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Nok Air revives its India-bound flights

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BANGKOK, 20 August 2024: Starting 27 October, Nok Air plans to fly daily from its home base at Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Mumbai in India.

The daily flights will use a Boeing 737-800 with 189 seats. The airline, which has been subject to a delisting warning by the Thailand Stock Exchange for alleged delays in submitting financial statements, is scheduling daily flights to Mumbai from 27 October 2024 to 29 March 2025. (winter season timetable).

Reservations for the new service opened on 18 August 2024, and a check showed it was possible to book and secure a seat on the new service in November, with the airline quoting a fare of around THB6,746 (USD196.71).

The average roundtrip fare on the DMK-BOM route is USD340. In June, it reached USD471.

Flight Schedule 

Flight DD938 will depart from Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK) at 2205 and arrive in Mumbai (BOM) at 0105 plus a day.
Flight DD939 will depart Mumbai at 0205 and arrive in DMK at 0745.

Nok Air, home-based in DMK, will compete with Thai Lion Air on the DMK-BOM route. Thai Airways International (Suvarnabhumi Airport) flies the BKK-BOM route, and three Indian airlines, Air India and IndGo Vistara, fly the BOM-BKK route. THAI schedules 11 flights weekly, and the three Indian airlines offer daily services. The route’s average fare is USD310.

Nok Air operates four weekly flights from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Hyderabad (HYD) in India since last March. 

Travellers in love with the great outdoors

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 20 August 2024: New research from Arival reveals that outdoor adventure activities remain a popular choice for travellers, with 59% participating in such activities during their trips in 2023.  

The report “The 2024 U.S. Outdoor Adventure & Activities Traveller” surveyed 1,000 US citizens who had travelled in the past year and found that 80% of those participating in outdoor activities were under 55.

“The enduring popularity of outdoor adventure activities demonstrates a consistent desire for these experiences among travellers,” said Arival CEO and co-founder Douglas Quinby. “The fact that three in four travellers who participated in activities rated them as essential to their trip underscores the value these experiences bring to the overall travel journey. This presents a significant opportunity for operators who can deliver high-quality, engaging outdoor experiences.”

The research also highlights the increasing frequency of activity participation, with travellers engaging in an average of four activities per trip in 2023, up from 3.5 in 2019. Water-based activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, lead the pack, with 49% of travellers participating in 2023, up from 20% in 2019. Land-based activities like hiking and biking follow closely, with 48% participation in 2023, compared to 34% in 2019.

Key findings from the report 

Popularity of water sports: Water-based activities were the most popular among those surveyed, with 49% participating in 2023, up from 20% in 2019.

Strong demand for land-based activities: 48% of those surveyed participated in land-based activities in 2023,compared to 34% in 2019.

Younger and more affluent demographic: 80% of activity travellers are under 55, and 30% have incomes over USD150,000.

High spending: Travelers spent an average of USD300 per activity in 2023, more than double the amount spent in 2019 (USD144) — although this is less than the USD404 surge in 2021.

Shifting booking patterns: In 2023, 58% of activity travellers booked their activities within a week of the experience; however, research begins much earlier — around a month before the experience.

Essential to the trip: Three in four travellers who participated in activities rated them as essential to their trip.

Multiple activities per trip: Travelers are engaging in an average of four activities per trip.

Research & planning: Search, online video (YouTube), friends and family and travel websites are the top sources of information, followed by social media.

Polaris Adventures Director of Marketing Paula Weisenbeck provided further insight on the findings.
“We’ve seen firsthand the growing enthusiasm for outdoor activities. People crave authentic, hands-on experiences that get them outside in new and unique ways and create lasting memories. It’s not just about checking off a bucket list item anymore; it’s about connecting with nature, pushing personal boundaries, and sharing unforgettable moments with friends and family.”

Weisenbeck will be a featured speaker at the upcoming Arival 360 conference in San Diego from 30  September to 3 October, where she will share insights on the latest trends in outdoor adventure travel. More information about the event can be found here: https://arival.travel/event/2024-san-diego/

Emirates flies refit B777s to two more cities

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TTR WEEKLY
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DUBAI, 19 August 2024: Emirates will deploy newly retrofitted Boeing 777s to two more cities, Zurich and Riyadh, starting 1 October 2024*. 

