Luxury ocean cruise line Regent Seven Seas Cruises does its part to help the American Cancer Society with the launch of the Relay For Life at Sea.
The Relay for Life at Sea programme invites guests aboard Regent’s newest vessel, the Seven Seas Grandeur, to help support the ACS’s drive to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer, whilst encouraging individuals to prioritise preventative health measures.
According to Regent Seven Seas Cruises president Andrea DeMarco, herself a cancer survivor: “Cancer is a journey that touches so many of us, directly or indirectly, and I feel deeply fortunate to stand here today as both a survivor and an advocate of the incredible work of the ACS. The support I received from my family, friends, and our Regent family played an immeasurable role in my own recovery from breast cancer this past year and we are proud to partner with the ACS for Relay For Life At Sea. Utilising our wonderful cruising community, bringing together our valued guests and crew and channelling a spirit of solidarity, we will march towards a future free from cancer together.”
For better health
With Relay For Life at Sea, Regent’s guests are invited to walk as many laps as they can around Seven Seas Grandeur’s sports track, combining friendly competition with a shared mission of support and unity.
Representing an opportunity for luxury travellers to not only support ACS but also to bring the Regent community together around a cause that affects so many lives, guests on board can join Relay For Life at Sea with a donation of US$25 or more to the American Cancer Society.
Regent aims to sail toward a brighter, healthier future, filled with compassion, courage, and camaraderie, through Relay For Life at Sea and other effortsto support the ACS, such as the cruise line’s observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
Throughout the month, the cruise line held Pink Out days on board their ships across the fleet with Pink Parties featuring special, pink-themed food and beverages.
Guests onboard any Seven Seas Grandeur sailing from 14 November 2024, onwards can take part in the programme by registering and donating through the official Relay For Life at Sea webpage.
New tourism products and new destinations beckon travellers, trends indicate an interest in lunar and solar eclipses, outback adventure, gaming and sporting events, green gardens and of course just being able to relax. In an interview with TDM, Jarrod Kris, Head of Partnerships- APAC, Skyscanner shares more.
Travel Daily Media (TDM): What has your growth been like in APAC and Asia?
Jarrod Kris (JK): With APAC and Asia, we have been established for a while. Our head office in APAC is here in Singapore, and we have just launched an office in India outside of Delhi, and that launched in September. So, we are excited to expand the team there. In the last 12 months, it has become the number one volume market for Skyscanner globally based on absolute numbers and sessions. So, we understand the importance around the Indian traveller and what they are searching for. Post COVID, we saw the recovery of travel to and from India. A lot of that was the VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives), but that has now completely sustained, and we are starting to see the leisure travel continue as the Indian market opens up as well.
TDM: Can you share with us top five travel trends that you see coming up and even growing more in 2025?
JK: So, we released seven travel trends for 2025. The first is what we describe as Astro Adventurers, travellers that are looking to travel to see the Northen lights, they are also interested in lunar and solar eclipses. The second is Horti-Culture, we often see, 72% of travellers from APAC visiting a garden, so a botanic garden of some sort, in the destination of their choice when they visit. The idea that they’re getting out and experiencing Gardens is important. The fourth is what we call Cowboy Core. We see the rise of things like Yellowstone TV show. People are inspired to visit national parks horseback riding and having that sort of Outback adventure. Beyond that we have Gami-Vacation. So, gaming conventions are proving very important and crucial. Younger millennials of Gen Z and Gen Y are flying to these gaming conventions worldwide to experience and share commonalities around their interest in gaming. Then we have the Reset Jetters, holistic living is becoming increasingly popular among traveller, so beyond just spas, but really about mental well-being and making sure that they can have the time to relax and unwind. And then they will often fly to destinations to simply just zone out and take that time to relax and chill out.
