The post The Food Bank Singapore joins the Sands Cares Accelerator appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Las Vegas Sands and Marina Bay Sands jointly announced that The Food Bank Singapore has joined Sands Cares Accelerator today, 5th March.

The Sands Cares Accelerator is a three-year membership programme that seeks to advance nonprofits to deliver greater community impact.

The Food Bank Singapore is the seventh organisation to join the Sands Cares Accelerator, which Sands launched in 2017 to help fast-track nonprofit organisations on the tipping point of making a leap in community impact.

What will this mean for the organisation?

During its time in the Sands Cares Accelerator, The Food Bank Singapore will focus on expanding its Bank Card Programme.

This initiative aims to better serve beneficiaries by simplifying the food distribution process. 

The nonprofit will receive US$100,000 per year for the three years of membership, along with structured guidance, and strategic counsel and mentorship from Sands and Marina Bay Sands to help achieve its Bank Card Programme goals and make it sustainable upon completion of the Sands Cares Accelerator.

A long-standing partnership

Since 2016, Marina Bay Sands has partnered with The Food Bank Singapore in numerous engagements. 

The resort provides ongoing donations of unserved banquet food from the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, while team members regularly volunteer in the organisation’s warehouse to sort food donations and take inventory. 

This announcement is aligned with the successful completion of Marina Bay Sands’ fourth annual Sands Cares Global Food Kit Build with The Food Bank Singapore yesterday, 4th March. 

Approximately 300 Marina Bay Sands Team Members, retail tenants and Sands Hospitality Scholarship recipients participated in assembling 6,000 kits, which included biscuits, rice and tinned food.

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The post Motorsport star Bianca Bustamante is Priority Pass’s new APAC brand advocate appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Colinson International’s airport experiences programme Priority Pass announced a collaboration with Elite Motorsport’s Filipino racer Bianca Bustamante today, 5th March. 

As Priority Pass’ newest Asia Pacific brand advocate, the 20-year-old will champion the brand’s promise to elevate every journey into something special. 

The news follows Priority Pass’ recent support of the Hong Kong China delegation to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the Harbin 2025 Asian Winter Games for which Priority Pass was the official airport lounge partner.

Bustamante said of the appointment: “I am proud to be a brand advocate for Priority Pass, a brand that supports my passion for travel and my goal to inspire others to challenge their limits. The nature of the sport means having to travel to different countries and cities. As I prepare for my debut in the GB3 Championship with Elite Motorsport this year, I’m grateful to now have access to Priority Pass’ global network of airport lounges and travel experiences in which I can conserve much-needed energy ahead of my races.”

Collinson International’s global chief commercial officer and Asia-Pacific executive chair Todd Hancock added: “Bianca’s remarkable achievements at such a young age are testament to her grit, talent, and resilience. Her story embodies Priority Pass’ commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards. As she is increasingly required to travel internationally, travel fatigue, and jet lag will pose a threat to her performance. By providing her with access to Priority Pass airport lounges and travel experiences globally, we hope she’ll be able to better rest before her flights and arrive feeling more refreshed and focused on achieving her best on the world stage.”

Raising the bar for excellence

This strategic collaboration reflects a shared commitment to elevating standards of excellence as Priority Pass is proud to support athletes around the world. 

In addition to being named as the Official Airport Lounge Partner for the Hong Kong, China Delegation to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and Harbin 2025 Asian Winter Games, Priority Pass is also a partner to the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA.)

In this capacity, it provides athletes with comfort and convenience during their travels to help them stay on top of their game. 

Furthermore, The Collinson Group takes pride in being a founding partner of Coach Core, a UK-based charity focused on empowering young people through sports.

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The post DOT Philippines highlights the potential of ‘Farm Tourism’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The three-day conference, organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) in partnership with the DOT, brought together local and international experts, policymakers, farmers, and tourism stakeholders. The event aimed to highlight General Santos City’s potential as a leading destination for sustainable and innovative farm tourism practices

With the theme “Innovations in Farm Tourism: Cultivating Growth and Sustainability,” the conference spotlighted success stories from across the country, including bio-diversified farming initiatives that have revitalized rural communities, such as General Santos City’s grapes farming as an emerging industry.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reaffirmed the Philippine government’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth through the promotion of farm tourism at the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference (PIFTC), held Tuesday (Feb. 25) at the KCC Mall in General Santos City, South Cotabato.

