Friday, June 20, 2025
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T’way Air adds SIN-CJU route

SINGAPORE, 19 June 2025: T’way Air, Korea’s low-cost carrier, has announced an expansion of its Singapore–Korea routes, adding a new Singapore–Jeju route alongside its established Singapore–Incheon Seoul service.

First launched in May 2022, T’way Air’s Singapore–Incheon route has operated daily using A330-200s and A330-300s aircraft and will increase frequencies to twice daily from 23 July to 25 October 2025.

Beginning 16 August  2025, the airline will introduce five weekly Singapore–Jeju flights using a Boeing 737 Max 8 and will increase to daily services from 2 September to 26 October 2025.

The new Singapore–Jeju TW166 flight departs Singapore (SIN) at 0215 and arrives in Jeju (CJU) at 0920. Flights depart Singapore on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

The TW165 flight from Jeju departs at 1950 and lands in Singapore at 0045 the following day.

To celebrate the new Jeju service, T’way Air is offering a promotional fare of SGD195 for travel between 16 August and 25 October 2025 on its official website. Additionally, three limited–time vouchers are available for download through 30 June.

SGD50 Early Bird Voucher: Valid on Singapore–Jeju bookings of SGD400 or more. Travel period 15 August to 25 October 2025.

SGD 50 Early Bird Voucher: Valid on Singapore–Incheon bookings of SGD400 or more for the travel period 1 August to 25 October 2025.

SGD 20 Off Voucher: Valid on Singapore–Incheon bookings of SGD200 or more for the travel period 2 June to 25 October 2025.

Passengers who complete any booking to Incheon or Jeju by 30 June 2025, using promo code FESTTRIP can save up to 12% (actual savings vary with the exchange rate at purchase). New users who register on the website will also receive a SGD20 welcome voucher for Incheon or Jeju bookings of SGD180 or more.

About T’way Air
T’way Air, headquartered in Daegu, South Korea, has been a leading low-cost carrier since 2010. T’way Air serves customers across East Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Oceania, and Europe with a fleet of Boeing 737-800s, 737 MAX 8s, Airbus A330S, and Boeing 777-300ERs.

ANA firms up A321 orders

BANGKOK, 19 June 2025: ANA Holdings has finalised an agreement by signing a firm order with Airbus for 24 single-aisle A321neo and three A321XLR.

The order was announced at the Paris Air Show 2025 during a signing ceremony with Koji Shibata, Representative Director, President and CEO of ANAHD, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.

Photo credit: Airbus.

The order covers 14 additional A321neo for All Nippon Airways (ANA) as well as 10 A321neo and three A321XLR for its group airline, Peach Aviation, to upgrade the group’s current fleet.

Peach Aviation will become the first Japanese airline to operate the A321XLR, which has the longest range of any single-aisle aircraft, flying up to 4,700nm/8,700 km nonstop.

“We are delighted to have signed the firm order for the introduction of additional A321neo and the first A321XLR into our group airlines. We believe that this additional introduction of Airbus aircraft will further deepen our relationship,” said Shibata. “We will accelerate the introduction of state-of-the-art and fuel-efficient aircraft to provide our passengers with excellent service and to reduce CO2 emissions.

“From its first order in 1987 to an order book now approaching 100 aircraft, ANA has been a long-standing customer for the A320 Family. The exciting addition of the A321XLR for Peach Aviation further underscores ANA’s innovative spirit and trust in the A320 Family’s unrivalled capabilities,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry. “We are committed to providing our full support to ANA and Peach Aviation as their growing fleet is deployed on more routes across their networks.”

The A321XLR sits alongside widebodies in an airline’s fleet. It introduces the flexibility to add capacity, to open new routes, or even to continue operating existing ones when demand is variable. This is all while burning 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation competitor aircraft. The A321XLR’s new Airspace cabin will provide passengers with long-haul comfort in all classes.

To date, more than 7,000 A321neo aircraft have been ordered by more than 90 customers worldwide.

