10 APRIL 2016 ISSUE 35
12 SHORT BREAK
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MOSCOW
MARRIOTT TO AMPLIFY EUROPEAN PRESENCE
16 AUSTRIAN AIRLINES TO FLY TO HONG KONG
09 Technology 15 Airports 23 Travel Channels
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
RYANAIR CONTINUES STRONG PERFORMANCE
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Pauline Shahabian CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Inna Armeanu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
Ryanair handled 7.4 million passengers in February, marking a 28 percent year-on-year increase.
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olling annual traffic grew 17 percent to 104.6 million customers and load factor rose four percentage points to reach 93 percent. Kenny Jacobs, chief marketing officer, Ryanair, explained that the record monthly numbers and load factors are due to the carrier’s lower fares, stronger forward booking and the success of its customer experience agenda. “Ryanair customers continue to enjoy more service enhancements, as we continue [the second year] of our [Always Getting Better] programme, which includes our new website, new app, new cabin interiors, new crew uniform and improved in-flight menus,” he added.
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AEROFLOT AMONG EUROPE’S BEST
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Aeroflot proved to be the second most profitable among legacy European airline groups in 2015, with an operating margin of 10.6 percent on an operating profit of RUB44.1 billion (EUR565 million).
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n addition, in 2015, the company’s flagship carrier, Aeroflot was Europe’s fifth largest in terms of revenue passenger kilometres which increased 10.4 percent over 2014, double the continent’s average of 5.1 percent. The performance is hailed to be the result of the group’s multi-brand strategy, reputation for safety and customer service excellence, as well as the retreat of international and domestic competition.
10 APRIL 2016
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NEWS
Europe Attracts Long-Haul Travellers Long distance travels into Europe grew 3.1 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2015, according to Air Travellers’ Traffic Barometer produced by European Cities Marketing and ForwardKeys.
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isitor numbers from North America, as well as Asia and Oceania rose 3.5 percent and 6.9 percent, respectively. Crafting a standard profile for these trips to the continent, the study revealed that stays between six and 13 nights are growing faster, but visits up to one week still represented 55 percent of the total during the period under study. Furthermore, 42 percent of total bookings were issued more than two months in advance. On the other hand, intra-European flow decreased 2.7 percent.
Scots at the Heart of Tourism
UNWTO Upbeat about Greek Tourism
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he people of Scotland play an integral role in the tourist experience, according to a new research by VisitScotland. The Scotland Visitor Survey revealed that 82 percent of holiday-makers to the European country agree that locals add to the overall holiday experience. Travellers also noted that Scottish people were an important source of information for things to do and see. While landscape and scenery remained the number one attraction, and history and culture were listed second, the country’s reputation for friendly citizens was also cited as a major draw.
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Greece
“W
e have no doubt that Greece will maintain a powerful image worldwide as a major tourism destination and that the country will consolidate its growth [this year], as shown by booking trends,” said Taleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), following a meeting with Elena Kountoura, economy, infrastructure, maritime affairs and tourism alternate minister, Greece, at the sidelines of ITB Berlin. The parties discussed tourism prospects in the Mediterranean country which seem positive as international tourist arrivals grew seven percent to reach 23.6 million in 2015. As Kountoura noted, the diversification of the tourism product, the development of new destinations as well as the opening of high-end accommodation facilities and services are some of the measures taken by the Greek government to enhance the sector.
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NEWS
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Malta Enjoys Double-digit Growth in January
Tallinn Increasingly Attractive for Asians
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Tallinn
Malta
Bratislava
Arrivals to Slovakia Skyrocket in 2015
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lovakia welcomed nearly 4.3 million tourists in 2015, an improvement of 16 percent over 2014, with arrivals from almost all key markets posting double-digit growth. Traveller numbers from the country’s biggest segment, the Czech Republic, increased 16 percent to surpass half million visitors, while the highest surges were recorded from the UK and the US, at 47 and 34 percent, respectively. “Presentations of Slovakia through the Slovak Tourist Board (SACR) at major international tourism fairs, info trips for international media and tour operators, as well as TV [...] and online campaigns through Google, YouTube and Facebook, have made Slovakia significantly more visible as a holiday destination all over the world,” said Marta Kučerová, CEO, SACR.
he number of Asians staying in Tallinn’s hotels surged 29 percent year-on-year in 2015. International tourists accounted for 87 percent of the total, while visitors from Finland and Russia dominated the guest mix with 48 and eight percent respectively. The volume of travellers from Latvia jumped 21 percent, from Norway six percent, the UK four percent and Germany three percent. Leisure trips were most common despite a four percent year-on-year drop, followed by business trips which increased six percent.
Domestic Travellers Drive Belarusian Tourism
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elarus welcomed around 300,000 tourists in 2015, most of which came from Russia, according to the country’s National Statistical Committee. Among non-CIS markets, the most lucrative ones were Germany, China, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, France and Estonia. Average length of stay was five days, while in 2014 it was four days. The number of domestic travellers jumped from 56,200 in 2014 to 91,500, with locals accounting for 57.2 percent of total guests recorded at accommodation establishments across the country.
Minsk
alta welcomed 84,817 tourists, excluding overnight cruise passengers, in January, marking a 14.2 percent year-on-year increase, according to the country‘s National Statistics Office. During the month under study, guest nights rose nine percent, though the average length of stay declined marginally from 8.1 nights in 2015, to 7.7 nights. Increases were registered by both private and collective type accommodation establishments with the former achieving a stronger growth rate of 24.9 percent. Travellers spent EUR65.3 million, signalling a seven percent year-on-year surge.
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New Meeting Opportunities in Athens
South Africa Backs Belarusian Golf Ambitions
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he 196-key Novotel Athènes boasts renovated meeting room areas which promise to host inspired events and creative meetings in the heart of the Greek capital. Aiming to create an ultra-modern environment with international quality standards, the property has combined innovation, technology and avant-garde aesthetics in all of its 10 meeting spaces.
