The post A reimagined W Maldives offering nature-inspired 77 villas to reopen in March 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

W Maldives, the iconic luxury resort nestled in the North Ari Atoll, is set to welcome guests back on 1st March 2025 with a bold, full-scale transformation that redefines the island escape. After nearly two decades as a trailblazer in luxury Maldivian hospitality, the resort will reopen with an entirely reimagined design and elevated guest experience that combines W’s signature free spirit with the island’s natural splendour.

“We are excited to introduce a completely reimagined W Maldives to the world,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “This transformation is a bold step forward, blending the distinctive W spirit with the incredible natural beauty of the Maldives. We are confident that our guests will find not only a luxurious escape, but a dynamic and unforgettable experience that reflects the true essence of paradise.”

The Essence of the Transformation: The Original Wavemaker Returns

At the heart of this transformation lies a refreshed vision for what W Maldives represents: a place where W’s signature playful spirit meets elevated luxury. W Maldives remains as bold as ever, with a unique “Above and Below the Water” design philosophy that integrates the surrounding ocean and natural landscapes with cutting-edge architecture and interiors. This bold bio-boho aesthetic is inspired by the rich marine life and lush flora of the island, blending the island’s raw beauty with a sense of contemporary sophistication that is distinctly W.

The resort’s nature-inspired 77 villas—overwater and beachfront—have been meticulously redesigned to reflect the vibrancy of the island’s natural beauty while maintaining a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. Each villa—whether suspended above the lagoon or nestled along the pristine beach— has been carefully crafted to harmonise with the stunning natural surroundings, blending sustainable materials, natural tones, and ocean-inspired accents with splashes of colour and bold accents to create sanctuaries for an exclusive and immersive escape.

The Superior and Premier One-Bedroom Overwater Villas (149 sqm) feature spacious, open-plan layouts with private decks overlooking the turquoise waters, and floor-to-ceiling windows that connect guests to the island’s endless horizon. For beachside tranquillity, the Escape One-Bedroom Beach Villas (188 sqm) offer a lush, open-air retreat with mangrove-inspired accents, custom furnishings, and starlit outdoor bathrooms for a unique natural experience. Larger groups can indulge in the expansive Supreme and Oasis Two-Bedroom Overwater Villas (323-492 sqm) or Oasis Two-Bedroom Beach Villas (376 sqm), the newest addition to W Maldives’ villa categories, each with en-suite bathrooms, private whirlpools, extensive outdoor decks and two-story private water slides that slip directly into the pool. Each villa is fully outfitted with W’s MIXBAR, IPTV, and premium sound systems, ensuring an extraordinary balance of style, comfort, and connectivity.

A New Vision for Dining and Culinary Experiences

W Maldives is also redefining its culinary offerings, elevating the island’s dining experience with bold new concepts and global influences. At the core of this transformation is the resort’s signature restaurant, FISH, which will introduce an “Ocean-to-Table” experience that highlights the freshest local seafood, line-caught and sustainably sourced from local fishermen. Combining innovative techniques with global culinary traditions, FISH offers guests a chance to savour the rich flavours of the ocean while experiencing the dynamic vibrancy of Maldivian culture.

The resort’s refreshed concept, SIP, will offer a dining experience inspired by Latin America, blending its vibrant culinary heritage with a relaxed island setting. Guests can enjoy a selection of bold, flavor-driven dishes paired with signature cocktails, all set against the backdrop of stunning sunset views.

FIRE, the resort’s Beachside Smokehouse concept, will elevate the BBQ experience by offering wood-fired cuisine with high-quality steak cuts and chef’s table service in a stunning beachfront setting. This communal dining experience is designed to bring guests together over expertly grilled meats and seafood, infused with smoky flavours that create an intimate and lively atmosphere. Whether dining under the stars or watching the waves crash nearby, FIRE promises an unforgettable experience where food and the island’s natural beauty come together.

