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Dusit Thani Bangkok opens for bookings 1 May

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 25 April 2024: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has confirmed that its iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel will reopen on 27 September 2024.

It follows a stunning transformation as part of Dusit Central Park – a landmark mixed-use development opposite Lumpini Park in the heart of Bangkok – and it is beginning its celebrations early by launching a special reopening offer. 

Starting 1 May 2024, eager guests can secure their bookings for the new Dusit Thani Bangkok exclusively on dusit.com. Early bookers will be rewarded with a nightly credit of USD75 (THB2,700 net) for dining and spa treatments and other enticing perks. Rates start at an attractive USD330++ per night (THB12,000++). This special offer can be booked until 31 October 2024 for stays between 27 September 2024 and 31 March 2025.

Promising to deliver a fresh interpretation of its predecessor’s illustrious heritage, the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok is poised to offer a luxurious sanctuary for discerning travellers from around the globe.

Guests can expect unparalleled comfort in the 257 exquisitely crafted guestrooms, including elegant suites designed by the internationally acclaimed André Fu Studio. Starting at a spacious 50 sq m, each room boasts uninterrupted views of Lumpini Park through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows complemented by stylish seating nooks. The unique floorplan ensures every room offers this breathtaking vista.

Beyond the luxurious rooms, the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok elevates the guest experience with several exciting offerings. This includes a unique urban wellness concept, curated dining experiences crafted by renowned chefs, and a chic multi-level rooftop bar created in collaboration with award-winning mixologists. The hotel boasts over 5,000 sq m of expansive banqueting and meeting facilities for meetings and events. This includes one of Bangkok’s largest grand ballrooms, featuring an impressive eight-metre ceiling and panoramic park views. Additionally, a diverse meeting space caters to intimate gatherings and large-scale events. 

The new Dusit Thani Bangkok also remembers its roots. Its renowned predecessor’s signature golden spire, meticulously preserved, now adorns the new building. Precious artworks by renowned local artists and handcrafted teakwood décor from the original property also find a new home within the reimagined space, ensuring a seamless connection to the hotel’s rich legacy.

“We are thrilled to unveil the new Dusit Thani Bangkok and countdown to our opening this September,” said Adrian Rudin, Managing Director, Dusit Thani Bangkok. “This is not just a rebuild; it’s a rebirth. We’ve woven our rich legacy into the fabric of contemporary design and cutting-edge experiences, crafting a truly transformative destination that will delight longtime fans of the original property and discerning new generations of travellers alike. Our special reopening offer unlocks the door to being among the first to experience this reimagined icon, and we look forward to welcoming guests and exceeding their expectations with our signature blend of timeless elegance and modern luxury.”

Alongside the new Dusit Thani Bangkok, Dusit Central Park will also include ultra-luxury residences (Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside), a state-of-the-art office tower, a high-end retail centre, and an 11,200 sq m Roof Park (all slated to open in 2025). To stay updated on the hotel’s debut, sign up for Dusit Gold through dusit.com/signup.

About Dusit Hotels and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes approximately 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.

For more information, please visit dusit.com

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services. 

Tripadvisor honours World’s top hotels

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 25 April 2024: Tripadvisor unveiled its annual Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Hotels Awards, celebrating this year’s highest-rated hotels based on Tripadvisor reviews. 

Leading the pack, achieving the No. 1 Top Hotel in the World, is Brazil’s Hotel Colline de France, a boutique hotel renowned for its personalised service and French elegance in the middle of the mountain town of Gramado.

Hotel Colline de France in Brazil, named No. 1 hotel in the World by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards.

Six out of the top 10 hotels worldwide are in Asia — Two in Vietnam (Hoi An and Hanoi), two in Bali, Indonesia and two in the Maldives. The other four are in the Americas — Brazil, Cuba and Mexico.

The Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards is determined based on the quality and quantity of traveller reviews and ratings specific to each subcategory posted on Tripadvisor over the 12 months from 1 January 2023 through 31 December 2023.

Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best hotels are among the top 1% of 1.6 million hotel listings on Tripadvisor. The 34-suite Hotel Colline de France has been ranked in the top five for three consecutive years, boasting more than 4,000 five-star bubble reviews.

Following the 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best Destinations and Best Beaches, announced in January and February, respectively, the 2024 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Hotel Awards are part of Tripadvisor’s larger Travelers’ Choice Award umbrella, shining a light on travellers’ favourite experiences around the World. This year, pet-friendly, sustainable, and wellness hotels are the newest subcategories introduced.

