Cambodia’s helicopter tourism sector is set to soar to new heights as Bell Textron explores opportunities in the market, positioning its Bell 505 as a suitable option for the country’s growing demand in this area.
During a three-day test flight of the five-seater aircraft in Phnom Penh, Bell demonstration pilot Sean Mah said that Cambodia’s economic growth and rising interest in premium travel make it a strong candidate for the introduction of the Bell 505. He noted that the aircraft could help connect key tourism sites such as Siem Reap and Phnom Penh in under two hours, provide transport to private islands, support scenic flights, and offer access to remote resorts. The helicopter can travel up to 300 nautical miles in approximately four hours.
Helicopter links between key destinations could boost Cambodia’s premium tourism offerings; photo by Marissa Carruthers
Mah pointed out that a growth in demand for VIP and executive travel in the Kingdom also contributed to Bell’s decision.
He noted: “This is a modern, single-engine helicopter that Cambodia can use for tourism, but is also great for corporate transport to get from A to B, especially to remote areas or places that aren’t serviced by commercial airliners.”
Since its launch in 2017, more than 100 Bell 505 units have been delivered across the Asia-Pacific region, including to Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand.
Cambodia’s helicopter tourism market is currently served by Helistar Cambodia, Helicopters Cambodia and Helitop Aviation.
Hilton has announced a growth strategy for India, aiming to expand its presence tenfold over the next decade, with a target of more than 300 hotels across the country. The plan includes the introduction of five additional Hilton brands into the Indian market.
The announcement was made during Hilton’s first brand showcase in India, held in Bengaluru on May 6, 2025. Under the theme Unlocking the Stay, the company presented 10 of its brands through displays and presentations at the event.
From left: Hilton’s Chris Nassetta and Alan Watts
Speaking to media, Chris Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton, expressed confidence in the potential of the Indian market. “I do not believe there is a market that has more growth opportunities than India. We believe that India is still an underpenetrated market compared to other parts of the world, offering terrific opportunities for everyone.”
Hilton currently operates 32 hotels in India, with a further 29 in development. Slohh by Roach, Curio Collection by Hilton, opening in 2025, will be the first Curio property in India, located in Bengaluru. The Den Bengaluru, LXR Hotels & Resorts, scheduled to open in 2026, will be the first LXR property in the country.
“When you consider the scale of our business globally, India is currently a relatively small market. Our global success has been driven by building a strong, diversified network of hotels that cater to all price points and we believe the same strategy will work in India. Our focus will be on expanding across Tier 1 cities and resort destinations, while also reaching into Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets,” added Nassetta.
Alongside Curio and LXR, Hilton plans to introduce Signia by Hilton, Waldorf Astoria, and Spark by Hilton to the Indian market. The company has signed a licensing agreement with Olive by Embassy to develop 150 Spark by Hilton properties across India over the next ten years.
Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton, noted the importance of infrastructure and domestic demand in enabling the company’s expansion.
“The infrastructure development is giving India real momentum in travel and tourism. As we expand our presence in India, we will focus on working with the right partners in the right locations,” Watts highlighted.
Etihad Airways and China Eastern Airlines launch joint venture with new Shanghai–Abu Dhabi route
Etihad and China Eastern enter joint venture
Etihad Airways and China Eastern Airlines have launched their joint venture (JV) with the arrival of China Eastern’s inaugural MU237 flight from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi on April 28, 2025.
The new route initially operates four times a week – on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Starting September 12, 2025, the service will increase to daily flights. Passengers will travel aboard an A330 aircraft, equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity.
Building upon the launch of the JV, Etihad Airways and China Eastern Airlines have also signed a new agreement for their respective loyalty programmes. Starting June 1, 2025, members of Etihad Guest and Eastern Miles programmes will be able to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ networks, offering enhanced value and seamless travel experiences for loyalty members.
Hong Kong Airlines
Hong Kong Airlines debuts Hong Kong-Hulunbuir service
Hong Kong Airlines has launched its inaugural flight from Hong Kong (HKG) to Hulunbuir (HLD) in Inner Mongolia. This new route offers a direct and efficient travel link between Hong Kong and Hulunbuir, strengthening connectivity between Hong Kong and cities along the Belt and Road initiative.
