BANGKOK, 28 April 2025: Thai Lion Air is expanding its route network with new international flights to Changsha, China and Surabaya, Indonesia, plus two domestic routes Bangkok (DMK) – Nakhon Phanom and Utapao (UTH) – Udon Thani in northeast Thailand.
The new services are scheduled to start from May to mid-June 2025 using Boeing 737-8 aircraft.
Domestic routes
The Bangkok (DMK)—Nakhon Phanom (KOP) route will commence with double daily flights on 19 June 2025.
SL670 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 0730 and arrives in Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 0855. SL674 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1720 and arrives in Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 1845.
SL671 departs Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 0935 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1100. SL675 departs Nakhon Phanom (KOP) at 1925 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 2055.
Udon Thani (UTH) – U Tapao (UTP) every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday starting 11 June 2568.
SL588 departs Udon Thani (UTH) at 1120 and arrives in U Tapao (UTP) at 1240. SL589 departs U Tapao (UTP) at 1330 and arrives in Uthai Thani (UTH) at 1450.
International routes
Bangkok Don Mueang – Changsha, China. Direct daily flights start on 1 May 2025.
SL934 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 0920 and arrives in Changsha (CSX) at 1335. SL935 depart Changsha (CSX) at 1435 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1650.
Bangkok Don Mueang – Surabaya (Indonesia). Flights are scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, starting 30 May 2025.
SL268 departs Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 1120 and arrives in Surabaya (SUB) at 1520. SL269 departs Surabaya (SUB) at 1620 and arrives in Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) at 2030.
Commenting on the new routes, the airline posted on its Facebook account that opening the direct routes, both domestic and international, “will make travel between regions and neighbouring countries more convenient and faster for travellers whether on business or visiting relatives.”
KUALA LUMPUR, 28 April 2025: Malaysia Airlines and Melbourne Airport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that supports the airline’s expansion in Melbourne marking a significant step forward in strengthening air connectivity between Malaysia and Australia.
The signing ceremony held at the MATTA Fair 2025 19 April focuses on expanding Malaysia Airlines’ network and helps establish Kuala Lumpur as a gateway for Australians travelling to Malaysia and beyond.
As part of its expansion, Malaysia Airlines will introduce a third daily service from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne starting October 2025, increasing weekly flights from 14 to 21.
Malaysia Aviation Group, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines Dersenish Aresandiran said: “This collaboration marks an exciting new chapter for Malaysia Airlines as we expand our network with the introduction of a third daily service to Melbourne.
We are committed to providing passengers with more direct flight options while ensuring an exceptional travel experience defined by comfort, premium service, and the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality. Through our collaboration with Melbourne Airport, we aim to enhance connectivity, drive demand, and reinforce our position as the gateway to Asia and beyond. Our partnership with Melbourne Airport aims to enhance connectivity, drive demand, and reinforce our position as the gateway to Asia and beyond. This initiative will strengthen ties between Malaysia and Australia, supporting cultural, business, and tourism exchanges and creating new opportunities for both regions.”
Malaysia Airlines will progressively deploy its brand-new A330neo aircraft on the Kuala Lumpur – Melbourne route, aiming to operate all 21 weekly flights using the new fleet by the end of the year. It will also improve connections via Kuala Lumpur to destinations across Southeast Asia, India, and Europe.
Additional flights scheduled through to 31 October 2025
Malaysia Aviation Group reports 2024 net profit
Meanwhile Malaysia Aviation Group Malaysia Aviation Group reports a positive Net Profit After Interest and Tax of MYR54 million for the year 2024, marking a third consecutive year of positive operating profit at MYR113million.
The performance, underscored by robust Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of MYR788 million, was achieved despite operational headwinds, including proactive network cuts in Q4 2024, which reduced capacity by 18%.
The airline group maintained a strong cash balance of MYR3 billion as of 31 December 2024, without any capital injections from its main shareholder, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, since October 2021.
The capacity cuts, driven by supply chain disruptions which extended maintenance times and delays in new aircraft delivery, were implemented during a traditionally strong quarter, impacting the group’s full-year revenue, which stood at MYR13,679 million — a marginal 1% decrease year-on-year on the back of a 6% increase in Available Seat Kilometre (ASK). However, passenger traffic remained robust in the premium segment, with stronger load factors for both passenger and cargo segments. The group also expanded its international network through new routes and deep partnership collaborations..
By 2030, the group aims to operate a new generation narrowbody fleet of 55 aircraft comprising the Boeing 737-8 and 737-10, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and flexibility to better serve both domestic and international markets. In parallel, the group is integrating A330neo aircraft into its long-haul network. Two aircraft have already entered service, operating to Melbourne, Bali and Auckland, with eight more expected this year.
