The post Indonesia increases airports to boost growth of tourism sector appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Indonesia recently doubled the number of airports designated as international airports as a way of boosting tourism and improving economic growth under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto.

Per a report from national news agency Antara, this decision reverses a policy set last year by then-President Joko Widodo which reduced the number of international airports by half due to increasing operational costs.

On 12th August, the Indonesian government assigned international status to 40 airports, up from 22 previously. 

The move adds airports in densely populated East Java province and strategic industrial locations like Weda Bay and Morowali Industrial Park, both of which are key hubs for the country’s nickel mining and processing sector.

What needs to be done

Newly appointed airports must first prepare immigration, customs, and quarantine services and comply with international safety standards before accepting overseas flights. 

Indonesian director-general of civil aviation Lukman F Laisa declared in a statement: “The international status of an airport carries no small responsibility.”

Furthermore, the additional designation of airports is a reflection of the current administration’s drive to maximise direct international flights nationwide to stimulate regional tourism and business across the archipelago.

In 2024, the Widodo administration halved the number of international airports to 17, in the name of reducing expenditures.

Officials said then that only five of Indonesia’s international airports, including Jakarta and Bali, operated regular overseas flights to various countries, while the rest offered only limited routes or none at all.

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The post DXB set to welcome over 3.6 million guests during the back-to-school peak appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Dubai International (DXB) is gearing up for a busy end to the summer holidays, with families returning from vacation and students travelling back to Dubai ahead of the new academic year. Between 13 and 25 August 2025, DXB is expected to welcome more than 3.6 million guests, with daily averages reaching 280,000. The busiest day is forecast for Friday, 15 August, with traffic set to exceed 290,000.

The back-to-school surge follows a record-breaking first half of 2025, which saw Dubai welcome 9.88 million international overnight visitors—a 6% increase year-on-year—and DXB handle over 46 million guests, reaffirming its position as the world’s biggest international airport.

Dubai Airports is working with the oneDXB community including airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners, to ensure a seamless, stress-free journey for every guest during this busy travel period. Here are some top essential tips and guidance to help guests navigate the airport with ease.

Arrivals tips for a smooth welcome at DXB:

• For those travelling with families, children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process.
• Keep passports, boarding passes, and any necessary visas handy to speed up clearance.
• Make the most of the DXB experience with various amenities in lounges, dining and shopping outlets, and duty-free.
• Use the Dubai Metro, with stations conveniently located at DXB’s Terminals 1 and 3. Guests can also choose from a variety of other transport options, including Uber, Careem, RTA taxis, or car rentals.
• Enhanced support is available for People of Determination, including marked accessibility routes, discreet assistance for guests wearing Sunflower Lanyards, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2.

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The post Capella at Galaxy Macau has a soft opening offering 95 suites appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Capella Hotels and Resorts opens its doors in Macau for the first time, introducing its distinctive approach to bespoke luxury. The soft opening of Capella at Galaxy Macau, currently offering stays and previews of its food and beverage concepts exclusively by invitation to select guests, represents a significant addition to the region’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Tropical-Inspired Design Reflects Dynamism, Local Geography and Heritage

Conceived by Paris-based Moinard Bétaille, the hotel showcases a luxurious tropical jungle theme inspired by the green hills and water elements of Macau. Each of the 17 floors blends the city’s spirit with lush, immersive atmospheres that evoke Macau’s adventurous spirit and rich history. The lobby features a remarkable immersive digital art wall portraying this theme with a contemporary twist.

Behind the gilded façade lies 95 accommodations comprising suites and Capella Penthouses with light-filled balconies, private infinity-edge pools, outdoor lounges, sunrooms, hidden winter gardens, butler pantries and screening rooms.

Strategic Partnership with Galaxy Macau

“This strategic partnership positions Capella as the pinnacle of luxury hospitality within Galaxy Macau’s integrated resort,” says Clive Edwards, Senior Vice-President, Operations, Capella Hotel Group.

“As Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotel Brand for three consecutive years, we set the bar for luxury within this world-class destination. Our guests enjoy unparalleled access to Galaxy’s extensive amenities while experiencing a level of personalised service and cultural immersion that only Capella delivers—from our signature Capella Culturists to bespoke experiences that celebrate Macau’s extraordinary heritage.

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The post flydubai’s fleet grows to 93 aircraft appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

These additions form an integral part of the airline’s strategic growth plans, enabling the continued expansion of its network, enhancing operational efficiency and increasing capacity on existing routes. As per a news report in TradeArabia. The seven new aircraft, received between April and August 2025, have seen the flydubai fleet grow to 93 aircraft.