The Hong Kong-Hulunbuir flights operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with HX463 departing Hong Kong and HX462 returning from Hulunbuir on the same days.
Starting from June 5, 2025, an additional Thursday flight will be available.
Emirates and Philippine Airlines eye codeshare to boost Dubai–Philippines connectivity
Emirates expands network with new codeshare partnerships
Emirates has expanded its global network through a series of strategic partnerships, further enhancing connectivity and travel options for its passengers. Recently, the airline signed multiple agreements with Condor, Air Seychelles, and Philippine Airlines, strengthening its presence in Europe, the Caribbean, the Seychelles, and the Philippines. These new collaborations not only offer seamless travel connections but also improve services and convenience for customers across these regions.
Emirates and Condor have launched a reciprocal codeshare partnership ahead of the 2025 summer travel season, offering expanded travel options for both airlines’ customers. Emirates passengers can now access 11 new destinations in Europe and the Caribbean, including popular spots like Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza, and Cancun, via Condor’s hubs in Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and Hamburg. Condor travellers will benefit from enhanced connectivity to 13 destinations served by Emirates through Dubai, such as Bali, the Maldives, and Cape Town.
Emirates and Air Seychelles will work together to facilitate seamless connections for Emirates passengers on Air Seychelles flights between Mahe and Praslin Island. This agreement allows customers to book their entire itinerary on a single ticket, enjoy competitive fares, and benefit from a unified baggage policy for travel between the two islands. Emirates operates 14 weekly flights between Dubai and Mahe, with many travellers originating from France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and the UK.
Furthermore, Emirates and Philippine Airlines (PAL) have recently discussed expanding their partnership with a potential codeshare agreement. This would provide travellers with better connectivity between the Philippines and Dubai, offering a single ticket, competitive fares, and a streamlined baggage policy. Emirates and PAL first signed an interline agreement in March 2023, connecting passengers to ten domestic points in the Philippines and nine international destinations via Dubai.
Cathay Pacific launches non-stop service between Hong Kong and Dallas
Cathay Pacific adds Dallas to global network
Cathay Pacific celebrated the launch of its new non-stop service between Hong Kong and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on April 24, 2025. This marks the sixth new destination for the airline this year, with 15 new routes announced for 2025.
Cathay Pacific operates four weekly return flights between Hong Kong and Dallas using Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, featuring Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins.
The addition strengthens Cathay’s North America network and offers greater convenience for passengers.
Vietjet’s inaugural flight to Fukuoka received a festive water cannon salute
Vietjet launches flights to Japan, adds new China route
Vietjet has launched two new direct routes connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Nagoya and Fukuoka in Japan. The new services, which started on April 24 and 25, 2025, aim to improve travel options and strengthen cultural and economic ties in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Ho Chi Minh City-Nagoya route operates four times a week, while the Ho Chi Minh City-Fukuoka route runs three times a week. These additions bring the total number of Vietjet’s direct flights between Vietnam and Japan to 10.
Additionally, Vietjet has launched a daily Hanoi-Shanghai service, continuing its rapid expansion in China, which includes new routes to Beijing and Guangzhou.
Fresh travel experiences across Western Australia invite visitors to explore culture, nature and wellness in new, meaningful ways. From mindful rainforest walks and Indigenous-led coastal tours to scenic EV road trips and immersive art trails, these offerings highlight the region’s diverse landscapes and stories while embracing sustainability and connection.
Lodge Wadjemup is now open on Rottnest Island, with the final stage set for completion by July 2025. Visitors can also join Laura the Explorer’s guided cycling tours to discover the island’s history and hidden spots.
Discover Mandurah’s hidden Giants on a scenic cruise where art meets nature
At Perth Zoo, Zen in the Zoo offers a mindful two-hour experience that includes a rainforest walk and a beginner-friendly yoga session. In Broome, Mabu Buru Tours invites travellers to join a 4WD tag-along foraging experience led by Traditional Owners. Guests learn to collect bush foods, hear Dreamtime stories, and experience the Kimberley coast through Indigenous perspectives.
