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IATA releases methodologies for reporting SAF-related emissions reduction

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the release of its methodology for accounting and reporting emissions reduction associated with the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by airlines.

SAF is an essential component of airline plans to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. 

The IATA SAF accounting and reporting methodology was developed in collaboration with more than 40 airline experts worldwide. It is feedstock-agnostic and technology-neutral. 

Moreover, the methodology complements existing international frameworks and reinforces consistency without duplicating efforts.

What is this for?

The IATA methodology fulfils the critical need to ensure that SAF’s contribution to aviation’s decarbonization is accurately, consistently, and transparently accounted for.

At the same time, publication of the IATA SAF accounting and reporting methodology is a critical step in the preparation of the IATA SAF Registry which is scheduled to launch in April of this year. 

The IATA SAF Registry is expected to play a key role in creating a functioning global SAF market.

IATA senior vice-president for sustainability and chief economist Marie Owens Thomsen said: “The IATA methodology will provide a consistent approach to accounting for the environmental benefits of SAF purchases, regardless of location. This is an essential component of the soon-to-be launched IATA SAF Registry which will enable airlines to claim SAF benefits against their regulatory and voluntary obligations, irrespective of where SAF was uplifted. The transparency of a published global standard methodology will give confidence that the Registry is robust and fair, with no double-counting. This is essential in creating a functioning global SAF market.”

Methodology inclusions

IATA’s SAF reporting methodology is characterised by the following inclusions:

  • Purchase-based emissions calculations, irrespective of chain-of-custody used and SAF uplift locations, aligning with ICAO’s CORSIA approach.
  • Optional tank-to-wake (TTW) or well-to-wake (WTW) emissions factors to meet varying regulatory and voluntary requirements.
  • A consistent accounting approach to address regulatory and voluntary compliance needs.
  • No pre-judgement of additionality decisions by the claiming party, as long as no double counting occurs in the accounting of SAF emissions reduction.
  • Guidance for SAF emissions reduction in per-passenger and per-shipment calculations.

These are further guided by four core principles: a level playing field, built-in prevention of double-counting, integrity in environmental and reporting claims, as well as transparent and verifiable data.

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Preeti Bomzon appointed executive chef at Shinta Mani Wild

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Cambodian luxury tented campsite Shinta Mani Wild just appointed Preeti Bomzon, a longstanding food-and-beverage veteran, as its new executive chef.

According to general manager Marc LeBlanc, Bomzon will take charge of a most unusual kitchen, relying on nature’s own bounty as her pantry, as well as on the camp’s own organic farming facility.

That said, Bomzon will be offering daily menus shaped by freshly foraged produce, eagerly gathered by guests for whom joining the chef on regular foraging rounds is an enjoyable and fulfilling learning experience.

Bomzon herself said of her new role: “I’m thrilled to collaborate with the team in Cambodia and explore this extraordinary culinary destination to craft unforgettable experiences for our guests. Sustainability and environmental consciousness are core to my values, aligning seamlessly with the ethos of Shinta Mani Wild.”

Impeccable credentials

Bomzon brings extensive experience to her new role at Shinta Mani Wild.

She began her career in 2000 as an operations trainee at the Grand Hyatt in New Delhi, India. 

Over the years, she rose through various culinary ranks, holding various roles at prestigious Indian hotels before embarking on an international career. 

In 2013, she accepted her first assignment as executive chef at Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam.

In 2020, Bomzoni moved to the Maldives, where she served as the executive chef at Lti Maafushivaru Resort and later at Ifuru Island Maldives.

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CapitaLand Ascott returns boosted by acquisitions in Japan

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CapitaLand Ascott Trust (CLAS) announced its acquisition of two freehold limited-service hotels in Japan for an approximate total of SG$178.5 million on Friday, 31st January.  

The two hotels are ibis Styles Tokyo Ginza and Chisun Budget Kanazawa Ekimae in Kanazawa, one of the most popular destinations for local travellers.

