The post Global investment in travel and tourism surpassed $1TN in 2024, up 9.9% year-on-year: WTTC appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

At its 25^th Global Summit in Rome the World Travel & Tourism Council  (WTTC) launched its latest report, revealing that Europe remains the beating heart of  international tourism, with five of the world’s top 10 most powerful Travel & Tourism  markets by GDP.  

The return of the WTTC Global Summit to Europe, for the first time since the pandemic reflects the region’s enduring global leadership. Italy’s position as a G7 nation and as host of this year’s Global Summit further underlines its  leadership role, building on hosting last year’s first-ever G7 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting.

According to the latest data, Italy’s Travel & Tourism sector reached $248.3BN last year,  underpinned by strong international visitor spend and a booming meetings and events  industry.  Germany, the world’s third most powerful Travel & Tourism market, contributed $525BN to  its GDP in 2024.

Despite losing £2.2BN international visitors spending last year, the UK added $367BN to its  economy, maintaining its position as one of the strongest and most dynamic markets  worldwide.

France, the world’s most visited destination, generated over $289BN from Travel & Tourism  in 2024, whilst Spain, the second most visited country in the world, added $270BN.

This broad-based growth demonstrates Europe’s ability to blend heritage with innovation,  maintain global competitiveness, and lead the way in sustainable tourism development.

WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara said: “These results tell a story of strength and  opportunity. The U.S. remains the world’s largest Travel & Tourism market, China is surging  back, Europe is powering ahead, and destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa are delivering record growth. This year, we are forecasting that our sector will contribute an  historic $2.1TN in 2025, surpassing the previous high of $1.9TN in 2019, by $164BN.

“As Italy hosts this year’s Global Summit, its role as a G7 leader showcases the importance of  tourism in driving economies, creating jobs, and shaping our shared future.”

Around the World 

The report also reveals that the U.S. remains the world’s most powerful Travel & Tourism  market, contributing $2.6TN to GDP in 2024, with its domestic market remaining the  strongest in the world, sustaining millions of jobs and underpinning sector resilience.

However, WTTC forecasts international visitor spending in the U.S. will fall by $12.5BN in  2025, leaving growth at just +0.7%. WTTC has warned that without destination promotion,  traveller-friendly policies, and reduced visa costs, it could lose its competitive edge.

China, the world’s second-largest Travel & Tourism market, contributed $1.64TN to its  economy in 2024, and is forecast to surge by 22.7% in 2025, adding $260BN to its economy,  highlighting China’s rapid return to international prominence and its pivotal role in shaping  global travel flows.

Japan, the world’s fifth largest Travel & Tourism economy with a $310.5BN contribution in  2024, is forecast to add a further $13.8BN to its GDP this year to reach almost $325BN.

Travel & Tourism is now growing faster than the consumer goods sector, showing how  people increasingly value experiences over material goods.

The Economic Impact Research Trends report shows that Travel & Tourism is cementing its  role as a cornerstone of the global economy.

Middle East Momentum 

The Middle East remains one of the fastest-growing regions in the world for Travel &  Tourism, with Saudi Arabia continuing to stand out as a global powerhouse, with inbound  visitor spend surging and infrastructure investment reaching record levels.

Across the region, capital is flowing into airports, cruise terminals, and cutting-edge  hospitality projects, signalling long-term confidence in its ambition to become a global  tourism hub.

Jobs Boom Across the World

According to the report, Travel & Tourism supported 357MN jobs in 2024 and is set to rise to  371MN in 2025, along with an increase in the sector’s share of global employment.

By 2035, one in eight jobs worldwide will be supported by Travel & Tourism, with an  additional 91MN new jobs supported, the majority in the Asia-Pacific region, resulting in one  in three new jobs globally supported by the sector.

Long-Term Confidence 

Confidence in Travel & Tourism remains unshakable. Global investment in the sector  surpassed $1TN in 2024, up 9.9% year-on-year, and is forecast to continue climbing in 2025.

The U.S., China, Saudi Arabia, and France together accounted for more than half a trillion  dollars of that investment. 

Italy attracted €11.4BN in 2024, reinforcing its position as one of Europe’s most attractive  destinations for sustainable and innovative tourism development.

