The post Blackout in Bali  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A power outage hit several regions of Indonesia’s resort island of Bali on Friday.  State utility Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) said all efforts were being  made to restore services to those affected. Power returned to most affected areas.

Bali is Indonesia’s main tourist hotspot, with 6.3 million foreign visitors last year, according to the island’s statistics bureau. The island’s airport was also impacted but inbound and outbound flight traffic continued using backup generators.

State utility PLN said it was investigating the cause of the outage and working on restoring the power connection.  Images shared on social media showed road traffic holdups in Bali as a result of the outage and long lines at the airport check-in counters.

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The post Amex GBT and Delta Air Lines reinforce long-term partnership appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) and Delta Air Lines have announced an extension of their long-term strategic partnership. This multi-year extended partnership reinforces the strategic alignment between the two companies to provide enhanced value, seamless travel experiences and cutting-edge NDC solutions for corporate customers and travelers, through access to Delta Air Lines content and Amex GBT’s industry-leading travel marketplace. The agreement also covers access to the content of Delta Air Lines’ joint venture partners Aeromexico, LATAM Airlines, Korean Air, Virgin Atlantic, Air France and KLM.

Rajiv Ahluwalia, Chief Revenue Officer at Amex GBT, said: “This partnership allows us to reimagine the corporate travel experience. It reinforces our mission to deliver maximum choice, value and experiences to corporate customers and travelers – by providing access within our marketplace to the most comprehensive and competitive content from the world’s best travel suppliers, through innovative shopping displays and offers.”

“Delta has a long history of partnership with Amex GBT and the TMC community, that underscores our commitment to delivering unparalleled service and innovative solutions for our corporate customers,” said Bob Somers, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Delta. “Together, we are poised to build on this partnership to further define corporate travel excellence with seamless access to Delta’s premium products and services.”

The agreement strengthens alignment between the companies’ operations, sales and marketing teams, to transform customer service. Travelers will be able choose from Delta’s range of branded fares when shopping and booking, seamlessly in one display in Amex GBT’s booking channels. Amex GBT and Delta will continue working together to roll out NDC via the GDSs to provide even better shopping and servicing experiences, at scale.

This partnership amplifies the companies’ combined commitment to providing corporate customers with the most compelling travel content, delivered through modern retailing capabilities.

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The post Philippine Airlines to explore codeshare agreement with Alaska Airlines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced it will be exploring a codeshare agreement with Seattle-based Alaska Airlines as of Friday, 2nd May.

The potential codeshare arrangements are expected to cover key cities in both airlines’ networks, further enhancing connectivity and offering travelers more convenient options in flying between the Philippines and the United States.

Per an official statement: “Philippine Airlines and Alaska Airlines offer easy connections through PAL’s US West Coast gateways, namely Seattle, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, as well as via Honolulu. PAL passengers will gain greater access to a wide range of US destinations that are part of Alaska Airlines’ extensive domestic network.”

Redeeming miles on two networks

Exploring the codeshare deal comes as both carriers inked a partnership that will soon allow their passengers to fully avail of their respective loyalty programmes

The PAL-Alaska Airlines collaboration will soon allow members of both airlines’ loyalty programmes to earn and redeem miles across each other’s networks, providing greater flexibility and rewards for travelers when the tie-up takes effect in the coming months.

PAL vice-president for marketing Alvin Miranda said of this: “We are proud to partner with Alaska Airlines to deliver even greater value to our Mabuhay Miles members. This strategic collaboration significantly expands our network and flight options, enabling our Mabuhay Miles members to enjoy enhanced connectivity and flexibility in how and where they use their miles.”

For his part, Alaska Airlines’ chief commercial officer Andrew Harrison remarked that PAL is a terrific addition to its roster of global airlines offering world-class service and amenities.

Harrison said: “The large Filipino communities living in Hawaii, California and Washington state can travel on Philippine Airlines’ long-haul, widebody aircraft and soon earn valuable Mileage Plan miles on their transpacific journeys.”

The frequent flyer collaboration will also enhance the existing partnership between PAL and Hawaiian Airlines, another member of the Alaska Airlines Group.

