Big Fat Airline Wrap
TWO Big Fat Wraps in one day?! Yes, the long weekend has left us dazed and confused as well, although that might be the hangover talking.
Qantas to Host 74th IATA AGM in Sydney
Qantas today welcomed the announcement that the International Air Transport Association’s 2018 Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place in Sydney in June 2018.
One of the most prestigious events on the aviation calendar, the AGM – and the associated World Air Transport Summit – will attract more than 1,000 delegates and is expected to provide a boost to the NSW economy with attendees often choosing to stay and explore the region following the AGM.
The announcement of Sydney as next year’s location and Qantas as host airline was made at the conclusion of IATA’s 2017 AGM in Cancun.
Fiji Airways Implements EAM RFID across Entire Fleet
Fiji Airways has completed installation of over 4,000 ultra high-frequency (UHF) radio frequency identification (RFID) tags throughout its entire fleet of 15 aircraft. One of the first of the Oceanian airlines to utilise RFID, Fiji Airways has taken a keen interest in being an early adopter of customer-centric tech since rebranding in 2013.
Fiji Airways is integrating RFID to improve in-cabin inspections for onboard emergency equipment such as life vests, life rafts, oxygen bottles, fire extinguishers, extension seat belts, earmuffs, flashlights, survival kits as well as oxygen generators across the A330, B737, ATR, and Twin Otter fleet.
To continue with the RFID program, Fiji Airways and EAM RFID Solutions intend to deploy a wider Cyber Physical System (CPS) by tagging other items (including seat covers) and seeking to advance opportunities with additional system integration with Engineering maintenance system AMOS.
Scandinavian Airlines: Baggage or No Baggage?
Many European carriers have introduced airfare products that do not include checked baggage. On SAS this product is called SAS GO LIGHT and it corresponds to a fare basis ending in “LIGHT”. Easy to recognise and bookable by using the “Best Buy” entry in your GDS.
However in most instances Australian travellers to Europe need a checked baggage allowance in additional to their hand luggage. To select SAS GO fares which include the standard 1PC (23kg) baggage allowance, you must use a fare display entry which gives you ALL fare options, not just the lowest ‘Best Buy” fare.
Amadeus, Sabre and Galileo have different entries, therefore please refer to your clue cards or contact your GDS support team for guidance.
For accidental SAS GO LIGHT fare tickets requiring baggage, this can be booked in the ancillary tool in your GDS by choosing XBAG and free text: PREPAID.
Take note that it is cheaper to book a SAS GO fare which includes 1PC checked baggage, than booking a SAS GO LIGHT fare + PREPAID XBAG.
Air Astana Launch Services from Astana to New Delhi
Air Astana will launch direct flights from Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan to New Delhi, the capital of India on 2nd July 2017. The service will be operated three times a week using Airbus A320 and Embraer 190 aircraft. Air Astana continues to operate daily flights between Almaty and New Delhi, with the service having been inaugurated on 4th September 2004.
Kazakhstan’s award-winning carrier offers travellers from New Delhi a wide range of convenient flight connections in Astana, with services to international destinations including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Istanbul, Kiev, Baku and Tbilisi, as well as to many cities across Kazakhstan. Together with other Air Astana international passengers travelling through Astana between 1st June and 10th September 2017, those using the new services to and from New Delhi will be entitled to free admission tickets for EXPO 2017 Astana – Future Energy.
On Mondays and Thursdays, the flight (KC 241) will depart Astana at 07.20 and arrive in New Delhi at 10:55, with the return flight (КС 242) departing New Delhi at 12.00 and arriving in Astana at 17.00 local time. On Sundays, flight (KC 249) flight will depart Astana at 20.35 and arrive in New Delhi at 00.10 (+1), with the return flight (КС 250) departing New Delhi at 01.10 and arriving in Astana at 06.10 local time.
Economy class return fares start at US$316 including tax, with Business Class return fares starting at US$1,873 including all taxes.
Lufthansa Group brings direct payment option to the check-in counter and gate with card terminals
From June 2017 onwards, customers will be able to pay with Amadeus Airport Pay for ancillary services while checking in. This new service, developed by Amadeus and In-genico, will subsequently be available at more than 170 airports around the world. Customers will be able to pay for ancillary services, such as excess baggage, with chip-cards (credit/debit cards), girocard payments and compatible digital wallets.