Marriott rebrands Soaltee Kathmandu

SINGAPORE, 19 June 2025: Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 brands, makes its debut in South Asia with the opening of The Soaltee Kathmandu Autograph Collection in Nepal.

This will be Marriott Bonvoy’s 19th brand in the South Asia region (India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka). Located in the heart of the city, The Soaltee Kathmandu Autograph Collection features 285 rooms, including suites.

The Soaltee Kathmandu Autograph Collection.

The hotel exemplifies the brand’s ethos, showcasing Kathmandu’s rich history through a refined and sophisticated perspective. Guests will be treated to an authentic sense of place with panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, the sacred Swoyambhunath Stupa, and the hotel’s gardens.

“The debut of Autograph Collection Hotels in South Asia with The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection is a proud milestone for Marriott International, marking the arrival of our 19th brand in this vibrant region,” Marriott International – South Asia Regional Vice President Ranju Alex commented.

“South Asia continues to be a dynamic growth engine for Marriott International, and the debut of Autograph Collection Hotels in Kathmandu reflects our commitment to expanding into culturally rich leisure destinations. With its deep-rooted legacy and unique character, The Soaltee Kathmandu perfectly aligns with our vision of delivering immersive, one-of-a-kind stays across the region.”

Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, is a gateway to the Himalayas and a cultural treasure trove renowned for its ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and rich spiritual heritage.

The Soaltee Kathmandu Autograph Collection, with its history dating back to 1966, stands as a cornerstone in Nepal’s hospitality history. 

“We are incredibly proud to announce The Soaltee Kathmandu Autograph Collection as the first Autograph Collection hotel in South Asia,” said general manager Avinash Deshmukh. “With a legacy spanning over 58 years, this iconic hotel seamlessly blends Nepal’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary luxury. We are excited to usher in a new chapter for this landmark property and the brand in the region.”

Qatar makes it nine at the World Airline Awards

PARIS, 19 June 2025: Qatar Airways was named the World’s Best Airline for the ninth time, declared by the Airline’s CEO as “an extraordinary honour.”

Five-time winner of the prestigious Airline of the Year award, Singapore Airlines ranked second in the world listing for 2025, with Cathay Pacific Airways moving up to third place.

Nine-time winner: Qatar Airways.

Emirates crossed the finishing line in fourth place, and ANA All Nippon Airways in fifth position, out of more than 325 airlines included in the survey results.

The 2025 World Airline Awards were announced at a gala ceremony held on 17 June at the Paris Air Show in the Air and Space Museum at the fabulous art deco Hall of Eight Columns of Le Bourget airport.

Some 500 guests attended from airlines across the world, with a large number of airline Chairman, CEO’s and Presidents accepting their awards.

Widely known as ‘the Oscars of the aviation industry,’  the World Airline Awards began in 1999 and remain independent and impartial with all of the customer survey costs and awards event hosted by and paid for by the organisers, Skytrax.

 Skytrax CEO Edward Plaisted said: “We welcomed back a large number of previous winners and were also delighted to see new faces and airlines represented here today. As is indicated by so many former winning airlines being awarded again, quality consistency is clearly well recognised by customers when they vote for these airlines.”

The World’s Top 20 Airlines In 2025

Qatar Airways
Singapore Airlines
Cathay Pacific
Emirates
ANA All Nippon Airways
Turkish Airlines
Korean Air
Air France
Japan Airlines
Hainan Airlines
Swiss Int’l Air Lines
EVA Air
British Airways
Qantas Airways
Lufthansa
Virgin Atlantic
Saudi Arabian Airlines
Starlux Airlines
Air Canada
Iberia

The Skytrax CEO commented on the Qatar victory: “It is a fabulous achievement for Qatar Airways to win the World’s Best Airline title for 2025, the ninth time they have triumphed in the history of the award. Qatar Airways achieved excellent results across many award categories, with their Business Class winning the World’s Best Business Class and their Al Mourjan Garden Lounge being named the World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge. We congratulate Qatar Airways on these successes, which should be a source of great pride and satisfaction for the airline management and staff.”

