Monday, August 11, 2025
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Cathay announces solid 2025 interim results

HONG KONG, 7 August 2025: The Cathay Group announced its 2025 Interim Results on Wednesday, together with an exercise of purchase rights for an additional 14 Boeing 777-9s, bringing Cathay’s total commitment to 35 aircraft.

Cathay Group Chair Patrick Healy commented: “Over the past few years, we have embarked on an all-encompassing fleet renewal and expansion plan, which includes orders for over 100 new narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody and large freighter aircraft. 

Photo credit: Boeing.

“This new order brings our total investment to well over HKD100 billion, which also includes new cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, further strengthening the Hong Kong international aviation hub and elevating the customer experience to new heights.

“As a Group, our passenger airlines, Cathay Pacific and HK Express, have launched or announced 19 new destinations so far in 2025, with more still to come. We now fly to more than 100 passenger destinations globally, as we continue to enhance Hong Kong’s connectivity with the world. ​

“We are also delighted to have been recognised in multiple renowned industry rankings and awards. Cathay Pacific was named one of the world’s top three airlines, as well as being recognised for having the world’s best Economy class and the world’s best in-flight entertainment according to Skytrax. Meanwhile, Cathay Cargo was again named Cargo Operator of the Year by Air Transport World, and HK Express was named one of the top five low-cost airlines in the world by Airline Ratings. These achievements would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our customers and the dedication of our people, for which we are extremely grateful.”

First-half results

As a group, Cathay reported an attributable profit of HKD3.7 billion in the first half of 2025, a similar level to the first half of 2024.

The group’s first-half result was attributable to increased passenger capacity and volumes, albeit at lower yields, a resilient cargo business and lower fuel costs.

Meanwhile, the results from associates, the majority of which are recognised three months in arrears, reflected an attributable loss of HKD181 million, compared with a loss of HKD342 million in the first half of 2024. 

The group’s first-half result has allowed it to announce a first interim dividend payment to ordinary shareholders of HK20 cents per ordinary share, totalling HKD1.3 billion. This is the same amount per ordinary share as the first interim dividend paid in 2024.

Customer experience

Cathay Pacific’s new Aria Suite Business class cabins and in-flight entertainment system have received various recognitions in prestigious design industry awards. Building on these achievements, the airline will be introducing brand new cabins and a flat-bed Business class product on its existing Airbus A330s in 2026, followed by a world-leading First class experience onboard its Boeing 777-9s when the first aircraft is expected to arrive in 2027.

Additionally, Cathay Pacific has been rolling out refinements to the design of its current regional Business class on selected A330-300 and 777-300 aircraft with an updated look and features, which are expected to be completed this year. Furthermore, starting this month, Cathay Pacific is one of the very few airlines in the world to offer both 100% seatback inflight entertainment and 100% inflight connectivity across its entire fleet. ​

On the ground, Cathay Pacific has commenced an extensive redevelopment plan for its lounges. Earlier this year, The Bridge was opened at Hong Kong International Airport following a complete redesign. The redesigned Beijing flagship lounge is scheduled to open this month, while a brand-new flagship lounge will be launched in New York next year.

BWH reopens Subic hotel after redesign

BANGKOK, 7 August 2025: BWH Hotels, a leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, continues to strengthen its presence in the Philippines with the relaunch of the renovated Best Western Plus Hotel Subic, an elevated hotel that overlooks the sea and sunset on the west coast of Luzon Island.

Part of the BWH Hotels portfolio since its opening in 2018, Best Western Plus Hotel Subic has reopened following an extensive revitalisation that will re-establish it as one of the leading destinations in Subic – a dynamic freeport zone and popular tourist resort just 2.5 hours’ drive from Manila.

The redesigned Best Western Plus Hotel Subic now features bright and stylish interiors, international amenities and exceptional event spaces. Travellers can relax in contemporary king or twin rooms, stay connected with fast and free Wi-Fi, chill out at the sea-facing rooftop pool and deck, and work out at the well-equipped fitness centre. Two inviting restaurants offer fresh local and international cuisine throughout the day, and the hotel’s dedicated events hall sets the stage for business and social gatherings, including weddings.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests back to Best Western Plus Hotel Subic following the property’s major refurbishment. With its prime location in the heart of this emerging destination, including a spectacular pool deck and sea views, this is set to become the hotel-of-choice for local and overseas visitors to Subic Bay, including our global network of Best Western Rewards® members,” said  BWH Hotels Vice President – APAC Olivier Berrivin.

