NEW DELHI, India, 22 October 2025: IndiGo has finalised a commitment for 30 Airbus A350 aircraft, converting a Memorandum of Understanding signed in June into a firm order.
The low-cost Indian airline’s A350 orders now stand at 60 aircraft. The expanded order marks a strategic shift for IndiGo as it prepares to enter the long-haul international market, leveraging the A350’s long range and efficiency to support its global ambitions.
Rendering of the A350-900 in IndiGo livery (Copyright: Airbus).
“Today is a special day for IndiGo as we solidify our commitment to expanding our international footprint and offering unparalleled connectivity to our customers,” said IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers. “The conversion of this MoU into a firm order for 30 additional A350-900s is a testament to our confidence in the future of Indian aviation and our strategic partnership with Airbus, further reinforced by the strong start of our long-haul operations.”
Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business Benoît de Saint-Exupéry commented: “This milestone reinforces our strong partnership with one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world, and we look forward to supporting their expansion into new long-haul markets”.
India, the world’s fastest-growing aviation market, is witnessing a surge in international travel as the economy grows and household incomes rise. The A350 is perfectly positioned to serve the country’s aspirations for long-range travel.
The A350, like all Airbus aircraft, can operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims for all its aircraft to be 100% SAF-capable by 2030.
At the end of September 2025, the A350 had won more than 1,400 orders from 63 customers worldwide.
SINGAPORE, 22 October 2025: Marriott International Inc. names Gautam Bhandari Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC). He will assume the role on 1 January 2026.
Gautam Bhandari, Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific.
With over two decades of proven leadership across markets and disciplines, Gautam brings the vision and expertise to drive Marriott International’s continued growth and development momentum across the APEC region.
In his new role, Bhandari will advance Marriott’s strategic growth plans in a region that spans more than 650 open hotels across 25 brands in 22 countries, with over 380 hotels in the development pipeline.
He will lead a high-performing development team across APEC, covering key markets such as Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, New Zealand, Malaysia, Maldives, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam, with a focus on new builds, conversions, franchising, branded residential, and strategic partnerships.
He joined Marriott in 2007 as Area Director of Revenue and has held various leadership roles spanning revenue management, hotel operations, sales, marketing, and development. Since 2023, he has served as Senior Vice President, Development and Operations, holding dual responsibilities in development, while overseeing the operations of Marriott’s Premium and Select brand hotels in Singapore and the Maldives.
Based in Singapore, he succeeds Shawn Hill, who will step into the Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer, Global role for Marriott International in early 2026.
ABU DHABI, 22 October 2025: Etihad Airways has reached a new milestone in its growth story by operating 300 scheduled passenger flights daily.
This achievement is underpinned by strong growth in 2025, highlighted by an over 20% year-on-year increase in daily flights, positioning Etihad among the fastest-growing full-service airlines globally.
Photo credit: Etihad.
All 300 daily flights are scheduled passenger services, underscoring Etihad’s role in connecting people and cultures while advancing Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the world’s most connected and accessible cities.
In September 2025, the airline carried 1.9 million passengers, a 21% increase compared to last year’s, maintaining a substantial 89% passenger load factor. In the first nine months of 2025, Etihad has flown 16.1 million passengers, up 18% year-on-year, demonstrating sustained demand and effective network deployment.
Etihad’s expansion continues to be matched by its investment in guest experience. The airline has maintained record levels of customer satisfaction, with a consistently high Net Promoter Score that reflects its ability to uphold exceptional standards even as it grows. This performance is supported by continuous enhancements to airport services, digital platforms, and onboard products, reaffirming Etihad’s commitment to combining operational excellence with world-class hospitality and creating memorable journeys for its guests.
Network and fleet expansion
The 300 daily flights milestone has been driven by one of Etihad’s most ambitious years of expansion. In September, the airline’s network capacity rose 25% year-on-year, supported by fleet growth and new route launches across key markets. The airline has launched or announced 31 new destinations in 2025, including Medan (Sumatra), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) and Krabi (Thailand), bringing its global network to nearly 90 destinations. Europe has been a key growth market, with flights across the continent up 35% this summer compared with last year.
Etihad’s operating fleet has grown to 115 aircraft, up from 96 in September 2024, reflecting one of the airline’s strongest years of expansion. This growth includes new A350s, 787 Dreamliners, the return of two additional A380s, and the airline’s new A321LRs, featuring private First Suites and lie-flat business class seats that elevate the travel experience on medium-haul routes and set a new benchmark for premium narrow-body travel.