SIA is second on the podium

Singapore Airlines took top honours with the award for the World’s Best Cabin Crew, and their First Class Suites continue to dominate by winning the award as the World’s Best First Class. In one of the most competitive global regions for airline service standards, Singapore Airlines also scooped the accolade for the Best Airline in Asia.

Taiwanese airline Starlux Airlines won the 2025 award as the World’s Most Improved Airline, reflecting its quality improvement across the entire Awards programme. At the start of the awards event in Paris, Starlux Airlines also received their 5-Star Airline Rating for the first time, bringing the number of 5-Star Airlines worldwide to eleven.

AirAsia was the repeat winner of the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline award, a title it has won each year since 2010. Scoot received a top award as the World’s Best Long-Haul Low-Cost Airline.

AirAsia co-founder and CEO Capital A Tony Fernandes said: “To win the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline Award for 16 years in a row is nothing short of incredible. From flying just 200,000 guests in our first year to aiming to welcome our one billionth guest this year – this journey has been made possible by the unwavering support of our guests and the tireless dedication of our incredible Allstars. We thank the Skytrax team for recognising our work, and I would like to share the award with my Allstars, it belongs to them. Thank you for believing in the dream.”

The World’s Best Cabin Crew 2025

Singapore Airlines
ANA All Nippon Airways
Cathay Pacific Airways
Garuda Indonesia
EVA Air
Hainan Airlines
Japan Airlines
Malaysia Airlines
Starlux Airlines
Korean Air

The World’s Best Low-Cost Airlines 2025

AirAsia
Scoot
Indigo
Eurowings
Vueling Airlines
Volotea
Transavia
Iberia Express
Flynas
easyJet

The World’s Best Regional Airlines 2025

Bangkok Airways
Virgin Australia
Porter Airlines
Aegean Airlines
Azerbaijan Airlines
jetBlue Airways
Alaska Airlines
Hong Kong Airlines
RwandAir
Royal Air Maroc

The World’s Most Improved Airlines 2025

Starlux Airlines
ITA Airways
HK Express

View the full 2025 Award results

About The 2025 World Airline Awards
The World Airline Awards are wholly independent and impartial, introduced in 1999 to provide a customer satisfaction study that is truly global. Travellers across the world vote in the largest airline passenger satisfaction survey to determine the award winners. The media have referred to the awards as “the Oscars of the aviation industry”.

Emirates opens crew roadshow

SINGAPORE, 18 June 2025: Emirates will host a recruitment drive in Singapore on Thursday, 19 June, offering candidates the opportunity to join its multinational cabin crew team.

With fleet expansion plans underway, Emirates aims to recruit 5,000 cabin crew members from around the world.

Photo credit: Emirates Group Career.

The upcoming invitation-only recruitment drive will take place on Thursday, 19 June 2025. Interested candidates must apply via the Emirates Group Career website to be considered for shortlisting and potential invitations.

See: Emirates Group Careers

Emirates will continue to hold recruitment events in Singapore throughout the year, with the next one scheduled for 19 July 2025.

The Dubai-based airline is seeking individuals who are passionate about delivering personalised yet straightforward and impeccable hospitality while creating memorable moments for its customers. With safety being one of Emirates’ highest priorities, the ideal candidate will lead confidently and take control when it comes to managing aircraft services, security, and safety procedures. All Emirates crew will receive world-class training at the airline’s state-of-the-art facility in Dubai. 

Recruitment drive

In 2025, Emirates’ recruitment team will host open days and assessments in more than 460 cities across six continents, reflecting the airline’s extensive network and the diversity of its cabin crew team while showcasing the benefits of living and working in dynamic Dubai. As of June 2025, the airline has more than 24,000 cabin crew members, including over 70 from Singapore.

