More stories

  • in

    ‘A Clear Runway of Opportunity’: Inside Sandals’ 2024 Global Sales Conference

    As the calendar flips to a new year, Unique Vacations, Inc. (UVI) – an affiliate of the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts – inaugurates 2024 as “The Year of More” at an energizing Global Sales Conference designed to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the travel advisor community and reinforce its crucial role within the ecosystem of tourism for the Caribbean at large.The first of its kind since 2019, the event was held between Sandals Dunn’s River and Sandals Ochi, and united esteemed Caribbean government officials, Sandals Resorts executives, and over 200 members of Unique Vacations global sales force for a weekend of reflection, strategic alignment, and gathering momentum in the direction of selling the coveted Caribbean.
    Following an evening of welcome cocktails and dinner at Sandals Dunn’s River, a future-focused business session unfolded at Sandals Ochi on January 5th with a series of inspiring speeches from notable figures, including The Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, and The Hon. Carlos James, Minister of Tourism for Saint Vincent and The Grenadines. They were joined by UVI and Sandals Resorts International (SRI) executive leadership, including SRI Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, who addressed a captivated audience, reflecting on the brands’ foundation and its continued commitment to supporting travel advisors while sharing insights and strategic directions for the future.
    “We sit here today on 42 years of legacy – 42 years of a clear runway of opportunity to be the company that is the game changer to rewrite the future history books of what Caribbean tourism is going to look like, and that is what Sandals 2.0 reflects and represents,” said Stewart. “We are committed every day to you and your craft – to doing things that are monumentally bigger than Sandals. This is an ecosystem of Caribbean tourism that only triumphs if we function together as one.”
    Tourism Ministers Join Forces to Promote the Caribbean
    In his address to the sales force, The Hon. Edmund Bartlett expressed his appreciation for a year of record-breaking travel in Jamaica – four million visitor arrivals in a single year (2023) and 10 consecutive quarters of economic growth, reducing the island’s debt to GDP from 149% to 74% – manifesting “more visitors, more revenue and more love in 2024.”ADVERTISEMENT“What you are doing for Jamaica means additional exposure and opportunities for our destination, which translates in effect to more arrivals and more earnings. It means more business, more jobs, and more growth,” said The Hon. Edmund Bartlett, adding that innovation and collaboration will be the driving force of ongoing success in 2024 and beyond. “Our way forward in the tourism industry is to remove this sense of competition that has characterized our process over time, and replace it with a nice new word called co-petition. We must now represent a future of co-peting with each rather than competing with each other.”
    In true Caribbean comradeship, The Hon. Carlos James, Minister of Tourism for Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, traveled to Ocho Rios to attend the conference, where much of the buzz and focus was on Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, opening on March 27th. Bringing forward the unique ‘soul’ of his island home and its authentic alignment with Sandals, The Hon. Carlos James reiterated a joint commitment to build out a tourism sector that is ‘unique and amazing’ – teasing new direct airlift coming soon – and that leverages space and opportunities for people to discover an authentic Caribbean island that is not commercialized, while finding avenues to support and empower local communities.
    “The thought process, engineering ingenuity, care, love, finesse, and attention to detail that went into creating [Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines] is something we all will enjoy,“ said The Hon. Carlos James. “Sandals is a perfect match for our island – maintaining the authentic richness of the Caribbean vibe, food, entertainment, and cultural heritage. We’re preserving all of that and sharing it with guests.”
    More in 2024 – and Beyond
    Looking ahead and building off the theme of ‘more in 2024’, Stewart highlighted upcoming innovations across the Sandals and Beaches brands, honing in on the design, service, and accommodation innovations across the portfolio, including Sandals Royal Curaçao – home to 10 new Rondoval villas debuting February 1 – and the upcoming Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, promising an experience immersed in mother nature, “raw and uncut,” with more features, amenities, and Sandals Firsts than anywhere else.
    “Everything that we are doing as hoteliers is in the relentless pursuit of finding the best of the best in this part of the world,” said Stewart. “No place on God’s planet is more interesting, more enticing, more relaxing, more soulful, or more charming than this archipelago. It is our job, together, to connect the dots to get the travelers of the world to choose us – to choose the Caribbean.”
    A Priceless Partnership
    Gary C. Sadler, Executive Vice President of Sales and Industry Relations at UVI, lauded travel advisors for their unwavering loyalty, recognizing the impact of the region’s most committed sales force.
    “The biggest part of what we have is our travel advisors, and the most profound thing that Unique Vacations can do on behalf of Sandals Resorts is work hand in hand with these trusted colleagues day after day – because whenever the going gets tough, it is always travel advisors who are there to rescue any hotel brand there is in the world.”
    In true Sandals fashion, a dazzling award-show gala brimming with local flair kicked off the night of January 6th, where awards were handed out to valuable sales team members from across global regions. Notable recognitions include Yasmine Davis, who was named BDM of the Year for the United States, and Gail Stephenson, UVI Director of Sales Operations, who was recognized as the Chairman’s Award Winner of 2023. A private event at the Rio Chico villa capped off the Global Sales Conference 2024 with the event coming to a close on Monday, January 8, 2024.