DOHA, Qatar, 22 October 2025: Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways will launch codeshare flights on 26 October to 19 destinations, with more set to be added in the near future.
Kenya Airways customers can book codeshare flights between Nairobi and Doha, as well as to 10 destinations connecting through the award-winning Hamad International Airport.
Photo credit: Qatar Airways.
Similarly, Qatar Airways customers now have access to eight destinations in Kenya Airways’ network, connecting through three daily flights between Doha and Nairobi. Passengers will be able to travel on these codeshare flights from 26 October 2025. Ticket sales on the codeshare flights opened on 21 October.
The deal enables Qatar Airways to continue expanding its footprint in the African continent, providing passengers from more than 170 destinations worldwide with easier access to leisure and business destinations served by Kenya Airways, including Lilongwe, Livingstone, Juba, Nampula, Ndola, and Victoria Falls.
Similarly, Kenya Airways passengers will now be able to connect to multiple destinations in 10 countries across Asia and the Middle East through Hamad International Airport, named the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for 11 consecutive years. These destinations include Bahrain, Colombo, Islamabad, Karachi, Malé, Singapore, and Tokyo Narita.
Additionally, Qatar Airways Privilege Club members will earn Avios on the codeshare flights operated by Kenya Airways.
Kenya Airways codeshares on Qatar Airways routes
Bahrain, Colombo (Sri Lanka), Doha (Qatar), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Islamabad and Karachi (Pakistan), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Malé (Maldives), Muscat (Oman), Singapore, and Tokyo Narita (Japan).
Qatar Airways codeshares on Kenya Airways routes
Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire), Accra (Ghana), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Lilongwe (Malawi), Livingstone (Zambia), Juba (South Sudan), Nampula (Mozambique), and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe).
PANAJI, India, 21 October 2025: Goa made a strong impression at ITB Asia 2025, highlighting its distinctive ‘Regenerative Tourism’ model that blends sustainability, culture, and connectivity.
With the theme ‘Goa — The Gateway to All Possibilities,’ the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, engaged with key international stakeholders to promote meaningful collaborations and enhance global visibility.
Photo credit: Goa Tourism.Goa strengthens its global tourism footprint at ITB Asia 2025.
Representing Goa Tourism, the Goa delegation comprised Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Shri Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director Tourism; Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing/Hotels) and PRO, GTDC; Shri Nivrutti Parsekar, Superintending Engineer (GTDC); Shri Amar Heblekar, General Manager, (GFDC); and Shri Vishesh Naik, Sr. Manager, GTDC.
Speaking about Goa’s participation, Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A Khaunte, stated: “Our participation at ITB Asia 2025 has opened new avenues for Goa to engage with global tourism leaders and strengthen international collaborations. This engagement has helped us attract quality tourism, diversify source markets, and position Goa as a year-round destination that offers meaningful experiences. Through such international platforms, we aim to reinforce Goa’s identity as a destination that grows responsibly while contributing positively to the global tourism landscape. These exchanges not only enhance our international outreach but also pave the way for long-term partnerships that align with our vision of creating a tourism ecosystem rooted in regeneration and inclusivity.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, emphasised the state’s readiness to welcome international travellers, saying: “Goa’s participation at ITB Asia reflects the state’s commitment to expanding international reach while staying true to its cultural essence. We are working towards attracting travellers who value authentic experiences that celebrate Goa’s heritage, wellness offerings, and natural beauty in responsible ways.”
GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar added: “ITB Asia 2025 allows us to explore innovative tourism solutions and collaborate with global partners to enhance Goa’s offerings while keeping sustainability and community benefits at the core.”
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2025: Agoda has announced a new partnership with the UK’s largest hotel chain, Premier Inn, making the hotel’s portfolio of over 900 properties across the UK, Germany and Ireland available to Agoda’s customer base.
This collaboration will deliver a greater choice and value to Agoda’s travellers, particularly those from Asia, who are increasingly seeking quality, reliable accommodation as they explore destinations across the UK, Germany and Ireland.
Interest in travel to the UK and European region is on the rise among Asian travellers, with Agoda data showing a 20% increase in searches in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Excluding intra-Asian destinations, the UK ranks among the top five most searched international destinations for travellers from Asia.