In addition to PAL continuing to offer Hawaiian codeshare flights to Maui, Hilo, Kona, and Lihue via Honolulu, Hawaiian Airlines flyers will soon be able to earn and redeem miles on Philippine Airlines when they use their Mileage Plan number. 

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The post Malaysia Airlines signs several agreements to expand global reach appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Malaysia Airlines announced the recent signing of three strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with key global trade partners.

These were the Air Promotion Group (APG), Student Universe, and Advanced Travel Partners International (ATPI), and the agreements are part of the airline’s ongoing efforts to enhance market reach, deliver greater value to its diverse customer base, and strengthen its global distribution and commercial presence.

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) chief commercial officer Dersenish Aresandiran remarked: “These partnerships reflect Malaysia Airlines’ strategic ambition to deepen our reach across multiple customer segments and geographies. Whether it’s extending our content to offline markets, creating added value for students, or enhancing our marine segment capabilities, we are focused on providing seamless, value-driven experiences for travellers worldwide. We look forward to working closely with our partners to unlock new opportunities and deliver mutual growth.”

APG: boosting reach and content delivery in offline markets

Malaysia Airlines is poised to strengthen its global distribution strategy through a strategic partnership with APG, the world’s largest and most successful airline representation network. 

By joining the APG Platform, APG’s NDC (New Distribution Capability) portal, the airline will expand its presence in offline markets and unlock wider access to its complete NDC content.

Leveraging APG’s network in over 150 countries, Malaysia Airlines will expand its reach to travel agents globally, driving revenue growth and strengthening its presence in offline markets. 

The APG Platform also enables cost-effective distribution of enriched content such as dynamic offers and bundled fares whilst giving agents access to a wider travel portfolio, including hotels and car rentals.

StudentUniverse: considering the student traveller market

Malaysia Airlines and StudentUniverse have significantly strengthened their strategic alliance, expanding its global footprint and officially designating Malaysia Airlines as one of its Global Airline partners. 

This underscores its commitment to the student travel market by offering exclusive fares, discounts, and value packages. 

As the world’s leading student travel platform, StudentUniverse will feature Malaysia Airlines as its preferred partner, boosting brand visibility and providing full marketing support. 

This collaboration combines both brands’ strengths to deliver top-tier, tailored travel options while promoting cultural exchange and accessible travel for the next generation of global explorers.

Since its initial collaboration in 2024, StudentUniverse has significantly contributed to student segment revenue growth, particularly in key markets such as Australia and New Zealand. 

To date, the platform has generated substantial revenue, with significant contributions from student movements in Australia, the UK, and the US.

ATPI: a keener focus on the marine travel segment

The MoU with ATPI designates them as Malaysia Airlines’ preferred marine travel partner from 1st May 2025 to 30th April 2026. 

This strategic partnership will focus on jointly promoting Malaysia Airlines’ flights to the marine and energy sectors, leveraging ATPI’s global reach and specialised expertise in the marine travel market.
By leveraging ATPI’s industry insights and global footprint, Malaysia Airlines aims to enhance its appeal and accessibility to key marine hubs and routes, positioning itself as a preferred airline for companies and professionals operating in these vital industries. 

The partnership also reflects Malaysia Airlines’ broader strategy to tap into niche travel markets and drive sustainable growth through targeted commercial collaborations.

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The post ATM 2025 sees 55,000+ attendees, with 16% YOY growth appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has welcomed more than 55,000 industry professionals from 166 countries, representing a 16% increase on last year’s edition. The event has showcased over 2,800 exhibiting companies, with 19% from the Middle East and 81% from the rest of the world.

Organised by RX Global, ATM 2025 was based on the theme of “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,” exploring how the future of tourism will be shaped by connectivity across borders, industries and communities. The theme was a central element throughout the event, which ran from 28 April to 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the United Arab Emirates and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, visited the exhibition and received an overview of this year’s key themes and innovations.