In her keynote address, Secretary Frasco underscored the transformative potential of farm tourism in driving rural development, ensuring food security, and preserving the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage.

“At the heart of farm tourism lies a simple yet powerful idea: our farms are more than just places of production. They are living landscapes of culture, history, and sustainability—where traditions are passed down, innovation takes root, and communities find new pathways to prosperity,” Secretary Frasco said.

“Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we recognize farm tourism’s vital role in contributing to our nation’s prosperity. Guided by the National Tourism Development Plan, the DOT is committed to strengthening this sector through programs that empower local communities and promote sustainable agricultural practices,” she added.

Secretary Frasco reaffirmed the DOT’s dedication to positioning farm tourism as a vital pillar of the country’s tourism strategy. She also emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, local government units, and private stakeholders to ensure the sector’s sustainability and growth.

“By embracing our agricultural heritage and unlocking new opportunities in farm tourism, we cultivate a future where agriculture and tourism bring prosperity to our rural communities—while preserving these vital livelihoods for generations to come,” she remarked.

Passing the torch: General Santos City to Baguio City

One of the conference’s highlights was the turnover of hosting duties from General Santos City to Baguio City for the next PIFTC installment.

 

 

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The post Ascott brings The Famous CFC to Bangkok appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Chelsea Football Club’s official global hotels partner The Ascott Limited (Ascott) brings The Famous CFC to Bangkok, Thailand.

Building on the remarkable success of the Singapore edition of the fan event, Ascott is proud to bring the immersive global fan experience series to another of Chelsea’s passionate Southeast Asian fanbases. 

Scheduled for 25th and 26th April, the two-day celebration will be held at Ascott properties across Bangkok, including Ascott Embassy Sathorn Bangkok and Somerset Rama 9 Bangkok, promising an extraordinary experience for Chelsea supporters and members of Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), Ascott’s loyalty programme.

Bringing fans together

Ascott’s chief commercial officer Tan Bee Leng said: “Since becoming Chelsea’s official global hotels partner, Ascott has been bringing global fans closer to the club they love while redefining hospitality with our exclusive Ascott Star Rewards offerings, such as match-and-stay experience packages that include football clinics with Chelsea soccer school coaches at Cobham Training Ground and VIP access to Ascott’s private hospitality suite at Stamford Bridge.” 

Tan added that Ascott loyalty members are also eagerly anticipating the rebranding of the two stadium hotels currently operating as Stamford Bridge Hotel London to Ascott’s lyf brand by the second half of this year. 

As Tan puts it: “lyf’s experience-led social-living concept aligns seamlessly with Chelsea’s spirit and the vibrant atmosphere of Stamford Bridge, promising an exciting new chapter for both our guests and Chelsea fans.”

Chelsea’s chief revenue officer Casper Stylsvig added: “We are excited to return to Bangkok as part of The Famous CFC global series, offering a unique opportunity for the club to engage with its passionate fanbase around the world. This marks our first visit to Bangkok since 2017, and we are delighted to partner once again with Ascott to bring our global vision to life in innovative ways following the successful trip to Singapore last November. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience for our supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members alike.”

Chelsea’s greatest comes to Thailand

The upcoming Famous CFC in Bangkok will feature Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola, a beloved figure among fans for his exceptional contributions to the club from 1996 to 2003. 

A two-time Chelsea Player of the Year, Zola’s impact on the Blues was immeasurable, with supporters voting him the club’s greatest-ever player in 2003. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Zola helped Chelsea secure numerous major titles, including the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, UEFA Super Cup, two FA Cups, the League Cup and the Community Shield. Zola’s visit to Bangkok is eagerly awaited, with the event marking Chelsea’s much anticipated return to the city for the first time since 2017.

Zola’s star power was on full display during the Singapore edition of The Famous CFC last 30th November and 1st December, where he received an overwhelmingly warm reception from fans, many of whom travelled from across the region to meet him. 

While Zola’s footballing legacy was widely celebrated, it was his approachable nature that truly captured the hearts of supporters. 

His first visit to Singapore deepened the admiration and respect fans already had for him, and now Zola is set to bring that same warmth and rapport to Bangkok’s passionate Chelsea fanbase this April.

Zola himself remarked: “I’m thrilled to be part of The Famous CFC again this year and to return to Southeast Asia for the second time with the programme. After my memorable visit to Singapore, I’m looking forward to spending more time with our incredible fanbase in the region and discovering the beauty of Bangkok. It’s always special to connect with fans in such spirited communities.”

