Business Travel News: November 2024

Industry

Changi Airport invests S$3 billion in upgrades

This initiative is set to improve passenger experiences through various upgrades, including advancements in baggage handling, check-in processes, immigration procedures, and Skytrain connections, while also replacing outdated systems. These enhancements are crucial for maintaining the airport’s competitiveness and preparing for the expected increase in air travel leading up to the opening of Terminal 5 in the mid-2030s. Read more.

Hong Kong should open up new routes, not worry about airport overcapacity: industry experts

Heads of Airport Authority committee and logistics association say current figures for air traffic less important than city’s longer term goals. Read more.

Who’s paying more to fly? Most of us

The study showed a sharp rise in domestic airfares during the first half of 2024 compared to 2019 levels. Notable increases were seen in key domestic markets such as India (+43%), Vietnam (+63%), Malaysia (+36%), Thailand (+26%), and Australia (+21%), all of which heavily rely on domestic air travel. Read more.

Japan shakes hands with Qatar in tourism collaboration

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) aims to boost tourism by collaborating with Qatar, highlighting the positive impact of the visa waiver for Qatari citizens in increasing visitor numbers to Japan, according to a report by Gulf Times. JNTO is set to participate in the upcoming Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) as part of this effort, which is anticipated to benefit both economies. Read more.

 

Airlines/ Airports

IAG: How AI is Impacting the Aviation Industry

Even though AI is being adopted and maximised worldwide, perhaps a less well known industry it’s also impacting is the aviation sector. The global aviation industry is changing as AI technologies become increasingly integrated into its operations. Read more.

Cathay Unveils ‘Song of Cathay’, its New Sonic Branding that Captures the Love for Travel and Aviation

Sound incites emotions and connects us. Embark on a musical odyssey that unveils our creative process in crafting a song that encapsulates our unique identity – a song that moves our passengers and their journey to greater heights. Listen to Song of Cathay

Hotels

Hotel CEOs Say Demographics Are the Future of Travel

From a rising middle class to an aging population, the most powerful leaders in hospitality agree demographics are key.-  Josh Corder. Read more.

Marriott International launches new sustainable events programme

Marriott International has launched its Connect Responsibly with Marriott Bonvoy Events (Connect Responsibly) programme, designed to help meeting planners embed sustainability into their events at participating hotels in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. Read more.