Travel Industry News Page 534

Hyatt Place Kathmandu opens in Nepal
The new hotel features the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi everywhere and 24-hour food offerings.

World Children’s Day headed to Expo 2020
Organised by Expo 2020 Dubai, in partnership with the UAE ministry of community development and UNICEF, the packed agenda includes inspiring talks and a concert with the acclaimed Lebanese singer Yara.

Amadeus signs landmark deal with Marriott International
The system will provide greater flexibility in choosing guest room attributes, and purchasing products like spa and golf when booking a stay.

Qatar Airways welcomes first Boeing 777-9 to Doha
Qatar Airways has showcased its role as a global launch customer for the latest generation Boeing 777-9 aircraft after welcoming the jet to Doha International Airport.

Wyndham Hotels expands Trip.com deal in Asia Pacific
Trip.com has signed a global agreement with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, giving travellers access to 22 brands across a range of segments.

Jet2 racks up losses but remains optimistic
Jet2 has reported a pre-tax loss of £206 million for the half-year ended September 30th. This is a significant increase on losses of £119 million recorded for the same period last year.

NBA games headed to Abu Dhabi next year
The National Basketball Association and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi have announced a multiyear partnership to host the first NBA games in the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai Airshow: Akasa Air prepares for take-off with US$9bn Boeing order
Boeing and Akasa Air have announced the new Indian carrier has ordered 72 737 Max airplanes to build its fleet. The deal is valued at nearly $9 billion at list prices.

UK pavilion to examine future of travel at Expo 2020
Taking place on the UK Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, ‘In the Future… How will we Travel?’ will investigate how to provide futuristic and sustainable transportation across the globe.
Steel cutting ceremony held for Celebrity Ascent in France
The first steel has been cut for Celebrity Ascent. Executives signed the ceremonial first cut of steel at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, earlier.

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer opens in Australia
Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer is now open. This property brings the brand to Australia’s most liveable city and unveils parent company Accor’s second Mövenpick Hotel in Australia.

Flybe confirms Birmingham base as return nears
Among the first UK airlines to be certified by the Civil Aviation Authority since Brexit, Flybe will serve key regions across the UK and EU. Departures are expected to start in the spring.