“Our Best of the Best Hotels are marvels, acclaimed by thousands of travellers for their remarkable service, stunning design, and wealth of amenities that redefine what it means to have an exceptional hotel experience,” said Tripadvisor vice president & general manager hotels, Dan Mitchell.

Top Hotels in the World

See the World’s top 25 Best of the Best Hotels here

(SOURCE: Tripadvisor)

Doesn’t get better than a THB100 fare

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 25 April 2024: Thai Vietjet launches ‘April’s Last Calls’ promotion, offering special fares starting from THB100 (excludes taxes and fees) for the airline’s entire domestic and international routes.

Bookings are open until 30 April 2024, with the travel period running from 1 June 2024 to 28 February 2025 (excluding public holidays).  

The discounted fare is valid on  Thai Vietjet’s entire domestic flight network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai, Surat Thani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Ubon Ratchathani and cross-country routes connecting Phuket to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, as well as Thai Vietjet’s international network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Vietnam, China, Fukuoka, Phnom Penh, Singapore, Taipei, and from Chiang Mai to Osaka. 

The promotional fares can also be booked on the airline’s website or mobile app, Vietjet Air, via Facebook at www.facebook.com/VietJetThailand by clicking the “Booking” tab. Payment can be made with ‘True Money Wallet’ and international debit or credit cards.

Currently, Thai Vietjet operates the top 11 domestic routes in Thailand, including flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Udon Thani, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, and Surat Thani, and cross-country flights from Phuket to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

Is sustainable travel losing its shine?

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 25 April 2024: Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Data 2024 suggests interest in sustainable travel is waning for Singaporean travellers as 47% feel that climate change damage is irreversible and their travel choices will not make a difference.

New data from the company’s annual sustainable travel research reveals that 50% of Singaporeans feel travelling more sustainably is important but not a primary consideration when planning or booking travel.

Close to half (42%) feel the damage already done is irreversible and that the choices they make are not going to change that, while one-third (31%) don’t believe climate change is as severe as people make it out to be

However, nearly three-quarters (70%) of Singapore travellers say they want to leave the places they visit better than when they arrived (up from 64% last year).

Booking.com latest research, released last week, recorded insights gathered from more than 31,000 travellers across 34 countries and territories, including Singapore. The study explored the latest consumer attitudes, priorities, and influences related to sustainable travel. 

While the annual research reveals a continued sense of desire and awareness, with 80% of Singapore travellers confirming that sustainable travel is important to them, new insights show a sense of weariness could be emerging globally, fuelled by the ongoing challenges that travellers experience to make more sustainable travel choices. 

The recent study shows that half (50%) of Singapore travellers feel travelling more sustainably is important but not a primary consideration when planning or booking a trip, and 34% of Singapore travellers even report they are tired of constantly hearing about climate change. 

Positive intentions 

Looking ahead, 3 in 4 (75%) of Singapore travellers say they want to travel more sustainably over the next 12 months, and close to half (44%) would feel guilty when making less sustainable travel choices. Moreover, some feel that the time they spend travelling could be more precious to put sustainability at the top of their decision-making list (37%). Not seeing sustainability in action also contributes to the sense of powerlessness; nearly half (46%) of Singapore travellers believe that being more sustainable in a destination that does not implement sustainability practices itself feels pointless.

Sustainable silver linings

Despite the emerging frustrations, Singaporean travellers who say they are making more mindful choices also feel that more sustainable travel experiences are adding value to their trips. New areas of research in this year’s report found that 64% of Singapore travellers recognise that they are the best version of themselves when they travel more sustainably and consequently take home this positivity, just as 72% of Singapore travellers feel that witnessing sustainable practices. In contrast, travelling inspires them to be more sustainable in their everyday life. Of those who adopted sustainable behaviours on their travels, it was seen as an enhancement for 97% of Singapore travellers who did tours or activities for authentic, local, and cultural experiences, 92% who shopped at small, independent stores, and 91% who planned their trips so that they could walk, bike, or take public transport.To download Booking.com’s full 2024 Sustainable Travel Report, please visit the Booking.com global media room.

First trip without Mum and Dad

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 25 April 2023: Skyscanner has unveiled its latest report, ‘First Trip with Skyscanner’, which illuminates the factors considered by young adults planning to embark on their first “grown-up” trip without parents or guardians. 

