Business Travel News: October 2024

Industry

Op-Ed: Is data analytics enabling people to customise their travel plans?

Access to strategic data is creating a revolutionary shift in the way we plan and experience travels, for individuals and businesses alike. The age of cookie-cutter travel itineraries is fading rapidly. In its place is a new era where data analytics is revolutionising the way we plan and experience our journeys. This shift is not merely about convenience but rather, crafting unforgettable experiences tailored to individual preferences. Read more

Record business travel spending projected for 2024

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has projected global business travel spending will reach US$1.5 trillion in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 6.2%, according to its latest Economic Impact Trends Report.

This marks a significant recovery after previous years where business travel lagged, with virtual communication replacing many in-person meetings. In 2023, business travel spending was still 5.4% below 2019 levels, while leisure travel was only 2.9% below its pre-pandemic peak. Read more.

How to explore Macao through a Muslim traveller’s lens

Macao, defined by its rich heritage of Portuguese and Chinese influences, is a city renowned for its openness and ability to integrate diverse cultures. This multicultural foundation positions Macao as an ideal destination for Muslim travellers seeking new and welcoming experiences.

With the global Muslim travel market projected to reach 168 million international arrivals this year, according to the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index, destinations like Macao are becoming increasingly attractive to Muslim travellers looking for something beyond the conventional. Read more.

Airlines/ Airports

Is Cathay Pacific’s New Aria Suite Worth the Wait?

The Aria Suite is arguably the year’s most anticipated new business class product. Those hoping for pushing-the-envelope innovation may be disappointed, but this solid product hits all the right notes. Read more.

Airlines look to cut time spent on the tarmac

Next time you’re running at full tilt towards your airport gate, spare a thought for the airline staff who made sure that that gate was actually available.

Gate allocation is a surprisingly complex task.

“With 15 gates and 10 airplanes, there are more than 570 billion possibilities,” says Dr Joseph Doetsch, who has been working on the problem of gate allocation as quantum computing lead at Lufthansa Industry Solutions. Continue reading

Hotels

Asia is the new luxury hotspot for Virtuoso

As the epicentre of the world’s travel market shift towards Asia, the region is quickly becoming a key growth darling for Virtuoso, the global network of luxury travel advisors and providers. With a strong presence across the US, Europe, and Australia, Virtuoso is now doubling down its efforts and investment in Asia’s fast-growing luxury travel market. Read more.

Singapore’s iconic Hotel Fort Canning to change management hands

Singapore’s Hotel Fort Canning is set for a major transformation as Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) takes over its management. The Dubai-based company plans to rebrand the historic landmark as METT Singapore by Q3 2025, following a complete renovation. Read more.