Fleet and network expansion

The new cabin crew recruitment drive comes as Emirates received its first six A350s. The airline has another 59 A350s and a mix of 205 777-9s and 777-8s in its order book. The new aircraft will expand the airline’s reach and provide flexibility to add new routes to its network.

Training and life skills

All new cabin crew recruits undergo an intense seven-and-a-half weeks of training in delivering the highest standards of hospitality, safety, and service that Emirates’ customers have come to expect over the years. Trained in Emirates’ state-of-the-art facility in Dubai, cabin crew learn invaluable transferable skills that include a knack for communication, initiative, and leadership qualities. They develop the ability to work effectively in a multicultural team, the focus to stay mentally strong and calm under pressure, and become bastions of hospitality and exceptional service, as well as ambassadors of an iconic brand. Cabin crew also have access to the latest training programmes and LinkedIn courses.

Cabin crew community

Emirates’ multicultural cabin crew team hails from more than 149 nationalities. The cabin crew community speaks more than 76 languages – which is why customers can always expect to converse with a warm, friendly voice in their lingo. Crew form lifelong friendships and close-knit bonds within the community, fostering better teamwork, a common sense of purpose and a shared service philosophy.

Emirates’ cabin crew enjoy a competitive, tax-free salary and flying pay, eligibility for profit share, hotel stays and layover expenses, concessional travel and cargo, annual leave, annual leave ticket, furnished accommodation, transportation to and from work, excellent medical, life and dental insurance coverage, laundry services and other benefits. Friends and family enjoy deeply discounted flight tickets, and travelling with their loved ones creates lasting memories for the crew.

For information and to make a flight booking, visit www.emirates.com.

THAI explores Italian travel market

BANGKOK, 18 June 2025: Thai Airways International organised an event, “THAI Networking in Milan 2025: Grace to Growth – Soaring Beyond Boundaries”, in Milan, Italy, to strengthen its sales and marketing strategies in Europe.

The initiative, part of the airline’s efforts to boost sales on key routes and expand the airline’s network accessibility, was attended by key partners and stakeholders, including representatives from the Thai Trade Center in Milan, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Rome Office, Milan Malpensa Airport, ticketing agents, and local media.

It served as a platform to present new products and services to business partners and individual customers while also boosting sales growth on the Milan–Bangkok route.

In addition, it focused on building business connections with the travel trade beyond Milan in other major Italian cities, such as Rome, Naples, Catania, Venice, and Bologna.

In a press statement, the airline noted that “the strategy aimed to optimise sales opportunities in the European market while presenting the airline’s seamless connections to cities beyond Bangkok in Asia and Australia”.

Currently, THAI operates daily direct flights between Bangkok and Milan, using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

A new chapter for Paradox Hotels & Resorts

SYDNEY, 18 June 2025: Paradox Hotels & Resorts will make its Australian debut on 1 July 2025 with the rebranding of one of Sydney’s hospitality landmarks, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel.

Rebranded as Paradox Sydney, the property has been owned by TA Global since 1997. The historic sandstone building located at 27 O’Connell Street, Sydney, marks Paradox’s first Australian location.

Photo credit Paradox Sydney.

Paradox Sydney joins a global portfolio of hotels in five countries, including Canada, Singapore, China, Thailand, and now Australia, renowned for culturally inspired design, seamless service and experiences that capture the unique spirit of each city.

Initially built in 1856 as the home of John Fairfax & Sons, it has since served as the Bank of New South Wales and then Westpac Bank before transitioning into a hospitality venue as the five-star Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel in 2000. It is now entering a new era as the Paradox Sydney.

“Paradox is about creating places with soul — hotels that are deeply connected to the people, culture and pulse of the city,” said TA Global CEO Tiah Joo Kim, the visionary behind the Paradox brand. A graduate of Sydney’s Macquarie University, Tiah brings a personal connection to the city, making Sydney a fitting milestone for Paradox’s global growth.

