The post Vietjet inks partnership with Qazaq Air appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Vietjet and Qazaq Air formally signed an agreement for the creation of a new airline brand, Vietjet Qazaqstan.

The parties signed the agreement at the recently held Kazakhstan–Vietnam Business Roundtable.

The event was held in the presence of Vietnamese General Secretary To Lam as part of his state visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance granted a Foreign Investment Registration Certificate to Aviation Holdings, a subsidiary of Vietjet, during the signing.

This authorised its acquisition of a strategic equity stake in Qazaq Air., and this move marks a key milestone in Vietjet’s international expansion strategy and aims to deepen bilateral ties between Vietnam and Kazakhstan across aviation, economic, and cultural domains.

At the same time, the agreement marks a new chapter for the aviation industry in Central Asia.

What happens now?

Under this partnership, the two parties will jointly develop and operate Vietjet Qazaqstan, building on the existing Qazaq Air platform.

As a new-age low-cost airline, Vietjet Qazaqstan is expected to become a strategic air bridge connecting Kazakhstan with Vietnam, Southeast Asia, and global aviation hubs.

The airline will meet the growing travel demand in Kazakhstan while boosting cross-border tourism, trade, and logistics throughout Asia.

Likewise, the new partnership aims to support local socio-economic growth through the creation of thousands of high-quality jobs.

Concurrently, Vietjet Qazaqstan also signed a Customer Services General Terms Agreement with Boeing to support its future Boeing 737 fleet.

Vietjet Qazaqstan is set to operate a fleet of at least 20 Boeing 737 aircraft, enabling a strong expansion of its domestic and international route network.

Under the agreement, Boeing will provide comprehensive services including software solutions, spare parts supply, technical assistance, as well as training programs for pilots and engineers.

The partnership also covers aircraft modifications and upgrades to ensure efficient and safe operations.

Furthermore, the airline will adopt modern operating models, digital management systems, and advanced training programs for its workforce, with ongoing technical and operational support from Vietjet.

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The post Jennifer Catto appointed executive vice-president and chief marketing officer at Sabre appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel technology firm Sabre Corporation recently announced the appointment of Jennifer Catto as its new executive vice-president and chief marketing officer.

As part of Sabre’s Executive Leadership Team, Catto will take an active part in developing the company’s global marketing strategy and brand.

Her work is expected to help drive growth, deepen customer engagement, and position Sabre for the future.

According to Sabre president and CEO Kurt Ekert: “Jennifer’s appointment reflects our commitment to bold, strategic leadership as we accelerate Sabre’s journey to become the premier technology platform in travel. She blends creativity, operational focus, and a deep understanding of digital transformation in a way that is rare to find. With Jennifer’s leadership, we will enhance Sabre’s brand, deepen engagement with our customers and partners, and amplify our differentiated value in the marketplace.”

A wealth of experience

Catto joined Sabre in February of this year, bringing more than 25 years of experience helping companies navigate and accelerate through moments of transformation.

A strategist at heart and a disruptor by nature, she has built and repositioned brands at the intersection of technology and customer needs, leading integrated marketing and growth strategies at Travelport, Telaria, Travelocity, Condé Nast, and SAY.

Throughout her career, Catto championed the use of data-driven insights, bold storytelling and cross-functional collaboration to create new market opportunities and drive lasting relevance for brands in fast-changing industries.

As she puts it: “A brand is a promise you make to the market that the business has to keep. I’m thrilled to take the helm of a great brand for a business that has doubled down on its commitment to innovation and product delivery—keeping its customers at the heart of every solution it pioneers.”

Catto further explained that Sabre has modernised its foundations, something that many companies only talk about.

She said: “Today, it’s a unified, intelligent travel marketplace that prioritizes performance over promises. I’m here to shape a brand that reflects that transformation with precision, one that signals confidence to the market and elevates Sabre’s presence across every channel and customer experience.”

A recognized industry leader, Catto is a Cannes Lions Award nominee, an AdAge Brand Leader Award winner, and a GBTA WINiT Top 50 honouree.

She is also a frequent speaker and commentator for major media outlets and is passionate about redefining how companies engage audiences and build enduring value through innovation.

With Catto’s appointment, Sabre continues to strengthen its leadership team and sharpen its focus on delivering innovative technology solutions that power the future of travel.

