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Air India and Azerbaijan sign codeshare pact

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MUMBAI, 12 August 2026: Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines, part of AZCON Holding, have entered into a new codeshare partnership. 

The cooperation offers greater flexibility, enhanced connectivity, and more convenient travel options between Azerbaijan and India, as well as onward destinations through both airlines’ networks, while strengthening business, tourism, and cultural ties between the two countries.

Photo credit: Air India.

The new codeshare partnership enables Air India to place its ‘AI’ designator code on Azerbaijan Airlines-operated flights between India and Baku, thus opening Baku as a new destination for Air India customers, a market currently not served by Air India’s own metal.

Under this codeshare, Air India’s ‘AI’ code will be applied to Azerbaijan Airlines daily flights operating between Delhi and Baku, and between Mumbai and Baku. Customers from Delhi, Mumbai, and beyond can now travel conveniently to Baku with an Air India ticket on an Air India-operated flight by Azerbaijan Airlines.

The codeshare agreement builds on an existing interline agreement between the two carriers, which allows customers of both airlines to travel seamlessly on a single itinerary that combines flights operated by both carriers. For instance, a passenger travelling from Bangkok can fly Air India to Delhi and, with one itinerary, seamlessly connect onward to Baku on an Azerbaijan Airlines service.

Air India Chief Commercial Officer, Nipun Aggarwal, said: “Through this codeshare, our customers travelling to Baku will enjoy convenience and reliability from booking their ticket to check-in and touchdown. This is part of a broader effort to keep strengthening connectivity between India and the rest of the world.”

Azerbaijan Airlines Chief Commercial Officer, Jamil Manizade said: “India is one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets and an increasingly important destination for both business and leisure travel. Our partnership with Air India is an important step in expanding Azerbaijan Airlines’ international connectivity through strategic partnerships.”

Since its privatisation in 2022, Air India has significantly expanded its global alliance network. Today, the airline maintains 26 codeshare partnerships and more than 120 interline agreements with leading carriers worldwide, providing Air India customers with seamless access to over 1,000 destinations.

(Source: Air India)

THAI returns to Xiamen this October

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BANGKOK, 12 August 2026: Thai Airways International will resume direct service between Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) starting 25 October 2026.

In an announcement posted on the airline’s Facebook page, the airline says it will schedule four weekly flights (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday). Flights on Sunday have different departure times from those on other days.

Photo credit: THAI.

Flights are listed for booking for the winter timetable schedule from 25 October 2026 through 27 March 2027.

The service restores direct connectivity between the Thai capital and China’s Fujian province, targeting both business travel and regional leisure travel to coastal spots such as Gulangyu Island. Xiamen is a major scenic port and special economic island city on the southeast coast of China.

TG previously operated direct flights on the Bangkok (BKK) – Xiamen (XMN) route until 25 March 2020, when global aviation operations stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which closed borders and disrupted travel for two years.  

Thai Airways suspended its entire international network to mainland China — including Xiamen, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Kunming — due to global border shutdowns, strict quarantine mandates, and plummeting travel demand at the onset of the pandemic.  

But THAI compounded its troubles when it entered court-supervised debt restructuring in late 2020. To reduce operating costs, the airline retired older aircraft types and temporarily consolidated its network around core trunk routes as post-pandemic travel gradually reopened.

Priority was given to high-volume secondary destinations and primary capital routes. The delay in resuming Xiamen service until October 2026 aligns with the delivery schedule for new narrow-body aircraft (such as the Airbus A321neo), which are better suited to serve regional Chinese routes than larger wide-body jets.

Flight Schedule

TG610 departs Bangkok (BKK) at 1040 and arrives in Xiamen (XMN) at 1505 (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday).
TG610 departs Bangkok (BKK) at 1235 and arrives in Xiamen (XMN) at 1700 (Sunday).

TG611 departs Xiamen (XMN) at 1610 and arrives in Bangkok (BKK) at 1830 (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday).
TG611 departs Xiamen (XMN) at 1755 and arrives in Bangkok (BKK at 2015 (Sunday).

THAI will compete head-on with China’s Xiamen Airlines, the dominant carrier on the BKK-XMN route, offering 21 weekly flights using an A321neo with 208 seats. It schedules daily departures from Xiamen at 0150, 1215, and 1740.