    Older
    Gulf Hotels Group Pioneers a New Dining Experience in Bahrain

    Newer
    Radisson Hotel Group sets new record in 2023, adding the largest number of keys to its portfolio More

  • in

    Gulf Hotels Group Pioneers a New Dining Experience in Bahrain

    Gulf Hotels Group Signs MoU with Solutions Leisure Group
    Gulf Hotels Group, a leading hospitality management company with over 50 years of industry experience, is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with renowned global hospitality and entertainment company, Solutions Leisure Group. This strategic partnership marks an exciting collaboration in introducing innovative food and beverage outlets to the Kingdom of Bahrain.As part of the MoU, Gulf Hotels Group and Solutions Leisure Group are set to launch an all-new league of culinary experiences into the renowned Block 338, situated in the heart of the bustling dining district of Adliya. Conceptualising an entirely new lifestyle destination in the region, set to elevate the hospitality landscape in its entirety, the leading nightlife and hospitality group will develop an all-new destination that captures the trends and vibrance of the neighbourhood, introducing four unique concepts from its award-winning portfolio and newly created concepts that drive interest, offer unique experiences and create moments people live for, from day to night.
    We will be announcing within the course of the next few months the concepts of these multi-branded outlets that will convey a new element of culinary excellence and entertainment to the local and international community.
    Through this partnership, Gulf Hotels Group aims to expand its food and beverage offerings in the Kingdom with innovative dining concepts that provide guests with an unparalleled experience. The Group is committed to upscaling the restaurant scene in Bahrain by catering to the various needs of local and international visitors.
    Mr. Ahmed Janahi, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Hotels Group, commented: “It gives us great pleasure to be partnering with Solutions Leisure Group, a renowned name in the global hospitality landscape. We believe that this partnership allows us to introduce exciting and innovative dining concepts to Bahrain, enhancing our guests’ experience and meeting the evolving trends and demands of the market. We look forward to a successful partnership that will contribute to the growth and development of the Kingdom’s hospitality sector.”
    Paul Evans, CEO and Co Founder of Solutions Leisure Group added, “Celebrating ten years in the Middle East this year, we are, both, humbled and excited to be stepping into our next decade alongside our first regional Middle Eastern partners, Gulf Hotels Group, to set new benchmarks in hospitality.”ADVERTISEMENTHe continued, “Creating the moments people live for is our heart and soul, and the opportunity to create something so epic and unique in its structure, alongside such a renowned group as the team behind Gulf Hotels Group, is set to take the Bahraini F&B scene to new heights through sensorial, experience-lead destinations and unparalleled social immersions.”
    Gulf Hotels Group is committed to delivering unparalleled gastronomic experiences, exceptional service, and memorable moments to its visitors in Bahrain. This partnership is expected to redefine the culinary landscape and contribute to the Kingdom’s thriving hospitality sector.

