The post Greater Bay Airlines starts scheduled service to Datong this week appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) starts operating a scheduled service to Datong, Shanxi Province this week, making it a total of eight destinations in the airline’s Chinese Mainland network. This new route operates two flights per week, every Tuesday and Saturday, between Hong Kong and Datong (Datong Yungang International Airport).

Located in the northern part of Shanxi Province, Datong is among the nine ancient cities in China and is a National Famous Historical and Cultural City designated by the State Council back in 1982. On top of numerous tourist attractions are the Yungang Grottoesthat were inscribed in the list of the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 2001.

The stunning Mount Hengshan, also known as North Yue, is one of the five great mountains in China. The key protected cultural relics of the city include Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple and Xuankong Temple. The Datong Art Museum’s sculptural form that is conceived as a series of interconnected pyramids is another must see.

To book a trip, customers may visit the GBA website (www.greaterbay-airlines.com),GBA mobile app or contact their travel agents.

A value carrier based in Hong Kong, GBA commenced scheduled service in July 2022 and is currently operating scheduled flights between Hong Kong and Bangkok, Taipei,Tokyo, Osaka, Sendai, Sapporo, Manila, Phu Quoc, Zhoushan, Huangshan, Yichang,Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Quanzhou, Xuzhou and Datong with a fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

 

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The post Saona Island or Catalina Island: Which Caribbean getaway would you Choose from Punta Cana in DR? appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Punta Cana, nestled on the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, is a quintessential Caribbean paradise renowned for its powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant local culture. As one of the most sought-after tropical destinations in the world, Punta Cana offers an array of activities to suit every traveler’s taste. Among the many attractions, two islands stand out as must-visit day-trip destinations: Saona Island and Catalina Island.

Choosing between these two gems can be a delightful dilemma for travellers. Saona Island, part of the Dominican Republic’s National Park system, captivates visitors with its serene natural beauty and cultural charm. On the other hand, Catalina Island appeals to adventurers and snorkeling enthusiasts with its vibrant coral reefs and secluded beaches. Both islands are conveniently located within a short distance from Punta Cana, making them ideal for day trips.

For those planning their excursions, hotels in Punta Cana serve as perfect bases, offering easy access to organized tours and ensuring a seamless travel experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, these islands promise unforgettable memories in the heart of the Caribbean.

Overview of Saona Island

Saona Island, a protected part of the Dominican Republic’s National Park system, is a slice of paradise that embodies the essence of the Caribbean. Known for its untouched natural beauty, the island boasts pristine beaches, lush palm groves, and shimmering turquoise waters that seem almost unreal. It’s no wonder Saona is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Punta Cana.

Key Attractions

• La Piscina Natural: This iconic natural pool is a shallow lagoon where warm waters gently lap against the shore, creating the perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. Travelers often wade through waist-deep water while enjoying refreshing drinks served directly to them by local vendors on floating bars.
• Indigenous Village of Mano Juan: A visit to this charming village offers a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore traditional wooden houses, interact with friendly locals, and learn about the island’s history and traditions.
• Palm-Fringed Beaches: The island’s beaches are lined with swaying coconut palms, providing a picture-perfect backdrop for sunbathing, photography, or simply unwinding in tranquility.

Many hotels in Punta Cana offer organized tours to Saona Island, making it incredibly convenient for travelers to plan their visits. These tours typically include round-trip transportation, guided experiences, and meals, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable excursion.

Overview of Catalina Island

For travelers seeking a quieter and more exclusive experience, Catalina Island is the perfect alternative to Saona. This small yet enchanting island is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering a more intimate connection with the Caribbean’s marine wonders.

Key Attractions

• Wall Diving at “The Wall”: Catalina Island is famous among diving enthusiasts for its dramatic underwater cliffs, known as “The Wall.” This site features stunning drop-offs adorned with colorful coral formations and diverse marine life, making it a dream destination for experienced divers.
• Vibrant Coral Reefs: The island’s coral reefs are teeming with marine biodiversity, including schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. Snorkelers will find themselves immersed in an underwater wonderland just moments away from the shore.
• Secluded Beaches: Unlike the bustling beaches of Saona, Catalina offers tranquil, uncrowded shores where visitors can enjoy a private escape. These hidden gems provide the perfect setting for couples or solo travelers looking to disconnect from the world.