Once all 12 aircraft have been delivered this year, flydubai’s fleet will stand at more than 95 aircraft, supporting the carrier’s growing network of more than 135 destinations in 57 countries. This expansion continues to open up underserved markets, creating more travel opportunities and further strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global aviation hub.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “The arrival of these new aircraft is a testament to our long-term strategic vision and our confidence in the future of air travel. Our fleet investment supports our mission to offer greater choice, enhanced convenience and improved connectivity for our passengers. These deliveries are part of a backlog extensively delayed in recent years, and despite receiving 12 aircraft this year, we remain 20 aircraft behind our original projections.”

“The continued interest from our financing partners highlights the strength of our business model and our commitment to contributing to the UAE’s leadership in global aviation. Looking ahead, these aircraft will enable us to unlock new destinations, optimise our operations and play an even greater role in supporting Dubai’s growth as an international aviation hub,” added Al Ghaith. 

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The post Onko Chishin Welcomes Two New Properties appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Onko Chishin Inc., the hospitality company behind multiple Michelin recognized small luxury hotels across Japan, announces the addition of two historic onsen ryokans to its  growing collection. The company is debuting the fully renovated IZU RETREAT by Onko Chishin in  November 2025 and welcoming OTARU RETREAT by Onko Chishin in December 2025, furthering its  mission to preserve Japan’s cultural heritage through exceptional, immersive travel experiences. The dual  openings mark a strategic expansion of Onko Chishin’s curatorial approach to hospitality, where each  property becomes a living showcase for its region, designed to share local stories with humility, beauty, and  intent. With a portfolio of 15 distinctive hotels and restaurants nationwide, the company serves as  storytellers of hidden Japan, connecting travelers who seek authentic experiences beyond the obvious with  Japan’s hidden cultural treasures.

IZU RETREAT by Onko Chishin emerges from a comprehensive renovation of a beloved Showa-era hot  spring resort on the Izu Peninsula’s eastern coast into what the company calls “nostalgic luxury.” Located  in the historic onsen town of Atagawa, the property sits just two hours from Tokyo by limited express train.  Acquired from its previous operator and completely reimagined to Onko Chishin’s standards, the r  renovation transforms 24 rooms into 16 expansive suites (87 ㎡ to 200 ㎡), all featuring private onsen baths  with Pacific Ocean views. Unique amenities include oceanfront suites with private saunas and terraces,  plus one suite incorporating a traditional karaoke room celebrating Japan’s social onsen culture.

OTARU RYOTEI KURAMURE joins Onko Chishin’s collection following selective renovations that preserve  and enhance the architectural mastery of renowned designer Makoto Nakayama in the historic port town  of Otaru, Hokkaido. Upon reopening in December 2025, the property will operate as OTARU RETREAT by  Onko Chishin. The 18-room authentic ryokan features five pavilions connected by covered walkways,  inspired by Otaru’s warehouse heritage. Set in a tranquil mountain environment, the all-inclusive retreat  offers sodium-calcium chloride hot springs renowned for therapeutic benefits.

Both properties address evolving luxury travel preferences toward authentic cultural engagement over  conventional amenities. These transformations convert overlooked regional destinations into compelling  gateways accessible from Japan’s major cities.

“We don’t simply renovate historic properties. We uncover the unseen, refine it with reverence, and present  it to the world,” explains Tomoki Matsuyama, CEO and founder of Onko Chishin. “Each hotel becomes a  living showcase for its region. Our name, Onko Chishin, comes from Confucius: ‘To revisit the old is to  better understand the new. We are storytellers of hidden Japan, sharing the country’s treasures with the  world.”

These projects reflect broader luxury Japan travel trends toward meaningful cultural experiences and  retreat-style destinations. Onko Chishin’s positioning combines deep regional Japanese cultural  understanding with international hospitality standards.

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The post IWTA interviews Anchalika Kijkanakorn on Redefining Luxury Travel appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IWTA interviews Anchalika Kijkanakorn on Redefining Luxury Travel

If you know of any female leaders or up and coming superstars in the Travel and Hospitality industry you would like to hear their story, please visit our page and complete a nomination form!

NOMINATE SOMEONE

NOMINATE YOURSELF

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The post WTTC Unveils First Wave of Speakers for its 25th Global Summit in Rome appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the first wave of headline speakers for its milestone 25th Global Summit in Rome, which includes a glittering line-up of some of the most influential figures shaping the future of the sector. 

From the 28 – 30 September, the Eternal City will play host to a gathering of global business leaders from across business, government, and media, as the Global Summit returns to Europe in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Taking place at the iconic Auditorium Parco della Musica, the event will set the stage for high-impact debates and bold commitments on the issues defining Travel & Tourism. From the game-changing potential of AI to shaping the future of a sector that generates 10% of global GDP.

