Eliana Willis

More stories

  • 125 Shares149 Views

    in organisations-operators

    BOC Aviation Announces Order for 40 Additional Boeing 737-8 Jets

    BOC Aviation Limited and Boeing today announced that the airplane lessor is growing its 737 MAX portfolio with an order for 40 additional 737-8 jets. With the order, BOC Aviation is advancing its strategy of purchasing new, fuel-efficient, environmentally sustainable airplanes that are in demand with airline customers.“We are pleased to continue to build on our existing relationship with Boeing, with this 40-aircraft incremental order for the fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The incremental order takes our total 737 MAX 8 orderbook with Boeing to 80 aircraft,” said David Walton, BOC Aviation deputy managing director and chief operating officer. “We look forward to continuing to provide one of the industry’s most technologically advanced aircraft for delivery on lease to our airline customers, and to support their sustainable growth over the balance of this decade.”
    Boeing continues to see strong market demand for the 737 MAX family, with more than 1,500 gross orders since late 2020.
    “We are proud that BOC Aviation continues to invest in the 737-8 with its industry-leading versatility and ability to fly almost any short- and medium-haul market profitably,” said Ryan Weir, vice president of Global Leasing Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to more opportunities to expand our relationship to support BOC Aviation and its customers.”
    The 737-8 is designed to offer more fuel efficiency, reliability and flexibility in the single-aisle market. The airplane can fly 3,500 nautical miles – about 600 miles farther than its predecessor – allowing airlines to profitably serve new and more direct routes for passengers. Compared to the airplanes it replaces, the 737-8 also delivers superior efficiency, using 20% less fuel and significantly reducing CO2 emissions and operating costs.
    As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality, and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.ADVERTISEMENTBOC Aviation is a leading global aircraft operating leasing company with a fleet of 612 aircraft owned, managed and on order. Its owned and managed fleet was leased to 81 airlines in 38 countries and regions worldwide as of 30 September 2022. BOC Aviation is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEx code: 2588) and has its headquarters in Singapore with offices in Dublin, London, New York and Tianjin. For more information, visit www.bocaviation.com.

    Older
    Aer Lingus announces January sale live until 16 January 2023

    Newer
    New York City is world’s priciest New Year’s Eve destination More

  • 150 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Al Hosn Festival Returns in 2023 to Celebrate Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Heritage

    Al Hosn Festival, Abu Dhabi’s annual celebration of the emirate’s cultural heritage, is set to return with a packed ten-day programme taking place from 13 to 22 January at the iconic Al Hosn site. Set across Al Hosn’s historic buildings and outdoor areas, the event will showcase the best of Abu Dhabi’s heritage as well as the breadth of its creativity.
    Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the festival promises an exciting array of activities for visitors of all ages, with cultural performances, film screenings, art installations, craft and design demonstrations, creative workshops, retail pop-ups, and a variety of culinary experiences.
    His Excellency Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Each year, Al Hosn Festival tells the story of Abu Dhabi at its place of origin. A key component of our cultural calendar, the festival celebrates Abu Dhabi’s heritage and craftsmanship and connects them with the contemporary art practices of the emirate. The festival has quickly become a focus of inspiration and exchange for the emirate’s cultural ecosystem, and a key element of DCT Abu Dhabi’s drive to both preserve the emirate’s treasured heritage and support and grow its new generation of artists and creative practitioners.”
    Activations will span the vast Al Hosn site, with Qasr Al Hosn transporting visitors back in time to offer a glimpse of life in Abu Dhabi in decades past. Guests will enjoy live demonstrations of Emirati craftsmanship and artisanal techniques at House of Artisans, where they can also participate in creative workshops and witness competitions highlighting Emirati cultural excellence. Similarly, Cultural Foundation is once again set to offer an engaging and thought-provoking programme of art exhibitions, performances, film screenings, interactive installations and workshops.
    The festival’s Makers Village is set to return, offering unique items created by artists and designers from local and regional concept stores. There will also be a creative culinary experience.ADVERTISEMENTAl Hosn Festival provides a platform for cultural experimentation and exchange in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s ever-evolving urban landscape, while remaining rooted in the emirate’s authentic traditions. The event aligns with the vision and mandate of DCT Abu Dhabi to protect, preserve and promote the emirate’s heritage, showcase Abu Dhabi as a cultural destination and provide a platform for artistic experimentation and public engagement.
    Al Hosn is the original urban block of the city and comprises the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort, the Cultural Foundation, the National Consultative Council building and the House of Artisans. Al Hosn is emblematic of the proud cultural heritage of the UAE, bringing to life the rich fabric of its history, people and traditions and highlighting the city’s future ambition.Full details of the Al Hosn Festival 2023 programme will be announced closer to the event. For more information, please visit www.alhosnfestival.ae