Catalina Island’s exclusivity and focus on adventure make it an appealing choice for those who prefer a more active and personalized experience. Its proximity to Punta Cana ensures that even a day trip feels like a mini-getaway to a secluded paradise.

Choosing your favourite Activities

When deciding between Saona Island and Catalina Island, travellers should consider the types of activities each destination offers and how they align with their interests.

Saona Island: Relaxation and Cultural Experiences

• Relaxation: Saona is synonymous with leisure, offering calm waters, palm-lined beaches, and natural pools where visitors can unwind.
• Cultural Experiences: A visit to the village of Mano Juan provides insight into the island’s indigenous roots and local way of life.
• Family-Friendly: With its gentle waters and laid-back atmosphere, Saona is an excellent choice for families traveling with children.

Catalina Island: Adventure and Exploration

• Snorkeling and Diving: Catalina’s vibrant coral reefs and “The Wall” attract thrill-seekers and underwater explorers.
• Adventure Sports: From kayaking to paddleboarding, the island offers opportunities for active pursuits.
• Romantic Getaways: Its secluded beaches and intimate ambiance make Catalina ideal for couples seeking privacy and romance.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences. Families and those seeking relaxation may lean toward Saona Island, while adventure enthusiasts and couples might prefer the exclusivity of Catalina Island.

Accessibility and Travel Time

Traveling to Saona Island and Catalina Island from Punta Cana is a seamless experience, thanks to the variety of transportation options available. Both islands are conveniently accessible by boat, ensuring a scenic journey through the Caribbean waters.

• Saona Island: The island is typically reached by catamaran or speedboat, with travel times ranging from 1 to 2 hours depending on the departure point and type of vessel. Catamarans offer a more leisurely and picturesque ride, often accompanied by music, drinks, and stunning coastal views. Speedboats, on the other hand, provide a quicker and more direct route for those eager to reach the island faster.
• Catalina Island: Located closer to Punta Cana, Catalina Island is accessible by boat in just 45 minutes to 1 hour. This shorter travel time makes it an ideal choice for travelers with limited schedules or those seeking a quick yet memorable escape.

Booking excursions through hotels in Punta Cana, such as the luxurious Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort Spa & Casino, ensures hassle-free transfers and guided experiences. Many hotels offer organized tours that include round-trip transportation, meals, and activities, allowing travelers to focus solely on enjoying their adventure.

Cost effective Considerations

When planning your excursion, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with visiting Saona Island and Catalina Island, as they cater to different budgets and preferences.

• Saona Island: Often included in all-inclusive packages offered by hotels in Punta Cana, excursions to Saona Island provide excellent value for money. These packages typically cover transportation, guided tours, meals, and access to natural pools like La Piscina Natural. For budget-conscious travelers, this option eliminates unexpected expenses while delivering a full day of relaxation and fun.
• Catalina Island: While equally captivating, Catalina Island may involve additional costs depending on your interests. Adventure seekers who wish to explore “The Wall” or vibrant coral reefs might need to rent diving gear or book private boat charters, which can add to the overall expense. However, for those passionate about snorkeling and marine life, the investment is well worth the unforgettable underwater experience.

Ultimately, the value for money depends on the type of experience you’re seeking. Families and relaxation enthusiasts may find Saona Island more economical, while adventurers and divers might prioritize Catalina Island despite the potential extra costs.

Insider Tips for Choosing the Right Excursion

Deciding between Saona Island and Catalina Island can be challenging, but these insider tips will help you make the best choice based on your preferences and needs:

• Consider Your Travel Style: If you’re looking for a laid-back day filled with sunbathing, swimming in natural pools, and cultural exploration, Saona Island is the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you thrive on adventure and love snorkeling or diving, Catalina Island offers a thrilling alternative.
• Check Reviews and Recommendations: Before booking, read reviews of tour operators to ensure quality service and memorable experiences. Look for operators known for safety, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.
• Confirm Exclusive Deals: Many hotels in Punta Cana, including the Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort Spa & Casino, offer exclusive deals or discounts on excursions. Confirm whether your hotel provides special rates or bundled packages to maximize savings.
• Combine Both Excursions: If time permits, consider visiting both islands during your stay. Each destination offers unique attractions that complement one another, providing a well-rounded taste of the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty.

