Guggenheim Abu Dhabi opens this December

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August 4, 2026

ABU DHABI, UAE, 4 August 2026: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has announced that Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will open its doors on 11 December 2026, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global capital for the arts.

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is a museum of modern and contemporary art shaped by Abu Dhabi’s artistic landscape and designed to reflect the United Arab Emirates’ stories.

*The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi announces the 11 December 2026 opening of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.*

The museum joins a growing community of museums and cultural institutions in Saadiyat Cultural District, including Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, positioning the district as one of the world’s most significant concentrations of cultural institutions. Part of the Guggenheim constellation of museums in New York, Venice, and Bilbao, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi brings a distinct identity shaped by Abu Dhabi’s legacy, in a region that has been at the crossroads of culture and trade for millennia.

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi reflects Abu Dhabi’s role as a catalyst for artistic innovation and creative production, fostering meaningful connections between artists, ideas, and audiences. Placing the visitor at the centre, the museum offers an open, exploratory experience in which each journey unfolds across interconnected narratives of time, place, and theme.

Designed by the late Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate Frank Gehry, the museum is located on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, a meeting point between land and sea. A rooted architectural landmark that will offer a new perspective and invite visitors to be part of the curatorial journey of the museum.

Extending the visitor journey through interconnected spaces, the architecture of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is integral to the artistic experience. The building features 30 galleries that unfold across the interior, connected by a central atrium and ten sculptural cones that punctuate the building’s dynamic skyline. Nine are clad in stainless steel mesh and one in onyx and glass.

Reaching heights of up to 88 metres, the sculptural cones provide natural ventilation and shade, enhancing the building’s energy efficiency while articulating its bold silhouette. Spanning 11,600 sqm of interior gallery space and 23,000 sqm of outdoor exhibition areas, the landmark encompasses a total built-up area of 80,000 sqm, reinforcing its role as one of the most significant museum developments, suited to the impressive size, variety of media, and experimental character of art since 1960.

Since 2009, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi has been building a growing collection of modern and contemporary art that will reflect and advance Abu Dhabi’s role as a catalyst for creative production and innovation in the arts. Guests will be invited to engage with art on their own terms, shaping individual pathways through galleries that consider major vectors of art since 1960, such as Abstractions, Popular Culture, Land, Language, and Storytelling.

A landmark for Abu Dhabi and the world, the museum will deepen understanding, expand perspectives, and offer new ways to engage with the art of our time, positioning Abu Dhabi at the forefront of global artistic production, discourse, and exchange. More information about the collection and commissions will be announced in the coming months.

(Source: Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi)

Travellers ask for pay-on-arrival options

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Newsdesk

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August 4, 2026

SINGAPORE, 4 August 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda’s latest ranking of most popular search filters for 2026 reveals that booking flexibility is playing a growing role among travellers in Asia.

Agoda search data highlights free cancellation and ‘pay at the hotel’ as some of the region’s most-used filters, reflecting preferences for convenience and greater control over travel plans.

While accommodation type remains the most-used search filter, accounting for 19% of all filter use across Asia, traveller priorities are diversifying. Both ‘free cancellation’ and ‘pay-at-hotel’ options have climbed into the top 10 most popular filters region-wide, highlighting the increasing importance travellers are placing on clear cancellation policies and flexible payment options, in addition to where they stay.

Agoda’s additional data show that this desire for flexibility extends throughout the trip-planning journey. Travellers aren’t just looking for refundable options; they are also tailoring their searches to convenient property features such as specific bed types, parking facilities, and proximity to public transport. Travellers are looking for accommodations that can easily cater to their specific travel styles, whether they are planning a spontaneous drive-to getaway, travelling with a large group, or mapping out a multi-stop itinerary.