TDM: How is inbound tourism to Asia and Asia Pacific changing, what are the trends that you are seeing? What do people want to experience? JK: I think APAC is a growing region within itself. As we came out of the pandemic, APAC was probably the last region to recover. And what we’re seeing is the increase in short haul flights from low-cost carriers, making it more affordable for those Budget friendly vacations, for people to travel within the APAC region. So, flying from Singapore to Thailand, Singapore to India, Japan to Korea, Korea to Japan, compared to Australia. There’s more robust competition in pricing from those low-cost carriers, and ultimately, it makes it a more attractive package to travel within the region. So, the idea is that these are many lesser-known travel destinations, waiting to be discovered. Its about moving away from the big cities to experience these off the beaten track adventures which are becoming popular.
TDM: What main things in technology do you see changing, especially in the tourism industry? JK: The number one thing we are starting to see globally is the adoption of AI. Skyscanner is offering its Skyscanner Savvy Search, which is a tool that operates on the app and is being offered across eight different markets currently. And it adopts natural/native language, so you have a more conversational response. If you are looking to apply a vibe or a passion as to where you want to travel, that can then adapt it into a content piece that will describe the destination that would be most ideal for you, together with a price for a flight to get to that destination.
TDM: How have you found ITB Asia 2024, has it changed? JK: It still feels as exciting as ever. I know last year we were probably talking more about the recovery. This year we are talking more around adoption of AI and adoption of long-haul markets, the increase in short-haul flights within APAC region. So, the big thing we have been talking about is really around this collective experience, so travellers that are looking to have likeminded experiences, like I shared earlier around going to gaming conventions or horticulture for gardens. The other big thing is we are seeing is people travel for major sporting events. So, looking at things like Formula One, US Open Australia, these major sporting events are becoming a major trend for travellers to plan their holidays around.
TDM: What is the best part of your job? Why do you like being in the travel industry?
JK: The best part about the job is to be able to travel to so many different markets and countries and cultures. I am lucky enough as an Australian to have lived in Singapore for five years, and part of my everyday life is experiencing the amazing multicultural lifestyle here, and that often shows itself in the food I eat in the places I travel to, the people I connect with, and I love that, and I am very grateful for that.
Etihad Airways is gearing up for one of its most ambitious projects ever, as it prepares to go BIG, unveiling 10 new destinations on a single day. On November 25, the airline will reveal the locations, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing journey of growth and commitment to customer service excellence.
Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad’s chief executive officer said: “We’re almost ready to announce the new destinations which will excite and delight our customers.
“We have already unveiled three new destinations for 2025 – Prague, Warsaw and Al Alamein, but now we are taking it to another level. Etihad is accelerating its growth strategy with an impressive announcement of 10 new destinations on a single day.
“This bold move highlights the airline’s commitment to delivering an outstanding customer experience, marked by authentic Emirati hospitality and convenient travel options. We are dedicated to meeting our guests’ needs by offering the destinations they desire, at the times and frequencies that best suit them.”
At present, Etihad sells tickets to 83 destinations. The 10 new destinations being announced on 25 November will grow Etihad’s total number of cities served to 93, giving leisure and business travellers more options and convenience, and bringing even more visitors to its home in Abu Dhabi.
A Tik-Tok teaser campaign has been launched today and even more clues will be given in a special video to be released on Friday, 22 November, giving curious customers the weekend to make some more guesses before the big reveal on 25 November itself.
What is this journey, and where will it end? Stay tuned to Etihad’s social media channels and prepare for the big reveal.
Civitatis, the leading curated marketplace for tours and activities in Spanish, and Latin American ‘superApp’ Rappi are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership, launching a new tours and activities vertical within the Rappi platform. This collaboration will provide more than 50 million Rappi users in Latin America access to 90,000+ carefully curated global experiences from Civitatis, all conveniently accessible in Spanish.
Through this strategic partnership, Civitatis is further reinforcing its leadership and commitment to the Latin American market with strong local players like Rappi, expanding its presence in the region. Boasting over 600 million Spanish and Portuguese speakers globally, including 60 million in the U.S., Latin America represents a significant share of this audience and is the continent with the highest ecommerce and digitalization growth rates worldwide—especially in smartphone and social media adoption. This collaboration guarantees a robust, high-quality offering that delivers users a seamless experience characterized by simplicity, carefully curated selections, and top-tier activities. Following its growth across Latin America and Southern Europe, Civitatis continues to provide exceptional value and satisfaction to its users in these markets.
