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Air France schedules Paris-Phuket flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 21 April 2025: Air France will introduce flights between Paris and Phuket during the 2025-2026 winter season starting November 2025.  

It follows the launch of direct flights between Paris and Manila in the Philippines, which was introduced in the winter schedule for 2024/2025.

Photo credit: Air France. Phuket’s white sand and clear seas.

Effective 27 November 2025, the airline will offer three flights weekly on Monday, Thursday and Saturday between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Phuket in southern Thailand. A Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will serve the route with 363 seats configured with first class, business class, premium economy and economy cabin.

Flight schedule

AF156 departs from Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) at 1550 and arrives in Phuket (HKT) at 0925 plus a day.
AF157 departs from Phuket (HKT) at 1150 and arrives in Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) at 1910.

With this new route, Air France continues to meet the growing demand for travel to Asia. By winter 2025-2026, Air France will serve 11 destinations in Asia: Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Manila, Osaka, Beijing, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo-Haneda, and Phuket.

Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is famed for its beaches, lush landscapes, and a blend of traditional and modern culture. It is the perfect base for exploring neighbouring islands and the mainland on the Andaman Sea coast. 

Phuket’s  beach attractions

Patong Beach: The most famous and busiest beach, known for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and bustling atmosphere.

Kata Beach: A beautiful stretch of soft sand with clear waters, popular for families and surfing during the low season.

Karon Beach: The second-longest beach in Phuket, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than Patong, with ample space for strolling and water activities.

Surin Beach: Known for its clear waters and upscale resorts, it is a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the sunset.

Mai Khao Beach: The longest beach in Phuket, located near the airport, offering a tranquil escape and unique “plane spotting” opportunities.

Nai Harn Beach: A popular beach in the south of the island, known for its natural beauty and a more laid-back vibe than the west coast beaches.

Phuket Old Town

It is historically rich and showcases Sino-Portuguese architecture, reflecting the island’s tin-mining past and cultural fusion. 

Colourful Shophouses: Well-preserved buildings lining the streets, now housing cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops.

Thalang Road: A main street with a vibrant atmosphere, offering local crafts, ice cream parlors, and often hosting the Sunday Walking Street Market.

Soi Romanee: A charming lane known for its beautifully restored buildings and cafes.

Phuket Thai Hua Museum: Exhibits detailing the history and culture of Chinese immigrants in Phuket.

Jui Tui Shrine: A colourful and significant Chinese temple.

Big Buddha: A prominent landmark and one of the most revered sites on the island situated on Nakkerd Hill. The viewpoint offers panoramic 360-degree views of southern Phuket, including Chalong Bay, Kata, and Karon.

MATTA Fair Sabah 2025: Bigger and better holiday deals

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TTR WEEKLY
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KOTA KINABALU, 18 APRIL 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Sabah Chapter will host the MATTA Fair Sabah 2025, from 9 to 11 May 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). 

The three-day travel fair will bring together irresistible travel, tour, flight, and hospitality deals — all under one roof and at unbeatable prices.

From left, Mohd Azlan Saleh Bin Abd Salam, Sabah Chapter Chairman. Rocky Kho, Honorary Treasurer of MATTA and Organising Chairman of MATTA Fair Sabah 2025. Phua Tai Neng, Honorary Secretary General of MATTA.

Sabah, part of Borneo Island, is vital to Malaysia’s tourism growth. The beautiful state, known for its natural beauty, including Mount Kinabalu, is also home to centuries-old customs and a place where heritage lives and breathes. These qualities have long made Sabah a favourite destination among local and international travellers.

MATTA Fair Sabah 2025 aims to elevate Sabah’s tourism appeal with travel agents, airlines, and hospitality providers offering exclusive travel packages. This year’s fair will showcase a record-breaking 130 booths, a major leap from the 78 booths featured in 2024. 

RHB has joined the fair as the Official Bank Partner, further enhancing visitors’ experience with exclusive on-ground promotions, financial solutions, and rewards that add even more value to travel purchases.

