Boeing: Air travel outpaces economic growth

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June 19, 2023

LE BOURGET, France, 19 June 2023: With a resurgence in international traffic and domestic air travel back to pre-pandemic levels, Boeing projects global demand at 42,595 new commercial jets by 2042 worth an estimated USD8 trillion.

Boeing released its 2023 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO), the company’s forecast of 20-year demand for commercial aircraft and services, on the eve of the Paris Air Show from 19 to 25 June.

The new CMO comes three years after the pandemic grounded most global fleets.

Key takeaways

Passenger traffic continues to outpace global economic growth of 2.6%.
The global fleet nearly doubles to 48,600 jets, expanding by 3.5% annually.
Airlines are replacing about half of the global fleet with new, more fuel-efficient models.

“The aviation industry has demonstrated resilience and adaptability after unprecedented disruption, with airlines responding to challenges, simplifying their fleets, improving efficiency and capitalising on resurgent demand,” said Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen. “Looking to the future of air travel, our 2023 CMO reflects a further evolution of passenger traffic tied to the global growth of the middle class, investments in sustainability, continued growth for low-cost carriers and air cargo demand to serve evolving supply chains and express cargo delivery.”

Regional demand and key trends

Asia-Pacific markets represent more than 40% of global demand, with half of that total in China.

South Asia’s fleet will expand more than 7% annually, the world’s fastest rate, with India accounting for more than 90% of the region’s passenger traffic.

North America and Europe will account for about 20% of global demand.

Low-cost carriers will operate more than 40% of the single-aisle fleet in 2042, up from 10% 20 years ago.

After omitting demand for Russia and Central Asia in last year’s CMO due to uncertainty in the region, this year’s forecast covers Russia and Central Asia in the Eurasia region, which comprises about 3% of the global fleet by 2042.

Commercial Services forecasts a total served market worth USD3.8 trillion, including digital solutions that increase efficiency and reduce cost; robust demand for parts and supply chain solutions; growing maintenance and modification options; and effective training to enhance safety and support the pilot and technician pipeline.

Also, in the 20-year forecast period, Boeing anticipates demand for these models:

New single-aisle aircraft will account for more than 75% of all new deliveries, up slightly from the 2022 outlook and totalling more than 32,000 aircraft.

New widebody jets will be nearly 20% of deliveries, with more than 7,400 aircraft enabling airlines to open new markets and serve existing routes more efficiently.

(Source: Boeing)

Lifestyle hotels gaining traction

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 19, 2023

SINGAPORE, 19 June 2023: Growing demand for one of the most successful traveller offerings in recent years – lifestyle hotels – has fuelled the accommodation comeback as global occupancy rates in Q1-2023 neared pre-Covid levels, according to FCM Consulting’s latest Global Trends Report.

Insights showed global hotel occupancy for the first quarter of the year was at 60.46%, only four percentage points below the levels of 2019.

“Corporate travellers looking to experience something unique are booking lifestyle hotels with different offerings such as lobbies that encourage interaction, green initiatives, slick technology, and well-being choices.

Newer hotel offerings such as The Clan Hotel Singapore and the upcoming The Singapore Edition are challenging the legacy style hotels,” said FCM Asia managing director Bertrand Saillet.

Q1-2023 average room rates saw all six regions surpass data for Q4-2022 by 4 to 26%, with Asia up 26%, the Middle East rising by 22%, Europe up 19%, Latin America increasing by 12%, Australia/New Zealand up 12%, and North America rising 4%.

“As China opened borders, the rebound across Asia was significant, with an increase of 26%. Room rates in Tokyo averaged USD294, Singapore at USD269, Seoul USD239 and Hong Kong at USD224, making Tokyo the most expensive city to stay in Asia,” said Saillet.

“This demand indicates that business travellers are willing to shop differently based on price and the value of service offering, creating significant supplier changes in corporate travel programs worldwide,” added Saillet.

The latest FCM Consulting quarterly report draws on global data sourced from FCM and Flight Centre Travel Group corporate booking data for travel from January to March 2023 (Q1-2023). The report uses Cirium aviation schedule data as of 24 April 2023. Airfare pricing variations exclude all taxes.

The hotel average room rate (ARR) quoted is the average booked rate using FCM and Flight Centre Travel Group corporate booking data. Variations in rates booked reflect seasonality, supply and demand, booking lead times and variations in exchange rates.