Novotel Athènes
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he Belarusian Golf Association joined forces with its South African counterpart to further strengthen Belarus’ position on the global golf scene. Aimed at aiding the segment’s development, the cooperation will focus on the exchange of best practices, organisation of joint events and the training of Belarusian athletes and coaches. The Belarusian Golf Association has already mapped out a comprehensive golf and mini-golf development programme through 2020 and the upcoming golf centre in Minsk District, which will also include a hotel, is set to further accelerate the sector’s growth.
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NEWS CRUISING
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Royal Caribbean Offers Private Explorations Adding to Royal Caribbean International’s some 3,000 shore excursions, guests can now also craft personalised private journeys and immerse themselves further in local culture, cuisine and adventure.
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he concierge style planning service connects guests with one of nine destination insiders to schedule every detail of their coastal venture prior to setting sail. Using their local knowledge and experience, the experts will design activities and programmes for individual preferences. Roberta Jacoby, managing director, global tour operations, Royal Caribbean International, commented, “As travellers continue to seek out more personalised and immersive destination experiences that can be intimately shared with only their family and friends, Private Journeys empowers guests to make that a reality.”
Yachting Across the Ionian Sea
Norwegian Launches New Offerings
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orwegian Cruise Line unveiled selected 2017/2018 autumn and winter itineraries that feature sought-after destinations. Highlights include a variety of Caribbean and Bahamas cruises from New York, Port Canaveral and Miami, 10-night Canary Islands journeys from Barcelona, as well as the company’s exclusive seven-night intra-island Hawaii sailings from Honolulu. Furthermore, in addition to the previously announced seven-night Canada and New England roundtrip cruises from New York City, the company now also offers 10-night Eastern Canada and Quebec journeys.
Canary Islands
uxury Yacht Charters, a division of CKIM Group, announced that for the current season its VIP class gullet ARABELLA and luxe class gullet ASFIYE will be based in the Greek destination of Corfu and will be available for charter in the Ionian Islands. The 28m ARABELLA can accommodate eight guests in four cabins and offers a variety of amenities for water sports, including water ski, kneeboard, ringo, snorkelling and fishing equipment. Additionally, the more compact 24m ASFIYE can host the same number of voyagers, who can also enjoy water skiing, paddle-boarding, canoeing, snorkelling and fishing.
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NEWS TECHNOLOGY
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Travelport Bags Two Major Airlines
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ritish Airways and Iberia signed up for Travelport’s airline merchandising solution, Rich Content and Branding. The technology takes fares, product attribute selling, comparison shopping and ancillary service attachments to an innovative level by enabling carriers to fully display their brand proposition, exactly as they would on their own websites. Derek Sharp, senior vice president, air commerce, Travelport, commented, “Both British Airways and Iberia are important, longstanding airline partners and this announcement is very good news for our mutual customers around the world.”
Quality Reservations Opts for Sabre
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abre and Quality Reservations entered into an agreement to provide hospitality technology solutions to the European hotel industry in a bid to advance online distribution in the continent’s multi-facetted accommodation market. “Sabre provides high-performing reservation technology, [while] Quality Reservations has the market know-how and hotel expertise for the European market,” noted Carolin Brauer, managing director, Quality Reservations. As she explained, the company will provide strategic consulting to ensure that each hotel is able to exploit the system’s potential to its fullest and generate more online revenue. “It is our goal to increase the number of our partner hotels in major European locations to 1,200 by 2020,” Brauer further revealed.
Bella Center Assists Visitors
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iming to help customers find their way around, Bella Center Copenhagen introduced a new app and digital navigation solution through which visitors use indoor positioning to get directions from one activity to another while searching for points of interests throughout the entire facility. The software incorporates Google Maps, which enables clients to download a route from their home to the nearest entrance and then to either a specific stand in the exhibition hall or to a meeting room in the congress centre. For each trade show, the digital map solution is updated to match the exhibition floor plan.
Lufthansa App Now Tracks Luggage
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ufthansa further developed its digital luggage services enabling passengers to track the current location of their suitcase through a link on their mobile boarding pass via the Lufthansa app. Upon arrival at their destination, the software informs users of the carousel number and, as of June, the exact time of the delivery. The service will initially be available in Frankfurt, Munich, Stuttgart and Milan. In addition, Lufthansa has also teamed up with RIMOWA to introduce RIMOWA Electronic Tag allowing travellers to check-in their luggage from home or on the road though the airline’s application.
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NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Marriott to Amplify European Presence Marriott International will double its size its Europe once the acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is completed, allowing the company to reach over 123,000 opened or signed rooms on the continent.
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his year, the hotelier’s Autograph Collection is to open four properties, including two Roomers in Germany; AC Hotels is expected to launch in the UK for the first time, in Manchester and Birmingham in May; Moxy Hotels is to grow with five new projects by the end of the year; and Courtyard Hotels will see its contemporary design at three more establishments – in Edinburgh, the Czech Republic and Brussels.
prizeotel Hamburg-City
Rezidor Enters Economy Segment
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he Rezidor Hotel Group acquired a 49 percent stake in prizeotel for EUR14.7 million, marking the company’s debut in the economy sector. Along with the deal, the hotelier also secured rights, including the takeover of the remaining 51 percent of the start-up company, in four years from now. prizeotel currently operates three properties in Germany with another project under development, and as Elie Younes, chief development officer, The Rezidor Hotel Group, revealed, initial targets for growth will focus on the German network and in key cities across Austria, Switzerland and the Benelux states, through leases as well as management agreements.
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The Barcelona EDITION to Open in 2017
Moxy Hotels Plots European Expansion
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The Barcelona EDITION
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arriott International plans to introduce five Moxy Hotels in Europe this year, with projects in Munich, Eschborn and Berlin in Germany, Oslo in Norway and Aberdeen in the UK. The new properties are expected to strengthen the brand’s ongoing expansion scheme following the debut of Moxy Milan in September 2014. The brand aims to offer a portfolio of 150 hotels worldwide within the next 10 years. Amy McPherson, president, Europe, Marriott International, revealed that nine more Moxy openings are expected in 2017.
