The post ‘Why Travel?’ reveals Top five Trends on Consumer Travel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Food as the destination. Sweat-and-spa escapes. Tech-enhanced experiences. Travellers are rewriting the rulebook on why they travel, opting for meaning over mileage, and experiences over rote itineraries. Trip.com Group and Google explore this shift in Why Travel?, a new global consumer report that examines the intersection of purpose, people and place in travel.

By combining Trip.com Group’s global booking intelligence and proprietary booking data with Google’s research and search insights, the report uncovers how travellers are seeking deeper purpose and richer connections through culture, community, and technology to create more experience-focused journeys in 2026 and beyond.

The Why Travel? report highlights five key themes that are shaping tomorrow’s journeys: Travel as Expression (where identity and aesthetics drive choices), Travel with Purpose (where curiosity and meaning replace cookie-cutter itineraries), Travel to Heal (where wellness and restoration become the agenda), Travel to Connect (where music, sport, and multigenerational moments bring people together), and Travel of Tomorrow (where artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive technologies redefine inspiration and discovery).

Key Insights from the Why Travel? Report 

1. Travel as Expression: Globally, travellers are increasingly indulging in fork-first travel, with Google searches for “food travel” and “Michelin guide” growing by 18% and 22% respectively, and food-related bookings on Trip.com up by 43% year-on-year (YoY) in the first half of 2025. The report also revealed that Singapore is among the top three destinations for food-related experiences alongside Mainland China and Thailand, as well as one of the top four source markets where foodie travellers hail from.
2. Travel with Purpose: Travellers are also increasingly exchanging cookie-cutter itineraries for experiences that cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and exploration. For instance, Google searches for “Japanese tea ceremonies” showed a 53%  YoY increase in the first half of 2025, demonstrating the power of unique experiences in meeting travellers’ desire for inspiration and discovery.
3. Travel to Heal: Instead of simply going for the occasional massage or yoga class, travellers are now going on wellness trips that prioritise healing, movement and restoration. According to Google Trends, global searches for “spa destination experiences” and “all-inclusive spa” grew by 140% and 250% respectively. In particular, searches for “onsens” in Singapore grew by 80% YoY, showing that Japanese soakcations are rising in popularity among Singaporean travellers.
4. Travel to Connect: Travel is increasingly becoming an important means for friends, families and fan communities to connect over shared experiences. Not only are two-thirds of travellers are willing to travel abroad for concerts, endurance sports tourism also saw a fivefold increase with runners, cyclists, and Hyrox competitors crossing borders to compete and connect. In Singapore, Google searches for “hyrox” and “marathon” grew 100% and 143% respectively YoY, with the Mount Fuji Marathon 2025 and Hyrox Hong Kong 2025 emerging as the top endurance sports events that Singaporeans searched in the first half of 2025.
5. Travel of Tomorrow: AI-driven travel has evolved from being a novelty to a necessity. In the first half of 2025, Google searches for “help planning my trip” grew by 190% YoY. In additional, virtual and immersive travel experiences are moving into the mainstream, with searches for “tech travel” on Trip.com surveying significantly, and bookings for Las Vegas Sphere (known for its immersive shows) and Tokyo Immersive Fort (known for its interactive installations and multi-sensory experiences) growing by 4014% and 1627% YoY respectively.

“It is exciting to see from the Why Travel? report that travel will be more about forging meaningful, memorable experiences and less about checking destinations off the bucket list in 2026 and beyond. From flying overseas for concerts, sporting events and immersive experiences to exploring cities through their vibrant food and wellness cultures, these shifts are influencing where travellers and headed and how they book their travels. By partnering with Google to uncover these insights, we can work with our partners to evolve our travel offerings so that the industry can better anticipate and meet the needs of consumer travellers now and into the future,” said Edmund Ong, General Manager, Trip.com Singapore.

“We’re seeing a clear shift in how and why people explore the world, seeking deeper purpose, richer connections and experiences enhanced by technology. Google’s AI tools like Gemini, AI Mode on Search and Google Translate are emerging as travel collaborators to help people plan and make decisions. AI is an essential tool also for the industry, enabling partners like Trip.com Group to capture the immense opportunities that lie ahead in 2026 and beyond,” said Joyce Zhang, Managing Director, Greater China LCS Specialists team, Google.

