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HKIA actives Three-runway System

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 2 December 2024: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) commissioned its Three-runway System (3RS) on Thursday, 28 November, marking a new milestone in Hong Kong’s aviation development.

All three runways start operating simultaneously, providing the expanded capacity for HKIA to strengthen further Hong Kong’s position as a major international aviation hub. HKIA’s target is to serve 120 million passengers and handle 10 million tonnes of cargo annually 10 years from now.

Photo credit: HKIA.

The commissioning ceremony, held at HKIA, was officiated by John KC Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR); Zheng Yanxiong, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR; Xu Chengguang, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Transport, the People’s Republic of China (PRC); Liang Nan, Deputy Administrator of Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC); Zou Jinsong, Director of Bureau III of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council; Fang Jianming, Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PRC in the HKSAR; and Fred Lam, Chairman of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK).

John KC Lee commented at the ceremony: “This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the PRC. The three-runway system of HKIA has been completed. It is now in operation, carrying passengers from around the country and cargo to more destinations and providing more options for global passenger and cargo flow into the Mainland, which is particularly significant. HKIA is an important gateway to the world for Hong Kong and the entire Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, playing a strategic role in social and economic development.”

Construction works of 3RS started in August 2016. The new North Runway was officially commissioned in November 2022. Since then, HKIA has continued to operate with two runways, with the Centre Runway temporarily closed for reconfiguration. The reconfiguration works include levelling the runway pavement to tie in with connecting taxiways, constructing new runway entry and exit taxiways and building new wrap-around taxiways at both ends of the runway. After the reconfiguration works, the flight check and aircraft crash and rescue exercise were completed on the Centre Runway in September and October, respectively. After all three runways operate simultaneously, aircraft take-offs and landings at HKIA will gradually increase to match air traffic demand.

Cathay ready for three-runway system

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 29 November 2024: Cathay Pacific welcomes the commissioning of the Hong Kong International Airport’s Three-Runway System, which will mark a new phase of growth and development for the Hong Kong aviation hub.

In a press statement released earlier this week, Cathay said it was “proud to support the continued development of its home hub, with the Group’s airlines reaching 100% of pre-pandemic flights from January 2025.”

Cathay Pacific and HK Express will continue adding more flights and destinations for their customers. The two airlines plan to operate passenger services to 100 destinations worldwide within 2025, a meaningful milestone for the Cathay Group.

As Hong Kong’s flagship airline group, Cathay is firmly committed to the city’s long-term growth and development. This is exemplified by the Group’s commitment to invest more than HKD100 billion in investments over the next seven years. 

The investment includes orders for ​ over 100 new-generation aircraft, world-leading cabin interiors and lounges, and digital and sustainability leadership. This reflects our strong commitment to boosting air travel and cargo capacity, elevating customer experience, and strengthening the Hong Kong international aviation hub.

Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said: “Introducing the Three-Runway System will be a landmark moment for Hong Kong, one that ushers in a new era of possibilities for our home hub and its aviation industry. On behalf of Cathay, I would like to congratulate the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Airport Authority Hong Kong for this significant achievement.

“I am particularly pleased that the successful completion of Cathay’s rebuild coincides with the opening of the Three-Runway System. We can now truly put the pandemic behind us and firmly focus on the future.

“Our confidence in the long-term prospects of our home hub is as resolute as ever. As we look ahead to the many exciting opportunities that the Three-Runway System will provide, we are eager to continue doing our part to elevate Hong Kong’s status as a world-leading international aviation hub, connecting Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and the world.”

Sarawak welcomes Coral Geographer

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUCHING, 29 November 2024: Sarawak welcomed the inaugural visit of Coral Geographer to Borneo Island last week, operated by Coral Expeditions from Australia.

The cruise ship, carrying 125 passengers — mainly Australians — along with two lecturers and seven expedition crew members, docked at Kuching’s port to a colourful cultural reception and garlanding ceremony.

Passengers embarked on shore excursions designed to showcase Sarawak’s unique attractions. Highlights of the tours included a Kuching City Tour, with visits to the iconic Borneo Cultures Museum and trips to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, where passengers observed orangutans in their natural habitat. Other activities included birding at Kubah National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity, and an immersive adventure at Bako National Park, famed for its scenic landscapes and wildlife.