Unless otherwise stated, all fares and rates are reported in US dollars. STR hotel data and content quoted as of 26 April 2023.

For the full report, see FCM Consulting’s latest Global Trends Report.

AirAsia X adds flights to Amritsar

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 19, 2023

SEPANG, 19 June 2023: AirAsia X continues to expand its medium-haul network by resuming direct services from Kuala Lumpur to Amritsar in northern India.

From 3 September 2023, the four times weekly services will provide access to Amritsar, a destination with strong potential in terms of religious significance, tourism attractions, commercial opportunities, and trade prospects.

As the second destination to India after New Delhi, this route will deliver an additional annual capacity of 157,263 seats between Kuala Lumpur and Amritsar for AAX.

AirAsia X chief executive officer Benyamin Ismail said: “We are pleased to restart our direct services to Amritsar, home to the world-famous Golden Temple. Amritsar holds a monumental cultural and religious significance, and this route not only provides the opportunity for our guests in the region to visit the holy city affordably but also for the people in Amritsar to visit amazing holiday destinations with the best value fares, including Perth, Melbourne, Bali, Bangkok and more with our Fly-Thru service.

“The restart of this route is also part of our efforts to strengthen AAX’s position in South Asia, complementing our robust network in North Asia. We are optimistic that this route relaunch will enhance our medium-haul destination offering with affordable fares and contribute to the overall business growth.”

To celebrate the route recommencement, AAX offers promotional all-in*fare from MYR299* one-way for the economy seat and MYR999* one-way for Premium Flatbed. In addition, guests travelling to/from Amritsar will also enjoy 50% off check-in baggage when they book from today until 2 July 2023 for the travel period from 3 September 2023 to 30 March 2024.

Amritsar is one of Punjab’s top destinations in northwestern India, which but underserved by airlines from the Asia Pacific region. The city is also home to Sikh’s most sacred shrine, the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), and has plenty of historical monuments, including Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border and Gobindgarh Fort.

Flight schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Amritsar (ATQ):

*The all-in fare is for one-way travel only, including airport tax, MAVCOM fee, fuel surcharge and other applicable fees. Terms and conditions apply.

Korean Air on a mission in North Thailand

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 16, 2023

SEOUL, 16 June 2023: Korean Air’s volunteer team visited Chiang Dao in far north Thailand from 8 to 13 June to conduct volunteer activities, including road paving projects and introducing Korean traditional culture to residents.

Chiang Dao is a hill-country district located 2,100 metres above sea level in Thailand’s Chiang Mai province. Villages in the region lack basic infrastructure such as electricity, water, medical services and educational facilities for children.

During their visit, Korean Air’s volunteers paved lanes in the local village using concrete to help prevent accidents caused by poor road conditions. They also painted the exterior walls of old buildings. They introduced Korean culture through traditional music and dance performances and demonstrated how to make and share popular Korean food such as ‘tteokbokki’, a spicy rice cake.

With the pandemic in retreat, Korean Air is back to actively engaging in community service activities. Last week, the airline also resumed its annual rural volunteer activities in the village Myeongdong-ri, Gangwon Province, where it has been visiting twice annually since 2004. Employees visited the village to provide medical assistance and help with agricultural work.

Sabah hosts Ghost Net Hunters

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 16, 2023

KOTA KINABALU, 16 June 2023: The highly anticipated Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) Sabah Ocean Partnership Summit, 18 to 20 August, is all set to undertake an ambitious endeavour highlighting the need to protect the marine environment worldwide.

One of the event’s highlights will be the groundbreaking attempt to set a new world record for the longest ghost net cleanup, aptly named “Ghost Net Hunters – 23 Hours” in waters off the coast of Sabah.

ADEX Sabah will convene from 18 to 20 August at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), with the ghost net cleanup to be held on 20 August.

This initiative falls under the ADEX Sabah corporate social responsibility programme, aiming to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and conserve Sabah’s marine environment. It will feature two ADEX ambassadors, Hong Kong actress Hidy Yu, and Guinness World Record Swimmer Ben Lecomte.

On Wednesday, 14 June, Sabah Tourism Board, alongside the ADEX Sabah team and government agencies, discussed preparations and logistics assistance for the event.

Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment cum Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai commended ADEX Sabah’s initiative in recognising the gravity of ghost net issues.

