SINGAPORE, 20 March 2024: Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer Engr Badr Mohammed Al-Meer revealed major new developments in line with his vision for the airline’s future in an exclusive interview with CNBC.
In his first interview since taking over the top job last November, he confirmed the airline will introduce new first-class cabins in some of its aircraft. Currently, only the A380 has a first-class cabin catering to just eight passengers.
The far-ranging interview touched on the overall positive outlook for the Group as Engr Al-Meer detailed his approach to developing a high-yielding concept for Qatar Airways’ new first-class cabin.
“Based on the demand from certain sectors, we see a high demand for first class, and as such, we have decided to introduce a newly designed first class cabin unique to Qatar Airways. We are combining the experience of flying commercial and executive jets to develop something new. We are 70 to 80% ready and are only finalising colours. We are hoping to announce it soon.”
He also revealed Qatar Airways’ redesign of its premium Qsuite, which will debut at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024.
Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer Engr Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.
Qatar Airways GCEO also stated that the competitive aviation landscape in the GCC region is helping raise the bar when it comes to customer experience. He stated that potential rivals are under pressure, and he welcomes any challenge for Qatar Airways. He remains confident that Qatar Airways will continue to hold onto its market-leading position.
Qatar Airways will launch several new destinations this summer, bringing its total destinations to over 170. Upcoming destinations include Hamburg, Lisbon, Tashkent, and Venice. Qatar Airways will also resume several summer seasonal routes, including Adana, Antalya, Bodrum, Marrakesh, Mykonos, Sarajevo, and Trabzon.
He was appointed Group CEO in November 2023, and he immediately focused on introducing innovative programmes to benefit both passengers and the airline’s global 60,000-strong workforce. His first message to employees stressed the importance of cultivating trust and empowerment in the work culture. Under his leadership, various workplace initiatives have been successfully introduced that continue to improve employee satisfaction.
SINGAPORE, 20 March 2024: One year after Lufthansa Group launched Green Fares, more than 1 million passengers opted for the sustainable-friendly fare.
In the first year, an average of 3% of passengers used the offer, making an important contribution to more sustainable travel. In business class, Green Fares tickets are already selected for 11% of bookings via the Lufthansa Group portals.
Photo credit: Lufthansa.
Green Fares are popular on routes such as Hamburg-Munich, Zurich-London and Frankfurt-Berlin. Demand continues to rise steadily in all booking classes, underlining the success of the more sustainable fare. In total, travellers have offset more than 77,000 tonnes of CO2 since the launch of Green Fares by offsetting their flight-related CO2 emissions. This amount corresponds to the CO2 emissions of more than 12,000 flights from Hamburg to Munich with an Airbus A320neo.
The Green Fares are available with Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, SWISS, Edelweiss, Discover Airlines and Air Dolomiti on more than 730,000 flights annually within Europe and to Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. The Lufthansa Group has also tested Green Fares on selected long-haul routes since November 2023.
How the Green Fares work
The Green Fares fare in Europe and to North Africa has added selection option to the Lufthansa Group’s fare structure, which has been in place since 2015. This product for more sustainable flying includes the full offsetting of individual, flight-related CO2 emissions by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and contributing to high-quality climate protection projects. With SAF, a reduction of 20% of CO2 emissions is achieved, while climate protection projects compensate for the remaining 80%. The Lufthansa Group ensures that the amount of SAF required for offsetting is fed into the airport infrastructure within six months of purchase. As a drop-in fuel, SAF is mixed with fossil fuel before being transported to the airport. For operational reasons, it is not possible to refuel individual selected flights.
The Lufthansa Group’s CO2 compensation portfolio currently comprises 15 projects, including two technology-based projects: Carbon Cure’s Sustainable Concrete (carbon capture and long-term storage in concrete) and Biochar (CO2 removal with biochar). In this way, the Lufthansa Group aims to promote the development of the CO2 compensation market towards new technologies and offers long-term binding of CO2.
Currently, around 4% of Lufthansa Group passengers use one of the various offers for more sustainable flying. The company offers opportunities along the entire travel chain. In addition to choosing a special fare such as the Green Fares, passengers can also select individually tailored offers with a higher proportion of SAF, for example, during the booking process. It is also possible to offset flight-related CO2 emissions during or after the flight. In addition to private customers, more and more corporate customers are also using one of the Lufthansa Group’s offers for more sustainable flying: in 2023, more than 1,500 companies worldwide invested in SAF with the Lufthansa Group.