With a proven track record of consistent growth, MATTA Fair Sabah recorded a significant MYR21 million in sales last year alone — a clear indication of strong demand for travel and growing consumer confidence in the tourism sector.

This strong momentum reflects the public’s excitement to travel and the tourism industry’s resilience,” said Rocky Kho, Organising Chairman of MATTA Fair Sabah 2025. “MATTA remains committed to driving domestic and inbound tourism, recognising their importance as key pillars of Malaysia’s economic growth. With Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) on the horizon and MATTA as the strategic partner, our goal is to empower both consumers and our tour and travel members to enhance Sabah’s beauty and enforce exposure and opportunities needed to succeed in the global tourism landscape.”

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the Official Airline Partner for MATTA Fair Sabah 2025, offers attractive travel packages and exclusive destinations, further sweetening the deals available.

In addition to the travel deals, visitors can participate in the MATTA Fair Buyers’ Contest, a flagship crowd favourite where shoppers can win exciting prizes — including attractive travel packages from MAG — simply by spending a minimum of RM100 at the fair.

For more information and the latest updates on the upcoming MATTA Fair Sabah, visit www.mattafair.org.my. 

Singapore signs a raft of tourism M0Us

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 18 April 2025: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) inked seven MOUs and a collaboration agreement on the sidelines of its recent annual Tourism Industry Conference (TIC). 

“The strategic partnerships forged with local businesses and global stakeholders will strengthen Singapore’s position as a leading destination through enhanced marketing reach, deeper consumer insights, and co-created innovative experiences,” STB said in its press release.

CapitaLand Investment (CapitaLand) and STB have renewed their partnership through a three-year collaboration agreement.

The collaborations leverage each party’s strengths and underscore STB’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with industry partners to drive sustainable tourism growth and shape Singapore’s diverse leisure and trade offerings on the global stage.

CapitaLand Investment STB Partnership

CapitaLand Investment (CapitaLand) and STB have renewed their partnership through a three-year collaboration agreement. This renewed collaboration will run from June 2025 to May 2028, focusing on attracting new international brands and rejuvenating CapitaLand’s existing concepts and attractions.

Dempsey Precinct Partnership 

Dempsey representatives, HSBC Bank (Singapore) Limited, and STB have jointly formed the Dempsey Precinct Partnership to promote the historic lifestyle precinct. The inaugural partnership seeks to drive awareness of the precinct’s offerings and encourage greater exploration of the Dempsey area.

HSBC cardholders enjoy exclusive deals at over 30 establishments throughout the Dempsey precinct, encompassing dining, retail and lifestyle experiences. The partners will continue to collaborate in curating and promoting these deals.

Fever Labs Inc

Fever Labs Inc and STB have signed a three-year MOU to strengthen Singapore’s position as Asia’s leading attractions and entertainment hub. 

The partnership aims to boost international visitor arrivals and tourism spending while elevating Singapore’s appeal as a destination. The collaboration will focus on securing signature events and providing joint marketing support.

Klook 

Klook, an online travel booking platform, and STB have broadened their partnership to drive inbound tourism to Singapore with a new three-year MOU. Under the agreement, STB and Klook will focus on four key areas to support STB’s 2040 ambitions.

Pop Mart International 

Pop Mart International, the renowned Chinese toy company, and STB have inked a three-year partnership. This first-of-its-kind collaboration between Pop Mart and a tourism destination will bring exclusive products and experiences to Singapore.  

The partnership will see Singapore as the exclusive host for the only POP TOY SHOW outside of China in 2025 and 2026 – the largest toy exhibition in Asia featuring pop culture-toys, collectibles and merchandise. 

Pop Mart International and Mandai Wildlife Group

Mandai Wildlife Group and STB are joining forces with Pop Mart International (Pop Mart) to create an enchanting experience featuring their globally popular IPs, such as LABUBU, part of THE MONSTERS. This collaboration brings wildlife education and pop culture together through the immersive takeover of selected wildlife parks, targeted to launch in Q1 2026.