The airline will also layer on refurbished B777s to Geneva and Brussels operations, making them the first two cities in its network to sport refreshed B777 cabins on all flights. 

The airline aims to offer customers more of its highly acclaimed Premium Economy product and newly configured business class cabin on the Boeing 777 in the coming weeks and months. 

Enhanced B777s to serve more cities

  • Emirates will operate its retrofitted Boeing 777 on EK85 and EK86 to Zurich starting 1 October 2024*. 
  • Emirates’ enhanced Boeing 777, featuring its latest cabins, will land in Riyadh for the first time, with EK819 and EK820 starting on 1 October 2024*. This will be the first debut of Emirates’ premium economy in the Middle East/GCC. 
  • From 22 September 2024*, Geneva will become the first city in the Emirates network to offer Premium Economy seats and newly refreshed Business Class cabins on all flights, with the introduction of the retrofitted B777 on EK 89 and EK 90.
  • From 9 October 2024*, Emirates will operate its second retrofitted B777 to Brussels on EK 181 and EK 182 six times weekly.

With an expanded list of cities served by the refurbished Boeing 777 and A380 aircraft, Emirates offers customers more choice and a better experience in the skies across every cabin class. The airline plans to serve 28 cities with premium economy by the end of this year. So far, 25 aircraft have been retrofitted, with 17 more to undergo a facelift by December 2024.

The four-class Boeing 777 has six or eight first-class suites, 38 business class seats in a four-abreast arrangement, 24 premium economy seats in a 2-4-2 layout, and 260 economy class seats.

Customers flying in the new Emirates 777 Business Class can look forward to spacious seats, more privacy, and the luxury of uninterrupted sleep with a 180-degree fully reclined flatbed. With the middle seat removed, each 20.7-inch-wide soft leather seat offers aisle access for every customer, in addition to a personal mini-bar, a wooden table for dining or working, multiple charging outlets for personal devices, and new seat button controls.

Customers can expect to enjoy the finest culinary creations with full table service, including Royal Doulton fine bone china and exclusive cutlery, the best champagne and wine selection in the industry, and award-winning in-flight entertainment and service by the airline’s multi-national cabin crew. 

The Emirates Boeing 777 premium economy’s 19.5-inch-wide cream leather seats, complemented by six-way adjustable headrests, offer more comfort with a 38-inch pitch that tilts back 8 inches for a relaxed recline. A calf and footrest support the in-flight cradle position in premium economy for added comfort, accessible in-seat charging points, a wooden dining area, and a side cocktail table.

The Emirates premium economy experience is rounded off with an elevated in-flight dining experience that includes elements inspired by business class, like a welcome drink, fine beverages, and gourmet dishes served on fine tableware.

Tickets can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via both online and offline travel agents.

For more information on the new Emirates Boeing 777, visit:  https://www.emirates.com/english/experience/our-fleet/the-new-boeing-777/  

*Aircraft deployments may be advanced if released earlier from refurbishment.

Discover Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 19 August 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is thrilled to announce its newest property, Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui, welcomed guests on 15 August 2024. 

The 61-key getaway embodies the essence of island life with warm Thai-inspired hospitality and a focus on elevated essentials.

Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui is just a 30-minute drive from Samui International Airport and a 3-minute stroll from Lamai Beach, one of Koh Samui’s longest and most beautiful stretches of coastline. It is characterised by its palm-fringed, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and water sports. For those preferring a more relaxed journey, the resort offers a complimentary tuk-tuk service, adding a touch of local charm.

The resort’s modern loft design sets it apart, offering a fresh and stylish atmosphere throughout the property. This tranquil aesthetic provides a perfect counterpoint to the natural beauty of Koh Samui, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and tropical living, complete with an outdoor swimming pool and waterslide. At the same time, an array of accommodation options are available to cater to the diverse needs of every guest.

“Our team has been working tirelessly to ensure every aspect of the resort is ready to deliver an exceptional experience to our guests. From our soothing accommodations to our carefully curated amenities, we are confident that visitors from around the world will find Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui to be the perfect base for their Koh Samui adventure,” said Supaporn Nounching, General Manager of Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui.