Throughout the course of the four-day event, several prominent dignitaries and VIPs attended ATM 2025, including  Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, who officially inaugurated the event, while Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, explored the show floor and was presented with highlights of the 2025 edition.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “My colleagues at RX Global and I are proud to have welcomed a vibrant and engaged community of travel professionals to ATM 2025. This year’s theme has resonated strongly throughout the show floor, emphasising how collaboration across borders and sectors creates new opportunities for inclusive and resilient tourism growth. The outstanding turnout and record-breaking number of exhibitors are clear indicators of ATM’s crucial role in shaping the future of global tourism and connectivity.”

Growth has been observed across all show verticals, with regional year-on-year increases in the following areas: the Middle East (19%), Asia (20%), Europe (17%), and Africa (21%). Notably, Asia is the fastest-growing region at ATM 2025, with exhibitor participation rising an impressive 20% year-on-year. This growth has been fueled by enhanced regional connectivity and strengthened relationships with international markets.

Outside of the UAE and wider GCC markets, the top ten registered international markets for ATM 2025 are as follows: India (6%), Türkiye (3.2%), United Kingdom (3%), Egypt (3%), United States (2%), China (1.5%), Sri Lanka (1%), Spain (1%), Maldives (1%) and Pakistan (1%).

ATM Travel Tech has grown by over 26% this year, reflecting the sector’s increasing integration with technology. A newly launched Start-Up and Innovation Zone showcased 21 groundbreaking companies redefining travel and an immersive VR experience for visitors to explore transformative solutions in the industry.

The hotel segment at ATM 2025 has experienced a 12% year-on-year growth, with all major international hotel chains represented, while the ATM Conference featured over 70 sessions and showcased insights from more than 200 esteemed speakers on the Global Stage, Future Stage, and the new Business Events Stage, which is part of IBTM@ATM.

The IBTM@ATM event was officially launched, a dedicated zone for business event professionals. It featured insights from prominent organisations such as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), and the World Energy Council, along with contributions from tourism and event industry leaders from around the globe.

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The post The Farm at San Benito to become an Autograph Collection resort appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marriott International Inc and CG Hospitality recently signed an agreement to convert the renowned Philippine wellness resort The Farm at San Benito into the Philippines’ first-ever Autograph Collection property by Q3-2025.

Marriott International Asia-Pacific president Rajeev Menon expressed his excitement over the collaboration with CG Hospitality which will expand the Marriott footprint in Southeast Asia.

Menon said: “With wellness emerging as a key driver of travel decisions, this is a timely and strategic entry for us. The Philippines, with its rich natural beauty and growing reputation as a rejuvenating destination, offers the ideal setting for the Autograph Collection and underscores our continued commitment to bringing differentiated experiences to new markets across the region.

For his part, CG Corp Global chair Dr Binod Chaudhary pointed out that his company has always believed in nurturing destinations that leave a lasting impact.

As such, Chaudhary pointed out that: “The Farm at San Benito has long been a jewel in our portfolio: a sanctuary where nature, wellness, and heartfelt hospitality come together. Our strategic partnership with Marriott International to bring The Farm at San Benito into the Autograph Collection family reflects our commitment to creating experiences that are both timeless and transformative. By joining hands, we are taking this vision global, introducing the Philippines’ first Autograph Collection property, and setting a new benchmark for wellness hospitality in the region.”

Where wellness comes first

Occupying 52 hectares of lush greenery, The Farm at San Benito, Autograph Collection is a wellness destination rooted in transformation and personal growth. 

The property’s philosophy centres on nurturing personal growth through holistic care where nutrition, movement, integrated medicine, and mindful living intersect to support each guest’s evolving journey towards long-term wellbeing.

Located in a suburb of Lipa City, Batangas, 90 minutes south of Metro Manila, the 70-key property is expected to feature one-bedroom villas and exclusive two- and four-bedroom private pool villas.

The resort will also feature a swimming pool with a pool bar, a fully equipped fitness centre, a tranquil spa, and a medical wellness centre to set a benchmark for next-generation wellness hospitality in the region. 

Guests can look forward to a bespoke culinary journey across five dining venues, a lobby lounge, and two additional bars.

The Farm at San Benito, Autograph Collection’s strategic location likewise offers convenient access for both leisure seekers and corporate guests, meeting the rising demand for restorative escapes from Manila and beyond. 