The extensive Rappi Travel platform, which already includes flights, hotels, packages, and car rentals, will welcome the addition of the new Tours & Activities vertical. With the upcoming integration of this vertical, Rappi Travel provides a complete travel solution, catering to every aspect of a journey in one place. This expansion, together with Civitatis, aligns with the growing demand in today’s travel landscape, where experiences are integral to travellers’ plans, empowering users to seamlessly book and enrich their trips with unique experiences, ensuring that each journey is as memorable as it is convenient.
Equipo CIVITATIS 2024; Foto: Ana Morales
Announcing the news, Alberto Gutiérrez, CEO at Civitatis, said: “This agreement with Rappi is an important step in further strengthening our strategic position in Latin America via access to over 22 million active users in the region.
“Rappi is the first ’superApp’ in Latin America and, as such, is the perfect partner, fitting very well with our model of working with sales channels that provide access to guests that would otherwise be very hard for local and regional travel & tours companies to reach directly.
“At the same time, our 90.000 tours & activities available in Spanish and Portuguese languages worldwide benefit from this agreement by expanding their distribution reach in the important Latin American outbound market.”
Guido Becher, Global Head of Rappi Travel, added: “This strategic alliance represents a step forward in Rappi’s mission to simplify the lives of its users. This partnership is a clear example of how leading companies in the global travel industry are turning to Rappi to reach new audiences in Latin America, placing their confidence in our platform to do so. Now, users can find in a single app not only solutions for their day-to-day lives, such as delivery to restaurants, pharmacies, and supermarkets, but also everything they need to book their trips and weekend getaways with the best benefits.”
“At Rappi Travel, we are committed to continuously innovating and offering more value to our users in Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay. Through this partnership, we enable our users to access a vast array of experiences, whether they are traveling abroad or exploring their own cities.”
The new Tours & Activities product on Rappi Travel, developed in collaboration with Civitatis, offers a range of user-friendly features designed to enhance the customer experience. Users can enjoy instant bookings for a wide variety of experiences, including excursions, guided tours, local activities, and tickets to parks and attractions. Additionally, exclusive benefits for Rappi’s loyalty program users are being developed to provide even more value. The seamless integration with Civitatis’ platform ensures access to a vast selection of high-quality activities, making it easier than ever for Rappi users to explore and book enriching experiences.
NH Collection Gent officially opened its doors on the 4th of November 2024, following a large-scale renovation of what was formally NH Hotel Gent Belford. With this launch, Minor Hotels Europe & Americas strengthens the brand presence of NH Collection Hotels & Resorts in Belgium, with a sister property in Antwerp and two in Brussels.
Partly housed in a meticulously restored building from the 1913 World Fair, the property honours the city’s most important textile magnates from the 14th century within its renovated interior. Taking inspiration from the works of Hendrik Conscience, a popular Flemish novelist, NH Collection Gent’s design also draws reference from the writer’s famous story of the forbidden love between Veerle Van Artevelde and Lieven Denys. From its 13th-century Denys Medieval Crypt to the property’s Grand Café Van Artevelde restaurant and contemporary suites, several details in the hotel pay homage to the compelling romantic tale.
Located in the historic centre of Ghent, NH Collection Gent offers direct access to attractions such as St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts. Guests can enjoy expansive views of the city’s historic urban landscape with rooms carefully spread over four floors.
Premium facilities
NH Collection Gent boasts 174 spacious and modern rooms that artfully embody the essence of the city’s rich textile history and heritage. Decorated with dynamic fabric art and infused with warm tones, each room harmoniously combines contemporary elegance with the allure of history. The Junior Suites are a distinctive feature of the hotel, each named after family members of the Van Artevelde family – figures of remarkable historical importance within Ghent’s textile saga.