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The post Hyatt expands South Asia presence with Grand Hyatt Indore appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hyatt hit a milestone in its ongoing expansion in South Asia with the signing of the Grand Hyatt Indore today, 12th May.

The global hospitality management firm inked an agreement for the new landmark luxury development with Krivish Hospitality Private Limited.

The hotel will be developed on an emerging 11.5-acre site and marks a significant milestone in Hyatt’s continued expansion of its portfolio in high-growth markets.

At the same time, this brings the Grand Hyatt brand to the vibrant city of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India.

In the heart of an emergent city

Strategically located in one of the growing cities, Grand Hyatt Indore will feature 250 well-appointed rooms and suites, five signature food and beverage concepts, and an expansive meetings and events space spanning over 53,000 square feet (5,000 square metres), including a grand 27,986-square-foot (2,600-square-metre) ballroom.

Upon opening, Grand Hyatt Indore will embody the brand’s signature grandeur, exceptional service, and immersive experiences.

As such, it will offer global travellers and local guests a seamless blend of luxury hospitality and world-class business amenities under one roof.

Designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers, the hotel will offer a comprehensive range of recreational amenities, including a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and dedicated entertainment areas for children, teens, and adults.

A game-changer

According to Hyatt vice-president for development in India and Southwest Asia Dhruva Rathore: “We are delighted to announce plans for Grand Hyatt Indore, the economic center of Madhya Pradesh. The signing of Grand Hyatt Indore underscores our commitment to expanding Hyatt’s luxury portfolio in key destinations across India.”

Rathore added that with its exceptional location and world-class amenities, the new hotel will set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Central India.

Likewise, Krivish Hospitality director Sanjay Shukla remarked: “We are thrilled to work with Hyatt to bring the Grand Hyatt brand to Indore. This association reflects our shared vision of delivering world-class hospitality experiences.Grand Hyatt Indore will be a game-changer for the city, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury, comfort, and splendor, while also catering to the growing demand forelevated accommodations.”

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The post Maria Beatriz Sajon is Virtuoso’s new general manager in Continental Europe appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Luxury and experiential travel network Virtuoso recently appointed Maria Beatriz “Bea” Sajon as its new general manager in Continental Europe. 

Sajon’s appointment reinforces Virtuoso’s commitment to investing in the growth of Continental Europe, as she brings a wealth of international experience, strategic acumen and a deep understanding of the Virtuoso network.

She steps into the role as Hanna Hinz exits, and the latter’s leadership played a pivotal role in establishing Continental Europe as a distinct market within Virtuoso’s global structure, laying a strong foundation for future success. 

Sajon will be relocating from Miami to Europe, bringing her closer to the region she now serves as well as her new team. 

This appointment marks an exciting chapter for Virtuoso’s continued global expansion and strengthens its ability to serve members and partners in a rapidly evolving luxury travel landscape.

During the transition, Sajon will continue to oversee the Latin America & Caribbean (LAC) region. 

Senior vice-president for global operations Michael Londregan remarked: “Bea brings not only a global perspective and operational rigor but also the cultural fluency and human connection that are at the core of Virtuoso. Her established record in building success in diverse markets makes her an ideal leader to help Virtuoso realise the potential of the Continental Europe market.”

A strategic appointment 

With Sajon now bringing her strong leadership skills to Continental Europe, Virtuoso looks to accelerate growth across the region by continuing to deepen relationships with the network’s members and partners, strengthening market engagement and driving innovation through tailored regional strategies and solutions. 

She previously served as Virtuoso’s general manager for Latin America and the Caribbean from 2023, heading up one of the organisation’s most established regions. 

During that time, Sajon successfully launched the Regional Preferred Partner Program, which now encompasses 28 companies and serves as a complement to Virtuoso’s Global Preferred Partner Program. 

She introduced Virtuoso, The Book, an annual collectible publication featuring inspirational content and paid placements by world-renowned luxury jewelry and watch brands that wanted to reach influential travellers throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. 

Sajon also elevated member engagement through a roster of events across the region that brought together members and partners through networking and professional development opportunities. 