With the addition of Premier Inn’s extensive network to its platform, Agoda is not only expanding its accommodation offering but also supporting Premier Inn’s ambition to reach new international audiences. Agoda’s deep roots and digital expertise in Asia offer Premier Inn the opportunity to tap into the region’s dynamic outbound travel market, connecting millions of travellers with high-quality, great-value stays as they plan their next adventure.
“Premier Inn’s commitment to delivering great value, consistent quality, and ensuring every guest enjoys a good night’s sleep are shared values that underpin Agoda’s mission to make travel more accessible and rewarding. Together we’re bringing trusted stays to millions of new travellers across Asia and beyond,” said Agoda Senior Vice President of Supply, Andrew Smith.
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2025: Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), has announced the launch of new flights to Labuan Bajo, Medan, Palembang and Semarang.
These flights will commence progressively between December 2025 and February 2026, strengthening Scoot’s presence in Indonesia and offering customers more diverse travel experiences.
Photo credit: Scoot. Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.
Labuan Bajo, located in the western part of Flores Island in Indonesia, is renowned for its pristine beaches, beautiful coral reefs, and vibrant marine life in the Flores Sea.
In addition to being the main gateway to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Labuan Bajo is also known for its panoramic views of surrounding islands such as Padar Island and cultural sites like the Wae Rebo Village.
From 21 December 2025, Scoot will begin twice-weekly flights to Labuan Bajo using its Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.
Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, is a bustling metropolis and offers travellers access to Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. A stepping stone to nature expeditions, Medan also houses cultural landmarks such as Maimun Palace, the Grand Mosque and the historic Tjong A Fie Mansion. Scoot will begin daily flights to Medan on the Airbus A320 family aircraft from 1 February 2026.
Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra, is one of Indonesia’s oldest cities. It is renowned for significant landmarks such as the Great Mosque of Palembang and the Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum. A centre for trade and culture known for its lively traditional markets and unique culinary offerings, Palembang is a blend of historical legacy and contemporary development.
From 15 January 2026, Scoot will begin four times weekly flights to Palembang on the Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.
Semarang, the bustling capital of Central Java, is a city rich in cultural heritage and Dutch colonial architecture. Known for landmarks such as the Lawang Sewu building, which is now used as a museum and gallery, the Great Mosque of Central Java, and its vibrant culinary scene, Semarang offers travellers a blend of rich Javanese history and multicultural influences.
Scoot will begin three times weekly flights to Semarang on the Airbus A320 family aircraft from 23 December 2025, increasing to four times weekly from 1 January 2026.
One-way economy class fares start from SGD170 to Labuan Bajo, SGD108 to Medan, SGD129 to Palembang and SGD125 to Semarang, inclusive of taxes. The new flights will be available for booking from today via Scoot’s website, mobile application, and progressively through other channels.
Scoot Chief Executive Officer Leslie Thng said: “We are proud to strengthen Scoot’s presence in Indonesia with the launch of new flights to Labuan Bajo, Medan, Palembang and Semarang. These additions underscore our commitment to strengthening our network connectivity in Southeast Asia and providing accessible and seamless connections to the rest of the wider SIA Group network through Singapore.
We will continue to seize new opportunities to expand our footprint and offer customers more travel options and memorable experiences.”
With the launch of services to Labuan Bajo, Medan, Palembang and Semarang, Scoot will operate over 120 weekly flights to 15 cities in Indonesia from February 2026. Scoot’s network will grow to 83 destinations across 18 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe.
In anticipation of increased demand for air travel during the upcoming holiday season, Scoot will also be making adjustments to its network starting this month, with an increase in flights to Bangkok and Samui Island in Thailand.
Indonesia
From November 2025, flights to Jakarta will continue to operate 28 times weekly, while Manado will see increased services from four to six times weekly. From January 2026, services to Surabaya will increase from 10 to 12 times weekly, flights to Bali from 21 to 28 times weekly and flights to Yogyakarta from seven to 10 times weekly.
Thailand
There will be additional services to Bangkok, from 39 to 42 times weekly from October 2025, while flights to Koh Samui will increase to 28 times weekly by December 2025.
Malaysia
Flights to Penang will increase from 21 to 28 times weekly from November 2025. Services to Kota Kinabalu and Kuching will each increase from seven to 10 times weekly from February 2026.
Laos
Flights to Vientiane will increase from five to seven times weekly from December 2025.
