The post Sabre Direct Pay brings its integrated chargeback management service to the travel industry appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Sabre Corporation’s travel payments division Sabre Direct Pay introduces a new service designed to help travel companies simplify and scale chargebacks, enabling dispute resolution more efficiently across both issuing  and acquiring channels. 

Developed in partnership with Chargebacks911, the solution enables users to initiate and represent  charge disputes without navigating multiple issuer or acquirer systems, removing the need for  separate logins, manual data entry, or technical integration.

By doing so, it brings together what is typically a  disjointed set of workflows into a single interface tailored for the travel industry. 

A timely solution

Sabre Direct Pay managing director Patricio Boccardo explained that the travel industry’s lack of  standardisation in dispute handling has long undermined operational efficiency. 

Boccardo said: “Each issuer  enforces its own formatting, evidence rules and submission windows. That complexity reduces win  rates, inflates case handling time, and complicates auditability across jurisdictions. What we’ve  built is a dedicated chargeback layer that automates dispute creation, aligns submissions to issuer specific requirements, and routes everything through a single interface. It allows providers to  consolidate issuing and acquiring workflows in one environment, with full visibility and measurable  recovery outcomes.” 

That said, the launch builds on Sabre Direct Pay’s broader efforts to streamline financial operations across the travel industry. 

Recent partnerships have extended the platform’s footprint across multiple regions and capabilities, from Pay by Bank solutions with Trustly in Europe, to instant cross border payouts through TerraPay, airline payment orchestration via CellPoint Digital, and large-scale virtual card issuance with Revolut, Sunrate and WEX. 

In Brazil, Sabre also partnered with Jazz  Tech to enable fast, compliant local card issuance for agencies and suppliers. 

Each initiative addresses a structural gap in travel payments; the addition of chargeback resolution brings critical dispute handling into the same unified framework. 

Where Chargebacks911 comes in

Chargebacks911 will operate as the dispute resolution engine behind the service, providing the  expertise, infrastructure and issuer connectivity required to manage chargebacks at scale. 

All  access and interaction will take place through Sabre Direct Pay, ensuring customers engage with  a single, unified platform for both payments and dispute management. 

According to Chargebacks911 chief executive Monica Eaton, the dispute process in travel is disproportionately complex because it operates across high-value  bookings, variable fulfilment timelines, and multiple parties.

Eaton said: “Most providers still rely on manual uploads, siloed portals and general-purpose  tools not designed for this use case. Our platform resolves that by automating issuer requirements,  tracking dispute progress in real time, and applying tailored evidence strategies. Delivered through  Sabre Direct Pay, this becomes an integrated resolution system — improving efficiency while  protecting revenue.” 

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The post Air Astana announces new routes into Asia and the Middle East appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air Astana announced the resumption of several routes along with new services to the Middle East and Asia throughout autumn 2025.

As of last month, the airline resumed twice weekly flights from Almaty to Jeddah and Shyment to Jeddah once a week. 

Meanwhile, flights from Almaty to Medina will resume twice a week later this month, whilst services from Shymkent to Medina will operate once weekly. 

Flights from Astana to Jeddah and Medina will operate alternatively every two weeks, together with new services linking Aktau to both Jeddah and Medina, also operating alternatively every two weeks.

Old and new inroads to Asia and beyond

Air Astana is also resuming services to popular tourist destinations in Asia in late October, including Almaty to Male in the  Maldives three times a week initially and increasing to five times a week during peak holiday periods. 

Almaty to Phu Quoc in Vietnam will initially operate five times per week, rising to daily flights in December, whilst services between Astana and Phu Quoc will operate three times a week.

Services between Almaty and Dubai will increase from seven to 12 flights per week, whilst flights between Astana and Dubai will grow from seven to 10 per week. 

Air Astana will also boost frequencies to Thailand, with Almaty to Bangkok flights rising from four to seven per week and the Almaty to Phuket flights expanding from four to seven weekly flights.

All flights will be operated by Airbus A320neo and A321LR aircraft.

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The post Germany’s Import Promotion Desk to present inspiring experiences at WTM London 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The German Import Promotion Desk (IPD) is all set to beguile attendees at this year’s WTM London with inspiring travel experiences beyond the usual tourist paths. 

The initiative for import and tourism promotion supports small and medium-sized enterprises from Brazil, Ecuador, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, and Uzbekistan in showcasing their offers at the international trade fair, taking place from 4th to 6th November.