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The post Waifafo Resort Hoi An adds a Vietnamese touch to MICE appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

For those planning to hold meetings and conferences in Hoi An, Wafaifo Resort Hoi An just unveiled its inspired spaces for meetings and events.

These halls and conference rooms were specifically designed for focus, flow and the connection of people and ideas with a refreshing touch of Vietnamese culture.

Resort commercial director Mikkel Krantz said: “As markets experience rising costs, shifting trade dynamics, and increased caution around business spending, organisations are seeking second-tier city destinations that deliver value without compromise.”

Indeed, Waifafo Resort Hoi An provides a stylish and functional setting for meetings, executive retreats, incentive programmes, creative workshops, weddings, birthdays and anniversaries.

A most flexible venue

The 270 sqm meeting venue can accommodate gatherings of up to 200 guests and can be configured in various formats. The interiors feature natural wood accents, sky-inspired ceiling decor, and wave-patterned flooring, giving the space a contemporary marine feeling.

The meetings facility includes high-speed Wi-Fi and advanced AV capabilities, customised event menus created by the in-house F&B team, a dedicated event concierge, and flexible booking options to meet client needs.

The main ballroom features retractable event screens and moveable partitions. 

Other facilities include two executive boardrooms, one with a full teleconferencing set up.

Where service is the best

Krantz remarked that the same service ethic that has quickly wowed guests and earned the resort five-star reviews, will also define the hotel’s event offering.

He said: “We believe Wafaifo’s inspirational event spaces, can-do service standards, superlative catering, and convenient location with ample car parking will more than satisfy meeting needs.”

At the same time, banquet menus at the resort are thoughtfully designed, creatively matching local ingredients with Vietnamese culinary heritage and international flair. 

According to Krantz: “The amazing culinary sensations created in our kitchen add a real wow factor.”

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The post Crystal’s Treasures of the Tides to set sail in 2028 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global experiential cruise line Crystal officially introduced its most expansive World Cruise yet today, 12th May. 

Bookings to the new Treasures of the Tides voyage officially open to the public on 29th May, and the 150-night journey aboard the Crystal Symphony is also a milestone event as it is the first time since 2018 that the vessel will lead a World Cruise.

Departing in 2028, the Crystal Symphony’s route will cover 84 destinations across 39 countries on six continents, offering a rare opportunity to experience the world in one expertly curated voyage.

Welcome insights

Crystal chairman and brand ambassador Fernando Barroso de Oliveira will be joining the 2028 World Cruise providing his insight and knowledge of the destinations visited. 

Barroso de Oliveira said of the upcoming voyage: “The 2028 World Cruise will be unlike anything we’ve done before, not just in the destinations we’ll be visiting, but in the way we’re curating every moment onboard and ashore. From overnight stays in the world’s most iconic ports to new immersive experiences designed exclusively for Crystal guests, we’re setting a new standard for luxury exploration.”

For his part, Crystal’s vice-president of itinerary planning Mario Parodi pointed out that the cruise line creates journeys that go beyond the itinerary.

According to Parodi: “Treasures of the Tides is a celebration of cultural discovery and marks the first time Crystal Symphony will lead a World Cruise in more than five years. With new destinations like Huahine, Mangalore and Portland alongside iconic global ports, this sailing offers guests the opportunity to explore the world in a way that is intentional and deeply rewarding.”

From Florida to the world

Departing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale on 11th January through 10th June 2028, the itinerary is designed to highlight the cultural richness and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that define each region. 

For those interested, there is an option to disembark in Barcelona on 27th May; likewise, guests will travel from the colourful ports of the Caribbean and the breathtaking coastlines of South America to the remote lagoons of the South Pacific, the capital cities of Southeast Asia and the storied small towns along the Mediterranean. 

Each destination flows naturally into the next, blending landmarks with lesser-known locales that encourage slower, more meaningful exploration. 

Select shore excursions will be curated in partnership with Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal’s sister company and a global leader in immersive travel experiences.

Among the many highlights are first-time calls in Huahine, French Polynesia; Portland, Kangaroo Island, Albany and Geraldton in Australia; along with inaugural visits to Nha Trang, Vietnam and Mangalore, India. 

Throughout the journey, World Cruise guests will be invited to a series of exclusive events, including special celebrations in Lima, Ho Chi Minh City and Dubai, with a spectacular finale.