To celebrate its opening, Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui has an exclusive offer valid until 20 December 2024 when booked by 30 September 2024. Enjoy special introductory rates, the flexibility of breakfast for two persons until 1600, THB250 in daily food and drinks credits per room, complimentary 24-hour check-in and check-out, and an additional 15% discount for CentaraThe1 members.

To learn more about this new island hideaway and take advantage of this offer, head to the website to book online at https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centra/csa-opening-offer

MATTA recruits Thai support for VM2026

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR 19 2024: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has strengthened collaboration with the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA) and the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) to promote the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. 

The collaboration deal was inked during the MATTA Management Committee’s recent visit to Bangkok for talks with its counterparts in the two Thai travel agency associations. By working closely with TTAA and ATTA, MATTA seeks to foster a stronger connection and expand promotions between neighbouring countries, increasing the travel experience for visitors worldwide.

Key Highlights

Tourism Exchange Programs: Special initiatives will be developed to encourage travel exchanges and cooperation tour packages, enabling tourists to visit both nations in a single, seamless experience.

Trade Shows and Roadshows: Collaboration in major travel trade events and roadshows to attract international travel agencies and tour operators, emphasising the advantages of visiting the two countries in 2026 and participating in the MATTA Fair in Kuala Lumpur and the Thailand International Travel Fair in Bangkok.

Cultural and Educational Events: Host collaborative events and workshops to educate travel experts and the general public about both destinations’ rich cultural legacy and distinct attractions.

TTAA has made several requests, including the need for direct flights to Sabah and improved promotion of lesser-known Malaysian destinations such as Perak, Melaka, and Kedah, particularly Langkawi.

MATTA President Nigel Wong commented: “We are thrilled to work with TTAA and ATTA to promote VM2026. This programme represents a tremendous opportunity for Malaysia and Thailand to expand their tourist offerings and create great travel experiences. Working together, we can generate more interest and visitation to our regions, highlighting the finest of Southeast Asia.”

In statements from the two Thai travel associations, TTAA Advisor Wachira Wichaiwatana noted that collaboration with MATTA was a step towards strengthening ties between our countries and improving visitors’ travel experiences.

ATTA President Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn added:  “The collaboration between our organisations will enable us to reach a larger audience and produce attractive travel packages that reflect the beauty and diversity of both Thailand and Malaysia.”

The VM2026 campaign is poised to be a watershed moment for the region, and this strategic alliance represents a crucial step towards its success. MATTA, TTAA, and ATTA are collaborating to create a mutually advantageous tourist landscape in Southeast Asia, the MATTA president concluded.

Malaysia steps up promotions in Vietnam

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TTR WEEKLY
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HO CHI MINH CITY, 19 August 2024: The Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia) in Vietnam organised the ‘Discover Malaysia’ seminar, including a networking lunch, in Danang last week, targeting local travel agents and media.

Malaysia Airlines’ upcoming daily direct flights from Danang (DAD) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL), due to start on 24 September 2024, topped the list of developments presented to travel agents at the event alongside the vision and plans for Visit Malaysia 2026.

The direct flight will enhance connectivity, promote tourism, and foster business opportunities between Vietnam and Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia director for Vietnam, Nor Hayati Zainuddin stated: “Vietnam is an important source market for Malaysia. Robust promotional initiatives are essential for attracting more Vietnamese tourists, especially with the new direct flight from Danang to Kuala Lumpur by Malaysia Airlines. We look forward to strengthening our collaboration with local travel agents in Danang and greatly appreciate their continuous support in promoting Malaysia. With more direct flights connecting Vietnam to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is positioned as the preferred travel destination in the region. These efforts will significantly contribute to the success of Visit Malaysia 2026.”

The event featured participation from Tourism Melaka, the Malaysia Homestay Entrepreneurs Association, Education Malaysia, Sepang International Circuit, GL Play by Gamuda Land, Monkeys Canopy Theme Park, and seven representatives from travel agents, hotels, and resorts in Malaysia.