Singapore Business Federation

Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and STB have signed a two-year MOU to strengthen the local MICE ecosystem and pursue new opportunities by expanding the pool of local hosts for association conferences. 

This partnership aims to enhance the capabilities of local trade associations, facilitate networking between local and international members to drive business opportunities and empower local associations to bid for and host world-class business events in Singapore.

Wiggle Wiggle (BMSMILE) – Singapore Flyer 

Singapore Flyer and STB are partnering with South Korean lifestyle brand Wiggle Wiggle to transform one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks starting from Q2 2025. The four-month marketing partnership, Wiggle Wiggle’s first in Southeast Asia, features five themed capsules and giant inflatables at the Singapore Flyer.

KAL reports Q1 results

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 18 April 2025: Korean Air reported strong demand in both passenger and cargo sectors during the first quarter of 2025, but operating profit at KRW350.9 billion (USD239.3 million) declined by 19%.

Korean Air recorded revenue of KRW3.9559 trillion (USD2.6975 billion) for the first quarter of 2025, a 3% increase year over year.

Photo credit: Korean Air.

The quarter’s dip in operating profit was blamed primarily on higher operating costs related to the depreciation and maintenance of newly introduced aircraft and increased operating unit costs resulting from currency fluctuations.

A key factor contributing to the rise in operating costs was the addition of new aircraft, with deliveries previously postponed due to the pandemic. These aircraft are part of Korean Air’s broader strategy to boost capacity and elevate service quality over the mid to long term. By deploying its latest aircraft, the airline aims to grow its global network, enhance the passenger experience, and strengthen overall profitability.

The passenger business generated KRW2.4355 trillion in revenue during the first quarter, marking a 4% increase year-on-year. Despite heightened competition from increased market capacity and various domestic and international uncertainties, strong travel demand during the Lunar New Year and March holiday period supported revenue and traffic growth.

The airline expects continued growth in the passenger business in the second quarter, fueled by strong travel demand during the early May holidays. Strong performance is anticipated on outbound routes from Korea to Southeast Asia, China and Japan.

Samui bookings shine for Bangkok Airways

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 18 April 2025: Bangkok Airways forecasts it will carry 4.7 million passengers in 2025, with popular routes to Samui Island a critical factor driving its operating profit.   

During its fiscal year ending 31 December 2024, Bangkok Airways achieved revenue of THB26.04 billion and expenses of THB20.64 billion, resulting in a net profit of THB 3.8 billion. The airline’s operating profit reached THB 5.45 billion, with an EBITDA margin of 28% and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.53.

Bangkok Airways’ President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth reports on the airline’s strategic direction for 2025.

Bangkok Airways projects 48,077 flights, an average passenger load factor of 82%, and an average ticket price of THB 4,200 per seat for 2025. 

The Samui route remains the most popular, with advance bookings for March–September 2025 increasing by 14%. To meet rising demand, the airline plans to resume the Samui-Kuala Lumpur route with one daily flight in Q4, catering to European travellers connecting via Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Currently, Bangkok Airways operates flights to 19 destinations, including 11 domestic routes: Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang), Samui, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Trat, Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Sukhothai, Hat Yai, and U-Tapao, and eight international routes: Maldives, Singapore and  Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Luang Prabang, Hong Kong, Chengdu, and Chongqing. 

In a recent performance review, the airline said it will continue expanding its partnerships. It now boasts 30 codeshare partners and over 70 interline agreements worldwide.

Bangkok Airways is optimising fleet management and expects to operate 25 aircraft in 2025. The airline also plans a fleet modernisation programme, replacing ATR72-600 aircraft with 12 new aircraft to be delivered between 2026 and 2028.

Regarding airport operations, the company will renovate Samui Airport’s passenger terminal, with construction commencing in Q4 2025. Additionally, Trat Airport is undergoing a runway expansion to accommodate jet aircraft. 

Bangkok Airways will host the 69th AAPA Assembly of Presidents 2025 from 14 to 15 November 2025. The event will welcome over 250 top airline executives from 18 airlines and global regulatory bodies such as ICAO and IATA. 