By following these tips, you’ll not only choose the right excursion but also enhance your overall travel experience.

Immersive experiences in the Dominican Republic

Both Saona Island and Catalina Island offer unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic. Whether you prefer the serene beaches and cultural charm of Saona or the adventurous allure of Catalina’s underwater wonders, each island promises an unforgettable escape tailored to your interests.

Staying at hotels in Punta Cana, such as the Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort Spa & Casino, ensures easy access to these must-visit destinations. With all-inclusive packages and expertly curated excursions, these hotels simplify planning and allow you to focus on creating lasting memories.

If possible, explore both islands to fully appreciate the diversity of experiences they offer. From relaxing on palm-fringed shores to diving into kaleidoscopic coral reefs, Saona Island and Catalina Island showcase the very best of the Caribbean.

Ready to embark on the ultimate Caribbean adventure? Book your stay at the Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort Spa & Casino today and enjoy effortless access to both Saona Island and Catalina Island excursions. With luxurious accommodations, all-inclusive packages, and proximity to these stunning destinations, the resort is your gateway to a truly unforgettable vacation in Punta Cana.

Don’t miss out—plan your dream getaway now!

 

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The post Fueling the Future: oneworld Airlines Bet Big on Clean Skies with $150M Sustainable Aviation Fuel Fund appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In a bold move to decarbonize the skies, global airline alliance oneworld and its member carriers have joined forces with Breakthrough Energy Ventures (BEV), the climate-focused investment firm founded by Bill Gates. Together, they have launched a $150 million fund aimed at scaling the next generation of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).

Led by cornerstone investors Alaska Airlines and American Airlines, and joined by International Airlines Group (IAG), Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Singapore Airlines, the fund signals a major step toward transforming the aviation industry’s fuel supply chain. The initiative marks one of the most significant collective investments in SAF to date, addressing two critical industry challenges: limited availability and high production costs.

Climate Innovation Takes Flight

BEV will act as the fund’s investment manager, bringing its deep technical expertise, rigorous evaluation processes, and a track record of nurturing climate tech startups. The goal: to identify and scale SAF technologies that can deliver real emissions reductions, compete with fossil-based jet fuels on cost, and work seamlessly with today’s aviation infrastructure. “Sustainable Aviation Fuel is essential to addressing the sector’s environmental impact and represents a major commercial opportunity. The oneworld BEV Fund is built to scale breakthrough SAF technologies with staying power,” said Eric Toone, Chief Technology Officer at Breakthrough Energy and Managing Partner at BEV.

Why SAF Matters Now

Air travel currently accounts for about 2–3% of global CO₂ emissions, but demand for aviation is expected to rise in the coming decades. SAF—fuels made from renewable or waste sources—can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. However, SAF still accounts for less than 0.1% of global aviation fuel use, and the sector has struggled to attract the scale of investment needed to grow. That’s where this fund steps in. The oneworld BEV Fund will prioritize innovations that are not only cleaner but also cost-effective and scalable, helping to build a diverse and resilient supply chain for aviation fuel in the decades to come.

Collective Action Across Alliances

What’s particularly notable is the cross-alliance collaboration. While oneworld member airlines lead the effort, Singapore Airlines, a Star Alliance member, has also invested in the fund—showcasing an industry-wide recognition of the need for climate action. “Reducing the carbon emissions of jet fuel demands collective action,” said Lee Wen Fen, Chief Sustainability Officer at Singapore Airlines. “This investment demonstrates our strong support for driving innovation in next-generation fuels.”

According to Robert Isom, CEO of American Airlines and Chairman of oneworld, the airline and oneworld partners are making a business decision to accelerate the development of novel technologies with the potential to reach larger scale at lower prices by investing in the SAF technologies of the future.