Best Western Plus Hotel Subic joins the existing portfolio of BWH Hotels in the Philippines, which comprises six hotels and resorts spread across a wide range of vibrant cities and resort destinations, including guest-favoured Best Western Plus properties in Clark, Panglao, and Puerto Princesa.

To book a stay with BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit bestwesternasia.com and worldhotels.com.  

Spa Cenvaree unveils Mother’s Day package

BANGKOK, 7 August 2025: Mother’s Day, which falls on 12 August in Thailand, is being celebrated with gift packages from now until 15 August 2025 at the Spa Cenvaree at Centara Grand at CentralWorld.

The invite to celebrate Mum with the ‘Mother’s Day 2025’ spa package offers a 90-minute full-body Aroma Massage using premium essential oils designed to calm the body and mind.

Perfectly timed for a heartfelt gesture, this exclusive gift treatment is offered daily between 0900 and 1900within the tranquil surroundings of Lifestyles on 26, Centara Grand’s renowned wellness sanctuary high above the heart of Bangkok.

Guests who book the Mother’s Day 2025 package will also receive a complimentary gift set from Spa Cenvaree, specially curated to extend the sense of calm and self-care beyond the treatment room — a reminder of your appreciation that she can take home.

This offer is priced at THB 2,990 net per 90 minutes per person, not combinable with any other spa promotions or discounts.

For reservations or more information, contact: 02-100-1234 ext. 6511 or email [email protected] 

Learn more about Spa Cenvaree and stay connected: 

Website: https://www.spacenvaree.com/spa/centara-grand-centralworld-bangkok

(Your Stories Centara Hotels & Resorts). 

A Game Changer for Thailand’s Tourism Sector

BANGKOK, 7 August 2025: Thailand will host the Bangkok 2025 Global Biohealth AI Innovation and Traditional Medicine Fusion Cooperation Summit, projected to attract over 10,000 international delegates.

Taking place from 9 to 11 November 2025 at the QSNCC and the Conrad Bangkok, the summit adopts the theme “We Are the World: Mission and Resources”.

Bangkok 2025 Global Biohealth AI Innovation and Traditional Medicine Fusion Cooperation Summit.

The event brings together global leaders in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and integrated healthcare, from over 30 countries, representing one of Thailand’s most prominent international medical summits ever staged.

Event essentials

Biotech–AI Innovative & Integrated East – West Medicine Global Summit QSNCC & Conrad Bangkok Hotel, Thailand 9 to 11 November 2025 (Charity Gala Dinner on 11 November at Conrad Bangkok)

Official Registration and Details: https://wearetheworldasia.org/ 

Who Should Attend: Healthcare professionals, biotech investors, AI scientists, hospital executives, university researchers, integrative medicine practitioners, tourism boards and press media.

A Game Changer for Thailand’s Tourism Sector

The event directly supports the country’s MICE strategy and medical tourism ambitions, placing Thailand on the map as a convergence hub for global health solutions.

Global Cross-Sector Networking

Thought leaders and experts in AI, biotechnology, and Chinese-Western medicine, including elite institutions, reputable doctors and scientists from Hong Kong, China, the US, and ASEAN, will attend the event.

Breakthrough medical insights

Introduces the latest cutting-edge therapies for chronic and “incurable” conditions, including cancer, autism, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, lupus, and diabetes.

Asia’s advantage

Presents Asia’s natural resources and shows how the region is positioned to support integrative therapies and cost-efficient treatment models.

Strategic business opportunities

Attendees will gain access to co-investment projects, clinical trials, and Asia’s growing medical innovation ecosystem, including preferred entry to the “Doctor Hero Alliance”.

About the author 
Andrew J Wood is a veteran tourism and hospitality professional with over 40 years of global experience. Based in Bangkok since 1991, he is a renowned travel business writer and a past President of Skål International Bangkok and Asia.

Vietjet delivers strong 2Q and 1H performances

SINGAPORE, 7 August 2025: Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company (HOSE: VJC) has exceeded expectations with robust results for Q2 2025, marking a strong first half of the year for the new-age carrier. 

Highlights of the quarter include major aircraft orders, the expansion of ground self-service operations, and a successful bid for a strategic development project at Long Thanh International Airport, which is poised to become Vietnam’s new aviation hub. 

Photo credit: Vietjet. Vietjet ends 2Q2025 with revenue exceeding targets and new orders for the latest aircraft.

For global travellers and industry observers, Vietjet’s continued growth and increasing international footprint come at a time when demand for affordable, well-connected air travel is surging across the Asia-Pacific region. The airline was once again named the “World’s Best Ultra Low-Cost Carrier” by AirlineRatings and ranked among the safest airlines globally.

