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Tourism leaders join COP29 roundtable

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: Tourism’s place in global climate action will be centre stage on 20 November at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, as part of the COP29 Presidential Initiatives. 

For the first time, the UN Climate Change Conference of the parties will welcome Tourism Ministers, placing the sector firmly within the COP29 Action Agenda.

UN Tourism reported in its latest update on COP29, saying the inclusion of tourism leaders worldwide was welcomed by the G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting in Belem, Brazil.

It provides a high-level platform for dialogue, initiated and led by the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). 

This achievement reflects the leading role played by UN Tourism in a shift for a science-based approach to guide the sector on tourism climate action and builds on the efforts of the Glasgow Declaration Initiative, which is implemented within the framework of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme. 

The collaboration of committed Member States and tourism stakeholders and the support provided by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), have been instrumental in achieving this landmark momentum for the tourism sector at COP29.

Scheduled for 20 November, the First Ministerial Meeting on Climate Action in Tourism will be followed by three high-level thematic roundtables addressing three hot topics: measurement and decarbonisation, regeneration (adaptation) and finance and innovative solutions; the outcome will build towards a bold tourism climate agenda for good UN Tourism noted.

Access the Programme of Events here.

Baku Declaration: Tourism steps up its ambitions

The COP29 Presidency will lead the launch of the Baku Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism. The Declaration is a call to action in response to the need to develop more economy-wide Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement, as called for by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, UNFCCC’s Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, and UN Tourism Secretary–General Zurab Pololikashvili. 

In Baku, government representatives will be encouraged to endorse the Declaration and set out their plans to connect tourism policies and efforts with national climate goals and the UN Climate Change Agenda. UN Tourism and the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan will release a Position Paper on Exploring Opportunities to Integrate Tourism in NDCs in a nationally determined manner for public consultation.

The full text of the Baku Declaration is available here (see Annex 9 on page 20).

Boosting Engagement and Accountability

Two of UN Tourism’s flagship sustainability initiatives will also feature in the Thematic Day, with stakeholders urged to take action.

The Glasgow Declaration Initiative on Climate Action in Tourism is a voluntary commitment launched at COP26, implemented within the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme framework, and recognised as a Global Climate Action initiative by UNFCCC. At COP29, the Glasgow Declaration Initiative will be given fresh impetus to include additional signatories, especially focusing on its positioning as a tool to support the implementation of national climate policies through tourism climate action structured around five strategic pathways: measurement, decarbonisation, regeneration/adaptation, collaboration, and finance.

To join the Glasgow Declaration Initiative and become part of a multi-stakeholder network of over 900 organisations collectively working on climate action, please visit Glasgow Declaration Initiative page.

Also in Baku, the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST), adopted by the UN Statistical Commission in February 2024, will be formally acknowledged as the tool to measure the sector’s climate action impacts. 

“The MST Framework moves beyond GDP to include environmental data, such as GHG emissions and energy use. In recognition of this, MST will be positioned in its capacity to drive the production of more trustworthy, country-owned and internationally comparable data on the impact of tourism on climate change, laying the necessary foundation for progress in the mitigation of tourism-related GHG emissions and energy efficiency,” the UN Tourism statement explained.

ONYX rebrands Bangsaen hotel

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE 14 November 2024: ONYX Hospitality Group has signed an agreement to manage Amari The Tide Bangsaen set to reveal its new look in the second quarter of 2025. 

Located in Thailand’s Chonburi Province on the eastern seaboard, the hotel group recently secured a management contract for the Amari The Tide Bangsaen with the developer and owner Five Leader Group Co Ltd. The owner’s representative, Thanasit Khunplome and ONYX Hospitality Group CEO Yuthachai Charanachitta presided over the signing ceremony.

Left to Right: Thanasit Khunplome andYuthachai Charanachitta.

The project’s neighbourhood on Thailand‘s eastern seaboard has seen a steady expansion in recent years, driven by the continuous development of infrastructure to support tourism and its capacity to host major festivals and events. This positions the 154-room Amari The Tide Bangsaen as an appealing destination for Thai and international tourists within close reach of Bangkok, just over an hour’s drive, and only 45 minutes from Pattaya city. 

Thanasit, representing the owner of Five Leader Group Co Ltd, said the decision to rebrand the hotel from The Tide Resort to Amari The Tide Bangsaen would support Bangsaen in hosting sporting events, such as the Bangsaen Series, Ironman 70.3 Triathlon, and Bangsaen Grandprix Road Race.

Qantas closes seat sale at midnight

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: Last-minute offers are due to expire. The Qantas 72-hour sale, which presents 1 million discounted seats to more than 60 destinations around Australia, ends at midnight on Thursday, 14 November.