On the marketing front, the company’s 2025 sales strategy focuses on international markets, which deliver the airline’s primary customer base. 

Sales projections indicate that 28% of ticket sales will be sold through the airline’s website and 72% via other channels (IATA Bank Settlement Plan travel agents, online travel agencies, and the airline’s call centres). The “other schannels” include 32% sales derived from direct application programme interface (API) and the IATA New Distribution Capability. 

Outsourcing to traditional general sales agency channels, the airline will tap bookings in Southwest Asia, Saudi Arabia, Latin America, and Turkey, leveraging 26 General Sales agency offices worldwide.

Specifically, it targets prime markets such as the US, UK, Germany, and Australia. At the same time, the company strengthens its presence in high-growth markets such as Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, India, and China, where visa-free policies are stimulating demand. The airline also enhances direct connectivity via API/NDC/Direct Connect.

Bangkok Airways also enhances its codeshare ticketing system with leading airlines such as Qantas, Thai Airways, British Airways, Lufthansa Group, Emirates, Etihad, and EVA Air.

Cambodia Air flies to Dara Sakor

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TTR WEEKLY
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PHNOM PENH, 18 April  2025: Cambodia Airways celebrated its inaugural flight to the domestic destination Dara Sakor in Cambodia’s Koh Kong province earlier this week, the only airline to serve the domestic airport (DSY).

Flying an A320 with 180 seats,  KR809 departs every Friday at 1515, arriving at the recently opened Dara Sakor International Airport at 1600. 

Photo credit: Cambodia Air. Dara Sakor’s 3,400-metre runway.

The return KR810 departs Dara Sakor airport at 1640 and arrives in Phnom Penh at 1725. 

Commencing services with a single weekly flight, the airline says in a Facebook post that it intends to increase frequencies to three weekly once passenger demand justifies expansion.

“The launch of this new flight route will not only reduce travelling time between Phnom Penh and Dara Sakor, it will also make it easier for travellers to visit and explore the breathtaking beauty of the Dara Sakor region,” the airline said in the Facebook post.

The airline noted that its Dara Sakor Phnom Penh service is the first and only commercial flight between Phnom Penh and the airport in Koh Kong province. It didn’t mention that having a casino and a resort hotel as neighbours might help to boost passenger demand on the route.

Dara Sakor International Airport (DSY)

Dara Sakor International Airport is located in Dara Sakor in Koh Kong Province, Cambodia. 
It’s a public-use airport in development serving Botum Sakor in Cambodia. Chinese-owned Tianjin Union Development Group developed the airport at the cost of USD350 million. Commercial test flights of the 3,400-metre runway took place in mid-2023. Initially, it will serve travellers heading for the Dara Sakor Resort and a nearby casino (Source: Wikipedia).

Other assets close by

Deep-water port: The port in Dara Sakor seaport can handle large ships, including cruise ships.
Military implications: The US has expressed concerns about the airport’s potential use by Chinese military aircraft and the deep-water port’s ability to support Chinese warships.
Ream Naval Base: The Cambodian government has granted China exclusive rights to operate within Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base for 30 years. The base is also near Dara Sakor.

Why fly to Dara Sakor?

Cambodia Air’s decision to fly to Dara Sakor Airport in Koh Kong province is likely driven by several factors, primarily related to tourism and economic development in the region.

Boosting Tourism: Koh Kong province boasts significant natural attractions, including a long coastline with islands and beaches, dense rainforests in the Cardamom Mountains, and ecotourism opportunities like mangrove kayaking and wildlife spotting. 

The commencement of regular flights to Dara Sakor Airport significantly improves accessibility for both domestic and international tourists, who previously had to rely on long road journeys from Phnom Penh or flights from Siem Reap. 

Attracting Investment: The development of Dara Sakor Airport itself, a large-scale project, signals a focus on economic growth in Koh Kong. Improved air connectivity can attract domestic and foreign investment in various sectors, including tourism, real estate, and industry. 