“The event will raise awareness about the threats posed by ghost nets and inspire greater involvement in initiatives that protect Sabah’s natural resources.

“Through this remarkable feat, we seek to foster a sense of responsibility and empower communities to actively participate in preserving the pristine beauty of Sabah’s marine environment for generations to come,” he said.

Present were SICC chief executive officer Datuk Rosmawait Lasuki, Sabah Parks deputy director Rimi Repin, ADEX Sabah project director Theresa Tham, and Royal Navy and Marine Department representatives.

Ghost nets, abandoned or lost fishing nets, severely threaten marine life, entangling and endangering numerous species. The “Ghost Net Hunters – 23 Hours” initiative will bring together a dedicated team of divers who will strive to remove as many ghost nets as possible within a continuous 23-hour period, showcasing their commitment to preserving the marine environment.

Joniston also called upon all local dive operators to unite and actively participate in ADEX Sabah, emphasising the significant benefits it can bring.

“I see ADEX Sabah as a marketing platform and an opportunity to gain valuable insights into the dive industry’s latest trends, technologies, and best practices.

“Local participants can attend seminars, workshops, and presentations by industry experts, which can help them stay updated with the latest developments and improve their services.

“They can learn from successful dive operators and adopt innovative strategies to enhance the overall dive experience in Sabah,” he remarked.

Joniston underscored the importance of unity and collaboration among local dive operators to foster a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem in Sabah.

“By supporting ADEX collectively, they can showcase the strength and diversity of Sabah’s dive industry. Their participation will contribute not only to the exhibition’s success but also to future collaborations, knowledge sharing, and sustainable practices benefiting the entire dive community in Sabah,” he stated.

ADEX Sabah will also feature international speakers, diving industry experts, and conservationists. It will encompass a range of activities and topics, including a mermaid festival, free diving, sustainable marine tourism, and the blue ocean economy to attract the participation of diving enthusiasts, universities, and schoolchildren.

Meanwhile, ADEX Sabah project director Theresa Tham said the event aimed to create awareness to protect and conserve Sabah as a premium dive destination.

“We hope to contact all dive professionals, businesses, and enthusiasts to come together and experience this international dive expo. Various topics of interest will be covered that complement, enhance, and inspire steps forward in the tourism and diving industry, further improving the industry. “We can learn from each other through such an event as it will connect us to all relevant government agencies, dive operators, and entrepreneurs to unite to work on the conservation of the environment,” she said.

Visit: www.sabahtourism.com

(Source: Sabah Tourism Board)

Emirates rolls out Great Singapore Sale

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 16, 2023

SINGAPORE, 16 June 2023: Emirates’ Great Singapore Sale deals are up for grabs allowing Singapore residents to explore their favourite summer festivals in Europe and the US.

For a limited time only, they can book all-inclusive Economy Class fares from SGD699, Premium Economy fares from SGD1,729, Business Class fares from SGD3,009, and First Class fares from SGD10,159 when they fly to Dubai, London, Paris, Madrid, New York, and more with Emirates.

These special fares are available for bookings made by 2 July 2023 for travel until 30 November 2023.

Destinations	Economy Class Fares From (SGD)	Premium Economy Class Fares From (SGD)	Business Class Fares From (SGD)	First Class Fares From (SGD)
Dubai	699	1,729	3,009	10,159
London	1,159	2,619	4,729	12,329
Paris	1,269	2,539	4,429	12,129
Amsterdam	1,299	2,579	5,039	16,219
Madrid	1,279	2,549	5,099	19,749
Rome	1,119	2,389	4,579	18,579
Milan	1,249	2,519	4,799	12,599
Zurich	1,199	2,479	4,819	14,399
Frankfurt	1,219	2,489	4,579	15,099
New York	1,809	3,639	6,289	16,929

With Emirates’ GSS deals and its extensive global network, travellers can enjoy greater flexibility in planning their latest escapades and relish exciting events held across the globe. Some of the highly anticipated festivals in Europe and America to come include:

Oktoberfest, Munich (28 September to 30 October):

Germany’s iconic folk festival, the annual Oktoberfest is returning with its classic beer tents, oompah bands, and a delicious spread of sausages, pretzels, and pork knuckles. It was first held in 1810 to mark a royal wedding, and it has now evolved into the world’s biggest beer festival, attracting six million visitors each year. Visitors are invited to dress in traditional Bavarian attire or Tracht and partake in the food, fun, and music on Theresienwiese open ground.

Mad Cool Festival, Madrid (6 July to 8 July):

Major music festival Mad Cool has made a name for itself by bringing together the finest line-up of rock, indie, and alternative artists for an unforgettable summer in Madrid. This year is no exception, with big names such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lizzo, Robbie Williams, Sam Smith, Machine Gun Kelly, Lil Nas X, The Black Keys, and more headlining the three-day-long event.

Frieze London (11 October to 15 October):

Art lovers can also rejoice, for Frieze London will once again transform Regent’s Park into a showcase of some of the world’s best contemporary art and living artists. Visitors can look forward to many programmes — from films, talks, and music shows to installations and performance art pieces. Travellers on a budget can head towards the Frieze Sculpture, where the displays of major outdoor works are free for all to view. The fair will certainly be a feast for the eyes of art connoisseurs and those simply looking to bask in the culture and vibes of the city alike.

Forest Hills Stadium Centennial concert series, New York (20 May to 30 September):

Forest Hills Stadium is celebrating its 100^th anniversary with a massive summer concert series featuring its most diverse set of performances thus far. This season, visitors will have an eclectic mix of comedy and music shows to pick from, each bound to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Notable acts include the riotous Kevin Hart in June, English sweetheart Louis Tomlinson in July, pop-punk icons Fall Out Boy in August, and the viral Artic Monkeys in September. With all these exciting events lined up, there will be no shortage of fun.

Travel in luxurious comfort with Emirates Premium Economy

Great Singapore Sale, travellers can experience the elevated onboard experience that Emirates Premium Economy offers. Newly launched in Singapore on 1 June, Emirates Premium Economy is designed to ensure maximum comfort, with a generous seat pitch and width and customised features that offer function and convenience, like in-seat charging points and a side cocktail table. There are also thoughtfully curated in-flight amenities, an inventive menu, and enticing beverage options, including premium wines and a sparkling Chandon wine exclusive to Emirates Premium Economy customers.

Tickets can be purchased on emirates.com, the Emirates App, at Emirates sales offices, and via online and offline travel agents. Travellers must also check the Emirates website for the latest travel requirements.

Emirates Skywards

Emirates Skywards has kicked off the summer season with the exclusive bonus Skywards Miles on offer. Explore the world this summer and rack up thousands of Miles as you fly, stay, and drive in more than 140 destinations across Emirates’ extensive network.

Starting from 1 June, members can earn up to; 15,000 Miles per night at more than 400,000 hotels worldwide with Emirates Skywards Hotels; triple Skywards Miles at IHG® Hotels & Resorts; Up to 10,000 bonus Miles on Avis car rentals, and up to 8,000 bonus Miles on Hertz car rentals.

For more information on the offers available, visit emirates.com

SQ makes senior management changes

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 16, 2023

SINGAPORE, 16 June 2023: Singapore Airlines announced several senior management appointments earlier this week, effective 10 September 2023.

Tan Kai Ping, executive vice president of finance and strategy and chief financial officer, takes on the role of executive vice president of operations and chief operations officer. He will be responsible for SIA’s Cabin Crew, Customer Services and Operations, Engineering, and Flight Operations divisions.

JoAnn Tan, senior vice president of marketing planning, will be appointed senior vice president of finance and chief financial officer.

Dai Hao Yu, divisional vice president of digital, will be promoted to acting senior vice president of marketing planning.

Mak Swee Wah, executive vice president of operations and chief operations officer, will retire on 9 September 2023 after 40 years with Singapore Airlines.

Singapore Airlines chief executive officer Goh Choon Phong said: “These new appointments reflect the strength of SIA’s management bench and are a testament to our executives’ ability to undertake a wide range of senior-level responsibilities. Having the right talent in place will ensure that the SIA Group is ready to take on future challenges and seize the opportunities that come our way.”

Resorts World Cruises celebrates anniversary

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 16, 2023

SINGAPORE, 16 June 2023: Resorts World Cruises celebrates its first anniversary this month with onboard festivities and promotions.

During most of 2022, it relied on a single ship Genting Dream while adding a second ship, Resorts World One, earlier this year, enabling the company to welcome over 1.3 million cruising guests during its first full year of operations.