Travellers can snap up domestic economy sale fares starting from AUD109 one-way for travel from 24 December 2024 to 18 September 2025, including some dates across the Christmas and school holidays.

The sale on 30 routes with fares around AUD150 one way includes Brisbane to Whitsunday Coast, Melbourne to Gold Coast and Launceston to Melbourne.

Qantas fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, free Wi-Fi on domestic aircraft and seat selection.

Qantas Frequent Flyer recently launched a new type of reward seat called Classic Plus. Classic Plus reward seats can be booked across international flights and will be rolled out on domestic flights by the end of the year.

Sale fares are available until 2359 (AEDT) on 14 November 2024.

Demand for aircraft soars to new heights

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 14 November 2024: Airbus has released its latest regional market forecast, projecting that the Asia-Pacific aviation sector will require 19,500 new aircraft over the next 20 years. 

This demand represents 46% of the global requirement, which is expected to reach around 42,430 new aircraft by 2043.

Airbus Asia-Pacific President Anand Stanley presented these findings during the Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) Annual Assembly of Presidents in Brunei, underscoring the region’s continued growth and importance in the global aviation market.

The Asia-Pacific forecast, which includes China and India, reflects a year-on-year growth of 3% in terms of new aircraft needed. With this surge in demand, the region’s fleet will continue to expand, driven by both growth and replacement needs, with sustainability initiatives becoming more prevalent.

Airbus anticipates the need for 16,000 single-aisle aircraft, such as the A220 and A320neo Family, to support the region’s short-to-medium haul routes. At the same time, demand for medium and large-sized long-range aircraft, like the A330neo and A350, will total approximately 3,500 aircraft. Key recent widebody aircraft orders in the region include Cathay Pacific (A330neo), as well as EVA Air, Japan Airlines and Korean Air (A350), with several other ongoing campaigns expected to fuel growth.

Airbus estimates that nearly 71% of the aircraft deliveries will support fleet expansion, while 29% will replace older models, significantly contributing to decarbonisation efforts. The next generation of Airbus widebody aircraft offers an immediate 25% improvement in fuel efficiency and a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions. These advancements reflect Airbus’ commitment to supporting the aviation industry’s goal of minimising its environmental footprint.

In the cargo segment, Asia-Pacific is expected to require 250 new widebody freighter aircraft, representing 10% of global demand for new freighters. The A350F, based on the proven A350 platform, is poised to meet this demand with superior efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions, and best-in-class economics. The A350F also complies with the latest ICAO emissions standards, positioning it as the frontrunner in the large freighter market. A key endorsement of this model from the region comes from STARLUX Airlines, which ordered five A350Fs earlier this year.

In passenger traffic, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to have an annual growth rate of 4.8%, outpacing the global growth rate of 3.6%. Widebody aircraft are pivotal to this growth, enhancing passenger connectivity and supporting the region’s increasing cargo needs. E-commerce and global trade drive demand for efficient cargo transport, making widebody aircraft integral to swift, reliable delivery across continents.

The A350 has established itself as the leader in long-range travel, with nearly 300 A350s already in service in Asia-Pacific and another 230 on order. The aircraft’s cutting-edge technology, fuel efficiency, and superior economics make it the preferred choice for airlines across the region.

At the same time, the A330ceo replacement cycle is underway, with some 540 A330ceos currently operating in the region. The A330neo is positioned as the optimal replacement, offering a seamless transition for airlines, with commonality in pilot training and technical operations between the two models.

“As one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for significant growth over the next two decades. With rising demand for both passenger and cargo operations, we are well-positioned to help our airline partners meet their long-term goals with the most efficient, sustainable, and advanced aircraft available while contributing to decarbonisation efforts across the industry,” said Stanley.

MATTA backs tax incentives for domestic travellers

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 14 November 2024: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents welcomes the recent proposal by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, that Malaysians travelling in the country should be eligible for income tax deductions.

MATTA says the move would promote domestic tourism and cut travel expenses if it is approved.

MATTA commends YB Datuk Seri Tiong’s proactive leadership in seeking innovative ways to encourage domestic tourism, especially as we build our momentum toward Visit Malaysia 2026. 

By allowing tax deductions on expenses incurred on domestic travel, people will be further incentivised to support local tourism stakeholders such as travel agents and tour operators, hotels, local business enterprises, and local communities.

In support of the proposal, MATTA calls for tax deductions to be applied specifically to travel expenses booked through various stakeholders, such as licensed travel agencies, tour operators, and hotels. 