Participants had the opportunity to network with Malaysian travel partners and gain valuable insights into popular destinations, including exciting theme parks, the Malaysia MotoGP, and the Malaysia My Second Home programme.

Tourism Malaysia is also collaborating with the Malaysia Homestay Entrepreneurs Association and Education Malaysia to highlight Malaysia’s educational and cultural offerings. This initiative particularly targets Vietnamese students, offering them experiential learning and cultural exchange opportunities.

Malaysia will also participate in the Hue International Dance Festival 2024 in conjunction with the seminar. The event is open until the evening of 23 August 2024 in Hue City, Vietnam.

Malaysia’s involvement in this prestigious event highlights its dedication to internationally showcasing its rich cultural heritage. The festival features performances by Malaysian dancers, offering a captivating display of traditional and contemporary dance forms that reflect the country’s multicultural identity.

Malaysia aims to attract 27.3 million international tourists in 2024, with an expected contribution of MYR102.7 billion (USD22.82 billion) in tourism revenue. 

With 142 direct flights currently operating between Vietnam and Malaysia, Tourism Malaysia anticipates strong growth in the ASEAN market, including Vietnam. 

The Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign targets 35.6 million foreign tourists, generating MYR147.1 billion in tourist receipts.

Air Astana grows Airbus fleet

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 19 August 2024: Air Astana took delivery of an Airbus A320neo last week, bringing the group’s fleet up to 56 aircraft. 

The Air Astana Group fleet now includes 50 Airbus family aircraft, with another two scheduled for delivery before the end of the year. The newly delivered Airbus A320neo is configured with 16 business class seats and 132 economy class seats.

“Air Astana Group is in the midst of an exciting new phase of development, with international and domestic passenger traffic growing significantly,” said the airline’s Chief Executive Officer Peter Foster. “The Airbus A320 family of aircraft has proven to be an outstanding success in service with both Air Astana and FlyArystan, with the fleet destined to continue rapidly expanding over the next few years.”

The group’s fleet size is expanding ahead of schedule, growing from 49 aircraft at the end of 2023 to 56 aircraft. This proactive capacity addition with Airbus aircraft aims to mitigate Pratt & Whitney engine issues and optimise the group’s network and growth strategy. By the end of 2028, the group’s fleet will reach 80 aircraft, predominantly comprising Airbus family types.

In line with Air Astana Group’s strategic goals of reducing environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency, the new Airbus aircraft joining the fleet feature advanced technologies that reduce emissions, lower noise levels, and minimise fuel burn while delivering increased range. These aircraft will play a crucial role in supporting the group’s commitment to sustainability, providing a greener, more efficient fleet for the future.

More Aussies heading for Japan

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TTR WEEKLY
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SYDNEY 19 August 2024: The number of Australians travelling to Japan has increased by a whopping 125.9% in the last year, while 35% more Australians are choosing to visit Indonesia and 24% South Korea according to data released Friday by the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA).

ATIA released its latest Travel Trends Report, revealing a significant surge in both inbound and outbound travel for Australia in the year ending June 2024. The report, which draws on data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Department of Infrastructure and analysis from the ATIA team, highlights key trends shaping the Australian travel and tourism industry.

According to the report, international travel to and from Australia has experienced remarkable growth, with a 36% increase in inbound tourism and a 31.8% rise in outbound travel compared to the previous year. Notably, the number of international visitors to Australia reached nearly 8 million, with substantial increases from key markets, such as China (231.1%), Japan (108.0%) and the US (28.3%).

Outbound travel by Australians also saw significant increases, particularly to popular destinations like Japan (125.9%), Indonesia (35.8%) and the United States (17.3%). This trend highlights Australians’ growing appetite for international travel, buoyed by the easing of global travel restrictions and an increasing desire for new experiences abroad.

The report also highlighted a shift in the reasons Australians travel. Holidays account for most trips, followed by visits to friends and relatives and business travel.

Additionally, airline market-share data revealed that Qantas Airways remains the dominant player in the international travel market, holding a 17.2% share, followed closely by Jetstar, which holds 12.4%.

