News in Brief: Friday November 1
Global air demand climbed 5.5% in September, with Asia Pacific leading the growth, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The region saw demand rise 8.5% while capacity increased 7.1%. Load factors in Asia Pacific rose one percentage point to 78.1%.
"We are seeing a more positive environment for air travel demand, based on rising business confidence, a strong increase in export orders in September, and better performance of key emerging markets like China," IATA director general and chief executive Tony Tyler said.
The outlook indicated a "further acceleration" of growth before the end of the year.
Global capacity in September climbed 5.3% with loads in line with the same month last year.
Adventure operator Geckos has launched its 2014 Asia, China and India brochure as the brand replaces its worldwide program with a more regional focus.
The launch is the first of three regional brochure being produced by Geckos, the Americas and Europe and Africa and the Middle East the other two.
"Our industry partners told us that three regional brochures would be more effective selling tools that the one 'worldwide' brochure, and we listened," general manager Steve Wrie said. "We are introducing three brand new brochures into the market for next year. We're confident that these will highlight the unique product in each region for the Geckos traveller."
Eight new trips have been added to the Asia program, including sailing trips in Burma and Thailand, three tours in China and a Trans-Siberian railway journey through China, Mongolia and Russia.
Finnair has vowed to develop its partnership with agents as the carrier celebrates its 90th anniversary.
Australia and New Zealand country sales manager, Geoff Stone, said it will also continue its strategy to expand into Asia "and provide more daily connections with our Oneworld partners".
The airline carries approximately 25,000 Australians each year.
Coach operator Albatross Tours is offering a discount of $600 on its 19-day 'Magnifico' Spain and Portugal tour for bookings made before December 22.
Tours depart between April 28 and October 6.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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