    Older
    The Walt Disney World Railroad Returns

    Newer
    Explore an Enchanting Winter Wonderland This Festive Season in Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah More

  • 75 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    The Walt Disney World Railroad Returns

    Folks, the renowned Walt Disney World Railroad has officially returned, and John and his team would love to welcome you aboard!“The first time cast members brought the Walter Elias train into Main Street Station, guests and cast gathered below to cheer and welcome the trains home,” John muses. “You can see the excitement on kid’s faces as they see the train coming around the corner for the first time and hear its whistle. It’s magical, and an honor to introduce the next generation to the beauty of steam trains, carrying on my family and Walt’s legacy.”
    From a young age, the sound of a train whistle was a familiar staple in cast member John’s life. Both his grandfather and great-grandfather were engineers on the steam trains at the Pittsburgh steel mills. John never imagined he would carry on their, and Walt’s legacy, at the Magic Kingdom Park overseeing the Walt Disney World Railroad’s historic return today.
    Starting at Magic Kingdom in 1995, John’s first role was as a Conductor on the Walt Disney World Railroad. “It was this moment of serendipity,” John explains. “My grandma was so tickled that I was working on the railroad just like my grandfathers. They love to tell the story that when I was born, my grandfather was on the train and blew his whistle nonstop when he found out he was having a grandson.”
    A young 17-year-old at the time, John was incredulous that he was being trusted with such an iconic piece of the park. “You can’t get more Disney than the steam train,” he says. He felt a deep connection with Walt, but also his grandfathers who had both since passed away.
    ADVERTISEMENTNow, 28 years later, John has spent almost the entirety of his Disney career on Main Street, U.S.A. His full-circle journey has brought him to this very moment where he now oversees the operation of the Walt Disney World Railroad! The enormity of bringing these historical 100-year-old trains back to the Magic Kingdom isn’t lost on him. It’s an opportunity to introduce guests to the same feelings of whimsy and childlike wonder that made him fall in love with the park all those years ago.

    Older
    Korean Air receives approval from China on Asiana acquisition

    Newer
    Al Hosn Festival Returns in 2023 to Celebrate Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Heritage More

  • 113 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Korean Air receives approval from China on Asiana acquisition

    The Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM) announced its approval of Korean Air’s business combination with Asiana Airlines on December 26.MOFCOM has demanded that the merged Korean Air-Asiana entity reduce its market share due to competition concerns, to which Korean Air has submitted remedies proposing to transfer slots to any new airlines wishing to start air services on nine routes where both Korean Air and Asiana Airlines operate. Five of the nine routes have been proposed by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) earlier this year and an additional four routes have been advised by MOFCOM.
    Korean Air expects MOFCOM’s approval of the business combination to play a positive role in the review process of the remaining competition authorities.
    Currently, Korean Air is still waiting for business combination approvals from the U.S., E.U. and Japan, countries where reporting is mandatory, as well as the final approval from the U.K., where reporting is arbitrary. The U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has accepted remedies submitted by Korean Air, but will gather opinions from the market before giving their official approval. Korean Air will continue to cooperate closely with the remaining competition authorities to ensure the review process is completed as soon as possible.
    The airline submitted business combination reports to the nine countries that require reporting on January 14, 2021. Out of these nine countries, Korean Air has received approval from China, Korea, Turkey, Taiwan and Vietnam. The Thailand Competition Commission announced that submission of a business combination report was not necessary.
    From countries where reporting is arbitrary, Korean Air has received clearance from Singapore, Malaysia and Australia. The Philippines has confirmed that the business combination report was not required.ADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    Southwest Airlines Recovering from Operational Challenges