On a FY 2024 pro forma basis, the acquisition of the two hotels has a Distribution per Stapled Security (DPS) accretion of 1.6 percent.  

The blended net operating income (NOI) yield of the acquisition is 4.3 percent in FY 2024.

Adopting a natural hedge against currency fluctuations, the acquisition was funded by JPY-denominated debt and proceeds from CLAS’ divestment of four properties in Japan.

Keeping tabs on a vital market

CapitaLand Ascott Trust Management Limited and Ascott Business Trust Management Pte Ltd CEO Serena Teo said of the acquisition: “Japan is a key market for us.  Post-acquisition, 18 percent of CLAS’ total assets are located in the country.  With Japan continuing to enjoy strong international travel demand, the two well-located properties are poised to capture the demand from travellers visiting Tokyo and Kanazawa.  Visitors staying in Tokyo and Kanazawa have already surpassed pre-COVID levels by 23 percent and 12 percent respectively.  The revenue per available room for both Ginza and Kanazawa markets are also set to continue on an upward trajectory.  The properties will be under management contracts, enabling CLAS to benefit from income upside.  Through our diversified portfolio of assets with different contract types, we have a mix of stable and growth income sources that enable us to deliver resilient long-term value for our Stapled Securityholders.”

Teo further explained that the acquisition is part of the company’s portfolio reconstitution strategy to enhance the quality of its portfolio and deliver stable returns to Stapled Securityholders.  

She added that the FY 2024 NOI yield of the two hotels is 230 basis points higher than the blended exit yield of approximately 2.0 percent. for the four previous divestments in Japan.  

She concluded by saying: “By swiftly redeploying divestment proceeds into these higher-yielding assets, we have fully replaced the income from the four divested properties. CLAS continues to focus on delivering growth by ensuring our portfolio is well-positioned to capture lodging demand.”

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Japan hotels stays hit record high in 2024

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In a report released on Friday, 31st January, the Japan Tourism Agency declared a record increase in overnight stays in the country throughout 2024.

The preliminary total number of overnight stays at accommodation facilities was 651.49 million, up by 5.5 percent from what was reported at the end of 2023.

The upsurge in foreign arrivals, particularly those booking accommodations at hotels and traditional inns, was noted as the primary driving factor for growth.

Foreign bookings accounted for 163.48 million, a 38.8 percent surge driven by the weakened yen.

Domestic bookings, however, were down by 2.3 percent in 2024, possibly signifying the end of the post-pandemic boom in domestic tourism.

Numbers from the fourth quarter of the year

As of end-December 2024, the total number of hotel stays hit 55.82 million, showing an increase of 6.3 percent from the same month a year earlier.

Foreign travellers made up 15.29 million of the total for the month.

Meanwhile, final figures for November 2024 show that stays booked by foreign travellers were up in 43 of Japan’s 47 prefectures.

Of these, Tottori to the west of the country showed the highest growth at 117 percent or 21,610 stays; Ishikawa in central Japan, came in second, reflecting 116 percent in terms of growth.

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WTTC welcomes EMBRATUR

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The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) integrates the Brazilian Tourist Board (EMBRATUR) as its newest Destination Partner, marking an exciting chapter in collaborative efforts to drive global tourism growth.

As a WTTC Destination Partner, EMBRATUR will participate in high-level forums featuring CEOs and executives from around 200 of the most influential companies and destinations in the tourism sector. These forums align with WTTC’s mission to unlock the potential of the Travel & Tourism sector for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient growth. Through collaboration with governments, destinations, communities, and industry leaders, WTTC aims to foster economic development, create jobs, and reduce poverty worldwide.
Under its promotional brand ‘Visit Brasil’, EMBRATUR joins more than 30 prominent Destination Partners within WTTC’s global network. These include organisations such as Atout France, Brand USA, Abu Dhabi, Destination Canada, Dubai, Visit California, ProColombia, Buenos Aires, Thailand, Portugal, and Rwanda, among others.