This strategic commitment comes at a time when the aviation industry faces mounting pressure to decarbonize amid rising passenger demand and tightening climate regulations. While first-generation SAF has shown promise, limited supply, high costs, and scalability issues have hindered widespread adoption. By channeling capital into cutting-edge fuel technologies, the oneworld BEV Fund aims to close this critical gap—unlocking a path toward cleaner skies and a more resilient aviation sector for decades to come.

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The post Machu Picchu Access Restored After Protests: What Travellers Can Expect Now appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism is once again flowing to Peru’s most iconic destination, Machu Picchu, after protests by local residents temporarily shut down access routes and left hundreds of international travellers stranded. As of now, train services have resumed between the ancient Inca site and the gateway town of Aguas Calientes, bringing much-needed relief to Peru’s vital tourism sector.

The disruption began this week, when members of the Machu Picchu Defense Front blocked train tracks with rocks and logs. The protest was sparked by community demands to be included in the bidding process for a new bus operator responsible for transporting tourists from Aguas Calientes to the archaeological site. The previous operator’s 30-year concession had expired, but services continued, prompting calls for more local participation. Peruvian authorities responded quickly, organising the evacuation of approximately 1,400 visitors overnight. An additional 156 tourists were airlifted out the following evening, while others opted to trek down the mountain on foot. Those affected included visitors from the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Brazil, and Portugal.

The protests caused significant disruption to one of the world’s most visited heritage sites, with Machu Picchu typically receiving around 4,500 tourists daily. As negotiations progressed, residents agreed to a temporary truce, allowing PeruRail to resume operations and tourists to safely return. Authorities are now engaged in dialogue with local stakeholders to resolve the dispute and avoid further disruptions. While train services are back in operation, ongoing discussions will determine how the bus concession issue is settled. No timeline has been set for the final agreement, but officials aim to balance the interests of tourism operators and the local community.

Tourism is a major economic driver for Peru, and Machu Picchu’s uninterrupted accessibility remains crucial. The recent disruption underscores the importance of involving communities in tourism planning and ensuring that the benefits of travel reach those closest to the sites themselves.

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The post Thailand all set to Host Gastech 2026 in Bangkok appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Thailand underscores its readiness to host Gastech 2026, the world’s largest energy exhibition and conference returning after 18 years. At Gastech 2025 in Milan, the Thai team for the upcoming Bangkok edition extends an invitation to the global energy community, showcasing world-class MICE infrastructure, state-of-the-art venues, seamless connectivity, and Thailand’s internationally renowned hospitality with its distinctive Thai touch, illustrating the country as a premier hub for large-scale international business events.

As the country prepares to welcome global leaders, policymakers, and innovators in gas, LNG, hydrogen, climate technologies, and AI in energy at Gastech 2026, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB joins the Ministry of Energy at Gastech 2025 in Milan from 9–12 September to reaffirm Thailand’s commitment to driving the success of the event and advancing the nation’s strategic role in the global energy landscape. The event is expected to attract more than 50,000 attendees from 150 countries, 1,000 exhibiting companies, and 1,000 expert speakers to unite in powering a sustainable energy future.

Dr. Pasu Loharjun, Chairman of the Board, TCEB, said that “Thailand’s successful bid to host Gastech 2026, secured by TCEB, a national bidder, and the Ministry of Energy, acting as a host organization, along with multiple supporting organisations, is a significant milestone. It not only showcases our country’s robust MICE ecosystem but also underscores our commitment to leveraging business events as a platform to advance the growth of industries that hold the key to the future, with energy being a prime example. Thailand has been an exhibition hub in the Southeast Asian region, with TCEB supporting a number of regional energy trade shows each year, making it a promising source of participants for global energy events.

Gastech 2026 will feature a comprehensive conference program, an extensive exhibition, and a premier platform for business engagement and knowledge exchange with leading energy stakeholders from around the world. The event will allow Thailand to welcome energy ministers from multiple countries, strengthen the nation’s global standing, and generate substantial economic benefits through tourism, employment, and domestic expenditure. Overall, Gastech 2026 is projected to deliver an economic impact of approximately 385 million Euro, including 198 million Euro in national revenue, 38 million Euro in tax contributions, and the creation of 4,700 jobs.”

