Airlines and airports identify ‘brand damage’ and ‘increased costs’ as the primary consequences of ongoing disruptions, urging the need for improved integrated systems and collaborative platform technology for a more effective response. Recent data from industry provider Infare reveals that flight disruption, marked by schedule changes, remains at a staggering 300% above historical norms. This persistent challenge stems from the aviation industry contending with a shortage of skilled personnel and the resurgence of global air travel demand. In light of this scenario, Amadeus, a leading travel technology company, has initiated a comprehensive study titled ‘Better together: Rethinking how to…
Author: Nishtha Ganesh
The Indian government has unveiled an INR 3,600 crore blueprint for upgrading the infrastructure of the Lakshadweep islands, aiming to elevate them into a premier tourist destination, according to a government official cited by the Economic Times. The ambitious plan encompasses the enhancement of port facilities, peripheral roads, beachfront amenities, and other critical infrastructure projects. Key features of the initiative include the development of port facilities on Androth, Kalpeni, and Kadamat islands. It also involves the construction of beachfronts and peripheral roads in strategic locations such as Kadamat Island (East), Agatti Island (East), and Kavaratti Island. These efforts are…
MLA Shailesh Mehta, inquiring about the Prime Minister’s 2018 declaration regarding the development of multiple airports, has received confirmation that an airport will be constructed 12 kilometers from Kevadia. This decision stems from the popularity of the Statue of Unity (SoU), which has drawn in over 1 crore tourists since its inauguration. Kevadia is not the sole destination poised for growth. Airports are in the planning stages for Ferkuwa and Surova in Tilakwada, as well as Siddhapur and Vadnagar. Pre-feasibility studies are currently underway in these locations, laying the groundwork for improved connectivity and increased tourism potential. “This initiative…
SITA’s Air Transport IT Insights report for 2023, released today, reveals a year-on-year increase in IT spending for both airports and airlines, reaching an estimated USD 10.8 billion and USD 34.5 billion, respectively, with more than two-thirds of airport and airline CIOs anticipating continued growth into 2024. In 2022 and 2023, airports elevated IT spending as a percentage of revenue, emphasising the pivotal role technology will play in the future of travel. Key investment priorities for aviation CIOs include implementing a biometrically enabled passenger journey, leveraging data for operational efficiencies, and adopting green solutions to optimise energy consumption and…
Cleartrip, a subsidiary of Flipkart, is aiming to establish itself as a key player in the corporate travel arena with the introduction of its latest corporate travel management product, ‘Out of Office’ (OOO). This tool is designed to empower businesses of all sizes, with approximately 300 SMEs and around 10 large enterprises actively using the platform. OOO processes a monthly business volume of INR 20 Crore, showcasing its impact in the corporate travel sector. The platform’s adaptable architecture and user-friendly interface allow seamless configuration to meet the distinct requirements of both large enterprises and SME clients. Early adopters of…
Accor is recognising the efforts of event planners by introducing its groundbreaking ‘The Choice is Yours’ offer. Open to all Accor Live Limitless and Accor Plus members organising social celebrations, weddings, business meetings, or conferences at any Accor hotel in India, this offer is tailored to provide planners with a range of value-added benefits to align with their event specifications and financial considerations. For eligible planners securing an event reservation until December 31, 2024, a substantial up to 30% deduction on the master bill awaits. Additionally, planners can opt for either a complimentary upgrade to the next higher category…
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has unveiled the Executive Summary report detailing its latest projections for international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across Asia Pacific. The report indicates robust annual growth in numbers for 2024, with this momentum expected to continue through 2026. Asia is projected to dominate as a supplier region of IVAs, making a substantial comeback by contributing more than 58% of all IVAs into Asia Pacific in 2024 under each of the three scenarios. America and Europe are expected to follow with shares of approximately 19% and 14%, respectively, during the same year. Anticipated outcomes suggest that,…
In a strategic initiative to strengthen its footprint in the Indian aviation market, SriLankan Airlines has officially relocated its Mumbai office to a more spacious setting, marking the commencement of ambitious expansion plans for 2024. To commemorate this, the airline hosted a lunch event for its trade partners in Mumbai. This relocation signifies the airline’s dedication to augmenting its network operations in India and promoting increased tourism between the two nations. As a part of its growth strategy, SriLankan Airlines envisions a substantial expansion in its route network within India, facilitating connectivity and introducing services to enhance the overall…
Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and Amaala, has appointed Sébastien Carre as Group Head of Hospitality. In this crucial role, Carre will lead the hospitality function for all RSG destinations and self-operated properties, aiming to enhance Saudi Arabia’s global tourism standing. With over 30 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Sébastien Carre, a VATEL Hospitality & Tourism Business School graduate, has held prominent leadership roles across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, and Pacific Islands. His diverse experience showcases his ability to lead effectively in various markets.…
In the midst of a diplomatic dispute between the Maldives and India, official figures released on Monday reveal that Chinese tourists have surpassed Indian visitors to become the leading tourism market for the archipelago nation. According to the Maldivian Ministry of Tourism statistics as of February 4, China now holds the top position with 23,972 tourists, constituting an 11.2% market share in 2024. This marks a significant rise from its third-place position in 2023. India, which held the top spot in 2023, has slipped to the fifth position as of Sunday, with 16,536 tourists and a 7.7% market share…