“To debut in Australia at such a historic and meaningful heritage address is a major milestone for us. We look forward to bringing our signature blend of culture, creativity, and authentic hospitality to this vibrant city.”

The group has appointed Peter Tudehope, General Manager of Paradox Sydney.

Following an AUD13.5 million refurbishment in 2015, Paradox Sydney features 364 rooms and suites, meeting and conference facilities, a wellness centre, a restaurant and a bar, all housed in the building’s stately sandstone façade and contemporary interiors.

In the coming months, the property will undergo a gradual refresh to embody the Paradox brand and meet modern guest expectations. The hotel will remain fully operational throughout the transition, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted experience for all guests.

GMTI study spotlights global Halal travel

SINGAPORE, 18 June 2025: As awareness of Muslim travellers’ needs grows, Halal travel is increasingly shaping how destinations design and deliver experiences, the latest study reveals.

According to the newly released 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 — up 25% from 2023 — and are projected to grow to 245 million by 2030.

By then, total travel spending is expected to reach USD$230 billion, highlighting the growing influence and economic potential of this vibrant market.

To stay competitive, travel and tourism stakeholders must adapt to the evolving needs of Muslim travellers, prioritising purpose, inclusivity, and digital innovation. The 10th edition of the GMTI identifies the key trends and destination leaders shaping the future of Halal-friendly travel.

Key Consumer Trends Impacting Halal Travel

GMTI 2025 highlights five significant trends shaping Muslim travel preferences today:

Smart Apps for Halal Journeys: Muslim travellers are embracing digital tools that offer seamless access to faith-aligned services and personalised experiences.

The Modern Female Muslim Traveler: Women are shaping the Halal travel sector in powerful ways, driving demand for safer, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed spaces.

Muslim-friendly facilities: Destinations that offer alcohol-free environments, Halal-certified dining options, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated pools and spas are becoming increasingly essential.

Solo Travel Surge: Younger Muslim travellers are embracing solo adventures, favouring autonomy and personalised itineraries.

Digital Detox Retreats: Inspired by Islamic values of mindfulness and balance, many travellers are seeking tech-free escapes rooted in nature and spirituality.

Destinations Leading the Way in Muslim-Friendly Travel

The GMTI 2025 highlights leading destinations around the world that are setting benchmarks in Muslim-friendly travel.

Among OIC destinations, Malaysia retains the top spot, recognised for its accessible Halal-friendly services and infrastructure. Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) share the second spot, each offering a potent combination of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and dedicated efforts to enhance the Muslim travel experience. Indonesia also ranks highly, supported by its rich cultural appeal.

Other notable destinations in the Gulf region include Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, all of which continue to strengthen their offerings for Muslim travellers.

Among non-OIC destinations, Singapore remains the leader, recognised for its emphasis on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. Thailand and the Philippines are steadily emerging as rising Muslim-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia.

Thailand offers warm hospitality and a growing range of Halal-certified services, while the Philippines is enhancing its capacity to serve Muslim travellers through better Halal food access and Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites.

In addition, Hong Kong has emerged as a standout non-OIC destination, ranking third in the GMTI 2025. The city has invested significantly in Muslim-friendly infrastructure, with 61 hotels accredited by CrescentRating and 153 restaurants certified as Halal by the Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong. Hong Kong also received the Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year award, part of the Global Muslim Travel Index Awards.

Taiwan has also continuously positioned itself as a Muslim-friendly destination, offering a welcoming environment that respects cultural and religious diversity. Over 230 restaurants and hotels have been certified as Halal by the Chinese Muslim Association, many of which feature separate kitchens to accommodate dietary requirements.

CrescentRating Founder & CEO Fazal Bahardeen said: “As we launch the 10th edition of the Mastercard-CrescentRating GMTI, we celebrate an eleven-year journey of innovation with Mastercard. This report catalyses change, shaping tourism policies worldwide. Together with Mastercard, we remain committed to building a travel ecosystem rooted in understanding, inclusivity, and excellence, ensuring travel continues to bridge cultures and celebrate diversity.”