With community becoming a core booking motivator and AI-first travel increasing, Trip.com Group is doubling down on comprehensive concert travel packages and continues to expand AI-driven planning tools such as Trip.Planner to deliver seamless, personalised journeys. Looking ahead, the next wave of consumer growth will be driven by emotional alignment, cultural fluency, and tech-enabled flexibility – the foundations of the future of travel.

 

 

 

The post ‘Why Travel?’ reveals Top five Trends on Consumer Travel appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Redesigned METT Barcelona opens with 70 Keys appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With the city at its feet and the Mediterranean on the horizon, the METT Barcelona (metthotelsandresorts.com/barcelona/) hotel opened this month, offering a lively new sanctuary atop Tibidabo, Barcelona’s tallest hill, a five-star experience that turns the beauty of celebrating life into art.

The hotel is a reinvention of the 1925 landmark Gran Hotel La Florida, which was designed by Spanish architect Ramón Raventós in the grand Catalan architectural style known as Noucentisme. A landmark reborn with renewed elegance under the METT Hotels & Resorts brand, the flagship brand of Sunset Hospitality Group, METT Barcelona offers a five-star urban resort experience.

Throughout its history, the iconic Barcelona landmark hosted legendary figures such as Ernest Hemingway, James Stewart, Rock Hudson and Princess Fabiola of Belgium, and more recently, personalities such as Bruce Springsteen, Barack and Michelle Obama and Tom Hanks.

Now, 100 years after its inception and following a comprehensive renovation, the hotel features 70 carefully designed rooms and suites, terraces bathed in Mediterranean light, an infinity pool that seems to merge with the sky, vibrant gastronomic offerings and the exclusive Valmont Red Carpet Spa. METT Barcelona offers a sophisticated retreat where every detail is designed for relaxation and celebration.

Rooms and Suites: An oasis of calm with endless views

Each room and suite at METT Barcelona is a tribute to serenity and comfort: natural textures, soft lines and a colour palette inspired by the Mediterranean Sea create an enveloping atmosphere that invites you to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself.

All rooms are equipped with amenities from the French brand Botanyc, which add a sensory touch thanks to their exclusive Bal Tropical line, made on the French Riviera and composed of notes of bergamot, lychee and jasmine.

The hotel’s Signature Suites, measuring up to 750 square feet, take the experience to a new level: they feature spacious rooms, a separate living area, access to exclusive areas and unparalleled views stretching from the deep blue sea to the majesty of Tibidabo. The large windows frame the vibrant energy of the city, bringing its heartbeat directly into your suite. Signature Suites with Plunge Pool offer an opportunity to observe the city from a new perspective: the comfort of a private outdoor pool.

For those seeking an even more intimate connection with nature, the Lifestyle Rooms with private terraces overlooking the infinity pool create a sense of retreat and harmony. Meanwhile, the Sea View Junior Suites and Sea View Suites turn every sunrise into an unforgettable spectacle, with the Barcelona skyline as a backdrop.

Valmont Red Carpet Spa: The Swiss art of wellness arrives in Barcelona to transform body and soul

METT Barcelona’s exclusive spa fuses cutting-edge cosmetic innovation with the ancient restorative power of wellness rituals. The result is a comprehensive experience, meticulously designed to harmonize and balance body, mind and soul.

Valmont Red Carpet Spa is an Eden where specialized therapists, equipped with the most exclusive technology, guide each guest on a personalized journey, from massages and high-performance facial rituals, to holistic therapies designed to renew, the focus is on reconnecting with oneself and savouring the true art of self-care.

The soul and essence of this unique space is Valmont, a renowned Swiss emblem of luxury cellular cosmetics that embodies excellence. With over 40 years of experience and a heritage that began at the prestigious Valmont Clinic on the Swiss Riviera, the brand has conquered the world of skincare by combining advanced science, the purest natural ingredients from the Alps and an unmistakable artistic sensibility.

Valmont Red Carpet Spa will also incorporate the exclusive “Red Carpet” skin treatment brought directly from the U.S., and acclaimed by leading figures in the worlds of art, cinema and fashion. With this alliance, METT Barcelona joins the network of prestigious Valmont Spas, carefully selected around the world.

