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HKIA wins multiple awards

By
Newsdesk
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HONG KONG, 3 April 2026: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has recently garnered awards for its outstanding performance in areas including security processing, aviation infrastructure, passenger services, and security processing.

HKIA stood out among airports worldwide to win “Best Airport in the World” at the Global Travel Awards 2026.

The nomination list comprised leading airports worldwide. The award is based on votes cast by millions of travellers globally, recognising organisations that demonstrate excellence in aviation infrastructure and passenger experience.

“Best Airport in the World” at the Global Travel Awards 2026.

In addition, HKIA has been named by Skytrax as the winner of “World’s Best Airport Security Processing” and “World’s Best Airport Washrooms” at the 2026 World Airport Awards, recognising its steadfast dedication to enhancing passenger experience, ensuring aviation safety and delivering service excellence.

These awards underscore HKIA’s commitment to maintaining rigorous security standards while actively leveraging innovative technologies to deliver an efficient and seamless passenger experience. HKIA has fully automated security gates, immigration channels and boarding gates through facial recognition, and is currently undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of security screening channels across all areas, replacing traditional X-ray channels with CT-driven screening. The forthcoming Terminal 2 will also incorporate this proven efficiency enhancement, alongside other passenger-facility upgrades.

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), Chief Executive Officer Vivian Cheung, remarked: “We are truly honoured to receive the best airport awards across such a wide range of areas, which reflect the dedication and collective efforts of the entire Hong Kong International Airport community. We continue to expand our air network for both passenger and cargo traffic, with a view to reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as the hub of Asia. Looking ahead, the SKYTOPIA development will transform HKIA into an Airport City, creating a dynamic destination that inspires travel, drives connectivity and welcomes the world to Hong Kong.”

(Source: AAHK)

PHAB auction funds educational grants

By
TTR WEEKLY
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PHUKET, 3 April 2026: Phuket Hotels Association, the non-profit organisation of hoteliers focused on creating a sustainable future for Phuket, brings back its “Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale” with prizes, including luxury hotel stays and outstanding travel experiences all around the globe.

The Phuket Hotels Association Benefit (PHAB) annual online auction is a charitable initiative that donates all proceeds to the association’s education programme, which funds hospitality scholarships and internships for young people in Phuket. 

MnK Niseko and Dusit Thani Maldives are among the key supporters of this year’s edition of the initiative.

Talent development is a key pillar of the Phuket Hotels Association, which collaborates closely with local colleges, universities, and hotels to empower the next generation of Thai hospitality professionals.

To date, PHAB campaigns have raised funds to support 125 local students through professional development opportunities, including three- and four-year scholarships. Now in its eighth year, PHAB continues to rely on the generosity of its supporters to create life-changing opportunities for Phuket’s talented youth. Phuket Rajabhat University students are supported by the Phuket Hotels Association’s educational programme.

This year’s Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale gives members of the public the chance to bid for multi-night stays at hotels and resorts in dream destinations worldwide, such as the Maldives, Phuket, Bali, Bangkok, Japan, Samui Island and Hong Kong. With prizes donated by renowned brands, such as Rosewood, Six Senses, COMO and InterContinental, the auction promises once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

In addition to the hotel stays, other prizes include dining and spa therapies, as well as educational online certificate courses. 

For the full list of prizes and to take part, visit PHAB 2026.   

“PHAB is one of the most meaningful initiatives we run each year, because it directly changes lives. To date, we have funded 125 full scholarships for local students, giving them the chance to complete three- and four-year hospitality degrees and build rewarding careers, said Phuket Hotels Association President Bjorn Courage. “This year’s Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale offers incredible experiences around the world, and every bid helps open a door for a young person in Phuket. It’s a chance to travel, give back, and be part of something truly life-changing.” 

The Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale runs from now until 1400 (Bangkok time) on 27 May 2026. Click here to place bids.