Among others, the IPD’s tourism specialists will offer unique accommodations, special nature experiences, and authentic cultural encounters in their regions. 

Inspired getaways within reach

Highlights include lodges in Ecuador’s Amazon region, homestays in Sri Lanka, and a treehouse camp in Nepal. 

Beyond these accommodation offers, the companies provide distinctive journeys through their regions: from off-the-beaten-track adventures in Uzbekistan and desert tours in Tunisia, to spiritual treks across the Nepalese Himalayas. 

Community-based tourism adds another dimension: a Brazilian company, for example, will present its sustainable project along the banks of the Rio Negro.

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The post Avolon issues financial update for Q3-2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global aviation finance firm Avolon has released its third quarterly update for this year, spanning the period from 1st July to 30th September.

Per the update, Avolon has acquired 17 aircraft, sold 15 aircraft and ended the quarter with 60 aircraft agreed for sale.

The company also entered into several letters of intent for the purchase and lease of ten aircraft whilst placing eight aircraft from its orderbook.

The company thus ended Q3-2025 with 99 percent of its orderbook placed for the next 24 months.

Other quarterly developments

In the third quarter of this year, Avolon also placed an order with Airbus for 90 new aircraft, including 75 A321neo aircraft and 15 A330neo aircraft.

The new aircraft are scheduled to be delivered out to 2033.

The company also raised US$2.2 billion in unsecured funding and completed the repayment of US$829 million of existing secured debt and a US$1 billion tender offer, increasing both the duration and proportion of unsecured debt in our capital structure.

With that said, Avolon ended the quarter with an owned, managed and committed fleet of 1,159 aircraft, including orders and commitments for 522 new technology aircraft.

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The post New Thai tourism minister announces urgent stimulus measures appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Newly-appointed Thai minister of tourism and sports Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn announced a series of urgent tourism stimulus measures.

To be implemented under the theme Big Impact Act Fast, these measures seek to accelerate Thailand’s recovery, generate income, and restore traveller confidence.

In a speech delivered during his courtesy call at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Sirilatthayakorn declared: “Tourism is at the heart of Thailand’s economic recovery, and we must act with urgency and precision. By focusing on key source markets, reinforcing safety, and aligning with global events such as the SEA Games, we will ensure that Thailand remains one of the world’s most trusted and desirable destinations.”

A key to economic growth

Sirilatthayakorn likewise emphasised the role of tourism as a vital engine of the national economy and outlined four priority measures:

• First, to drive international markets with ambitious targets over the next four months, focusing on seven high-potential markets: China, Japan, Korea, India, and the wider Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, while maintaining balance with other global markets. In particular, the Welcome Back, China! campaign will reinforce Thai–Chinese relations and restore strong momentum from this vital source market;
• Second, to strengthen visitor confidence under the concept Travel Safe, Worry Free through enhanced safety services. These include the 24-hour Tourist Police Call Centre at 1155 and the multilingual Thailand Tourist Police mobile application, which supports eight languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Russian, and offers incident reporting, information services, and an SOS function connected to provincial centres nationwide;
• Third, to advance Smart Safety, Smart Tourism by applying technology to protect travellers. AI Detect systems will be used to scan faces and cross-check with national arrest warrant databases, helping to monitor high-risk individuals. This will be combined with publicity for designated “safe zones” at tourist sites across the country to assure both international visitors and local communities; and
• Fourth, under the principle “Thailand Together,” the Ministry will work with all sectors to ensure full readiness for the 33rd SEA Games in December, coinciding with the peak tourism season. TAT has been assigned to promote both the Games and nearby destinations, while Thai people are encouraged to serve as warm and responsible hosts to international visitors.

Full support

TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibooll responded to the new minister’s announcement by saying: “TAT fully supports the Minister’s vision and will move forward with strong marketing campaigns, safety initiatives, and partnerships that showcase Thailand’s readiness.”

She concluded by pointing out how these efforts will reinforce traveller confidence, stimulate demand, and deliver sustainable economic benefits for Thailand.

The measures likewise highlight the government’s determination to revitalise tourism as a driver of national growth, improve safety and service standards, and maintain Thailand’s global reputation as a leading destination.

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The post The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa ushers in the holidays with a collection of experiences appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Celebrate the most magical time of the year in tropical elegance as The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa unveils a thoughtfully curated collection of festive experiences. 