It should be noted that Ascott Star Rewards members will have the exclusive chance to meet Gianfranco Zola in person, hear stories from his illustrious career from the icon himself, and immerse themselves in the legacy of Chelsea Football Club with behind-the-scenes insights. 

The Famous CFC Bangkok will likewise offer an exclusive layer of engagement, including priority access, VIP hospitality experiences and curated stays at Ascott properties in Bangkok, ensuring that every moment is infused with meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that go beyond booking a stay.

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand brings together local and global tourism pros at Amazing Thailand Romance Trade Meet appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted its Amazing Thailand Romance Trade Meet 2025 and Amazing Thailand Romance Networking Dinner last 21st February at The Millennium Hilton Bangkok.

This event brought together 52 global buyers and 55 Thai tourism suppliers to foster new collaborations and reinforce Thailand’s position as a premier romance tourism destination.

TAT deputy governor for international marketing in Europe, the Americas, Middle East, and Africa Siripakorn Cheawsamoot opened the event with a presentation on the Amazing Thailand Grand Privileges: 2 by 4 Global Campaign.

Cheawsamoot’s presentation was followed by the Amazing Thailand Romance Product Briefing which was helmed by Eurblarp Siriphiromya, executive director of TAT’s tourism products department. 

A 180-minute Trade Meet Session served as a platform for strategic discussions between buyers and suppliers, fostering new partnerships and driving growth in Thailand’s luxury romance sector.

An enchanting evening among peers

The evening’s Amazing Thailand Romance Networking Dinner featured live music, curated cuisine, and engaging remarks by Cheawsamoot and Hilton Thailand national director Nitin Narayanan.

The event was characterised by a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere that encouraged further business networking.

TAT also organised the Amazing Thailand Romance FAM Trip to immerse buyers into the sights and sounds of Bangkok and Krabi, further solidifying Thailand’s reputation as a top destination for weddings, honeymoons, and romantic getaways.

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The post Turkish Airlines is flying high with USD2.4 billion profit for 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Turkish Airlines has reported a US$2.4 billion profit for 2024 in a challenging aviation industry hit by geopolitical and global tensions, aircraft production delays and engine issues. The carrier also revealed a cash dividend of $260 million for the same period, partly owing to its share buyback strategy.

Net debt fell by $8.3 billion in the past three years, reflecting the airline’s strong performance. This follows Turkish Airlines’ impressive growth during the past 20 years, with the airline outperforming sector averages in capacity, passenger numbers and profitability.

Turkish Airlines’ total revenues in 2024 increased by 8.2% year-on-year to $22.7 billion. Passenger revenue rose by 4% under intensifying competition, while cargo revenue grew by around 35% compared to 2023.

Turkish Cargo increased its annual cargo volume by over 20%, becoming the world’s third-largest air cargo carrier according to data published by the International Air Transport Association. Around $18 billion of the airline’s total revenue was attributed to exports, while total assets were worth $40 billion, growing 18-fold since 2002.

Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, Amortisation, and Rent totalled $5.7 billion with a margin of 25.3%, aligning with the carrier’s long-term targets.

When discussing the airline’s performance, Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, said: “Turkish Airlines continues to set industry benchmarks with its strong financial performance and strategic growth as showcased by our 2024 results.

“Despite global challenges, we remain committed to delivering our award-winning service and expanding our global network, while providing long-term value for our investors, employees, and of course our guests.

 

“As we move forward towards our 100th anniversary, we take pride in strengthening Türkiye’s position as a key player in global aviation and forge ahead on our journey to the top.”

2024 marked a year of milestones and achievements for Turkish Airlines. Reinforcing its leadership position as a global connector of continents and cultures, the carrier officially received the Guinness World Records title for “Most Countries Flown to by an Airline”.

Expanding into a new continent with the addition of Melbourne and Sydney routes to its network, Turkish Airlines also launched flights to Santiago, Chile, increasing its served countries to 131 and total international destinations to 299.

In 2024, Turkish Airlines was recognised as the “5-Star Global Airline” by APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association) for the fourth time, “Best Airline in Europe” by Skytrax for the ninth time and “Most Sustainable Flag Carrier Airline” for the third time by World Finance.