This measure will ensure that government-supported incentives reach legal tourism operators and industry players, further strengthening the industry’s integrity, professionalism, and contribution to the country’s economic growth.

MATTA President Nigel Wong stated: “The Minister’s proposal is a progressive step towards boosting domestic tourism and ensuring that travel within Malaysia remains both accessible and beneficial for Malaysians. MATTA has advocated for such support measures in previous submissions for the national Budget to the Ministry of Finance. We believe incentivising Malaysians to explore local destinations will boost domestic tourism and create ripple effects that support job creation, economic growth and cultural exchange within the country.”

Wong added, “MATTA has consistently championed similar measures in past budget proposals, recognising the potential to build a strong and sustainable tourism industry. We look forward to collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture and the Ministry of Finance to realise this plan, which will contribute significantly to the success of Visit Malaysia 2026 and beyond.”

HK Express welcomes 10th A321neo

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 13 November 2024: HK Express Airways (HK Express) welcomed its 10th Airbus A321neo, the largest passenger aircraft in its fleet, which serves 21 destinations.

HK Express Chief Executive Officer Jeanette Mao said: “As HK Express continues to introduce new routes, we are thrilled to welcome our 10th Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking a significant step towards growing our fleet to 40 aircraft. Since receiving our first A321neo aircraft in March last year, we have added 10 A321neo aircraft in just over a year and a half. With our fleet’s rapid expansion and the launch of new routes, HK Express will increase frequencies to over 800 weekly flights.”

HK Express CEO Jeanette Mao (second from left), HK Express Maintenance & Engineering Director Geoffrey Hung (second from right) and HK Express Maintenance & Engineering – Technical Service Engineers Kim Leung and Duncan Chiu (first from left and first from right) welcomed the 10th Airbus A321neo aircraft on the tarmac.

HK Express now flies an average of over 15,000 passengers arriving and departing the Hong Kong International Airport daily. This contributes to the development of the city’s tourism industry, facilitating more frequent travel between Hong Kong and other Asian countries while creating new business opportunities.

“HK Express is confident in the Asian market, especially with the commissioning of the Three-runway System,” Mao added. “We look forward to the new opportunities it will bring. We will continue to expand our fleet, introduce new routes, and enhance our Asian flight network, providing more affordable and reliable flight options while reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as the region’s leading international aviation hub.”

The A321neo can accommodate 236 passengers with 18-inch-wide cabin seats and plenty of overhead storage space to ease the boarding and disembarking procedures. 

HK Express has a fleet of 39 aircraft, including six Airbus A320ceo, 10 A320neo, 13 A321ceo and 10 A321neo.

JLL navigates Thailand’s largest hotel sale

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 13 November 2024 : JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group has brokered the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit sale, credited with being Thailand’s largest single-asset hotel transaction on record. 

JLL represented Thailand-listed firm Grande Asset Hotels and Property Public Company Limited on the THB5 billion (USD155 million) Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit transaction.

“Thailand continues to solidify its position as one of the most attractive global gateway destinations in the hospitality industry, drawing interest from diverse domestic and offshore investors. We’re proud to deliver this landmark transaction for our client and have deep confidence in Thailand’s strengthening position as one of the most consistent capital draws for hospitality investors. The Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit sale significantly adds waves of capital to the Thai hospitality sector. Over the past several years, we have brought capital from local and cross-border sources into the industry, and we expect to build momentum in the coming years,” said JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group.CEO, Asia Pacific, Nihat Ercan.

The transaction represents a rare landmark in the tightly held Bangkok grade-A hospitality market. According to JLL, assets in prime CBD locations such as the Hyatt Regency rarely trade and are highly prized, commanding strong interest from long-term and strategic investors.

Scoot expands its network

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TTR WEEKLY
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Aerial view of the Singapore landmark financial business district at twilight sunset scene with skyscraper and beautiful sky. Singapore downtown

SINGAPORE, 13 November 2024: Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), will launch three new flights to Phu Quoc in Vietnam, Padang in Indonesia and Shantou in China. 

Flights to Phu Quoc and Padang will commence on 20 December 2024 and 6 January 2025, respectively, using Embraer E190-E2 aircraft. Flights to Shantou will begin on 16 January 2025 and use Airbus A320s.

Wide shot of Cable car ropeway to Hon Thom – Phu Quoc island, Vietnam.

Phu Quoc is the only destination in Vietnam with a 30-day visa-free policy, offering international travellers convenient access. From 20 December 2024, Scoot will operate three weekly flights to Phu Quoc. Two more weekly flights will be added from 25 January 2025, bringing the total number of weekly flights between Singapore and Phu Quoc to five.