Conducted across Australia, India, South Korea, and Singapore, the survey gathered insights from over 5,000 young travellers. The findings revealed a strong inclination among 18 to 25-year-olds to embark on their first trip earlier in their youth, with more than half having already done so before the age of 21 and at least 1 in 3 planning to do so in the future. 

Taking your first overseas trip represents a significant milestone for numerous young adults worldwide. For certain individuals, it might occur after receiving their very first paycheck, while for others, it could be a celebratory excursion following graduation. 

Sharing her thoughts on the report, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends and Destination Expert, Cyndi Hui said, “At Skyscanner, we recognise that a desire for independence and autonomy drives today’s young travellers. They seek experiences that empower them to explore the world on their terms and are excited to take this first step without parental or guardian supervision at a young age. 

“Our report is strategically scheduled ahead of the graduation and school holiday periods in Australia, India, Singapore, and South Korea. By now revealing the preferences and considerations of young travellers, this presents an opportune moment for travel to utilise these insights. Collectively, we can assist young travellers in effectively planning ahead of their first trip and making it a journey they can call their own.”

Key Highlights from the report 

All bases covered: From planning to landing, young travellers are taking charge of charting their path to newfound independence for their coming of age; approximately 70% across APAC plan trip itineraries before jetting off, and around 1 in 2 plan the itineraries themselves. Even with lesser “grown-up money”, young travellers are committed to fund their trips. Around 70% intend to use their savings or tap into their salaries, and less than half use money from their parents or guardians. 

Safety (and Savings) First: Young travellers in APAC prioritise safety and budget when planning their first trips without their parents or guardians abroad. Safety ranks highest for young travellers in India (63%) and South Korea (54%). Conversely, young Australian (78%) and Singaporean (58%) travellers emphasise budget more.

WFO – Work from Overseas: With the rise of digital nomads and more governments granting work visas for inbound travellers, the prospect of living or working overseas is becoming more achievable. Notably, young travellers from India (47%), Australia (37%) and Singapore (33%) are motivated to travel to discover places to live or work in the future. In particular, 3 in 5 young Australians are likely to travel where work takes them, whether interstate or overseas. Similarly, more than half (65%) of Singaporeans is likely to use their travel to decide their next city to live or work in.

European Summer: From Southeast Asia to Europe, young travellers in APAC travel or intend to travel worldwide. Notably, 55% of travellers from APAC, spanning various age groups, are eyeing Europe as their destination, coinciding with European summertime.

Gen Zen: With their newfound freedom, young travellers are determined pursue what they want through travel. For some, exploring the endless wonders that the world has to offer to enrich themselves is what motivates their first unsupervised trip (1 in 2), while others seek an escapism to recharge from the hustle and bustle of life (45%).

Spill the Tea: Despite Gen Zs being digital natives, around 1 in 2 young travellers in Singapore, India, and Australia still prefer to get travel recommendations from their parents and friends. On the contrary, young South Korean travellers rely most on online search platforms (56%) for advice in planning their trips.
For more information and to download the full report, visit https://www.skyscanner.com.sg/news/my-first-trip

Cambodia Angkor to fly to Delhi

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TTR WEEKLY
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PHNOM PENH, 25 April 2024: Cambodia Angkor Air will launch flights from Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital to New Delhi in India starting 16 June. 

It’s the first time a Cambodian or foreign airline has served the direct route between to two cities. Initially, the airline will fly the route four times weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday). 

Ticket sales opened this week with a one-way fare starting at USD149 and a roundtrip fare at USD259. Fares are valid for booking until  30 April 2024 for the travel period 16 June to 31 October 2024.

Flight K6760 departs Phnom Penh at 1900 and arrives in Delhi at 2215.
Flight K6761 departs Delhi at 2315 and arrives in Phnom Penh at 0515.

The airline will deploy an A320-100/200 with 181 seats in a single economy class configuration on the route.  It’s the first direct flight between the two capital cities which cuts the flight time (one stop connection) from around eight hours and 21 minutes to four hours and 35 minutes (nonstop). The average roundtrip fare on the route is USD270.

Fernandes adopts advisory role

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 25 April 2024: AirAsia Aviation Group confirms co-founder Tan Sri Tony Fernandes will assume the role of Advisor and Steward to its group chief executive officer as the airline group embarks on a new era of transformation and growth. 

The Board of Directors at AirAsia Aviation Group unanimously approved Fernandes’s appointment, noting his exceptional entrepreneurial track record and unparalleled expertise in the aviation industry. 