The Global Summit is hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the  Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Other WTTC Partners include Antonio Lefebvre d’Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philantrophy, Arsenale  Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia, and  Trip.com Group.

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand names four new deputy governors appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced the appointment of four new deputy governors as part of its annual organisational reshuffle.

By doing so, TAT is able to strengthen leadership across key strategic areas.

At the same time, this annual move reflects TAT’s commitment to advancing its long-term tourism vision under a structure led by current governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and supported by eight deputy governors overseeing administration, policy, product development, marketing, and innovation. 

Kiatphaibool remarked: “This new leadership structure will strengthen TAT’s ability to deliver on the ‘New Thailand Vision 2026,’ ensuring that our tourism growth is innovative, inclusive, and sustainable.”

Meet the new deputy governors

Akkarawit Taphasit was promoted to deputy governor for administration, having previously served as executive director of the Tourism Investment Promotion Department.

Meanwhile, Chuwit Sirivajjakul was promoted to deputy governor for policy and planning following his previous role as executive director for the East Asia Region.

Nat Kruthasoot was named to the post of  deputy governor for tourism products and business following his stint as executive director of the Events Department.

TAT’s new deputy governor for international marketing in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas is Chiravadee Khunsub, her appointment becoming official for a position she has held since April of this year.

Prior to her appointment, Khunsub served as deputy governor for tourism products and business.

These latest appointments bolster the TAT leadership team which currently consists of deputy governor for international marketing in Asia and the South Pacific Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai; deputy governor for digitalisation, research, and development Kittipong Prapattong, deputy governor for marketing communications Nithee Seeprae, and deputy governor for the domestic market Apichai Chatchalermkit.

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The post Andhra Pradesh focuses on Buddhist Trails, Tribal Tourism and Global Events for 2025–2029 Growth appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Padmarani Seela

On the sidelines of at the Business Leisure Travel and MICE Exhibition (BLTM 2025), TDM interviewed Padmarani Seela, Chief Marketing Officer and Communication Officer, AP Tourism Authority. She shared more on the popular destinations of the state, development and strategy for the growth of Tourism in Andhra Pradesh.

Tirupati Balaji is the most visited Hindu temple in the world

Sharing more information on the state of Andhra Pradesh as far as tourism numbers go, she said: “In terms of numbers we are at third place. That is mostly because of tourists visiting Tirupati Balaji, it is the most visited Hindu temple in the world and a lot of tourists keep coming. However, we want to be number three in terms of centralisation, like spreading out to other places  and other segments as well, like Buddhist tourism, beach tourism and niche segments like handicrafts.”

Elaborating on the most popular destination for international tourists in Andhra Pradesh she added: “Currently, I think, apart from Temple tourism, we can also promote Araku Valley, which is good for tribal tourism and also for Coffee plantation, it is a beautiful destination to visit. Also, Buddhist tourism is popular around Vizag, we have certain circuits, Amaravati and Vizag (Visakhapatnam).

Need to provide last mile connectivity and develop infrastructure

Inbound tourists’ numbers to India have been dwindling, sharing more on what is missing she added: “There is the need to provide last mile connectivity. And also, infrastructure wise, we need to develop much more, and we have to coordinate with other departments and other states as well, making it very easy for inbound tourists to come to a particular state like Andhra Pradesh.”

On initiatives taken to attract development she said: “We had come out with a new tourism policy for 2024 to 2029 where we offer investors many incentives. And apart from that, marketing wise, we have fixed 91 events going on in the state. So out of that we have earmarked eight mega events, which will be promoted in a big way. And we are just making our way to bring people into Andhra Pradesh and make our presence felt.”

Buddhist trails and Tribal tourism being developed

On the eight mega events and festivals she added: “We have Flamingo Festival, and we have Gandikota, which is called Grand Canyon of India. And we have Visakha Utsav, it’s Vizag Beach festival and along with that yard festival as well. And we have Amravati, where they have literary, music and dance festivals. In Araku Valley there is the Chali Festival. So, all these events are very unique in their own way, and which can attract tourists from all over India, as well as inbound.”