In Rockingham, the Moordiboordip Cultural Tour takes guests along the coastline of Noongar Country. Co-hosted by Hidden deTours and In Culture Tours, this guided walk weaves in traditional song, bush tucker, and storytelling.
Western Australia now boasts one of the longest electric vehicle networks in the country, with 110 charging points across 49 locations. Popular routes like the Best of Golden Outback, Margaret River, and Broome are now easier to explore sustainably.
Swan River cruises offer a laid-back way to enjoy Perth’s skyline, with options like Captain Cook Cruises’ return route between Perth and Fremantle, or the quieter, solar-powered Little Ferry Company between Elizabeth Quay and East Perth.
In Mandurah, Giants of Mandurah – a trail of whimsical sculptures by Thomas Dambo – is now complemented by year-round Mandurah Cruises. The sightseeing cruise combines storytelling and nature, offering a fun and imaginative day out for families.
The Northern Territory (NT) will host over 55 international and national business events across Darwin, Alice Springs, and Uluru in 2025.
Upcoming international conferences in Darwin include the 10th World Archaeological Congress (1,200 delegates, June 2025), and the World Federation of Neuroscience Nurses Quadrennial Congress (200 delegates, July 2025).
Darwin Harbour and Waterfront Precinct; photo by Tourism Australia and Tourism NT
Looking ahead, NT has also secured hosting rights for a number of global business events to be staged within the next seven years, succeeding against highly competitive bids from countries such as South Africa, Canada, Brazil and Malaysia.
These include the International Symposium on Fish Nutrition and Feeding (400 delegates, Alice Springs, 2026), and 25th Commonwealth Law Conference (over 800 delegates, Darwin, 2027), a result of collaboration between the Darwin Convention Centre and Charles Darwin University, with government support.
In 2032, the NT will also welcome over 1,000 delegates for the International Radiation Protection Congress.
Rebecca McCaig, director of Northern Territory Business Events, cited Darwin’s proximity to Asia and direct flights as key competitive advantages.
Increased aviation access to the city includes new direct international flights from Qantas, Indonesia AirAsia, and AirAsia Malaysia, complementing existing services by Singapore Airlines and Jetstar.
She added: “Our ongoing strategies have included identifying key industries and sectors where NT local expertise and strengths are an asset. Our close connections with these sectors have enabled us to undertake a highly targeted approach, alongside our NT industry partners, to showcase how the NT is ‘different in every sense for business events.”
In addition, new hotel developments in Darwin include the recently-opened 186-key Courtyard by Marriott Darwin, the upcoming 87-key voco Darwin Suites (late 2025), and a planned Darwin Convention Centre Hotel with 236 rooms.
Some 305 leading New Zealand tourism businesses have gathered in Rotorua this week to collectively win over regional and international travel trade buyers. The platform facilitating this destination showcase is TRENZ 2025, an annual travel trade event organised by Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), which plays a crucial role in marketing destination New Zealand to the world.
The 31st edition of TRENZ boasts 44 new tourism products as well as 20 first-time sellers.
TRENZ 2025 hosts a lively welcome at Te Puia, Rotorua; photos by Karen Yue
The programme kicked off on May 6 with host city fam tours, a TRENZ Talks conference discussing hot button issues, business meetings, and a lively welcome party at Te Puia, Rotorua. The latter is a premium attraction that takes visitors deep into New Zealand’s rich Maori arts and culture as well as Rotorua’s active geothermal geysers and kiwi conservation efforts.
Business matching sessions continue through May 7 and 8 at Energy Events Centre.
Event organisers said more than 16,000 15-minute buyer-and-seller meetings would take place during TRENZ 2025.
Rebecca Ingram, chief executive of TIA, said the four-day event would contribute about NZ$3 million (US$1.8 million) to the local economy.
A further economic impact report will be produced at the end of TRENZ 2025 to determine the value of business transactions. Ingram shared that at last year’s event, 14 per cent of exhibiting businesses expected to turn over more than NZ$1 million from business deals.
According to Tourism Satellite Account, tourism is the country’s second largest export earner, contributing NZ$16.9 billion to the economy for the year ending March 2024.