Photo Caption: (From left to right) Dato’ Fam Lee Ee, Chairman of AirAsia X; Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, Advisor and Steward at AirAsia Aviation Group; Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim, Chairman of AirAsia Aviation Group.

Having built a market-leading airline, starting with just two planes to become one of the world’s largest low-cost carriers, Fernandes successfully built the group to what it is today, especially in scaling its airline recovery and growth strategy amid global headwinds such as rising fuel costs, hyper-competition, and a volatile economic climate. 

His insights and guidance are acknowledged to be crucial as AirAsia looks to grow its business profitably worldwide while maintaining its core value of affordability. This will propel the group towards its vision of becoming a leading, well-governed global airline.

AirAsia Aviation Group chairman Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim said: “As we embark on a new era for our airline Group, Tony’s visionary leadership, exceptional entrepreneurial ability, global industry knowledge and relationships will not only ensure continuity but also will assist in the next significant transformation phase. This is integral as we prepare AirAsia Aviation Group to become the leading regional aviation provider for the best value for short, medium and longer-haul routes spanning Asia and beyond. 

“In his new role, Fernandes will not only provide strategic oversight to AirAsia Aviation Group, including expansion and succession planning, but he will also be the key conduit between Capital A and the aviation business ecosystem to ensure all mutual opportunities are leveraged for maximum benefit. In addition, he will continue ongoing dialogue with key stakeholders including tourism and government, lessors, bankers and suppliers including Airbus and GE.”

AirAsia Aviation Group CEO Bo Lingam added: “Without a doubt, there is no one more fitting to assume the role of our strategic Advisor for the airline group, as we set our sights on growing to new heights with significant plans for the future. Tony’s extraordinary vision and drive will ensure we can deliver on our strategy to become the most popular and profitable value-driven airline Group in the region and beyond.

“In the short term, we remain focused on our airline recovery and growth strategy – to build the most incredible network that can’t be surpassed. This will be achieved by putting the right foundations in place to provide greater connectivity at the best price, alongside an enhanced guest experience which will ultimately drive stronger shareholder value.” 

Fernandes concluded: “I am excited about what the future holds for AirAsia Aviation Group. With our robust airline expansion strategy, we will be able to soar to greater heights as a formidable combined force in our category, with enhanced connectivity and greater flexibility with the added ability to look to fly to places we have never flown before in the future.”

“Value, inclusivity, innovation and serving the underserved are key cornerstones of the AirAsia brand. As an airline group with over 300 new specification aircraft on order, we will be able to cover the majority of continents, including Europe, Africa, and the US, ensuring we are always flying profitably with great value fares.” 

Pickpockets: A traveller’s nightmare

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 24 April 2024: Recent data has revealed that 87% of tourists heading for Europe feel like they have to take steps to protect themselves and their valuables from pickpockets.

Travel insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk have provided some pointers on staying safe from pickpockets in top holiday destinations. 

Quotezone’s European pickpocketing index revealed which tourist hotspots have the highest pickpocketing rates, with Italy, France and Spain coming out top.

The research showed thousands of people have complained about their valuables being stolen when visiting iconic tourist attractions in Europe.

These hotspots bring in large crowds, making them convenient places for criminals to target unsuspecting holidaymakers.

Pickpockets can move more inconspicuously at these popular spots and snatch purses, wallets, phones, jewellery and other valuables, often without victims even noticing.

Pickpockets can work alone or use an accomplice to distract tourists, so tourists need to be on their guard. Individuals can take precautions to protect themselves and deter thieves.

Non-essentials such as jewellery and extra cash should be left in a safe at the hotel, and tourists should keep their credit cards, phones, cameras, and wallets zipped up and close by if they need to carry them.

Use a cross-body bag and wear it on the front of your body when in crowded places; sealed inner pockets are also a good option.

Important documents, such as passports, visas or vaccination documents, should also be left locked in a safe if possible – travellers should also make copies and hide them elsewhere.

Tourists should be vigilant not only when moving in crowds but also keep belongings close when sitting down in a restaurant or bar or using public transport.

When withdrawing money from an ATM, it’s crucial not to converse with strangers to protect the PIN.

Additionally, ensuring comprehensive travel insurance coverage can provide peace of mind in case of any unfortunate incidents.

Travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk, Tiffany Mealiff said: “European cities are famously popular tourist destinations for sightseeing, with the recent surge in holidaymakers expected to continue throughout 2024, unfortunately this also makes them some of the danger zones for pickpocketing.