The resort will also cater to business and social gatherings anticipated to feature 321 sqm of flexible meeting and event space, complete with natural light.

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The post AirAsia scores 10/10 in 42kft.com’s global sustainability rankings appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AirAsia scored a straight 10 out of 10 score in the aviation industry’s first comprehensive, data-driven sustainability audit conducted by 42kft.com.

Recognised among only 25 top-performing carriers out of 142 airlines evaluated worldwide, AirAsia’s achievement underscores its leadership in sustainable aviation.  

Conducted by a platform founded by aviation industry specialists, the rigorous assessment evaluates airlines on the basis of nine criteria. 

These include fleet modernisation, adoption of cutting-edge technologies, implementation of fuel efficiency innovations, investment in next generation fuel sources, carbon offsetting initiatives, and transparent sustainability reporting. 

Beyond mere pledges

42kft.com chief executive Geoffrey Thomas lauded  AirAsia’s performance in the audit.

Thomas said:  “AirAsia’s standout performance reflects its sweeping commitment to sustainability across fleet renewal, alternative fuels, waste reduction and more. The AirAsia Group scores exceptionally well across every environmental metric. It is without doubt one of the global leaders in eco-conscious aviation.” 

With regard to the significance of the audit, Thomas explained that the assessment goes beyond vague climate pledges to measure real-world action. 

He said: “Pledges such as ‘Net Zero by 2050’ are considered baseline expectations, not distinguishing factors. With these rankings, we are honouring real, measurable commitments to reducing carbon emissions.”

AirAsia’s chief sustainability officer Yap Mun Ching expressed the airline’s gratitude for the recognition by saying: “This accolade validates the breadth of our sustainability efforts, acknowledging not just our achievements but also the unique challenges we navigate in our region. From adapting to diverse regulatory frameworks to balancing global standards with local realities, our approach has been both strategic and inclusive.” 

Yap further highlighted AirAsia’s leadership role in shaping sustainable aviation policy, including chairing Malaysia’s National Task Force on Carbon Offset and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and serving as a technical expert on the International Civil Aviation Organization’s working group on CORSIA.  

She said: “We actively engage stakeholders across the transport and environmental sectors to align industry practices with climate goals. On the global stage, we advocate for regional perspectives in multilateral forums to ensure equitable and effective sustainability policies.”

Findings from the 2024 sustainability report

The 42kft.com announcement coincides with the release of the Capital A’s Sustainability Report 2024, detailing AirAsia’s strides in reducing its environmental footprint.

Key highlights include: 

• Record-low carbon intensities: Emissions per seat (gCO2/ASK) fell to 63.7 and emissions per passenger (gCO2/RPK) to 72.3, achieved through more than 20 operational efficiency measures that avoided 129,189 tonnes of CO2 and saved US$34 million in fuel costs. 
• Ground operations innovation: AirAsia deployed its first four combo units (integrated ground power and air conditioning system) at KLIA2, reducing the need for aircraft engines to power parked planes. Upon full rollout, these units are projected to cut 1% of AirAsia’s CO2 emissions. 
• Strategic partnerships: Collaborating with Airbus, AirAsia is advancing sustainable aviation research in Asean, specifically into alternative sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) feedstock development and innovative air traffic management solutions. AirAsia also joined Heart Aerospace’s Industry Advisory Board to support commercialisation of hybrid-electric aircraft.

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The post Create unforgettable memories with The Ghan Experience from Outback SA to Tasting Australia at Town Square appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Journey Beyond, Australia’s experiential tourism group and presenting partner for Tasting Australia invites curious foodies to get a taste of Australia by Train with The Ghan Experience at the festivals hub – Town Square (Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga).

Visitors to Town Square can escape the hustle and bustle and transport themselves to the outback with The Ghan Experience. Throughout Tasting Australia, The Ghan Experience is an opportunity to showcase Journey Beyond’s commitment to going further and taking travellers beyond.