On the varied markets she said: “Southeast Asian travellers are more interested in Buddhist trials. So we are trying to promote Buddhists trails. And for European and American markets, I think tribal tourism is the niche point where they are much interested. And also e few countries are interested in handlooms and handicrafts. We had a team from Sri Lankan, and they were interested in only Handlooms. So, we have different markets, catering to different USPs of Andhra Pradesh.”

She concluded with: “We want more of influencers and bloggers coming to Andhra Pradesh. Currently, we are just making our presence felt to start with, and from here we are connecting to tour operators and all stakeholders from all over Andhra Pradesh, as well as India and also abroad. We are attending international events as well; next we will be going to WTM London.”

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The post Global air travel to reach 9.8 billion passengers in 2025: ACI appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Representative Image

Global air travel is projected to reach 9.8 billion passengers for 2025 according to Airports Council International (ACI) World’s newly released World Airport Traffic Report (WATR). While international travel is driving growth, regional disparities and medium-term challenges signal a varied outlook.

ACI World’s flagship annual report draws from over 2,800 airports across more than 185 countries and territories, offering the most extensive overview of the global airport industry.

ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci said: “Air travel is on track to reach 9.8 billion passengers in 2025, underscoring aviation’s role as a driver of global mobility and economic growth. International travel remains the main engine of growth, but regional variations reflect a mix of structural strengths, policy challenges, and evolving travel patterns. To sustain air travel demand globally, regulators must foster policies and frameworks that enable improved connectivity, long-term resilience and sustainable growth.”

Global highlights

• 2025 global passenger traffic is projected to reach 9.8 billion passengers, reflecting a 3.7% Year-on-Year (YoY) growth from 2024.
• International traffic is expected to grow 5.3% in 2025, compared to 2.4% for domestic traffic.
• By mid-2025 Year-to-Date (YTD), global passenger traffic was up 2.1% YoY; international traffic grew 4.9% YoY, while domestic traffic contracted 0.7% YoY.

Regional highlights

• Africa: Forecasted to reach 273 million passengers in 2025 (+9.4% YoY), led by Northern Africa and boosted by tourism and rising middle-class demand.
• Asia-Pacific: Forecasted to reach 3.6 billion passengers in 2025 (+5.6% YoY), with Southern and Southeast Asia driving growth; East Asia`s outlook remains cautious.
• Europe: Forecasted to reach over 2.5 billion passengers in 2025 (+3.6% YoY); international travel leading growth, while domestic volumes lag due to rail gains.
• Latin America–Caribbean: Forecasted to reach 789 million passengers in 2025 (+4.1% YoY); momentum supported by leisure demand and low-cost carrier expansion.
• Middle East: Forecasted to reach 466 million passengers in 2025 (+5.9% YoY); underpinned by investment and tourism, though risks from geopolitical instability remain.
• North America: Forecasted to reach 2.1 billion passengers in 2025.

Expanding aviation market, varied trajectories

Global passenger traffic continues to grow unevenly across regions, reflecting a mix of structural strengths, policy challenges, and evolving travel patterns. Emerging aviation markets such as in Africa, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America are driving growth, supported by rising demand and a growing presence of low-cost carriers.

In contrast, advanced aviation markets—including parts of East Asia, Europe, and North America—face a more uncertain outlook amid geopolitical tensions, demographic shifts (such as ageing in some regions), and changes in traveller behaviour (such as uncertainty in travel and visa policies).

Overall, the global aviation market is expanding, but its trajectory remains sensitive to geopolitical events, macroeconomic conditions and region-specific headwinds.

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The post Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve turns Pink this October appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the ultra-luxurious seafront sanctuary in Southern Thailand’s Krabi province, will glow pink this October as it marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month by transforming into a sanctuary of solidarity and showcasing a series of inspiring activities dedicated to the promotion of women’s health.

Staged every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international campaign which strives to increase understanding and reduce the risk of breast cancer, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide. In a bold commitment to the cause, Phulay Bay will become a beacon of hope as Sala Srichan, the resort’s elegant Thai pavilion, is illuminated in a soothing yet striking pink hue for the entire month – taking its place alongside iconic global landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building, and Sydney Opera House. Reinforcing this important message, the resort’s restaurants and bars will also present a dedicated selection of “Phulay Bay Turns Pink” dishes and drinks.