Before arriving in Kuching, Coral Geographer docked in Miri to enable passengers to explore the Miri-Sibuti Reef National Park for diving activities and visit the Lambir Hills National Park and Niah National Park, recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The arrival of the Coral Geographer was facilitated by GAC and Fortune Shipping, ensuring seamless coordination for the passengers’ visit to Sarawak. The ship is scheduled to return to Kuching on 26 December 2024 for a second visit.

This recurring interest from cruise operators highlights the appeal of Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and community-driven tourism initiatives. Visitors are treated to authentic experiences that celebrate Sarawak’s CANFF pillars — Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festivals.

For more information on Sarawak tourism, visit:https://www.sarawaktourism.com/web/home/index/

Surestay Collection makes it simple to stay in Bangkok

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 29 November 2024: BWH Hotels, the global network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, has strengthened its commitment to providing a broad range of accommodations to all guests in Bangkok with the opening of the SimpleStay Chatuchak, SureStay Collection by Best Western.

This new 50-room hotel allows guests to explore a rapidly emerging area of North Bangkok. Located just steps from the popular Chatuchak Weekend Market entrance, it is close to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, the Thai capital’s main railway station, and a short drive from Don Mueang International Airport. Kamphaeng Phet MRT subway station is only 100 metres away, putting the entire city within easy reach.

Reflecting the brand values of SureStay Collection, the new hotel introduces a new era of affordable, individual hospitality to this dynamic district. It will appeal to guests who like to travel casually but appreciate the additional touches that elevate their stay. The Standard and Family Rooms all feature comfortable beds, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, working areas, TVs with international channels, and refreshing bathrooms with eco-friendly amenities.

Guests can enjoy Thai and international cuisine at The Market Restaurant while staying at the SimpleStay Chatuchak, SureStay Collection by Best Western. Travellers seeking additional entertainment can unwind, socialise and sip cool drinks at the stylish Plot Twist Bar, perched on the 6th floor and overlooks the Central Terminal through a panoramic glass wall. The onsite Wellness Studio also offers yoga, Pilates, sound healing and spa services to soothe the body, mind and soul.

“Bangkok is the world’s most-visited city, so we are delighted to introduce another exceptional hotel to this key market. Comfortable, convenient and fully connected, the SimpleStay Chatuchak, SureStay Collection by Best Western perfectly complements the popular Best Western Chatuchak hotel and makes it simple for guests to experience everything the Thai capital has to offer,” said BWH Hotels Vice President – APAC, Olivier Berrivin.

With 13 hotels now operating in Bangkok under seven distinct brands — WorldHotels Elite, Best Western, Best Western Plus, Vīb, SureStay by Best Western, SureStay Plus by Best Western, and SureStay Collection by Best Western – BWH Hotels offers a comprehensive range of accommodations in Thailand’s capital city.

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

Emirates deploys A350 to Edinburgh on 3 January

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 29 November 2024: Emirates has announced it will bring forward its daily A350 scheduled service to Edinburgh starting from 3 January 2025. 

The scheduled service advancement reinforces Emirates’ commitment to providing customers with enhanced travel experiences and greater comfort onboard.

The Emirates A350 will be rolled out to eight other destinations, including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kuwait, Bahrain, Colombo, Lyon, Muscat and Bologna, with more destinations to follow.

Emirates flight EK 23 will depart Dubai at 1450 and arrive in Edinburgh at 1905 local time. The return flight, EK24, will depart Edinburgh at 2040 and arrive in Dubai at 0805 the following day.

Emirates also currently serves Glasgow with a daily A380, offering customers 14 weekly flights to and from Scotland. Including Edinburgh, Emirates serves eight destinations in the UK.

For more information or to book tickets, visit emirates.com. Tickets can also be booked on Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents.

Jetstar Asia crew step out in new uniforms

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 29 November 2024: Jetstar Asia cabin crew and pilots stepped out in their new uniforms at Changi Airport Thursday, joining Jetstar staff from Australia, New Zealand and Japan.

The collection is designed by Australian fashion designer Genevieve Smart, Co-founder and Creative Director of Ginger & Smart, who worked alongside 40 pilots, cabin crew and team members from the Jetstar Group over the past two years to complete the final design.

Photo credit: Jetstar Asia.

The new colour palette includes a softer orange and blue combination inspired by the sunset as seen through an aircraft window.

More than 6,000 frontline team members will wear the new uniforms across Singapore, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand starting Thursday.

It marks a new era for the Jetstar Group, which is on track to sell more than 12 million fares for under SGD100 this year and more than 21 million for less than SGD200.