“With many people starting to plan out the details for their summer holidays, we are warning holidaymakers to be aware of the potential hazards of travelling to these tourist hotspots.

“While our research showed that 87% of tourists take steps to protect themselves from pickpockets, it’s easy to get carried away while being in a busy and exciting environment, taking in the sights.

“It’s crucial for tourists always to be aware of their surroundings, keep their belongings secure, and consider investing in anti-theft accessories such as money belts or cross-body bags.

“To minimise losses, it’s best to carry as little of value as possible and leave extra cash, key documentation, expensive jewellery and electronics behind at the hotel.

“Holidaymakers should also familiarise themselves with their travel insurance to check what is and isn’t covered and consider getting add-on gadget travel insurance if travelling with expensive electronics.

“Remember also to get a police report for the loss or theft of an item as this will help support the insurance claim.”

For savings on travel insurance check Quotezone.co.uk

Getaway deals for Dusit Gold members

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TTR WEEKLY
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Dusit Thani Maldives Aerial

BANGKOK, 24 April 2024: Dusit Hotels & Resorts is offering Dusit Gold card members stay discounts with savings of 10 to 20% on bookings and up to 30% off in credits during their stay, according to the latest group promotion presented through Facebook and social media campaigns.

The offer targets Dusit Gold members, the group’s frequent guest loyalty programme covering hotels and resorts worldwide. Depending on the participating hotels, discounts on hotel stays vary from 10% to 20%.

Reserve your escape now at https://bit.ly/DelightInYourGetawayEN.

Booking period: From now until 10 June 2024
Stay period: Until 14 July 2024
Open to new members: Sign up for Dusit Gold at https://bit.ly/3Hyg5IE

Dive into vibrant flavours — tropical cocktails, oceanfront seafood, or authentic Thai cuisine — with up to 30% off in hotel credits for an irresistible dining experience. Or Indulge in soothing spa treatments and elevate your well-being using your resort credits. Plus, enjoy member privileges, including 10 to 20% off stays and up to 30% off dining, room upgrades, late check-out, Dusit “Instant Delight” rewards, and other benefits.

Not yet a member? Join the complimentary loyalty programme and reserve your stay at https://bit.ly/DelightInYourGetawayEN.

Hong Kong passenger traffic soars 48%

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 24 April 2024: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) handled 4.36 million passengers in March 2024, up 56.7% from March 2023, according to data released by the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) yesterday.

HKIA also confirmed it handled 29,840 flight movements, up 48.2% over the March 2023 performance

The positive outcome was partly driven by the long Easter holidays starting at the end of March. All passenger segments saw growth. Traffic to and from Southeast Asia, Mainland China and Japan recorded the most significant increases during the month.

Cargo throughput registered a year-on-year increase of 15.1% to 428,000 tonnes in March. HKIA has now posted double-digit year-on-year growth in cargo each month in 2024, on the back of another successful year in 2023, for which HKIA was once again named the busiest cargo airport in the world by Airports Council International. Export traffic was again the main driver in March, recording a 23.7% increase compared to last year. Among key trading regions, cargo traffic to and from North America, Europe and the Middle East rose most significantly during the month.

For the first quarter of the year, the airport handled 12.7 million passengers, marking an increase of 81.7% compared to the low base during the same period in 2023. Flight movements registered a year-on-year increase of 63.7% to 86,210. Cargo volume rose by 18.9% year-on-year to more than 1.1 million tonnes.

On a 12-month rolling basis, passenger volume was 45.2 million, or 264.5% higher than the previous comparable period. Flight movements and cargo throughput saw year-on-year increases of 92.1% and 9.1% to 309,650 and 4.5 million tonnes, respectively.

As traffic maintained its growth trajectory, AAHK continued to receive international and local recognition for its ongoing efforts to leverage innovative technologies and knowledge management systems for greater operational efficiency. AAHK recently received the “Most Innovative Knowledge Enterprise (MIKE) Award 2023” in both the Global and Hong Kong categories as well as ‘‘The Best in Technology Deployment Award” and “Top Winners” distinction in the Hong Kong MIKE Awards 2023.

AAHK COO Vivian Cheung said: “We are honoured to receive these awards, which recognise our innovative approach to knowledge management and providing quality service to passengers. We will continue to identify and incorporate the latest airport management innovations to enhance our operations’ efficiency further and provide passengers with a pleasant airport journey.”

(SOURCE: AAHK)

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