From luxurious stays to indulgent culinary celebrations, guests are invited to create unforgettable holiday memories by the beach.

This festive season, the resort offers a four-night luxury stay package that includes Christmas Eve Dinner, Christmas Brunch, or the Glamorous Baliku New Year’s Eve Dinner, complete with prime access to the spectacular beachfront countdown party. 

These special inclusions are limited, with the stay period running from 22nd December 2025 to 6th January 2026.

Beyond the main festive highlights, the resort also presents a series of exceptional dining experiences from 23rd to 31st December.

These activities are designed to delight both in-house guests and those wishing to celebrate at the property. 

Curated by experts

Each event is carefully curated to reflect the warmth of the holiday spirit, the charm of Balinese hospitality, and the resort’s commitment to creating exceptional guest experiences. 

A variety of exclusive festive activities will also be available for in-house guests, designed to enhance the holiday spirit and create lasting memories.

In addition to the festive dining and curated experiences, guests can also indulge in seasonal pampering at Kahyangan Spa. 

The Holiday Radiance special treatment offers a luxurious escape featuring a soothing Balinese massage, followed by a manicure, perfect for leaving guests feeling relaxed, refreshed, and radiant throughout the season.

Whether staying with us during the holidays or simply looking for a magical venue to celebrate the season, The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa invites everyone to share in the joy, elegance, and festive enchantment by the sea.

December dining delights

The festive dining schedule includes:

• Taste of Bali – 23rd December, an authentic Balinese buffet dinner in our lush garden, accompanied by Live Balinese Dance Performances; welcome dance, barong dance, and fire dance for a magical night at our resort.
• Christmas Eve Dinner – 24th December, an elegant 6-course dinner set by the beach in a warm and joyful atmosphere, with live acoustic and saxophone performance
• Christmas Brunch – 25th December, a festive buffet featuring a delicious spread of holiday favorites with live choir performances and a special visit from Santa for a joyful holiday experience.
• Seaside BBQ Dinner – 27th December, featuring fresh seafood, premium grilled cuts, and international dishes, all set to the soulful tunes of the Ocean Avenue Duo.
• The Pearl & Sparkle Sunset Soirée – 31st December, featuring champagne, oysters, and caviar as you toast to a dazzling sunset by the sea.
• Glamorous Baliku NYE Dinner featuring delightful Balinese specialties and captivating cultural performances for a memorable night of elegance and tradition. The evening continues with a DJ performance, leading into a Spectacular NYE Countdown – 31st   December.

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The post StarCruises and Greater Bay Area Satellite TV bring wellness aboard with the TCM Maritime Culture Festival appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Star Cruises and Greater Bay Area Satellite TV have teamed up to launch the Traditional Chinese Medicine  (TCM) Maritime Culture Festival aboard the Star Voyager.

Focused on the theme Vibrant Games, Healthy  Navigation, the initiative takes cruises beyond mere leisure by integrating TCM culture into the overall experience.

Indeed, the festival brings travellers on a maritime journey that blends wellness, learning, culture,  sightseeing and immersive discovery. 

StarDream Cruises president Michael Goh enthused: “We are excited to partner with Greater Bay Area Satellite TV to bring TCM wellness to the seas.  This unique integration of culture and healthy living reflects our commitment to offering  experiences that go beyond expectations, and we will continue creating themed voyages that  enrich our guests’ journeys.”

A representative from Greater Bay Area Satellite TV added: “This cross-border collaboration with StarCruises to  create the Maritime TCM Culture Festival aims to explore new pathways for integrating traditional  culture with modern lifestyles. We hope to make health concepts and TCM culture more  accessible through audiovisual media, contributing to cultural heritage and the advancement of  public health initiatives.” 

A voyage into wellness

Guests can experience this exclusive festival on two of Star Voyager’s special sailings  departing from Hong Kong. 

These include the 5 Night Halong Bay–Da Nang–Sanya Cruise departing on 19 October 2025, and the 5 Night Boracay–Coron Cruise departing on 9  November 2025. 

The themed voyage introduces guests to the traditions of TCM while offering an immersive cruise  experience. 

On Star Voyager, guests can take part in morning wellness sessions such as  Baduanjin, a form of traditional Chinese qigong exercise, set against the refreshing sea breeze.  

The onboard theatre will host exciting interactive wellness talks by nationally renowned  physicians, offering guests practical tips on seasonal health preservation.