GURUGRAM, India, 21 October 2025: Air India will add 174 weekly flights on key domestic and short-haul international routes, operated by its single-aisle aircraft, as part of its Northern Winter Schedule, beginning 26 October 2025.
This significant expansion of Air India’s winter schedule enhances connectivity to major cities in India and Southeast Asia, meeting the high demand and keeping you well-informed and connected.
Photo credit: Air India.
Additions to short-haul international routes
· Delhi-Kuala Lumpur: Increasing from 7x to 10x weekly flights, effective 15 November
· Delhi-Denpasar (Bali): Increasing from 7x to 10x weekly flights, effective 01 December
Additions to domestic India routes
Seasonal additions of flights to Rajasthan, effective 26 October:
· Delhi-Jaipur (new route): Introducing 3x daily flights
· Delhi-Jaisalmer (new route): Introducing 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Udaipur: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Mumbai-Jaipur: Increasing from 3x to 4x daily flights
· Mumbai-Udaipur: Increasing from 3x to 4x daily flights
· Mumbai-Jodhpur: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
More flights to Madhya Pradesh, effective 26 October:
· Delhi-Indore: Increasing from 3x to 4x daily flights
· Delhi-Bhopal: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Mumbai-Indore: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
More flights to Gujarat, effective 26 October:
· Mumbai-Bhuj: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Rajkot: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
Other frequency additions, effective 26 October:
· Delhi-Varanasi: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Delhi-Raipur: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Delhi-Port Blair: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Aurangabad: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Guwahati: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Nagpur: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Mumbai-Dehradun: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Mumbai-Patna: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Mumbai-Amritsar: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
Air India’s retrofit programme for its legacy Airbus A320neo aircraft, launched in September 2024, is nearing completion this month. Of the 27 legacy A320neo aircraft, 26 have been retrofitted with brand-new cabin interiors featuring three classes: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. Combined with other modern single-aisle aircraft, Air India now operates over 100 A320 family aircraft with cabin interiors, delivering a significantly enhanced travel experience on more than 80 domestic and short-haul international routes.
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2025: The Singapore Tourism Board has issued a cautionary note to travellers visiting Singapore to undertake travel transactions “only through licensed travel agents”.
It follows STB’s warning that identifies an individual, Lim Yi Shoon, and two companies, I-Travel Pte Ltd and LikeTravel Pte Ltd, for having allegedly offered to supply travel products to members of the public.
STB’s travel advisory says the individual and the two companies are not STB-licensed travel agents and are currently subjects of interest in an ongoing investigation by STB.
Carrying on the business of a travel agent without a licence is an offence under Section 6(2) of the Travel Agents Act 1975, punishable on conviction with a fine of up to SGD25,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
STB said it takes a “serious view of such activities and will not hesitate to take enforcement action. It advises travellers who have come into contact with the identified individual and/or company(s) to lodge a report via https://go.gov.sg/contactstbform.
STB says the travellers’ reports should include relevant information such as booking details and a description of the incident. Travellers are reminded to verify if their chosen travel agent is licensed via the Travel Agents directory on the TRUST website.
JAKARTA, 21 October 2025: TransNusa Aviation Mandiri (TransNusa) is strengthening its base in Bali by introducing a new international route from the renowned tourism destination to Changi, Singapore, starting 17 November.
TransNusa started selling tickets for the new scheduled flight from Bali to Singapore on 17 October. Tickets are priced from SDG109 (MYR285, USD65 and IDR999.000), purchased on the airline’s website or online travel agencies.
TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Bernard Francis.
TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Bernard Francis, said: “The addition of the Bali – Singapore international route is significant to TransNusa as Singaporeans are one of ASEAN’s top tourists for Bali.”
TransNusa will launch the maiden flight from Bali to Singapore on 17 November 2025. It will operate three flights weekly and intends to increase frequencies quickly to meet anticipated passenger traffic demand.
“From 17 to 29 November, TransNusa will offer three scheduled flights weekly on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays. By 30 November, we will increase the schedule to daily flights from Bali to Singapore,” said the airline’s CEO.
TransNusa’s scheduled flight, 8B 551 (DPS-SIN), will depart Bali at 0730 from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and arrive at the Singapore Changi Airport at 0955.
Flight, 8B 552 (SIN-DPS), will depart Singapore Changi Airport at 1055 and arrive at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali at 1330. TransNusa will use its 174-seat Airbus A320 for this international route with a flight time of two hours and 30 minutes.