By 2030, the Lufthansa Group wants to halve its net CO₂ emissions compared to 2019 through reduction and compensation measures. The independent Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validated the 2030 target’s reduction share in August 2022.
SINGAPORE, 20 March 2024: India’s low-cost airline IndiGo will add Agatti, an island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, as its 88th domestic destination effective 31 March. Overall, the airline’s route network serves 121 domestic and international destinations.
Photo credit: Airports ofIndia. Agatti airport.
IndiGo will start daily flights between Bengaluru and Agatti on 31 March, offering direct connectivity between these destinations and providing tourists with easy accessibility and more flight options to and from Lakshadweep.
IndiGo’s head of global sales Vinay Malhotra said: “We are excited to announce Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory, as IndiGo’s 88th domestic destination.
“The natural landscapes, the sandy beaches, and the abundance of flora and fauna are bound to attract people to explore the pristine beauty of the archipelago,” he said. These new flights will further strengthen Lakshadweep’s position on the country’s aviation map and enhance travel and tourism.
One of the most popular islands of Lakshadweep, Agatti is just 6km long but blessed with aquatic diversity. More importantly, it is also the home to the archipelago’s only airstrip, connecting Lakshadweep to the rest of India.
Known for its stunning beaches, considered by many to be amongst the best in the world, Agatti is popular amongst those looking for deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, sailing, water skiing, and kayaking. The island also serves as an ideal base for exploring the uninhabited and serene isles of Bangaram, Pitti, Thinnakara, Parali-I and Parali-II, which lie nearby.
Bengaluru, India’s high-tech industry hub, is also a gateway to tourist attractions such as Cubbon Park, Nandi Hills, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, Bengaluru Palace, Ulsoor Lake, and ISKCON Temple.
VIENTIANE, 2O March 2024: Lao Airlines is increasing flights from the Lao capital, Vientiane, to the far north town of Luang Namtha, located 56 km south of the border with China and on the fast train line running from Kunming in China to Vientiane.
Lao Airlines is adding a second daily flight on the route effective 31 March, the airline’s Facebook post confirmed earlier this week.
Vientiane – Luang Namtha QV601 1200 – 1300 daily
Luang Namtha – Vientiane QV602 1340 – 1440 daily
Vientiane – Luang Namtha QV603 1340 – 1440 daily
Luang Namtha – Vientiane QV604 1520 – 1620 daily
Starting 1 April, Lao Airlines will schedule a daily domestic flight from Vientiane to Huaphan (Nongkhang).
Flight QV701 departs Vientiane at 0840 and arrives in Huaphan at 0940 Flight QV702 departs Huaphan at 1020 and arrives in Vientiane at 1120.
Regarding international routes to Laos, West Air, a low-cost airline subsidiary of Hainan Airlines based in Chongqing City, launched direct flights from Changsha to Vientiane last week using an Airbus A320.
First reported by AeroLaos, an aviation information channel, West Air flies from Changsa to Vientiane on Thursday, Saturday and Tuesday.
BANGKOK, 20 March 2024: Thai Airways International (THAI) confirms it will increase domestic flights to support travel demand during the upcoming Songkran holidays.
The airline will increase four roundtrip flights on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Bangkok to Phuket routes from 12 to 16 April 2024.
Bangkok – Chiang Mai roundtrips
12 and 13 April 2024 • TG8730 Bangkok – Chiang Mai • TG8731 Chiang Mai – Bangkok
15 and 16 April 2024 • TG8732 Bangkok – Chiang Mai • TG8733 Chiang Mai – Bangkok
This will increase flights to 39 roundtrips on the Bangkok – Chiang Mai route over the Songkran festival holiday.
Bangkok – Phuket roundtrips.
12 and 13 April 2024 • TG8787 Bangkok – Phuket • TG8788 Phuket – Bangkok
15 and 16 April 2024 • TG8789 Bangkok – Phuket • TG8790 Phuket – Bangkok
This will increase flights to 67 roundtrips on the Bangkok-Phuket route.
BANGKOK, 14 March 2024: Thailand’s Songkran Festival is an extraordinary cultural occasion that every traveller should experience at least once in their life.
Marking the start of the Thai New Year, this annual event is held every April and is traditionally marked by the gentle ritual of pouring water over one’s elders as a mark of respect and purification. Over the years, however, it has evolved into a nationwide water fiesta, as revellers across the kingdom soak each other. As Songkran takes place in April – the hottest month of the year – this is also a wonderful way to cool down and mingle with friendly locals.
