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Asia/Singapore Sunday, 14th December 2025
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Attention to travel trends, partnerships crucial for successful tourism marketing

By Karen Yue
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  • Travel marketers and communicators are paying attention to sustainability, wellness, and quality experiences when building their products and messaging
  • Destinations and tourism brands should play up existing charms through creative and mindful marketing and communications
  • Partnerships between destinations and travel specialists will be especially precious for building awareness and bookings

Travel and tourism marketers are keeping many travel trends and growing traveller preferences in mind as they shape their business and branding strategy for the year ahead.

Benoit Badufle, founder of Horus Development & Consulting, which is engaged to market destinations like Monaco and Brisbane in Asia, told TTG Asia that recent interactions with clients and travel advisors across Asia have underscored several travel trends that command attention in 2025. They include experiential luxury, wellness, sustainability, personalised experiences, multi-generational travel, and bleisure travel.

Travel and tourism marketers are shaping their products, services and messages to respond to travellers’ quest for sustainability, wellness, and local experiences

Besides attention to these travel trends, destinations must also focus on personalisation and digital engagement. He said these areas of focus are crucial, as “travellers from Greater China, South-east Asia, and South Korea are increasingly seeking authentic journeys that align with their values and aspirations”.

Similar observations are also made by Joleena Seah, managing director for South-east Asia with GHC Asia, one of the region’s most recognised PR specialists for hospitality and lifestyle brands.

“From luxury hospitality to cruises, almost every client had similar iterations of these three themes: sustainability, wellness, and locally immersive guest experiences. It’s evident that these words are no longer considered as trends, but an essential element of the guest journey towards living well,” Seah told TTG Asia.

Seah’s participation in Further East 2024 in November also brought home a realisation that luxury travellers are choosing to go “completely off the grid”, creating demand for secluded and private travel experiences that are known to a privileged few.

“This is aligned with recent reports on the growing demand for quiet luxury in high fashion brands – affluent travellers want bespoke experiences that only they can enjoy. Keywords like private islands, private charters, and complete buy-outs were repeated quite often during Further East this year,” Seah elaborated.

She added: “The desire to go off the beaten path also applies to growing demand for conquering extreme frontiers of tourism. More people are now investing huge sums of money for once-in-a-lifetime experiences, like expeditions to Antarctica, Amazon River quests, and even space travel. I’m very excited about the PR opportunities that innovative brands will offer in 2025!”

Play up strengths
To respond to these trending travel motivations, destinations should identify and enhance available charms and convey these points of appeal through creative marketing and communications.

Monaco, as an example, is a destination that is attuned to these critical considerations while its tourism infrastructure and facilities are well positioned to cater to new travel motivations. Monaco has established spas, wellness retreats, and nature-driven experiences while the country’s leadership has long been prioritising sustainability, inspired by Prince Albert II of Monaco’s far-sighted environmental vision spelt out two decades ago. The destination is also ready to welcome multi-generational travel groups and bleisure guests, thanks to its variety of leisure attractions and business facilities.

While Monaco is no stranger to creating exclusive and unforgettable moments for visitors, Badufle revealed plans to collaborate with travel influencers in 2025 to amplify its promise of experiential luxury.

To be successful in the new year, Seah encourages brands to “manifest the ‘travel is a force for good’ message in a holistic way by curating experiences that benefit the environment, local community, and self-care for the traveller”.

She said: “Brands which can demonstrate their appreciation for genuinely mindful and healthy travel experiences will do well in the years ahead.”

Leverage AI
Both Badufle and Seah acknowledge the use of AI applications in their work across sales, marketing, and communications.

Badufle believes that “incorporating AI-driven personalisation, interactive virtual tours, and mobile-friendly campaigns can enhance engagement”, especially in a region populated by tech-savvy consumers.

He said: “Monaco Tourism Board is currently working on an entirely new version of its website, which will integrate such tools, and we will continue to leverage influencers and digital campaigns on platforms like WeChat, Instagram and TikTok to capture international attention.

