It marks a significant capacity increase of 86% as the airline heads for the busy peak months from November 2024 through to March 2025.

Austrian Airlines operates a fleet of Airbus A320s, Boeing 767s, and Boeing 777-200s on the route to Bangkok.  

Flight OS15 will depart Vienna at 2015 and arrive in Bangkok at 1220 (daily except Sunday).
Flight OS16 will depart Bangkok at 1400 and arrive in Vienna at 1935 (daily except Monday).

Flight OS025 will depart Vienna at 2015 and arrive in Bangkok at 1530 (daily).
Flight OS026 departs Bangkok at 2350 and arrives in Vienna at 0525 (daily).

Lufthansa Group Senior Director Sales – Southeast Asia and the Pacific Brendan Shashoua commented: “Since 1988, Austrian Airlines has been connecting Vienna, the capital of Austria, with the Thai metropolis of Bangkok. Thailand is an incredibly attractive destination for Europeans, and we are responding to strong demand by increasing our weekly frequencies from Vienna from 7 to 13 flights. Last year, we introduced the A380 – the world’s largest passenger aircraft – on flights from Bangkok to Munich and this latest news from Austrian Airlines reflects our strong commitment to the Thai market. Thanks to this investment, Thai passengers now have more options when choosing to travel to Europe with Lufthansa Group.”

Austrian Airlines, a member of both Star Alliance and Lufthansa Group, connects the world with Austria via its hub in Vienna. 

About Austrian Airlines
Austrian Airlines is Austria’s largest airline, operating a worldwide network from its Vienna hub. Since its founding in 1957, Austrian Airlines has transported over 305 million passengers and more than 6,000 employees. Austrian Airlines’ current fleet consists of 66 aircraft, including nine long-haul and 57 short and medium-haul) aircraft.

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The final two reports of a series on Artificial Intelligence from WTTC, “Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI): Overview of AI Risks, Safety & Governance” and “Artificial Intelligence (AI): Global Strategies, Policies & Regulations,” underscore a commitment to a digital future that prioritises safety, ethical considerations, and responsible AI adoption.

Launched during the global tourism body’s participation at the UN General Assembly in New York, these reports mark significant milestones in WTTC’s mission to promote innovation and excellence in customer experiences through AI’s safe and trustworthy integration.

“Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI)” delves into the potential risks associated with AI deployment and offers strategies for establishing frameworks that promote transparency, accountability, and fairness.

From addressing bias and discrimination to ensuring human oversight of AI systems, this report empowers organisations to harness the power of AI responsibly.

In the fourth and final instalment, “Artificial Intelligence (AI): Global Strategies, Policies & Regulations,” WTTC provides a detailed overview of the AI ecosystem across key countries and international organisations.

It shows how policymakers are navigating the AI landscape and shaping regulations and strategies to foster AI innovation while ensuring its ethical and responsible use.

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson said: “In a rapidly evolving landscape, AI emerges as a catalyst for positive change. The insights provided in these reports demonstrate that AI is not just a technological advancement; it is a strategic tool that can personalise customer experiences, drive sustainable improvements, and shape the future of Travel & Tourism.

“AI is already being used across our sector with incredible results. Several major hotel groups, including Iberostar, are using AI to monitor and reduce food waste, which recently resulted not only in a 27% cost saving but prevented thousands of kilos of unwanted food going to landfill.”

Microsoft Managing Director Travel Transport & Logistics Industry Julie Shainock said, “We are seeing AI being embraced across the entire travel ecosystem, enhancing the customer and employee experiences and driving more efficiency in operations, but we know we are only at the beginning of the journey.

“We are excited to see what the future holds as AI becomes more widely adopted to automate the more mundane tasks of travel and harness the true spirit of travel to elevate the human experience.”

According to WTTC, AI can revolutionise how businesses in the Travel & Tourism sector operate, offering immense opportunities for growth and innovation.

Both reports underscore the urgent need for Travel and tourism businesses to embrace AI as a strategic priority, invest in talent, and foster collaboration between humans and AI.

But despite the sector’s increasing recognition of AI’s potential, challenges such as AI-skilled workforce shortages in the Travel & Tourism sector persist, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to overcome barriers to adoption.

As AI continues to reshape the world, WTTC remains at the forefront, advocating for safe, ethical, and inclusive AI innovation.

(SOURCE: WTTC)

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The inaugural flight using AirAsia’s Airbus A321neo aircraft departed on Monday from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Terminal 2) at 1410 and landed at Perth International Airport at 1950 local time. AirAsia will initially fly the route daily and plans to double flights to twice daily as passenger traffic grows.

Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group, Bo Lingam said: “Thanks to the addition of the new model A321neo aircraft with longer range capabilities spanning over five hours and numerous operational efficiency, we can make these new services a reality on a narrowbody aircraft from Kuala Lumpur so that more of our guests can travel to Australia affordably.”