Phulay Bay is also delighted to welcome Dr. Shagnika Pradhan to host a full month of customized wellness programs dedicated to women’s health. A naturopathy and yogic science specialist with seven years of experience, Dr. Shagnika is an expert in areas such as pain and stress management, traditional Chinese medicines, herbal remedies, nutrition, healing, lifestyle, and yoga. Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, she will invite men and women to embark on holistic wellness journeys that connect them with the five Ayurvedic elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space.

Earth (or “prithvi”) programs are rooted in natural nourishment with yogic postures, nutrition, self massage demonstrations and cooling clay packs to help guests feel fully grounded, while Water (“jal”) sessions promote spiritual cleansing, with open chest poses, hot & cold compression, breathing practices, and cooling techniques to enhance the flow of energy. Fire (“agni”) is dedicated to boosting immunity and vitality with abdominal yoga postures, a castor oil pack, herbal tea making, and chakra meditation, and Air (“vayu”) focuses on breathing work and energy flow with respiration exercises, aromatherapy, and self acupressure techniques to target the body’s qi flow and meridians. Finally, Space (“akash”) promotes awareness and encourages healing with heart chakra meditation, mantra chanting, singing bowls, and gratitude rituals.

As part of The Ritz-Carlton’s “Community Footprints” initiative, the resort will extend its duty of care to its associates – its treasured ladies and gentlemen. Phulay Bay has collaborated with Wattanapat International Hospital, whose medical experts will visit the resort to offer breast cancer awareness training, which could prove vital in helping to identify the disease at its early stages.

“At Phulay Bay, we care deeply for the health and wellbeing of all our ladies, gentlemen, and cherished guests. As the world marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, we want to make a meaningful impact by encouraging all women to gain a greater understanding of this awful disease. By combining the striking symbolism of our bright pink sala with fundraising initiatives, and expert-led wellness sessions by Dr. Shagnika Pradhan, we are striving to make a real difference to the lives of women,” said Mr. Vidya Sagar, the resort’s General Manager.

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The post GetJet Airlines to Provide ACMI Capacity for Etihad Airways Winter 2025/26 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Lithuanian ACMI and charter operator GetJet Airlines has signed a seasonal wet-lease agreement with Etihad Airways, under which two Airbus A320 family aircraft from the GetJet fleet will be based at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi for the winter 2025/26 season.

The two aircraft will operate flights on behalf of Etihad Airways, providing additional flexibility to the airline’s regional network during the autumn and early winter travel period. Dubai-based Aleksandr Celiadin, Founder of GetJet Aviation Holdings, said: “We are honoured to be chosen to support Etihad Airways this winter. Etihad is recognised worldwide for its excellence, and it is a privilege to contribute to their network. At GetJet Airlines, we strive for the highest quality in our operations and remain fully focused on adjusting to any needs our customers have.”

Starting 1 October 2025, two aircraft from GetJet Aviation Holdings will support Etihad Airways’ operations out of Abu Dhabi. One Airbus A320 will be operated by GetJet Airlines, while the second will be provided by Airhub Airlines, both part of the holding. Together, they will serve routes to Amman, Beirut, as well as selected services to Cairo and Muscat.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, operates flights to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. The airline has just recently been recognised as a Five-Star Global Airline by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) for 2026, a prestigious rating based entirely on passenger feedback.

GetJet Aviation Holdings, through its airlines,  operates a fleet of 16 aircraft in total, including Boeing 737-800, Airbus A320, and A321 models. The company is headquartered in Vilnius and has a commercial office in Dubai.

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The post Red Sea Global launches Shura Links appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Red Sea Global (RSG) has officially opened Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, on Shura Island at The Red Sea. Designed by renowned golf course architect Brian Curley and managed by Golf Saudi, the par-72, 7,400-yard course offers a distinct coastal links experience that celebrates the island’s natural topography. Eighteen holes wind through native mangroves and sweeping dunes before drifting along the Red Sea shoreline in typical links fashion. The course was designed for minimal environmental interference, reflecting RSG’s regenerative tourism values.