Julia Simpson, President & CEO WTTC, said: “It is an honour to announce EMBRATUR as our new Destination Partner. Brazil stands as a global icon in the Travel & Tourism sector, and through this partnership, we will work together to strengthen the resilience of the industry while unlocking opportunities for growth that benefit everyone.”

According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) 2024, conducted in collaboration with Oxford Economics, Brazil’s tourism sector contributes 7.7% to the country’s GDP, amounting to a staggering US$165.4 billion.

By joining WTTC, EMBRATUR will enhance Brazil’s global presence as a leading tourism destination while contributing to the initiatives and policies spearheaded by the organisation. Membership also grants access to a premier network of key stakeholders in the global tourism industry.
Marcelo Freixo, President of EMBRATUR, commented: “It is an honour for EMBRATUR to join WTTC’s distinguished group of Destination Partners. This partnership provides a platform to strengthen Brazil’s standing as a central player in global tourism discussions. We remain steadfast in our commitment to promoting Brazil as a destination that harmonises tourism with the challenges of the 21st century, fostering development through environmental sustainability and the celebration of human diversity.”

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Marina Bay Sands reports net revenue increase for end-2024

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Marina Bay Sands’ parent company Las Vegas Sands reported that the Singaporean mixed-use complex generated a net revenue of US$1.14 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024.

This is 24.05 percent higher than that recorded in Q3-2024, and reflects a 7.2 percent increase year-on-year.

MBS’ adjusted property earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) was US$537 million, lower by 1.3 percent from where it was in the same period in 2023.

However, the Q4-2024 EBITDA was up by 32.27 percent in quarter-on-quarter terms.

Likewise, MBS’ gaming revenues were up 6.44 percent year on year, settling at US$792 million; non-gaming revenue, on the other hand, was at US$345 million, up 7.81 percent.

Total hotel occupancy for Q4-2024 was at 93.4 percent, thanks primarily to holiday-centric bookings.

Las Vegas Sands chair and chief executive Robert G Goldstein said of the Q4-2024 figures: “MBS continued to deliver outstanding financial and operating performance. Our new suite product and elevated service offerings position us for additional growth as travel and tourism spending in Asia expands.”

Paying for expansion

Following the Marina Bay Sands revenue report, Las Vegas Sands announced that it is paying the Singapore government US$1 billion following certain changes made to the expansion plans for the mixed-use development.

Filed last 10th January, the changes involve an increase in the overall gaming area allocation, as well as other vital amendments.

Based on the adjustments, the company needs to purchase an additional 2,000 square meters of approved gaming area and a further 10,000 square meters in support of the gaming area from the STB.

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Emirates inaugurates experiential ‘Emirates World’ store in Cairo

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Emirates unveils its Emirates World store in Egypt, expanding the reach of its refreshed travel retail store concept that elevates the customer experience through product showcases, smart technologies and expert travel consultants.

The Emirates World store, located at the luxurious 5A WaterWay in Cairo, was inaugurated by Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer and Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Centre, in the presence of Her Excellency Mariam Al Kaabi,  UAE Ambassador, Pilot Montaser Mana, the Deputy Minister of Civil Aviation of Egypt and Amr Kady, CEO of Egypt Tourism Authority. The opening ceremony was also attended by other distinguished guests, trade and media partners.

Commenting on the milestone, Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “This year marks our fourth decade of operations. Egypt was one of the first five destinations that we launched to at the very beginning of our operations, and we are proud to further enhance our offering for customers with the inauguration of Emirates World in Cairo.”

He continued, “Our global retail strategy is perfectly aligned with our ‘Fly Better’ promise, offering our customers the elevated hospitality they expect from Emirates, along with smart and efficient technologies, hands-on product displays and expert support and advice.  We will continue to roll out Emirates World concept stores in Africa and across our network, to connect more deeply with our customers at more touchpoints on the ground.”