Serving the Dara Sakor Resort: The airport is intended to serve the new Dara Sakor Resort, a significant tourism and development project. By offering direct flights, Cambodia Air can cater to the resort’s visitors, making it a more attractive destination once flights increase to three weekly.   

Developing Domestic Air Travel: Cambodia Air’s new route from Phnom Penh is a key step in establishing domestic air travel to this previously underserved region. This aligns with a broader trend in developing air connectivity within Cambodia.   

Strategic Location: Koh Kong’s location bordering Thailand also makes Dara Sakor Airport a potentially important gateway for cross-border tourism and trade in the future. While the initial flights are domestic, the airport’s infrastructure suggests ambitions for international connections are on the table.

Photo credit Google Map. Dara Sakor International Airport, 198 km from Sihanoukville town by road. The ferry route from Dara Sakor to Koh Rong island is approximately 18 km or 10 nautical miles.

RHB Bank delivers travel perks at MATTA Fair

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 18 April 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has designated RHB Bank as its Exclusive Platinum Sponsor for the MATTA Fair in April 2025. 

This is the fourth consecutive partnership as RHB Bank strengthens its legacy at the MATTA Fair, which will be held from 18 to 20 April at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur (MITEC).

This partnership delivers travel deals and financial benefits for all MATTA Fair visitors. With RHB Bank, visitors can expect exclusive financial benefits, tailored promotions, and seamless payment solutions throughout the three-day fair. Visitors can stop by their booths at Level 2 International Hall and Level 1 Domestic Hall at MITEC.

As the Exclusive Platinum Sponsor, RHB Bank continues to play an important role in empowering travellers and industry players and ensuring accessibility to exciting travel opportunities through attractive financial solutions. Their strong presence at the fair will feature exclusive banking perks and promotions aimed at making travel more rewarding and convenient for all visitors.

“RHB Bank’s continued support as our Exclusive Platinum Sponsor highlights the strength of our collaboration and partnership in driving the growth of Malaysia’s travel and tourism industry. This partnership directly benefits our MATTA members by enhancing accessibility to financial solutions that empower them to offer better travel packages to consumers and enhance the visitors’ experience, thus ensuring they get the best value when booking their next holiday or adventure at the MATTA Fair,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.

Visitors to the fair can enjoy exclusive travel-related financial offerings from RHB, including discounts of up to MYR1,500 on flights and hotel bookings when using RHB Visa Cards/-i in collaboration with RHB’s designated travel partner. RHB is also introducing tailored offers designed specifically for Muslim travellers.

Among the highlights is the RHB Multi-Currency Visa Debit Card/-i, a preferred choice for globetrotters. It enables seamless transactions in 34 currencies with no foreign conversion fees for supported currencies. The card offers a secure, cashless payment experience and integrates easily with digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay – making it an ideal travel companion.

RHB will also offer a 0% Instalment Payment Plan exclusively for RHB Visa Credit Card/-i holders at participating travel agents during the fair. In addition, RHB has launched RHB PayLater/-i, Malaysia’s first Buy Now, Pay Later (“BNPL”) solution linked to a debit card. Available via RHB Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i, this feature allows customers to split purchases into interest-free instalments of up to six months at participating merchants.

RHB Banking Group Managing Director of Group Community Banking Jeffrey Ng Eow Oo shared, “We are proud to continue our journey with the MATTA Fair for the fourth consecutive time. The partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to support Malaysians’ love for travel by offering smart, secure, and rewarding financial solutions. RHB Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i, in particular, has become a trusted travel companion, empowering customers with seamless, multi-currency digital payments and integration with major e-wallets. Its strong adoption – evidenced by a 97% increase in new card acquisitions and a 50% rise in spending as of February 2025 against last year – underscores our customers’ growing confidence in RHB as their travel payment partner.”

The collaboration between MATTA and RHB is geared towards enhancing the travel experience for all fairgoers – offering convenient, secure, and flexible financial solutions for both local and international trips. Visitors are encouraged to explore the full range of offerings at the RHB booth during the MATTA Fair, 18 to 20 April 2025.