Munich
he Barcelona EDITION is to welcome its first guests in 2017, expanding Marriott International’s Spanish portfolio. An existing office building in the city’s Ciutat Vella district will be transformed into a 100-key contemporary luxurylifestyle hotel. Guests will enjoy access to three restaurants, a lobby space, club and a rooftop bar. Speaking of the brand’s third project on the continent, Dan Flannery, global managing director, EDITION, Marriott International, said, “EDITION continues to thrive following the recent and iconic openings of London, Miami Beach and New York City.”
Venice Grand Canal
Venice to Receive Its First InterContinental
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he InterContinental brand will debut in Venice in early 2018 with the opening of the 51-room InterContinental Venice – Palazzo Nani, which will be operated under a franchise agreement with Cordifin Group and H.n.h Hotels & Resorts Management. Located in a converted 16th century palace on Cannaregio Canal, the property will boast restored hand-painted alfresco ceilings and hand-carved wooden beams, and will feature wellness and meeting facilities, as well as a Club InterContinental Lounge, among others. “InterContinental Venice – Palazzo Nani is in a fantastic location and we could not have asked for a more beautiful building in this timeless city,” said Luca Boccato, CEO, H.n.h. Hotels & Resorts Management.
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SHORT BREAK MOSCOW
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PROUD AND
Undeterred
ANA MLADENOVIC WRITES
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oscow’s hotel market is seeing the impact of several geopolitical and macroeconomic factors, according to Tatiana Veller, head of hotels and hospitality group, Russia and CIS, Jones Lang LaSalle. “With the external image change, the foreign tourist inflow has shifted from West to East, replacing the Europeans and Americans with Koreans, Chinese, Vietnamese and [led to] the hugely increased number of domestic tourists, following every attempt by the country’s government to localise the economy in all possible ways,” she explained. Veller’s views have been confirmed by the experiences of the local hoteliers, many of whom reported an increase in guests from Asia, and also from other new markets. “Asian tourists like history and art, and we have a lot of attractions to be proud of. So this market is growing year by year,” confirmed Inna Pehova, director of business development, Metropol Hotel, highlighting, however, that Russia and the CIS are still the property’s main sources. A similar sentiment has been shared by Ludmila Mikhalina, director of public relations, The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya, who also emphasised a surrge in Chinese guests, as well as those from Latin America, but the hotel’s clientele still largely relies on the Russian regions and CIS countries – which make up 51 percent of total mix – and the US. However, there are still those that retain a firm grip on the European markets, as Olga Naumova, sales and marketing coordinator, Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka, said, citing Germany, France, the UK and Italy as the establishment’s most lucrative international sources, alongside the US. “Moscow substantially holds the interest of its traditional markets in Central Europe, including Germany, France, Italy, Austria and Switzerland, as well as the UK and the US,” supported Lada Samodumskaya, area director, sales and marketing, Russia and CIS, Kempinski.
THE CURRENT GEOPOLITICAL AND ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS HAVE ALTERED THE FACE OF MOSCOW’S TOURISM, HOWEVER, NOT NECESSARILY FOR THE WORSE AS THE COUNTRY’S RESILIENT HOSPITALITY STAKEHOLDERS CLAIM. GIVEN THE WEAKENED RUSSIAN ROUBLE, NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES HAVE OPENED UP THAT STILL NEED TO BE DEVELOPED TO THEIR FULL POTENTIAL.
THE TIME TO VISIT IS NOW
MOSCOW IN BRIEF Country: Russia Currency: Russian Rouble (RUB) Language: Russian Population: 12 million Calling Code: +7495 Time Zone: GMT +3:00
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Political and economic considerations currently affecting the country have weakened the Russian Rouble, making Moscow affordable for international guests who can now meet the expense of many of the luxuries previously unattainable to them. Veller explained that with the recent volatility in oil prices which are directly affecting the Russian currency valuation, Moscow properties became a bargain for foreign tourists, who are upgrading en masse to higher-quality hotels, and are enjoying the cultural scene, dining and shopping like never before. Andrey Danilov, communications manager, Moscow Convention and Exhibition Bureau, explained, “Recently one of world’s most expensive megacities, Moscow is turning quite affordable nowadays, to the extent that one can pay a long over-
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due visit to the heart of Russia for roughly [one half ] or [one third] of what it cost several years ago.” He further highlighted the aforementioned practically-minded Chinese tourists as the first to seize the opportunity, leading to the flourishing of the market. “According to the official statistics, the tourist flow from China doubled in 2015 as compared to 2014, reaching a record figure of 670,000 visitors. The estimate for [this year] is even more impressive: over 1.3 million tourists from China are expected in Moscow by the close of the year,” Danilov confidently asserted. MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCKS In addition to more than a fair price tag to a trip to Moscow, travellers are greeted with new and upgraded attractions and facilities designed to make their stay convenient and memorable. “The architectural landscape of Moscow is constantly developing and the city is becoming more pedestrianfriendly,” enthused Samodumskaya, pointing to the city’s newest gem, Garage Museum. “World-famous architect Rem Koolhaas created the building, which is already hosting inspiring exhibitions of globally prominent modern artists,” she revealed, adding that in the coming years, the long-awaited opening of Zaryadye Park – located near Red Square and Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow – will take place. The hard work of the local authorities to make the city tourist-friendly with signs and metro announcements in English as well as info desks, among other initiatives, was highlighted by Eugenia Goncharenko, public relations and marketing director, Russian Federation, Marriott International. “Every single detail is helpful to promote Moscow and increase the number of tourists [to the capital],” she
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SHORT BREAK MOSCOW
asserted. Individual hotels have also taken it upon themselves to make the city and its charms accessible to foreign tourists through their all-knowing concierges. “During summer or any other season, there is a lot to be seen in Moscow and its immediate surroundings, besides the bucket list Red Square, Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre. For this reason, we have actually recently created a destination guide on our website, that we plan to develop even further,” explained Ekaterina Bykova, director of public relations and communications, Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, adding that one can easily find the key places to visit depending on their situation and whether they are travelling with friends, kids, discovering attractions and unique experiences, or driving outside of the capital. In addition to welcoming new must-visits and tourist friendly services, Moscow’s room inventory is expected to slightly grow in preparation to the 2018 World Football Cup, according to Veller. Increases are mainly slated in the bottom spectrum of the brands, although some upscale projects are also in the pipeline, she revealed. To accommodate any further growth in arrivals, adequate airport infrastructure is a must and this is precisely what Sheremetyevo International Airport is working on at the moment. Estimating a rise in traffic from 31 million passengers in 2015 to 59 million travellers in 2030, the hub is currently developing the brand new Terminal B, a 100,000m2 facility with the capacity to handle up to 15 million flyers per year.