Guests can also enjoy  specialized treatments including ear acupressure and meridian massages, designed to  promote balance and relaxation throughout their journey. 

Food also plays an important role in the experience, as the Medicinal Food Homology-themed  banquet, jointly crafted by TCM experts and Star Voyager’s master chefs, blends traditional  efficacy with contemporary flavours, weaving health concepts into every dining occasion. 

With wellness infused into every part of the journey, this is a  voyage not to be missed. 

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The post Atiom expands current partnership with Accor appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Technological behavioral change platform Atiom is expanding its current strategic partnership with global hospitality group Accor.

This broadened commitment is set to drive continued operational excellence and strengthen team morale across the hotel group’s global operations throughout the Americas, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.

The expanded partnership with Accor represents a significant step forward in Atiom’s mission to transform team engagement and performance in the global hospitality industry, reinforcing its market presence and global expansion strategy. 

Atiom CEO Matthew Spriegel said of the expanded partnership: “We are delighted to take another exciting step in our partnership with Accor. Working with iconic brands like Raffles, Fairmont, and Sofitel enables us to increase our credibility in the luxury hospitality market and further refine our solutions. In the wider market context, it enables us to set a benchmark for other luxury hotels and service providers.”

What came before and what happens now

The collaboration initially involved the integration of Atiom’s innovative solutions across Accor’s network.

Since 2022, the roll-out has covered 25 Accor brands with the additions of well-known luxury brands such as Raffles, Fairmont and Sofitel. 

Additionally, lifestyle brands from Ennismore in Southeast Asia have also recently implemented Atiom’s technology solution. 

Using Atiom’s AI Assistant, frontline hotel operational teams gain tools to support their work, including generating daily training, AI tutor modules, and skills practice, ultimately boosting the customer experience. 

By introducing Atiom’s gamified learning platform, brands like those from Accor aim to engage their staff better and provide new learning opportunities enabling them to improve performance and boost overall staff morale. 

On the other hand, Accor’s goal is to reallocate the time saved through these digital tools directly back into meaningful human connection with their members, thereby truly elevating their ALL Accor loyalty programme experience.

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The post Delta marks 20 years of partnership with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

This October, Delta is turning pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, continuing its two-decade partnership with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). Since 2005, Delta employees and customers have raised more than $33 million for BCRF, helping fund 132 research projects and 660,000 hours of critical research. In the past year alone, Delta reached a record-breaking milestone, raising $5 million — a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished together.

Supporting breast cancer research is more critical than ever. In 2025, an estimated 319,750 people in the U.S. — including 2,800 men — will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Thanks to organizations like BCRF, groundbreaking advancements are being made. BCRF provided support for Clairity Breast, the first FDA-authorized AI-powered platform that predicts a woman’s five-year breast cancer risk using a standard mammogram. This innovation is paving the way for more personalized, equitable, and earlier detection — especially for younger women.

With over 4 million survivors in the U.S. today, continued investment in research is helping improve survival rates and close racial disparities in outcomes. Every donation helps accelerate progress and brings us closer to a future without breast cancer.

“For many of us, breast cancer is personal,” said Kristen Manion Taylor, SVP – In-Flight Service. “We’ve fought it, stood by loved ones through it and united as a community against it. The strength and support of the Delta family makes that possible.”

On Sept. 22, Delta celebrated with 180 employee survivors, fighters and supporters aboard its annual Breast Cancer One charter from Atlanta to Salt Lake City. More than a tradition, the flight reflects Delta’s unwavering support for employees navigating breast cancer and stands as a symbol of unity, resilience and hope within the Delta family.

“Delta’s extraordinary partnership over the past 20 years has fueled groundbreaking research and brought us closer to ending breast cancer,” said Donna McKay, President and CEO of BCRF. “Together with Delta employees and customers, we’ve turned compassion into action. We are deeply proud to stand with Delta as they mark this incredible milestone.”

As Delta celebrates its 100th anniversary, the airline remains committed to supporting organizations like BCRF that drive meaningful change. Customers are invited to join in the effort throughout October, both in the air and on the ground.

ON BOARD

Throughout October, Delta customers have the opportunity to support the BCRF while in flight with 25% of proceeds from all onboard food and beverage purchases being donated to BCRF. Featured Pink Drinks listed below go even further, with 100% of sales directly supporting breast cancer research.