    Older
    Airport Handling Expands with Seven-Year License to Operate at Rome Fiumicino Airport

    Newer
    ‘A Clear Runway of Opportunity’: Inside Sandals’ 2024 Global Sales Conference More

  • in

    Airport Handling Expands with Seven-Year License to Operate at Rome Fiumicino Airport

    Airport Handling, a majority-owned subsidiary of leading global air and travel services provider dnata, has been awarded a seven-year ground handling license by Aeroporti di Roma and will establish operations at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). The company is targeting to launch operations in the Italian capital in the second quarter of 2024.
    Airport Handling will provide a range of quality and safe ramp and passenger services to airlines in Rome. It has already committed an investment of over €20 million to purchase new ground support equipment (GSE), including advanced electric vehicles. Having recruited a local senior management team, which is very familiar with the Rome market, Airport Handling is targeting to employ over 1,800 customer-oriented aviation professionals at FCO.
    Airport Handling’s expansion into Rome further strengthens its position as a leading air services provider in Italy. A trusted partner of over 60 airlines, the company’s dedicated teams already handle more than 22 million passengers and 82,000 flights annually at the two Milan airports, Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN).
    Alberto Morosi, CEO of Airport Handling, said: “We are proud to have secured operating license at another leading Italian airport as a result of a highly competitive tender process. Expanding into Rome Fiumicino is a significant milestone that aligns with our growth strategy and underlines our commitment to consistently enhancing our operations.
    “We look forward to working with the airport to deliver high quality and safe services for our airline customers and their passengers travelling to or through Rome. I thank our partners for their continued trust in our services and our team for their hard work and dedication.”ADVERTISEMENTThe majority stakeholder of Airport Handling is dnata, a global player in the combined air services industry, which operates at over 120 airports globally. Besides its ground handling business, dnata also provides catering & retail services at all major Italian airports, including Rome Fiumicino.
    Serving over 300 airline customers, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled more than 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo and uplifted 111.4 million meals in the financial year 2022-23.

    Older
    St. Regis Opens Luxury Resort on Private Island in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea

    Newer
    Gulf Hotels Group Pioneers a New Dining Experience in Bahrain More

  • in

    Discover Canada’s Top 50 Spas of 2023: Grotto Spa Reigns Supreme

    In 2023, Canadians and visitors to Canada avidly pursued relaxation, crisp outdoor air, and rejuvenating hydrotherapy within their spa retreats. Vancouver Island’s Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort topped the charts, securing the prestigious No. 1 position, as revealed by Craig Oliver, the president of Spas of America.
    The Top 50 Canada Spas awards showcases spa and wellness offerings from nine provinces, with Ontario leading with 19 and British Columbia and Quebec with nine each. Alberta had seven, Nova Scotia two, and Manitoba, Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan each had one.
    The Grotto Spa’s recognition coincides with the unveiling of its $2.5 million renovation, introducing an elevated experience with four cedar barrel saunas in an outdoor garden patio. Launching in mid-February, “The Grotto” aims to enhance the guest journey within the spa, offering a multifaceted experience surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The outdoor patio, beside the mineral pool, creates a serene oasis with cedar barrel saunas, outdoor showers, and scenic surroundings, fostering a tranquil sauna garden. Encouraging a two-hour communal journey, The Grotto promotes connections in a social environment while allowing for a personalized wellness experience amidst nature’s healing elements. Inspired by a global quest for optimal spa experiences, it provides a technology-free space for guests to be present and disconnect from digital distractions, as highlighted by Brian Cocks, managing director of Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort.
    Spas of America’s annual Top 50 Canada Spas award offers insights into the most popular spas of the year based on unique page views and consumer choices at www.spasofamerica.com. New for 2023, all spas must also uphold a Google Reviews rating of 4.0 or higher to be considered for inclusion.
    SPAS OF AMERICA’S TOP 50 CANADA SPAS OF 2023Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort, Parksville, British ColumbiaScandinave Spa Blue Mountain, The Blue Mountains, OntarioElora Mill Hotel & Spa, Elora, OntarioVetta Nordic Spa, Oro-Medonte, OntarioSte. Anne’s Spa, Grafton, OntarioThe Spa at White Oaks Resort, Niagara-on-the-Lake, OntarioMysa Nordic Spa & Resort, Saint Peters Bay, Prince Edward IslandThe Pearle Hotel & Spa, Burlington, OntarioMiraj Hammam Spa, Shangri-La Toronto, OntarioThermea Spa Village Whitby, OntarioBoathouse Spa & Baths, Spas of AmericaADVERTISEMENT
    Boathouse Spa, Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Victoria, British ColumbiaManitou Springs Resort & Mineral Spa, Manitou Beach, SaskatchewanBALNEA, spa + réserve thermale, Bromont, QuebecThermea by Norkik Spa Nature, Winnipeg, Manitoba100 Fountain Spa at Pillar and Post, Niagara-on-the-Lake, OntarioSpa Eastman, Eastman, QuebecSensea Nordic Spa, Chester, Nova ScotiaThe L Spa & Wellness Centre, Grande Prairie, AlbertaSpa InterContinental, InterContinental Toronto Centre, OntarioSiberia Station Spa, Lac-Beaufort, QuebecNordik Spa-Nature, Spas of America