Florida Lounge by Lladró: art that transforms spaces and emotions

As part of its commitment to art and design with soul, METT Barcelona incorporates the creative universe of Lladró, the Spanish brand recognized worldwide for its artistic porcelain.

This creative collaboration turns the hotel into a new cultural offering of the city. In the heart of the lobby, the Florida Lounge by Lladró displays a permanent collection that includes Lladró’s most avant-garde creations, such as Jaime Hayon’s The Fantasy, The Guest and Embraced collections. A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that also seeks to create a dialogue between the elegant lamps designed by Marcel Wanders, the subtle Ice Cream collection and natural light, bringing the building’s century-old architecture to life.

As an extension of the alliance, the exclusive Lladró Cocktail, featured on the hotel’s menu, embodies the essence of the brand in both flavour and form: sophistication, creativity and an exciting legacy of craftsmanship.

Gastronomy: A sensory journey with Mediterranean roots

True to the spirit of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, METT Barcelona places the culinary experience at the center of its offering. From panoramic breakfasts and lunches bathed in the golden Mediterranean light, to evenings when the spaces come alive, stretching out between signature cocktails and the seductive rhythm of live music. Every gastronomic corner has been meticulously designed so that guests and locals can experience Barcelona through all their senses, with a view that is as cosmopolitan as it is authentic.

Albarada is a contemporary restaurant that reimagines Mediterranean cuisine with local sensitivity, beauty, and authenticity. Inspired by a traditional Catalan way of dining, 1925 Vermutería offers refined authentic tapas, made with ingredients sourced from local markets and growers. The Florida Lounge by Lladró is the welcoming heart of METT Barcelona, designed as a stylish meeting point for light fare, casual business, and social catch-ups.

And The Pool Club offers stunning views where guests can enjoy the heated outdoor pool, sun loungers, and a meal on the terrace with views to the Mediterranean Sea.

Terraces – Unforgettable settings for memorable moments

From the top of Tibidabo, the terraces of METT Barcelona unfold like natural extensions of the beauty of the surroundings. These outdoor spaces, with the mesmerising panorama of Barcelona, invite guests to both relaxation and celebration. They are the perfect canvas for a casual meal in the Mediterranean sun, an intimate evening under the stars, or a special celebration.

For professional or social gatherings, METT Barcelona offers a selection of meeting rooms and versatile spaces. Flooded with warm natural light and with direct access to private terraces that expand the possibilities, these rooms have been designed to spark creativity, foster connection, and ensure the well-being of all attendees.

 

 

The post Redesigned METT Barcelona opens with 70 Keys appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Radisson Hotel Group opens Park Inn by Radisson Lucknow Vikas Nagar and Radisson Hotel Prayagraj appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) announces the opening of two new hotels, Park Inn by Radisson Lucknow Vikas Nagar and Radisson Hotel Prayagraj, reinforcing its footprint in one of India’s largest and fastest-growing markets. These openings further strengthen the Group’s presence in North India and highlight its commitment to bringing diverse hospitality experiences across emerging and established destinations.

Park Inn by Radisson Lucknow Vikas Nagar: Comfort and convenience in the city’s heart

Centrally located in the vibrant neighborhood of Vikas Nagar, Park Inn by Radisson Lucknow brings the brand’s signature balance of comfort and convenience to the city. Designed for modern travelers, the hotel features stylish rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, and inviting social spaces including a rooftop bar that overlooks the city skyline. Guests can enjoy a well-equipped fitness center, outdoor pool, and a cozy café-style lobby that houses the unique ‘Read It & Return’ library, creating a warm and familiar environment that feels like home.

Radisson Hotel Prayagraj: City’s first international five-star hotel

In the historic city of Prayagraj, Radisson Hotel Prayagraj debuts as the city’s first international five-star hotel, setting a new benchmark for premium hospitality. Located in the prime Civil Lines area, the hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with the city’s rich cultural heritage. It features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, a variety of dining options, expansive banqueting venues ideal for weddings and social events, and a wellness floor with an infinity pool offering panoramic views of the city.