Additionally, airline staff are able to initiate compensation payments with these terminals, for instance in case a passenger voluntary steps back from an overbooked flight.
The standard used by the Amadeus Airport Pay solution is also fully compatible with PCI-DSS, a series of security standards defined by the payment card industry. By using a PIN method for the cards, fraud is prevented during the payment process itself.
With Amadeus Airport Pay airlines and ground handlers can now reach any passenger with an EMV chip card or an EMV-compliant mobile wallet in any airport worldwide, regardless of the check-in infrastructure; this means airlines worldwide can deploy quickly. As a result, airlines can convert more ancillary sales by offering travellers a fast and secure payment method that overcomes the inconveniences generally faced by travellers nowadays at airports.
Sri Lanka one Step Closer to Being Asia’s New Travel Hot Spot for Australians
Verdant rainforests, palm-fringed beaches, UNESCO temples and an intriguing culture, Sri Lanka is an inspiring destination that will soon be more accessible than ever for Australians with SriLankan Airlines starting to operate daily non-stop flights from Melbourne to Colombo from 29th October this year.
The new flights will tap into growing interest of Australians to visit the destination, which has seen a strong increase in visitation numbers from Australia of over 30% over the last three years.*
The new A330-200 aircraft will take Victorians directly to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital and largest city, in just 11 hours.
According to Chad Carey, co-founder of Asia Travel Specialist GetAboutAsia, Sri Lanka’s destination diversity is one of the main draws luring Australians.
“From stunning scenery, incredible beaches, tea stations and an intriguing culture that goes back thousands of years, Sri Lanka has everything Australians love in a holiday with a vibe that perfectly combines the dramatic India and the laid-back Bali attitude” Mr Carey said.
Introducing United Airlines’ New Transcontinental Service
Premium transcontinental business class offers many of the same amenities found on international routes such as flat-bed seats and enhanced food and amenities Routes will now feature an industry-leading complimentary hot meal and alcoholic beverages for customers seated in Economy Plus
Boston-San Francisco added as premium transcontinental route in addition to New York/Newark-Los Angeles and New York/Newark-San Francisco
CHICAGO, June 8, 2017 – United Airlines (UAL) announced today updates to its transcontinental service beginning July 1 including: adding Boston–San Francisco to its premium transcontinental route network, upgrading meal service and amenities for customers seated in business class and adding complimentary hot meal and beverage service for customers seated in Economy Plus.
“We routinely see high demand for travel between our coasts and we want to provide the same level of quality typically reserved for international routes – this includes all flat-bed seating in business class as well as an industry-leading dining experience for customers in Economy Plus,” United’s vice president of marketing, Mark Krolick said.
“Our updated premium transcontinental service not only connects travelers between four of the nation’s largest markets, it connects customers to the best food, drinks and amenities from these world-class cities.”
These flights are available now for booking.
Oman Air Business Class services
Oman services to/ from Australia are via the Asian hubs of KUL & BKK and use MH, TG as their interline partners in their Business Class fare structures.
With x2 daily into KUL and x3 daily into BKK, Oman Services offer competitive business fares across our network including the Middle East and 7 EU destinations: LON, MAN, PAR, MIL, FRA, MUC & ZRH.
Oman Air’s new B787 Business Class features 8 seats 2-2-2 configuration with every direct aisle access for every seat, generous 180 degrees fully lie flat bed seats with 203cm seat pitch and 58cm seat width, electronically controlled backrest, seat bottom, leg rest and seat depth, beverage and handset compartment, touchscreen IFE and handset, and 2 USB plugs and PC power outlet in every seat.
A full guide to Business Class air fares can be found here.
MW Tours Fam trip to Korea
MW Tours and China Southern Airlines with agents from around Australia have just returned from a trip to Korea including Seoul and Pusan. The tour included highlights such as a Bibap Show, Insadong Antique Market, Haesinsa Temple and Everland Theme Park. The photo shows the fam group “getting their Sexy Korea on” in traditional costume on after their Kimchi Cooking class.