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NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Doyle Collection Refreshes Cork Hotel
Denmark Hotel Scene Blossoming
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Copenhagen
openhagen welcomed Urban House, a cross between hotel and hostel featuring a large lounge area, bar, bike shop and a tattoo parlour, among more. The Danish capital also received Bedwood Hostel, located in a historic seafront waterhouse dating back to 1756. A number of the country’s accommodation establishments have also recently undergone renovations, including Copenhagen’s Absalon Hotel and Tivoli Hotel. This year, Denmark also anticipates the re-emergence of several other properties upon refurbishment, such as Phoenix Copenhagen, Avenue Hotel and Hotel Randers. Further afar, Aarhus, which is taking up the mantle of European Capital of Culture in 2017, expects several new projects to enter the market, including Wakeup Hotel and Library Hostel. Additionally, the capital city is to welcome a new Scandic Group Hotels venture in 2018.
Rezidor: Hat-trick in Belgium
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he Rezidor Hotel Group revealed plans to launch three new projects in Belgium, bringing the company’s portfolio in the country to eight properties with 925 rooms in operation or under development. Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of the year, the 84-key Park Inn by Radisson Hasselt will share its meeting spaces with the adjacent Radisson Blu establishment. Coming up in the first quarter of 2018, Park Inn by Radisson Antwerp Berchem will feature 133 units, while Park Inn by Radisson Bruges will comprise 133 rooms. Wolfgang Neumann, CEO, The Rezidor Hotel Group, described Belgium as an important market for the hotelier’s midscale core brand.
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The River Lee
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rish family-owned luxury group, The Doyle Collection announced a multimillion investment in its Cork hotel, The River Lee. Sophisticated business and event facilities known as The Hub mark the first stage of the programme. Pat King, CEO, The Doyle Collection, commented, “This incredible investment in Cork is just another part of a series of enhancements to The River Lee. […] From luxurious furnishings to its warm aesthetic appeal overlooking the River Lee, The Hub is a superb meetings and events facility in the heart of Cork city for businesses all over the country.”
Marriott Unveils European Convention Network
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iming to provide a streamlined, cost-effective and comprehensive service for meeting planners, Marriott International launched European Convention Network, a collection of 14 of its conference hotels. The venues are located in key gateway cities across the continent and operate under a number of brands of the hotelier. Each facility has a capacity for at least 150 delegates with the largest hotel, Marriott Rome Park offering space for 2,800 people. Pauline Bronkhorst, head, European Convention Network, commented that the launch brings together the scale of Marriott International‘s European meetings and events capabilities with a simplified and personal approach which puts the meeting and events planner at the heart of the process.
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NEWS AIRPORTS
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New All Time High in Copenhagen
Copenhagen Airport
Copenhagen Airports set a new passenger record for the fifth successive year, having served 26.6 million travellers in 2015. Total revenue jumped five percent to DKK4.06 billion (EUR544.5 million).
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ccording to Thomas Woldbye, CEO, Copenhagen Airports, the hub invested heavily in its infrastructure in 2015, having expanded and refurbished the passenger areas in Terminal 2, and added two lanes to the central security check. “Pier C was extended by 6,000m2 and one of the main runways widened to accommodate a rising number of long-haul aircraft, including the world’s largest passenger plane, the Airbus 380,” added Woldbye.
AIA Reviews Incentives
Lapland Attracts New Air Links
Nearly Half Million People Choose BSCA
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thens International Airport (AIA)’s 16th Airline Marketing Workshop focussed on the management’s marketing support programmes, the liberalisation and profits for the industry, loyalty schemes, as well as passenger experience enhancement. Some 250 guests at the event attended the presentations of key speakers and watched airport employees showcase on stage, for the first time, the new terminal uniforms. Ioanna Papadopoulou, director of communications and marketing, AIA, pointed out, “This year, we presented our marketing strategy and actions, including all targeted schemes and initiatives we have designed and implemented, to create the environment allowing airlines to further develop and boost destination Athens as well.”
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onarch is the latest airline to announce direct services to Lapland. The UK-based carrier’s twice-weekly flights between London and Kittilä will be available from December to February 2017. Monarch will also operate to the Nordic destination from Manchester during December. Between 2014 and this year, Finavia has invested EUR35 million in Lapland’s airports and has also stepped up its marketing efforts. Compared to an average airfield on the Alps, the costs of services to airlines are considered to be over 50 percent lower.
Kittilä Airport
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russels South Charleroi Airport (BSCA) ended February with a 13 percent year-on-year increase in passenger numbers as 489,481 customers passed through its gates. Load factor also improved to 85 percent. Popular destinations from the airport included the Mediterranean region and Eastern Europe. Specifically, for the second successive month, Italy was number one on the list followed by Spain, Morocco, France and Poland. Work is underway on the extension to BSCA’s Terminal 2 which is expected to increase peak capacity in order to relieve pressure on the existing facility.
