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Etihad Airways launches first-ever nonstop flights between the Middle East and Calgary

Etihad Airways launches first-ever nonstop flights between the Middle East and Calgary

30 January 2026 Press Release Airline News Organisations & Operators

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has announced the launch of the first-ever nonstop flights between the UAE and Calgary, creating a new strategic air link between the Middle East and Western Canada. Launching on 3 November 2026, the route marks another step in Etihad’s global expansion and supports Abu Dhabi’s long-term ambitions to drive international trade, tourism and investment.

IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL: VIRGIN ATLANTIC STRENGTHENS ITS HOME IN THE NORTH

IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL: VIRGIN ATLANTIC STRENGTHENS ITS HOME IN THE NORTH

30 January 2026 Press Release Airline News Organisations & Operators

Virgin Atlantic is boosting its long-haul flying from Manchester this summer with additional services to Orlando, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the airline’s home in the North.  Following Aer Lingus’ decision to withdraw its long-haul flying from Manchester, Virgin Atlantic is increasing Manchester to Orlando capacity by 12% in peak Summer 2026 with additional flights. These changes ensure customers across the North of England can continue to benefit from direct, long-haul connectivity and will be on sale from Tuesday 3 February.

BTN exclusive Interview with Adam Tuttle, Co-Founder and CEO of Yipy

BTN exclusive Interview with Adam Tuttle, Co-Founder and CEO of Yipy

30 January 2026 Focus

The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), the global collection of more than 400 independent luxury hotels across 80 countries, has selected Yipy, creator of the industry’s first Hospitality Standards Management System, as a preferred provider through its Leading Strategic Sourcing (LSS) program.

OTA bookings hit surge, direct sales slide across global experiences industry

OTA bookings hit surge, direct sales slide across global experiences industry

30 January 2026 Press Release Travel Technology News Organisations & Operators

Arival, the global research authority for the tours, activities, attractions and experiences sector, today released its Global Operator Landscape 4th Edition: The State of Experiences, the most comprehensive study of the in‑destination experiences industry.  Based on more than 5,000 qualified operator responses worldwide, the report shows an industry that has surpassed pre‑pandemic performance but is now navigating a new era of digital disruption, shifting traveler behavior, and operational pressure.

Valpas expands to Iceland as Black Sand Hotel becomes the first guaranteed bedbug safe hotel in the

Valpas expands to Iceland as Black Sand Hotel becomes the first guaranteed bedbug safe hotel in the

Black Sand Hotel has become the first hotel to join Valpas’ network, the platform for safe, sustainable and bed bug-free travel in Iceland. With this new addition, Valpas has expanded its global reach to 25 countries, including Belgium, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives Joins the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) Portfolio

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives Joins the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) Portfolio

30 January 2026 Press Release Hotel News Organisations & Operators

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is delighted to announce its official partnership with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. This exciting milestone marks a new chapter for the five-star private island resort as it enhances its global visibility and connects with a wider community of discerning travellers seeking authentic, meaningful luxury experiences.

Web in Travel announces WiT Africa 2026 – set to take place in Cape Town this April

Web in Travel announces WiT Africa 2026 – set to take place in Cape Town this April

Web in Travel (WiT), the leading travel‑technology and innovation platform across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, today announced the return of WiT Africa 2026, taking place on April 9 at Innovation City, Cape Town.  The event marks a milestone year for WiT as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with a powerful theme: “The Next 20.”