In the back row we have Ann Bridgewater – Ballarat Cruise and Travel, Vic Jo Meredith – MTA, Qld Mark O’Neill – The Adventure Specialist, NSW Karen Robinson – Travel View, NSW David Armstrong – Bicton Travel, WA Kylie Duncan-Tiver – MTA, SA Sarah Butler – Travel Directors. WA
In front row there is Toni Perrin – Travel Managers – Qld, Renee Brown – Thor Travel, SA, Kay Russell – MW Tours SA, WA & NT Sales Manager Sally Laing – China Southern Airlines NSW Erica Torres Garcia -, iTalk Brighton, Vic. Laying in front is Yumi, the travel director from MW Tours in Korea.
AirAsia Female Pilots Take Naelofar Hijab to the Skies
AirAsia and leading hijab brand Naelofar Hijab has unveiled a special collaboration with an exclusively designed hijab for the airline’s female pilots. Beginning June 2017, muslim female pilots from AirAsia and AirAsia X will don the white Naelofar Hijab that is specifically tailored to meet their workday needs.
“This is the first time ever for AirAsia to collaborate with a designer to produce hijab wear for our female pilots. We are happy to work with Naelofar Hijab to create a piece that complements our female pilots’ look while providing enhanced comfort as they perform their duty. We are currently looking into revamping hijab designs for our ground staff as well,” Regional Head of Branding for AirAsia, Rudy Khaw said.
AirAsia female pilots were involved throughout the design process where they worked closely with Naelofar Hijab designers to create a functional, yet comfortable headscarf suitable for their day-to-day operations. Before being rolled out, prototypes undergo multiple wear testing by members of the airline’s pilots. Using fabric materials with enhancement properties, the new hijab allows great stretch and recovery for easy movement along with adornment of the signature Naelofar Hijab symbol in Swarovski crystals for a finishing touch.
South African Airways update their current specials to Africa
Economy Saver: The sale is valid for departures effective immediately to 20 June & 15 July – 13 September & 05 October – 25 November 2017 & 14 January – 20 March 2018, and includes generous baggage allowance of 2 pieces of 23k. Get in quick as the sale ends 21 June 2017. Check out the fares here.
Their Business class specials have been extended to 1 July. Sydney levels have also dropped and are valid for departures effective immediately to 31 August 2017. It includes generous baggage allowance of 2 pieces of 32kg each. For business class airfares check them out here.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
air astana airasia fiji airways international air transport association lufthansa MW Tours Oman Air qantas Scan south african airways SriLankan AirlinesLatest News
Voyages celebrates 40 years at Uluru with two new immersive experiences
No plans for celebrating your 40th this year? Here's a hot tip from us.
SkyDeck: The inflight entertainment you could never have imagined
Forget those external cameras you can live stream while in the air... With SkyDeck you can check it out for yourself.
Second Boeing whistleblower dies of ‘mystery infection’
Joshua Dean died from a fast-growing mystery infection on Tuesday.
Aussie winners of American Airlines ‘Sell Your Way to the USA’ announced
Show me the money! For the winners, Sell Your Way to the USA was worth getting involved in.
ANZCRO celebrates 30th with special edition of iconic New Zealand Book
Choice bro! ANZCRO celebrates its 30th with a special edition of its iconic New Zealand Book. Chur!
Room to move at Cairns Harbourside Hotel with ‘spacious’ new family package
Moody teens can eat two-minute noodles while younger brothers and sisters get to eat free with mum and dad. Win, win!
A&K unveils lavish around the world wildlife adventure in private jet
The kind of holiday that if you need to ask the cost, you probably can't afford it.
Flight Centre and Reforest hit one million trees target early
Nice one Flight Centre, we think you've earned an early Friday knockoff.
New cruise options spearhead stacked APT 2025 program
Just in case you thought you were running out of cruise itineraries, APT's here with a fresh batch.
Travel Weekly announces a new team to helm Australia’s No.1 travel trade title
Some shameless self-promotion from us, but we thought you needed to know who's bringing you the news.
IHG reveals plans for Brisbane’s first Kimpton in 2028
Just another reason to book that trip to Brisvegas. But don't jump the gun, it's not open until 2028.
Cruiseabout’s first store in five years opens in Perth
Perth gets a break from being behind the rest of the country with the addition of the first Cruiseabout store.
ATAS complaints process acknowledges non-economic loss
A High Court case win over 'disappointment and distress' on a cruise gone wrong prompts ATIA complaints change.