Xiamen Airlines also has an interline agreement with Bangkok Airways, offering connections to domestic holiday destinations such as Krabi, Samui, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

THAI flies the route four times weekly using an A321neo with 175 seats. Flight time on the route is three hours and 25 minutes. The average round-trip fare is USD330.

(Source: THAI with additional reporting)

Langkawi connects with Earth Day theme

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Your Stories
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LANGKAWI, 11 August 2026: Earth Day’s global theme, “Our Power, Our Planet”, reminds us that meaningful change begins with how we choose to connect with the world around us, and few experiences capture that connection quite like Kubang Badak BioGeo Trail.

Tucked away on Langkawi’s quieter side, Kubang Badak offers visitors a chance to experience the island through a different lens: slower, deeper, and more thoughtfully. Set within a tidal river estuary framed by mangrove forests and dramatic limestone formations, the trail is home to 13 points of interest that uncover the rich natural, geological and cultural heritage of the area.

Explored by boat or kayak, the journey winds through calm mangrove channels where travellers can take in the stillness of the landscape while learning about the ecosystem and conservation efforts

that continue to protect it. Along the route, visitors encounter remnants of Langkawi’s past—from century-old charcoal kilns in Kampung Siam to ancient geosites shaped by time and tide.

One of the trail’s most fascinating stops is Pinang Cave, a remnant of a sea cave believed to have formed nearly 6,000 years ago. Perched 15 metres above sea level, the cave still contains oyster and cockle shells embedded within its surroundings — evidence of ancient sea level changes that once shaped the island’s coastline.

For those looking to savour the journey quite literally, a stop at the Langkawi Oyster Farm offers the opportunity to enjoy freshly harvested oysters and mussels, served at the water’s edge and only accessible by boat.

But beyond its scenic beauty and hidden gems, Kubang Badak represents something greater. Developed as part of Langkawi’s commitment to knowledge tourism, the BioGeo Trail offers visitors a more meaningful way to engage with the island — one rooted in learning, conservation, and sustainable exploration.

In the spirit of Our Power, Our Planet, Kubang Badak reminds us that our greatest power lies in how we choose to experience places like these. By embracing slower, more conscious travel, we not only deepen our appreciation for nature but also help protect it. The best way to honour our planet is to experience its wonders with care.

For more information on Langkawi, visit: 2026 – Naturally Langkawi. 

(Source: LADA)

APASS 2027: Shaping the future of safe aviation

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KUALA LUMPUR, 11 August, 2026: Preparations are well underway for the Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar 2027 (APASS 2027), which will take place from 7 to 9 September 2027 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Organised by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) and hosted by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), APASS 2027 will bring together aviation leaders, safety professionals, regulators, aircraft and engine manufacturers, maintenance organisations, air navigation service providers, training organisations and technology partners from across the Asia Pacific region and beyond.

Recognised as the Asia Pacific region’s flagship aviation safety forum, APASS is led by airlines, providing a unique platform for the exchange of operational experience, collaborative problem-solving and the sharing of practical safety initiatives.

Under the theme Shaping the Future of Safe Aviation, APASS 2027 will explore how the aviation community can collectively shape the future of safe aviation by embracing emerging technologies, strengthening operational resilience, advancing human performance and fostering collaboration across the global aviation community.

The three-day programme will feature keynote addresses, plenary discussions, specialist technical streams and interactive workshops covering a broad range of contemporary operational issues, including:

  1. Flight operations;
  2. Engineering and maintenance;
  3. Cabin safety and aviation security;
  4. Human factors and organisational resilience;
  5. Artificial intelligence, digital transformation and risk management;
  6. Emerging technologies, sustainability and regional collaboration.

Commenting on APASS 2027, AAPA Director General Wong Hong said: “The Asia Pacific region continues to lead global aviation growth, bringing with it both tremendous opportunities and increasingly complex operational challenges. APASS 2027 reflects our collective commitment to shaping the future of safe aviation through innovation, strong leadership, operational resilience and trusted collaboration across the aviation community.”

Malaysia Airlines Group welcomes the opportunity to host APASS in Kuala Lumpur and strengthen regional partnerships to advance aviation safety. 

MAG President and Group Chief Executive Officer Captain Nasaruddin A Bakar said: “As the aviation industry continues to evolve, maintaining the highest standards of safety requires a shared commitment to continuous learning and collaboration. At MAG, these principles guide the way we operate every day, and we look forward to engaging with industry partners to exchange operational experience, share best practices and strengthen aviation safety across the region.”