“Strengthening Monaco’s digital presence is also essential. With AI-driven travel planning and social media platforms like WeChat and TikTok influencing decisions, Monaco is now putting more emphasis on innovative strategies such as virtual tours, personalised content, and seamless booking systems to engage travellers effectively.”

In the space of public relations, generative AI can create visual assets like videos and images within minutes, saving communications practitioners precious time so that more effort could be directed to strategy, ideation and raising the quality of work, reflected Seah.

Go together to go further
With travellers expected to add less crowded and lesser-known destinations to their 2025 holiday itinerary, Expedia Group’s chief commercial officer, Greg Schulze, told TTG Asia that partnerships between destinations and travel specialists will be especially precious for building awareness and bookings.

“We at Expedia Group have to think about how we can help travellers discover secondary and tertiary destinations, perhaps by building new experiences into our product range or working with destinations to promote their cities and regions to our customers,” said Schulze.

One of such partnerships is with Australia, where Expedia Group works with Tourism Australia and several states in the country to help travellers discover more of what the country and its different destinations can offer.

Expedia Group also has a campaign to drive more tourism traffic to Fukuoka, Japan.

“Nearly every campaign that Expedia Group runs for destinations has resulted in incremental bookings. Some of the outcomes are simply discovery – we educate travellers about their options so that they can make the right decisions,” he added.

South Korea’s Gyeongnam province intensifies tourism marketing, plays up wellness advantage

By Audrey Ng
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Tourism authorities at South Korea’s Gyeongnam province are working to raise the region’s profile among travellers, playing up the many natural attractions and cultural sites through targeted marketing strategies to attract first-comers as well as repeat visitors.

Kim Yong-man, director, Gyeongsangnam-do Tourism Policy Division, said: “Gyeongnam has high potential for growth in the tourism industry. We are confident that if tourists experience the beauty of the province’s many areas, they will want to revisit.”

Suseonsa Temple offers healing experiences for travellers wanting rejuvenating holidays

Gyeongnam comprises 18 cities and counties, and is home to an abundance of nature, with many coastal areas and national parks, thousand-year-old temples and historical relics. Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities throughout the year, such as trekking in the Jirisan National Park, island trekking, yacht tours, and surfing.

“Additionally, Gyeongnam hosts seasonal flower festivals in the spring and summer, featuring cherry blossoms, azaleas, and hydrangeas, while the autumn months bring breathtaking foliage,” he added.

The Gyeongnam government is focusing on four main marketing strategies – specialised tourism products, on-site marketing, incentive grants to travel agencies, and promotion through its own website and social media channels that are run in English, Japanese and Chinese.

At the same time, the province is hoping to capitalise on its many wellness destinations to attract travellers searching for rest and rejuvenation. Korean Tourism Organization has identified seven wellness destinations in Gyeongnam alone, namely the Donguibogam Village in Sancheong, Sky-lake in Geochang, Hanwha Belvedere in Geoje, Napoli farm in Tongyeong, Odo-san Healing Forest in Hapcheon, Anti-Aging Healing Land in Geochang, and Sup-ae-seo in Yangsan.

The province itself has selected four additional sites – Hwangmaesan National Park in Hapcheon, Worasan Forest in Jinju, Natural Recreation Forest in Geoje, and Namsa Yedamchon in Sancheong.

These destinations offer programmes featuring traditional medicine, healing, meditation, and nature and forest therapy.

Notably, Donguibogam Village, South Korea’s first herbal medicine-themed park at the foot of the Wangsan, is a popular spot for healing tours, and provides educational and interactive experiences.

There are also temples, such as Suseonsa Temple, that offer stay programmes and venues that offer healing experiences.

“Gyeongsangnam-do boasts numerous exceptional wellness tourism sites, offering visitors the opportunity to relax both physically and mentally while enjoying the province’s stunning natural landscapes,” said Kim.

By 2025, Gyeongnam Province hopes to attract 400,000 tourists, twice as many as the 200,000 it received in 2023.