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NEWS AIR
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Austrian Airlines to Fly to Hong Kong On September 05, Austrian Airlines will inaugurate a new five-weekly route connecting Vienna with Hong Kong, onboard a Boeing 777 aircraft.
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s of September, we are offering flights to the three largest cities in China: Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong”, explained Andreas Otto, chief commercial officer, Austrian Airlines. The Asian metropolis is perceived as an attractive destination for point-to-point traffic, and also for transfer passengers as it is estimated that two thirds of the travellers from the city will use Vienna to connect to flights to their final destinations in Western and Eastern Europe.
Air France-KLM Grows Worldwide Presence
Alicante
Norwegian Heads to Spain
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ust in time for the summer season, Norwegian is launching new services from Manchester and Edinburgh to three Spanish destinations. From April 30, two weekly flights will take off from the UK’s northwest airport to Barcelona offering nearly 20,000 seats over the coming months. June 02 will mark the inauguration of the fourweekly Manchester – Malaga route, while the twiceweekly Alicante itinerary will start on June 03. Passengers can also take advantage of the new Edinburgh – Barcelona offering. Effective from June 15, a total of 15,000 seats will be available between the two destinations.
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or the period up to October 29, the Air France-KLM group’s total capacity is set to increase 1.5 percent year-on-year, mainly driven by Transavia’s low-cost flights operated from France, the Netherlands and Munich. Long- and medium-haul activity will moderately grow by 0.1 and 0.7 percent, respectively. “This season, we are developing our global network to win over new markets, particularly in Europe where we are demonstrating the group’s agility and ability to capture numerous growth drivers. Air France-KLM is offering its customers over 50 new routes worldwide with our four companies. This dynamic management of our flight offering is supported by a modern fleet, equipped with ever more comfortable travel cabins,” commented stated Alexandre de Juniac, chairman, Air France-KLM.
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NEWS AIR
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Air Serbia Strengthens Regional Network
easyJet Expands Footprint in Montenegro
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hrid is the next destination to join Air Serbia’s route map. From June onwards, the national carrier will operate three nonstop weekly flights to the Macedonian resort city. The airline is also upgrading its Dubrovnik service to daily and will offer an additional fifth weekly frequency to Pula on the Croatian coast, while the Montenegrin town of Tivat will receive up to 30 return flights per week during the summer season. “Air Serbia is in a very exciting growth phase right now, and we are working closely with our tourism and trade partners to ensure the new services really take off,” commented Dane Kondić, CEO, Air Serbia.
Ohrid
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n June 16, easyJet will connect London’s Gatwick Airport to Tivat with twiceweekly flights. The Montenegrin city is already welcoming the budget carrier’s services which launched from Manchester in March. “With its Mediterranean climate and a vibrant coastline littered with beaches, Montenegro is a truly up and coming destination which will provide more than a match for the long-established med resorts,” enthused Neil Slaven, commercial manager, easyJet.
Ko šice and Dubrovnik Linked to Turkey
DID YOU KNOW... Tivat is close to the coastal town of Kotor as well as Porto Montenegro, a new modern superyacht marina?
Nordic Aviation Connects Estonia and Scotland
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Košice
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ased on fleet availability, Turkish Airlines will start operating scheduled flights from Istanbul to Košice and Dubrovnik. As Richard Raši, mayor, Košice, commented, connectivity to Eastern Slovakia and its surrounding regions will now be boosted at a worldwide level. He added that the move is also an unmistakable sign of the Slovak city’s standing as a development leader for the country.
n May 28, Nordic Aviation will start thrice-weekly services linking Tallinn and Edinburgh. Scheduled to run until October 03, the route will be served in cooperation with Adria Airways. Erik Sakkov, board member, Nordic Aviation, noted that the UK city’s rich historical heritage makes it perfect for Estonian holiday-makers who will enjoy a unique combination of ancient Scottish and modern European culture. “Tallinn and Estonia have a lot to offer to Scottish people, too. Our country’s beautiful medieval capital, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Estonia’s diverse nature and fascinating cultural traditions make it possible that everyone will find something for themselves,” he enthused.
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NEWS AIR Pegasus Flies to Amman and Gabala
TAP Encourages Lisbon Stopovers
Amman
Austrian Airlines Boosts Summer Offerings
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rovidence is the next destination to join Azores Airlines’ growing global network. Between June 30 – September 01, the Portuguese carrier will operate 10 frequencies between Ponta Delgado’s airport and the Rhode Island destination. The flights, which will take off once a week on Thursdays, will be operated by a 222-seat Airbus A310-300 aircraft.
Monarch Offers Winter Sun Options
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Bari
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Providence
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egasus Airlines added Amman and Gabala to its ever-growing network. The thrice-weekly services between the Jordanian capital and Ankara are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays and passengers can also take advantage of convenient connections from the Turkish destination to other key locations, such as Istanbul and Vienna. The low-cost carrier is now also operating from London Stansted Airport and Gatwick Airport to the Azeri city of Gabala via Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport three times per week.
Lisbon
s Andreas Otto, chief commercial officer, Austrian Airlines, explained, the carrier is witnessing a significant increase in interest for Spanish and Italian destinations, compared to 2015, as geopolitical reasons have shifted holiday preferences towards those locations. “We are responding to this demand with a total of 96 weekly flights to Italy and 11 to Spain,” he revealed. In addition, the airline added two new holiday routes for this summer, namely Jerez, Spain and Bari, Italy. All in all, the airline is offering passengers 132 destinations in 55 countries in its summer flight schedule.
Azores Airlines Heads to the US
onarch will add more itineraries to its winter schedule with a total of 240,000 additional seats now available onboard flights from a number of UK airports to Malaga, Gibraltar, Funchal, Almeria, Gran Canaria, Madeira and Ovda. As Marjan Schoeke, head of network development, Monarch, commented, the new summer route to Lisbon will operate throughout the winter months as it proved a popular choice. He also revealed, “We are introducing a new scheduled service to Kittilä, where customers can experience all that Finland has to offer with an extensive range of Santa and adventure holidays.”