RHG’s growth vision for Uttar Pradesh

“Uttar Pradesh stands at the forefront of our expansion strategy in India, driven by its dynamic economy and rich cultural heritage. The opening of two hotels in Lucknow and Prayagraj marks a significant step in our expansion journey across North India. As we continue to strengthen our footprint in high-potential state capitals and tier-2 cities, our focus remains on creating meaningful value for guests and partners while contributing to the region’s economic and tourism growth,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

Shaping new hospitality landmarks

“Collaborating with Radisson Hotel Group marks a significant milestone in our hospitality journey. With Park Inn by Radisson Lucknow Vikas Nagar, we wanted to create a space that reflects the warmth and vibrancy of the city while offering guests the confidence and comfort of an international brand. We believe this partnership will bring a refreshing, guest-first experience to Lucknow’s growing hospitality landscape,” said Sangam Mishra, Chairman and Owner, Park Inn by Radisson Lucknow Vikas Nagar.

“We are proud to introduce Prayagraj’s first international five-star hotel in collaboration with Radisson Hotel Group. This association brings world-class standards of service and design to the city while complementing Prayagraj’s growing position as a destination for both leisure and business travellers. We look forward to contributing to the city’s evolving tourism and hospitality story through this partnership,” said Owais Usmani, Managing Director, Presidency International Hotels Pvt Ltd.

RHG: Strengthening market leadership in India

Radisson Hotel Group continues to command a leading presence in the Indian market and is one of the country’s largest international hotel operators with over 200 hotels in operation and development. It continues to be the largest hotel operator in a tier-1 market like Delhi NCR, while over 50% of its portfolio is in tier-2 and 3 markets. The Group has successfully introduced various brands to the growing Indian market, including Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, and Radisson Individuals and its extension Radisson Individuals Retreats.

 

 

 

 

 

The post Radisson Hotel Group opens Park Inn by Radisson Lucknow Vikas Nagar and Radisson Hotel Prayagraj appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Jet2.com and Jet2holidays put expanded Summer 27 programme on sale from Birmingham Airport  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays are unlocking even more sunshine for Summer 27, after putting an expanded Summer Sun programme on sale from Birmingham Airport – including a brand-new route!  With flights and holidays to 57 sun and leisure city destinations across the Canaries, Balearics, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Cyprus, Croatia, Montenegro, Malta, Bulgaria, France, Austria, Morocco and Portugal available to book from today, customers in the Midlands can look ahead and get their well-deserved summer break secured.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “We know that customers are looking to book their Summer 27 holidays in advance, so they can get the best choice of hotels, rooms and dates. In response to customers wanting to lock in their getaways, we have put our Summer Sun programme on sale for 2027 from Birmingham Airport before anyone else, giving them the chance to get that holiday booked in. With a larger number of seats and routes on sale, including brand-new Bergerac, holidaymakers have an unbelievable selection of flights and holidays to choose from and by going on sale today, we are letting them book in advance and get their sunshine sorted. We are looking ahead to another very successful Summer 27 from the airport.”

Al Titterington, Terminal Operations Director, at Birmingham Airport said: “We’re delighted that Jet2.com and Jet2 Holidays have, once again, responded to our customer’s needs by announcing a new and expanded Summer Sun programme from Birmingham Airport for 2027. The expanded programme features more seats on sale and even more destinations to choose from including an all-new route to Bergerac in France. We know that many customers are keen to plan ahead and secure their summer breaks well in advance, so we’re confident that the programme will prove popular over the coming months.”

The Summer 27 programme from Birmingham Airport includes brand-new and exclusive services to Bergerac, giving holidaymakers in the region access to the medieval market town in the South of France for the first time.

In response to continued demand, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have also increased their capacity to existing popular destinations Malta and Kefalonia from Birmingham Airport.

The unrivalled programme represents over 2.5 million seats on sale and more than 230 departing weekly flights from Birmingham Airport during peak periods, offering plenty of choice and flexibility to customers and independent travel agents when it comes to booking some summer sun.

The release of the programme today means the companies are the first airline and tour operator to make Summer 27 available to book, as many customers look to lock the sunshine in nice and early.

Early bookers can get Summer 27 sorted with a low £60 per person deposit and then spread the cost through interest-free monthly payments.