A month-by-month schedule

• January: After setting sail from Fort Lauderdale, the journey begins in the Western Caribbean and Central America with stops in Cozumel, Belize, Roatán and Cartagena, before transiting the Panama Canal and continuing down South America’s Pacific coast.
• February: French Polynesia takes centre stage with calls in Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea and Bora Bora. Guests then venture to the volcanic landscapes of Pago Pago, the beaches of Fiji and Vanuatu and the calm waters of New Caledonia.
• March: The journey continues through New Zealand’s vineyards and coastal cities, then along Australia’s southern shores. Guests will explore Bali’s cultural landmarks, the beaches of Boracay and the natural landscapes of Sandakan in Borneo.
• April: Travel to Vietnam, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket and India’s Andaman Islands. The itinerary also explores Sri Lanka and India’s west coast, with an overnight in Mumbai.
• May: Sail through Oman and the Red Sea, with stops in Petra via Aqaba and the temples of Luxor via Safaga. The ship then travels Suez Canal into the Mediterranean, visiting Crete, Sicily, Malta, Tunisia and ports along Italy and Spain.
• June: The final leg of the journey crosses the Atlantic with calls in the Azores and Bermuda before returning to Fort Lauderdale.

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The post Asian outbound travel market takes centre stage at Arival 360 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The most recent run of Arival 360 held in Valencia, Spain between 28th and 30th April presented how rapidly evolving demographics and digital behaviors in the Asia-Pacific region are transforming the way travel decisions are made. 

Experts noted that, by the end of this year, Gen Z and Millennials will account for around 50 percent of the region’s travelling public, 70 percent of which make decisions driven by social media.

Also, shifting generational trends and the rise of artificial intelligence also play key roles in the evolution of the regional travel scene.

Industry leaders shared key market insights at the event, expounding on key trends shaping the future of global tourism. 

Wilfred Fan, CCO at Klook Travel Technology, revealed that 84 percent of Klook users are planning long-haul travel in 2025, with Korea emerging as the region’s largest source market. 

Meanwhile, Grace Qi, head of global partnerships and distribution, attractions, and tours at Trip.com, emphasised that France remains the top European destination on their platform, underscoring Europe’s continued appeal among Asian travelers.

Other key findings

In this rapidly transforming landscape, with India leading the region in AI adoption at rates 10 to 15 percent higher than other APAC markets, senior leaders from Klook Travel Technology and Trip.com highlighted during a panel session at Arival’s flagship European event this week, that Europe cannot afford to miss the opportunity to tap into this dynamic, fast-growing market- one that is too significant to overlook.

Recovery from the pandemic was another key central topic of the discussion, as both Trip.com and Klook reported recovery rates of around 90 percent compared to pre-COVID levels, reflecting the resilience and renewed momentum of outbound travel across Asia.

As younger, digitally native travelers shape the next chapter of global tourism, the message that the panelists highlighted for Europe is clear: Asia’s outbound market represents a vital opportunity for growth. 

The increasing role of social media in shaping travel decisions, combined with the steady rebound to nearly pre-COVID levels, underscores that Asia’s outbound market is a crucial driver of future growth. 

This is a market that Europe cannot afford to overlook, as its demographic expansion and resilience make it a powerful force in reshaping the global travel landscape. 

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The post Qatar Airways ensures luxury and sustainability complement each other: Ejetta appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travel Daily Media (TDM): What does luxury travel mean to Qatar Airways, and how do you translate that into the passenger experience for travellers from Thailand? The QSuite has been a game-changer in business class travel. How does this product cater specifically to the preferences and needs of Thai passengers?