The first confirmed speakers include:

• Minor Hotel Group, Founder & Chairman, William E. Heinecke
• Virtuoso, Founder & CEO, Matthew Upchurch
• Trip.com Group, CEO, Jane Sun, CEO
• TBO.Com, Co-Founder, Gaurav Bhatnagar
• Diriyah Company, Group CEO, Jerry Inzerillo
• MSC Cruises, Executive Chairman of Cruise, Pierfrancesco Vago
• Arsenale Spa, CEO, Paolo Barletta
• IC Bellagio, CEO – Sole Founder, Andrea Grisdale
• The Bicester Collection, Chair & Global Chief Merchant, Desiree Bollier
• Marriott International, CEO, Anthony Capuano
• Visit California, President & CEO, Caroline Beteta
• Google Inc, Head of Retail & Travel, EMEA Partnerships Solutions, Christie Travers-Smith
• InterContinental Hotels Group, Global CEO, Elie Maalouf
• Amadeus, President: Travel, Decius Valmorbida Menezes
• VFS Global, Founder, Founder & CEO, Zubin Karkaria

Other speakers include:

• Indian Hotels Company, CEO, Puneet Chhatwal
• Microsoft, Global Managing Director – Travel, Transport & Hospitality Industry, Julie Shainock
• OMRAN Group, CEO, Hashil Al Mahrouqi
• Terme & Spa Italia, President & Owner, Massimo Caputi

During the Global Summit, WTTC’s current Chair, Greg O’Hara, Founder and Senior Managing Director of Certares Management LLC (“Certares”) will pass the torch to Manfredi Lefebvre, Chairman of Heritage Group and co-chair of luxury travel company Abercrombie and Kent – one of the most recognised names in Travel & Tourism.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to have such a distinguished group of speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Rome.

“The Eternal City provides a perfect backdrop for a Summit where the world’s Travel & Tourism leaders will gather to innovate, collaborate, and drive a decade of exceptional, sustainable growth.”

Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, who will also be addressing delegates at this year’s Global Summit said: “The names confirmed so far reaffirm the absolute prestige of the world’s largest tourism event: the WTTC Global Summit will be a historic moment that will offer enormous opportunities in favour of large investments in Italy, so much so that a special focus with Invitalia is dedicated precisely to this issue”.

Greg O’Hara, Founder & Senior Managing Director, Certares, and WTTC Chair, added: “The WTTC Global Summit has evolved into the most influential gathering in Travel & Tourism, bringing together the people and ideas that shape our sector’s future. Rome will be a launchpad for the next decade of growth, innovation, and collaboration.

“I’m honoured to host my final Summit as Chair alongside such an extraordinary line-up of leaders, as we work together to ensure Travel & Tourism continues to drive prosperity and connect cultures around the world.”

Manfredi Lefebvre, Executive Chairman of AKTG, Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal Cruises and WTTC Chair-Elect, added: “As we gather in the heart of Rome, we are reminded that the future of Travel & Tourism is not just about destinations, but about the connections we forge and the experiences we create together. This summit marks a pivotal moment for our industry; it is an opportunity to embrace innovation and resilience, ensuring that we not only thrive but also leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”

More speakers and headline sessions will be announced in the coming weeks, with the programme set to tackle the most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities for a sector that generates millions of jobs, drives economic resilience, and connects communities across the globe.

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The post Spirit Airlines Launches New, Nonstop Service from Savannah appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Airline celebrates new Savannah (SAV) service with Free Spirit® bonus points promotion on flights between SAV and Newark, Fort Lauderdale, Nashville and Detroit. Spirit Airlines landed at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) for the first time today, bringing high-value travel to the Hostess City of the South. The airline launched its new SAV service with daily, nonstop flights to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), connecting Savannah’s southern charm to the popular New York metropolitan area. Spirit’s SAV route map will grow this fall with the launch of flights to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Nashville International Airport (BNA) starting Oct. 9, 2025, and service to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) beginning Oct. 10, 2025.

“We’re always looking for new destinations our Guests will love, and the addition of Savannah to Spirit’s network offers a great value for a charming getaway,” said Rana Ghosh, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Spirit Airlines. “Our new service will also provide Savannah travelers with easy access to four cities offering beautiful beaches, vibrant music scenes and big city views.”

“Spirit’s addition of SAV to its route network is a major win for our region. This new service opens up exciting travel opportunities for visitors heading to Southeast Georgia and the coastal areas of Southeast South Carolina,” said Greg Kelly, Executive Director of the Savannah Airport Commission. “For our local community, it means convenient access to four of Spirit’s most popular destinations — bringing more choice, value, and connectivity. We’re confident this marks the beginning of a strong and mutually beneficial partnership.”

