Travel Industry News Page 589
flydubai and Boeing sign agreement for Space Bins on 737 MAX fleet
At the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX), Dubai-based carrier flydubai and Boeing announced an agreement to retrofit 21 of flydubai’s 737 MAX aircraft with larger Boeing Space Bins. Each Space Bin can accommodate up to six standard-sized bags per bin by turning a bag on its edge, an increase from four bags per bin compared to a standard bin.
flynas Celebrates Launching Its Direct Flights Between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi
flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, celebrated launching direct flights between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi on April 10, further expanding in the UAE market is in line with flynas growth and expansion plan, launched under the title “We Connect the World to the Kingdom,” in parallel with the objectives of the National Civil Aviation Strategy to enable national air carriers to contribute to connecting KSA with 250 International destinations and to accommodate 330 million passengers and to host 150 million tourists yearly by 2030 and the objectives of the Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP) to facilitate access to the Two Holy Mosques.
ETIHAD WELCOMES ITS LATEST A350
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has welcomed its sixth A350 to its growing fleet. The state-of-the-art aircraft arrived this weekend following a successful delivery flight from Toulouse, France, further strengthening Etihad’s position as one of the airlines with the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the sky.
Kempinski Hotels Welcomes Hoda Tahoun as Chief Talent Officer
Kempinski Hotels is pleased to announce the arrival of Hoda Tahoun as its new Chief Talent Officer as of 14 April 2025. In her role, Hoda will oversee the company’s global talent strategy, reinforcing its commitment to attracting, developing and retaining top-tier talent. This strategic move supports the Group’s journey to thoughtfully grow and reposition the iconic 127-year-old brand under the leadership of Barbara Muckermann, Kempinski’s Group Chief Executive Officer.
Meliá enters Southeast Asia through the conversion of Meliá’s iconic hotel in Bali
The group’s first international hotel, Meliá Bali, is set to become the first Paradisus by Meliá property in Asia, bringing the all-inclusive luxury brand to the region for the very first time Paradisus Bali will open its doors next December, introducing the brand’s signature experiential luxury to one of the most desirable corners of Indonesia
Alma Frequency Scales New Heights at Six Senses Crans-Montana in the Swiss Alps
Six Senses is broadening the horizons of Alma Frequency powered by Aníma to Six Senses Crans-Montana from June 5 to 8, bringing together a handpicked tribe of visionaries and pioneers in health and well-being. True to its original ethos of community, connection, and celebration, this four-day mountain edition will feature a curated program of progressive wellness, longevity science, holistic healing, and immersive practices in an extraordinary environment. Crans-Montana’s natural charms include 300 days of sunshine a year and exceptional air quality to reinvigorate the spirit and awaken all the senses.
IHG’s community partnerships in 2024
IHG Hotels & Resorts has published a new report to showcase the impact of the community partnerships it has forged in East Asia & Pacific. With 334,000 lives improved in 2024, the report shines a light on the inspirational partnerships established by IHG teams across this geographically diverse area.
The UK's National Forest Marks 30 Years of Transformation
As the National Forest marks 30 years of bold vision and vibrant growth, the 2025 National Forest Walking Festival is inviting walkers to step into the story—one footpath at a time. Running from 16 to 26 May, the festival is now in its 16th year, offering more than 80 walks across Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire. Whether you're looking for a gentle meander or a challenging trek, every walk offers a chance to explore this incredible landscape that has been reimagined and regenerated over the past three decades.
Tourism Fiji Launches Loloma Hour - a Happy Hour for the Environment
A New Approach to Sustainable Travel Tourism Fiji created the 'Loloma Hour' initiative as part of the country's overarching sustainability goals that aim to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage by unifying and amplifying sustainability efforts across Fiji's vital tourism industry. The goal in the first year is for Loloma hour to contribute at least 5,000 hours towards sustainability efforts across Fiji, ensuring meaningful impact for the ecosystems, coastlines and deeper engagement with local communities.
Marathon Weekend at W London: Stay, Spa, Celebrate
With the London Marathon fast approaching, W London is lacing up for the city's biggest race weekend with a calendar of high-energy happenings — from a limited-edition Marathon Weekend Package to recovery rituals, carb-loaded dining, and race-day celebrations. Available from Saturday 26 to Monday 28 April, it's Soho's most stylish spot to stay, refuel and raise a glass to the finish line.
The Best Spring Carnivals and Festivals by Ferry
Spring is a great time to consider a short break in Europe, with a variety of festivals and carnivals to discover. Ferry company DFDS, which runs three routes to France, has shared its guide to the best festivals to enjoy now.
Sam and Isabella Branson's Secluded Jungle Retreat
Ubud, Bali: The Luxe Nomad introduces Nag Shampa Private Estate by Sam and Isabella Branson, offering a truly immersive experience that combines the essence of traditional Balinese hospitality with contemporary comforts. Located just outside of Ubud, Nag Shampa Private Estate is nestled in the lush landscapes of Taro Village, one of the oldest villages in Bali where the ancient rhythm of life, prayer and ceremony established centuries ago, still exists today. The Estate wears the history of its location gracefully to welcome you with the peace and serenity that Bali has long been known for.