The post Global passenger demand up midway through 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A new report released by FCM Consulting shows that global passenger demand rose by 9.1 percent as of the end of the first half of this year.

The latest Global Trends Report showed how numerous factors drove incremental growth in the business travel sector. Along with strong overall global passenger demand, these factors include a need for in-person meetings, as well as the return of in-person conventions, exhibitions, and similar events.

Based on figures from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as of 30th June, global passenger demand rose by 9.1 percent compared to where it was in June 2023.

A passenger demand boom

International passenger demand saw the largest growth of 12.3 percent, while passenger load factors were 85 percent, an increase of 12.7 per cent year on year. 

Domestic passenger demand, on the other hand, stood at 4.3 percent. Passenger load factors were 85 percent, showing an increase of 2.1 percent year on year

According to Felicity Burke, FCM Consulting’s head in the Asia-Pacific: “Total seats offered for calendar year 2024 is up 3.04 percent from 2019 levels and up 6.15 percent from 2023. This calendar year is the new baseline for aviation growth after 2023. [Also,] 2025 airline schedules are forecast to be positive with continued increases.” 

Burke added that the forecast seats offered across the top corporate global airlines in 2024 are set to be five percent above 2019 and, in comparison, seats offered in 2023 were two percent below 2019 levels. It should also be noted that 11 of the top corporate airlines hope to exceed their 2019 levels by the end of 2024.

The accommodation scene

The report likewise stated that the hotel average room rate across the top 100 corporate cities reported by FCM Consulting’s business analytics team was US$182, a US$5 drop versus H1-2023. As reported by STR on 6 July 2024, the global hotel occupancy rates were forecast to reach 70 per cent during July.

Global hotel occupancy climbed to nearly 70 per cent by the end of H1-2024, and air travel demand grew steadily throughout the same period. As the northern hemisphere summer emerges, we forecast travel demand to grow steadily through the next quarter.

FCM Travel Southeast Asia general manager Kenji Soh added: “A year after China’s border reopening, Asia’s average room rates hold strong in the first half of 2024. Singapore remains the priciest destination for hotel stays, with rates averaging US$298, a 27 percent increase compared to the first quarter of 2024; followed by Hong Kong and Tokyo.”

Soh also pointed out how Shanghai saw a modest increase of around 3 percent, bringing its average hotel room rate to US$146, while Beijing’s rate stands at US$149.

With regard to hospitality for business travellers in India, Bangalore took the lead with the highest average nightly room rate at US$152, trailed by Mumbai at US$147 and Delhi at US$142.

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The post China Eastern Airlines launches Eastern E-Services at Shanghai Pudong International Airport appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

China Eastern Airlines recently launched a new series of travel facilitation services at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

The implementation of the airline’s Eastern E-services aims to improve assistance for international passengers flying into the country, and to boost existing baggage services and transit routes into the Yangtze River delta.

Eastern E-Services includes online systems for digital boarding passes, ticket booking, a 24-hour transfer service, health services, declaration at customs and immigration, a city pass, and a digital arrival card.

These services not only reduce the airline’s carbon footprint, but they make the entry and exit processes easier for foreign travellers.

As soon as you arrive

Passengers arriving in China aboard China Eastern Airlines flights via Shanghai Pudong International Airport may obtain electronic boarding passes through the China Eastern Airlines app. This also enables them to enjoy an extensive range of convenient services.

China Eastern Airlines also offers an online transit information submission service for foreign visitors eligible for the 24-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit, which significantly reduces the time needed to complete entry procedures.

The airline likewise extended the service hours at its domestic check-in counters at Shanghai Pudong International Airport to midnight, ensuring 24/7 availability for domestic check-in services.

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The post Air China holds FAM trip for US travel agents appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air China and the China National Tourist Office (CNTO) recently organised a familiarisation (FAM) trip for travel agents from the United States. 

The initial team flew to China from Los Angeles on Sunday, 8th September. Organisers are currently touring the group through some of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. These include tours through Beijing, Shanghai, And Xi’an, as well as cruises down the Yangtze River.

The tour also aims to show American travel agents the desirability of China as a prime tourist destination not only when it comes to attractions, but also in terms of safety, dining, and accommodations.

According to CNTO Los Angeles director Wu Dawei: “Since China introduced a series of measures in 2023 to facilitate inbound tourism, including simplifying visa processes, expanding the list of visa-free countries, and expanding international flights, the country’s inbound tourism market has seen continuous growth.”

Wu added that touring US travel agents throughout China could increase inbound travel to the country whilst cementing the outcomes of the 14th China-US Tourism Leadership Summit held in May of this year in Xi’an.

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The post JW Marriott opens its first property in Ho Chi Minh City appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

JW Marriott announced the opening of its first property in Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City: the JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon.

Located in District 1, the city’s bustling commercial and cultural centre, the JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon stands at the corner of Hai Ba Trung Street and Le Duan Boulevard. The dual-tower structure boasts of 565 keys, as well as a direct connection to mPlaza Saigon.

JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon general manager and Marriott’s multi-property vice-president for Vietnam Mark Van Der Wielen said of the property: “JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon sets the stage for an unforgettable travel experience in the heart of the city. With its unparalleled location and facilities, underpinned by JW Marriott’s distinguished approach to service and mindfulness, JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon empowers every guest to achieve holistic well-being.”

Currently, the operations team is implementing a planned multi-phase upgrade of guest facilities in line with the hotel’s commitment to delivering a truly exquisite guest experience. From refreshed public spaces, restaurants, and bars, and enhanced accommodation options, guests can expect an elevated stay experience post enhancement. 

Raising the bar for luxurious hospitality

JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon elevates the standard of hospitality in Ho Chi Minh City with luxurious amenities and inspiring spaces to help guests relax and recharge. 