Q2 Highlights     

According to its Q2 2025 results, Vietjet recorded aviation revenue of VND17.681 trillion (SGD870.05 million), a pre-tax profit of VND775 billion (SGD38.10 million ), representing a 52.3% Year-on-Year (YoY) increase. 

Total consolidated revenue reached VND17.885 trillion (SGD879.74 million), with pre-tax profit climbing to VND815 billion (SGD40.09 million), representing a remarkable YoY growth of 151.5%.

With four direct routes connecting Singapore and Vietnam, Vietjet is well-positioned for continued growth and sustainable development in the second half of 2025. 

Half-Year Revenue Highlights     

Vietjet posted strong performance in the first half of 2025, achieving 78% and 75% of its full-year separate and consolidated pre-tax profit targets, respectively.

Aviation revenue of VND35.6 trillion (SGD1.75 billion) and a pre-tax profit of nearly VND1.6 trillion (SGD78.71 million), up 37%.

Consolidated revenue reached VND35.8 trillion (approx. SGD1.76 billion), with consolidated pre-tax profit exceeding VND1.6 trillion (SGD78.71 million ), a 65% YoY growth. 

Total assets exceeded VND112.33 trillion (SGD5.53 billion). The airline maintained a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.76 and a liquidity ratio of 1.44, signalling strong financial health.

Cash reserves, bank deposits, cash equivalents, and short-term investments surpassed VND9.001 trillion (SGD442.43 million), supported by working capital credit lines that ensured adequate liquidity.

1H2025 Operation Highlights

By the end of Q2, Vietjet Airlines operated a total of 189 routes (154 routes operated by Vietjet and 35 by Vietjet Thailand).

Vietjet, including Vietjet Thailand, transported 17.7 million passengers on 99,202 flights.

The airline maintained a technical reliability rate of 99.53%.

 The total cargo volume transported reached nearly 65,200 tons.

Strategic Expansion

In Q2 2025, Vietjet launched its fourth Singapore-Vietnam service, linking Singapore to Phu Quoc with four weekly flights. Vietjet marked a new milestone in its international growth strategy, launching direct flights from Nha Trang to three key Russian cities. The airline also expanded its footprint in China, India, and Japan, while increasing domestic flight frequencies at select airports.

Modern Fleet Investment 

Building on its strong performance, Vietjet continued to modernise its fleet with significant aircraft investments. During French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Vietnam, the airline ordered 20 additional A330neo widebodies from Airbus, raising its total to 40, the most significant A330neo order globally. 

At the 2025 Paris Air Show, Vietjet signed the show’s largest deal: an order for 100 A321neo aircraft and 50 purchase options, ranking it among the world’s top 10 airlines by order volume.

SOTC expands its Kolkata sales outlets

MUMBAI, 7 August 2025: SOTC Travel, a leading multi-channel travel company, announced on Tuesday the opening of a new sales branch in Tollygunge, Kolkata. 

The latest addition expands SOTC’s network to seven outlets, reiterating the company’s strategic focus to expand its footprint in the city.

Photo credit: SOTC. SOTC opens its seventh in-person sales outlet in Kolkata, India.

Kolkata is a key source market for SOTC Travel’s growing customer segments in West Bengal and East India. The new outlet has been strategically chosen based on its viable location and connectivity to serve both leisure and business segments, while extending its reach to key surrounding markets such as Garia and Behala.

SOTC Travel’s outlets offer end-to-end travel solutions with an array of services, including international and domestic holidays (Group tours, Personalised Holidays, Cruises, etc.), as well as Value-Added Services like travel insurance.

Kolkata Travel Trends

Top destinations

Domestic & Indian Subcontinent: Andaman, Kerala, Sri Lanka & Bhutan; darshans to Manasarovar and Char Dham.
International: Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Bali, Philippines, Egypt, South Africa and South America.

Preferences 

There is a high interest in experiential holidays, including Northern Lights in Scandinavia and Murmansk, Iceland, Antarctica, river cruising, and self-drive holidays.

Top customer segments

Multi-generational families, working professionals & GenS

Average holiday duration 

3-5 days for domestic/short haul, 12-13 days for mid/long haul

Strong travel interest during the Durga Pujo* holidays 

International — Europe, Australia, Africa, Singapore, Malaysia; 
Domestic and South Asia — Kerala, Andaman, Sri Lanka.

* Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Shaaradotsava, is an annual festival originating in the Indian subcontinent which pays homage to the Hindu goddess Durga. It is the biggest festival of Bengali Hindus in the Indian state of West Bengal.
Festival dates: Sunday, 28 September to 2 October, 2025. (Source: Wikipedia).