Key Summer highlights from Birmingham Airport announced today for 2027 include:

• 57 destinations on sale
• Including brand-new services to Bergerac (exclusive Jet2 route)
• Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman, Izmir, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Reus, Alicante, Malaga, Girona, Costa de Almeria, Barcelona, Palma (Majorca), Ibiza, Menorca, Faro (Algarve), Madeira, Athens, Crete (Heraklion), Crete (Chania), Corfu, Kefalonia, Skiathos, Santorini, Kos, Kalamata, Preveza, Rhodes, Halkidiki, Samos, Zante, Larnaca, Paphos, Naples, Sicily, Sardinia, Verona, Rome, Palermo, Bulgaria (Bourgas), Dubrovnik, Split, Malta, Lesvos, Pisa, Tivat, Agadir, Pula, Jerez, Marrakech, Nice, Porto, Venice, Innsbruck, Bergerac
• Over 230 departing weekly flights during peak periods

The announcement means that customers can enjoy a Summer 27 holiday and experience Jet2.com and Jet2holidays’ award-winning VIP customer service. The companies’ famously welcoming customer service, which has seen them continually win accolades including Which? Travel Brand of the Year and Which? Recommended Provider status across seven categories, includes great flight times, 22kg baggage allowance and 10kg hand luggage with Jet2.com.

Customers booking a package holiday with Jet2holidays can take advantage of ATOL protection, a selection of 2 to 5-star accommodation, transfers to and from the airport, and Free Child Place Holidays.

 

 

 

 

 

The post Jet2.com and Jet2holidays put expanded Summer 27 programme on sale from Birmingham Airport  appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Short-haul flights carry over twice as many UK passengers as long-haul: AirHelp appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AirHelp has conducted an in-depth analysis comparing short-haul and long-haul flights departing from the United Kingdom between January and September this year.  The findings point to growing pressures on short-haul operators, which are carrying more passengers than ever and are facing mounting disruption levels, cancellations, and compensation claims.

Surging passenger volumes

AirHelp revealed that over 54.6 million people travelled on short-haul flights (covering distances between 0 and 1,500 km) during this period. Of these passengers, 25% – approximately 13.7 million – experienced a disruption. Notably, 671,000 people had their flights cancelled, and 530,000 were eligible for compensation from their airline.

In comparison, 22.5 million UK passengers flew on a long-haul flight (exceeding 3,500 km), with 27% (6 million) facing disruptions. Among them, 564,000 people had their flights cancelled, and 485,000 passengers qualified for compensation between January and September.

These figures highlight that short-haul flights carried 2.5 times more passengers than long haul flights. While the disruption rates are similar, short-haul flights saw higher rates of cancellations and compensation eligibility. This suggests that short-haul carriers are dealing with unprecedented operational pressures. With rising passenger volumes and tighter turnarounds than long-haul routes, short-haul networks are becoming more vulnerable to knock-on delays and cancellations – impacting millions of travellers.

Leading airlines by passenger volume

When looking at short-haul flights, EasyJet emerged as the most popular airline, carrying more than 14.2 million passengers from the UK between January and September. British Airways followed closely with 11.7 million people, while Ryanair transported 11.1 million passengers.

British Airways, the UK’s flag carrier, was also popular in the long-haul category, flying over 5.8 million passengers. Other major players included Emirates, with over 2.2 million people, and Virgin Atlantic Airways, which welcomed 2 million on its long-distance routes.

Top travel destinations

Between January and September, the most popular short-haul destination for UK passengers was within the United Kingdom, with 14 million people flying domestically. Spain followed with 6.5 million passengers, while Ireland, France, and Germany each attracted between 4.7 and 4.9 million travellers, highlighting the strong preference for European travel among short-haul flyers.

Long-haul passengers, on the other hand, favoured North America and the Middle East. The United States was a clear leader, welcoming over 7.8 million UK passengers – more than double the next most popular destination, the United Arab Emirates at 2.9 million. India, Canada, and Qatar were also popular, each receiving between 1.3 and 1.4 million passengers during this period.

Best and worst performing routes

Several short-haul flight paths stood out for their punctuality, with routes from Dyce Airport to Bergen Flesland and Sola in Norway both achieving an impressive 94% on-time departure rate. Flights departing from Liverpool to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport also saw high punctuality at 91%. However, not all short-haul routes fared well – Birmingham to Milan Bergamo saw 60% of passengers impacted by disruptions, followed by Birmingham to Madrid–Barajas Airport (57%) and Manchester to Bergamo (56%).