Made up of two towers, the structure is divided into a 21-storey hotel tower featuring 305 rooms and suites; and a 31-storey residential tower housing 260 one- or two-bedroom suites with panoramic views of the city skyline.

This diverse range of accommodations makes the hotel the perfect choice for a broad spectrum of guests ranging from couples and families, to corporate executives, and convention / event delegates making their way to Ho Chi Minh City.

For MICE and more

As Vietnam’s commercial capital, Ho Chi Minh City is one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic destinations for MICE.

At the JW Marriott Hotel and Suites Saigon, those organising events will find themselves with up to 1,200 square metres of premier conference and banquet space. Usable areas include a grand ballroom, an expansive pre-function area, as well as six stylish meeting rooms. 

Professional planning and imaginative catering services will likewise elevate each bespoke event. 

Mens sana in corpore sano

Guests may also indulge in holistic well-being through a selection of refined recreational facilities. 

Active types can immerse themselves in the elevated outdoor pool and soak up panoramic skyline views, and exercise in the state-of-the-art fitness center. On the other hand, those seeking out the ultimate in relaxation can head to Spa by JW, a sanctuary of serenity with seven treatment rooms, whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. 

Note that both of the towers are fitted with a rooftop pool and gym, ensuring all guests can unwind in privacy and experience ultimate tranquility.

For the ultimate in nourishment and gastronomy, the hotel kitchens offer an extensive range of culinary delights thanks to five distinct and vibrant dining destinations designed for every occasion.

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The post Viking announces new itineraries in Asia for 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Viking recently announced six new itineraries in Asia that will expand exclusive access for guests to Japan and China, as well as Tibet in 2025. 

These new voyages range from 15 to 22 days and explore iconic destinations in China, including Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an, and Lhasa in Tibet, as well as Osaka, Japan. 

The itineraries will continue to highlight rarely-seen destinations and ports in China to which only Viking has access. 

Immersive experiences

Each voyage is set to offer guests immersive destination-focused experiences, insightful lectures and regionally inspired cuisine. 

Now open for booking, the new itineraries will operate from September 2025 to November 2025 on the Viking Yi Dun, formerly known as the Viking Sun, a sister ship that boasts of the same award-winning design and service as all other ocean ships in the Viking fleet.

Viking chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen took pride in these new offerings, essentially the second run of unique voyages that explore the Chinese coast. This is something exclusive to this particular cruise line.

Hagen added: “For centuries, these phenomenal destinations in Asia have inspired travelers with ancient history and rich culture. Our guests are curious travelers who travel as a way to broaden their minds, and we look forward to introducing more of Asia to them in 2025.”

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The post Marriott International appoints general manager for Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marriott International announced that Debdyuti Dasgupta takes the helm at the soon-to-open Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa as its general manager.

Prior to this appointment, Dasgupta was general manager at the Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok, a position he held for the better part of five years.

Dasgupta said of his new role: “I am honoured and excited to lead the team at Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa as we embark on this new journey. I look forward to welcoming our first guests and working closely with the community to make this resort a true gem of the region.” 

A talented executive team will be supporting Dasgupta at Khao Lak. This group of experts includes finance director Pattharayuth Sudjit, rooms director Suphalak Jampasri, sales and marketing director Young Eun Lee, food and beverage director Jose Dominguez, human resources director Sukanya Samae, and executive chef Fabio Genghini.

Dasgupta said of his executives: “We are committed to delivering exceptional experiences that will leave our guests with lasting memories. Our goal is to create a destination that not only offers unparalleled service but also reflects the rich culture and natural beauty of Khao Lak.”

Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa is slated to open in the fourth quarter of this year.

 

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The post Tahiti’s Air Moana chooses Maxamation’s Aviator revenue management solution appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tahiti’s newest airline Air Moana announced that it has chosen Australian aviation IT solutions provider Maxamation’s revenue management solution Aviator to boost its revenues per flight.

Tiphaine Gribelin of Air Moana’s revenue management team remarked: ‘We are very reliant on Aviator both as a business intelligence tool and to automatically optimise the revenue on each of our flights.”

From its end, Maxamation provided the Aviator software, as well as on-site training and consultancy services whenever necessary. This ensured that Air Moana had everything it needed to create additional revenue.  

Gribelin added: “The Maxamation team offered phenomenal  support, and were there to help us at every stage. This combination of Aviator software and [active vendor] support allows us to proactively compete and succeed in a very competitive market.”

For his part, Maxamation CEO Peter Brewer said: ‘We are thrilled to be partners of Air Moana. The  Air Moana team has been a pleasure to work with and really helped the partnership to be 100 percent positive.”

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The post Greg Cormier is new chief marketing officer for Aurora Expeditions appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Aurora Expeditions announced the appointment of Greg Cormier as its new chief marketing officer.

Canadian native Cormier takes charge over the company’s digital experience, particularly when it comes to building up its market share in North America.

Cormier said of his appointment: “I am thrilled to have joined Aurora Expeditions at this pivotal moment for the brand.”

Aurora Expeditions’s new CMO brings over two decades worth of brand development and digital marketing experience to the cruise line, and he is slated to work in close tandem with its global marketing and sales teams to support the scaling of operations. This is timely as the cruise line is slated to welcome its third purpose-built ship next year.

Cormier said: “With two modern, small expedition ships and a third launching in 2025, I’m excited to build on the incredible work that has already been done and lead the team into this next chapter of global growth and expansion.”

Prior to Cormier’s appointment, Aurora Expeditions released its new Arctic and Beyond season of voyages to 2026. This new range includes the cruise line’s first expeditions to Southeast Asia and its new Small Ship Cruises.

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