Cathay Pacific resumes Brussels flights

HONG KONG, 7 August 2025: Cathay Pacific returned to the Belgian capital on 3 August with the launch of its four-times-weekly flights between Hong Kong and Brussels. 

The new service, first announced in December 2024, resumed earlier this week, reestablishing a direct airline link between the airline’s home city and the Heart of Europe, offering customers even greater choice, connectivity and convenience.

Photo credit Cathay Group. Brussels is back in CX’s Europe network.

With its return to Brussels and increased flight frequencies on other routes, Cathay Pacific is operating close to 100 return flights per week between Hong Kong and Europe during the summer peak season. 

This includes five daily flights to London, daily flights to Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Manchester, Milan, Paris and Zurich, four weekly flights to Barcelona, Brussels, Madrid and Munich, and three weekly flights to Rome.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “We are very pleased to be back in Brussels, directly connecting our home hub with one of Europe’s major political centres and a tourism destination that’s steeped in history and culture. Our new service offers excellent flight timings in both directions, enabling customers to wake up refreshed with a full day ahead, whether they are arriving in Brussels or Hong Kong.

“Cathay has a long history in Europe stretching back more than four decades. This year alone, we have launched services to three new destinations in Europe, with new flights to Rome and Munich having already taken off in June. With increased frequencies to other popular European cities this summer as well, we’re making it even easier for customers to travel between Asia and Europe.”

Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong-Brussels flights are operated with the airline’s Airbus A350-900, one of the most advanced aircraft in its fleet. The A350-900 offers fully flat beds in Business, spacious seats in Premium Economy and extended comfort in the airline’s award-winning Economy.

Customers in all cabins can experience the world’s best inflight entertainment1 and connect to high-speed inflight Wi-Fi. Customers travelling in Business class, as well as Cathay Diamond members, enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access when flying with Cathay Pacific.

The flight schedule is as follows (all times local):

Customers travelling from Europe to Hong Kong can also benefit from seamless connections through the Cathay Group’s home hub, Hong Kong International Airport. Together, Cathay Pacific and its low-cost carrier, HK Express, operate passenger flights to over 100 destinations worldwide, with 23 destinations in the Chinese Mainland alone. Customers can also enjoy seamless connections to other major cities within the Greater Bay Area through direct air-to-sea and air-to-land intermodal services via the SkyPier Terminal at Hong Kong International Airport.

Aeroflot increases flights to Nha Trang

HANOI, 7 August 2025: Aeroflot will increase flights from four to five weekly between the Russian capital Moscow and Nha Trang, a popular beach resort in southern Vietnam, effective 15 August.

The new flight will depart from Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport every Friday, increasing flights from four to five weekly. By 22 September, another flight will be added, departing from Moscow on Mondays. Finally, on 1 October, an additional flight will be introduced on Wednesdays, giving the airline daily frequencies on the route to Nha Trang.

Photo credit: Airbus.

Aeroflot launched scheduled air service to Nha Trang for the first time in March 2025. Nha Trang is the second destination in Vietnam served by Aeroflot from Moscow. The airline also operates flights to Ho Chi Minh City.

The airline deploys an A350-900 on the route with a flight time of 10 hours and 10 minutes outbound from SVO to CXR and 11 hours and 15 minutes on the return flight from CXR to SVO.

The up-to-date schedule is available on Aeroflot’s website. Tickets for the new flights to Nha Trang are on sale at Aeroflot’s website, its mobile app or through the airline’s sales offices or ticket sales agents. International sales are blocked on popular booking sites such as Booking.com.

TTRW checked flights on Skyscanner, entering dates of travel for a round-trip between Moscow and Nha Trang. The request for flight details and fare content was blocked with the following red flag message. 

“In the context of international sanctions, we are currently unable to display content that involves travelling to, from or within Russia. We are monitoring the situation closely and will resume operating when we can. We sincerely hope that a peaceful end can be brought to this situation soon.”

Flight schedule

SU0294 departs Moscow (SVO) at 1920 and arrives in Nha Trang (CXR)* at 0930 plus a day. Daily.
SU0295 departs Nha Trang (CXR) at 1130 and arrives in Moscow (SVO) at 1845. Daily. 
*Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR).

In 2024, Aeroflot carried 30.1 million passengers (55.3 million when including all Aeroflot Group airlines).

Dusit International expands Saudi portfolio 

BANGKOK, 6 August 2025: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has signed a hotel management agreement with Al Ghadeer Group to operate dusitD2 Al Ahsa – a new upper-upscale resort in the heart of Al Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.

