The next generation of travel innovators has arrived. PhocusWire today announced its Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2026, highlighting the companies redefining how the world moves, books and experiences travel in an age of economic uncertainty and rapid artificial intelligence transformation. Despite two years of contracting venture funding, innovation in travel continues to surge. According to Phocuswright research, 95% of travel startups are either using AI or actively exploring its use, signaling a decisive shift toward AI-native business models. This wave of leaner, faster and more focused startups is transforming the competitive landscape, even as investors and incumbents recalibrate for a new era.

Madeira is gearing up for its spectacular Christmas lights switch-on on 1 December, marking the start of a vibrant season of festive celebrations. With improved flight connections from the UK this winter, it’s easier than ever for travellers to experience the island’s magical Christmas and New Year festivities. This winter*, weekly flights from the UK to Madeira have increased by 5%, with new routes from Bournemouth and Luton. With excellent connections from both London and regional airports - including Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow - the island offers nationwide access for travellers seeking winter sun and festive cheer.

The second edition of the film festival promoted by TAP Air Portugal on board its aircraft announced its winners yesterday, on World Cinema Day, at a ceremony held at the Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian. The short films in competition were screened on TAP flights throughout October and voted on by passengers and an international jury that included Rui Tendinha, Sónia Balacó, Paul Visser, João Antero, and Elisabete Mendes.

World Ski Awards, the only global initiative to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in ski tourism, has announced the winners of its 13th annual programme. Val Thorens, Europe’s highest resort, was named ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’ in recognition of setting the global standard for lift infrastructure, resort facilities and slopeside accommodation. Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley in Utah was voted ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel’, and Chalet Zermatt Peak claimed the stellar title of ‘World’s Best Ski Chalet’. Hôtel Le Pashmina took the title for ‘World’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel’ thanks to its exquisite facilities and ski-to-door access to Les Trois Vallées.

Etihad Airways and Hong Kong Airlines are strengthening their partnership by launching a codeshare partnership and establishing a reciprocal loyalty agreement. The loyalty agreement was signed during a ceremonial event in Hong Kong on the evening of 4 November 2025, coinciding with the arrival of Etihad’s inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong International Airport .

South African Airways (SAA) has expanded its African network with the launch of a new twice-daily service between Johannesburg and Gaborone, which commenced on 4 November 2025. “This route is more than a flight, it’s a strategic link in SAA’s broader commitment to enhancing intra-African connectivity,” said SAA Group CEO, Professor John Lamola, speaking at the launch event in Gaborone. “It reflects our vision to support trade, tourism, and regional integration across the continent.”