Mastercard Division President Southeast Asia Safdar Khan said: “Tourism is a powerful driver of economic growth in Southeast Asia, supporting job creation, empowering local tourism businesses, and advancing national development agendas. Mastercard remains committed to working with governments, tourism authorities, and industry partners to elevate travel through inclusive growth, digital innovation, and data-driven insights. The 10th edition of the Mastercard-CrescentRating GMTI reflects a long-standing collaboration built on a shared purpose to help shape a more resilient, inclusive, and opportunity-rich travel ecosystem.”

As the global Muslim travel market enters a dynamic new growth phase, GMTI 2025 serves as a timely guide for stakeholders seeking to tap into this rapidly evolving landscape.

2025 Global Muslim Travel Index Rankings

*Hong Kong received the Most Promising Muslim Friendly Destination of the Year Award, having improved its GMTI score by 10 points — the biggest jump among non-OIC destinations. Download the full GMTI 2025 report here: Muslim Travel, Tourism & Halal Food Market Research, Reports & Publications.

HK Express deal on Miyako flights

HONG KONG, 18 June 2025: Low-cost airline HK Express has confirmed it will launch flights to Miyako Shimojishima, Japan, effective 27 June, with fares starting from HKD118 one way.

HK Express has launched flights to Cheongju and Daegu, with Miyako Shimojishima scheduled to follow next week.

Photo credit: HK Express.

The airline, which is part of the Cathay Grou,p is teaming up with eight hotels that are part of the Shigira Seven Miles Resort complex to deliver getaway deals for Hong Kong residents.

Flying an A320 configured with 188 seats in a single class, the airline will serve Miyako Shimojishima airport (SHI) with four weekly services on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday starting 27 June. The flight time is two hours and 25 minutes.

Flight schedule

UO814 departs Hong Kong (HKG) at 1410 and arrives in Miyako Shimojishima (SHI) at 1725.
UO815 departs Miyako Shimojishima (SHI) at 1810 and arrives in Hong Kong (HKG) at 1935.

One-way “Lite” fares to Miyako Shimojishima start from just HKD 118. When you book a flight to Miyako, you get to stay at one of the resort’s eight designated hotels to enjoy up to 20% off with daily breakfast, or stay four nights and pay for three nights with breakfast included.

Booking period: From now until 18 June 2025 (HKT 2345)
Travel period: 27 June to 24 August 2025.

Shigira Resort Seven Miles Offer

Shigira Seven Miles Resort boasts eight hotels, from cosy and casual to full-on luxury.

Booking Period: Now until 20 October 2025 (HKT 2250)
Stay Period: 27 June to 25 October 2025

Designated Hotels

Hotel Shigira Mirage
Hotel Shigira Mirage Beachfront
Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda
Allamanda Imgya Coral Village
Hotel Breeze Bay Marina
Hot Cross Point Santa Monica
Hotel Seabreeze Coral
Wellness Villa Brisa

Ethiopian introduces Hyderabad service

SINGAPORE, 18 June 2025: Ethiopian Airlines launched a new passenger service to Hyderabad, India, on 16 June 16, scheduling three weekly flights from its home base at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

The new service was celebrated with a launch ceremony attended by senior government officials, ambassadors, distinguished guests, and members of the aviation community.

Photo credit: Ethiopian.

This new route underscores the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity between Africa and India by offering passengers more direct flight options to India’s gateway cities.

Flight schedule.

During the official launch of the new route, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew remarked: “We are pleased to commence this new passenger service to Hyderabad, the sixth destination Ethiopian operates in India. We believe that beyond providing air transportation service, this new flight will play a pivotal role in strengthening trade and tourism ties between the two regions.”

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates over 50 weekly dedicated passenger and cargo flight services to five Indian cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Chennai.