“The opening of Shura Links is a landmark achievement in the Kingdom’s pursuit of global leadership in sports and tourism. It reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and underscores PIF’s commitment to unlocking new sectors that diversify our economy and elevate quality of life. Situated at the heart of The Red Sea, Shura Links is more than a world-class golf course — it is a powerful realization of how this unique destination can be transformed into an engine for investment, luxury tourism, and sustainable opportunities for future generations,” said H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Chairman of Golf Saudi.

A Social Hub Anchored by a Beachfront Clubhouse

A vibrant focal point for golfers and visitors alike, the beachfront clubhouse serves as the heart of social life at Shura Links. Inspired by native flora and fauna, the clubhouse offers panoramic views across the eighteenth green and features elevated dining, retail, and relaxation areas designed to enhance the visitor experience.

“Shura Links sets a new benchmark for the game of golf in the region. It’s more than just a course – it’s a place to connect, challenge yourself, and experience the full beauty of The Red Sea. This is another proud milestone in our mission to reshape global tourism through sustainability and design, and a significant step in building Red Sea Global’s diverse sports portfolio, aligning perfectly with Vision 2030’s goal of establishing Saudi Arabia as a premier global sporting destination,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.

A Premium Golfing Experience

Highlights include:

• Family-friendly adventure putting course, adjacent to the clubhouse and perfect for all ages and skill levels
• Premium Callaway practice balls, used on professional tours
• Curated golf retail boutique, offering leading brands, accessories and Shura Links merchandise
• Elevated clubhouse experience, with exceptional dining indoors on the terrace, or by the pool
• Expansive grass practice range and putting green, plus a fully grassed short game area
• Tailored green fee options for 9 and 18-hole play
• Professional golf coaching, including lessons for individuals, families, and groups, led by an on-site PGA-qualified professional

Brian Curley, Principal of Curley-Wagner Golf Design, said: “From the onset, Shura Links was designed to blend seamlessly with its natural, brilliant white, sand dunes surroundings, while delivering a one-of-a-kind golf experience. It’s a course built to challenge seasoned pros from the tournament tees, yet the ‘find your ball’ theme is also inviting for those trying golf for the first time. With Shura Links opening its doors, golfers from around the world can experience its unique character and world-class design.”

A Landmark Destination at The Red Sea

Shura Links is located on Shura Island, the heart of The Red Sea, which will begin to open to guests in the coming weeks. Phase one of the launch includes the debut of SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental hotels. It will eventually be home to 11 world-class resorts, all of which will open across the next few months. This includes: Faena; Fairmont; Four Seasons; Grand Hyatt; Jumeirah; Miraval; Raffles; and Rosewood.

As well as resorts, Shura Island is the setting for a collection of exclusive homes. The first properties available to buy on the island were announced earlier this year and will be ready for handover at the end of 2025. Residents will have access to all of the island’s entertainments, as well as its pristine beaches and azure waters, while also offering seamless access to the wider destination and iconic resorts.

Red Sea International Airport (RSI), which is situated within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours’ flying time for 85% of the world’s population, is the gateway to The Red Sea destination. It is already welcoming a regular schedule of domestic and international flights. Most recently it was announced that Qatar Airways will operate direct flights to RSI three times a week from next month, with further air lift expected to be announced soon.

When fully complete, the island will offer guests unparalleled access to pristine natural landscapes, luxurious amenities, high-end food and beverage and retail, signature experiences and cultural programming, making it the beating heart of this world-leading tourism destination.

Noah Alireza, Chief Executive Officer of Golf Saudi, said: “Through our close partnership with Red Sea Global, we reaffirm our commitment to building an integrated investment environment that positions Saudi Arabia as a premier destination where natural beauty, innovation, and sustainability converge. Shura Links is not only a showcase of this vision, but also a foundational touchpoint in creating the Kingdom’s golf tourism trail — an entryway for international visitors to experience Saudi Arabia’s growing stature as a world-class tourism hub. It stands as an inspiration to golf enthusiasts, investors, and decision-makers around the globe.”

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The post Air India & Airbus set up advanced pilot training hub appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air India and Airbus have inaugurated an advanced pilot training center at the Air India Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram, Haryana. This state-of-the-art facility will train more than 5,000 new pilots over the next decade to support the exponential growth of commercial aviation in India.