To ensure a smooth visitor experience, MATTA Fair offers free admission and is open from 0800 to 2200 from Friday to Sunday. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the complimentary shuttle services from KL Sentral and Sunway Putra Mall to MITEC. For those driving, parking facilities are available at the South Entrance Basement in MITEC, MITI Basement, and MATRADE Open parking.

Discover Centara’s newest island sanctuary

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 17 April 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel operator headquartered in Thailand, has announced an exclusive opening offer at its newest island retreat, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island, set to open on 1 May 2025. 

Nestled amidst the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, this serene sanctuary invites guests to indulge in breathtaking sea views and ultimate relaxation with special room rates, added benefits, and more.

From now until 31 May 2025, guests booking stays between 1 May and 31 October 2025 will enjoy special rates starting from THB5,500 per night, including daily breakfast for two, a daily resort credit of THB 500, and early check-in and late check-out. Guests who book at least three consecutive nights will also receive complimentary round-trip boat transfers from Tonsai Pier. In addition, CentaraThe1 members will earn triple points during their stay, while new members can easily sign up for free at www.centarathe1.com to unlock more exclusive privileges.

Located a scenic two-hour ferry ride from Phuket, Centara Villas Phi Phi Island is a secluded haven offering an infinity pool, direct access to turquoise waters from the resort deck, rejuvenating treatments at Cense by Spa Cenvaree, exceptional restaurants and bars, and an array of activities catering to families, couples, and groups looking to embrace the charm of island living.

To learn more about Centara Villas Phi Phi Island and this opening offer, visit: https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cpi/cpi-openingoffer.

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 87 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, China, 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.

THAI’s A350s to head for a refit

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 17 April 2025: Airbus and Thai Airways International (THAI) have signed a Letter of Intent to retrofit the airline’s A350s with cabin upgrades to enhance passenger comfort.

Airbus will oversee the retrofit programme that will equip THAI’s fleet of A350-900 aircraft with the latest cabin innovations, ensuring a premium travel experience for passengers on long-haul routes.

The upgrades will include modernised ‘Royal Silk’ business class seats, new premium economy class seats, and economy class seats, as well as an improved in-flight entertainment system.

The cabin modernisation will start in 2028, and retrofitted aircraft should re-enter service in phases, ensuring minimal impact on the airline’s flight operations.

Airbus Head of Commercial Services APAC, Balinda Zhang said: “Airbus is pleased to support THAI in this significant investment in their fleet, ensuring that their A350 aircraft continue to offer passengers an exceptional flying experience. This retrofit aligns with our shared vision of delivering enhanced comfort and efficiency for airlines and their customers.”

Ponant to sail the White Continent

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 17 April 2025: In an unprecedented feat for a cruise ship, Ponant Explorations’ Le Commandant Charcot will embark on a complete circumnavigation of the White Continent between January and March 2028, departing from Ushuaia in Argentina.

Le Commandant Charcot will navigate nearly 18,000 kilometres of coastline along the frozen continent – larger than Europe. The circumnavigation of Antarctica is a polar expedition unlike any before.

Photo credit: Ponant Explorations.

Specifically designed for expeditions in extreme environments, Le Commandant Charcot features a PC2 polar hull. This allows her to navigate polar regions while minimising her environmental impact, thanks to her hybrid electric engine powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). 

Le Commandant Charcot will sail in January 2028 from Ushuaia (Argentina) westward to reach Hobart (Tasmania) in 30 days. After a two-day stopover, the ship will then depart again for her starting point, this time following the eastern coast of Antarctica over 34 days. 

Captains Etienne Garcia and Patrick Marchesseau designed this unprecedented itinerary. Their expertise in ice navigation at the highest latitudes, gained while commanding ships of the Ponant Exploration fleet, has made this new sailing dream a reality. They will jointly command Le Commandant Charcot during this exclusive voyage. Sales for the exclusive trip open in December 2025

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