Long-haul flights showed even stronger punctuality on select routes – all of which arrived in China. London Heathrow to Shenzhen led the way with 96% of flights departing on-time, closely followed by Heathrow to Beijing Daxing (95%) and Edinburgh to Beijing Capital (92%). On the other hand, disruption was significant on routes from Manchester to Cairo, where 77% of passengers were affected, and London Gatwick to Raja Sansi and Ahmedabad, with 72% and 71% disruption rates, respectively.

AirHelp’s CEO, Tomasz Pawliszyn concluded, “Our latest analysis highlights the scale and complexity of flight disruptions affecting UK passengers. While short-haul flights carry significantly more passengers, they also experience higher rates of cancellations and compensation eligibility. These insights are crucial for helping passengers make informed travel decisions about air travel based on more than just the price of a flight. Our goal is to equip them with the right information and encourage airlines to improve reliability across the board.”

 

The post Short-haul flights carry over twice as many UK passengers as long-haul: AirHelp appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Thailand Tops Global Aviation Safety Scores at 91.35%, Surpassing the Global Average by Over 20%: CAAT appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) announced the results of the audit on the civil aviation safety oversight system under the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme – Continuous Monitoring Approach (USOAP CMA) of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), conducted from 27 August to 8 September 2025.

The preliminary results, covering only the areas under CAAT’s direct responsibility showed a preliminary score as high as 91.35%, nearly 20% above the global average of 70.50%.

The audit covered all eight key areas, namely:
1. Primary Aviation Legislation and Civil Aviation Regulations (LEG)
2. Civil Aviation Organization (ORG)
3. Personnel Licensing (PEL)
4. Aircraft Operations (OPS)
5. Airworthiness of Aircraft (AIR)
6. Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation (AIG)
7. Air Navigation Services (ANS)
8. Aerodromes and Ground Aids (AGA)

The preliminary results, covering only the areas under CAAT’s direct responsibility -namely legislation, civil aviation organization, aircraft operations, airworthiness, personnel licensing, air navigation services, and aerodromes – showed a preliminary score as high as 91.35%, nearly 20% above the global average of 70.50%. ICAO will be sending a draft report to be reviewed within 90 days after the audit is completed, and the official scores are expected to be announced on ICAO’s website around February 2026.

Thailand achieved a perfect score of 100% in two areas – Aviation Legislation (LEG) and Civil Aviation Organization (ORG) -exceeding the global average by 20–30%. This is ample evidence that Thailand currently has a modern and comprehensive aviation legal framework aligned with international standards, along with a strong, well-structured civil aviation authority on par with the world’s leading aviation nations. It also demonstrates how far Thailand has come since being placed under the ICAO “Red Flag” in 2015, underscoring the country’s progress towards becoming a globally recognized aviation hub.

Thailand’s Aviation Safety Development Path

• January 2015: Thailand (then under the Department of Civil Aviation) underwent an audit that identified 33 Significant Safety Concerns (SSC). As a result, ICAO issued a “Red Flag,” with Thailand’s Effective Implementation (EI) score at 33.53%.
• September 2017: CAAT (Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand) resolved all deficiencies, leading ICAO to remove the Red Flag; the EI score rose to 41.11%.
• May 2019: All remaining deficiencies were addressed (except in AIG, due to ICAO’s shortage of AIG experts). The EI score increased to 65.83%.
• September 2021: ICAO conducted an Offsite Validation focusing solely on AIG, with the EI score recorded at 66.08%.
• January 2022: ICAO updated its audit protocol from the PQ2017 Edition to PQ2020 for the USOAP-CMA, affecting the Effective Implementation (EI) scores of all states. Thailand’s EI score was adjusted to 61.60%.
• July 2025: ICAO introduced the new PQ2024 Edition, the latest set of criteria for USOAP-CMA audits.