“Search filters can reveal what travellers want to know before they book, whether that’s the right accommodation type, greater flexibility or confidence in the quality of a stay,” said Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply Andrew Smith. “For accommodation providers, these insights can be a roadmap for meeting evolving traveller expectations. Properties that make their value proposition clear, highlight the amenities guests care about most, and reduce booking friction will be better positioned to increase visibility, encourage conversion in an increasingly competitive market.”

(Source: Agoda)

Vietjet: One-week SGD bargain fares

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Newsdesk

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August 4, 2026

SINGAPORE, 4 August 2026: Vietjet is launching a week-long promotion for Singapore travellers, featuring hundreds of thousands of Eco tickets from SGD86 one-way (including taxes and fees) across its domestic and international Singapore-Vietnam network.

The promotion follows Vietjet’s first recognition as Best Hybrid Airline at the Korea Consumer Awards 2026, highlighting a key milestone in its ongoing hybrid transformation.

The promotion covers direct flights from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc, as well as the upcoming Singapore-Nha Trang service, scheduled to launch in December 2026.

Until 1200 on 9 August 2026 (GMT+8), travellers can book promotional Eco fare tickets for flights to Vietnam via the airline’s website and mobile app, as well as other authorised sales channels. The fares are available for travel between 5 September 2026 and 31 March 2027 (excluding public holidays and peak travel periods, subject to market conditions) and also apply to domestic routes in Vietnam and other international services.

The promotion includes direct flights from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc, as well as the upcoming Singapore-Nha Trang service, scheduled to launch at the end of this year.

Passengers looking for additional comfort can also enjoy 30% off Business and SkyBoss fares on all direct international flights by using the promo code BUSB88. A 20% discount on Deluxe fares for Hanoi-Almaty-Prague flights is available with the promo code DLX88.

To make every journey even more enjoyable, passengers who pre-order meal combos will also receive an instant 50% discount. This meal promotion applies across Vietjet’s network direct services, for travel between 18 August 2026 and 31 March 2027.

*Vietjet received the Best Hybrid Airline, Best In-Flight Food Experience, and Service Excellence Award at the Korea Consumer Awards 2026 (KCA), held in Seoul, South Korea.*

The airline continues to expand its international network with the launch of new direct routes linking Hanoi to Prague (Czech Republic) and Almaty (Kazakhstan), and linking Ho Chi Minh City to Colombo (Sri Lanka) later this year.

(Source: Vietjet)

APT christens river cruise ship in Vienna

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Newsdesk

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August 3, 2026

MELBOURNE, 3 August 2026: The APT Travel Group celebrated the christening of its luxury river ship, the APT Ostara, last week in a ceremony held in Vienna.

As the family-owned business approaches its centenary in 2027, the occasion was a reminder of the story at the heart of the family cruise venture’s legacy.

*Traditional breaking of the champagne bottle against the hull, officially christening the APT Ostara.*

“As the third generation to lead our family business, Ostara represents our commitment to the future; a next-generation river ship, designed for the next generation of APT travellers. Sharing this milestone with my daughter today was especially meaningful. It was a reminder that family businesses are built by thinking beyond today,” said Family Principal and Director Lou Tandy.

The APT Travel Group CEO David Cox added: “As we approach our centenary, Ostara and Solara are a reflection of both our heritage and our future. They honour nearly 100 years of experience while demonstrating our commitment to continued growth, innovation and investment in the guest experience. These ships build on everything APT is known for, while helping shape the next chapter of our business and the journeys we’ll create for future generations of travellers.”

Like her sister ship, APT Ostara’s interiors were designed by acclaimed Melbourne-based studio Hecker Guthrie, bringing the same sophistication to every space onboard.

With a capacity for just 154 guests, APT Ostara mirrors the refined design of her sister ship, featuring the same expansive Balcony and Owner’s Suites, and The Grüner Bar & Dining, which lifts hydraulically to offer sweeping 360-degree views from the Sun Deck. Dining is at the heart of the experience, with six distinctive venues plus in-suite dining.