With forward bookings increasing approximately 9% year-on-year, the group anticipates expanding its presence in key markets, including ASEAN, Australia, New Zealand, and South Asia, reinforcing Kuala Lumpur as a gateway to Asia and beyond. This strategic growth is further complemented by its return to Paris on 22 March 2025, marking the second European destination in the network.
MAB’s yearly capacity increased by 7%, with a 17% rise in passengers carried and a load factor of 81% compared to 77% in 2023.
MAB introduced three new destinations: Male (Maldives), Danang (Vietnam), and Chiang Mai (Thailand), and resumed flights to Kolkata, India.
BANGKOK, 25 April 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts invites travellers to experience unparalleled luxury with its ‘Suite Heaven’offer that delivers savings, complimentary hotel credit, and exclusive members-only benefits.
Incentives are available when booking premium rooms, suites, and villas at participating Centara hotels and resorts across Thailand, the Maldives, Japan, Vietnam, the Middle East, and beyond.
Guests who book until 31 December 2025 for stays until 31 March 2026 will enjoy 25% off the best available rates at participating Centara hotels and resorts worldwide, ensuring the ultimate comfort and style. Each stay includes a hotel credit worth 15% of the total paid booking, redeemable toward exquisite dining, drinks, and rejuvenating spa treatments.
CentaraThe1 members enjoy an extra 15% off plus triple points as an added privilege.
From the overwater villas of the Maldives to the dynamic cityscapes of Bangkok and Osaka, and the cultural wonders of Vietnam and the Middle East, ‘Suite Heaven’ offers the perfect opportunity to experience luxurious comfort in extraordinary destinations worldwide. Whether seeking a serene beachfront sanctuary, family fun by the sea, or an exciting urban retreat, Centara’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality and world-class service are at the heart of every stay.
About Centara Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 87 properties span all major Thai destinations, including the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.
KRABI, 25 April 2025: From “I can’t swim” to competing with the world: How Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort empowers local youth through swimming. Check its latest video, Heroes of Hospitality.
In the serene paradise of Krabi, Thailand, a heartwarming initiative is making waves — transforming young lives through the life-changing power of swimming.
Co-founded in 2019 by the resort’s Recreation Manager, Thaworn Srimun, the Junior Sports Team began with a simple mission — teach local children from nearby Ban Klong Muang School how to swim. Since then, it has grown into a meaningful initiative that nurtures not only essential water safety and swimming skills, but also confidence, resilience, and a sense of ambition.
Each year, Thaworn and a dedicated team of Dusit associates contribute more than 600 volunteer hours to coaching. Under their patient guidance, children progress from learning in the resort’s pool to swimming confidently in the open waters of the Andaman Sea. For those who show incredible swimming skills, it may culminate in the extraordinary opportunity to compete in Oceanman Krabi, one of the region’s most prestigious open-water swimming events.
Behind the scenes, Dusit Krabi’s Administration and Social Media Executive, Supranee Ruenreung, plays a vital role in ensuring every session is safe, balanced, and aligned with the programme’s true purpose: empowerment, not just podium finishes.
The Junior Sports Team is more than just a swimming programme. It’s a powerful example of how hospitality can extend beyond hotel walls — creating opportunities, unlocking potential, and fostering lasting change in the community.
Chance to shine at the Oceanman Krabi
The Oceanman Krabi is an open-water swimming event in the Oceanman series of races, which are held in various locations worldwide.
Location: The event is typically held at Klong Mueang Beach in the Nong Thale sub-district of the Mueang Krabi district, near the Ao Nang and Noppharat Thara beaches.
Distances: The Oceanman Krabi offers several race distances to cater to different levels of swimmers:
Oceanman: 10 kilometers
Half Oceanman: 5 km
Sprint: 2 km
Oceankids: 500 metres
Oceanteams: 3 x 500 metres relay
Schedule: The event held in late March annually typically lasts three days and includes social swims, registration, race briefings, primary races, and award ceremonies.
Part of a series: Oceanman Krabi is part of the international Oceanman series, which aims for a significant global presence.
The Oceanman Krabi has been held annually since at least 2018, with the most recent event in March 2025.
BANGKOK, 25 April 2025: The Laguna Phuket Marathon 2025, presented by Supersports, returns for its 19th edition, 14 to 15 June, welcoming over 8,000 runners from 50 countries to the tropical shores of Phuket, Thailand.