Thailand’s Songkran holidays have been extended this year from 12 to 16 April. Whether you’re seeking an enchanting cultural retreat or a fun-filled celebration, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, can set the stage for every escape style. Simply pick your favourite destination and take the plunge.
Feel the buzz of Songkran in Bangkok
Guests can cool off in the shimmering swimming pool at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok.
Thailand’s dynamic capital city is an exhilarating place to immerse yourself in the fun of Songkran. Thousands of local residents and visitors come together on major thoroughfares such as Silom Road and Khao San Road (closed to traffic) and participate in three days of wet and wild street parties. For a more spiritual experience, visiting the city’s ancient temples, such as Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho and Wat Saket, will showcase the festival’s elegant traditions. With five hotels in Bangkok in three distinct categories, Centara provides the perfect place to stay and play. To learn more, please click here.
Visit Chiang Mai, the spiritual home of Songkran
Culture seekers can discover the spiritual traditions of Songkran in Chiang Mai, the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom.
The northern city of Chiang Mai is considered the spiritual home of Songkran. Famously, the festivities here can be wetter, wilder and last longer than in other parts of the kingdom. Culture seekers can wake up early and give alms to Buddhist monks as they walk through the streets at dawn. Then, as the temperatures rise, Tha Pae Gate in the old city sets the stage for the city’s most colourful celebrations, with the streets lined with food stalls and stage performances.
Ring in Thai New Year in Pattaya, Thailand’s party capital
This April, people of all ages can make a splash in Pattaya with exciting Thai New Year activities for both young and old.
Pattaya is a 24-hour party town with an endless array of bars, clubs and upbeat attractions. This makes it an exhilarating destination for fun-loving couples and friends to soak up the joy of Songkran. Head to Beach Road, which is closed to traffic and transforms into one long outdoor party zone with foam machines and an endless deluge of water from high-powered hoses. For families, Pattaya’s world-class water parks let little ones make a splash. Centara has eight properties in Pattaya, from affordable lifestyle hotels to themed water park resorts. Click here to learn more.
Family-friendly festivities in Phuket
Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket is a fun-filled resort where youngsters can enjoy the thrill of a water park.
For parents, Phuket is a dream destination for introducing their children to the magic of Songkran. The island’s blissful beaches come to life with vibrant parties and live music, and many resorts stage their family-friendly activities. Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most prominent Buddhist temple, is an exquisite setting to discover the festival’s spiritual aspects. A trip to the hilltop Big Buddha statue promises breathtaking views of the island and the endless Andaman Sea. Centara has seven hotels and resorts in Phuket across various categories. For more information and to book, please click here.
Late-night Songkran with the locals in Hat Yai For an authentic southern Thai Songkran experience, Hat Yai is the place to go! This bustling city is famous for its Hat Yai Midnight Songkran celebration – a late-night parade and water-splashing event that attracts revellers from all over the country and from across the border in Malaysia. Prepare for foam parties, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to sample the distinctive southern Thai cuisine. Enjoy the fun, but don’t expect an early night! Located in the city’s heart, Centara Hotel Hat Yai is the perfect place to stay this April. Discover more here. April is the last month before the rainy season starts in Thailand, so don’t miss the chance to experience this extraordinary New Year festival. To book your Songkran escape in Thailand with Centara Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com
KUCHING, 19 March 2024: Did you know that Sarawak’s Kolo Mee has been officially recognised as part of Malaysia’s national heritage, joining a list of iconic culinary treasures?
Kolo Mee is a local speciality and the most popular dish for busy residents, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It certainly tops the list of foods worth flying for.
Kolo Mee is usually topped with minced meat, succulent barbequed pork slices, spring onions, and fried onion. This Chinese dish is also served up as a Halal version with slices of beef or chicken, fragrant fried shallots, and spring onions, served in a bowl of rich beef or chicken soup.
Some noodle fans ask what’s the difference between Kolo Mee and Wonton Mee? The latter is popular in Peninsular Malaysia. Kolo Mee is not drenched in dark soy sauce, and water is not added to the noodles when served.
HONG KONG, 19 March 2024: In its annual results 2023, Cathay Pacific confirmed its first profit since COVID-19 last week and confirmed its travel business, comprising Cathay Pacific and HK Express, will reach 80% of pre-pandemic passenger flights within Q2 2024.