An Unmatched Collection of Experiences

In addition to its reimagined accommodations and dining offerings, W Maldives continues to redefine the island getaway experience with its exclusive programming and events. With a calendar filled with exciting, immersive experiences, the resort’s dynamic lineup will include Marriott Bonvoy Moments in 2025, along with a variety of planned collaborations with world-renowned chefs, mixologists, artists, and brands. One such highlight will be the exclusive W Presents event in March, which promises to deliver a unique cultural and social experience infused with the vibrant music that is signature to W Hotels. This carefully curated programming will offer guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in local and global creativity, adding an unforgettable layer to their stay.

Guests can also explore the vibrant marine life of the Maldives with a variety of exciting water experiences. Whether through snorkelling in the resort’s world-renowned house reef, diving with the DOWN UNDER Dive Centre, or indulging in water sports through the WAVE Water Sports Centre, guests are invited to dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant aquatic life just steps from the beach.

For those seeking ultimate privacy, Gaathafushi Island, the resort’s private island, offers a secluded escape where guests can disconnect from the world and experience the ultimate in luxury. Whether it’s spending the day enjoying the natural beauty of the island or booking a night for a Robinson Crusoe-style retreat, Gaathafushi provides a completely personalised experience.

Unrivalled Wellness and Fitness

W Maldives also offers a range of wellness and fitness experiences designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The AWAY Spa is the ultimate escape for relaxation, offering a wide range of treatments that combine natural ingredients with soothing therapies, all set against the backdrop of the island’s turquoise ocean. From massages to body scrubs, each treatment is designed to restore balance and enhance well-being.

 

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The post Flyadeal targets 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Flyadeal expects to carry over 75,000 pilgrims on dedicated international charters during this year’s Hajj season. The figure represents yet another significant milestone for flyadeal which has been scaling up the number of overseas Hajj flights since 2023.

From 35,000 pilgrims flown by flyadeal into the Kingdom last year – up 35 per cent on 2023 – the number is expected to more than double to 75,000 in 2025, with the airline operating additional widebody charters into Jeddah and Madinah, gateway to the Holy City of Makkah.

flyadeal is also stepping up its year-round Umrah services, which will continue to operate from Turkey, Iraq and Uzbekistan, with the UK, Thailand, India and countries in Africa and Central Asia set to be included for 2025.

The growth plans were announced during the 4th edition of the annual Hajj Conference and Exhibition that took place at the Superdome in Jeddah under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and organised by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

flyadeal joined sister companies Saudia and SGS (Saudi Ground Services) under the umbrella of parent Saudi Group – this year’s strategic sponsor – with a joint exhibition stand promoting products and services to visiting Hajj committees, ministries and tour operators from around the world.

Dr.Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah in the Kingdom, together with HE Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia, and HE Engr. Ibrahim bin Abdulrahaman Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, were among the many visiting dignitaries.

Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “This year’s Hajj forum was a perfect opportunity to give visiting delegations and travel companies an insight into flyadeal’s Hajj preparations for 2025, our year-round Umrah plans, and exciting growth of our scheduled operations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South Asia over the next 12 months and beyond.

“Having operated two successful seasons of Hajj charters with 120 flights from 15 destinations across seven countries last year, we now turn to 2025 during which we expect to carry around 75,000 pilgrims as we bring in more widebody aircraft dedicated to our biggest ever international Hajj uplift. In addition, we are conducting more year-round Umrah flights as widebody aircraft enable us to operate from further afield including the UK, Thailand and India.

“Running a Hajj operation during an intense one month period every year is effectively like running a separate business from our day-to-day scheduled services. Our dedicated teams work tirelessly in coordination with our travel partners in the Kingdom and overseas to provide a unique end-to-end experience.”

Rakan Alotaibi, flyadeal Director of Hajj & Umrah and Commercial Regulatory Affairs, added: “We signed a number of Hajj agreements with delegations last week followed by their visits to our Jeddah headquarters to learn more about flyadeal and our operations first hand as we gear up with national pride for what promises to be an extremely busy and gratifying summer season carrying so many pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

“flyadeal remains committed to the very important, yet complex, annual Hajj movements for which we put in tremendous effort beyond expectations ensuring they run as smoothly as possible to support the dreams and aspirations of first-time Hajj pilgrims, many of whom are are also first-time fliers.”

flyadeal was among a host of travel companies, including airlines, hotels, ground transport operators, agents and tour firms to showcase their products to delegates during the Jeddah event.