    Nordik Spa-Nature, Chelsea, QuebecThe Spa at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, AlbertaSpaTerre, The Josie Hotel, Rossland, British ColumbiaSpa Bolton, Bolton-Est, QuebecSpa Grande Nature, Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa, Timmins, OntarioThe Spa at Four Seasons Whistler Resort, British ColumbiaThe Spa at Langdon Hall, Cambridge, OntarioThe St. Regis Toronto Spa, OntarioMillcroft Spa, The Millcroft Inn & Spa, Alton, OntarioPacific Mist Spa, Kingfisher Oceanside Resort, Royston, British ColumbiaKananaskis Nordic Spa, Mountains, Spas of America

    Kananaskis Nordic Spa, Kananaskis Village, AlbertaSpa myBlend, The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, OntarioLe Nordique Spa Stoneham, Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury, QuebecSecret Garden Spa, Prince of Wales Hotel, Niagara-on-the-Lake, OntarioThe Spa at Manoir du lac William, Saint-Ferdinand, QuebecThe Hydrothermal Spa at Oceanstone Resort, Indian Harbour, Nova ScotiaThe Spa at The Old Mill, Etobicoke, OntarioRosewood Spa, Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, St. John’s, NewfoundlandScandinave Spa Whistler, British ColumbiaSpa Nordic Station, Quebec City, QuebecChristienne Fallsview Spa, Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, Spas of America

    Christienne Fallsview Spa, Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, Niagara Falls, OntarioBanff Upper Hot Springs, AlbertaOne Wellness Spa, Solara Resort, Canmore, AlbertaElmwood Spa, Toronto, OntarioSpa du Manoir Saint-Sauveur, QuebecFairmont Spa Jasper Park Lodge, AlbertaSense, A Rosewood Spa, Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Vancouver, British ColumbiaAncient Cedars Spa at Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, British ColumbiaFairmont Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs, AlbertaWillow Stream Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver, British ColumbiaWillow Stream Spa, Fairmont Pacific Rim, Spas of America

    Source: Based on Google Analytics data from January 1 to December 31, 2023. Rankings are established by assessing the volume of unique page views generated by spa and wellness travel enthusiasts visiting Spas of America annually. To be considered, spas must uphold a Google Reviews rating of 4.0 or higher. The Top 50 Canada Spas of 2023 represents the top 10% of spa listings featured on www.spasofamerica.com.

    Older
    IHG Hotels & Resorts Opens 700th Hotel in Greater China, Marks Milestone with ‘The IHG Greater China

    Newer
    St. Regis Opens Luxury Resort on Private Island in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea More

  • in

    Love Is Literally in the Air, as Hovertravel Launches Romantic Experience for Valentines

    Hovertravel launches romantic experience for Valentines
    For anyone planning something different for Valentine’s, Hovertravel has announced a new, romantic-themed experience for couples for Sunday 18th February.Loretta Lale, Head of Commercial at Hovertravel, explains: “In a first for Hovertravel, we are offering a unique opportunity for couples to celebrate in our hovercraft environment. Research indicates that people who enjoy Valentine’s Day are looking for different events and we have added elements to our classic VIP experience to make a special occasion. This event is part of our all new for 2024 Showcase range of themed experiences.“
    On arrival, guests will be welcomed into a champagne and chocolates reception in the Solent Views suite at Hovertravel’s terminal in Ryde. 
    Offering exceptional views over the hover pad with the ability to watch arriving and departing hovercraft from an elevated balcony, this viewpoint also reveals a sweeping vista of the Solent.
    Following a meet and greet with one of Hovertravel’s pilots, guests will then board a hovercraft for a 20 minute hovercraft experience including 360 degree turns, deflating the skirt and a demonstration of the unique manoeuvrability of a hovercraft accompanied by expert commentary from the pilot.ADVERTISEMENTLoretta adds: “There are also plenty of opportunities to capture loved-up selfies for your memories and obviously we would welcome anyone who might wish to be the first ever wedding proposal on a hovercraft!”
    For more details and bookings please visit: https://www.hovertravel.co.uk/Valentines
    £75 per adult (16+), £35 per child (5-15yrs), £5 infant (0-4yrs)