The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has also expressed its support for APASS 2027, recognising the importance of regional collaboration in implementing international aviation safety standards.

Building on more than two decades of success, APASS 2027 will continue to provide practical operational insights and collaborative solutions that help shape the future of safe aviation.

APASS 2027

7 to 9 September 2027
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

(Source: Association of Asia Pacific Airlines)

IHG Hotels & Resorts brings Kimpton to Phang Nga

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BANGKOK,11 August 2026: IHG Hotels & Resorts confirms the signing of Kimpton Phang-Nga Natai Beach, a new-build resort, under development by Natai Venture Co Ltd.

Set to open in 2028, the 150-key beachfront resort will introduce the Kimpton brand to Phang Nga, one of Thailand’s emerging coastal destinations.

Photo credit: IHG.

The latest signing strengthens IHG’s growing presence in southern Thailand. It adds to a strong pipeline of future Kimpton properties across Thailand, including Bangkok, Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Khao Yai and Pattaya.

Kimpton Phang-Nga Natai Beach will feature 150 rooms, suites, and villas, along with all-day restaurants, beach and lobby bars, a spa, swimming pools, a fitness centre, a kids’ club, and versatile function spaces.

Located on Natai Beach in Phang Nga, a 30-minute commute from Phuket International Airport, the resort is well positioned to capitalise on the destination’s growing appeal. 

The upcoming Andaman International Airport in Phang Nga, scheduled to open in 2032, will enhance regional connectivity and support the region’s long-term growth as a vibrant travel destination.

IHG currently operates 42 hotels across 11 brands in Thailand, with a further 39 properties in the pipeline, and is committed to introducing new brands and new stay experiences across the country. Kimpton Phang Nga Natai Beach is the second IHG resort to be signed in Phang Nga after InterContinental Phang Nga Bay Resort.

(Source: IHG)

Agoda maps Indonesia holiday searches

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 11 August 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda revealed that domestic travel interest increased more than fourfold, according to search data for the upcoming Indonesian Independence Day long weekend, taking place from 15 to 17 August, as Indonesian travellers begin to plan their getaways. 

While favourites like Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Bali remain the most-searched accommodations, the popularity of nature-oriented regional holiday spots in West Java, such as Pangandaran, Garut, and Anyer, is also rising.

Top 10 domestic destinations for Independence Day long weekend 2026 – Agoda

  • Bandung
  • Yogyakarta
  • Bali
  • Jakarta
  • Puncak
  • Malang
  • Pangandaran
  • Anyer
  • Bogor
  • Garut

Agoda’s search data shows that cultural and leisure hotspots continue to draw the highest interest for one of Indonesia’s most celebrated holidays. Travellers can enjoy not only famous attractions related to nature, culture, and culinary experiences, but also take part in Independence Day-themed activities at these destinations, from visiting museums and monuments to exploring historic sites.

Earning the top spot was Bandung, offering a popular short-break destination for those travelling from nearby Jakarta and surrounding areas, with renowned historical landmarks such as Gedung Sate, Monumen Bandung Lautan Api, and Gedung Merdeka. 

Meanwhile, Yogyakarta, ranking second, makes an ideal destination for cultural heritage, sightseeing, and family-friendly attractions such as Benteng Vredeburg, Istana Kepresidenan Gedung Agung, and Monumen Jogja Kembali. 

Finally, as Indonesia’s flagship holiday destination, Bali ranked third, appealing to domestic travellers seeking a beach and resort getaway.

Jakarta, ranking fourth, saw nearly a three-fold increase in travel interest as the capital hosts the centre of Indonesia’s Independence Day celebrations. Beyond the festivities, the city continues to attract travellers with its urban attractions, culinary experiences, and staycation options.

Nature-led short-drive getaways lead the growth in searches

Agoda also reports that regional destinations in West Java saw the highest increase in searches during the long holiday weekend. Pangandaran and Anyer saw increases of more than nine- and 10-fold in travel interest.

Cool-weather escapes draw steady travel interest

Agoda’s data also reveals that destinations offering cool weather, scenic hillside views, and diverse culinary offerings are also appealing to domestic travellers seeking a quick getaway during the upcoming Independence Day long weekend. Puncak, Malang, and Bogor have seen a four- to five-fold increase in travel interest, offering accessible, family-friendly leisure options. Malang specifically features amusement parks, a zoo, and museums, making it an ideal holiday for all ages.