The fleet increased by 12% to 492 aircraft in 2024, supporting Turkish Airlines’ ambition to have 800 planes by 2033. Also last year, the airline secured $1.8 billion in aircraft financing and became the first carrier to agree a finance deal in Chinese Yuan. It issued a sustainability linked loan for aircraft financing for the first time and was awarded six separate financing accolades by industry publication Airline Economics.

Employing over 95,000 people along with its subsidiaries, Turkish Airlines represents Türkiye in the global air transportation industry with its unique flight network, modern fleet, superior service and successful performance. The airline will continue supporting the aviation industry’s sustainable growth, in line with its 2033 strategy and Türkiye’s national development objectives.

 

 

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The post Middle East on a budget? Wizz Air targets Middle East expansion with new London-Dubai route appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Wizz Air is shaking up the long-haul budget travel market with plans to launch ultra-low-cost flights from London to Dubai, using its upcoming Airbus A321XLR aircraft. The airline is aiming to introduce these routes as early as 2025, marking its first foray into long-haul, intercontinental operations.

The move aligns with Wizz Air’s broader strategy to challenge traditional full-service carriers by offering no-frills, cost-efficient flights on longer routes. The airline has already launched direct services from London Gatwick to Medina, Saudi Arabia, and is set to add flights to Jeddah, with further expansion across the Gulf region planned.

New aircraft, new markets

The introduction of the Airbus A321XLR, which boasts a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, allows Wizz Air to operate medium-to-long-haul routes that were previously out of reach for low-cost carriers. This opens up opportunities for affordable travel to the Middle East, which has traditionally been dominated by full-service airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways.

Wizz Air CEO József Váradi has hinted at future expansion beyond Dubai, with Abu Dhabi, Muscat, and Bahrain among potential destinations. The airline has already established a strong presence in the UAE through its joint venture, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, which connects Europe to the Gulf region with competitive fares.

This expansion comes at a time when Gulf carriers are increasing capacity on UK routes. Emirates recently announced additional A380 flights from London Heathrow to Dubai. Etihad Airways upgraded its fleet on London-Manchester routes to accommodate increased demand. Flydubai, Dubai’s budget airline, expanded its reach to secondary European cities, catering to cost-conscious travelers.

By entering the Gulf market, Wizz Air aims to attract budget-conscious travelers who previously had limited low-cost options for flights to the region. However, its ultra-low-cost model means passengers will need to pay extra for services such as checked baggage, seat selection, and onboard meals.

A new era for budget long-haul travel?

While Wizz Air’s low-cost model appeals to price-sensitive travelers, the challenge will be whether passengers will embrace the no-frills approach for longer flights. Unlike traditional long-haul airlines, Wizz Air’s A321XLR aircraft feature limited legroom and do not offer reclining seats, in-flight entertainment, or free meals.

Yet, if successful, Wizz Air’s Middle East expansion could reshape budget travel between the UK and the Gulf, opening the door for more affordable long-haul routes to Asia and beyond. The airline’s aggressive pricing strategy could also put pressure on legacy carriers to introduce more competitive fares in the region.

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The post British travellers to get six-month grace period as new EU visa system nears launch appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

British travelers preparing for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) rollout will benefit from a six-month grace period, allowing entry into EU countries even without the new visa waiver. The ETIAS, expected to launch in early 2026, will cost around EUR 7 and remain valid for three years. The new system, aimed at enhancing border security and streamlining travel, will work alongside the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is set to introduce biometric checks at EU borders by late 2025.

Why this matters

The ETIAS and EES are part of a broader trend of tightening entry requirements globally. While the EU emphasizes these measures as a step toward enhanced security, concerns have arisen within the travel industry about potential delays and disruptions, particularly at busy entry points such as Dover and major EU airports.

A recent survey conducted by the UK’s Department for Transport revealed that 15% of British travelers are now less inclined to visit the EU due to the upcoming changes, while 20% said they would reconsider or delay their trips if the new system led to extended wait times. The EES is expected to replace traditional passport stamping with an automated biometric check, potentially impacting border flow at key transit points.

Industry response and travel implications

Travel experts are advising British travelers to stay ahead of these changes by ensuring they apply for ETIAS well in advance once it is implemented. While the EU has promised a grace period of 180 days to ease the transition, concerns remain over the readiness of infrastructure at land crossings and airports to handle the shift smoothly.