As Gimhae International Airport is the most direct way to reach Gyeongnam, the office is focusing on source markets that have direct flights, such as Japan and China.

Love for China holidays blossoms among Singapore travellers this year-end

By Karen Yue
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Tour bookings and travel searches for China out of Singapore are surging, as travellers gain new-found love and interest in exploring the middle kingdom.

According to Hilton’s 2025 Trends Report, China ranks among the top favourites for Singapore travellers this holiday season.

The Lux Collective’s properties on China’s Tea Horse Road ancient trade route are especially popular with guests from Singapore; Lux* Tea Horse Road Benzilan in Yunnan province pictured

Based on search data from Singapore-based travellers for the December 21 to January 3 holiday period, Hilton’s research found a significant surge in interest for travel to China, with Beijing seeing a 48 per cent rise in interest compared to a year ago, Shanghai up 81 per cent, and Guangzhou up 87 per cent increase.

The report stated that 23 per cent of Singapore’s Generation Alpha and Generation Z cited strong interest in China.

Over at Chan Brothers Travel, one of Singapore’s leading outbound travel agencies, travellers’ interest has translated into firm business. According to Jeremiah Wong, spokesperson for Chan Brothers Travel, bookings at press time for year-end tours to China in November and December 2024 have nearly tripled compared to the same period last year.

These bookings are for group tours, which the agency excels in, as well as free-and-easy packages, private tours, and corporate trips.

Wong told TTG Asia that “demand for travel to China is surging”, adding that his customers are attracted by China’s “increasing visibility of its vibrant offerings popularised on social media”.

He noted that “each region offers distinct attractions tailored to diverse traveller interests”, but pointed out that Chongqing, Chengdu, Beijing, and Shanghai in particular are hot.

“(These cities are) captivating travellers of all ages with their blend of visually stunning landscapes and vibrant urban experiences, all easily accessible on our thematic duo-city tours,” said Wong.

“We are also observing an uptick in interest from younger travellers looking to immerse in China’s rich heritage, such as in the ancient capital of  Xi’an. Off-the-beaten-path locales such as Xinjiang, Tibet, and Yunnan are also top of travellers’ bucket list,” he added.

To cater to family groups this year-end, Chan Brothers Travel created the Fab Fam Fun series, which offers snow play and skiing adventures. These have been selling well, remarked Wong.

Singapore’s strong market potential for China is also benefitting The Lux Collective, which has nine luxury properties in operation across the middle kingdom, with the bulk located along the scenic and historically-rich Tea Horse Road ancient trade route. The group has six more hotels in the pipeline for China.

Nitesh Pandey, chief operating officer – Asia Pacific of The Lux Collective, told TTG Asia that the number of Singapore tour groups arriving in China has grown fivefold from June 2023 to June 2024, with the Yunnan-Guizhou-Sichuan route being the most popular.

“Yunnan is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations for Singaporeans, given its scenic natural beauty and rich local culture, where 25 of China’s 56 minor ethnic groups live in this region. Last month, we have welcomed a group of Singapore travellers visiting Lux* Tea Horse Road Benzilan and Lux* Tea Horse Road Shangri-La, followed by Lux* Tea Horse Road Lijiang for a leisure getaway,” said Pandey.

He said the company’s collection of hotels on the ancient trade route allows guests to “focus on the journey that is the destination in itself”. They are located in some of the world’s most majestic settings, complete with mountain peaks, lush valleys and deep gorges.

“They are perfect for travellers who wish to explore learn more about history and culture while have a holiday that is full of adventure and curiosity,” he said.

Indonesia’s higher VAT expected to impact hotel, restaurant earnings, staff retention

By Dhini Oktavianti
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The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA) has warned that the government’s plan to raise value added tax (VAT) would weaken consumers’ purchase and dent business earning, ultimately leading operators to shed manpower for sustainability.

This warning was expressed in response to the government’s plan to adjust VAT from 11 per cent to 12 per cent as of January 1, 2025, so as to feed the state budget.