    Older
    Paradores Hotels Offers 20% Discount on Unforgettable Winter Getaways to Spain

    Newer
    Four Seasons Hotel Houston Unveils Exciting Winter Experiences for 2024 More

  • in

    Paradores Hotels Offers 20% Discount on Unforgettable Winter Getaways to Spain

    This winter, British travellers can enjoy stays in castles, converted monasteries and ski resorts throughout Spain for less. Spain’s state-run historic and cultural hotel network, Paradores, is offering a 20% discount on half board stays of 2 consecutive nights or more, complete with breakfast and a curated lunch or dinner menu.Valid for bookings made between 9-19 January, for stays up until 22 March 2024, this offer includes 20 stunning Paradors to choose from, meaning there’s a holiday to suit every traveller.
    Guests can enjoy coastal serenity at Parador de Nerja, delve into history at Parador de Santiago – Spain’s oldest hotel, embrace nature at Parador Cangas de Onís near the Picos de Europa, or hit the slopes near Parador de Vielha close to the Baqueira Beret Ski Resort, to name but a few hotels included in this promotion.
    The 20 Paradors included are:
    Aiguablava: Catalonia, near GironaAlcalá: Near MadridAlmagro: Castile-La Mancha, near Ciudad RealBaiona: Galicia, near VigoCádiz: Andalusia, in CádizCangas de Onís: Asturias, near OviedoCardona: Catalonia, near BarcelonaCarmona: Andalusia, near SevilleChinchón: Near MadridCuenca: Castile-La Mancha, near CuencaEl Saler: Near ValenciaJaén: Andalusia, in JaénJávea: AlicanteLa Granja: Castile and León, near SegoviaLeón: Castile and León, in LeónNerja: Andalusia, near MálagaPlasencia: Extremadura, near CáceresSantiago: Galicia, in Santiago de CompostelaToledo: Castile-La Mancha, in ToledoVielha: Catalonia, near LleidaTo find out more or book a discounted stay, visit www.paradores.es/en .  Full terms and conditions also available via the website.

    Older
    Experience the Breathtaking Winter Scenery in the Niigata-Tohoku Area

    Newer
    Love Is Literally in the Air, as Hovertravel Launches Romantic Experience for Valentines More

  • in

    Save on holidays and stopovers to Dubai this winter with Emirates

    Emirates has today announced an exciting new offer for travellers planning to visit Dubai this winter. Starting from 12 January, people who have bought flights to Dubai or add a stopover in Dubai of 8 hours or more can enjoy free tickets to two of Dubai’s biggest attractions – the Museum of the Future and Atlantis Aquaventure. The Museum of the Future is the newest jewel in the Dubai skyline where visitors will be transported into the world 50 years from now. Furthermore, customers can cool off on the slides and rides at Atlantis Aquaventure, the world’s largest waterpark.
    This special offer is valid on tickets bought between 12 January to 01 February 2024, for travel between 15 January and 31 March 2024. The offer is available in all cabins and bookings made on emirates.com, Emirates call centre, Emirates ticketing office or via travels agents, and can be redeemed at least 96 hours before travel.
    Experience more of Dubai with Emirates
    From soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, shopping at Dubai Mall, enjoying the views from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa to dining at incredible restaurants, Dubai offers the perfect winter sun holiday. Other Emirates benefits include:
    My Emirates Pass: Take advantage of hundreds more offers in Dubai and the UAE thanks to My Emirates Pass. Available until 31 March 2024, customers can just show their Emirates boarding pass at participating restaurants, spas, activities and more to access exclusive offers and discounts. To see all My Emirates Pass offers, please visit www.emirates.com/myemiratespass.Create your Dubai Experience: Pack more into each visit with Dubai Experience. Customers can browse, create, and book their own customised itineraries including flights, hotel stay, visits to key attractions, and other dining and leisure experiences in Dubai and the UAE.Emirates Skywards Partners: There’s more to enjoy as a member of the airline’s award-winning loyalty programme. Customers can earn Skywards Miles on everyday spends at retail outlets in the UAE with the Skywards Everyday app. Spend Miles on flights and upgrades or get tickets for concerts and sports events through Skywards Exclusives. Learn more about Emirates Skywards here: https://www.emirates.com/english/skywards/.Emirates Holidays/Vacations: Customers can book their holiday to Dubai through Emirates Holidays. All Emirates Holidays include flexible booking options. Whilst for even more peace of mind, Emirates Holidays’ dedicated 24/7 On Holiday Service team will be thereADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    Air Travel Reaches 99% of 2019 Levels as Recovery Continues in November