Agoda Senior Country Director, Indonesia, Gede Gunawan shared: “The fourfold increase in travel interest during this year’s Independence Day holiday shows just how eager Indonesians are to make the most of the long weekend by travelling and making memories with family and friends. While iconic destinations like Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Bali remain enduring favourites, it’s also exciting to see rising travel interest in alternative getaways such as Pangandaran, Garut, and Anyer, as travellers look for destinations that are close to major cities, more affordable, less congested, and rich in different kinds of travel experiences.”

(Source: Agoda)

Hanoi’s Sofitel celebrates 125 years

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HANOI, Vietnam, 11 August 2026: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a varied programme of immersive experiences throughout 2026. 

Under the theme “125 Years of a Legend,” celebrations blend culture, artistry, entertainment, gastronomy and hospitality to elevate experiential luxury in the capital. The Metropole’s “Live the Legend” experience features a series of curated stays, along with inspired gastronomic and wellness journeys, designed to immerse guests in the heritage and glamour of Hanoi’s Grande Dame.

Photo credit: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

“We are thrilled to open a new chapter in the Metropole’s legendary story,” said Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi General Manager George Koumendakos. “This anniversary allows us to honour that remarkable legacy while inviting guests to experience the timeless soul of the Metropole in fresh, unforgettable ways as we look confidently to the future.”

‘Live the Legend’ Stay Experience

Guests can embrace quiet luxury and create treasured memories with the “Live the Legend Experience,” a stay inspired by the Metropole’s 125-year legacy. This package includes a lavish daily breakfast buffet for two, an elevated Vietnamese lunch at Spice Garden for two, and the exclusive Path of History (and bomb shelter) tour guided by the hotel’s resident historian.

Additional benefits include guaranteed early check-in from 1100 and late check-out until 1400, and a complimentary upgrade to the next non-suite room category, subject to availability. The offer is valid for bookings and stays from now until 30 September, with a minimum stay of two nights.

A prominent fixture in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has long been a luxury venue for prestigious events and a popular rendezvous for business and leisure travellers, including playwrights, ambassadors, royalty, and heads of state.

The hotel includes 358 rooms, divided into two wings — the Heritage Wing, dating back to 1901, and the neo-classical Opera Wing. 

(Source: Sofitel Legend Metropole)

Jetstar updates its carry-on baggage model

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Newsdesk
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11 August 2026: The move will see Jetstar shift from a strict weight limit to a simpler, size-based carry-on baggage model, similar to other leading low-fares carriers around the world.

From next year, all bookings will include one underseat bag such as a backpack, handbag or laptop bag.

Photo credit: Jetstar.

Customers who need more carry-on baggage can pre-purchase Priority Carry-on, which includes a second, larger bag for the overhead locker and the opportunity to be among the first to board.

The change follows extensive research and feedback from customers and crew who consistently identified having bags weighed at the gate and struggling to find room in overhead lockers as the more stressful parts of the airport experience.

Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said: “We know that weighing carry-on bags at the gate can be frustrating for our customers and for our crew.”

“To make packing easier, we’ve decided to remove the 7kg weight limit, so from February, the main thing customers will need to think about is the size of their carry-on.”

“By giving customers an underseat bag with the option to add Priority Carry-on, we can make better use of overhead locker space, streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time.”

“Our new carry-on baggage model provides more choice to customers while helping to keep our fares low. You only pay for what you need – travelling with less means paying less, and you can always add more if you need.”

What’s changing for flights departing from 2 February 2027

Every Jetstar Airways booking will include one underseat bag, such as a backpack, handbag, or laptop bag, at no extra cost.

Customers who need more carry-on baggage or whose bags do not meet the underseat size requirements can purchase Priority Carry-on, which allows a second, larger bag in the overhead locker and lets them board first.

Jetstar will no longer routinely use cabin baggage scales but asks customers to keep carry-on bags to 10kg so they can lift them themselves safely. At no extra cost, customers travelling with an infant can take an additional underseat bag for their baby’s items.

The size limits for each option are:

 Underseat bag (included in every fare): up to 40 × 30 × 20cm

Overhead bag (available with Priority Carry-on): up to 56 × 36 × 23cm, and be among the first to board

Priority Carry-on is limited and starts at AUD25 one-way on selected flights and can vary; for example, there are no changes to Jetstar’s checked baggage allowance, which remains purchasable for up to 40kg per passenger.