    Newer
    The Walt Disney World Railroad Returns More

  • 88 Shares159 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Boulevard World Contributes to Saudi Vision 2030

    Riyadh Season, a pivotal step in achieving Saudi Vision 2030, seeks to attract more tourists and boost tourism growth in Saudi Arabia through various cultural and entertainment experiences and diverse cultural contents.Boulevard World was officially launched on November 21st as part of the Riyadh Season 2022, taking visitors on a journey around the world by presenting diverse cultures from the US, France, Greece, India, China, Spain, Japan, Morocco, Mexico, and Italy.Boulevard World collaborated with Unilumin Group, a Chinese high-tech company, to draw tourists from all over the world and create novel entertainment experiences they have never had. With a large number of Metasight LED displays supported by software integration and control technologies, Boulevard World showcased artistic design and creative content to the audience and created an immersive experience space filled with modern science and technologies. Boulevard World has thus become another world-class entertainment landmark.
    The huge spherical screen created by Unilumin will catch tourists’ eyes immediately when they enter Boulevard World. As an innovative product by Unilumin, the spherical screen has broken the Guinness World Records and become a new city landmark in Saudi Arabia. It also represents the strong connections across the global village advocated by Boulevard World. In addition, the largest LED ceiling screen in the Middle East and the first one in Saudi Arabia, together with dozens of outdoor ultra-high-definition (UHD) large screens, allows Boulevard World to present diverse cultures and history to the visitors.
    Riyadh Season started cooperation with Unilumin back in 2021. Using Unilumin’s LED displays and Metasight solutions, Riyadh Season has served over 15 million tourists worldwide and has driven the region’s tourism development. The professionalism of Unilumin throughout the project has left a deep impression on the clients in the Middle East.

    Older
    ABTA Members’ customers travel with confidence in latest campaign

    Newer
    Fifth Arabic Arts Festival held in E China’s Jingdezhen More

  • 113 Shares119 Views

    in organisations-operators

    ABTA Members’ customers travel with confidence in latest campaign

    ABTA has launched the second phase of its annual flagship Travel with confidence campaign with a customer-focused video to be promoted through social media advertising. The campaign launches today,  Boxing Day, to coincide with the start of the peak holiday booking season and to promote and support Members during the busy period.The two-minute video shares testimonials from loyal customers talking about what holidays mean for them, and the various reasons why they book with an ABTA member.  The video reinforces the reassurance and peace of mind that comes with booking through a trustworthy and reputable company.  Customers featured include Naomi, a Virgin Atlantic Holidays customer, who says:
    “Holidays are very important as they provide that much needed time away from work, the chance to explore new cultures, and to spend quality time with loved ones. 
    “Total confidence in an ABTA registered Member is 100% peace of mind which makes for a perfect holiday.”
    The feel-good video drives home the importance people place on their holidays, with customers listing the time away from work, the chance to explore new cultures, the opportunity to spend time with loved ones, and being good for mental health as the main benefits of going away.  The initial phase of the campaign launched in early December with radio advertising on Heart Digital and reiterated the importance customers place on their holidays. 
    The video will be cut to different lengths for Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Reddit and will run throughout January.  The campaign will conclude at the end of January with a consumer competition. ADVERTISEMENTGraeme Buck, ABTA Director of Communications said:
    “This next phase of our Travel with confidence campaign is designed, just like the radio ads we are still airing, to help drive business for our Members through the peak booking period. 
    “It was great to see so many ABTA Members’ customers submitting content for the video and sharing the true excitement of booking a holiday. These real views from real people make this year’s Travel with confidence campaign heart-warming, relatable and effective.”
    For more information about the campaign, please visit www.abta.com/travelwithconfidence