Madeira
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head of the upcoming launch of its new services to Boston and New York, TAP has stepped up its promotional activities overseas. The carrier’s recently-announced Stopover programme will allow passengers from the US to visit Portugal, through a leisure stopover, before continuing their journey to their final destination in Europe. This way, travellers will enjoy two trips during their voyage and will have the opportunity to explore Lisbon or other hotspots in the country. Daily services to Boston are set to begin on June 11 and will be followed by the inauguration of operations to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport on July 01.
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10 APRIL 2016
NEWS AIR
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Ryanair Launches Jet Hire
Ryanair’s new jet service
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yanair introduced a corporate jet charter service, onboard a customised Boeing 737-700. The airline’s new offering can cater to up to 60 travellers flying medium to long-range distances and includes reclining leather seats with a 1.20m pitch as well as fine-dining catering options. With more than 25 million corporate passengers choosing the carrier’s itineraries every year, Robin Kiely, head of communications, Ryanair, commented that now business and group travellers can enjoy the benefits of the airline’s new jet service.
VistaJet Unveils New App
Johannesburg
New Air France Cabins Take Off to Johannesburg
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ir France passengers flying between ParisCharles de Gaulle and Johannesburg enjoy now optimum travel comfort thanks to the newly-installed cabins on the Boeing 777-300 deployed on the route. The gradual equipment of the new units on the aircraft enable the airline to offer two weekly services with the La Première, business, premium economy and economy cabins, in addition to the frequencies operated by Airbus A380, a total of seven weekly flights. La Première customers enjoy a real designer suite, promising total privacy. Passengers on all African routes operated by the carrier benefit from tailormade services, from the moment of their arrival to the airport.
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ith savvy customers in mind, VistaJet launched a mobile app designed to simplify the flight booking experience. To save time, travellers can request a flight, add multiple legs, amend bookings and review itineraries with real-time notifications. Guests can also navigate the menus, including catering from local restaurants, at the departure city. The app also provides the latest news through Voyager, the carrier’s custom in-flight entertainment software. “VistaJet flies regularly to over 80 percent of the globe including China and the US. The new mobile app ensures our customers can get in touch, confirm or amend flights and manage their account wherever and whenever,” confirmed Thomas Flohr, founder, VistaJet.
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NEWS AIR Pegasus Airlines Enjoys Successful 2015
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Austrian Airlines Maintains Upward Trend
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urkish carrier Pegasus Airlines handled 22.34 million passengers in 2015, translating into a 13.2 percent year-on year increase. From the total traffic, 13.81 million travellers flew on domestic routes, meaning a 15.4 percent rise over 2014, while the number of customers flying on international itineraries grew 9.8 percent to 8.52 million. Earnings before tax reached TRY182.4 million (EUR57.02 million), a 34 percent surge over 2014, while sales revenue rose 13 percent. Furthermore, the airline boosted its capacity by 14.5 percent to 28.26 million seats, and achieved an average load factor of 79 percent.
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ustrian Airlines carried 620,000 passengers in February, a 6.2 percent year-on-year rise. Available seat kilometres grew 9.3 percent to 1.5 billion, while revenue passenger kilometres increased 6.9 percent to over a billion. Average load factor stood at 69.8 percent, indicating a 1.5 percentage drop from February 2015 and the number of flights rose 9.3 percent to 9,104. Between January – February, the airline carried more than 1.2 million travellers, signalling a 3.7 percent growth, though capacity utilisation was down 1.7 percentage points to 70 percent.
S7 Airlines’ January Traffic Surges
Double-digit Growth for LOT
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7 Airlines transported 879,882 passengers in January, 22.7 percent more than during the same month in 2015. Growth was mainly driven by domestic traffic within Russia, which surged 32.5 percent year-on-year to 630,561 travellers. International routes also posted a growth of 3.3 percent with 249,321 passengers. “In December [2015], the airline introduced a new fare system for different passenger categories. With these new fares, passengers should pay only for those services which they are going to use, which allowed a larger number of passengers to go for a trip at a favourable price,” explained Igor Veretennikov, strategy director, S7 Group.
emand for LOT Polish Airlines’ established as well as new routes continued to soar in January and February with passenger numbers increasing 17 and 24 percent, respectively. The travelling public has quickly embraced the 13 new options offered by the carrier, which also include a long-haul service to Tokyo. “It is the most objective indicator that quickly verified whether we met the passengers’ needs,” commented Adrian Kubicki, director of corporate communication, LOT Polish Airlines, adding that the growth proves that the company’s offers are used not only by frequent flyers but also by new customers.
Brussels Airlines Remains Popular
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he number of Brussels Airlines passengers surged 8.5 percent in January to 466,310, pushing the load factor up 7.8 percentage points to 71.4 percent. Traveller figures on European routes rose 6.3 percent in comparison with January 2015. Demand on flights to African destinations saw an increase of 22.4 percent year-on-year, and the load factor on itineraries to the continent reached 78.6 percent.
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Tokyo
10 APRIL 2016
RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
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STEPHEN XUEREB CEO, VALLETTA CRUISE PORT
WITH INCREASING ARRIVALS EACH YEAR, MALTA IS SWIFTLY MAKING A NAME FOR ITSELF AS A VIABLE CRUISE TOURISM DESTINATION, AND AS STEPHEN XUEREB, CEO, VALLETTA CRUISE PORT, REVEALS, THERE IS AMPLE OPPORTUNITY FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT.
TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: How important is the cruise segment to Malta’s overall tourism industry? STEPHEN XUEREB: Valletta Cruise Port works in synergy with all stakeholders in the tourism sector, most notably with Malta Tourism Authority. The cruise industry impacts the local economy, including the tourism sector, through the multiplier effect. The cruise industry in the Maltese Islands can only grow if we continue to provide a consistently superior level of service and create added value through collaboration with all local partners. Valletta is already rated very highly in terms of service delivery. Still, [we continue our efforts] to find ways to further 10 APRIL 2016
Valletta Cruise Port
improve and exceed expectations. Research we regularly conduct shows that passengers are pleasantly surprised by their brief visit in Malta. They highlight that they would like to return for a longer stay and will recommend a visit to family and friends. Valletta Cruise Port scores highly in customer satisfaction ratings and we strive in continuing to excel in our product offering. TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: Malta’s cruise passenger traffic increased 27.3 percent in 2015 over 2014. What are your expectations for this year? STEPHEN XUEREB: [This year] is looking very positive and Valletta is expected to welcome an unprecedented 740,000 passenger movements. It is indeed an exciting time for Valletta Cruise Port. TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: Which are Valetta Cruise Port’s long-term objectives for further developing Malta’s cruise tourism industry? STEPHEN XUEREB: Valletta Cruise Port works closely with all local partners including agents, Malta Tourism Authority and Malta International Airport that have developed a mutual and beneficial cooperation, ensuring an efficient homeport operation that is duly recognised internationally. Logistical requirements are jointly
discussed, with considerable investment in facilities constantly being made. Malta proved itself to be professional, efficient, reliable and flexible in meeting expectations on all fronts. The success of Valletta Cruise Port has consolidated Malta’s reputation as a reliable partner for cruise lines. Situated in the centre of the Mediterranean, Malta provides an easy starting point for cruise operators wanting to offer western or eastern Mediterranean itineraries. Improving the infrastructure on Quays 4/5 and towards Lascaris Wharf is critical to the continued growth of the industry in Valletta. Valletta Cruise Port is currently working on these plans looking to the future. TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: In your opinion, are there any challenges that need to be addressed for Malta to further develop into a flourishing cruising destination? STEPHEN XUEREB: Valletta Cruise Port is a renowned port of call and a growing homeport, situated in the centre of the Mediterranean. Its central location makes it ideal for diverse east and west Mediterranean cruise itineraries. The cruise industry in the Maltese Islands can only grow if we continue to provide a consistently superior level of service and create added value through collaboration with all local partners.
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MICHAEL TMEJ
CEO, MESSE BERLIN
CEO, KOŠICE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
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The travel industry […] can provide suitable answers
ELIE YOUNES
“Never before in its 50 years has ITB Berlin welcomed so many trade visitors to the exhibition halls [than this year]. After this five-day event, trade visitors and exhibitors [left] Berlin with a clear message: even in times dominated by a sense of uncertainty people are not willing to do without their holiday trips. Conversely, […] the travel industry has made it clear that it can provide suitable answers to the major challenges that it currently faces.”
Our […] strategy targets a scaled growth of Park Inn by Radisson
CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, THE REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP
284 destinations will be soon available to passengers from Košice “We are absolutely delighted about the decision of Turkish Airlines regarding scheduled operations to Košice. Turkish Airlines is flying to more countries than any other airline worldwide and this super-wide network of 284 destinations will be soon available to passengers from Košice and the whole region of eastern Slovakia, western Ukraine, northeastern Hungary and southeastern Poland. All of them will have the opportunity to enjoy famous high-class service onboard Turkish Airlines.”
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT MANAGER, KEMPINSKI HOTEL BARBAROS BAY
ARZU TOPCU CIVAK
CHRISTIAN GÖKE
TRAVEL TALK
“Our long-term strategy targets a scaled growth of Park Inn by Radisson in the Benelux [states] and the brand development in key primary and secondary cities. [The three new signings in Belgium] support our goal and allow us to further strengthen our presence in Hasselt and Antwerp where we are already present.”
Turkey has always been a popular destination for families
“Turkey has always been a popular destination for families with its friendly resorts which are designed with kids’ happiness and satisfaction in mind. The warm weather, a warm sea temperature during summer months, reasonable accommodation and flight package, and ease of transportation from Europe also help to increase the popularity of the region.”
TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
HILTON ATHENS BACKS EARTH HOUR
UNWTO ADDRESSES CHILD MISTREATMENT
L Hilton Athens
ack of reporting, weak legislation and the anonymity of the Internet were highlighted as some of the main challenges in child protection from exploitation in tourism, according to a global study. The report findings, along with a host of initiatives by other stakeholders, were discussed at the 31st Meeting of the World Tourism Network on Child Protection, held on the occasion of ITB Berlin, which focussed on the role and initiatives of the private sector to combat the matter. “We need to unite to fight child exploitation and the commitment of the private sector is key,” stressed Taleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
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ilton Athens participated in World Wildlife Fund (WWF)’s Earth Hour initiative. On March 19, the hotel switched off the lights across its interior and exterior areas, and urged guests to keep their room lamps off for one hour. Supporting this global concept, the property also invited popular singer Katerine Duska and her band to play unplugged by candlelight. Organised by WWF and volunteer organisations worldwide, the movement has a mission to unite people in their endeavours to protect the planet.
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IATA SUPPORTS RUSSIAN AVIATION SECTOR
n celebration of the 20th anniversary of the opening of its office in Moscow and in a bid to strengthen the Russian aviation sector, International Air Transport Association (IATA) penned a deal with Russian Association of Air Transport Operators at the firstever IATA Aviation Day Russia. On this occasion, IATA proposed an agenda which foresees further implementation of global standards and best practices. “These are difficult times for Russian aviation and there is no silver bullet solution to invigorating the sector. However a partnership agenda that extends the positive impact that global standards are having in safety and distribution will strengthen the foundations of the sector for success,” said Tony Tyler, director general, IATA.