MITEC wins conference venue world title

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 29 November 2024: The Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), owned by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), has been recognised as the World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2024.

Having clinched top honours in the Malaysia (World MICE Awards) and Asia (World Travel Awards) categories, MITEC has now triumphed internationally, solidifying its status as a premier global venue for MICE events. 

Zuhaila Sedek (second from the right) accepted the award on behalf of MITEC.

Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) representative Zuhaila Sedek accepted the award on behalf of MITEC (second from the right).

Notable events hosted at MITEC in 2024

• Defence Services Asia & NATSEC Asia 2024: 47,587 attendees from 114 countries.

• MATTA Fair: Over 170,000 visitors, generating RM230 million in sales.

• Perfect China International Convention: Over 10,000 international delegates, featuring an in-house catered 8-course Chinese banquet.

• International Dragon Awards (IDA) Annual Conference: 11,000 global financial and insurance professionals.

MITEC has welcomed over 4 million visitors during the first nine months of the year, reinforcing its role as a key driver of Malaysia’s business tourism sector and its significant contribution to the national economy.

As Malaysia takes on the prestigious ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, MITEC is gearing up for an extraordinary year with a diverse slate of major events that will continue solidifying its status as a world-class venue. 

Event highlights of 2025

• Joey Yap FSA 2025: A premier event focusing on Feng Shui and astrology, drawing thousands of international attendees.

• Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) 2025: One of Southeast Asia’s largest furniture trade shows, attracting global buyers and exhibitors.

• MATTA Fair 2025: Continuing its legacy as Malaysia’s largest travel fair, it is expected to surpass its record-breaking visitor and sales figures.

• International Healthcare Week: Bringing together medical professionals and innovators to explore advancements in global healthcare.

• ASEAN Road Traffic Tech Expo 2025: A critical platform for showcasing the ASEAN region’s latest technologies and solutions in road safety and traffic management.

Travel budget goes further in Penang

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TTR WEEKLY
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LONDON, 29 November 2024: Penang, Malaysia, has secured the 13th spot in the UK’s 2024 Post Office Travel Money Long Haul Holiday Report, ranking among 32 global resorts and cities surveyed for affordability.

This recognition further strengthens Malaysia’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling travel destinations. Malaysia is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, natural beauty, and exceptional value.

From the busy streets of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a dynamic range of experiences. Among its top destinations, Penang stands out for its outstanding affordability, allowing visitors to explore the country’s culture and history without stretching their budget.

Penang blends affordability with diverse experiences, from mouthwatering street food to cultural landmarks, providing travellers with an enriching journey at every turn. With wallet-friendly dining options, reasonably priced beverages, and essential services, Penang offers an all-encompassing and enjoyable experience for holidaymakers, making it an ideal choice for those seeking value and adventure in 2025. Solo travellers, couples, and families alike can all find something to enjoy in Penang, which caters to a wide range of adventurers while ensuring a budget-friendly experience for all.

A must-visit destination, it undoubtedly deserves a spot on the 2025 travel hotspot list.

Penang, A Must-Visit Destination for 2025

  1. Culinary Paradise – Known as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang is a dream destination for food lovers. Its world-famous street food, including dishes like char kway teow, laksa, and satay, is delicious and incredibly affordable. Gurney Drive and local hawker centres offer the perfect opportunity to sample these delicacies.
  2. Cultural Heritage – Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its historic George Town district. Visitors can explore beautifully preserved colonial-era architecture, vibrant street art, and temples that reflect the island’s multicultural identity. Must-visit sites include the Kek Lok Si Temple, Pinang Peranakan Mansion, and the famous Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion.
  1. Street Art and Scenic Landmarks – Jalan Kek Chuan, recently ranked 17th among the most beautiful streets in the world by House Beautiful magazine, is a must-see destination for art lovers and Instagram enthusiasts visiting Penang. This picturesque street is part of the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a visual feast of ornately detailed shops, vibrant murals, and colourful facades. The area has become a living canvas for renowned artists like Ernest Zacharevic, whose street art projects have transformed George Town’s historic streets into an open-air gallery. 
  2. Beaches and Natural Beauty – Penang features idyllic beaches such as Batu Ferringhi, where visitors can enjoy water sports, or relax by the sea. Nature enthusiasts can explore Penang National Park, hike up Penang Hill for stunning views, or visit the Butterfly Farm and Tropical Spice Garden.
  3. Festivals and Nightlife – Penang’s calendar is packed with festivals that showcase its diverse heritage, including the Thaipusam procession, Chinese New Year celebrations, and the George Town Festival. When the sun sets, vibrant night markets like Batu Ferringhi come alive, offering shopping, food, and entertainment.
  4. Family-Friendly Attractions – Visit the interactive Wonderfood Museum, the exciting Escape Adventureplay theme park and the quirky Penang 3D Trick Art Museum.