The new Savannah service marks Spirit’s third Georgia destination. The airline first launched service at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) 19 years ago and recently announced new service to Middle Georgia Regional Airport (MCN) in Macon, Georgia, will launch Oct. 16, 2025.

Free Spirit® Bonus Points Promotion

Following Spirit’s recent upgrade of its Free Spirit loyalty program, the airline is celebrating the launch of its Savannah service with a Free Spirit loyalty program promotion* where members can earn 1,500 bonus points on roundtrip flights and 750 bonus points on one-way flights to and from Savannah (SAV). Travel between SAV and EWR must be booked by Aug. 21, 2025, and flown by Sept. 21, 2025. Travel between SAV and FLL, SAV and BNA, or SAV and DTW must be booked by Oct. 17, 2025, and flown by Nov. 17, 2025. The Free Spirit® loyalty program is free to join and travelers who sign up will receive 500 additional bonus points.

Spirit’s Transformed Guest Experience

Savannah Guests can enjoy Spirit’s three travel options, which offer a seamless and elevated travel experience at a great value:

• Spirit First provides enhanced comfort with a Big Front Seat®, a carry-on and first checked bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Check-In and Boarding, reserved overhead bin space, complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, and streaming access to fast Wi-Fi.
• Premium Economy allows Guests to stretch out with more space in a Premium Seat with extra legroom or a blocked middle seat and includes one carry-on bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Boarding and reserved overhead bin space.
• Value maximizes affordability and flexibility with the option for travelers to select only the extras they need. Seat selection, one carry-on bag, checked bags and other options can be purchased separately.

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The post Delta elevates the Aspen experience with Embraer jets appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Big news for ski season travellers heading to Aspen! Starting this November, Delta, through our Delta Connection partner SkyWest, is upgrading the journey to the mountains by replacing our CRJ-700 aircraft with sleek, spacious Embraer jets—just in time for the winter ski season. 

“Aspen is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world, and we’re making sure your travel experience matches the magic of the mountains,” said Amy Martin – Vice President – Network Planning. “This aircraft change isn’t just about a new look, it’s about solving real challenges for our customers and enhancing every leg of the journey.”

Here’s what customers can expect:

More room for your gear

We know how important your ski equipment is, and the Embraer jets are built to handle it. With a larger cargo hold, these aircraft significantly reduce bulk-out issues, making it easier to bring your skis, snowboards, and winter gear without worry.

Smoother baggage handling

Whether you’re packing for a weekend on the slopes or a weeklong winter escape, the Embraer jets offer improved baggage capacity and handling—especially critical at high-demand airports like Aspen.

A cabin experience that matches the destination

Enjoy a quieter, more comfortable ride with modern interiors, larger windows and more personal space. It’s a noticeable upgrade from the CRJ-700, and one we know our customers will appreciate.

Winter-ready reliability

Aspen’s unique terrain and weather conditions demand aircraft that can perform. The Embraer jets are well-suited for mountain flying, offering enhanced operational reliability and performance.

This fleet change will apply to all SkyWest flights operating as Delta Connection from Atlanta (ATL) and Los Angeles (LAX) to Aspen (ASE).

This change is part of Delta’s ongoing commitment to delivering a premium experience to our customers—whether you’re flying for the powder, the après-ski, or the breathtaking views.

So, pack your gear, grab your goggles, and get ready to fly smoother to Aspen this season. The Embraer jets are coming, and they’re bringing a whole new altitude to your mountain adventure.

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The post CMAC Group Joins BARIG Network appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG) welcomes CMAC Group, a leader in ground transport, accommodation and disruption management, to its business partner network. CMAC Group operates in more than 100 countries, working with a trusted global network of 13,000+ small and large vehicle supply partners across the UK, Europe and Australia. Through its partnership with BARIG – which represents over 100 national and international airlines – CMAC Group will further strengthen its European growth strategy and commitment to passenger wellbeing.

Wim Kanon, Managing Director at CMAC Group, says: “We are proud to have been delivering continuity and care during disruption for over 18 years. By joining BARIG, we have a stronger platform to collaborate with airlines operating in the region and further develop our industry-wide solutions.”

CMAC Group arranges the movement of over five million passengers each year and delivers technology-led services for its partners facing cancellations, delays or diversions. This includes Smartlink – a self-service booking technology for hotels and ground transport, allowing airlines to respond faster in case of exceptional circumstances that can lead to disruptions.

Michael Hoppe, BARIG Chairman and Executive Director, says: “We are delighted to welcome CMAC as an innovative partner that helps airlines improve passenger and ground staff experience in exceptional situations. Its presence in our network supports our ongoing efforts to improve processes and service delivery across the aviation sector.”

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