A FUTURE OF AIR TRAVEL IS ALMOST HERE
10 APRIL 2016
s Internet of Things (IoT) enters the travel industry, passengers will be enjoying seamless self-service with airlines and at airports over the next three years, according to SITA’s latest industry report The Future Is Connected. The study reveals that smartphones are reshaping travel behaviour and with growth rates of around 80 percent or more at the check-in and boarding pass stages, travellers are keen to use their own technology. The groundwork by the air transport industry to establishing the infrastructure and processes that enable smoother travel is under way and is gathering further momentum. Nigel Pickford, director, market insight, SITA, noted, “Half of airlines expect to have IoT initiatives up and running over the next three years meanwhile airports are building out the infrastructure to support IoT.”
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Athmann has held various management positions
CAROLINE MACDONALD has been selected as vice president of sales and marketing for Europe and the Americas at Rosewood Hotel Group. In her new role, MacDonald will oversee all sales and marketing initiatives within Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, including the management and supervision of the company’s five regional sales offices and the properties’ directors of sales and marketing. MacDonald boasts more than 25 years of experience in the global luxury hospitality industry. Prior to joining the group, she spent 15 years with Auberge Resorts, where she most recently served as chief marketing officer handling all domestic and international sales, marketing as well as public relations efforts.
ALEXANDER ARAFA has been promoted to head of global area management at Swiss WorldCargo, the airfreight division of Swiss International Air Lines. Arafa, who currently serves as head of cabin crew at the airline, will assume his new duties on June 01. In his capacity, he will be in charge of worldwide sales of the cargo segment’s products and services. In order to excel in his impending position, Arafa will draw from his extensive airline knowledge and sales experience. Arafa began his aviation career in Hamburg as an accounting analyst with Northwest Airlines 33 years ago and has since served in various positions at Olympic Airways, American Airlines and Lufthansa, prior to joining the Swiss carrier in 1999.
GIANCARLO RIZZI has taken over at Hotel Savoy, Florence as the new general manager. Rizzi’s career includes roles at various luxury hotels in Italy and other European countries. Among others, he held positions at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, The Ritz-Carlton, Paris and Le Royal Monceau, Paris. Most recently he served as hotel manager at Villa La Massa in Florence, and resident manager at Villa D’Este in Lake Como and at The Bauer’s in Venice. His vast knowledge of all aspects of hotel management brings a wealth of operational and management knowledge to the role and to the team. Rizzi is now tasked with managing the successful day-today operations of the hotel.
CAROLINE MACDONALD
STEFAN ATHMANN has been appointed area general manager for Europe at Regent Hotels & Resorts. As the hotelier expands and focusses more on Europe, Athmann will oversee the daily business at Regent Berlin, and will also be responsible for the strategic direction as well as pipeline projects of the group. Athmann has held various management positions within hotel groups during his career. He gained his first experience at Regent Berlin as director of sales and marketing in 2005 before moving to Radisson Blu Hotel, Belfast where he served as general manager.
GIANCARLO RIZZI
ALEXANDER ARAFA
STEFAN ATHMANN
WHO’S MOVED
10 APRIL 2016
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PHOTO ALBUM
Association of Independent Tour Operators celebrated its 40th anniversary
EUROCONTROL received the Jane’s 2016 ATC Special Achievement Award
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.
British celebrities joined the Sports Relief fundraiser initiative at Manchester Airport
Qatar Airways Cargo launched freighter services to Budapest
10 APRIL 2016
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
British Airways cabin crew and their trolleys dashed over Westminster Bridge for Sport Relief
Monarch presented its 19 newest recruits
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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS
Inverness to Welcome Travel Writers
SITT Novosibirsk, Russia April 14 – 16 www.sitt-expo.ru A major happening in Siberia, SITT attracts more than 200 Russian and foreign tourist companies, tour operators, health resorts and hotels.
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nverness will be in the social media spotlight as more than 40 of the world’s top travel bloggers and social media influencers converge in the city for the two-day Social Travel Summit, in September. In a bid to promote Britain internationally, VisitBritain will be sponsoring this year’s edition. Leading voyage bloggers will gather to share the latest trends and insights with delegates about how digital marketing is influencing travel. The event will also feature keynote speakers, workshops as well as panel and roundtable discussions. As part of the summit, the bloggers will undertake tours across Britain to experience the depth and variety of travel products on offer.
Prague Hosts European Habitat Conference IMEX
ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai, UAE April 25 – 28 www.arabiantravelmarket.com A major event where global destinations showcase a diverse range of accommodation options, tourist attractions, travel technology and key airline routes.
Prague
Frankfurt, Germany April 19 – 21 www.imex-frankfurt.com A landmark exhibition for professionals working in the MICE industry where global decision-makers meet with 3,500 suppliers for three days of business.
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n March, Prague welcomed the United Nations’ regional conference, European Habitat, held under the theme Housing in Liveable Cities. “It is symbolic that we are honoured to host an event of such magnitude and importance in the year when the Czech Republic celebrates the 700th birth anniversary of one of the most prominent European visionaries of urbanism, King Charles IV,” noted Karla Šlechtová, regional development minister, Czech Republic. European Habitat is one of the several preparatory meetings leading to the global Habitat III summit, which will take place in Quito, Ecuador, between October 17 – 20.
Helsinki Airport Turns Into a Fashion Hub
DIGITAL TRAVEL SUMMIT London, UK June 07 – 08 digitaltraveleu.wbresearch.com Attracting over 400 top hoteliers, airlines, cruise lines, car rentals and online travel agents, the event offers senior professionals the opportunity to address the most pressing digital challenges.
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n May 24, Helsinki Airport will host a one-of-a-kind fashion show on its Runway 2, featuring collections by seven top designers from China, Korea, Japan, the UK, Sweden, Denmark and Finland. “The airport, located along the shortest route between Asia and Europe, is a constant inspiration for us, and on May 24 fashion designers from both the West and East will meet here for this special runway show,” enthused Katja Siberg, vice president, marketing and business development, Finavia. “With this fashion show, we want to celebrate the connections between Europe and Asia, and showcase the work of some of the hottest designers from these two continents,” added Johanna Jäkälä, vice president, brand, marketing and loyalty, Finnair.
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