The signing ceremony, held under the esteemed patronage of HRH Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr Al Saud, Governor of Al Ahsa, was attended by dignitaries including Naif Al Madi, Chief Business Officer of the Tourism Development Fund; Sheikh Bassem Al Ghadeer, Chairman of Al Ghadeer Group of Companies; and Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International.

The signing ceremony was held under the esteemed patronage of HRH Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr Al Saud, Governor of Al Ahsa.
From left: Mr Shadi El Ghoneimi and Mr Omar El Ghoneimi, El Ghoneimi Architects; Mr Elias Maalouf, AVP Technical Services & Development – EMEA, Dusit International; Sheikh Bassem Al Ghadeer – Chairman Al Ghadeer Group; HRH Prince Saud bin Talal Al Saud, Governor of Al Ahsa Province; Mr Naif Al Madi, Chief Business Officer, Tourism Development Fund; Mr Ossama Al Hattami, VP – Hospitality, Dusit Saudi; Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International; and Mr Khaled Al Hattami, Chief Executive Officer, Dusit Saudi.

Located just 30 minutes by car from Al Ahsa International Airport and 90 minutes from Dammam, dusitD2 Al Ahsa is set amidst palm-fringed landscapes and dramatic mountain vistas. The resort will offer 120 spacious suites, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom configurations, each with a private terrace and plunge pool, providing an elevated sense of privacy and relaxation.

Designed by Cairo-based El Ghoneimi Architects, the resort’s masterplan draws inspiration from the desert’s timeless beauty, the nearby mountains, and the life-giving symbolism of the palm tree – more than 2.5 million of which thrive in Al Ahsa Oasis. Organic architectural forms, natural textures, and bespoke interiors that blend cultural authenticity with refined comfort will create a tranquil retreat rooted in local identity.

Guests will enjoy a comprehensive range of premium facilities, including a wellness centre with private treatment rooms, meditation areas, and dedicated spaces for yoga and holistic healing; an elegant 1,500 sq m ballroom and expansive outdoor event lawn for weddings and large social or corporate gatherings; well-equipped meeting rooms for business travellers; a vibrant all-day dining restaurant; a lobby café offering light gourmet fare; a large outdoor swimming pool with an adjoining kids’ pool; and a dedicated kids club providing engaging activities in a safe and stimulating environment.

Surrounded by cultural and ecological treasures such as Al Qarah Mountain, Juatha Park, and the historic Qaisariah Souq, the resort is ideally positioned to serve as a gateway for domestic and international travellers seeking meaningful experiences and immersive stays amid the largest oasis in the world.

“This important signing reflects our strategic commitment to bringing Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to key destinations worldwide and our dedication to delivering sustainable value for the communities we serve,” said Dusit International Chief Operating Officer Gilles Cretallaz. “We are delighted to partner with Al Ghadeer Group to create a destination that celebrates Al Ahsa’s rich heritage and natural beauty while offering exceptional comfort, modern luxury, responsible design, and memorable experiences for guests of all ages.”

Set to open in 2027, dusitD2 Al Ahsa underscores Dusit International’s continued expansion in the Middle East, where the company currently operates nine properties and continues to explore opportunities to deliver holistic hospitality experiences across the region. It is the second Dusit-branded property confirmed for Saudi Arabia, following the upcoming opening of Dusit Princess Al Majma’ah, Riyadh, scheduled for Q4 this year.

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 memorable stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes close to 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, 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. 

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification. For more information, visit dusit-international.com

MOVE supports ASEAN with its SNAP Campaign

KUALA LUMPUR, 6 August 2025: MOVE, Asean’s homegrown online travel agency (OTA) platform, launched its “Explore ASEAN” SNAP (Flight + Hotel) Campaign on Monday to celebrate the 58th ASEAN Day on 8 August. 

The announcement was made during the ASEAN National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) and Related Meetings held on Monday in Boracay, Philippines.

The campaign offers bundled flight and hotel deals, designed to encourage affordable and accessible travel across Southeast Asia. In the spirit of ASEAN Day, “Explore ASEAN” invites travellers to discover the region’s vibrant cultures, hidden gems, and unique experiences through the MOVE app. Travellers can also enjoy MYR60 off their SNAP bookings by using the promo code SNAPNOW on the app.

As an OTA born and bred in ASEAN and for ASEAN, MOVE connects travellers to over 700 airlines, one million hotels, airport transfers, travel insurance, and even concerts and sports events, all through one mobile-first app designed for the new generation of ASEAN travellers.

MOVE Chief Marketing Officer Ravi Shankar shared the concept: “It reflects our active commitment to making travel more inclusive, more affordable, and more meaningful for everyone in the region. And at MOVE, our goal is simple: to enable everyone to Travel More for Less.”