This change applies to all Jetstar Airways (JQ) flights departing from 2 February 2027, excluding group bookings (10+ passengers). Customers with existing bookings after that date will be upgraded to include Priority Carry-on at no cost. Carry-on changes will not apply to Jetstar Japan (GK) operated flights.

(Source: Jetstar)

Conrad Kuala Lumpur accepting reservations

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 11 August 2026: Conrad Kuala Lumpur is now accepting reservations ahead of its anticipated opening in late 2026, marking the debut of Conrad Hotels & Resorts in Malaysia.

As Hilton’s largest luxury brand, Conrad is celebrated worldwide for seamlessly blending bold design with intuitive service while creating meaningful connections with each destination. With this first step into the country, Conrad Kuala Lumpur redefines luxury for a new generation of travellers, offering opportunities for discovery and experiences that feel both personal and purposeful.

Photo credit: Conrad Kuala Lumpur.

Located in Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant Golden Triangle, the hotel will bring the brand’s contemporary luxury hospitality to the heart of the city, through locally inspired art and design, world-class dining, curated local experiences, and skyline views.

Key landmarks such as the Twin Towers, KL Tower, and the popular Bukit Bintang shopping district are less than a 10-minute drive away, with Bukit Bintang just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Connectivity is seamless, with Raja Chulan Monorail Station steps away from the hotel and Bukit Bintang MRT Station within 750 metres.

Conrad Kuala Lumpur is located at 25 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur 50250, Malaysia.

“As the first Conrad hotel in Malaysia, Conrad Kuala Lumpur represents an exciting new chapter for the brand and for luxury hospitality in the capital,” said Conrad Kuala Lumpur General Manager, Paola Caciolli. 

“Kuala Lumpur is a city shaped by heritage, creativity and constant movement, and our hotel has been designed to help guests discover those layers in a thoughtful and inspiring way. From design and dining to wellness and curated local experiences, Conrad Kuala Lumpur will offer a stay that feels deeply connected to the city while delivering the intuitive service and contemporary luxury that define Conrad.”

The hotel will feature 481 rooms and suites, ranging from 40 sqm deluxe rooms to the expansive 220 sqm Conrad Suite. Conrad Kuala Lumpur will also offer six dining and bar venues.

As part of its exclusive pre-opening offer, Hilton Honours members will enjoy a special rate for stays between 1 February 2027 and 31 July 2027 with breakfast (up to two persons) and 15,000 points, applicable for a minimum two-night stay.

(Source: Hilton)

Etihad extends African codeshares

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 11 August 2026: Etihad Airways has recently signed three partnership agreements with African airlines: an interline agreement with Fastjet in Zimbabwe, followed by agreements with Air Peace in Nigeria and Africa World Airlines in Ghana. 

The interline agreement with Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, signed in Lagos on 22 July, opens 20 destinations across Nigeria, West and Central Africa to Etihad’s guests. 

Photo credit: Etihad.

The Memorandum of Understanding with Africa World Airlines, the Accra-based carrier serving Ghana and the wider region, signed in Accra on 24 July, sets out cooperation across codeshare, interline, cargo and loyalty.

Fastjet Zimbabwe extends Etihad’s reach into Southern Africa ahead of the airline’s Harare flights. 

The July agreements also build on Etihad’s strategic joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines, and together they enable Etihad to carry its guests far beyond the destinations it serves with its own aircraft.

The African partnerships follow a deliberate sequence. In April, Etihad announced six new destinations across the continent, positioning Abu Dhabi as an efficient corridor between Africa, India and Asia for guests and for cargo, where demand is outpacing supply in trade-linked sectors. The new partnerships mean that when those routes launch, guests will be able to connect onward across West and Southern Africa from day one. The timing mirrors the UAE’s own deepening ties with the continent, exemplified by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement signed with Nigeria in January 2026.

Etihad Airways Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer, Arik De, said: “Africa is one of the fastest-growing aviation regions in the world, and this month we have moved quickly to grow with it. Three agreements in July, each shaped to its market: the reach of Fastjet in Southern Africa, the breadth of Air Peace’s network and the depth of a strategic framework with Africa World Airlines. When our new African routes take off, the partner network behind them will already be in place.”

(Source: Etihad)

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