    Older
    Traveling Across Spain Will Be Easier Than Ever With The New High-Speed Trains More

  • 113 Shares139 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Kempinski Strengthens its Presence in Turkey with Nef Partnership

    As demand for branded luxury real estate continues to grow worldwide, Kempinski Group has signed management agreements for two new luxury residential and hospitality projects in Turkey. Developed by Turkish real estate pioneer Nef, the projects in Sapanca and Gölköy Bodrum promise ultra-luxury living with a hybrid residential and hospitality offering that provides bespoke homeowners with all the services of a luxury resort.
    “Kempinski has been an active player in the development of Turkey’s hospitality landscape since the opening of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul 32 years ago,” says Bernold Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer of Kempinski Group and Chairman of the Management Board of Kempinski AG. “These prestigious new projects reflect the increasing appetite from owners and investors for branded residences managed by well-established operators in the luxury space. We are humbled to have been selected by one of Turkey’s foremost luxury developers to manage these extraordinary properties.”
    Erden Timur, Chairman of the Board of Nef, adds: “At this point, we continue our investments in cooperation with prestigious local brands in America, London, Dubai, Kazakhstan and Germany. Today, we are delighted to announce our cooperation with Kempinski, the world’s oldest luxury hotel company.”
    Nestled among 19 acres of pine and olive tree-covered hillside overlooking the deep blue waters of the Aegean, Kempinski Residences Nef Reserve Gölköy Bodrum will be home to 106 private villas when it opens in 2026. Ranging from two to six bedrooms with spacious gardens, pools, verandas and indoor-outdoor living spaces, the villas feature large glass windows and open-plan interiors that blur the lines between inside and out, affording spectacular views of Demirbükü Bay for discerning owners and residents. In addition, a luxury boutique hotel will allow guests to enjoy the exclusive facilities of the resort.
    Turkish architect Boran Ekinci has adopted a design aesthetic that complements the forest setting, using wood, stone and other natural materials to create homes that blend into the landscape. Colours and textures will echo the surroundings: myriad greens in shades of olive, thyme and sage; vibrant blues that reflect sea and sky; and earthy neutral tones. Dotted across terrain thoughtfully sculpted by well-known landscape architects, the villas merge into the natural contours of the land, connected by a network of low-impact roads and trails accessed by electric buggies.ADVERTISEMENT
    Beyond their bespoke homes, owners have a raft of amenities on the doorstep, including an Italian restaurant, yoga and pilates decks, massage cabanas, outdoor swimming pool and separate kids’ pool, and a 270-metre private beach, plus fitness facilities and kids’ playground. Three jetties provide space to moor private craft, while on-demand yacht charters can whisk residents to the luxury shopping and nightlife of Yalikavak Marina, 20 minutes along the coast. Owners will also benefit from 24/7 concierge services, security, gardening and maintenance, as well as optional extras including private chefs, wellness therapists and transfers to Bodrum international airport 40 minutes away.
    US $130 million Kempinski Residences Sapanca will open its doors in 2026
    Developed with an investment of US $130 million, Kempinski Hotel & Residences Sapanca, Türkiye will bring luxury living to the green surrounds of Sapanca Lake, 140 kilometres from Istanbul. Designed for discerning owners that value outdoor space, natural scenery and easy access to Istanbul, the 200 hotel rooms and suites as well as the 50 villas and 138 townhouse apartments are surrounded by ponds, streams and lush woodland ribboned with walking, running and cycling trails. Various restaurants and bars, an exquisite spa as well as fitness facilities cater to the highest demands of guests.
    “Sapanca is one of the regions closest to Istanbul with the highest premium potential. The combination of natural setting, proximity to Istanbul, Nef architectural approach and Kempinski services bestow the project with incredible value,” says Erden Timur. “We planned the villas in five different styles and worked meticulously on architectural details, including large verandas and terraces. We took care to design a luxurious living space seen in very few projects, with high ceilings and integrated kitchen design. Here residents will be able to experience the four seasons intertwined with nature. We are planning the first deliveries in 2026.”

    In addition to a lakeside restaurant, owners at Kempinski Hotel & Residences Sapanca, Türkiye will have access to a community market square with shops selling locally grown produce, a hybrid power boat for excursions on the lake and three piers for fishing and mooring. The project will also include a fitness centre with hammam and sauna, mini football and basketball courts, and outdoor yoga and BBQ areas. Other services include private chefs and personal trainers, 24/7 concierge, airport transfers and packing, gardening and maintenance services.
    “These projects reflect the evolving lifestyles of High-Net-Worth investors and growing demand for homes that provide access to outdoor spaces and natural environments as well as personalised luxury lifestyle services,” says Bernold Schroeder. “Like our other recently announced Residences in Çeşme, Istanbul and Dubai, we are targeting a new breed of discerning owners for whom quality of life and family time is paramount.”
    Complementing the recently announced Kempinski residences in Istanbul and Çeşme, the two new projects make Turkey the fastest-growing destination in the Kempinski portfolio. Kempinski currently manages luxury hotel and residence properties in Istanbul, Bodrum and Belek, as well as three standalone Residences in Istanbul.

    Older
    WTTC reveals APAC’s Travel & Tourism Sector’s Climate Footprint

    Newer
    RIU rounds out the year of its 25th anniversary in Mexico by unveiling the newly renovated Riu Santa More

  • 113 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    WTTC reveals APAC’s Travel & Tourism Sector’s Climate Footprint

    The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center have unveiled revolutionary new data detailing the climate footprint of the Travel & Tourism sector in the Asia Pacific region (APAC).According to the data, between 2010 and 2019, the APAC Travel & Tourism sector decoupled its economic growth from its greenhouse gas emissions.
    The new data for the region reveals the total contribution to APAC’s GDP grew on average 7.3% annually, whilst greenhouse gas emissions increased by just 4% during the same period.
    The data also shows how the sector’s emissions intensity continues to decrease.
    In 2010, for every $1 USD of the region’s Travel & Tourism GDP, the sector emitted 0.94kg of greenhouse gas emissions.
    But in 2019, when Travel & Tourism was at its peak, this figure had dropped by more than 26% to 0.69kg, demonstrating the progress of changes implemented by governments and business leaders across the Asia-Pacific region to create a more sustainable sector.ADVERTISEMENTThe new data shows that in 2019 the sector was responsible for an average of just 10.3% of total greenhouse gas emissions in the APAC region.
    For the first time ever, this ground-breaking research can accurately report and track the impact industries within the sector have on the environment.
    This world first research which covers 185 countries across all regions and will be updated each year with the latest figures.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are now able to give governments across the Asia-Pacific region the insights they need to make significant steps towards the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
    “The Travel & Tourism sector in the region has decoupled its economic growth from its greenhouse gas emissions and reduced its emissions intensity by an incredible 26%. But while this shows progress, a lot more needs to be done.
    “To reach our goals and ambitions, we must make bigger and bolder steps to reduce our absolute emissions.
    “Government support will be crucial in accelerating the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuels which will have a significant impact on our footprint, as well as bringing in more renewable energy to our national grids.”
    The global findings were launched at the global tourism body’s 22nd Global Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in November this year.
    This research was made possible thanks to the partnership between WTTC and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center. Under the Saudi green Initiative, more than 60 initiatives have been launched in the past year, representing more than $186BN USD of investment in the green economy.

    Older
    North American Travel & Tourism Sector’s Climate Footprint Revealed

    Newer
    Kempinski Strengthens its Presence in Turkey with Nef Partnership More