The 50:50 joint venture facility was inaugurated by the  Minister of Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu in the presence of Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Airbus, Campbell Wilson, MD & CEO, Air India and other dignitaries from Tata Group, Air India and Airbus.

The new 12,000 sq metre center will be equipped with 10 Full Flight Simulators (FFSs), along with advanced classrooms and briefing rooms. The facility is designed to train pilots for the Airbus A320 and A350 aircraft families and its courses are approved by both the DGCA and EASA, ensuring that India’s pilot training meets the highest global standards. The facility is currently equipped with two Full Flight Simulators for Airbus A320 family aircraft. The remaining six A320 simulators and two A350 simulators will be installed progressively.

Jürgen Westermeier, President & Managing Director, Airbus India and South Asia, said: “We are very proud to partner with Air India and the Tata Group on this critical infrastructure project. The inauguration of the training center is a testament to our shared vision for the future of Indian aviation. This is more than a joint venture; it is a strategic investment in the future of the Indian aerospace industry itself. India is a strategic powerhouse for Airbus, and this state-of-the-art facility is a testament to our belief in its immense potential.”

Campbell Wilson, MD & CEO, Air India, said: “Air India is in an expansion mode with 570 new aircraft on order and the new pilot training centre at our Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram, a part of which is being executed with Airbus, will help train and upskill pilots who will fuel Air India’s ambition of becoming a world-class airline. This facility is a major step forward in our transformation journey and in making Air India and the Indian aviation industry more self-reliant. With our partners Airbus, we are playing our part in building the aviation infrastructure that India needs as one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.”

With this training center, Air India is consolidating its pilot training infrastructure from across the country into the Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram.

The Air India Aviation Training Academy is South Asia’s biggest aviation training academy. It was set up in 2024 and is currently training over 2,000 aviation professionals every day. The academy is expected to train over 50,000 aviation professionals including pilots, cabin crew, ground handling, engineering, and security staff, over the next few years. With world-class equipment and the latest technology, the training academy currently provides immersive industry-best training with safety as a core focus.

The aviation academy has best-in-class equipment for immersive training on Safety and Emergency Procedures (SEP) along with service training, grooming, voice, and accent training for cabin crew. Training for ground and security staff covers key functions such as departure control, customer service, airport security, and refreshers.

In addition, Air India is also in the process of setting up South Asia’s largest Flying Training Organisation (FTO) at Amravati in Maharashtra. The DGCA-licensed FTO at Amravati’s Belora airport will target to graduate 180 commercial pilots every year, helping fulfil demand for pilots as Air India expands its fleet.

A new Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) is also coming up near Air India’s new Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru that will be operational in FY27. The BMTO will offer a two-year integrated Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by DGCA followed by two years of practical on-job training at the MRO.

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The post The Luxury Collection makes its Singapore debut with The Laurus appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marriott International brand The Luxury Collection officially makes its debut in Singapore today, 1st October, with the opening of The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort.

Located at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), Singapore’s first integrated resort development, guests are invited to embark on an extraordinary journey of discovery rooted in Singapore’s heritage, tropical charm with historic colonial elegance, rich biodiversity, and culinary tapestry, immersing themselves in an exclusive sanctuary where refined comfort meets unparalleled exclusivity.

The Luxury Collection’s vice-president and global brand leader Bruce Rohr said of this latest addition to the portfolio in Asia: “The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, marks a defining chapter in our brand’s journey, introducing an extraordinary new destination where heritage, nature, and luxury converge. Marking The Luxury Collection’s first property in Singapore, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort offers travelers an opportunity to experience the city through a unique lens, one that honors the island’s storied past, celebrates its vibrant landscape, and invites guests into a refined sanctuary that feels deeply personal. The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort exemplifies our commitment to distinctive, destination-led hospitality, where each stay becomes a timeless story in the traveler’s collection.”

RWS CEO Lee Shi Ruh added: “The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, Singapore’s first The Luxury Collection-branded all-suite hotel, reflects RWS’s ambition to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality while offering travelers a sanctuary that feels like home. More than a hotel, it is a destination where culture and contemporary elegance come together, inviting guests to recharge, reconnect, and create lasting memories. At the same time, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, embodies our belief that true luxury must also be responsible – thoughtfully designed to delight discerning travelers while honoring our community, culture, and environment.”