Key Barometer Costs in Penang

  • Coffee: UKP3.44
  • Local Lager: UKP3.44
  • Coca-Cola: UKP1.91
  • A glass of Wine: UKP8.60
  • Cocktail: UKP8.03
  • Small Chocolate Bar: UKP0.76
  • 1.5L Bottle of Mineral Water: UKP0.46
  • Suncream (SPF15): UKP11.94
  • Insect Repellent: UKP3.04
  • Three-Course Dinner for Two: UKP62.20

Visit the full 2024 Long Haul Holiday Report at www.postoffice.co.uk/longhaul

About Tourism Malaysia
Tourism Malaysia, officially known as the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, operates as an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia.

Air India upgrades metro to metro routes

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TTR WEEKLY
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GURUGRAM, India, 29 November 2024: Following the integration of Vistara earlier this month, Air India will deliver its best narrowbody cabin products on five key metro-to-metro routes beginning 1 December 2024.

This will see all* flights between the following metro cities operated with former Vistara A320-series aircraft offering business, premium economy and economy class:

1. Delhi and Mumbai
2. Delhi and Bengaluru
3. Delhi and Hyderabad
4. Mumbai and Bengaluru
5. Mumbai and Hyderabad

Flights will operate with an ‘AI’-prefixed and four-digit flight numbers beginning with ‘2’, such as AI2999 from Delhi to Mumbai.

Air India will also optimise flight schedules so that flight departures are spread throughout the day without reducing frequency. Air India now offers more than 1,000 weekly flights (round trips) on these key routes: 56 daily on Delhi-Mumbai, 36 daily on Delhi-Bengaluru, 24 daily on Delhi-Hyderabad, 22 daily on Mumbai-Bengaluru, and 18 daily on Mumbai-Hyderabad. 

Air India Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Campbell Wilson said: “The merger of Vistara into Air India has unlocked many new opportunities to improve our customer offering. By combining the strengths of both full-service carriers, we can consolidate our best narrowbody offering on routes where there is a desire for a high-frequency, full-service product. We will progressively expand the coverage to more routes as Air India inducts new aircraft and completes the retrofit of our legacy narrowbody fleet during 2025.”

Air India’s five key metro-metro routes aircraft feature a three-class configuration. Eight business class seats offer 41 inches of pitch, seven inches of recline, leg rest and footrest. There are 24 extra legroom seats in a dedicated, upscale premium economy class cabin, with each seat offering 33 inches of pitch and four inches of recline. The economy has 132 seats with 29 inches of standard pitch and three inches of recline. 

Travellers can expect a full-service flying experience on Air India’s metro-to-metro routes. This includes award-winning cabin interiors, complimentary hot meals, lounge access for premium guests at all major airports, the choice of convenient flight connections to destinations across five continents, and service delivered to the exacting standards of the new Air India.

Air India’s optimised domestic route network will be progressively visible across booking channels, including its official website, mobile app, and through authorised travel agents and partners.

*Air India will continue to operate one widebody flight each between Delhi and Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad using its Boeing 777 or Airbus A350 aircraft, which will have ‘AI’-prefixed three-digit flight numbers. 

Extra flights for Chinese New Year

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 29 November 2024: As AirAsia prepares to welcome the Year of the Snake in 2025, the airline is scheduling additional seasonal flights for the Chinese New Year between Singapore and East Malaysia.

AirAsia guests can start planning their festive travel between 24 January and 5 February 2025, as bookings are now open for festive season travel over the Chinese New Year week, including late-night flights from Singapore to Kuching or limited-time flights from Singapore to Sibu, Miri, or Tawau.

With 22 extra flights to selected destinations in East Malaysia, AirAsia will operate 43 flights during the 2025 festive season, offering over 7,900 seats at dynamic fares.

Additional flights from 2 to 5 February 2025

Seasonal Flights from 24 January to 4 February 2025

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