A range of premium facilities are also available to create memorable guest experiences. Laidback mornings are guaranteed with the sumptuous breakfast buffet at the hotel’s Spinners Restaurant and the best spot to savour local specialities or to try Belgian beer is the hotel’s Grand Café Van Artevelde. Moreover, the property’s Dyers Courtyard is the perfect place to indulge in a light meal or drink during warmer months.
The hotel offers a fully equipped gym and relaxing sauna for leisurely stays. For meetings and events, NH Collection Gent offers a range of 10 versatile meetings and events rooms capable of hosting up to 400 guests.
A double room at NH Collection Gent starts from 150EUR per night, based on two guests – including breakfast, excluding city taxes.
The city of Ghent
A historic city centre with its famous three towers of Ghent, Graslei and Korenlei and the Castle of the Counts – the sights in Ghent count among Flanders’ finest. Ghent is a city in which the Middle Ages can still be felt but is just as much a city ahead of its time. Ghent is bustling, thanks to the many students who live there, but equally because of the creative entrepreneurs and foodies who call it home. The city is a place to discover culture and beautiful heritage during the daytime and enjoy the nightlife afterwards.
SITA is partnering with Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to revolutionize their passenger processing solutions. TPE will install SITA’s game changing check-in kiosk solutions, allowing passengers to fly through the airport and on to their destination faster than ever before. The kiosks bring innovation to the check-in desk, helping passenger processing become a state-of the-art feature of the airport experience.
The deal, which runs until 2033, shows SITA’s commitment to improving airport IT solutions and the passenger experience, through scalable, efficient systems that meet the needs of modern airports. With the new check-in and baggage handling processes, Taipei Taoyuan International Airport will reduce wait times and improve overall airport efficiency.
TPE has chosen SITA to provide its Local Departure Control System (LDCS), Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) and Common Use Self-Service (CUSS) systems, including a full hardware refresh of 80 check-in kiosks to support all international flights in Terminals 1 and 2.
The purchase of SITA’s technology comes at a crucial time for the aviation industry in Taiwan. Global passenger numbers are set to double to 10bn by 2040, and TPE needs to meet this growing demand, maintaining the highest level of security while improving overall airport efficiency.
Sumesh Patel, SITA APAC President, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating: “Our focus at SITA is to deliver technology solutions that help airport operators better manage their infrastructure in a way that is both optimal and makes the journey smoother for passengers. Airports around the world are facing challenges on many fronts, from staffing to efficiency, and improving the overall passenger experience. Taipei can become a pioneer in the Asian market in terms of digitalization and innovation, becoming an example for others in an ever-evolving travel industry.
Nelson Wang, Taipei Airport Operation Committee Chairman, expressed his confidence in SITA’s solutions. He said: “As part of our improvement program, the smart use of technology will maximize our existing infrastructure, and provide our passengers with a world-class experience, while supporting our airline customers in managing their operations more efficiently. SITA’s CUSS and CUTE systems are key to meeting our ambitions – from managing the flow of passengers through our terminals to making all of our passengers’ journeys smoother and more efficient.”
SITA has been a trusted partner for TPE for over three decades, and looks forward to continuing its successful collaboration, driving innovation and excellence in airport and airline technology for years to come.
The bleisure trend is showing no signs of coming in for landing as corporates around the world spend more nights away on business trips, according to new statistics released by Flight Centre Corporate.
A worldwide analysis across the two flagship business travel brands of Corporate Traveller and FCM Travel showed that single day trips grew at the slowest rate, taking a back seat to extended stays, whilst 6-7 days of travel came out on top with growth globally of 10 per cent year on year.
In the UK, the trend is even more prominent with 6-7 days of travel growing by 18 per cent compared to last year. Those going on singe day business trips from the UK remained the same year over year, showing no growth.
In 2024 the top destinations for extended work trips over 7 days from the UK were Paris, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Glasgow and Stockholm.
“There’s no doubt that bleisure travel has been a growing trend, especially since the pandemic reshaped the way we work. But our latest data shows us just how quickly this trend is accelerating and its one that businesses must pay attention to,” said Steve Norris, Managing Director, EMEA, Flight Centre Travel Group.