    Newer
    Finnair Appoints Turkka Kuusisto as New CEO to Lead Next Phase of Growth More

  • in

    Air Travel Reaches 99% of 2019 Levels as Recovery Continues in November

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for November 2023 air travel performance indicating that air travel demand topped 99% of 2019 levels.Total traffic in November 2023 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 29.7% compared to November 2022. Globally, traffic is now at 99.1% of November 2019 levels.
    International traffic rose 26.4% versus November 2022. The Asia-Pacific region continued to report the strongest year-over-year results (+63.8%) with all regions showing improvement compared to the prior year. November 2023 international RPKs reached 94.5% of November 2019 levels.
    Domestic traffic for November 2023 was up 34.8% compared to November 2022. Total November 2023 domestic traffic was 6.7% above the November 2019 level. Growth was particularly strong in China (+272%) as it recovered from the COVID travel restrictions that were still in place a year ago. US domestic travel, benefitting from strong Thanksgiving holidays demand, reached a new high, expanding +9.1% over November 2019.
    “We are moving ever closer to surpassing the 2019 peak year for air travel. Economic headwinds are not deterring people from taking to the skies. International travel remains 5.5% below pre-pandemic levels but that gap is rapidly closing. And domestic markets have been above their pre-pandemic levels continuously since April,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
    ADVERTISEMENTInternational Passenger MarketsAsia-Pacific airlines had a 63.8% rise in November traffic compared to November 2022, which was the strongest year-over-year rate among the regions. Capacity rose 58.0% and the load factor was up 2.9 percentage points to 82.6%.
    European carriers’ November traffic climbed 14.8% versus November 2022. Capacity increased 15.2%, and load factor declined 0.3 percentage points to 83.3%.
    Middle Eastern airlines saw an 18.6% traffic rise in November compared to November 2022. November capacity increased 19.0% versus the year-ago period, and load factor fell 0.2 percentage points to 77.4%.
    North American carriers experienced a 14.3% traffic rise in November versus the 2022 period. Capacity increased 16.3%, and load factor fell 1.4 percentage points to 80.0%.
    Latin American airlines’ November traffic rose 20.0% compared to the same month in 2022. November capacity climbed 17.7% and load factor increased 1.7 percentage points to 84.9%, the highest of any region.
    African airlines had a 22.1% rise in November RPKs versus a year ago. November 2023 capacity was up 29.6% and load factor fell 4.3 percentage points to 69.7%, the lowest among regions.

    The Bottom Line“Aviation’s rapid recovery from COVID demonstrates just how important flying is to people and to businesses. In parallel to aviation’s recovery, governments recognized the urgency of transitioning from jet fuel to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for aviation’s decarbonization. The Third Conference on Aviation Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) in November saw governments agree that we should see 5% carbon savings by 2030 from SAF. This was followed up at COP28 in December where governments agreed that we need a broad transition from fossil fuels to avoid the worst effects of climate change.  Airlines don’t need convincing. They agreed to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and every drop of SAF ever made in that effort has been bought and used. There simply is not enough SAF being produced. So we look to 2024 to be the year when governments follow-up on their own declarations and finally deliver comprehensive policy measures to incentivize the rapid scaling-up of SAF production,” said Walsh.

    Older
    flydubai introduces PressReader on board its fleet

    Newer
    Save on holidays and stopovers to Dubai this winter with Emirates More