Preliminary Results

• Current Score (before the audit): 61.60%
• Preliminary Score: 87.71%
• Preliminary Score (for areas under CAAT’s direct oversight – legislation, civil aviation organization, aircraft operations, airworthiness, personnel licensing, air navigation services, and aerodromes): 91.35%
• Global Average: 70.50%

CAAT devoted the full expertise of its personnel to prepare for this USOAP CMA audit, the largest in the past decade since 2015. Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director General of CAAT explained CAAT’s approach to the ICAO assessment that “ICAO provides Thailand with a checklist, questions, and guidance – the same procedure applied worldwide. Each CAAT division responsible for its respective area must work with its own team, covering legislation, operational procedures, and inspections of operators to ensure compliance with CAAT standards, thereby demonstrating the Authority’s oversight capability. Afterwards, ICAO reviews what CAAT has documented, such as regulations and operating procedures, to verify whether CAAT officials enforce them correctly, including applying penalties when operators or licensed personnel violate rules or laws. All these elements contribute to the high scores awarded by ICAO. This process reflects a comprehensive and transparent implementation of aviation law in line with international standards.”

CAAT will perpetually enhance and uphold the standards through ongoing development. Significantly, this achievement was not accomplished by CAAT solitarily but through the collaboration of all stakeholders – including Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd., Airports of Thailand Plc., the Department of Airports, the Civil Aviation Training Center, airlines, and all relevant partner agencies. Their collective efforts drove this mission to success, giving confidence that Thailand will continue to advance steadily towards becoming a safe and reliable aviation hub for the region and the world.

“Normally, ICAO conducts audit programs for its 193 member states, with around 12–20 countries assessed each year. Given Thailand’s high score in this audit, it is expected that, in terms of managing safety risks among member states, there will likely be a considerable interval before Thailand is reviewed again. Over the past decade, Thailand has been among the countries most frequently audited by ICAO. In addition, the checklist used by CAAT for this assessment was the latest 2024 version, which is more efficient. From now on, ICAO will be using this checklist to evaluate all member states before the cycle returns to Thailand,” Air Chief Marshal Manat concluded.

 

 

 

The post Thailand Tops Global Aviation Safety Scores at 91.35%, Surpassing the Global Average by Over 20%: CAAT appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post August 2025 Traffic Results show continued growth in international passenger demand: AAPA appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Preliminary August 2025 traffic figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed continued growth in international passenger demand, on the back of strong business and leisure travel activity across the region and globally.

In August, Asia Pacific airlines carried 34.3 million international passengers, an 8.8% increase compared to the same month last year. Traffic, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), grew by 9.1% year-on-year, underpinned by strength in longer-haul markets. The average international passenger load factor remained elevated at 82.9%, with the 9.2% expansion in available seat capacity closely matching demand growth.

International air cargo markets also continued to expand in August, spurred by stockpiling activity as businesses sought to mitigate tariff-related price pressures. Alongside the sustained demand for e-commerce shipments, international air cargo demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), recorded a 5.4% year-on-year increase. Offered freight capacity grew by 5.5% year-on-year, resulting in a marginal 0.1 percentage point decline in the average international freight load factor to 59.5%.

Commenting on the results, Subhas Menon, AAPA Director General, said, “Both passenger and cargo markets have continued to demonstrate resilience in the face of global challenges, including protectionist trade measures and ongoing supply chain constraints. During the first eight months of the year, Asia Pacific airlines carried 258 million international passengers, a 10.8% increase compared to the same period last year, while international air cargo demand grew by 6.4%. Shifts in trade flows, driven by higher tariffs, also lent support to cargo traffic growth from the region’s major manufacturing hubs.”

Looking ahead, Menon said, “The region’s carriers remain cautiously optimistic, with travel demand expected to stay resilient, underpinned by continued expansion in global economic activity, particularly in Asia. On the cargo front, the near-term outlook is likely to be shaped by further developments in global trade policy and inventory cycles.”

“Persistent supply chain constraints and associated pressures on operating costs will continue to pose challenges, underscoring the need for airlines to remain agile in responding to market demand, and for continued vigilance in cost management. Overall, Asia Pacific airlines are well-positioned to navigate the wider economic and operational challenges that present themselves in the coming months.”

 

 

 

The post August 2025 Traffic Results show continued growth in international passenger demand: AAPA appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Over 380,000 Discounted Singapore Airlines And Scoot Tickets On Sale At The ‘2025 Time To Fly Travel Fair’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) Time To Fly travel fair returns in October 2025, offering more than 380,000 discounted tickets across SIA and its low-cost subsidiary, Scoot. Promotional fares are available on eligible SIA flights for travel from January to September 2026, and on Scoot flights from November 2025 to October 2026.