This is supported by the 2024 Global Business Travel Associations (GBTA) Business Travel Index Outlook – Annual Global Report and Forecast. Released in July and based on the responses from 4,100 business travellers across five global regions, the report found they rated the one-day trip as the least popular in terms of length.
“For UK travellers, Paris has emerged as the top destination for trips lasting over seven days, this is likely influenced by this year’s Paris Olympics. We’re really noticing a shift where sporting events and concerts play a tactical role in business trips. These longer bleisure stays are beneficial for local economies, where business travellers typically spend twice as much per night compared to leisure visitors. With European business travel spend expected to increase by 10 per cent this year, we’re seeing growth in this market out pace most regions globally, bringing with it significant opportunities for local destinations.” Norris added.
Further evidence of the strong global bleisure trend comes in the form of Flight Centre Corporate’s landmark global State of the Market* that showed, on average, more than 75 per cent of customers had travellers who added leisure travel to their work trips.
“This data delivers a valuable insight into emerging and prolonged worldwide business travel trends, providing organisations an opportunity to cater to the evolving needs of their employee’s business travel requirements, as well as providing a welcome recruitment tool,” commented Mellissa Elf, Global COO, Flight Centre Corporate.
GBTA has projected that European business travel spending will reach $391.1 billion USD (360.4 billion euros) in 2024, reflecting a 10.4% increase from 2023. Additionally for this year, Europe is estimated to account for 26.4% of total global business travel spending of $1.48 trillion (1.36 trillion euros).
Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team helmed by Giles Scott in action on Race Day 2 of the KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix in Sydney, Australia. Saturday 25th February 2024. Photo: Bob Martin for SailGP.
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is proud to announce a five-season global sponsorship with SailGP which will see it become the exclusive Global Airline Partner of the annual sail racing championship – a first for the league.
Emirates will continue as Title Partner of the Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix, taking place in Mina Rashid on November 23-24, ensuring that the Dubai fixture continues to be an iconic event within the SailGP annual calendar, helping grow attendance and promoting Dubai as an attractive destination for racing fans and enthusiasts. The airline will also become Title Partner of the Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team’s new home event in Portsmouth. The Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix | Portsmouth will mark SailGP’s long-awaited return to the UK, bringing top-flight racing action back to British shores from July 19-20, 2025.
SailGP is one of the fastest-growing sports and entertainment properties in the world, with 12 national teams confirmed for the 2025 season. The league’s annual competition calendar spans iconic destinations across five continents, with a minimum 13 events next season.
Registering significant growth in fan engagement, global broadcast and digital reach, as well as ticketed attendance at its events, SailGP events also enjoy a strong crossover with major destinations on the Emirates network.
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline & Group, said: “Our expanded relationship with SailGP is based on a shared commitment to bring the growing sport of sailing to a broader global audience on and off the waters. SailGP is emerging as a pioneering force in sport, focusing on establishing connections with a new legion of loyal SailGP fans through impactful experiences. Emirates and SailGP also have a common vision and brand promise – to ‘sport better’ and ‘fly better,’ driven by excellence and innovation.
We’re also a proud Title Partner of the events in Dubai and Portsmouth – kickstarting the competition in our home city and bringing sailing back to the UK in 2025 to become a permanent fixture on Sail-GP’s vibrant global calendar. We look forward to seeing sporting talent display their strength, passion, and technique at the highest level over the coming seasons.”
Ben Ainslie, driver of Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team, at the wheel during a practice session ahead of the Emirates Sail Grand Prix presented by P&O Marinas in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 7th December 2023. Photo: Ricardo Pinto for SailGP. Handout image supplied by SailGP
Russell Coutts, CEO SailGP, said:“We’re delighted to welcome Emirates on board as SailGP’s Official Airline Partner, strengthening an enduring relationship with the world-class carrier heading into our most exciting season to date. Emirates has a long-standing association with some of the world’s most-loved sporting clubs, tournaments, and events, and we are enormously proud to join the Emirates family. Emirates will be a key partner in helping SailGP reach new audiences through a shared passion for sporting excellence, and a commitment to innovation.”