Talent development is one of the key pillars of the Phuket Hotels Association, which works hand-in-hand with local educational institutions and hotels to empower the next generation of Thai hospitality professionals.

To learn more about the Phuket Hotels Association, visit www.phukethotelsassociation.com

(Source: PHA)

Qatar Airways rebuilds flight schedules

By
Newsdesk
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DOHA, 3 April 2026: Qatar Airways has published its latest revised schedule, reflecting the gradual increase in flights to and from Doha, serving more than 120 destinations by mid-May 2026, across the airline’s global network.

All flights to and from Doha continue to operate through dedicated flight corridors established in close coordination with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.

Photo credit: Qatar Airways.

Flight schedules are subject to change or cancellation due to operational, regulatory, safety, or other circumstances beyond the airline’s control. 

To view the schedule, click here.

Passengers who currently hold a confirmed booking on a flight to the destinations listed in the new schedule will be contacted with new flight information. 

The airline advises passengers to check the “Flight Status” tool in the Qatar Airways app or on the website before heading to Hamad International Airport, as schedules are still subject to sudden changes. 

Qatar Airways advises that it is now embarking on a significant network restoration following the severe operational disruptions in March. While many scheduled flights are back in the air, the situation remains fluid.

Flights successfully departed this week from Doha to major hubs including London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Bangkok (BKK), and Shanghai (PVG).

Airspace corridors

All current operations are conducted through “dedicated flight corridors” established in coordination with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority to safely navigate ongoing regional constraints.

The airline has filed plans to resume or increase frequencies to several key destinations this month.

Flights resuming early April

Service to Seoul (ICN), Phuket/Penang (HKT/PEN), and Clark (CRK) is scheduled to restart the first week of April.

From 16 April 16, the airline intends to resume flights to Los Angeles (LAX), Seattle (SEA), Geneva (GVA), and Stockholm (ARN).

Ongoing suspensions

Several routes from Doha remain suspended for the remainder of April, including Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Bahrain (BAH), and Beirut (BEY).

Booking flexibility

For travellers affected by the recent disruptions (specifically those with bookings through 15 June 2026), Qatar Airways is offering complimentary date changes (within 14 days of the original date) or full refunds for unused ticket values.

Aircraft changes

Airbus A380 operations have been removed from the schedule for the first half of April, with most long-haul routes currently being serviced by Boeing 777-300ER or Airbus A350 aircraft.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

CX flies Hong Kong-Seattle route

By
Newsdesk
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HONG KONG, 3 April 2026: Cathay Pacific launched its non-stop passenger flights between Hong Kong and Seattle on Monday, providing customers with the only direct connection between the airline’s home city and Washington State’s cultural and tech capital. 

Operating five times per week, the new service extends the airline’s passenger network in North America to nine destinations.

Photo credit: Cathay Pacific.

As part of Cathay’s 80th-anniversary celebrations, the inaugural Hong Kong-Seattle flight was operated by the airline’s special-edition Airbus A350 aircraft, featuring its iconic “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery, honouring eight decades of moving its home city, people and customers forward since 1946.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “As we celebrate ‘80 Years Together’ and connect Hong Kong with the world, the launch of our Seattle service highlights the deepening ties between two global centres of innovation, culture, and commerce. 

“Through the Cathay Group’s investment of well over HKD100 billion into our fleet, cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, we are committed to offering customers a seamless and elevated travel experience, whether they are travelling to Hong Kong or connecting to onward destinations through our global network covering more than 100 destinations worldwide. This new service not only enhances connectivity for business and leisure travellers, but also reinforces our role in supporting Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub.”

Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong-Seattle service uses an Airbus A350-900 aircraft, configured with business class, premium economy, and economy cabins. Flight schedules are as follows:

30 March – 31 May 2026; 16 September – 24 October 2026

This summer, Cathay Pacific is operating close to 120 return flights per week to nine passenger destinations across North America, including Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver.