• Minute Maid Pink Lemonade: A sweet and sunny twist made with real lemons — a refreshing classic that supports a powerful cause.

• Pink Ribbon Refresher: A vibrant blend of Sprite®, Minute Maid® Pink Lemonade and a splash of cranberry juice inspired by the real change made in the fight against breast cancer. Customers may choose to enjoy it as a mocktail or add a spirit of their choice.

• Pink Promise Punch: A crisp combination of Seagram’s® Ginger Ale, Minute Maid® Pink Lemonade and apple juice. Served as a mocktail or cocktail, this drink is a toast to hope and progress in breast cancer research.

• Une Femme Sparkling Rose: Back by popular demand, Une Femme’s sparkling rosé is more than a celebration — it’s a commitment. A portion of proceeds from each bottle supports efforts to end breast cancer.

Customers can also make direct donations on board using credit or debit cards, with flight attendants collecting contributions throughout the month.

IN THE LOUNGES 

Throughout October, Delta customers visiting Delta Sky Clubs or Delta One Lounges will be offering a limited-edition “Pretty in Pink” drink. In addition to enjoying this special drink, guests will find a QR code, making it easy to donate directly to BCRF.

Every sip and every scan help fuel vital research and support those impacted.

ONLINE 

Throughout October and year-round, customers can donate funds by visiting delta.com/BCRF and miles through SkyWish, the charitable arm of Delta’s SkyMiles and frequent flyer program, which allows Delta and its SkyMiles members to donate miles to charitable organizations worldwide.

 

 

 

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The post New Zealand Commerce Commission: NZ airports not delivering customers’ needs appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A recent report from the New Zealand Commerce Commission points out that the country’s airports are struggling to meet the evolving needs of today’s passengers.

The Commission’s Targeted Review of Airport Regulation highlighted several high-level observations around possible legislative amendments.

However, the Commission assures airports throughout the country that it has, so far, rejected all calls to review regulation that requires them to act in the best interests of consumers.

Furthermore, the Commerce Commission’s report has highlighted a timing gap that reduces its ability to influence outcomes before they are locked in, and that the options available to them through a Section 56 inquiry aren’t fit for purpose. 

Response from airport and airline executives

Cath O’Brien, executive director of New Zealand’s Board of Airline Representatives, nevertheless lauded the Commission’s report, citing its benefits to both airlines and the passengers whom they serve.

O’Brien said: “This makes sense. Early disclosures about very substantial capital plans allow the commission to make sure these very high cost plans deliver on what they promise Kiwis. This is very similar to what the commission already does for other large scale monopoly investments.”

Auckland Airport CEO Carrie Hurihanganui expressed gratitude for the Commission’s rejection of calls for a formal inquiry into airport regulation.

Hurihanganui“Auckland Airport owns and operates one of New Zealand’s most strategically important infrastructure sites and we are investing to ensure it delivers for the future.  These essential upgrades are creating jobs, boosting resilience, improving the customer experience and adding the capacity our national gateway needs for growth.  This investment will benefit all airlines and users of the airport.”

Air New Zealand weighs in

At the same time, senior management at Air New Zealand also welcomed the report, urging all parties involved towards further action to ensure New Zealand’s critical airport infrastructure delivers better outcomes for Kiwi travellers as well as long-term economic growth for the country. 

Airline CEO Greg Foran weighed in by saying: “We welcome the Commerce Commission’s report and its recommendations to enable earlier oversight of large airport spending. The report also highlighted significant gaps in how the current oversight regime works and called for targeted changes. These changes may well achieve what we had hoped to accomplish through an inquiry. This is not a vote of confidence in the status quo, and the Commission’s recommendations should be acted on with urgency before further costs are locked in and passed on to everyday Kiwi travellers and businesses.”

Foran explained that airports are critical infrastructure for New Zealand and this is the second time this year that an independent review has found that their investments are not delivering long-term benefits for Kiwi consumers.

He elaborated by saying: “In 2023, Air New Zealand paid Auckland Airport $61 million. This year, that’s risen to $144 million. By 2032, we expect to be paying them $476 million with no effective oversight of how those costs are set before they’re locked in. Unfortunately, it’s New Zealanders who will bear the brunt of these increases. Add in another $248 million in government agency fees and levies and the bill climbs to $724 million in 2032. And Auckland is just one of 48 ports we operate from.”

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