Supporting Thailand’s commitment to advancing its energy sector, Bangkok provides the ideal setting for Gastech 2026. As a world-class destination for global events, the city offers seamless connectivity through Suvarnabhumi Airport, one of the world’s most connected airports, served by 113 international airlines.

The Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC), where Gastech 2026 will take place, provides 70,000 sqm of versatile event space, including 10 expansive exhibition halls, six grand convention halls, and 28 breakout meeting rooms, all designed for events of international magnitude. With direct BTS Skytrain access to BITEC and over 50 hotels along the BTS line, delegates can enjoy convenient mobility and accommodation.

“Looking ahead to Gastech 2026, Thailand is ready to welcome the global energy community. With world-class facilities, rich culture, warm hospitality, and a strong focus on future industries, the event will foster collaboration and inspire progress in shaping the future of energy solutions,” added Dr. Pasu.

 

 

 

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The post ARI signs MOU with CEEJA to Promote Japanese Culture Across Europe  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ANA Strategic Research Institute Co., Ltd. (ARI) announced it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the European Center for Japanese Studies in Alsace (CEEJA), an educational and research institution in Europe. The MOU aims to combine the knowledge and resources  of both organizations to address social challenges and cultivate future leaders for a sustainable society. The  signing ceremony was held Sep. 14 in the VIP room of the France Pavilion at World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai.

Overview of the Agreement 

The partnership was first launched with an MOU in 2015 and expanded in 2019 to include ANA Holdings.  Building on this foundation, the new agreement marks a significant step forward in fostering cultural and regional  ties between Japan and Europe. Previous initiatives have achieved several key outcomes, including: – Agreements linking Japanese municipalities, such as Odate City and Bizen City, with their French counterparts. – The creation of a cultural exchange program between Akita Prefecture and Finland in 2023 through the ‘Japan Europe Regional Cooperation Help Desk’.

Under the new MOU, the partnership will broaden its reach to encompass all of Europe, with a heightened focus on showcasing Japanese culture, including traditional crafts and manga.

Key Areas of Collaboration  

ARI and CEEJA will focus on the following priority initiatives:

• Promoting traditional Japanese crafts in Europe: In partnership with The Yomiuri Shimbun’s “Action!  Dentou-Bunka” project and other business partners, the collaboration will expand efforts to showcase traditional Japanese crafts, highlighting cultural craftsmanship to new audiences across Europe.
• Supporting the 2027 MEMA opening: The agreement will strengthen ties between Japan’s manga related institutions and the new ” European Museum of Manga ＆ Anime ” (MEMA), which CEEJA plans to open in Colmar, France, in 2027. The initiative will establish MEMA as a premier destination for  Japanese manga culture.

New Agreement Signed; Representatives Deliver Remarks 

The MOU was signed by Ms. Junko Yazawa, President & CEO of ARI, and Catherine Trautmann, President of  CEEJA with the witness of Mr. Olivier Becht, Former Minister, Member of the French Parliament, and Board  member of CEEJA and Mr. Hideki Kunugi, Chaiman of ARI.

Junko Yazawa, President and CEO of ARI, said: ” I am very pleased to conclude this new MOU, which will  further strengthen the cooperative relationship between our two organizations, building on the achievements  we have accumulated so far. I am confident that expanding the area of exchange to all of Europe and  strengthening the promotion of Japanese culture, such as traditional crafts and manga, will be an extremely  important initiative for sharing Japanese culture with the world.”

Olivier Becht, Board Member of CEEJA, stated: ” I would like to express my gratitude for our partnership  with ANA, which has seen numerous collaborative projects over more than 10 years. Our cooperation,  previously limited to the Alsace region, will now expand to all of Europe. We aim to build a strong bond between  Alsace/Europe and Japan through a 360-degree cooperation that spans diverse fields, including economy,  culture, tourism, science, and academia.”

Through this new partnership, the ANA Strategic Research Institute will contribute to a sustainable society by  showcasing the appeal of Japanese traditional culture and content to the world and by further deepening cultural  and economic exchange between Japan and France.