Leaders of Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association urge the country’s government to reconsider its upward adjustment of VAT, which will come at a time of declining consumer spend

Sri Mulyani, minister of finance, said during parliament that the VAT increment was decided upon following thorough considerations.

However, hospitality industry players are of the opinion that the policy would come at a time of declining buying power.

IHRA has called for a reconsideration of the implementation.

Hariyadi Sukamdani, IHRA chairman, said the higher VAT would lead to lower sales, especially among the lower- and middle-class consumer segments.

This would deal an additional blow to Indonesia’s hospitality businesses, as the government is also planning to slash travel budget by 50 per cent in 2025.

“This could threaten the sustainability of hotel businesses,” said Hariyadi, adding that the impact would be especially felt in secondary destinations.

Government travel contributes significantly to the industry, as it makes up about 40 per cent of business for economy and mid-scale hotels. In destinations like Sulawesi and Papua, government travel can contribute up to 70 per cent of business.

Haryadi said destinations that enjoy a higher volume of international tourists, like Bali and Batam, might be better able to cope with the new VAT.

Once the VAT increment is in place, Haryadi said business would need to “implement survival mode through spending management or financing control”.

One of such measures would be to reduce daily manpower.

Salter Brothers Hospitality shows off new brand identity as it establishes new ambitions

By TTG Asia
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Australian luxury hospitality company, Salter Brothers Hospitality, whose portfolio includes Spicers Retreats and the soon-to-launch Ardour Hotels & Estates, has unveiled a new brand identity as it begins its next chapter in business.

The new brand identity emphasises the company’s dedication to quality, innovation, and a distinctly authentic experience, and is conveyed through a new logo, a new colour palette, and a revitalised brand story that underscores the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and fostering a vibrant and inclusive workplace.

Salter Brothers Hospitality has a new brand identity to mark the start of greater business ambitions; Spiciers Peak Lodge in Queensland pictured

“This rebrand is a pivotal moment for Salter Brothers Hospitality,” said Tash Tobias, CEO of Salter Brothers Hospitality. “We’re not just transforming our visual identity; we’re taking a bold step forward in defining our brand story and articulating our vision for the future. We’re deeply committed to and passionate about crafting experiences that leave an indelible impression on our guests and empowering our talented team to create a truly exceptional hospitality experience. We believe this new brand identity will allow us to connect with our audiences in a deeper, more meaningful way, and create lasting memories for our guests.”

The company is actively seeking new opportunities to expand its portfolio of properties, attracting new partners, and cementing its position as a leader in the Australian luxury hospitality sector.

This commitment to growth is evident in Salter Brothers’ recent acquisition of the Bannisters portfolio, a collection of luxury boutique hotels located in New South Wales. Bannisters’ three iconic properties officially came under Salter Brothers Hospitality’s management last week.

Chief development officer, Raphael Antonini added that the brand is unlike conventional hotel investment models, as it focuses on crafting experiences and not just operating properties.

Park Hyatt Bangkok: a luxurious escape in the city

By TTG Asia
0
Recognised as the Best Business Hotel in Thailand 2024, Park Hyatt Bangkok offers luxurious accommodation and facilities in the heart of the bustling capital
Park Hyatt Bangkok
Recognised as the Best Business Hotel in Thailand 2024, Park Hyatt Bangkok offers luxurious accommodation and facilities in the heart of the bustling capital

Located in the bustling heart of Bangkok, the Park Hyatt Bangkok is one of the top tier hotels that offers luxurious accommodations and facilities, including meeting spaces and restaurants.

It has been honoured as the Best Business Hotel in Thailand 2024 in the <what awards?>, a testament to its exceptional blend of luxury and functionality, a testament to the hotel’s commitment to providing quality service and hospitality to its guests. 

Prime location 

Strategically situated in luxury shopping mall Central Embassy, which faces Wireless Road in Bangkok’s prestigious district, Park Hyatt Bangkok enjoys direct connection to the Ploenchit BTS Skytrain station, ensuring seamless travel for guests to the city’s key commercial and cultural landmarks. 

