Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) has announced it has secured $115 million in Series B funding to enter the pre-production and certification phase of the EL9, the first-ever Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in 150 feet – roughly 10% of the footprint required for similarly-sized legacy airplanes. The round was led by Prysm Capital, and Jay Park, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Prysm, has joined Electra's Board of Directors.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has long been defined by its dual Asian heritage that is deeply rooted in the Group’s founding flagship hotels: The Mandarin in Hong Kong and The Oriental in Bangkok. The spirit of both hotels has been instrumental in creating the Mandarin Oriental brand, from the pioneering, innovative spirit of Hong Kong since 1963 to the graceful Asian style and service famously delivered by the Thai property over the past 150 years.

Mabrian’s latest hospitality market report concludes that strengthening mid-range offerings and realigning hotel experiences with global standards, particularly among upscale and luxury accommodation, is essential for boosting competitiveness in Middle East hotel market. The ultimate goal is to foster increased international arrivals and sustainable tourism growth in the region, as well as attracting global hospitality brands and enhancing profitability across hotel segments.

The election of the next Secretary General of UN Tourism marks a critical turning point for the future of global tourism. There are only two different options: One, is the path of stagnation: a push for an unprecedented third term, despite widespread criticism and growing concern within the global community. It’s a path that has disregarded core United Nations values—including the regional rotation of the role of Secretary-General of UN Tourism.

Qantas is celebrating 90 years of international flying, marking an incredible milestone in the evolution of the aviation industry and nine decades of connecting Australia with the world. On 17 April 1935, Qantas operated Australia’s first international passenger flight from Brisbane to Singapore, carrying two customers on a DH86 aircraft. The flight took three and a half days with 16 stops along the way.

Aeroplan, Canada's leading travel loyalty program, has partnered with Chexy, an innovative Canadian-founded, female-led fintech platform, to help members turn payments for essential services like rent, bills and taxes into rewards. Starting today, Aeroplan members across Canada can earn Aeroplan points through Chexy, with Aeroplan credit cardholders earning even more points when paying with their card. (CNW Group/Air Canada) Chexy enables members to use their credit card for large, routine payments typically made via e-transfer or pre-authorized debit or bill payment — helping them earn points, build credit and get more out of expenses that usually go unrewarded. Chexy joins Aeroplan's growing list of world-class retail partners, including Starbucks, Uber, LCBO, and 1,200+ participating Parkland fuel and convenience stores Canada-wide and more.