Elevating the standard for Singaporean hospitality design

In keeping with the ethos of The Luxury Collection brand, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, embodies exceptional hospitality, and offers an immersive experience rooted in place, complemented by distinctive epicurean journeys. 

Embracing the promise that the best journeys ultimately welcome one home, this refined haven offers the experience of a luxurious residence that creates a true home away from home for the discerning traveller.

The new property is poised to set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Singapore. Astute travelers can immerse themselves in an exclusive sanctuary where refined comforts meet unparalleled exclusivity. 

Designed by award-winning firm P49 Design and spanning over 7,650 square meters, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, is purposefully crafted to present guests with enriching moments of exploration, relaxation, and celebration. 

Drawing from colonial and tropical influences, the hotel embodies a sophisticated aesthetic that blends contemporary elegance with Singapore’s rich heritage. 

Open verandahs and historically inspired details are incorporated to shape a distinctive environment that celebrates cultural authenticity with quiet elegance. 

Orchids, Singapore’s national flower, grace the property in carefully curated arrangements, reinforcing the hotel’s intimate connection to local culture and nature while adding beauty to every space.

Throughout the property, art and design elements reflect the discerning taste of a cosmopolitan collector. 

The Buffy Fish Owl, native to Southeast Asia and once found across Singapore’s mangroves, is featured prominently as a symbol of the hotel’s identity. 

Often seen as timeless creatures evoking wisdom, sophistication, and guardianship, the owl appears in the form of sculptures and a striking stained-glass installation, anchoring the guest experience in heritage and nature. 

This narrative is further deepened by a curated selection of art pieces from the renowned William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings, adding depth and layers of discovery to each guest’s journey.

A striking centerpiece in the lobby of The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, the custom chandelier crafted by the award-winning artisans at globally acclaimed design house Lasvit, draws inspiration from laurel leaves. 

Showcasing handcrafted glass leaves illuminated from within, the delicate branches are crafted from minimalist metal tubes. 

The chandelier evokes a sense of lightness and grace, enhancing the space’s ambiance with a gentle, airy presence that seamlessly combines artistry and serenity.

Where timeless journeys take place

Crafted in collaboration, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, redefines what a destination-driven experience can offer. 

Through encounters that blend local culture, nature, and exceptional service, a stay at this stylishly appointed property can become a treasured collection of the guests’ most meaningful journeys.

Upon arrival, guests are gently embraced by Voyage Céleste, an exclusive signature scent of The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, specially created by Maison21G that carries a coastal freshness inspired by Sentosa’s tropical environment, connecting guests to the island’s lush landscapes and coastal charm. 

This welcome ritual continues with a signature drink infused with local ingredients, setting the tone for an experience where every detail is perfectly considered. 

At the lobby, guests can also enjoy a presentation of refined Asian-inspired delicacies, thoughtfully selected to reflect Singapore and the region’s rich culinary heritage. 

This elegant display features artisanal Nyonya kueh, handcrafted kaya and coconut cookies, mango-infused tarts, and a selection of premium regional dried fruits.

Featuring a collection of 183 suites, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort blends timeless sophistication with a deep sense of place. 

Each suite embodies refined contemporary interiors, from luxurious bedding that promises restorative sleep to the curated furnishings with sleek monochromatic accents exuding timelessness that elevate modern luxury hospitality to new heights in Singapore. 

Within these thoughtfully designed spaces, carefully selected refreshments tell stories of Singapore’s artisanal heritage. 

From ETTE Tea, renowned for their Singaporean-inspired blends; to Notter Nuts with a bespoke seaweed flavor created exclusively for The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort; and Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie, a boutique chocolaterie crafting chocolates made from sustainably sourced cacao from Asia; each taste is a special discovery of local craftsmanship and artistry.

This commitment to detail and local identity extends beyond the suites and into every corner of The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort. Laurus Table, the hotel’s specialty restaurant, features a celebrity consultant chef and a refined menu of sustainable dishes inspired by the region. 

Complementing the culinary offerings are an indulgent spa, a fully equipped fitness center, and a magnificently landscaped pool. 

Together, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, creates a complete sanctuary for both rejuvenation and discovery.

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Source: traveldailymedia