APT’s river cruise packages cover Europe’s iconic rivers plus Australia’s Murray, China’s Yangtze, South America’s Amazon, Southeast Asia’s Mekong and India’s Lower Ganges.

About APT
The APT Travel Group’s flagship brand, APT has pioneered a diverse range of cruising and touring styles to deliver holidays that take in every corner of the globe. www.aptouring.com/en-au

(Source: APT)

Princess releases 2028 Alaska cruises

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Newsdesk

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August 3, 2026

SINGAPORE, 3 August 2026: Princess Cruises’ 2028 Alaska season will feature 185 departures across 14 itineraries aboard eight ships, including the Star Princess — from glacier-rich voyages and wildlife-filled ports to cruisetours and Princess Wilderness Lodge stays near some of the state’s most celebrated national parks.

Princess Cruises has been sailing to Alaska since 1969, giving the brand nearly six decades of experience creating cruise and land vacations.

*Photo credit: Princess Cruises. Crown Princess is one of eight ships sailing Alaska.*

The 2028 Alaska season features eight ships, including the new Star Princess as well as Discovery Princess, Emerald Princess, Royal Princess, Coral Princess, Crown Princess, Island Princess, and Ruby Princess.

Departures from Seattle, Vancouver, British Columbia, Anchorage (Whittier), San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Visits to 16 destinations, including Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.
Scenic cruising through four of Alaska’s most spectacular glacier regions: Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, and Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier.

86 visits to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Princess’ celebrated Voyage of the Glaciers itineraries remain the hallmark of the Alaska season, sailing between Anchorage (Whittier) and Vancouver, British Columbia. These one-way voyages showcase some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery, including visits to iconic ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway, with many itineraries featuring two glacier-viewing experiences and opportunities to combine the cruise with an immersive land-based cruisetour.

Roundtrip Inside Passage – Convenience from Desirable Homeports

Guests can also choose from a wide variety of roundtrip Inside Passage voyages departing from Seattle, Vancouver, British Columbia, San Francisco and Los Angeles, offering a convenient way to experience Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife and picturesque coastal communities. Ideal for first-time Alaska travellers, roundtrip Inside Passage voyages offer a convenient, approachable way to experience the region’s glaciers, wildlife and coastal communities from desirable West Coast homeports.

For guests who want to go beyond the coastline, Princess cruisetours combine the ease of a cruise with multiple nights on land, offering a seamless way to experience Alaska’s interior, national parks and Princess Wilderness Lodges in one vacation.

(Source: Princess Cruises)

AI investment surge: the next step in tourism

By

Andrew Wood

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August 3, 2026

BANGKOK, 3 August 2026: Microsoft’s outstanding second quarter results have restored investor confidence in artificial intelligence while delivering encouraging news for the global travel and tourism industry, where AI is becoming an increasingly important driver of innovation and growth.

The technology giant’s latest earnings provided investors with the proof many had been seeking that massive investment in AI infrastructure is producing measurable commercial returns rather than simply increasing costs.

*Artificial intelligence – the next major step in travel and tourism’s evolution.*

The company reported stronger-than-expected growth in its Azure platform, demonstrating that demand for AI services continues to accelerate and translate into higher revenues.

Azure is Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, similar to Amazon Web Services (AWS) from Amazon and Google Cloud from Google.

Think of Azure as a vast global network of data centres that provides computing power, storage and artificial intelligence services over the internet.

For AI, this is especially important because it:

Hosts AI models such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT for businesses.

Provides the computing power needed to train and run AI systems.

Enables companies to build their own AI applications without needing to own expensive supercomputers.

Stores and processes enormous amounts of data.

The company also reaffirmed its commitment to substantial AI capital expenditure, while customer demand still exceeds available computing capacity, indicating that the industry’s expansion is far from complete.

Investors responded enthusiastically. Microsoft shares rose about 15 to 16 per cent following the announcement, adding almost US$450 billion in market value in a single trading session, the largest one-day increase ever recorded by a public company.