Boru Tilahun Ejetta (BTE): Qatar Airways takes great pride in its premium branding and exceptional service, having been recognized as the only airline in the world to win the Skytrax Airline of the Year award eight times and the Skytrax World’s Best Business Class award eleven times. From the moment passengers arrive, Qatar Airways’ Premium Lounge in Bangkok offers a serene retreat before their flight. Designed with modern Arabian aesthetics and infused with Thai hospitality, the lounge provides tranquil views of airport gardens, exclusive amenities by Diptyque, and a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. Our award-winning business class, Qsuite, incorporates many elements typically found in first-class cabins into a business class product. Qsuite delivers an unparalleled experience with private suites, fully lie-flat beds, dine-on-demand service, and customizable cabin configurations to accommodate individual, double, and quad travel needs. It also features a premium amenity kit from the luxury French beauty brand Diptyque and Swiss chocolate from Läderach, ensuring guests can travel in comfort while wearing The White Company loungewear set. Thai passengers can expect a genuinely restful and luxurious experience, enhancing their journey from boarding to arrival. Furthermore, Hamad International Airport (HIA), voted Skytrax World’s Best Airport in 2021, 2022, and 2024, further elevates the travel experience. Elite passengers can unwind in the exclusive Louis Vuitton Lounge, where they can indulge in world-class luxury alongside culinary offerings by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. Flying with Qatar Airways guarantees an exceptional experience at every touchpoint. From our premium lounges and award-winning dining to the luxurious Qsuite and world-class facilities at HIA, Thai passengers can look forward to a seamless and unforgettable journey with us.

Qatar Airways introduces Caviar on select Business Class flights, elevating the onboard experience

TDM: In what ways do you see Starlink Wi-Fi setting a new standard for in-flight connectivity, particularly for passengers travelling between Thailand and global destinations?

BTE: Starlink Wi-Fi is revolutionizing in-flight connectivity by providing ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet, allowing passengers to stay connected at 35,000 feet. With seamless, gate-to-gate access to fast internet, Starlink ensures reliable connectivity even over oceans and remote areas. Best of all, it is free of charge for all passengers! This makes activities like streaming, gaming, and work uninterrupted. As Qatar Airways leads the way with this groundbreaking technology, Thai passengers on select aircraft equipped with Starlink can enjoy a connected, productive, and enjoyable journey, wherever their travels take them.

TDM: Qatar Airways has partnered with Chef Ton, a celebrated Thai chef, to elevate its onboard dining experience. How does this collaboration reflect the airline’s commitment to Thai passengers? Can you elaborate on the caviar service and other gourmet offerings?

BTE: Qatar Airways’ partnership with Chef Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn, a celebrated Thai chef known for his Michelin-starred restaurants Le Du and Nusara, underscores the airline’s commitment to offering a world-class dining experience. Chef Ton has curated a menu featuring Thai-inspired dishes, blending traditional flavors with innovative presentations to enhance the inflight dining experience.

In addition to Chef Ton’s exquisite Thai dishes, Qatar Airways offers an exclusive caviar service, further elevating the dining experience. Passengers in First and Business Class can indulge in premium caviar, served with all the traditional accompaniments, as part of a carefully crafted gourmet menu. The airline’s commitment to high-end dining extends beyond this with a variety of gourmet offerings, including an extensive wine list and on-demand dining, ensuring that every aspect of the culinary experience on board meets the highest standards of luxury and refinement. This collaboration reflects Qatar Airways’ passion for integrating exceptional culinary talent to provide a memorable, luxurious journey for Thai passengers.

TDM: The reopening of the Qatar Airways Premium Lounge in Bangkok has been highly anticipated. What unique features does the lounge offer to Thai passengers?

BTE: Qatar Airways’ Premium Lounge in Bangkok offers Thai passengers an elevated and luxurious pre-flight experience, designed to reflect the airline’s commitment to comfort and exclusivity. Also, the Bangkok Premium Lounge is one of the five self-operated premium lounges Qatar Airways have globally outside of Doha. Located in Suvarnabhumi Airport, the lounge combines modern Arabian aesthetics with the warmth and hospitality of Thailand, providing an inviting atmosphere for all passengers.

One of the standout features of the lounge is its serene ambiance, with tranquil views of the airport gardens. The lounge is thoughtfully designed to create a relaxing environment, allowing passengers to unwind and refresh before their flight.

To further enhance the premium experience, the lounge features exclusive amenities crafted by the renowned French perfumier Diptyque, adding a touch of luxury to every detail. Gourmet dining options are another key highlight of the lounge, it features two expansive dining areas – The Brasserie for a formal dining experience offering a range of international cuisines from an à la carte menu and The Global Deli for a more relaxed buffet-style dining.

The reopening of the Qatar Airways Premium Lounge in Bangkok is a significant step in providing Thai passengers with a truly exceptional and seamless travel experience, blending luxury, comfort, and attentive service in one stunning space.