More than just a race, this internationally certified event blends fitness, fun, and philanthropy in one vibrant weekend.
Photo credit: Laguna Phuket Marathon.
Held in Laguna Grove, the event features the “Run Sunset & Run Sunrise” format, with family-friendly races on Saturday evening and the flagship Half and Full Marathons on Sunday morning. The scenic course winds through rubber plantations, coastal roads, and local villages, offering runners views of Phuket’s coastal beauty.
This year, the marathon deepens its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and inclusivity — introducing new race categories for runners aged 70 plus. It also supports local charities through the Laguna Phuket Foundation and the Children First Fund.
About the author Andrew J Wood is a respected travel writer, hotelier, and tourism lecturer with over four decades of experience in Southeast Asia’s hospitality and tourism sectors. A former general manager of several leading hotels in Thailand and a regular speaker at international tourism forums, he is widely recognised for his insight into emerging travel trends and his passionate advocacy for Thailand as a world-class destination.
HONG KONG, 25 April 2025: Visa, a global leader in digital payments, announced the launch of #TravelWithVisa in Hong Kong, an ongoing regional initiative designed to connect travellers with major destinations in Asia Pacific.
With a multi-phased approach, the initiative aims to enrich travel experiences, boost travel spending, and contribute to the Asia Pacific’s tourism economy, which saw a remarkable 26% increase in cross-border trips originating within the region in 2024, outpacing the global growth rate of 12%.
Photo credit: Visa. Visa Regional President Asia Pacific, Stephen Karpin.
Shaping travel experiences in the Asia Pacific
The Asia Pacific region plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism. In 2024, seven out of the top 10 fastest-growing travel destinations globally, in terms of arrivals, are from the Asia Pacific region, including Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.
Leveraging this momentum and as the first phase of the #TravelWithVisa initiative, Visa has announced partnerships with five international airlines — Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Ethiopian Airlines, EVA AIR, and Singapore Airlines, to offer Hong Kong and Macau outbound travellers rewarding flight experiences with premium benefits.
These efforts are further supported by tourism offices across the Asia Pacific, including the Japan National Tourism Organization, Macao Government Tourism Office, Singapore Tourism Board, and Taiwan Visitors Association Hong Kong Office, all of which contribute to the #TravelWithVisa vision.
The initiative will collaborate with major banks and introduce new offerings and features through Visa travel card programmes to further enrich every traveller’s journey.
In the next phase, #TravelWithVisa will showcase Visa’s intercity smart mobility solutions enabling a more efficient door-to-door travel journey, along with merchant offers that will curate new travel experiences and exclusive access to mega events across Asia Pacific for Visa cardholders. #TravelwithVisa is set to facilitate seamless, safe and enjoyable payment experiences while transforming how people travel and explore the world.
Visa Regional President Asia Pacific, Stephen Karpin said: “Travel is a powerful catalyst for fostering global connections, bridging cultures, and driving economic prosperity. This is at the heart of our #TravelWithVisa initiative, which is designed to unlock transformative growth opportunities across Asia Pacific. By collaborating with a network of partners and leveraging our robust payment solutions, we deliver exceptional value and seamless travel experiences to consumers. We also want to thank the tourism offices for supporting our vision. Together, we contribute to the tourism ecosystem and the region’s economic development.”
A mission to advance the Travel
Visa is committed to elevating the travel experiences across Asia Pacific and the world. Recent highlights include Visa’s Olympic and Paralympic Games sponsorships, the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA Awards), the Red Bull F1 teams and The FIFA World Cup, bringing exciting and unique entertainment to travellers. To facilitate efficient and convenient journeys for urban commuters, Visa has launched its contactless payment solution, Tap to Ride, for transit operators in key cities across Asia, including China Mainland, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, the Maldives, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.
HONG KONG, 25 April 2025: StarCruises will debut the Star Voyager cruise ship in Hong Kong from 27 June to 31 August 2025.
It marks the return of the revitalised StarCruises brand to one of its most iconic homeports, which started cruises in Hong Kong more than 30 years ago.
Star Voyager heads for Hong Kong homeport.
The arrival of Star Voyager should significantly boost cruise tourism in Hong Kong and across the region. It will offer travellers a fresh wave of voyage options while reaffirming StarCruises’ long-standing commitment to Asia’s dynamic cruise market.
During her homeport season in Hong Kong, Star Voyager will offer a series of itineraries, including two, three, and five-night cruises to destinations such as Taipei (Keelung), Kaohsiung and Penghu in Taiwan, as well as to Naha and Ishigaki in Okinawa, Japan. Among the highlights is the return of the popular two-night weekend high seas cruise, departing every Friday and tailored for guests seeking a short escape at sea.