Its integration within the shopping mall provides guests with immediate access to high-end retail outlets, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues, enhancing both business and leisure experiences. 

Versatile meeting spaces 

Park Hyatt Bangkok boasts a range of sophisticated event spaces with stylish interiors designed by award-winning interior designer firm Yabu Pushelberg. 

These versatile venues cater to various functions, from large corporate conferences to intimate board meetings. The hotel’s pillarless three-floor ballroom accommodates up to 600 guests. Each floor can be used for various purposes, including a foyer to receive guests, salon for small private events, bridal room, mezzanine level, and VIP room. 

The parlour room of The Apartment offers a chic, stylish room for meetings

On level 9 is The Apartment, a collection of five separate daylight-filled spaces ranging from 32 to 47m², that can accommodate anywhere from nine to 100 guests. Designed to look like residential spaces, there are spaces for a kitchen, foyer, and gallery, as well as a garden terrace that offers a 180-degree view of the city – all of which can be used for breakout sessions and interactive culinary experiences. 

These meeting spaces are also directly connected to the car park, providing seamless access for guests coming for meetings and events. 

Luxurious accommodations

The luxurious executive suite is one of the largest hotel rooms in Bangkok and is designed with modern comforts in mind

The hotel features 222 elegantly appointed guest rooms, including 32 premier suites, each offering unobstructed views of Bangkok’s skyline. Starting at 48m², these rooms are among the largest in the city. Designed to embody ‘liveable luxury,’ the interiors integrate calming natural materials accented with timeless Thai elements. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including a Nespresso coffee machine, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and luxurious bathrooms designed to function as private spas complete with Le Labo amenities, and feature separate soaking bathtubs and rain showers. 

Dining delights and facilities for work and leisure

Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of dining options, including La Marina, which serves Italian seafood, and Living Room, designed to look like an elevated living space for international and Thai comfort food.

On the top level is the Penthouse Grill + Bar, located across levels 34 to 36. The multi-level venue inspired by the bars and restaurants of New York City. Its open kitchen showcases a selection of premium meats and seafood cooked over organic charcoal, while the bar highlights cocktail artistry with electrifying beats set by a DJ and four musicians.  

Those who prefer their whiskies can head for the Blue Room on level 35. It is the first flagship scotch whiskey store in Southeast Asia and stocks an exclusive one in 10,000 Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch whiskey. 

Meanwhile, another bar on level 10 provides an intimate space for those who enjoy old world wines. It also offers a selection of draft beer that can be enjoyed in the indoor lounge or outdoor terrace.

Beyond its business-centric offerings, Park Hyatt Bangkok provides a range of facilities designed for relaxation and well-being, including a 40m saltwater infinity pool, a 24-hour fitness centre, and the tranquil Pañpuri Organic Spa.

By integrating luxury, convenience, and top-tier business amenities, Park Hyatt Bangkok solidifies its position as the premier choice for travellers in Thailand. Its strategic location, thoughtfully designed event spaces, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional facilities collectively contribute to an unparalleled hospitality experience in the heart of Bangkok.

Visit Park Hyatt Bangkok for more information.  

Oceania Cruises strengthens Asia sales team

By TTG Asia
0

Oceania Cruises is revitalising its sales team in Asia with the promotion of James Sitters as director of sales Asia Pacific, and the appointment of Fiona Chu and Dominic Tan as business development managers in Hong Kong and Singapore, respectively.

Chu began her career in sales and marketing, and has worked in the travel industry since 2022. She will spearhead business development in Hong Kong.

From left: James Sitters, Fiona Chu, and Dominic Tan; photo by Oceania Cruises

Managing business development in Singapore in his new role, Tan has over 15 years of business experience in South-east Asian markets. His career in travel comprises roles in WTS Travel & Tours, Asia-Euro Holidays, Five Stars Tours, M Asia Travel and Focal Travel.

As for Sitters, he has been with the ultra-premium line for nearly eight years, and was formerly director of sales Australia & New Zealand.