“We are committed to continuing our rebuild journey in 2024, said airline group CEO Ronald Lam in his statement regarding future outlook. “We are now working towards reaching 100% within the first quarter of 2025… (but) acknowledge this would be up to three months later than our previous projections.”
Photo credit: Cathay Pacific. Ronald Lam Cathay Pacific Group CEO.
He pointed to the strategic investment in products, services and people that will continue in 2024 with the introduction of new cabin products in each of the coming three years.
“In 2024, we are launching an all-new business class experience — Aria Suite and a premium economy product as part of redesigning our long-haul Boeing 777-300ER cabins.
“In 2025, this will be followed by a new world-leading first-class experience onboard our Boeing 777-9 aircraft. And in 2026, a new regional product on the Airbus A330 fleet will be introduced featuring flat beds in business class.”
Regarding the cargo business, Lam anticipates continued strong demand from e-commerce in the airline’s home market of Hong Kong and the wider Greater Bay Area. However, he cautioned that trade flow directional imbalances would persist, impacting overall load factors.
“Moreover, as the air cargo industry continues to normalise, yields will decrease in 2024 but are expected to remain above 2019 levels.”
In 2024, the airline will expand its workforce by around 20% or 5,000 people compared with 2023.
HONG KONG, 19 March 2024: Hong Kong has won the bid to host Consensus, a cryptocurrency and Web 3 event that will meet in Hong Kong from 19 to 21 February 2025.
This will be the first time in five years that the event has been held outside of the US. Consensus Hong Kong 2025 should attract 8,000 participants, of whom 6,000 will be worldwide delegates.
Photo credit CNW Group/Hong Kong Tourism Board. Consensus Conference 2022.
The government and HKTB jointly provided all-around support to the organiser when bidding for the event, including arranging for professional advisory, venue liaison, and site inspection arrangements with the organiser, CoinDesk, and related parties.
HKTB general manager of MICE and Cruise, Kenneth Wong, said: “We are excited that Consensus makes Hong Kong its first destination to expand its global footprint beyond North America. It is a vote of confidence that this flagship crypto and Web3 conference has picked Hong Kong as the city that provides fertile ground for businesses and industries.”
Event organiser and CoinDesk president Foster Wright noted that Consensus is a global event that brings together all facets of the cryptocurrency, blockchain, and Web3 community.
“Attendees can anticipate learning best practices from global experts and cultivating relationships that propel their businesses onto the international stage.”
Consensus conferences bring together cryptocurrency, blockchain, and Web3 ecosystem industry players to brainstorm and shape the digital vision.
SEOUL, 19 March 2024: Korean Air will expand international services for the summer 2024 season starting 31 March 2024. The airline will resume services to four cities in China, Europe, and Southeast Asia and increase flight frequencies on major routes.
The expansion will allow the airline’s international capacity to reach approximately 96% of pre-pandemic levels, measured by available seat kilometres (ASK).
Europe, China and Southeast Asia
On 2 April, the airline will resume three weekly flights between Seoul Incheon and Zurich to cater to the high demand for this popular summer destination.
From 23 April, Korean Air will resume three weekly flights on the Seoul Incheon-Zhangjiajie route, famed for its designation as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and where the fictional world of Pandora in the movie “Avatar” was filmed.
On 24 April, Korean Air will resume its Seoul Incheon-Zhengzhou services, offering four weekly flights. Zhengzhou is a popular tourist destination in China, featuring Taihangshan, often called the “Grand Canyon of China.” Visitors may also hike Songshan, one of the Five Great Mountains of China, and visit Shaolin Temple, which is considered the birthplace of Kung Fu.
The airline will also resume daily flights on the Busan-Bangkok route on 25 April after nearly four years of hiatus due to the pandemic.
Flights increase on major routes
In response to growing demand, Korean Air will also increase flight frequencies on popular routes in Europe, Southeast Asia, and North America. Flights will increase on the Seoul Incheon-Budapest route from three to four weekly flights. Budapest is a popular tourist destination and a battery and automotive component company manufacturing base.
The Seoul Incheon-Bangkok route will increase from three to four daily flights, and the Seoul Incheon-Manila route will increase from two to three daily flights. Since January, the airline has also added two additional frequencies on the Seoul Incheon-Bali route to offer eleven weekly flights, offering travellers greater flexibility and choice.
In North America, Korean Air will increase services on the Seoul Incheon-Dallas route from four weekly to daily flights. As a gateway to the south-central United States, the daily flights will facilitate enhanced connectivity for passengers travelling to and from the dynamic city.