“We are proud to return to Hong Kong, a special city in StarCruises’ history and heritage. This homecoming is significant, as it reconnects us with our roots and long-standing legacy in the region. We’re thrilled to introduce Star Voyager as a symbol of our renewed vision—offering exceptional regional cruise experiences for the domestic market and the growing Fly and Rail cruise segment,” said StarDream Cruises President Michael Goh.
SINGAPORE, 25 April 2025: The Labour Day holiday on Thursday, 1 May, continues to be a peak travel period for many destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Holiday-makers from Japan, Vietnam, and mainland China seize more extended public holidays for domestic or overseas getaways.
Trip.com: Top destinations for Labour Day holiday bookings.
China: Labour Day is a significant holiday in China, and in 2025, the holiday will be observed for five days, from 1 to 5 May. This extended break is achieved by combining the official holiday with adjusted working days before and after.
Vietnam: In 2025, Vietnam will celebrate a five-day holiday from Wednesday, 30 April to Sunday, 4 May, encompassing Reunification Day and International Workers’ Day.
South Korea: Travellers in South Korea can enjoy a six-day break by utilising two days of annual leave around the Labour Day holiday on 1 May.
Japan: Its ‘Golden Week’ holiday runs from 29 April to 6 May.
Thailand: There isn’t an official bridging holiday on Friday to create a long weekend, but savvy office workers take leave on Friday to give them a four-day break, with domestic travel taking the lead.
According to Trip.com Group’s latest booking data, Asia-Pacific travellers are more interested in travelling closer to home this Labour Day holiday — domestically or regionally.
The top five cross-border destinations include Japan, China, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia. Overall, Asia-Pacific key markets have seen close to triple-digit growth for domestic travel, and strong double-digit growth in cross-border travel this May holiday season.
Accommodation preferences are also evolving. Travellers are expanding beyond traditional hotels, increasing demand for apartments, villas, and inns. Alternative stays have seen triple-digit booking growth in markets such as South Korea, Thailand, and Hong Kong SAR.
Travellers are increasingly turning to coastal locations for villa stays, especially where sea views and beach access are front and centre. This shift is particularly noticeable among Chinese mainland, Japanese, and South Korean travellers. Bali, for example, is experiencing a notable uptick in villa bookings.
In line with this shift, searches for nature-based breaks and Instagrammable destinations have recorded triple-digit growth, highlighting a growing desire for aesthetically appealing escapes that offer tranquillity and a deeper connection to the natural environment.
Regional travel takes off
Trip.com Group data shows strong cross-border travel from China and Japan compared to 2024.
Top regional destinations for Chinese travellers include Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore, while Japanese travellers are flocking to South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and the United States.
Notably, both South Korea and Vietnam have the opportunity to holiday for longer. Vietnam will celebrate a five-day holiday from Wednesday, 30 April to Sunday, 4 May, for Reunification Day and International Workers’ Day. On the other hand, South Korean travellers can utilise two days of annual leave to get six days off between 1 May and 6 May.
As such, booking data shows a substantial increase in domestic and cross-border bookings for both markets. Vietnam is witnessing an increase of over 190% in domestic bookings, with cross-border bookings exceeding 150%. The trend is similar for South Korea, with domestic bookings surging by nearly 190% and cross-border travel up by over 150%, indicating the impact of this extended May holiday.
A Rise in Multi-City Destinations
Making the most of the holidays is an ever-appealing trend across Asia, reflected by multi-destination stays. Bookings for trips to two or more cities have increased by 60% compared to last year.
Asia-Pacific multi-city itineraries are designed around clusters of closely connected cities within a single country. Travellers from Malaysia, for instance, choose to explore both Chengdu and Chongqing during trips to China, while visitors from Hong Kong SAR pair visits to Kyoto and Osaka in Japan. Chinese tourists also embrace this trend, favouring Japan and commonly combining Osaka and Tokyo into one seamless journey.
Flights over six hours are the fastest-growing flight segment compared to last year. Long-haul journeys among South Korean travellers are reaching triple-digit growth, and Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese travellers are seeing substantial double-digit increases.
As these long-haul trips rise in popularity, travellers can also opt to visit more than one destination per journey. Japanese tourists are opting for a blend of London and Barcelona, combining British heritage with Mediterranean vibrancy. Chinese travellers are exploring London and Edinburgh, capturing a north-south sweep of the UK. At the same time, South Korean visitors frequently pair London with Paris for a classic European twin-city experience.