Regarding the latest data,  ATIA CEO Dean Long commented: “Australian travellers are again exploring the world with vigour, and the data reflects a strong demand for diverse international destinations. The rise in travel to Japan and Indonesia signals a shift towards unique cultural experiences and adventure tourism. If it feels like everyone is in Japan now, it’s because they are! At the same time, fewer Australians are New Zealand bound with 103,850 travellers this year compared to 206,720 in 2023, a 27% decrease.”

“The positive trends in both inbound and outbound travel are a testament to our industry’s hard work and adaptability. As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic landscape, it is clear that Australia’s travel sector is not only recovering but thriving. ATIA remains committed to supporting our members in leveraging these opportunities to ensure sustained growth.”

About ATIA (www.atia.travel)
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is the peak body representing Australia’s AUD69 billion travel industry. ATIA represents the majority of Australian travel agents, corporate agents, tour operators, wholesalers and ITOs.

(Source: ATIA)

Genting Dream to call at Melaka

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 19 August 2024: Resorts World Cruises will feature the historic port of Melaka as the gateway to Kuala Lumpur for its two-night cruises aboard Genting Dream starting 10 November 2024. 

Passengers will enjoy a new and enhanced experience with dual visits to Melaka and the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. The port stay time has been extended from 10 to 12 hours. Genting Dream will anchor close to Melaka City, offering views of the surrounding beaches and landscape. Disembarking passengers are transferred by tender boat to the Melaka River and the modern Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (ICQS). Passengers can embark on Mondays every fortnight from Melaka via the ICQS Complex. They can combine a Melaka vacation with the one-way, three-night Melaka-Singapore-Penang-Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang) Cruise.

Resorts World Cruises has chosen Melaka as its new destination through its cruise ship Genting Dream. With an average of 200,000 passengers per year, this will increase tourist numbers during Visit Melaka 2024, thus boosting the destination’s economic growth. 

CX forecasts robust summer traffic

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 19 August 2024: Cathay Pacific flew 2,008,225 passengers in July 2024, an increase of 15.1% compared with July 2023, the airline reports in its latest traffic figures for July 2024.

Passenger load factor decreased by 3.8 percentage points to 85.5%, while available seat kilometres (ASKs) increased by 21.2% year-on-year. In the first seven months of 2024, the number of passengers carried increased by 32.5% to 12,667,826, against a 39% increase in ASKs and a 31.6% increase in RPKs, compared with the same period for 2023.

Cargo

The airline carried 126,797 tonnes of cargo in July 2024, an increase of 9.6% compared with July 2023. The month’s cargo revenue tonne kilometres (RFTKs) decreased 0.5% year-on-year. The cargo load factor decreased by 1.5 percentage points to 58.3%, while available cargo tonne kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 2.1% year-on-year. In the first seven months of 2024, the tonnage increased by 10.3% to a total of 846,261 tonnes, against a 9.9% increase in AFTKs and a 3.8% increase in RFTKs, as compared with the same period for 2023.

Travel

Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau commented: “Marking the start of the traditional summer travel peak, July was a milestone month for Cathay Pacific as the airline carried over 2 million passengers for the first time in a single month since our rebuild, while the 85.5% load factor was the highest of any month so far this year.

“Such robust demand was driven by the increased popularity of long-haul flights to and from Hong Kong in the first half of the month among students and those visiting friends and relatives. A surge followed this in demand for travel to popular short-haul destinations in Japan and Southeast Asia in the second half of July. In addition, we saw strong demand for flights to Paris due to the Olympic Games, and we were delighted to carry a significant number of athletes and spectators to attend this momentous sporting occasion.”

Outlook

The airline forecasts that the robust travel demand seen in July will continue through August, while September will receive a boost from students returning to the United Kingdom ahead of the new school year.

“Earlier in August, we were delighted to welcome the launch of Cathay Pacific’s new four-times-weekly Ningbo service. These flights complement the daily flights already operated by HK Express to and from the city. Additionally, HK Express has recently announced the launch of a new route between Hong Kong and Penang, Malaysia, which will commence service on 21 November 2024. Our customers can continue to look forward to more exciting destinations being added to our network as we work towards reaching 100 destinations as a Group within 2025.”

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