Perth is a fan-favourite destination for many Malaysians, attracting travellers from all over the country and beyond for leisure, tourism, education, and visiting family and friends due to its close proximity to Southeast Asia. Malaysia is also Western Australia’s fourth biggest international visitor market, injecting AUD99 million into the WA economy in visitor expenditure for the year ending in September 2023. Conversely, Asia is a top destination for Australians seeking an affordable and culturally diverse experience.

In celebration of its new milestone, AirAsia offers all-in fares from Kuala Lumpur to Perth from only MYR299*, and from Perth to Kuala Lumpur from just AUD166* all-in-one-way. The fare is available for booking starting today until 17 March 2024 for the travel period between now and 30 November 2024.

Flight schedules from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Perth (PER) with AirAsia Malaysia 

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In line with Pandaw’s branding and ship design, The Pandaw Spa will present an understated elegance and indulgent relaxation using locally sourced materials and products.

Trained local therapists will offer a wide range of Asian and international treatments, including massages and facials, allowing you to unwind after the day’s excursions as your riverboat sails the Mekong.

The new look Pandaw Spa will launch in September 2024 aboard all lower Mekong ships, with pre-booking and payment also available for spa services via pandaw.com. 

Bookings are open for lower Mekong cruises and a memorable and rejuvenating experience at the Pandaw Spa.

To book, visit pandaw.com, or contact us at information@pandaw.com 

Download the latest Pandaw brochure.https://www.pandaw.com/brochures?utm_source=pandaw&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=pandaw-spa-feb-2024

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“As one of Malaysia’s most lively leisure destinations and a hub for business travellers, Penang is an ideal destination to welcome a Marriott Hotel,” said Marriott International area vice president – Indonesia and Malaysia, Ramesh Jackson.

The 223-room property prioritises a healthy lifestyle with a fully-equipped 24-hour fitness centre, a steam room and an outdoor infinity swimming pool with a sun deck providing breathtaking views of the Gurney seafront. 

Penang Marriott Hotel also features an M Club premium lounge for members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programme. At the same time, families have access to the Kids Club, providing supervised, age-appropriate activities for younger guests. 

Other features include an all-day dining restaurant, a lounge bar, multi-entertainment spaces, a grand ballroom for meetings and parties, and five flexible function rooms.

The hotel group named Subash Basrur, the complex general manager for three properties: Penang Marriott Hotel, Marriott Executive  Apartments Penang and Marriott Residences Penang.

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Philippines News Agency quoted the tourism chief Christina Frasco saying: “I understand that this is not yet our pre-pandemic numbers of 2019 at over 8.2 million international arrivals, but what I can assure you is that we will push as hard as we can and fully activate government agencies to reach this target.” Tourism chief Christina Frasco said during a reception in Makati City.

During the Makati reception, Frasco noted the country has welcomed 5,069,752 international visitors since January 2023.

“Philippine tourism showed a “remarkable resilience” this year despite being one of the last in Southeast Asia to open up to tourism after the pandemic.”

(Source: PNA)

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Implemented on a trial basis until 30 November 2024, the provision applies to citizens from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. The policy will be implemented on a trial basis. Visa-free entry is available to ordinary passport holders from the six countries visiting China for business, leisure, and transit. The stay is limited to 15 days. 

A Trip.com Group advisory said the move should promote the recovery of the Chinese inbound tourism market. During the first 10 months of 2023, Trip.com said it had recorded a four-digit growth in visitor numbers compared to the same period in 2022. This equates to more than 60% of pre-pandemic levels. 

Data showed that Malaysia and Germany were leading among China’s top 10 sources markets for inbound tourism. Trip.com Group noted that pageviews focusing on flights from Malaysia to China jumped by 48.69% on 24 November, compared to the same day a week earlier.

Long-haul inbound travel to China also shows signs of recovery, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Booking increases are evident elsewhere. For instance, European bookings to China saw a remarkable increase of 663.0% compared to 2022 and a significant growth of 28.9% compared to 2019.

Compared with the rapid recovery of domestic and outbound tourism, the recovery of inbound tourism is relatively slower. According to a report by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, inbound tours received by national travel agencies in the first half of 2023 totalled 477,800, while in the first half of 2019, the tally stood at 8,561,600.

However, inbound tourism is where new opportunities lie, according to Trip.com Group CEO Jane Sun.

“China’s inbound tourism has huge potential, and if it rises to the international median of 1.5% of GDP, it will bring at least RMB1,310 billion in growth earnings.”