The industry aims to resume its position as New Zealand’s leading export earner alongside the dairy industry.
Total tourism expenditure for the year ending March 2024 was NZ$44.4 billion, up 14.6 per cent from 2023.
Tourism contributed 7.5 per cent of New Zealand’s GDP – directly and indirectly. This is a 6.9 per cent improvement over the previous year.
International tourism expenditure was up 59.9 per cent, reaching NZ$16.9 billion in the year ending March 2024, marking a return to levels similar to 2019, which was NZ$17.2 billion.
International tourism’s contribution to total exports of goods and services was 17.2 per cent, up from 11.2 per cent in 2024.
Lanson Place Personal Hotels and Residences has appointed Nils Rothbarth as general manager of Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila.
Bringing nearly 30 years of global hospitality experience, Rothbarth will lead the property’s strategic direction and operations, with a focus on delivering the brand’s personalised service and enhancing guest experience.
He previously served as cluster general manager for Fairmont Hotels and Safari Clubs Kenya, including Fairmont The Norfolk in Nairobi and Fairmont Mara Safari Club.
Virtuoso has promoted Úna O’Leary to vice president, global partnerships, where she will oversee the growth of the group’s preferred partner portfolio worldwide.
Based in Toronto, O’Leary’s appointment supports Virtuoso’s focus on global expansion and alignment across its nine operating regions.
Since joining as Virtuoso’s first general manager for Canada, she has helped establish the country as a key market, driving growth in member engagement and partnerships.
She will report to senior vice president Cory Hagopian and continue supporting the Canadian market during the search for her replacement.
Moxy Sydney Airport has appointed Sid Bhatia as its new general manager.
With more than 20 years of hospitality experience across Australia and New Zealand, Bhatia has held leadership roles including general manager at Vibe Hotel and cluster general manager for TFE Hotels in the Northern Territory.
Trip.com Group is reinforcing its commitment to the Middle East, reporting rapid regional growth, strategic partnerships, and soaring travel demand from Asian markets, just one year after opening its Dubai office.
Speaking to TTG Asia on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai, Boon Sian Chai, managing director and vice president, international markets, Trip.com Group, outlined the company’s aggressive expansion strategy in the region. “Since we opened our Dubai office last year, we have seen exceptional growth. Since then, in addition to Dubai, Trip.com has also launched offices in Riyadh and Jeddah and plans to open one in Egypt later this year.”
Chai: a growing appetite among Asian travellers for cultural, historical and experiential tourism in the Kingdom; photo by Rohit Kaul
The company is also preparing to expand its point-of-sale operations to Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar. The company reported that Dubai continues to be the top destination in the GCC but cities in Saudi Arabia, particularly religious destinations for Umrah are experiencing “triple-digit growth”. A significant influx of travellers from Indonesia and Malaysia are contributing to this surge.
“We are also noticing a growing appetite among Asian travellers for cultural, historical and experiential tourism in the Kingdom,” shared Chai. Trip.com Group is also expanding its BOSS Live sessions by featuring Middle Eastern destinations.
Meanwhile, Trip.com has formed several regional partnerships to enhance travel options and increase destination visibility. New agreements include strategic alliances with Saudia, Flynas, and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Visit Oman to boost tourism to the sultanate. It also signed an MoU with Saudi Arabia’s BAAN Holding Group at ATM 2025.
Beyond attracting Asian travellers into the region, Trip.com also sees rising outbound travel demand from the Middle East to destinations such as Europe, South-east Asia and mainland China. The company has localised its platforms in Arabic across the region to support this growth and enhance user experience.
He previously served as cluster general manager for Fairmont Hotels and Safari Clubs Kenya, including Fairmont The Norfolk in Nairobi and Fairmont Mara Safari Club.
Since joining as Virtuoso’s first general manager for Canada, she has helped establish the country as a key market, driving growth in member engagement and partnerships.
With more than 20 years of hospitality experience across Australia and New Zealand, Bhatia has held leadership roles including general manager at Vibe Hotel and cluster general manager for TFE Hotels in the Northern Territory.