 

 

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The post Qatar Airways Becomes First Ever Presenting Partner of the Ballon d’Or Award Ceremony appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Qatar Airways will make history this year as the first ever Presenting Partner of the world’s most prestigious award ceremony in football, Ballon d’Or, reinforcing the airline’s deep commitment to global sport and excellence. The landmark 69th edition of the Ballon d’Or® will take place on 22 September 2025 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.

For over six decades, the Ballon d’Or has crowned the greatest players in football, celebrating talent, dedication, and achievement on the world stage. This new partnership unites the World’s Best Airline with the world’s best players, and marks a milestone in Qatar Airways’ ongoing support of the global sporting community. As the airline that connects fans, players, and cultures across the globe, Qatar Airways’ role as the 69th Balon d’Or Ceremony Presenting Partner underscores its purpose-driven ambition – to bring the world together through the universal language of sport.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We are delighted to become the first ever Presenting Partner of the Ballon d’Or® Ceremony as we celebrate the legends who inspire generations. This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, and by aligning Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline with the World’s Best Footballers, we are reinforcing our brand’s dedication to being the very best in every arena we enter. Just as we connect people and places through our extensive network and award-winning service, this partnership will further our mission to connect dreams, cultures and the passion for football across continents.”

UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, said: “The Ballon d’Or is more than an award – it’s a celebration of inspirational talents who define football and its history. We are honoured to welcome Qatar Airways as the first presenting partner of this iconic ceremony. Together, we celebrate not only a passion for the beautiful game and excellence without borders, but also the profound value of bringing the world closer together.”

The Ballon d’Or® is awarded annually by France Football magazine, honouring the world’s best players across the Men’s and Women’s game. The full set of nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or can be found here.

This partnership marks another chapter in Qatar Airways’ portfolio of high-profile global sports partnerships, including the likes of FIFA, UEFA Champions League and National Team Competitions, Formula 1®, Paris-Saint Germain (PSG), FC Internazionale Milano, AFC, Tennis Legend – Novak Djokovic, The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), MotoGP, the IRONMAN Triathlon Series, French Rugby Team – Section Paloise, The Brooklyn Nets NBA Team, and multiple other disciplines including Australian football, equestrian, motor racing, padel, squash, and tennis.

 

 

 

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The post Emirates Skywards Partners with IBS Software appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IBS Software, a global leader in SaaS solutions for the travel industry, announced the successful go-live of its cloud-native iLoyal platform with Emirates Skywards, the award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai. The milestone marks the beginning of a long-term innovation partnership to modernize and future-proof the loyalty programme’s ecosystem, serving over 35 million members globally. At the core of this collaboration is IBS Software’s iLoyal platform, designed to drive real-time personalization, faster partner integration, and flexible program design, empowering Emirates Skywards to respond to evolving member expectations, unlock new business value, and enable 100+ global brand partners.

“This go-live is a proud moment for IBS Software and a testament to the power of strategic collaborations,” said Marcus Puffer, VP & Head of Loyalty Management Solutions at IBS Software. “iLoyal is more than a platform – it’s a catalyst for transforming the way airlines engage with their most valuable customers. Emirates Skywards is an iconic loyalty brand, and we’re honoured to support their vision for innovation and growth.”

“This partnership is a cornerstone of our innovation strategy,” said Dr. Nejib Ben-Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates Skywards. “Together with IBS Software, we are building a future-ready loyalty ecosystem that empowers us to deliver richer, more seamless, and more rewarding experiences to our members. With iLoyal, we’re not only enhancing current capabilities but laying the foundation for future innovation and growth.”

Ali Serdar Yakut, Executive Vice President IT, Emirates, added: “We are pleased to partner with IBS Software to modernize our loyalty infrastructure. The successful deployment of iLoyal reflects our shared vision for delivering world-class digital experiences.”

iLoyal is a SaaS-based loyalty solution, purpose built for the travel industry, empowering brands to design, manage and scale loyalty programmes.  Its modular architecture, open API framework, and robust compliance capabilities provide seamless partner integration and operational efficiency, delivering value to both operators and customers.

This successful implementation marks a significant step in IBS Software’s mission to lead digital transformation in the airline and travel sector, reaffirming its role as a trusted partner to the world’s leading aviation brands.