After months laid up in Asia due to the collapse of its owner Genting Hong Kong, Genting Dream was chartered to Resorts World Cruises in May 2022. Resort World Cruises (RWC) rose from the financial ashes of Genting Hong Kong, which had operated Star Cruises and subsequently Dream Cruises in Southeast Asia since the early 1990s. RWC has two cruise ships sailing in Asia and homeporting in Singapore, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Headquartered in Singapore, Resorts World Cruises has increased its presence across Asia with sailings featuring ports of call Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Taipei, Jakarta, Delhi NCR, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Manila, Seoul, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City.

The first-anniversary celebration starts with a special cruise fare promotion for selected cruises. Twin-sharing guests with bookings made until 31 July 2023 for the Genting Dream and Resorts World One gain a $1# cruise for the second person booked (based on applicable designated currencies).

Abu Dhabi inks accord with UNICEO

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 16, 2023

ABU DHABI UAE, 16 June 2023: Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has announced a strategic partnership with non-profit association United Networks of International Corporate Event Organisers.

The partnership will build awareness of Abu Dhabi as a destination of choice for meetings and incentives through enhanced networking opportunities with UNICEO’s key international decision-makers and through providing business support and destination awareness opportunities for Abu Dhabi to UNICEO’s community of corporate events decision-makers.

Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau director Mubarak Al Shamisi said: “We are delighted to partner with United Networks of International Corporate Event Organisers to enhance our Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions (MICE) offer and continue to increase awareness of Abu Dhabi as the gateway to the MENA region among its 2,500 members.

“This strategic partnership will benefit global corporations convening events in Abu Dhabi and help them leverage the diverse offerings of the UAE capital. Renowned for its world-leading infrastructure, iconic hotels, state-of-the-art event venues and an unrivalled leisure portfolio of rich culture, natural beauty, global entertainment and thrilling attractions, Abu Dhabi is the ideal destination to host business events. ”

With 2,500 members across 35 countries, UNICEO offers its associates the opportunity to make the most of its collective intelligence and adapt to a constantly changing business environment within a global network.

Air Canada to launch Vancouver to Singapore service

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TTR WEEKLY

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June 16, 2023

SINGAPORE, 16 June 2023: Air Canada will expand its international network by adding nonstop flights between its trans-Pacific hub at Vancouver International Airport and Singapore’s Changi International Airport.

The new route will operate four times weekly beginning 3 April 2024* served by Air Canada’s flagship Dreamliner fleet.

Booking and sales opened Wednesday on the website www.aircanada.com, via the Air Canada App, Air Canada’s Contact Centres and travel agents.

“Air Canada continues to adapt its international network strategy in response to evolving global trends and is broadening its presence in the Indo-Pacific region to capitalise on growing business links and Canada’s changing demographics,” said Air Canada executive vice president, revenue and network planning Mark Galardo.

“We are committed to growing YVR as a premier trans-Pacific hub, and Singapore is a top global financial centre, a multicultural destination that offers an abundance of tourism and food experiences, as well as an important gateway to beyond destinations in Southeast Asia, Southern India and Western Australia.”

A Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with 298 seats will serve the route featuring a three-class cabin (Signature Class with 30 lie-flat seats, Premium Economy with 21 seats and Economy Class with 247 seats). The airline currently operates a fleet of 38 Dreamliners, 30 of which are the 787-9 version and the remaining eight 787-8 models. A promotional fare starting at US1447 one way is flagged in economy class.

The flight schedule has been built to provide convenient connections to and from destinations across North America via Air Canada’s hub in Vancouver to Singapore. Flights from destinations across Southeast Asia, South India and Western Australia served by Star Alliance and codeshare partner Singapore Airlines will connect with the Air Canada flight departing from the Singapore hub to Vancouver.

“This direct connection serves as a vital gateway, strengthening cultural ties while providing new bridges for business, tourism, and invaluable friendships,” said Singapore Tourism Board senior vice president Americas Rachel Loh.

Boeing: Air travel outpaces economic growth

Lifestyle hotels gaining traction

AirAsia X adds flights to Amritsar

Korean Air on a mission in North Thailand

Sabah hosts Ghost Net Hunters

Emirates rolls out Great Singapore Sale

SQ makes senior management changes

Resorts World Cruises celebrates anniversary

Abu Dhabi inks accord with UNICEO

Air Canada to launch Vancouver to Singapore service

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