Personalised and dedicated levels of service

At 332m2, Emirates World Cairo brings the airline’s iconic product and services even closer to customers in the city. With its light and airy colour palette and open-plan lounge-like environment, the concept store is reminiscent of the airline’s signature inflight look and feel, further amplified by the full-size showcase of the iconic Emirates A380 Onboard Lounge experience and the First Class suite display.

Nine customer service counters staffed by expert consultants offer a comprehensive range of services from planning travel itineraries, supporting reservations and ticketing as well as general enquiries. Smart technologies such as the ‘selfie mirror’ snap pictures of travellers against scenic destination backdrops, inspiring customers to explore more; while self-service kiosks empower customers with a self-service touchpoint, minimising wait time and offering a faster service. 

Reaffirming Emirates’ commitment to Egypt

For nearly four decades, Emirates has been a steadfast partner of aviation, tourism and trade in Egypt. Since the first flight in 1986, when the airline was less than a year old, Emirates has flown over 10.6 million passengers. Today, Emirates serves Cairo with four daily flights. 

Emirates has also created significant employment opportunities, with over 920 Egyptian nationals currently serving as cabin crew members, contributing to local job creation and ensuring that Egyptian hospitality and culture are represented on a global stage.

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45 million visitors travelled to Hong Kong in 2024

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Tourism Board (HKTB) announced that the provisional full-year visitor arrivals for 2024 were close to 45 million, up 31% year on year. In December, Hong Kong received 4.26 million visitors, an increase of 8% year on year.

Southeast Asian markets showed strong performance Arrivals from long-haul markets grew by 50% year on year

The Mainland remained the largest visitor source market for Hong Kong, contributing to about 34 million visitor arrivals, up 27% year on year. Mainland visitors also accounted for about three quarters of all visitors last year. Arrivals during the Lunar New Year holidays, Labour Day and National Day Golden Weeks were satisfactory.

Hong Kong received a total of 10.5 million non-Mainland visitors in 2024, up 44% from previous year. As flight capacity continued to increase, non-Mainland visitor arrivals exceeded a million for two consecutive months in November and December 2024. Among short-haul arrivals, Southeast Asian markets were impressive, especially the Philippines, with a record-breaking annual total of 1.2 million visitors from the country. Arrivals from Indonesia and Malaysia increased by 43% and 50% year on year respectively, and the number of Indian visitors increased by more than 70% from 2023.

As flight capacity gradually resumed, visitors from long-haul markets, including the US, Canada, Australia and Europe, also grew by more than 50%. Canada and Australia performed exceptionally well in the fourth quarter.

Overnight visitors accounted for half of all visitors, with a high visitor satisfaction rate

Dane Cheng, HKTB Executive Director, said, “Last year, HKTB made a great effort to organise and promote mega events in Hong Kong, while enhancing the visitor experience. We also launched various promotions targeting different markets and segments and stepped up our efforts to drive Hong Kong’s development as a Muslim-friendly destination. In 2024, we rolled out a new hospitality campaign and a series of related promotions.”

“Leveraging various new measures benefitting Hong Kong announced by the Central Government and the new ‘Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0’, together with our core tourism appeal, HKTB will do its best to step up promotions in target markets and visitor segments to attract visitors with a wide range of tourism products and experiences. We hope to attract not only one-time visitors, but visitors who look forward to visiting Hong Kong repeatedly.”

 

 

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Malaysia celebrates tourist arrivals for Chinese New Year festivities

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As part of promoting the exciting Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, this year’s vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations were further enlivened by welcoming events for domestic and international tourists at four major airports across the country.

At Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 today, Mr Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, representing YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture; presented mandarin oranges and souvenirs to tourists at the Arrival Hall. Also in attendance were representatives from the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA), Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), and airlines.