 

 

 

 

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The post Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort raises the bar for beachfront luxury appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is setting a new standard for beachfront luxury in Bali for everyone from family groups to the solo business traveller.

This vibrant Balinese getaway combines timeless elegance with modern comfort in the heart of Kuta, making it the perfect place for personal escapes and romantic jaunts.

From its prime location to its exceptional amenities, everything offered at Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort was crafted with each guest’s comfort and enjoyment in mind.

Ashley Lai, cluster general manager for both Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort and Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk, said of the resort: “It’s more than a place to stay, it’s a destination. With refreshed spaces, family-friendly experiences, and unmatched dining, we create moments that last a lifetime.”

Space to relax and have fun

At Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, guests are welcomed into spacious premium rooms offering the best in beachfront comfort.

All of these feature private balconies with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. 

Also, families can enjoy the outdoor pool with panoramic views, while kids explore the Kids Club, giving parents a well-deserved break. 

For an upgraded Suite Experience, the Family Suite includes a connected room with a sofa bed, kids’ tent amenities, buffet breakfast, Jewelry Box Afternoon Tea, and exclusive perks like a one-time minibar, VIP amenities, and a special family room setup. 

Kids dine free and guests receive 15 percent off dining, including Sunday Brunch, making every moment special.

A stunning new look

Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort was recently given a fresh new look.

The refurbishment resulted in welcoming spaces with a community vibe. 

The resort’s transformed lobby experience encourages guests to mingle, enjoying live music whilst relaxing into an exceptional evening at &More by Sheraton.

&More by Sheraton is the newest oceanfront venue perched high above the stunning Kuta Beach.

A home for culinary excellence

At this resort, Bene Italian Kitchen serves authentic Italian fare with a rooftop setting.

As stated above, &More by Sheraton is a social lounge featuring coffee, pastries, and creative dishes with oceanfront views and live music. 

Daily Social blends local and international flavors in a welcoming, community-friendly space. 

Every meal is more than just dining, each venue offers breathtaking views and the best sunset in Kuta, creating a true sensory journey.

An exquisite location

When one is at the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, one finds a home away from home in the Heart of Kuta.

Everything is within reach here from exciting nightlife to sipping beautifully mixed cocktails at the nearby WXYZ Bar at Aloft Bali Kuta.

One also has quick access to local markets and a world-class shopping mall at the Beachwalk.

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The post Japan Airlines takes the world’s first aircraft with large-scale riblet coating to the skies appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Japan Airlines Co, Ltd, in partnership with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and O-Well Corporation, has applied riblet-shaped coating to the majority of the fuselage of one of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

Applied onto aircraft JA868J, this marks the first time in the global aviation industry that the riblet coating has been used anywhere in the world. 

The aircraft will also be the first finished with such a coating to be used on international routes.

The riblet coating aircraft was taken up for its inaugural flight earlier this month.

Innovation towards decarbonisation

As JAL, JAXA, and O-Well are all promoting the decarbonisation of the global aviation sector, their joined teams applied the riblet coating to the aircraft’s exterior using the Paint-to-Paint Method, a technology continuously improved by O-Well and JAXA, and have been validating its durability and fuel efficiency improvement effects. 

The teams have been testing the durability of the riblet coating on JAL’s domestic Boeing aircraft since July 2022.

Since November 2023, they have confirmed the fuel efficiency improvement effects by applying the coating to a large area of the fuselage bottom. 

The Paint-to-Paint Method, which applies riblet shapes directly to the paint film, is expected to reduce weight and improve durability compared to riblet processing using decals or films.