(Source: Cathay Pacific)

Sarawak reaches out to Singaporean travellers

By
Your Stories
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KUCHING, 2 April 2026: As regional travel within ASEAN continues to gain momentum, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) participated in the NATAS Travel Fair from 27 to 29 March at the  Singapore EXPO, reinforcing Sarawak’s presence in one of its key ASEAN markets.

STB reported that the event strengthened engagement with Singaporean outbound travellers, presenting Sarawak’s diverse travel experiences and connecting directly with travel partners to offer curated holiday packages to the destination. 

STB was joined by co-exhibitors EU Holidays Pte Ltd, Meidi Travel Solutions Pte Ltd, and Azza Travel & Tours Pte Ltd, providing travellers with convenient access to Sarawak travel packages and on-site travel-planning support during the fair.

Singapore remains one of Sarawak’s key regional markets. In 2025, Sarawak recorded 64,295 visitor arrivals from Singapore, marking a 7.53% year-on-year increase and the highest Singapore arrivals recorded to date. 

Participation in the NATAS Travel Fair 2026 should support marketing efforts to reach the 2026 target of 69,000 visitor arrivals from Singapore.

“Singapore has consistently demonstrated a strong interest in Sarawak, and the steady growth in arrivals reflects the appeal of our diverse offerings, from culture and heritage to food, nature and adventure. 

Our presence at the NATAS Travel Fair allowed us to showcase the breadth of experiences across Southern, Central and Northern Sarawak. NATAS Travel Fair provides a valuable platform

for us to engage directly with consumers at the point where travel decisions are being made,” said Sarawak Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. 

Three gateways

Singapore enjoys direct air connectivity to Sarawak’s three main gateways — Kuching, Sibu and Miri — enabling convenient access to the state’s Southern, Central and Northern regions, each offering distinct travel experiences. Direct services operated by AirAsia and Scoot connect Singapore to Sarawak’s key entry points, supporting seamless travel across the destination and enhancing access for visitors from the Singapore market.

South Sarawak

Southern Sarawak, via Kuching, blends heritage, culture and nature. The region is home to the Sarawak Delta Geopark. This landscape brings together coastal ecosystems, rainforest habitats and cultural sites, including Bako National Park, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and the Sarawak Cultural Village, alongside major cultural institutions such as the Borneo Cultures Museum. Kuching also offers a vibrant food scene recognised under its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, with iconic dishes such as Laksa Sarawak, Kolo Mee and an abundance of fresh seafood. The city is also home to signature events, including the 2026 Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF).

Central Sarawak

Central Sarawak, accessible via Sibu and extending to areas such as Mukah and Sarikei, offers river-based travel experiences along the Rajang River, visits to traditional longhouses and immersive community-based cultural encounters. The region is also known for Sibu’s Foochow culinary heritage and Sarikei’s reputation as Sarawak’s “Pineapple Town.”

North Sarawak

Northern Sarawak, via Miri, provides access to Sarawak’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park — recognised for their remarkable

limestone cave systems, biodiversity and archaeological significance. The region also offers access to the cool highland landscapes of Bario in the Kelabit Highlands.

For more information on Sarawak’s attractions, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

SONO gains foothold in Vietnam

By
Newsdesk
-

HANOI, Vietnam, 2 April 2026: SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia has signed a Hotel Management Agreement with Binh Minh Urban Construction Investment JSC, marking the brand’s first city hotel in Vietnam’s capital. 

SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter, featuring 56 rooms, is scheduled to open in Q4 2026.

Photo credit: SONO. An artist’s impression of the hotel entrance.

Located in the heart of Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, the hotel will be within walking distance of the iconic Hanoi Opera House, luxury boutiques, heritage landmarks, and the capital’s dining and café scene.

SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia, Senior Vice President Jihong An commented: “We are honoured to collaborate with Binh Minh Urban Construction Investment JSC to bring SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter to life in such an iconic location.”

About SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia
SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia is a hotel management company wholly owned by SONO International, one of South Korea’s leading hospitality groups. Backed by SONO International’s portfolio of over 14,500 operating rooms across seven countries, the group operates in South Korea, the US, France, and key Asian markets, including Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, and Vietnam.

SOTC Travel opens store in Hyderabad

By
Newsdesk
-

MUMBAI, 2 April 2026: SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel travel and tourism company, has inaugurated its new franchise in Himayath Nagar, Hyderabad, further strengthening its presence in the city and expanding its network to five outlets in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Located in the city’s heart, Himayath Nagar is a prominent commercial and retail hub with strong connectivity to Hyderabad’s key residential and business districts.

The area’s high consumer footfall, growing affluence and vibrant retail landscape make it an ideal location for SOTC’s continued expansion in the region.

SOTC sales team at the new office in Himayath Nagar, Hyderabad.

The new store will serve travellers through SOTC’s integrated omnichannel model – offering a comprehensive portfolio of domestic and international holidays, group tours, personalised holidays and cruises, along with value-added services such as travel insurance, ensuring seamless end-to-end travel experiences.

Hyderabad/Telangana travel trends

Top Destinations:

· Domestic & Indian Subcontinent: Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Kerala, Andaman, Bhutan, Nepal & Sri Lanka

· International: Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, South Africa, Egypt, Hong Kong, Switzerland, France, Finland, Norway, Sweden

· Island Destinations: Maldives and Mauritius

· Emerging destinations: Morocco, Georgia, Philippines, Taiwan, Uzbekistan

· Spiritual/Darshan Portfolio: Strong interest in pilgrimage experiences, including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Char Dham Yatra and Vaishnodevi Yatra, reflecting the region’s continued affinity for spiritual travel

· Regional Product Portfolio: Exclusive special tours from Hyderabad designed specifically for our Telangana customers. These itineraries include local Indian language–speaking tour managers, Indian cuisine options and culturally aligned experiences, ensuring greater comfort and familiarity for travellers

· Emerging Travel Preferences: Travellers from Hyderabad and Telangana state are increasingly seeking experiential and bucket-list holidays such as luxury multi-destination cruises, polar expeditions to Antarctica, Northern Lights experiences across Finland, Norway and Iceland, self-drive holidays and adventure-led itineraries.

· Top customer segments: Multi-generational families, honeymooners/couples, working professionals, millennials and GenZ

· Average holiday duration: 4–6 days for domestic/short haul; 10–15 days for long haul

SOTC Travel Limited Senior Vice President & Head – Holidays Rakesh Bawa commented: “Hyderabad continues to be a strong growth market for SOTC in South India and presents a significant opportunity to tap into the growing travel demand from regional India. The launch of our Himayath Nagar outlet reflects our strategic focus on strengthening our presence in the city. With this addition, our network now spans five outlets across Hyderabad, with the centrally located Himayath Nagar store offering customers expert guidance and seamless access to our comprehensive range of holiday experiences.”

(Source: SOTC)

AAPA February traffic reveals solid growth

By
Newsdesk
-

KUALA LUMPUR, 2 April 2026: February 2026 traffic figures released this week by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed robust growth in international air passenger demand, supported by increased leisure travel during the Lunar New Year festive period. 

International air cargo demand also recorded solid growth, despite the traditional factory closures associated with the festive season, with volumes underpinned by continued strength in e-commerce and demand for intermediate goods.

In February, the region’s carriers saw a 9% year-on-year increase in international passengers carried, reaching an aggregate total of 33 million. Demand, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), rose by 8.8%, while available seat capacity expanded by 8% year-on-year, leading to a 0.7 percentage point increase in the average international passenger load factor to 83.4% for the month.

Trade activity remained resilient, reflecting demand for consumer, intermediate and investment goods. This, in turn, drove a strong 8.7% year-on-year increase in international air cargo demand, as measured by freight tonne-kilometres (FTK) in February. Demand growth outpaced a corresponding 8.3% increase in offered freight capacity, resulting in a 0.3 percentage point rise in the average international freight load factor to 58.2%.

Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General, Subhas Menon, said: “Against a backdrop of steady global economic growth, combined figures for the first two months of the year showed a firm 6.3% increase in the number of international passengers carried by the region’s airlines to 69 million, supported by strong travel demand across Asian economies.”

“Meanwhile, positive business confidence, alongside rising orders for goods manufactured in Asia, supported growth in international air cargo demand, with volumes rising by a solid 7.6% during the first two months of 2026, compared to the same period last year.”

He added: “However, the escalation in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East region at the end of February has introduced greater uncertainty to the operating environment. Asian airlines are facing increased operational challenges, as the rise in conflicts has reduced the availability of airspace, particularly along key Asia – Europe corridors, effectively constraining capacity on these routes and limiting network flexibility for affected carriers.”

“The sharp increase in jet fuel prices from an average of USD90 per barrel in the first two months of the year to an average of USD150 per barrel in the first three weeks of March has left little time for airlines to adjust, while longer flight routings have increased operating costs, placing additional pressure on already thin profit margins.”

Looking ahead, Menon concluded: “The broadly positive outlook for the airline industry will continue to be clouded by the evolving geopolitical situation. Prolonged conflicts over the Middle East may increase inflationary pressures and affect business and consumer sentiment on both passenger and cargo markets. Close coordination between governments and industry stakeholders is critical to ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of air services, while maintaining global connectivity.”

(Source: AAPA)

IndiGo starts Kolkata – Shanghai flights

By
Newsdesk
-

DELHI, 2 April 2026: IndiGo commenced its daily, non-stop service between Kolkata and Shanghai on 29 March 2026, marking another significant milestone in strengthening air connectivity between India and China. 

This launch builds on IndiGo’s recent expansion in China, which included the successful reinstatement of flights from Kolkata to Guangzhou and the subsequent start of operations from Delhi. 

Photo credit: IndiGo.

The Kolkata-Shanghai route is being operated with IndiGo’s A320neo aircraft as the airline continues to address the growing demand for trade and tourism between two of the world’s most populous nations. 

Residents in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Jaipur and Bhubaneswar will be able to connect with the flight from Kolkata to Shanghai.

IndiGo Head of Global Sales Vinay Malhotra said: “We are pleased to commence our daily, direct flights between Kolkata and Shanghai, further strengthening connectivity between India and China.

In addition to our existing daily connectivity from Delhi and Kolkata to Guangzhou, we now operate 21 weekly flights to mainland China. Shanghai is one of the world’s leading financial and commercial centres, and an important gateway for global trade. 

(Source: IndiGo)

Star Voyager embarks on three-night sailings

By
Newsdesk
-

HONG KONG, 2 April 2026: StarCruises introduces three round-trip Kaohsiung–Penghu cruises, departing from Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal aboard the Star Voyager for three nights. 

These new sailings replace the previous three-night Sanya itineraries, offering guests the opportunity to explore two destinations in a single voyage, combining cultural discovery with scenic coastal experiences.

Departing on 12 and 19 April and 10 May 2026, these limited sailings will take travellers to the port city of Kaohsiung and the island paradise of Penghu — an increasingly sought-after destination.

What makes this journey especially appealing is the ease and convenience of cruising from Hong Kong with StarCruises. With no airport queues and no need for constant packing and unpacking, guests can step onboard and enjoy a seamless journey between destinations.

From the energetic cityscape of Kaohsiung to the relaxed island charm of Penghu, the itinerary brings two contrasting experiences together in one voyage.

Bookings for the three-night Kaohsiung–Penghu cruise opened on 1 April 2026.

(Source: StarCruises)

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