer-centric design. We understand the importance our customers place on having access to top-notch entertainment and reliable connectivity when they travel. Whether for business or leisure, our customers will soon have access to award-winning entertainment and unparalleled connectivity onboard all of our flights, making their journeys as memorable as their destinations.”

Since introducing seatback IFE in 1992, Cathay Pacific has invested in inflight digital innovations to enhance the customer experience. The airline’s commitment to excellence was further solidified this year when it introduced 4K HDR, offering 4K ultra-high-definition screens and a broader colour range inflight to create a more immersive, enjoyable and intuitive viewing experience.

Cathay Pacific customers can enjoy a carefully curated IFE library with exclusive branded content. Furthermore, those travelling in First or Business class and Cathay Diamond members can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi services on Cathay Pacific’s flights.

* Complimentary Wi-Fi in first or business class and for Cathay Diamond members

Ethiopian flies to Sharjah

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 17 April 2025: Ethiopian Airlines confirms it will launch a new passenger flight service to Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, effective 1 June 2025. 

The airline has scheduled four weekly flights on the Addis Ababa – Sharjah route using a 160-seat Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.

Photo credit: Ethiopian.

Flight schedule

ET 622 will depart Addis Ababa (ADD) at 2205 every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday and arrive in Sharjah (SHJ) at 0325.
ET 623 will depart Sharjah (SHJ) at 0425 every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday and arrive in Addis Ababa (ADD) at 0745.

Regarding the launch of the new service, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew stated: “We are excited to expand our passenger flight network in the UAE with the addition of Sharjah, a key economic hub in the United Arab Emirates. This new service complements our existing cargo operations and strengthens our connectivity to the Middle East. With enhanced travel options, our customers can now explore the UAE’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic business landscape.”

Ethiopian Airlines operates over 100 weekly passenger and cargo flights to more than 17 destinations across the Middle East. The airline’s presence in the region dates back to 1979 when it launched flights to Dubai, marking nearly five decades of service to the United Arab Emirates.

Sarawak and PATA step up capacity building

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 16 April 2025: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in collaboration with the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), convened three capacity-building programmes in Sarawak, Malaysia this week.

The programmes will strengthen the digital capabilities of small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMEs) and STB staff. Building on the success of one of the world’s first comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) training programmes for tourism SMEs, which concluded in Sarawak in November 2024, they are taking place this week in Miri and Kuching.

“PATA’s commitment to authoritative capacity building, particularly in AI, is rooted in our international perspective,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “Governments partnering with PATA gain access to a global network and a proven track record. Sarawak Tourism Board’s strategic investment demonstrates how this collaboration translates to tangible impact, empowering their stakeholders to lead the future of tourism, not just within their region, but within the international arena.”

The first programme expands upon the “AI-Driven Transformation: Empowering Sarawak’s Tourism SMEs” training in Kuching last year. This time, the training will be hosted in Miri, a vibrant coastal city and key tourism hub in the northern part of the state serving as a gateway to the twin UNESCO sites, Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park. This introductory-level AI training equips local tourism businesses with the foundational knowledge required to embrace AI technologies and drive digital transformation.

“The Sarawak Tourism Board, in collaboration with PATA, in this meaningful and cutting-edge AI training program is timely,” said STB CEO Madam Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. “This partnership equips our stakeholders with the essential knowledge, new ideas, and tools needed to thrive in the future of tourism. PATA’s ability to provide expertise validates their crucial role in capacity building on the international stage, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative and meaningful initiative.”

Following the Miri training, PATA will head to Kuching to deliver “Understanding OTAs, Taking Ownership”, a session designed for tourism SMEs who participated in the 2024 AI training. This session will guide businesses on effectively leveraging Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) to improve visibility, optimise content, and refine pricing strategies. As OTAs play an increasingly dominant role in global tourism distribution, understanding their structures, ranking algorithms, and marketing tools is essential for SMEs to enhance competitiveness and drive bookings.

PATA will also conduct “AI Essentials for Destination Management: Unlocking the Future of Tourism”, a training for STB staff covering AI’s role in destination management. The session will explore AI applications in marketing, data analytics, visitor engagement, and operational efficiency. As destinations worldwide navigate rapid technological advancements, investing in AI knowledge and digital skills is essential for long-term resilience. This training reflects PATA’s commitment to supporting its members, such as STB, in adopting innovative solutions that future-proof their tourism strategies and strengthen their role in the global travel ecosystem.

These programmes align with PATA’s Strategy 2030, which prioritises digital transformation, sustainable tourism, and SME empowerment across the Asia Pacific region. By equipping Sarawak’s tourism businesses and DMO staff with practical AI knowledge and a deeper understanding of digital tools, PATA and STB continue to build a more sustainable, innovative, and competitive tourism sector.

For more information about the training programmes, contact PATA at [email protected]. 

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that catalyses the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations and educational institutions; and youth members worldwide.

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