This time, wind tunnel tests and numerical analyses by JAXA confirmed the drag reduction effect on international aircraft, and the development of a riblet coating system by O-Well that can accommodate larger aircraft has enabled the expansion of the application area to the upper fuselage of international aircraft. 

Long-haul flights on international routes are expected to yield further fuel efficiency improvements.

In the aircraft with the newly applied coating, the drag reduction rate during cruising is 0.24 percent, which is expected to result in an annual reduction of approximately 119 tonnes of fuel consumption and about 381 tons of CO2 emissions. 

This is equivalent to the annual CO2 absorption of approximately 27,000 cedar trees.

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The post FL Technics Indonesia gets approval from Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority has given its approval for FL Technics Indonesia to deliver various aviation maintenance services.

The company is now authorised to deliver a comprehensive range of aviation maintenance services at both I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali and Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. 

The approval underscores FL Technics Indonesia’s commitment to supporting the continued growth and development of the aviation sector, particularly in Bali which has grown over the past few years as a vital hub for international air travel.

FL Technics Indonesia chief executive Martynas Grigas said: “Receiving CASA approval is a pivotal moment for FL Technics Indonesia, as it not only strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive aviation services for Boeing 737s (Classic, NG, and MAX) and Airbus CEO and NEO models at both DPS and CGK, but also supports Indonesia’s broader goals for tourism and aviation.”

Grigas added that the approval is in alignment with the Indonesian government’s ongoing drive to boost the country’s tourist industry.

He said: “Our expanded capabilities will help ensure a safe and efficient travel experience for visitors to Bali.”

A necessary team for a booming global hub

As Bali is one of the world’s leading tropical destinations, it receives more than 250 flights from major Australian cities a week, roughly 40 flights a day.

This growing demand for air travel between Australia and Bali underscores the importance of reliable aviation services. 

By receiving CASA approval, FL Technics Indonesia is poised to support this demand, ensuring safe travel for tourists and bolstering the island’s tourism industry.

As the first company to offer extensive aviation maintenance services in Bali, FL Technics Indonesia leads the way in meeting the growing needs of airlines operating in the region. 

This approval enables the company to offer critical maintenance services, playing an important role in maintaining the safety and reliability of aircraft flying into Bali, which will have a positive impact on both the local economy and the broader aviation sector in Indonesia.

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The post Cebu Pacific to move several Cebgo flights from Manila to Clark appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific announced the gradual transfer of its domestic turboprop aircraft operations from Terminal 2 of Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

From 30th March of this year, Cebu Pacific’s domestic Cebgo flights for destinations Masbate and Siargao to and from Manila will be assigned to the Clark International Airport in the nearby province of Pampanga to the north of the capital.

This move is in compliance with a resolution issued by the Manila Slot Coordination Committee of the Philippine Department of Transportation last 3rd December 2024.

At the same time, services from Manila to Surigao will be cancelled and passengers will have the option to connect via the Central Philippine city of Cebu.

Helping passengers through the shift

Amidst these changes, Cebu Pacific recognises the importance of managing airport capacity effectively.

It is hoped that the changes will lead to improved passenger experience and greater public convenience.

At the same time, the airline announced that all passengers affected by this transfer will be notified in the coming days.

These passengers will also be offered the following options:

• Free Rebooking: Rebook without fare difference for travel up to 30 days from original flight date. The fare difference will apply if the travel period is beyond 30 days from the original flight date.
• Travel Fund: Store the amount in a virtual CEB wallet and use this to either book a new flight or pay for add-ons.
• Outright Refund: A full refund of the passenger’s ticket.

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The post Flyadeal joins IATA appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

flyadeal, Saudi Arabia’s youngest and region’s fastest growing low-cost carrier, has joined IATA, the airline industry’s leading trade association. Membership of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents an illustrious list of over 320 global passenger and cargo air service providers, followed a comprehensive process by flyadeal to secure IATA’s Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), the industry’s highest safety accreditation.

Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “It’s an extreme honour for flyadeal to be welcomed into an industry institute that IATA is. The International Air Transport Association is steeped in history representing the interests of members with a single collective voice.