ABU DHABI, 25 April 2025: Etihad Airways is expanding its African network with new destinations and increased frequencies, reinforcing its commitment to the continent’s growing demand for air connectivity.
Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De commented: “At Etihad, we have long recognised the need to strengthen our presence in Africa. Over the past year, we have focused on a holistic approach that enhances our presence by expanding our fleet, increasing frequencies, and forming key partnerships.
Etihad takes deliver of its sixth long-range A350.
“We’re encouraged by the positive early results and are pleased to announce the expansion of our Nairobi service to 14 weekly flights, as well as the increase of our Seychelles service to six weekly flights in partnership with Air Seychelles. We’re also introducing daily 787 services to Casablanca and Johannesburg.”
“Together with Air Seychelles and our groundbreaking relationship with Ethiopian Airlines, these strategic partnerships form a key foundation as we add four new direct routes to Africa from Abu Dhabi this year, underlining our growing commitment to service the dynamic continent.”
Nairobi
Etihad is pleased to announce that it will double its flights to Nairobi, Kenya, increasing to 14 weekly services starting 15 December 2025. The announcement comes less than a year since the airline resumed flights to the Kenyan capital, underlining the strength of the route.
Nairobi, a prominent East African business hub known as the “Green City in the Sun,” hosts Nairobi National Park within its boundaries. It offers a rich array of cultural attractions including museums and art galleries, and serves as a gateway to Kenya’s world-famous wildlife destinations.
The flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi is from 15 December 2025. All times local
Growing footprint in Africa
This expansion follows the recent addition of Addis Ababa, following the signing of a landmark Joint Venture agreement with Ethiopian Airlines, set to transform connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The strategic partnership also includes a codeshare arrangement, further supporting both passenger travel and cargo services.
Additionally, Etihad and Air Seychelles will collaborate on the six flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Mahe starting May 2025. Etihad customers can also access destinations such as Praslin and Mauritius via Air Seychelles’ direct service beyond Mahe. Under the codeshare agreement, travellers can look forward to a great flight experience with the same baggage allowance, a choice of complimentary food and drink, and inflight entertainment, with members of Etihad Guest earning miles on each flight.
These strategic partnerships strengthen Etihad’s commitment to Africa and provide new levels of connectivity across key African markets.
By December 2025, Etihad will substantially grow its footprint in Africa with additional flights between Abu Dhabi and the continent compared to December 2024.
Meanwhile, Etihad Airways has welcomed its sixth A350 to its growing fleet following delivery from Toulouse, France, last weekend. The long-range A350-1000 will begin operating on the route to Atlanta in the UK, the airline’s sixth gateway to North America and one of 16 new routes Etihad is launching this year.
DOHA, 25 April 2025: Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines have launched a partnership to expand service between Doha and Manila to improve connectivity for passengers from the Philippines travelling to Qatar and beyond.
Starting 16 June 2025, Philippine Airlines will offer daily nonstop flights between Manila and Doha. In the first phase of this strategic cooperation, Qatar Airways will codeshare on the seven weekly flights operated by Philippine Airlines.
The daily flights will depart Manila at 1850 and arrive in Doha at 2340. This will provide travellers from the Philippines with connectivity to over 170 destinations in the Qatar Airways network, spanning Africa, the Americas, Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Passengers will enjoy the luxury and comfort of transferring flights at Hamad International Airport (DOH).
Eastbound travellers arriving in Doha on Qatar Airways flights can connect with Philippine Airlines flights that depart daily from Doha at 0130 for an afternoon arrival at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 1615.
Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori said: “This strategic cooperation also aims to deepen the socio-economic ties between the Qatari and Filipino communities. We are proud of the new codeshare flights and look forward to delivering increased benefits to global travellers.”
Philippine Airlines President and Chief Operating Officer Captain Stanley K Ng said: “Our exciting strategic partnership with Qatar Airways enables us to offer daily frequency to Doha. This partnership will help us stimulate tourism, trade flows, and business growth in the strong bilateral relationship between the Philippines and Qatar. Our vital Overseas Filipino Workers and their families will also greatly benefit from this new partnership.”
The partner airlines will explore further opportunities for long-term collaboration, including promoting additional destinations in Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines’ respective networks and frequent flyer cooperation.
The daily nonstop flights will be operated on Philippine Airlines’ long-range Airbus A330-300 aircraft in a two-class configuration. The business class cabin will feature 18 flat-bed seats, and the economy class cabin has 341 seats.