TDM: Qatar Airways has appointed a Master of Wine to curate its onboard beverage selection. How does this enhance the travel experience for Thai passengers, particularly those with a taste for fine wines?

BTE: Qatar Airways’ appointment of a Master of Wine, Anne Krebiehl, to curate its onboard beverage selection significantly enhances the travel experience for all passengers, including those from Thailand with a refined taste for fine wines. Anne, the appointed Master of Wine, brings valuable expertise in selecting the finest wines, ensuring a premium and thoughtfully curated collection that pairs perfectly with in-flight meals at 35,000 feet.

There are a number of factors that affect the taste of wine in the sky, such as lower humidity and cabin pressure, which temporarily reduce passengers’ capacity to smell and taste intricate flavors. Recognizing these challenges, Qatar Airways carefully selects wines that are able to perform well at high altitudes, ensuring an enjoyable and optimal wine experience despite the unique conditions of the sky.

In recognition of its exceptional wine offerings, Qatar Airways recently won the prestigious “Best Business Class Cellar” award at the 2024 Cellars in the Sky Awards, further solidifying our position as a leader in inflight wine service. This accolade highlights Qatar Airways’ commitment to offering an unparalleled selection of fine wines, handpicked for their quality, character, and versatility. The Master of Wine ensures that each wine complements and works harmoniously with the airline’s world-class food, elevating the overall dining experience for passengers.

Whether Thai passengers are enjoying a gourmet meal, a refreshing aperitif, or a quiet moment of relaxation, they can indulge in wines that cater to every palate, served with the highest level of quality and attention to detail.

TDM: What was the inspiration behind choosing Diptyque, and how does it resonate with the preferences of Thai travellers?

BTE: Qatar Airways’ collaboration with the iconic French perfumer Diptyque for its exclusive amenity kits was driven by a shared commitment to luxury, quality, and exceptional service. Diptyque, renowned for its exquisite fragrances and premium products, was selected to enhance the passenger experience with a touch of refinement. The luxurious amenity kits, featuring Diptyque’s high-end toiletries such as perfumes, hand creams, and body balms, offer passengers an elevated in-flight experience, adding a layer of sophistication and indulgence.

For Thai travelers, the choice of Diptyque resonates deeply with their appreciation for high-quality, premium products and luxury experiences. Thai culture places a strong emphasis on fine craftsmanship and attention to detail, and Diptyque’s reputation for creating beautifully crafted, sensory-rich products aligns with these values. This partnership reflects Qatar Airways’ dedication to providing an exceptional experience tailored to the preferences of its passengers, ensuring that each aspect of the journey, from luxurious amenities to attentive onboard service, meets the highest standards of air travel.

TDM: As luxury travel evolves, how is Qatar Airways balancing opulence with sustainability, and what role do Thai passengers play in this journey?

BTE: As luxury travel evolves, Qatar Airways is committed to reducing its environmental footprint while offering world-class service.

We have invested in a fleet of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft that minimize carbon emissions, and we are pioneers in using Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), with a target of 10% SAF fuel by 2030, alongside a robust fuel optimization strategy. Eco-friendly practices, such as introducing lightweight PET wine bottles and reducing up to 80% of single-use plastics in Quisine meal servings, ensure that luxury and sustainability complement each other.

For Thai passengers, who are increasingly mindful of sustainability in their travel choices, Qatar Airways offers the Voluntary Carbon Offset Program, which allows passengers to contribute to renewable energy projects. They can opt-in while purchasing their tickets online.

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The post Vietjet releases Q1-2025 financials appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company reported a 24 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase in consolidated profit for Q1 2025, driven by strong international expansion and operational excellence, reinforcing the airline’s leadership in regional connectivity. 

The airline will soon operate direct flights between Singapore and Phu Quoc by the end of May, adding to the services from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. 

This new route adds to, increasing the total number of weekly single-leg flights between Vietnam and Singapore to 78. 

According to its Q1 2025 financial statements, Vietjet reported air revenue of VND17.92 trillion, with a pre-tax profit of VND820 billion, marking a 25 percent increase YoY. 

Consolidated revenue totalled VND17.952 trillion while pre-tax profit was of VND836 billion, up 24 percent YoY.