Moreover, the UK is not alone in facing such entry hurdles. Similar visa requirements are becoming common worldwide, with the United States implementing ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for travelers from visa-waiver countries and Canada enforcing eTAs (Electronic Travel Authorizations). These shifts indicate a move toward digital pre-screening systems that could soon become a global norm.

For UK travelers, adapting to these changes will be crucial, especially for frequent flyers to the EU. While the transition period provides breathing room, early adoption of ETIAS will ensure smoother travel experiences when the system becomes fully operational.

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The post Loganair expands reach with new Southampton base appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, is strengthening its network by establishing a new base at Southampton Airport. The expansion will introduce a direct route from Southampton to Manchester, operating three times daily from October 26, 2025. This move is set to improve domestic connectivity while creating new job opportunities for local pilots, cabin crew, and engineers.

The new base is expected to add over 140,000 additional seats annually and is part of Loganair’s long-term strategy to increase connectivity across the UK’s regional hubs. By focusing on smaller airports, the airline aims to offer high-frequency, reliable services between underserved cities.

Loganair’s decision mirrors a broader industry trend, with several other airlines ramping up regional operations in response to shifting travel patterns. Over the past six months, multiple carriers have unveiled new bases across the UK to meet rising demand for domestic and short-haul flights. EasyJet recently announced the opening of its tenth UK base, adding six new routes, three Airbus A320neo aircraft, and over 130 direct jobs. This move comes as easyJet strengthens its position in key regional markets. Set to launch in April 2025, Jet2’s 13th UK base will feature flights to 17 destinations across Europe, creating over 125 jobs and expanding the airline’s leisure travel offerings. In a major growth push, easyJet also launched a base at Birmingham Airport, marking its first new UK hub in over a decade. The expansion resulted in 140 direct jobs and additional regional flight options.

Impact on regional connectivity

These developments underscore a strong industry shift toward enhancing domestic air connectivity in the UK. With train travel becoming increasingly expensive and unpredictable due to ongoing rail strikes, airlines are stepping in to fill the gap by offering reliable, high-frequency services between regional cities.

By establishing a base in Southampton, Loganair is tapping into a growing market of business and leisure travelers who seek faster and more convenient travel options. The airline’s expansion will not only facilitate travel between key UK regions but also contribute to the local economy by creating direct and indirect employment opportunities. As UK airlines increasingly focus on regional airports, this strategy signals a long-term commitment to strengthening domestic connectivity and improving air travel accessibility for travelers beyond London’s major hubs.

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The post Gama Aviation sees increasing business aviation traffic through Sharjah International Airport appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Gama Aviation will highlight its commitment to providing best-in-class business aviation services by showcasing its new Fixed Base Operation (FBO) facility at Sharjah International Airport during the inaugural Business Aviation Asia Forum & Expo (BAAFEx) 2025, taking place at the Changi Exhibition Centre in Singapore.

Set to open in 2025, Gama Aviation’s Sharjah FBO presents a strategic alternative for business aviation operators particularly with Dubai International Airport reducing slot availability for business jet traffic. Offering round-the-clock operations with zero slot restrictions, the facility ensures efficient turnaround times of 30-40 minutes and a taxi time of only a few minutes. Interestingly for a lot of the BAAFEx attendees, the Sharjah FBO is an optimal technical stop for flights between the Far East, Southeast Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Gama Aviation’s Sharjah FBO also provides seamless access to the UAE’s Northern Emirates and Downtown Dubai.

“Our Sharjah FBO is already accommodating a growing volume of Asian operators seeking efficiency and convenience. These operators greatly benefit from reduced turnaround times, dedicated fueling, minimal taxi times and zero slot restrictions,” said Tom Murphy, Managing Director of FBO Services at Gama Aviation, who is leading the company’s presence at BAAFEx 2025.

In addition to enhancing the existing operational efficiencies, Gama’s new Sharjah facility will feature premium hangarage capable of accommodating ACJ and BBJ aircraft, competitive lease rates, and licensed engineers providing line maintenance for select airframes. 

Celebrating a decade of successful FBO operations in Sharjah, this milestone development underscores Gama Aviation’s commitment to expanding its global network. The company is also set to break ground on another FBO facility in Jersey, Channel Islands, this year, strengthening position in the FBO market.

Attendees at BAAFEx 2025 will have the opportunity to engage with key Gama Aviation executives, including Matt Birch, FBO Manager, Gama Sharjah FBO; and Engin Basyurt, Head of Business Development.

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