The results helped answer one of the market’s biggest questions following the recent semiconductor correction: would the world’s largest cloud providers begin cutting AI investment?

The answer was a clear no.

This demonstrated that AI is already driving significant growth and confirmed that companies intend to continue investing aggressively to meet rising demand.

Travel and Tourism’s relationship with AI.

Amazon added further support by reporting strong performance in Amazon Web Services while increasing planned AI investment to approximately US$220 billion for 2026. Although Meta’s results this week highlighted pressure on free cash flow and margins from heavy AI spending, it also maintained its long-term commitment to AI development.

Together, these announcements helped trigger a strong recovery in semiconductor shares, including South Korean leaders SK hynix and Samsung Electronics, both major suppliers of advanced high-bandwidth memory chips that power AI systems.

Why this matters for travel and tourism

Having worked in hotels and tourism for more than four decades, I have witnessed countless technological advances, from the arrival of computerised reservations to the internet, online booking platforms and mobile travel. Artificial intelligence represents the next major step in that evolution.

From my own experience, I have seen AI move rapidly from being an interesting concept to becoming a practical tool used every day across the travel and hospitality industry.

Hotels are increasingly using AI to respond more quickly to guest requests, improve customer communications and assist staff in delivering more personalised service. Airlines are applying AI to optimise schedules, predict maintenance needs, and improve operational efficiency, while destinations and travel companies are embracing intelligent systems to enhance customer engagement and simplify planning.

Perhaps most encouraging has been the enthusiasm shown by a new generation of hospitality professionals. Since the industry’s rebuilding following the Covid-19 pandemic, I have observed many younger colleagues naturally embracing AI in their daily work. Whether preparing reports, analysing data, improving communication, or responding more efficiently to guests, they use these tools not to replace personal service but to enhance it.

I have also seen AI increasingly supporting hotels, restaurants and airport front-line customer contacts. From information services and concierge assistance to handling requests and responding more quickly to service demands, AI is helping hospitality professionals spend less time on routine tasks and more time focusing on customers and guests.

In my view, this can only be positive.

The hospitality industry has always been about people. AI will never replace genuine warmth, empathy or personal attention. Instead, I believe it enables staff to spend more time doing what they do best: looking after customers.

Microsoft’s latest results therefore represent far more than another impressive technology earnings report. They reinforce confidence that investment in the digital infrastructure supporting AI will continue, giving travel and tourism businesses access to increasingly powerful tools that can improve service, productivity and the overall guest experience.

For an industry built on creating memorable experiences, that is welcome news indeed.

About the Author
Andrew J Wood is a Bangkok-based travel writer, media executive and former hotel general manager with more than four decades of experience across Asia’s hospitality and tourism industries. A former Director of Skål International, Past President of Skål Asia and Past President of Skål International Thailand and Bangkok, he is currently Vice President of Skål International Bangkok. A respected commentator on travel, aviation, hospitality and business trends, he has received Skål International’s Order of Merit and Membre d’Honneur in recognition of his contribution to global tourism. His articles are widely published in leading regional and international media.

The inaugural World Kitchen of Spices

By

Dr Scott Smith

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August 3, 2026

SONGKHLA, Thailand: 3 August 2026: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thailand Gastronomy Network and HUG — Hatyai University Gastronomy Lab will invite international audiences into a live culinary exchange on 5 August, using curry pastes, local stories and shared Asian ingredients to spotlight Songkhla as an emerging gastronomy destination.

The inaugural World Kitchen of Spices: Thailand × Indonesia will stream live from Songkhla, connecting chefs, educators, tourism professionals, students, entrepreneurs and food lovers in Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong and beyond. Participants can cook along or join in a Watch & Learn format.

*World Kitchen of Spices links Thailand, Indonesia and Hong Kong on 5 August as The Bold Flavour shares Southern Thailand’s culinary heritage with global audiences.*

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University will join the World Kitchen Club livestream as a programme partner, represented by Chef Samantha Tam, Instructor at its School of Hotel and Tourism Management.

A live platform for Thai culture and destination storytelling

The livestream will also mark the official launch of The Bold Flavour | Tam Rot Songkhla, a destination campaign jointly driven by TAT, the Thailand Gastronomy Network and HUG. The campaign invites travellers to experience Songkhla through its ingredients, communities, culinary traditions and creative food culture while giving local hosts a stronger platform to reach international audiences.

Led by Asst. Prof Dr Jutamas “Jan” Wisansing, Founder and President of the Thailand Gastronomy Network and Strategic Lead of HUG, the programme will compare Southern Thai curry paste with Indonesia’s rempah and sambal traditions. Rather than following a recipe-first cooking-show format, it will explore how place, trade, migration, belief and family memory shape the meaning of food.

“Thailand and Indonesia share centuries of culinary exchange through spices, trade and culture,” said Indonesia Gastronomy Network President Vita Datau. “The World Kitchen of Spices opens a new platform for cultural diplomacy, learning and collaboration that celebrates our shared heritage while respecting our unique identities.”

Turning food heritage into visitor value

The initiative builds on Songkhla’s THB 50.66 billion visitor economy in 2025, generated by 6,968,599 visitor trips, according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. In the first half of 2026, the province recorded THB27.51 billion from 3,841,886 visitor trips. International visitors represented 52.5% of trips and generated THB 15.09 billion.

At the heart of The Bold Flavour is a network of 47 Founding Gastronomy Experience Designers, including chefs, farmers, artisans, producers, community enterprises, cafés, local businesses and cultural hosts. Their prototypes span lagoon and coastal food journeys, halal gastronomy, heritage cafés, traditional recipes, artisan products, community dining and local beverage culture.

HUG will shortlist and refine 10 to 15 Signature Gastronomy Experiences with clearer propositions, pricing and tools that connect local hosts with buyers. The aim is to increase value per trip and retain more visitor spending among local producers, farmers, chefs, craftspeople and communities.

Explore the 47 designer and prototype experience profiles in The Bold Flavour | Songkhla Experience Collection.

“HUG is more than a laboratory; it is a living platform where research meets communities, creativity meets culture, and local knowledge becomes meaningful visitor experiences,” Dr Wisansing said. “Through Kitchen Club, The Bold Flavour and our network of gastronomy experience designers, we aim to position Songkhla as a living classroom and international meeting place for gastronomy innovation, where local flavours inspire global conversations.”

Regional partners extend the story

The Indonesia Gastronomy Network is the initiative’s strategic partner. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University joins as a program partner, while the World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage and the Responsible Tourism Development Academy are supporting partners.

Krungthai Card Public Company Limited (KTC) is the campaign’s privilege partner, helping turn campaign interest into travel planning and local spending through participating Songkhla restaurants. View KTC Songkhla dining privileges.

Recorded content will support future educational resources, recipes, ingredient guides and cross-cultural learning. Future World Kitchen editions may explore fermentation, rice cultures, coffee and tea, honey and terroir, halal kitchens, coastal ingredients and wellness traditions.

Event details

Programme: Kitchen Club by TGN presents Let’s Cook The Place – #SongkhlaEdition Featuring The World Kitchen of Spices: Thailand × Indonesia

Date: 5 August 2026

Time: 1330–1445 Thailand time (UTC+7)

Format: Live interactive experience via Zoom

Broadcast hub: HUG – Hatyai University Gastronomy Lab, Songkhla

Participation: Choose Cook Along or Watch & Learn

Registered participants will receive a World Kitchen e-booklet, exclusive recipes, an ingredient guide and live Zoom access.

Register: https://forms.gle/RHbPt766AY5QMbBM9

Website: Thailand Gastronomy Network

Viking adopts Chinese-language cruises

By

Newsdesk

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August 3, 2026

SINGAPORE, 3 August 2026: Viking will launch Chinese-language cruises in Northern Europe next year, betting on the growing demand in China for slower-paced and more immersive overseas holidays.

Two ocean itineraries will begin operating in April 2027, making them the first Northern European voyages designed specifically for Chinese-speaking guests. This comes as international cruise operators seek to tap a boom in China’s outbound travel market, particularly among affluent consumers looking beyond conventional group tours.

“More than 100,000 Chinese guests have travelled with Viking, making China an important source market for our global fleet,” Viking China managing director Brendan Tansey told China Daily. He added that the company is confident in China’s premium travel market.

Its 930-guest ocean vessel, Viking Yidun, provides Chinese-language signage, entertainment systems, hotel services, and shore assistance, as well as Chinese electrical outlets, kettles, and a mix of Chinese and Western food.

Mediterranean season

The expansion follows the company’s launch of Chinese-language Mediterranean cruises on Viking Yidun, which will be sailing her first Mediterranean season from August this year until March 2027. The ship will offer eight- to 22-day regional sailings covering Western and Eastern Mediterranean ports, spanning nine countries including Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, France, Monaco, Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia.

The ship is currently sailing her first 60-day transcontinental voyage, which started in Shanghai in early June and will arrive in Barcelona in early August in time to start her maiden Mediterranean season.

Viking Yidun will continue to operate Chinese-language Mediterranean voyages during the winter of 2027 and will offer more than 10 combined ocean voyages, including a 60-day journey from Athens to Stockholm that covers 18 countries and 40 cities.

New itineraries for Northern Europe

The new routes comprise a 15-day voyage from Oslo to Stockholm, covering three Nordic capitals, Norwegian fjords, Berlin and destinations along historic Hanseatic trade routes, and a 14-day voyage from Lisbon to Oslo along Europe’s Atlantic coast.

Viking China will also introduce land-tour extensions in Oslo, Stockholm and Reykjavik.

14-Day repositioning cruise from Lisbon to Oslo: The itinerary departs on 9 April 2027 and includes visits to nine cities, including Porto (overnight), A Coruña and Bilbao in Spain; Pauillac and Bordeaux (overnight) in France; Le Havre in France; Zeebrugge in Belgium; and Kristiansand in Norway, before arriving in Oslo (overnight).

15-Day Viking Nordic Discovery: Oslo to Stockholm. Sailing dates — 22 April, 17 June, 15 July and 12 August.

Stockholm to Oslo sailing dates — 6 May, 3 June, 29 July and 26 August
Seven Countries | 12 Destinations | 12 Shore Excursions and Experiences.

Guests will spend the night on board in Oslo before it sails to the Norwegian ports of Kristiansand, Bergen, Eidfjord, and Stavanger, then arrives in Copenhagen for another overnight before sailing the following morning to Warnemünde (Berlin). After which, the ship will visit Rønne, Bornholm, Denmark; Gdansk, Poland; Klaipeda, Lithuania; and Riga, Latvia, before arriving in Stockholm for another overnight stay.

15-Day Viking Nordic Discovery: There will be two Extended Journeys on 20 May and 1 July, each with an additional stop in Gothenburg, bringing the total to 13 destinations.

Oslo to Stockholm — Sailing date: 20 May
Stockholm to Oslo — Sailing date: 1 July
Seven Countries | 13 Destinations | 12 Included Shore Excursions and Experiences.

Begins in Oslo and travels through Norway, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Sweden. Explore the Nordic capitals of Copenhagen and Stockholm, and visit Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city and the birthplace of Volvo.

(Source: Viking)

IATA: Air passenger demand falls 1.7% in June

By

Newsdesk

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August 3, 2026

SINGAPORE, 3 August 2026: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for June 2026 indicating that total global passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), declined by 1.7% compared to June 2025.

Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), decreased 1.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 84.2% (-0.4 ppt compared to June 2025).

International demand fell 0.9% compared to June 2025. Excluding the Middle East, demand grew by 1.1%. Capacity was down 0.6% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.2% (-0.2 ppt compared to June 2025).

“Global demand for air travel was down 1.7% in June compared to 2025. This is largely due to domestic market declines in China, the US and Japan, and weak but improving international demand for Middle East carriers. While performance in the Middle East improved, renewed tensions will not help the region’s recovery, and the knock-on impact of rising fuel prices will continue to burden travellers with higher airfares.

People continue to travel, which is an important contributor to global economic growth. There is no doubt, however, that stabilising the situation in the Middle East and normalising oil supplies would improve prospects for airlines, economies and societies the world over,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.

Regional Breakdown — International Passenger Markets

International RPK fell 0.9%, with capacity falling 0.6%. Excluding the Middle East, international traffic was up 1.1%.

Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 0.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity decreased 1.1% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.0% (+1.3 ppt compared to June 2025). Slower growth was a result of some carriers cutting back on short-haul routes due to higher fuel prices (capacity on international routes within Asia was down 4.8%).

European carriers saw a 1.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.0% year-on-year, and the load factor was 87.1% (-0.5 ppt compared to June 2025). Growth on the Europe-Asia corridor was 11.0%, the fastest growth among all major international route corridors.

North American carriers saw a 1.0% year-on-year decrease in demand. Capacity decreased 0.7% year-on-year, and the load factor was 86.9% (-0.3 ppt compared to June 2025).

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 14% year-on-year decrease in demand. Capacity fell 11% year-on-year, and the load factor was 76.3% (-2.6 ppt compared to June 2025). The impacts of the Iran war continue to cause a highly negative year-on-year traffic comparison, but the rate of decline halved month-to-month since April. This reflects both the gradual normalisation of airline operations across the region and the lower comparison base, as traffic in June 2025 was impacted by the military strikes that month.

Latin American airlines achieved a 3.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 6.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 81.6% (-2.2 ppt compared to June 2025).

African airlines saw a 6.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 7.0% year-on-year. The load factor was 74.2% (-0.3 ppt compared to June 2025).

For more information, check out IATA’s

Air Passenger Market Analysis – Traffic Contraction Eased Slightly in June.

(Source: IATA)

Air India Express expands Bhopal routes

By

Newsdesk

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August 3, 2026

NEW DELHI, 3 August 2026: Air India Express commenced operations on Saturday from Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal, with the launch of two daily flights to Delhi and a daily flight to Mumbai, strengthening connectivity from Madhya Pradesh’s capital.

The inaugural flight to Delhi departed Raja Bhoj Airport at 1245 and arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport at 1415. The first flight to Mumbai departed Bhopal at 1340 and landed at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at 1525.

Bookings for these flights are open on airindiaexpress.com, the Air India Express mobile app, and other major booking channels.

Air India Express recently strengthened Madhya Pradesh’s international connectivity by launching direct flights between Indore and Abu Dhabi. With the commencement of services from Bhopal, the airline now operates around 55 weekly flights across Bhopal, Gwalior, and Indore.

Beyond enhancing connectivity to support tourism, trade, and economic growth, Air India Express continues to celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through its Tales of India initiative. Madhya Pradesh is proudly represented on the airline’s Boeing 737-8 aircraft, VT-BXQ and VT-BXY, featuring tail art inspired by the state’s iconic Bagh hand-block printing tradition and Chanderi handwoven textile, respectively.

(Source: Air India Express)

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi opens this December

Travellers ask for pay-on-arrival options

Vietjet: One-week SGD bargain fares

APT christens river cruise ship in Vienna

Princess releases 2028 Alaska cruises

AI investment surge: the next step in tourism

The inaugural World Kitchen of Spices

Viking adopts Chinese-language cruises

IATA: Air passenger demand falls 1.7% in June

Air India Express expands Bhopal routes

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