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In the first half of 2023, Club Med’s mountain business volume globally increased by 45% year-over-year, with a 30% growth in customers and a 10% increase in average daily rates (ADR) year-over-year. This growth is attributed to Club Med’s recent investments in upgrading its resorts, opening new resorts in Hokkaido, Japan and the French Alps and its focus on internationalising its customer base.

A zoom on total snow holiday bookings for the upcoming winter season reflects a robust 98% growth across East and South Asia and Pacific markets and an ADR growth of 27% compared with pre-pandemic, including new capacity from the opening of Club Med Kiroro Peak, Club Med Kiroro Grand, Club Med Changbaishan, Club Med Tignes and Club Med Val d’Isère. The business volume of APAC markets has increased by 107% compared to winter 2019 and by 22% compared to winter 2019, excluding the new capacity.

Club Med’s success in Japan is a testament to the company’s expertise in delivering exceptional snow mountain holidays. The fourth Club Med resort to open in Hokkaido this December, Club Med Kiroro Grand has achieved near full occupancy 12 weeks ahead of its opening, while the other three Hokkaido resorts continue to show similar levels as well, underscoring the trust guests have in Club Med to deliver outstanding snow holidays.

A recent 2023 Asia Snow Report by Club Med reveals that today’s travellers are seeking a complete, multi-faceted holiday experience, including comfortable accommodation, easy access to the slopes and winter sports expert instruction complemented with the availability of ski equipment rental, delicious cuisine, family-friendly activities, and festive après-ski entertainment. The study also provided valuable data and proof that premium all-inclusive experiences perfectly align with travellers’ needs and desires for a memorable winter vacation. Additionally, Japan tops the chart as the most popular snow holiday destination.

The business tourism sector is showing a strong rebound, and Club Med is benefiting from the recovery, with business volume this coming winter season growing by 13% against 2019 due to Rent-A-Resort bookings. Club Med’s Rent-A-Resort concept allows groups to book an entire resort exclusively for themselves, providing a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience. The brand’s Mountain Resorts are a popular choice for both corporate and social events, thanks to their exceptional locations, world-class facilities, and all-inclusive packages.

“We are thrilled with the strong business growth we have seen in 2023, driven by our mountain resorts and events sector,” said Club Med CEO East, South Asia and Pacific Markets Rachael Harding. “This growth reinforces the unique value proposition and Club Med’s commitment to providing our guests with exceptional experiences. We are confident that our strategy is well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for leisure and MICE travel.” 

Club Med is poised to capitalise on the strong growth of mountain vacations for both leisure and business, thanks to its focus on providing complete holiday experiences that meet the expectations of today’s travellers and its portfolio of Mountain Resorts in some of the world’s most popular winter destinations.

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As the first ship in the NCL fleet to return to Asia in over three years, Norwegian Jewel will offer 16 immersive, port-rich itineraries, visiting 11 countries and sailing from nine different departure ports, including Bangkok (Laem Chabang) Thailand; Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) Malaysia; Singapore; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Bali (Benoa), Indonesia; Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; and for the first time in NCL history Seoul (Incheon), South Korea.  

Cruises range in length from 10 to 14 days with an average of less than two sea days per sailing, inviting guests to enjoy up to 13.5 hours in iconic destinations like Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as well as extended overnight stays in places that come alive at night, such as Phuket, Thailand; Osaka, Japan; and Bali (Benoa), Indonesia. The brand will also make its first calls to Manila, Boracay, Palawan and Salomague, Philippines; Bintan Island, Indonesia; and Hualien, Taiwan.  

“Yesterday was a celebratory moment, as we returned to Asia with Norwegian Jewel’s arrival to Tokyo,” said Norwegian Cruise Line president David Herrera. “We pride ourselves in delivering the best vacation experience and providing endless opportunities for our guests to explore the world…including Asia! This region delivers some of the most intriguing history, cuisine, and culture for travellers to discover, and we are thrilled to deliver a diverse selection of port-rich voyages. This market is important to us, and we are committed to servicing it long-term.”

Firmly underlying the brand’s commitment to Asia, both as a source market and destination, NCL will have a record four ships deployed in the region during the 2024/25 season, providing travellers with unrivalled choice. In addition to Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Spirit, Sun and Sky will also visit the area’s most diverse ports, allowing guests to explore iconic and less-discovered destinations, including Japan, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, Philippines and Malaysia.

Norwegian Sun Debuts in Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific and Asia 

Making its premiere, Norwegian Sun will offer a six-month Asia Pacific season, including 13 exotic itineraries from October 2024 to April 2025, four of which have never been offered before, including three departures from Melbourne, Australia and an Auckland, New Zealand – Bali, Indonesia, sailing in March 2025. Departure ports include Melbourne and Sydney, Australia; Auckland, New Zealand; Honolulu; and Papeete, French Polynesia, with itineraries showcasing the sublime scenery of each bucket-list-worthy destination. 