Mesmerising experience aboard The Ghan

As guests step inside the train carriage-themed activation, they’ll be whisked away to life onboard the icon of the Outback. Visitors will be immersed in a sensory experience with the sights, sounds, and scents of this famed journey, capturing what the experience aboard The Ghan is all about. On board, guests will gain an insight into the incredible Off-Train Experiences on offer, including the majestic arid scenery of Outback SA, a spectacular sunrise in Marla, the unique charm of opal mining town Cooper Pedy, or the breathtaking Kanku Breakaways, and much more. This first-person perspective evokes the thrill and wonder of embarking on this remarkable adventure for the very first time.

A visit to Town Square would not be complete without a visit to the Journey Beyond Lounge with views across Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga, VIP vibes and plenty of room to relax, sit back with a refreshing beverage and soak in the sights, sounds and aroma’s of the bustling Town Square.

While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to chat with the knowledgeable staff from the Journey Beyond travel centre. They can guide you through one of Journey Beyond’s extraordinary experiential travel journeys across Australia, whether its an unforgettable trip on The Ghan, Indian Pacific, or Great Southern.  Or find your Outback Spirit with a six day ‘Lake Eyre and Flinders Ranges Spectacular’ tour taking in the beautiful outback enigma Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre as it floods or stay wild at Monarto Safari Resort.

Be inspired to book your next incredible Journey Beyond adventure today and discover the diverse beauty of Australia with exclusive offers for bookings made at the Journey Beyond lounge.

Incredible Journey Beyond adventure

David Donald, Executive General Manager of Rail at Journey Beyond says, “Central to all Journey Beyond experiences is our passion and commitment to taking guests beyond the ordinary and creating unforgettable moments.”

“On board our iconic trains The Ghan, Indian Pacific, and Great Southern, our commitment to exceptional food and wine experiences elevate the travel journey. Onboard guests are treated to multi-course meals crafted by talented onboard chefs. These culinary offerings celebrate the rich diversity of Australia’s seasonal regional produce, creating a unique dining experience that highlights local flavours and ingredients specific to the region the trains traverse.” Donald added. Justine Lally Executive General Manager Marketing at Journey Beyond says, “We invite you to explore The Ghan Experience at Town Square, showcasing the extraordinary experiences and sensory delights Journey Beyond offers our guests throughout the year. Following your visit, be sure to stop by the Journey Beyond lounge, where our exceptional travel centre team can assist you in planning and booking your next adventure aboard The Ghan.”

Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond runs for 10 days from Friday 2 – Sunday 11 May across Adelaide and regional South Australia.

To celebrate Journey Beyond’s partnership with Tasting Australia, exclusive offers will be available for Guests who book at the Journey Beyond Lounge.  Bookings made on The Ghan or Great Southern will receive a free upgrade to Gold Premium when booking Gold Twin for travel in 2026.

Monarto Safari Resort is offering 15% discount on 2025 stays, and Outback Spirit has $500 off best available rates online.

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The post ANA HOLDINGS invests in Otetsutabi appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ANA HOLDINGS INC through its corporate venture capital (CVC)  fund “ANA Future Frontier Fund L.P.,”  announced its investment in Otetsutabi, Inc（Otetsutabi), a short-term job matching platform for rural area travellers.

Otetsutabi is a unique human resource matching service that combines short-term, part-time work  opportunities with travel experiences. The platform connects local businesses facing labor shortages  with travelers seeking to explore new places while earning income.

Since its launch in January 2019, Otetsutabi has grown significantly, now offering over 1,900  workplaces nationwide to more than 70,000 registered users. This success has positioned Otetsutabi  as a leader in the local spot work market. With increasing demand from Gen Z and seniors looking  for a second career, Otetsutabi anticipates further revitalization of local economies and stronger connections between local communities and non-residents. The company plans to use this latest  round of funding to accelerate customer acquisition, enhance product improvement and expand  recruitment.

ANA HD’s investment in Otetsutabi reflects its strong belief in the platform’s potential to drive  regional development and create new business opportunities. ANA HD also recognizes Otetsutabi’s robust regional network, its ability to attract participants interested in local areas and its compelling  branding. Through this investment, ANA HD will actively support Otetsutabi’s ongoing business  growth and expansion.

Further information about ANA HD’s “ANA Future Frontier Fund L.P.” and its investments can be  found on ANA’s website.

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