SIA’s customers can enjoy promotions on more than 200,000 return tickets across Business Class, Premium Economy Class, and Economy Class from Singapore to 77 global destinations, including Brisbane, Frankfurt, Ho Chi Minh City, San Francisco, and Taipei.

Scoot will offer discounts on over 180,000 one-way fares across ScootPlus and Economy Class from Singapore to 61 destinations across its Asia-Pacific and European network. These include new destinations Chiang Rai, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Tokyo (Haneda), and Vienna.

Online sales run from 24th October to 6th November 2025 via the SIA and Scoot websites and mobile applications, and through appointed travel agents.

A Time To Fly physical travel fair will run from 24th to 26th October 2025 at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, halls 401, 402, and 403, featuring deals from more than 30 participating travel agents and partners.

Vinod Kannan, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing, Singapore Airlines, said: “Time To Fly has become an annual highlight for our Singapore-based customers. This year, between Singapore Airlines and Scoot, we are offering more than 380,000 discounted tickets across 122 destinations worldwide, alongside exclusive offers at the three-day fair. This gives our customers greater choice and fantastic value as they plan their 2026 holidays with family and loved ones.”

Calvin Chan, Chief Commercial Officer, Scoot, said: “We are delighted to be a part of the Time To Fly travel fair once again and together with SIA, offer our customers an exciting range of promotions not only for the year-end holiday season, but also the coming year. We look forward to having even more travellers journey with Scoot, creating memorable travel stories at even greater value.”

Highlights at the physical fair include exclusive giveaways, headlined by a grand lucky draw prize where one winner will receive three pairs of SIA Business Class return tickets to Beijing, Manila, and Sydney, with hotel accommodation in each city. Additional prizes include SIA Business Class return tickets to Denpasar, Osaka[3], and Male with hotel stays, as well as Scoot vouchers worth up to S$2,000.

The top Kris+[4] and Pelago[5] spenders at the fair will each win SIA Economy Class return tickets with hotel stays to Phuket and Melbourne respectively. A three-day, two-night hotel stay in Singapore will also be awarded to the top KrisShop[6] spender. Customers who spend S$2,500 or more using a Mastercard credit or debit card stand a chance to win S$100 worth of Pelago or KrisShop vouchers[7].

 

 

 

 

The post Over 380,000 Discounted Singapore Airlines And Scoot Tickets On Sale At The ‘2025 Time To Fly Travel Fair’ appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post GIC International Catering and Air China start cooperation appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Since mid-September 2025, a new airline has joined the client portfolio of GIC International Catering (GIC), a specialist for tailor-made in-flight catering at Frankfurt Airport for currently 21 airlines: GIC is now exclusively responsible for the catering on the direct connection from Frankfurt to Chengdu operated by one of China’s largest airlines, Air China. The long-haul flights connect Germany with the capital of Sichuan Province.

Passengers can look forward to carefully prepared meals that combine European influences with authentic flavors from Chinese cuisine, for example tender beef fillet with roasted potato cubes, buttered snow peas, and thyme demi-glace, or aromatic Kung Pao chicken with crisp vegetables and rice. GIC places particular emphasis on quality, freshness, and an appealing presentation of the dishes, which allows for moments of enjoyment in every service class.

“With Air China, we are starting an exciting new partnership that makes diverse flavors at the highest level tangible. Therefore, it is our goal to offer all guests unique culinary delights – authentic, fresh, and always with attention to detail,” says Göksel Yildirim, CEO of GIC International Catering. “We are also particularly pleased about the new collaboration because our companies share values such as hospitality and a love for excellent food.”

With this new partnership, GIC strengthens its position as a premium provider for international airline catering at Frankfurt.

25 years of experience in airline catering

The family-owned company from Kelsterbach, near Frankfurt Airport, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and currently produces up to 5,000 meals a day for international airlines, business jets, private charter flights, as well as for schools and events. On a production area of 2,500 square meters, 170 employees ensure smooth logistics and the implementation of the highest quality standards. With Air China, GIC has gained another new customer within a short period. Recently, the company announced the collaboration with the Cuban airline Cubana, which will take-off in December 2025.

 

 

The post GIC International Catering and Air China start cooperation appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia