BAHRAIN, 17 November 2023: SKÅL International Bahrain Club has confirmed the 53rd Asian Area Congress will be hosted from 23 to 26 May, 2024 at the Gulf Hotel Convention and Exhibitions Centre in Bahrain.
The five-star Gulf Hotel quotes USD330 per person in double or twin accommodation for congress delegates.
Early bird registration, including a special package rate, opens on 1 December and closes on 15 January 2024. There is a limited allocation for the competitive package rate of USD660. The package price includes meals and drinks during the congress. Once the special package rate allocation is full, delegates will pay USD700 to attend.
Package rates
Rates above include breakfast and transfers.
Gulf Air offer Gulf Air extends its support by offering a 22% discount in business class and a 20% discount in economy class for SAAC 2024 delegates.
The event calendar features a pre-congress-hosted dinner for the SKÅL ASIA Board of Officers, all-day registration on Friday, and a spectacular opening ceremony on Saturday. Delegates will have the chance to participate in business lunches, networking events, and complimentary tours showcasing the beauty of Bahrain.
The congress concludes with a gala dinner on Sunday, featuring awards and the official handover of the congress banner.
SKÅL International Bahrain Club president, Mohamed Buziz notes that the Bahrain Tourism Authority is “fully behind the congress and will offer free visas on arrival” to Skålleagues and guests. “I am counting on the support of Skål clubs worldwide,” says Buzizi. Not to be missed, it will be a gathering like no other – extending hands of friendship and camaraderie to all.”
SINGAPORE, 17 November 2023: Emirates Group announced earlier this week its best-ever six-month financial results reporting a 2023-24 half-year net profit of AED10.1 billion (USD2.7 billion), surpassing its record half-year profit of AED4.2 billion (USD1.2 billion) last year by 138%.
The Group also reported an EBITDA of AED 20.6 billion (USD5.6 billion), a significant improvement from AED15.3 billion (USD4.2 billion) during the same period last year, illustrating its strong operating profitability.
Group earnings
Group revenue was AED67.3 billion (USD18.3 billion) for the first six months of 2023-24, up 20% from AED56.3 billion (USD15.3 billion) last year. This was driven by strong demand for air transport worldwide, which has been on an upward trajectory since pandemic travel restrictions were lifted.
The Group closed the first half year of 2023-24 with a solid cash position of AED42.7 billion (USD11.6 billion) on 30 September 2023, compared to AED42.5 billion (USD11.6 billion) on 31 March 2023. The Group has tapped into its strong cash reserves to support business needs, including debt payments. So far, Emirates has repaid AED 9.2 billion of its Covid-19-related loans. The Group also paid AED 4.5 billion in dividends to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2022-23 financial year.
Emirates airline performance
Emirates continued to increase its global flight operations, adding capacity and connections through its Dubai hub to meet customer demand across markets. During the first half of 2023-24, the airline restored A380 operations to Bali, Beijing, Birmingham, Casablanca, Nice, Shanghai, and Taiwan.
In July, it launched daily non-stop services to Montreal, a new destination and the airline’s second gateway in Canada.
Expanding connectivity options for customers, Emirates entered and enhanced codeshare or interline agreements with eight airlines in the first six months of 2023-24: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Etihad Airways, Kenya Airways, Philippine Airlines, Maldivian, Sri Lankan Airlines, and United Airlines. The codeshare partnership between Emirates and Qantas, which has seen over 15 million travellers benefit from joint flight itineraries since its establishment in 2013, received approvals for a further 5-year extension until 2027.
By 30 September, the airline operated passenger and cargo services to 144 airports, utilising its entire Boeing 777 fleet and 104 A380s. During the first six months of 2023-24, 10 A380 aircraft rolled out of Emirates’ retrofit programme with completely refreshed cabin interiors and the latest onboard products, including Premium Economy seats. This enabled the airline to deploy its highly sought-after Premium Economy services on more new routes, including New York JFK, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Singapore.
In the first half of 2023-24, Emirates launched a new global brand advertising campaign featuring Hollywood actor Penelope Cruz and introduced initiatives to enhance customer travel experience, including a new city check-in facility at Dubai International Financial Centre, free onboard wi-fi for Emirates Skywards members, and a new meal pre-ordering capability for customers to select their meal options in advance of travel.
Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 25% to 28.5 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to an expanded flight programme. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM) increased by 30%. In comparison, passenger traffic measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 35% with an average Passenger Seat Factor of 81.5%, compared with 78.5% during the same period last year.
Emirates profit for the first half of 2023-24 hit a new record of AED 9.4 billion (US$ 2.6 billion), compared to the same period last year’s profit of AED 4.0 billion (US$ 1.1 billion).
Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 59.5 billion (US$ 16.2 billion) was up 19% compared with the AED 50.1 billion (US$ 13.7 billion) recorded in the same period last year. The airline’s record performance is attributable to the strong passenger demand for international travel across markets and Emirates’ ability to activate capacity to match demand and offer customers great value and services.
Emirates’ direct operating costs (including fuel) grew by 9% in line with increased operations. Fuel remains the largest component of the airline’s operating cost (34%), compared to 38% in the same period last year.
Driven by strong demand and increased operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA grew by 33% to AED19.5 billion (USD5.3 billion) compared to AED14.7 billion (USD4.0 billion) for the same period last year. For airline information and bookings, visit www.emirates.com.
The resort’s SPA Cenvaree proudly claimed three prestigious awards, marking a significant milestone in this incredible destination’s journey toward excellence in the hospitality industry.
Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives’s SPA Cenvaree was honoured at the 17th Gala Ceremony of the World Luxury Awards, taking home three awards, namely Best Unique Experience Spa in Indian Ocean, Best Luxury Adult Only Spa in Indian Ocean, and Best Luxury Romantic Destination Spa in Indian Ocean.
Set amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the azure Indian Ocean, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa is an adult-only haven for those seeking romantic escapades. With the unique blend of tranquillity and captivating experiences, the resort has become the ultimate canvas for love stories to unfold.
The award-winning SPA Cenvaree, a realm of complete calm and tranquillity in this paradisiac resort, has played a pivotal role in creating this stunning environment. Offering experiences inspired by Ayurvedic and Thai healing traditions, SPA Cenvaree provides guests with various treatments and multi-day programs that immerse them in pure serenity and rejuvenation.
The World Luxury Awards celebrated the commitment and dedication of leading establishments in the luxury hospitality industry, gathering nearly 300 establishments worldwide to acknowledge their excellence. It understands the needs of modern travellers, who increasingly value experiences over possessions and are willing to invest in unique, authentic, and immersive travel experiences.
Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives stands as a beacon of excellence in the hospitality industry, redefining romance and relaxation in the heart of the Maldives. These awards reflect the resort’s dedication to providing guests with unforgettable experiences and further reinforce its reputation as a premier destination for romantic getaways. For more information about Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives and SPA Cenvaree, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/crf
SINGAPORE, 17 November 2023: The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a lodging business unit wholly owned by CapitaLand Investment (CLI), announced Tuesday the appointment of industry veterans David Cumming and Kanit Sangmookda to lead fast-growing markets within the group’s Southeast Asia portfolio.
Cumming
Kanit
David Cumming joins as regional general manager for Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar, and Kanit Sangmookda joins as country general manager for Thailand and Laos. These senior appointments support Ascott’s strategic goals to capitalise on the emerging opportunities in the region.
Ascott, managing director, Southeast Asia and head of strategy and global operations Wong Kar Ling commented: “Southeast Asia holds one of Ascott’s largest footprint spanning more than 65,000 units across almost 90 cities and growing. Our regional and country general managers are integral in leading our network of operationally-ready teams… David and Kanit bring extensive experience with global hotel chains, which will further strengthen our capability to grow Ascott’s portfolio of flex-hybrid properties to further us on our continued journey as a global hospitality company.”
As regional general manager of Ascott Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar, Cumming will oversee a portfolio of over 40 properties, where more than half are slated to open over the next three years.
As country general manager of Ascott Thailand and Laos, Kanit will manage a portfolio of over 30 properties where over a third is slated to open over the next three years.
SINGAPORE, 17 November 2023: Changi Airport Group (CAG) has launched Changi Carbon Offsets, allowing passengers to offset the carbon emissions from their air travel, regardless of the airline booked.
With the aid of the carbon calculator on the Changi Airport website (https://carbonoffsets.changiairport.com) and the Changi App, passengers can calculate the carbon emissions from their forthcoming flights based on the origin, destination and class of travel. After that, they will be offered the option to offset the emissions from their journey using their credit card for payment.
Photo credit: Changi Airport Group
CAG has selected a set of high-quality carbon offset projects that would significantly impact the environment and communities. This was done in partnership with Carbon Clicks, a New Zealand-based carbon offset company. These selected projects will help conserve and protect existing forests in Indonesia, plant forests in China, and provide wind power generation in India.
The launch of Changi Carbon Offsets is the latest initiative that CAG is taking along its sustainability journey to help mitigate carbon emissions. CAG also works closely with the airport community to improve the energy efficiency of the airport’s buildings and operations, enhance waste management and recycling, conserve water resources and ensure that airport facilities and functions adapt to the impact of climate change.
Changi Group senior vice president of regulatory affairs and sustainability Audrey Lee said: “Changi Carbon Offsets offers our passengers the opportunity to offset carbon emissions from their flights by supporting internationally-verified projects which will benefit the environment. As a demonstration of CAG’s commitment towards lower-emissions air travel, CAG will purchase carbon offsets for all business travel by CAG staff going forward.”
KUALA LUMPUR, 17 November 2023: AirAsia remains committed to connecting India to the world as the airline continues its robust presence in the Indian aviation landscape, linking millions of Indian travellers to an extensive network of 130 destinations across Asia and the Asia Pacific.
AirAsia now operates a strong network servicing 10 international routes directly from India to Malaysia and Thailand with 104 flights weekly from short-haul airlines AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK) and AirAsia Thailand (flight code FD).
Photo credit: AirAsia
Medium haul affiliate airline AirAsia X Malaysia (flight code D7) also provides two direct routes from New Delhi and Amritsar to Kuala Lumpur with eight flights weekly. The continued growth in AirAsia services to India ensures a comprehensive and seamless travel experience for AirAsia’s guests across India to the widest low-cost network in Asia.
Leveraging its Fly-Thru connectivity, where AirAsia passengers can fly from India to Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and other destinations with one seamless booking, the airline is transforming the way its guests experience international travel, making overseas exploration more accessible and affordable.
AirAsia Aviation Group CEO Bo Lingam commented: “India has always been a key market for AirAsia and following recent changes to our operations in the country, we remain committed to serving the market. We have flown a remarkable 1.6 million guests from India between January and November this year, showcasing the enduring strength of our great value fares and connectivity.
“As we continue to strengthen our presence in India, we are excited to announce our expansion plans, including the launch of a new route to Thiruvananthapuram soon. We are dedicated to making international travel from India not only accessible but also affordable for everyone.”
AirAsia head of regional commercial (India), Manoj Dharmani, added: “AirAsia remains deeply committed to India, and while we no longer operate domestic flights, our guests should rest assured that India remains at the core of our operations. Over the years, we have witnessed tremendous growth, connecting countless cities and regions in India to the world, and we are proud to share that AirAsia now serves 11 destinations in India. Our expansion in India has resulted in 104 weekly flights, making us a vital and reliable link between India and the globe. We look forward to serving the Indian market with the commitment to further enhancing connectivity and accessibility for our guests across the country.”
Discover the world with AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur to Kolkata, Tiruchirappalli, Kochi, Hyderabad and more from just MYR309, all in one way for the travel period until 30 September 2024. Promotional fares are available for booking on the website and AirAsia Superapp until 26 November 2023.
KUALA LUMPUR, 17 November 2023: The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) confirmed earlier this week Vietnam Airlines, the national airline of Vietnam, has joined the aviation association with immediate effect.
As a member of the AAPA, Vietnam Airlines will participate in the Association’s meetings and joint activities. Through this, the airline can stay updated and exchange information about the trends in the aviation industry while also receiving in-depth insights, forecasts, and advice from top experts in the region and the world.
Photo credit: Vietnam Airlines
AAPA director general Subhas Menon said: “It is an honour for AAPA to welcome Vietnam Airlines into our ranks. Vietnam Airlines has been a renowned international carrier for years, playing a crucial role in developing Vietnam’s economy and its aviation industry. The airline will add significant weight to AAPA as the voice of airlines in the Asia Pacific region.”
Vietnam Airlines CEO Le Hong Ha added: “Through our membership in AAPA, Vietnam Airlines will enhance its operational efficiency within the Asia-Pacific region and elevate Vietnam national airline’s global reputation. Vietnam Airlines will also have the opportunity to contribute valuable viewpoints and perspectives from the airline and the broader Vietnamese aviation industry on important regional issues. Moreover, AAPA membership will facilitate collaboration between Vietnam Airlines and leading Asian airlines, delivering even more exceptional products and services to passengers worldwide.”
Vietnam Airlines
Established on 27 May 1995, Vietnam Airlines is the national airline of Vietnam and a key player in Vietnam’s aviation and regional transportation. Vietnam Airlines offers air transportation services on nearly 100 domestic and international routes. With a modern fleet of over 100 aircraft, Vietnam Airlines is the first airline in the Asia-Pacific region to operate both the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, the next-generation aircraft.
BANGKOK, 17 November 2023: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) confirms the Macao Government Tourism Office has won the bid to host the PATA Annual Summit 2024.
The 2024 Summit will be supported by SJM Resorts and held from 15 to 17 May 2024 at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macao.
Photo credit: PATA.
The programme, which comprises plenary sessions, breakout sessions, the PATA Executive Board and full board meetings, and the Annual General Meeting, will provide a platform for PATA’s public and private sector members, PATA Chapters and PATA Youth worldwide to discuss the challenges, issues and opportunities facing the industry as it looks towards the responsible and sustainable growth, value, and quality of tourism in the region.
“All of us at PATA are excited to be returning to Macau for the PATA Annual Summit 2024 and receive first-hand updates about the significant developments in the destination since having previously organised successful PATA Travel Marts in 2010 and 2017, as well as the PATA Annual Conference in 2005,” said PATA chair Peter Semone. “The Macao Government Tourism Office has been a strong partner of PATA since 1958 and our major sponsor for the PATA Gold Awards for the past 28 consecutive years. Next year’s event provides Macao with the perfect opportunity to showcase their destination and the Greater Bay Area to all delegates.”
Macao Government Tourism Office director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes commented: “It is an honour for Macao to host the PATA Annual Summit 2024. PATA holds a special place in the heart of our tourism industry, and we are happy to be once again granted the opportunity to welcome delegates from near and far to meet in our city. Especially as this will be the first PATA event we host after the pandemic, allowing us to showcase to participants the current dynamic change in our destination towards more diversification for a memorable meeting in Macao.”
SINGAPORE, 16 November 2023: Carnival Cruise Line opened new 2025-26 cruises from its Australian homeports of Sydney and Brisbane earlier this week.
The new cruise options include sailings to Fiji and New Zealand on Carnival Splendor, as well as sailings to Fiji and Papua New Guinea on Carnival Luminosa, along with several Great Barrier Reef cruises on both ships.
Cruises from Sydney on Carnival Splendor
From Sydney, Carnival Splendor will offer itineraries, with cruise options spanning from three to 12 days to destinations across Australia – including the Great Barrier Reef, Moreton Island, Tasmania and a Melbourne Cup cruise, as well as international destinations such as Fiji, South Pacific islands and New Zealand.
Cruises from Brisbane on Carnival Luminosa
From Brisbane, Carnival Luminosa will sail to popular destinations like Airlie Beach and the Great Barrier Reef, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. Cruise durations are from three to 11 days.
DUBAI, 16 November 2023: Emirates signed off on a significant order for 95 additional wide-body aircraft during this week’s Dubai Airshow, taking its total order book to 295 aircraft.
Already the world’s biggest operator of wide-body passenger aircraft, Emirates has committed to additional Boeing 777-9s, 777-8s, and 787s, worth USD52 billion, to power its growth plans, maintain a modern, efficient fleet, and deliver the best flying experience to its customers.
In the presence of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and Deputy Ruler of Dubai and HH Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council; the orders were signed by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group; with Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes; and Larry Culp, Chairman and CEO for GE, and CEO of GE Aerospace.
HH Sheikh Ahmed said: “From day one, Emirates’ business model has been to operate modern and efficient wide-body aircraft capable of carrying large numbers of travellers comfortably and safely over long distances to and via Dubai. Today’s aircraft orders reflect that strategy.
“These additional aircraft will enable Emirates to connect even more cities, supporting the Dubai economic agenda D33 set out by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to add 400 cities to Dubai’s foreign trade map over the next decade. By the early 2030s, we expect the Emirates fleet to be around 350-strong, connecting Dubai to even more cities worldwide.”
Emirates’ Boeing order
Emirates, already the world’s largest operator of Boeing 777 aircraft, has signed firm orders for 55 additional 777-9s and 35 777-8s. This takes the airline’s 777-X order book to 205 units.
Emirates also confirmed an order of 202 GE9X engines to power the additional 777X aircraft ordered today, taking its total GE9X engine order to 460 units.
From its previous order of 115 units, the first 777-9 is expected to join Emirates’ fleet in 2025. Today’s additional orders mean Emirates will induct new 777-9s to its fleet until 2035.
With this latest order, Emirates is also set to be one of the launch customers of the 777-8 passenger variant, with first deliveries expected in 2030.
HH Sheikh Ahmed said: “Emirates is the biggest operator of Boeing 777 aircraft, and today’s order cements that position. We’ve been closely involved in the 777 programmes since its start-up until this latest generation of 777X aircraft. The 777 has been central to Emirates’ fleet and network strategy of connecting cities on all continents non-stop to Dubai. We are pleased to extend our relationship with Boeing and look forward to the first 777-9 joining our fleet in 2025.”
The 777 remains the backbone of Emirates’ operations, capable of missions of up to 18 hours that enable the airline to connect Dubai non-stop to cities on six continents. The new 777-9s and 777-8s will replace Emirates’ retiring 777 aircraft and provision for the airline’s future growth plans.
Emirates has also updated its previous order of 30 Boeing 787-9s, increasing its commitment to 35 Dreamliners comprising 15 Boeing 787-10s and 20 Boeing 787-8s. For bookings and more information on the airline, visit www.emirates.com.