The celebrations came alive as Mr Lee Thai Hung and distinguished guests joined the “yee sang” tossing tradition, a symbolic gesture of abundance and prosperity. Tourists were then captivated by the sights and sounds of Malaysian traditional dances, followed by the energetic lion dance, a hallmark of Chinese New Year festivities. Adding to the charm, the VM2026 mascots – Wira and Manja, made a delightful appearance, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.

In addition to KLIA, similar welcoming events for tourists were also held at Penang International Airport in Bayan Lepas, Penang; Kota Kinabalu International Airport in Sabah; and Kuching International Airport in Sarawak.

 

 

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Malaysia Airlines teams up with Mercedes-Benz to serve elite clientele

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Malaysia Airlines’ parent firm Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) formally entered a strategic partnership with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

This new partnership was designed to redefine luxury services and elevate overall customer experience for their elite clientele. 

The collaboration was unveiled at an exclusive event held at Hap Seng Star Setia Alam, showcasing a shared commitment to unparalleled luxury and convenience.

As of 16th January, Malaysia Airlines offers a fleet of luxury sedans from Mercedes-Benz Malaysia under its Private Terminal Transfer Service. 

The fleet includes Mercedes-Benz S 580 e Plug-in Hybrid sedans and all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS 500 4MATIC models. 

This 24-hour service will facilitate seamless transfers for eligible passengers between KLIA Terminal 1’s Main Terminal and the Satellite Building.

Enhancing the travel experience together

According to MAG chief executive for loyalty and travel services Philip See: “We are dedicated to enhancing travel experiences by elevating service standards. Our partnership with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia ensures Enrich members and elite passengers enjoy premium comfort. This supports our efforts to enhance in-flight and on-ground offerings, reinforcing Malaysia Airlines’ premium service. In addition, through exclusive privileges and curated engagements, we strive to elevate the Enrich experience, ensuring seamless and rewarding journeys beyond flying. We remain committed to delivering exceptional service that reflects Malaysian Hospitality.”

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia president and CEO Amanda Zhang added: “At Mercedes-Benz, our mission is to craft extraordinary experiences, what we call Mercedes Moments, where cutting-edge technology meets timeless elegance to make every journey unforgettable. Partnering with Malaysia Aviation Group allows us to elevate luxury travel experiences for our customers and Enrich members, setting new benchmarks in exclusivity and sophistication. Being ranked consecutively as the ‘most valuable luxury automotive brand’ in Interbrand’s Best Global Brands 2024 reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence. We are excited to embark on this journey together to redefine customer service and luxury.”

A luxurious shared commitment

This collaboration reflects the shared commitment of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines to delivering exceptional experiences. 

Customers can look forward to privileged offerings, including invitation to exclusive curated lifestyle events, special vehicle incentives, and seamless travel services. 

Together, these offerings combine the strengths of both brands to create unforgettable moments.

Other benefits include:

  • Malaysia Airlines’ Enrich Platinum and Gold members will enjoy specially curated #MyMercedesRewards on selected Mercedes-Benz all-electric and plug-in hybrid models, delivering an exclusive ownership experience tailored for its distinguished members. Additionally, members who purchase a new Mercedes-Benz car this year, will have the opportunity to participate in an exclusive top-tier journey to Germany, offering a unique experience into the world of Mercedes-Benz. Terms and conditions apply.
  • Malaysia Airlines’ Enrich Platinum and Gold members will enjoy access to exclusive Mercedes-Benz Malaysia events delivering unparalleled luxury experiences. Likewise, Mercedes-Benz customers will have the opportunity to participate in exclusive Malaysia Airlines’ Enrich events, curated to provide extraordinary travel and lifestyle privileges that reflect the pinnacle of premium service.
  • Starting 1 March 2025, customers who purchase Mercedes-Benz vehicles will enjoy year-round access to Malaysia Airlines’ Private Terminal Transfer Service, ensuring a luxurious and convenient journey when travelling on Malaysia Airlines.

By merging the innovative luxury of Mercedes-Benz with the world-class hospitality of MAG, this partnership sets a new standard for premium services in the region.

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