As a Global Partner and Airline Partner of SailGP, Emirates will have an expanded brand presence across SailGP’s Emmy award-winning LiveLine broadcast production – with features including the “Emirates Finish” and “Emirates Fly Time” making their television debut from the upcoming season-opener in Dubai.
Emirates will continue its proud association with sport officiating by becoming SailGP’s official Umpire partner, working closely with the league to amplify the role of its officials – working remotely from SailGP’s broadcast studio in London – and further explaining the sport for fans in SailGP’s 212+ broadcast territories. Emirates will also provide racing fans with the opportunity to watch SailGP races on all flights via the airline’s award-winning inflight entertainment system, ice.
The airline will have onsite branding across the SailGP Race Stadium, trophy presentation and across a multitude of other prominent areas, in addition to the Emirates’ logo appearing on all of SailGP’s high-tech F50 catamarans, competing in the Title Events in Dubai and Portsmouth.
Other benefits include marketing, digital and social media rights, as well as world-class hospitality at SailGP’s top-tier hospitality offering, the Adrenaline Lounge. Emirates and SailGP will also work together to deliver community programs in line with SailGP’s local impact strategy. Further details will be announced in due course.
Emirates has been a staunch supporter of sailing with its first sponsorship dating back to 2004 as the naming sponsor of Emirates Team New Zealand, five-time America’s Cup champions. Emirates is also a proud sponsor of Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team, one of the league’s most successful sailing teams. The airline will continue to support the team for the next three seasons of the racing calendar. Emirates’ signature “Fly Better” logo is visible on all the Emirates GBR F50, with prominent branding on the team’s clothing, sailing apparel and equipment.
SailGP’s 2025 Season gets underway on November 23-24, unfolding over two action-packed days on the pristine waters of Mina Rashid. The Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix, presented by P&O Marinas is set to be a flagship event on the regional sporting calendar – the third time SailGP has visited the city and the second edition with Emirates as Title Partner.
Etihad Airways announced its financial results for the nine months ended 30 September 2024, achieving AED 1.4 billion (£301 million) profit after tax, a significant increase from AED 814 million (£175 million) during the same period in 2023. The strong results reflect the airline’s ongoing strategy of driving growth across the business alongside optimising operational efficiencies and improving customer service.
Total revenue increased 21 per cent to AED 18.4 billion (£3.96 billion) in the first nine months of 2024, up from AED 15.1 billion (£3.25 billion) in the same period last year. This growth was driven by a strong summer season as a consequence of the successful execution of our network expansion strategy, alongside significant growth in the cargo business, particularly in the third quarter of the year.
Passenger revenue increased by 21 per cent, reaching AED 15.2 billion (£3.27 billion), driven by strategic network expansion and increased flight frequencies that further enhanced connectivity. Etihad carried almost 14 million passengers over the first nine months of the year, a 35 per cent increase year-on-year, with Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) reaching 68.2 billion, up 31 per cent year-on-year. The average passenger load factor stood at 87 per cent for the nine months ended 30 September 2024, up from 86 per cent in the same period last year.
Cargo revenue rose to AED 3.0 billion (£646 million), up 21 per cent compared to the same period last year, driven by increased capacity, higher volumes and improved yields.
Operational efficiencies continued to improve, with unit costs decreasing year-on-year despite increased operating costs associated with growth and investments to enhance products and customer experience. Cost per Available Seat Kilometre (CASK) ex-fuel reduced by 8 per cent compared to the same period last year, highlighting Etihad’s ongoing commitment to efficiency and quality.
The overall passenger experience continued to improve, with customer satisfaction showing a sustained positive trend. Highlights included the introduction of Etihad’s fifth A380 and enhanced services supported by the new Terminal A at Zayed International Airport, along with expanded flight options in more convenient time slots, underscoring Etihad’s commitment to delivering a seamless and elevated travel experience for all guests.
Following the announcement of the airline’s Joint Business Agreement with China Eastern in the second quarter, Etihad Cargo extended its partnership with SF Airlines to boost UAE-China trade by enhancing capacity, transit times, and destination access.
Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive officer of Etihad Aviation Group, said: “We are happy to report a strong performance for the first nine months of the 2024 financial year, with a 21 per cent increase in revenue and a 66 per cent increase in profit after tax compared to the same period in 2023. This impressive growth is driven by strong results in both passenger and cargo revenues, underscoring the effectiveness of our strategy and the strength of our growth trajectory, where we are also seeing ongoing improvements in customer satisfaction.
“Our operating fleet continues to expand, with all six A321NEOs scheduled for delivery in 2024 now in service. Despite the continued global aircraft shortage, our fleet has grown to 95 aircraft, an increase of 16 aircraft compared to the same time last year.
“Our rolling 12-month passenger count has reached nearly 18 million, marking an increase of nearly 80 per cent compared to 2022 and underscoring the pace of our growth over the past two years. We’ve also extended our network to 83 destinations as of September, up from 72 a year ago, with further growth expected by year-end.
“We are also proud to report that, alongside our growth, we continue to invest in and develop our people. This year, we successfully relaunched our cadet program and promoted more than 1,000 pilots and crew members, empowering them with the skills and experience needed to continue delivering excellence in service to our customers.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to our customers for their continued trust and support. We are committed to enhancing their travel experience to be the airline that everyone wants to fly.
“I also want to express my sincere gratitude to our team. Their hard work and dedication at every point of our customer journey and coming together for a purpose has been crucial in achieving these results. Together, we’ve made a significant impact, and I thank them for their commitment.”
The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) hosted an inspiring Curtain Raiser for its 16th Annual Convention at The Park Hotel, New Delhi, setting the stage for an extraordinary event scheduled to take place in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, from 3 to 8 December, 2024. This evening’s event highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s vast potential as a global adventure tourism hub while emphasizing ATOAI’s commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
The event began with an engaging address by Ajeet Bajaj, president, ATOAI, who emphasised the transformative potential of sustainable adventure tourism. “Arunachal Pradesh is India’s Last Shangri-La and our next big adventure destination. This convention will set the stage for responsible adventure tourism and showcase how sustainability is the future of our industry. This convention promises to be a milestone event, further positioning Arunachal Pradesh and North East India at the forefront of adventure tourism in India and the world,” he remarked.
This sentiment was echoed by Oken Tayeng, MLA and Convention Chairperson, who called Arunachal “a playground of possibilities” and underlined the need for a sustainable roadmap to unlock its adventure tourism potential. Adding to the evening’s momentum, Arun Srivastava, Joint Director General, Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the importance of collaboration in developing adventure tourism in India. He noted, “India’s natural assets make it a top contender for global adventure tourism and Arunachal is a shining gem of the country.”
Ranphoa Ngowa, secretary of tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, further emphasized the state’s readiness to host global adventure seekers, pointing out its unique combination of untouched rivers, dense forests and rich tribal heritage.
The Hon’ble Tourism Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona, addressed the audience with a vision for positioning Arunachal as a global leader in adventure tourism. He highlighted the region’s unparalleled opportunities for activities such as river rafting, paragliding, and trekking, while also showcasing the significant strides made in infrastructure and connectivity. “This convention is not just about showcasing our breathtaking landscapes; it’s about our commitment to responsible tourism. We aim to ignite global interest in Arunachal as a premier destination for adventure, where culture and nature coexist harmoniously,” he said.
The evening also featured a captivating short film, Exploring Arunachal – India’s Last ShangriLa, which left the audience captivated by the state’s pristine beauty and cultural richness. A dynamic Q&A session followed, allowing attendees and media representatives to delve deeper into the convention’s objectives and Arunachal’s adventure tourism offerings.
Reflecting on the success of the evening, Vaibhav Kala, Senior Vice President of ATOAI, expressed gratitude to all attendees and emphasized the role of the convention in reshaping perceptions of adventure tourism in India. “This is the start of a fabulous journey for Arunachal Pradesh to become one of the top adventure travel destinations on the planet, rivalling regions in Peru, Chile, Costa Rica and many more: with a roadmap for developing adventure tourism in the State,” he remarked.