Cunard previews new Queen Anne
Yep, this one does exactly what it says on the tin.
Bunnik Tours unveils latest expansion to Iceland
Just as the Icelandic vikings did many years ago, Bunnik is expanding into new territories.
Australia’s first glamping retreat turns 25
25th anniversary gifts usually come in silver. Ours comes in the way of a news story.
Embrace the journey: Traversing the world with the Shokz OpenRun
If you’ve been on the wrong side of a final call in the airport, or missed the stop on rail journey, it might be time to invest in a pair of Shokz OpenRun headphones. Originally marketed as headphones for fitness fanatics, runners or cyclists with a keen to steer clear of a prang with a car, […]
Tourism Western Australia MD Carolyn Turnbull departs
Turnbull hints her new role will see her staying in the tourism and hospitality industry and who can blame her?
DriveAway launches Brit-Euro Blitz campaign
If agents can put the foot down quick enough and get involved, there are some great prizes to be won.
Fly and Stay Free with the Great Southern
Unlike those dodgy scam phone calls you're getting more and more of, there's no strings attached to this deal.
Sober travel and TikTok guide Australian Gen Z trips
Can you call it a sober holiday if you enjoy a few glasses of red on the flight? We think yes.
Travel DAZE Exec Agenda REVEALED: top execs to speak on airline competition
As the industry reels from Bonza's implosion, it is more important than ever to ask the big questions.
TTC: Deals are driving up demand for September trips
The latest market research from TTC Tour Brands shows interest in international leisure travel remains high for 2024, with 77 per cent of Australians over 18 still planning trips this year. Notably, 28 per cent of those travellers are eyeing September for their journeys. Europe continues to be the most popular destination, with 68 per […]
Skroo says Rex will need deep pockets to fill lost Bonza slots
The door is open for Rex, and anyone else who wants to launch a regional Aussie airline...
Sno’n’Ski Holidays unveils 2025 mega famil to Colorado!
Let the games begin - this is certainly not a famil that you will want to miss!
Walk Japan launches Kyoto: Mountains to the sea walking tour
There are two types of people, one who enjoys walking on holiday and another who enjoys sipping Mojitos by the pool.
Which destination had a 48% boost in bookings following 10 MILLION TikTok views?
Here's a clue: it's not Malabar Beach.
Asher Telford appointed General Manager of SeaLink Whitsundays
Telford has plenty of reasons to smile after SeaLink doubles down and makes him GM after buying his tourism operation.
Qantas ‘working urgently’ to fix app data leak
Qantas is looking into customer reports that passengers have this morning been able to access other passengers’ personal information on the airlines app. X user Lachlan posted that he was able log into different accounts every time he opened the app. My @Qantas app logs me in to a different person each time I open […]
Hilton Expands Presence in North Queensland with the signing of Hilton Garden Inn Townsville
Heading to a North Queensland Cowboys clash? Hilton Garden Inn Townsville is set to open, but not until 2026.
Rail Europe ANZ: making dream journeys come true
Rail Europe's running a lottery! You're not going to win millions, but you might just snag a free holiday.
UPDATE: Bonza hole deepens as administrators investigate financial affairs
Administrators dig deeper as struggling airline unlikely to be revived.
Revamped Wailoaloa Beach hotel opens as Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa
Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa is open and ready for bookings after the first phase of a multi-million-dollar transformation. Part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ premium collection, the transformation has seen the completion of 106 guestrooms showcasing contemporary interiors reflective of the premium Crowne Plaza brand and is a first for the […]
Nielsen Data reveals brands spending big to attract Aussie tourists
Trip A Deal, Virgin and Ignite Travel walk into a bar, blow their cash on travel advertising instead of the pokies.
Kamalaya Koh Samui clinches clutch of wellness awards
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa has so far clinched five prestigious awards in 2024, including being inducted into the ‘Hall of Fame’ at the World Spa & Wellness Awards in London. Founders of the Koh Samui sanctuary and spa John and Karina Stewart expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the awards. “We are profoundly honoured […]
Jetstar offers 200,000 return for free flights to celebrate 20th anniversary
Jetstar hits 20 and everyone else gets the presents with free return flights to domestic and international destinations.