“As we’ve grown in stature, building our operations since our inception in 2017 to a considerable size that is continuing to develop at pace with operational safety our priority, it was inevitable IATA membership was a must-join body. We now sit alongside our full-service sister airline Saudia which has been an established IATA member for decades. As Saudia and IATA celebrate their 80th anniversaries this year, it is also a moment of pride for flyadeal to be part of the trade association in such a milestone year.”

Kamil Alawadhi, IATA Regional Vice President Africa and Middle East, said: “We are delighted to welcome flyadeal as the newest member of the IATA family. As a low-cost carrier, their inclusion highlights the importance of flyadeal’s contribution in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s rapid aviation growth and reinforces IATA’s role in representing airlines of all business models.

“Saudi Arabia has made remarkable progress in developing a world-class aviation sector, and flydeal’s membership reflects the country’s commitment to expanding connectivity and fostering sustainable industry growth. We commend the government’s vision for the sector, and IATA remains dedicated to working with all stakeholders in Saudi Arabia to support its ambitious aviation strategy ensuring a thriving industry that benefits travellers, businesses, and the broader economy.”

Celebrating the official membership, flyadeal CEO Steven Greenway and his management team hosted an IATA delegation led by Kamil Alawadhi, Regional Vice President Africa and Middle East, for a cake-cutting ceremony and new partner workshop at the airline’s headquarters in Jeddah.

IATA works to support and advance the aviation industry by developing global standards, advocating for policies that promote safe, efficient, and sustainable air travel, and providing essential services such as training, financial systems, and operational guidance. Through collaboration with governments, industry stakeholders, and international organisations, IATA helps shape the future of aviation, ensuring that it remains a vital driver of global connectivity and economic growth.

As a member, flyadeal is able to participate in a variety of IATA working groups relating to safety, flight and ground operations, sustainability and digital transformation, all of which the entire industry is collectively embracing. With flyadeal stepping up engagement with the travel trade, IATA membership will also enable quicker and more efficient agency payment processing through the association’s Billing Settlement Plan (BSP).

In November 2024, flyadeal cleared IATA’s Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), a stringent appraisal that covers an airline’s operational safety ensuring compliance to the toughest of rules and practices governing aviation protocols. These include aircraft engineering, maintenance, flight operations, inflight cabin services, ground handling, cargo and security.

 

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The post Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa attains Green Globe Certification appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa recently achieved the prestigious Green Globe Certification in recognition of its ongoing sustainability measures.

Marriott executives and hotel officials recognise that the certification is a step forward in their collective journey towards building a greener, more sustainable world.

In a media update, hotel officials referred to the Green Globe Certification as a reflection of the Le Méridien team’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Thilamaafushi island whilst offering meaningful and eco-conscious experiences to our guests.

Meaningful initiatives

Aside from exceptionally luxurious amenities, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa also gained recognition for its state-of-the-art 430 sqm hydroponic greenhouse, one of the largest in the Maldives.

The resort has also spearheaded marine conservation programs and initiatives, including solar power generation measures and plastic-free solutions.

Indeed, sustainability is woven into every aspect of the resort’s operations.

Through Marriott Bonvoy’s Good Travel program, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invites its guests to help make a positive impact through curated experiences in environmental protection, community engagement, and marine conservation. 

By doing so, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa and its guests are shaping a future where travel leaves a legacy of care for the planet.

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The post Akasa Air welcomes its 27th aircraft in India   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline received delivery of its 27^th aircraft, continuing its unprecedented expansion trajectory. The first leg of the delivery flight commenced  from Seattle, USA, to Keflavik, Iceland, and concluded with the final leg from Larnaca, Cyprus, to  Bengaluru, India. Bearing registration number VT-YBD, the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft arrived at  Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on 29 January 2025.

Commenting on the occasion, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air said: “At Akasa, our  vision is to build an airline that transcends generations, while offering an experience that is rooted in  trust, comfort, and reliability. Every addition to our fleet further cements our path to becoming one of  the top 30 airlines by the turn of this decade and strengthens our ability to connect people, places and  cultures across India and beyond.