 

 

 

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The post Major Redevelopment of Gorakhpur Railway Station, Uttar Pradesh Undertaken by RICPL appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Major Upgradation and Redevelopment of Gorakhpur Railway Station is currently underway, marking a significant step towards enhancing passenger experience and modernizing one of India’s busiest rail hubs. Being executed on an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode, the project aims to transform the station into a futuristic, multi-modal transport hub, seamlessly integrating efficiency, sustainability, and cultural identity.

Parveen Gupta, Director, Ramacivil India Construction Pvt Ltd, said: “The Gorakhpur Railway Station redevelopment project is not just about upgrading infrastructure, but about creating a future-ready transit hub that can serve millions of passengers with efficiency, safety, and comfort. At RICPL, we are committed to delivering engineering excellence and sustainable design solutions that will redefine the passenger experience while respecting the cultural and civic identity of the city. This project represents a landmark transformation that aligns with India’s vision of modern and world-class railway infrastructure.”

The redevelopment of Gorakhpur Railway Station is envisioned not just as an infrastructural upgrade, but as a complete reimagining of passenger experience. Designed to function as a multi-modal transport hub, the project will enable smooth integration with other modes of public and private transport, making connectivity more efficient for millions of travelers.

The design approach places strong emphasis on contextual relevance, weaving in elements that resonate with the local culture and heritage of Gorakhpur while ensuring global standards of functionality. Sustainability forms a cornerstone of the project, with provisions for green building techniques such as solar energy generation, rainwater harvesting, and water conservation systems to minimize environmental impact.

Passenger amenities are being significantly enhanced to create a world-class experience. The upgraded station will feature dedicated resting zones, modern food kiosks, retail outlets, and advanced waiting areas, while also ensuring special facilities for Divyangjans (persons with disabilities) in line with universal design standards.

When completed, the redevelopment of Gorakhpur Railway Station will stand as a civic landmark of modern India- balancing heritage with innovation, sustainability with convenience, and efficiency with inclusivity.

Project Details

Typology: Railway Station Redevelopment Project

Name of Project: Major Upgradation / Redevelopment of Gorakhpur Railway Station (EPC Mode)

Location: Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh

Project Area: 2,59,749 sqm (including buildings, development works, and dismantling of existing structures)

Client: North Eastern Railway, Lucknow – Gati Shakti Unit

Scope of Work: Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC)

Completion Date: Ongoing

Contract Value (Approx.): INR 508.99 Crore

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The post Air India Express strengthens global reach  with IATA membership   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air India Express has officially become a member  of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), underscoring the airline’s  commitment to global best practices in safety, operations, and customer  experience. This is a significant milestone at a time when it has been rapidly  expanding its fleet, network, and partnerships.

IATA represents some 350 airlines from more than 120 countries, accounting for  over 80% of global air traffic. A condition for IATA membership is the IATA  Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), which is the global industry standard for airline  operational safety auditing. Airlines have to comply with over 900 standards in  order to achieve their IOSA registration.

”We welcome Air India Express into the IATA family. Air India Express has been  on the IOSA registry since 2017, and we are glad that they have taken the next step to become an IATA member. Having Air India Express as a member broadens the perspectives that we can bring to the global issues affecting our  industry,” said Sheldon Hee, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific.

Commenting on the membership, Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India  Express, said: ” Becoming a part of the IATA family is a proud moment for us. It highlights our commitment to enhance our global standing, assuring our  guests of world-class standards, and facilitates access to global partnerships.  As we continue to grow our footprint, IATA membership is an additional step  taken by Air India Express to ensure that every journey is supported by the  highest standards of reliability, safety, and convenience.”

For travellers, Air India Express will be able to contribute in shaping global  standards and policies that improve the travel experience, translating into a  smoother, more reliable experience worldwide.

Air India Express’ IATA membership also allows the airline to participate actively in the IATA Billing and Settlement Plans (BSP) around the world, extending the  global reach of the airline through IATA-accredited travel agents.

With a growing fleet of 115 aircraft, Air India Express operates over 500 daily  flights, connecting 41 domestic and 17 international destinations across the  Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. As India’s fastest –

 

 

 

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