Norwegian Spirit Returns to Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific and Asia 

After an incredibly successful maiden season, Norwegian Spirit will return to Australian and New Zealand waters for its second consecutive season from December 2023 through March 2024 for a series of popular open-jaw sailings between Sydney and Auckland. It will then sail several repositioning cruises in the South Pacific before returning to the region for a series of 14 Asia voyages during an eight-month season from September 2024 to April 2025, departing from Manila, Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo and Seoul.

Norwegian Sky Sails a Series of Exotic Itineraries in Asia, Asia Pacific and Africa  

Norwegian Sky’s four-month Asian season features seven sailings departing from Manila, Philippines; Singapore; Taipei, Taiwan; Tokyo; and Port Louis, Mauritius between December 2024 and March 2025. Sailings range from 10 to 17 days and include several country-immersive voyages to discover fascinating destinations such as the Philippines and Japan.

For guests looking to immerse themselves in the destination fully, select sailings can also be combined with a three-night/four-day land exploration with one of NCL’s Cruise Tours in Tokyo, Taipei and Singapore.  

For a complete list of NCL’s Asia itineraries, click here. 

For more information about the company’s award-winning 18-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries or to book a cruise, call Hong Kong at +852 800 901 951 and Southeast Asia on +65 3165 1680 or visit www.ncl.com.

About Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 56 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionised the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 400 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize.

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Airlines are pursuing sustainability goals as the industry strives to balance environmental responsibility with commercial interests. There is considerable pressure to expand capacity and launch new routes to meet pent-up travel demand, while the challenge remains to fly sustainably and meet the net-zero goals by 2050.

Alton Aviation Consultancy director Alan Lim discussed these challenges in an interview with TTRW, focusing on the aviation industry’s pursuit of a net-zero goal by 2050.

The sky-high prices of SAF, around three times that of conventional jet fuel due to limited supply, raise questions about the adoption and the level of government support for SAF, especially in Asia. Price sensitivity affects competitiveness and ultimately dampens growth at a time when governments hope for a robust tourism industry to boost foreign exchange earnings. Airports, in a broader context, must also formulate strategic plans for integrating new energy sources and green technologies.

Lim noted that although Asia started implementing sustainability initiatives later than its US and European counterparts, the region is not behind in its commitment to SAF.

“In pursuing the net-zero goal, there is undoubtedly much more work that needs to be done. One of the best ways is to switch to a clean energy source. But based on the current technology, you probably can do it on smaller aircraft of 20 to 50 seats, maybe if you push. But you’re not going to do it on your large commercial planes. That’s not going to happen anytime soon. Also, the adoption of SAF is more limited due to the supply issue. You cannot get enough supply to do it constantly. There is also the fact that it is expensive. 

“It raises the question: Would an airline passenger be prepared to pay 200% to 300% more for a green flight? People may say they would, but they will be drawn to book lower fares. This means airlines need to balance the critical commercial and sustainable factors.”

Government support

Thai Airways International CEO Chai Eamsiri previously called on the Thai government to support SAF costs as the airline aligns with global aviation sustainability goals. 

Speaking at a forum hosted by Thansettakij headlined ‘Road to Net-Zero’, Chai highlighted the potential cost implications, indicating that even a 1% SAF utilisation would lead to a THB1.5 billion annual expense increase, and a 10% utilisation would result in a THB15 billion annual expense increase.

As it is evident that the cost of SAF is tied to its supply, Lam believes government support is crucial in driving the adoption of this initiative, whether through subsidies, mandates, or incentives for airlines.

According to IATA, in 2022, approximately 300 million litres of SAF were produced, accounting for less than 0.1% of the global jet fuel consumption. To achieve the net-zero 2050 target, where SAF is expected to contribute 65%, IATA projects a need for approximately 450 billion litres of SAF by 2050. Achieving this significant increase will require a remarkable annual growth rate in SAF production. Encouraging incentives for SAF research and production will play a crucial role in scaling up production.

Lam points out that there is still a lengthy journey ahead to expand SAF production. Nevertheless, efforts are underway to continue testing SAF with airlines, either planning or adopting SAF purchases alongside their traditional fuel needs.

“It’s about whether we can make the economics of SAF work or find alternative technologies to address the carbon footprint issue. There is undoubtedly much work ahead to achieve this.”

In light of sustainability, it becomes a primary focus in the aviation industry, Lam emphasised. Airports must consider engaging in strategic planning beyond achieving minimal or net-zero carbon footprints.

“They must prepare to integrate new energy sources and technologies, including SAF and more complex innovations such as electric aircraft and electric vehicle infrastructure. In long-term, it is essential to allocate sufficient space and infrastructure to support upcoming developments and ensure a seamless transition to new airport operations,”  he concluded.

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