We are delighted to welcome our 27^th aircraft within a span of 30 months of commencing operations.  Akasa’s unmatched growth exemplifies the potential that India holds as an aviation market, and we are  excited at the prospect of becoming the airline that supports the nation to soar ever higher in the skies.”

With a steadfast focus on growth, service excellence, and employee centricity, Akasa Air is dedicated  to transforming the aviation landscape by making air travel increasingly accessible for a larger number  of Indians through reliable operations and category redefining offerings at affordable fares. Akasa is  home to a diverse workforce of over 4000 employees. As it expands, it remains committed to creating  some of the industry’s most exciting career growth opportunities for pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and  other aviation professionals, fostering a strong and sustainable future for all.

Akasa Air has registered unmatched growth since its inception in August 2022. In 2021, Akasa Air  placed its initial order of 72 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which was followed by an order of four Boeing  737 MAX 8 aircraft in June 2023. In January 2024, the airline placed another landmark order of 150  Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, becoming the first Indian airline to reach an order book of 226 aircraft within  17 months of commencing operations.

The airline has now taken delivery of 27 aircraft and is on track to receive deliveries of another 199  aircraft over the next seven years. Moreover, the 737 MAX family provides greater range and fuel  efficiency, reducing fuel use and carbon emissions by 20% compared to those it replaces, reinforcing  the airline’s commitment to sustainability. In addition, the 737 MAX is a quieter airplane with a 40%  smaller noise footprint than replacement airplanes.

Akasa Air’s consistent on-time leadership, operational efficiencies and extremely positive customer  feedback have made it a preferred carrier in India, serving over 15 million passengers since its launch  in August 2022. Akasa Air currently connects with 22 domestic and five international cities, namely  Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Delhi, Guwahati, Agartala, Pune, Lucknow, Goa,  Hyderabad, Varanasi, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Port Blair, Ayodhya, Gwalior, Srinagar,  Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Doha (Qatar), Jeddah, Riyadh (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), Abu Dhabi (UAE) and  Kuwait City (Kuwait).

 

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The post Air New Zealand: “2024 was a busy year for us” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air New Zealand reports that 2024 proved to be yet another monumental year, hitting numerous milestones as it gears up to celebrate its 85th anniversary.

Airline CEO Greg Foran expressed gratitude to everyone who travelled with Air New Zealand in 2024 whilst acknowledging the hard work and dedication of his team both on the ground and in the air.

Foran said: “Our Air New Zealanders’ professionalism and grit kept the airline moving, even while navigating significant challenges such as ongoing engine availability issues.”

He also pointed out that, despite such issues, the airline hit several major milestones in 2024, including its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner state-of-the-art interior retrofitting in Singapore.

A year of significant achievements

In 2024, the airline’s 23rd safety video Every Point Counts featuring Kiwi basketball star Steven Adams was released and became an instant hit, amassing 30.4 million views globally.

At the same time, Airpoints membership soared in 2024, with 414,000 new members joining, bringing the total to 4.8 million. 

Nearly 300,000 items were sold on the Airpoints Store, with the Huski Beer Cooler emerging as the most popular product.

With regard to travel trends, Auckland to Sydney was the most popular short-haul route, while Auckland to Singapore topped long-haul travel. 

Bali continued to dominate as a holiday hotspot, with Air New Zealand expanding its service to a year-round schedule.

2024 also saw the introduction of Live Chat which offered a new way for customers to get in touch, resulting in 265,936 engagements.

This was also the year when the Mangōpare Air New Zealand Pilot Cadetship received more than 2000 applications for its inaugural intake, with 30 cadets selected to begin their training journey.

Another milestone year

This year, Air New Zealand prepares to celebrate its 85th birthday which happens this April.

For this, Foran says the airline remains deeply committed to connecting New Zealanders with each other and New Zealand to the world.

He said: “Here’s to building on this legacy and achieving many more milestones in the years ahead.”

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