Padang, the capital city of West Sumatra and the birthplace of Padang cuisine (Nasi Padang) is a vibrant destination known for its Minangkabau culture and breathtaking beaches for surfing. Scoot will operate four times weekly flights to Padang.

Shantou, a coastal city located in the province of Guangdong in China, is a destination with a deep cultural heritage and home to Chaoshan cuisine, including marinated raw seafood. Travellers may like to stroll down Shantou Small Park to see the memorial hall of Dr Sun Yat-sen at Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion or escape the city to bask in Nan Ao Island’s blue skies, sandy beaches and majestic mountains. Scoot will operate three times weekly flights to Shantou.

In addition to the new destinations, Scoot will adjust its network to match capacity to demand and optimise fleet deployment.

Scoot will add two more weekly flights to Jakarta, bringing the total number of weekly flights to 19 times weekly from 24 November 2024. Services to Koh Samui will be increased from 14 to 21 times weekly from 20 December 2024, and services to Davao will increase from nine to 11 flights weekly from 22 December 2024. Flights to Vientiane will increase from four to five times weekly from 9 February 2025. Operations to Nanchang will be suspended after the last flight on 14 February 2025.

With the launch of services to Phu Quoc, Padang and Shantou, Scoot will operate 31 weekly flights to three cities in Vietnam, 84 weekly flights to 11 cities in Indonesia and 89 weekly flights to 17 points in China by January 2025.

Flights to Phu Quoc, Padang and Shantou are open for bookings via Scoot’s website, mobile app, and progressively through other channels. 

One-way economy class fares, including taxes, start at SGD135 to Phu Quoc, SGD119 to Padang, and SGD169 to Shantou.

Scoot Chief Executive Officer Leslie Thng said: “We are happy to announce the introduction of flight services to Padang, Phu Quoc and Shantou, and hope to inspire more travellers to discover the diverse experiences our new destinations have to offer. We will continue to seek opportunities, expand our network and connect our customers to new travel experiences.”

AAPA airline members meet in Brunei

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei Darussalam, 13 November 2024: Leaders of Asia Pacific air carriers gathering in Brunei for the AAPA’s 68th Assembly of Presidents are buoyed by resiliently strong international air travel and cargo growth in 2024, which has resulted in the Asia Pacific region once again becoming the largest air transport market in the world.

Themed ‘Future Proofing Asian Aviation,’ the Assembly will assess the industry’s recovery and the challenges to continued growth, including the ongoing supply chain issues affecting the timely delivery of aircraft, engines, components, and parts.

A key focus will be aviation sustainability. A panel of experts representing airlines, airports, aircraft producers, governments, and sustainable aviation fuel suppliers will discuss the path to carbon neutrality before airline leaders consider Assembly resolutions to be announced at the event’s conclusion.

The potential for an air travel boom in emerging markets across the region will also be on the radar. Airline leaders are meeting at an exciting time, with the pandemic well over and economies in the region expected to grow exponentially in the next few years. Discussions will focus on the future outlook and a vision to make air travel even more sustainable, seamless, and hassle-free for future generations.

“Brunei is an ideal setting for the Assembly this year. Its rich natural habitat provides an inspirational backdrop to discussions on how future air travel could look. As we embark on the 68th Assembly of Presidents, we are focused on what lies ahead, with the lessons of the past four years serving as a springboard for discussions on the future of air travel in the world’s largest aviation market,” said AAPA Director General Subhas Menon.

Air Astana launches Phu Quoc flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 13 November 2024: Air Astana will launch direct flights from Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, to the tropical resort island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam on 3 December 2024. 

The service will be operated by Airbus A321LR aircraft three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

With the direct Almaty-Phu Quoc service launched on 28 October 2024, total frequencies from Kazakhstan to Phu Quoc will increase to eight weekly flights. The schedule provides passengers with the flexibility to connect through both hubs.

The Astana-Phu Quoc service departs at 2130 and arrives in Phu Quoc at 0745 on the following morning. The return flight will depart Phu Quoc at 0915 and arrive back in Astana at 1615. All times local. 

Round-trip fares start from USD774 in economy class and USD1,979 in business class.

Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise famed for its pristine beaches, lush jungles and vibrant local culture. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling, exploring trails in the National Park, and visiting fishing villages to experience local life and savour fresh seafood. 

Other attractions include Vinpearl Safari, the Dinh Cau Night Market, the pristine Sao Beach and the Hon Thom cable car. The best time to visit Phu Quoc is from November to March. Kazakhstan citizens can enjoy visa-free travel to Vietnam for up to 30 days.

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