Ancillary revenue reached over VND6.223 trillion in Q1 2025, accounting for more than 35% of Vietjet’s total revenue.

As of 31st March, Vietjet’s total assets reached VND98.766 trillion, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.12 and a liquidity ratio of 1.5, maintaining a safe level within the aviation industry. 

A busy first quarter

In the first three months of 2025, Vietjet operated nearly 38,700 flights and transported over 6.87 million passengers, representing YoY growth of more than 12 percent and nine percent, respectively. 

The airline operated a total of 137 routes, including 40 domestic and 97 international routes.

In Q1-2025, Vietjet added two new aircraft, expanding its fleet to 106 of the most modern aircraft in the region. 

The airline reported strong operational metrics with a seat load factor of 87 percent and a technical reliability rate of 99.72 percent.  

Vietjet also introduced four new international routes connecting Vietnam’s Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with major cities in China (Beijing, Guangzhou) and India (Bengaluru, Hyderabad), further strengthening connectivity and expanding growth opportunities in key Asian markets. 

Additionally, the airline announced two upcoming direct routes: Phu Quoc—Singapore, set to launch on 30 May 2025, and Ho Chi Minh City—Auckland (New Zealand), expected to begin in September 2025.

Highlights from the quarter

Vietjet began 2025 with its inaugural flight to the United States, leading to strategic partnership discussions with key partners worth US$14 billion. 

Combined with existing deals with its longstanding partners such as Boeing, GE, Pratt & Whitney, and others, Vietjet’s total cooperation value now approaches US$50 billion. 

The airline also signed a US$300 million aircraft financing agreement with Carlyle Aviation Partners.

Beyond business performance, Vietjet delivered over 60 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Myanmar and partnered with a leading bank to construct 500 homes for low-income families in Vietnam. 

On the innovation and service front, Vietjet’s SkyJoy loyalty program won “Best Use of Digital Technology” at the 2025 Asia Pacific Loyalty Awards. 

The airline also received three global HR excellence awards and was named “World’s Best Ultra Low-Cost Carrier 2025” and one of the world’s safest airlines by AirlineRatings.

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The post ATIA highlights the contribution of travel businesses on Global Travel Advisor Day appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As Global Travel Advisor Day will be marked tomorrow, 7th May, the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) will use the occasion to highlight the critical contribution of accredited travel businesses and their incredible staff to the nation.

Travel advisors act every day to ensure safer, smarter travel for millions of Australians, and ATIA champions their value as trusted professionals in a vital industry.

ATIA chief executive Dean Long declared: “Global Travel Advisor Day is a powerful reminder of the critical role our members play in supporting Australians before, during and after they travel. ATIA is proud to champion accredited travel businesses every day and ensure their value is recognised across government, industry and the public. As the travel environment grows more complex, our focus remains on strengthening the visibility, capability and influence of Australia’s travel professionals.”

Advisors are the heart of the industry

As Long puts it: “We are in the golden age of travel professionals, as more Australians, many of whom were burnt by COVID-travel experiences, turn to expert advisors for complex travel needs and crisis support.”

At the heart of each ATIA accredited business are the team members that make each travel experience, delivering trusted, expert advice to millions of Australians. 

Whether guiding complex international itineraries, navigating flight disruptions, managing documentation, or providing emergency assistance abroad, travel advisors are proving more essential than ever. As the industry evolves, so too does the role of accredited travel professionals – now central to delivering smarter, safer, and more personalised travel.

This demand is reflected in robust booking volumes. In 2024, ATIA members booked $13.5 billion in retail travel, $11.8 billion in corporate travel, and $5.6 billion in land operations. 

More than 70 percent of international air sales and over 90 percent of corporate travel bookings are made through agents, with Australians increasingly turning to trusted professionals for peace of mind and expert support.

ATIA continues to lead efforts to raise the visibility, value and viability of accredited travel advisors across government, industry and the travelling public. 

Through sustained advocacy, workforce development initiatives, and public awareness campaigns, the Association is ensuring that the policy, funding and regulatory environment enables its members to thrive. 

With 92 percent of members being small businesses and 72 percent of the workforce made up of women, ATIA’s membership reflects one of Australia’s most diverse, innovative and customer-focused sectors.

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