Virtuoso Luxe Report 2025 reveals the future of luxury travel

By TTG Asia
0

The 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report, based on insights from Virtuoso’s global network of luxury travel advisors, has revealed key trends for the year ahead. It shows a rising demand for transformative experiences, fuelled by adventure and a desire to build deeper connections with family, friends, and new destinations.

In 2025, Virtuoso clients will continue to prioritise exploration and personalised experiences, but with a growing focus on maximising value without compromising quality. While luxury travellers are still willing to spend more, they are increasingly mindful of rising costs and want to ensure their investment enhances their travels, making their relationship with a trusted travel advisor even more essential. Half of Virtuoso advisors surveyed expect a slight rise in travel demand next year, with 20% anticipating a significant increase. Additionally, 55% predict a modest uptick in spending per trip, while 28% expect prices to remain steady.

Portugal tops the destination list this year, thanks to its mild climate, cuisine, and scenery, especially in the Azores, pictured

The report identified five key trends highlighting how upscale globetrotters are establishing their influence in the travel-sphere for 2025.

1. Iceolated escapes
The “coolcation” trend shows no signs of slowing down, as more travellers request cold-weather destinations to escape the rising temperatures and avoid crowds. Antarctica, with its expanding cruise options and icy landscapes, has surged in popularity, climbing from fifth place last year to second among the top destinations to watch. Norway and Iceland also rank in the top five, reemphasising the trend toward northern European countries. This shift is largely driven by climate change, with nearly half of advisors reporting that their clients are altering their plans due to its effects. 78% of advisors say clients are opting for shoulder season or off-peak travel, while 76% say they now favour destinations with more moderate weather – up five points from last year.

2. Sailing solo
Travellers seeking freedom and flexibility have no hesitation going it alone, and cruising is proving to be a key trend among the solo set, with expedition, ocean and river cruises ranking among the top travel experiences for the coming year. Promoting personal growth and self-reliance, solo cruising allows individuals to navigate new adventures at their own pace, while also enjoying camaraderie with other passengers if desired. Solo cruising can provide a sense of security, as small-ship cruises allow excursions alongside like-minded companions in more intimate groups. Many cruise lines now cater to solo voyagers with special deals, dedicated hosts and fun social activities, making it easier to connect with fellow passengers.

3. Born to be mild
Adventure and wellness continue to be significant motivators, but in 2025, upscale travellers will pursue a harmonious balance of exhilaration and relaxation. While some venture to the extreme frontiers of Antarctica and Alaska, others are drawn to destinations like Morocco, Costa Rica and Bhutan, where physical activity meets holistic wellness practices. These “softer” adventures not only cultivate personal accomplishment but give travellers the chance to unwind and recharge, leaving them refreshed and ready for their next big adventure.

4. You tell me travel
Rather than sticking to well-worn bucket lists, travellers are finding new inspiration in documentaries, books, beloved films and recommendations from friends and family. TikTok continues to wield significant influence, showcasing lesser-known destinations through rapid-fire clips. However, nothing compares to the expertise of travel advisors, who note that clients are increasingly asking, “Where to next?” instead of naming a specific destination.

5. Palate and place
Culinary experiences have become a crucial element of luxury travel, and globetrotters are prioritising gastronomic discoveries that showcase the authentic local flavours and unique traditions of the places they visit. High-end visitors want meals that go beyond traditional dining, with an emphasis on experiences that immerse them in a destination’s culture through its cuisine – think food tours, hidden markets and one-of-a-kind eateries, like the best food trucks and street vendors. As a result, some advisors report spending weeks, even months, curating the ideal culinary immersion for their clients to savour.

Key findings from the 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report, as measured across more than 50 countries, revealed that Portugal has risen to top the list of destinations after finishing fourth last year. The destination’s appeal has broadened thanks to its mild climate, flavourful cuisine and stunning scenery, particularly in the Azores.

Meanwhile, classic favourites – Italy, France and Greece – continue to dominate as top international destinations. Paris holds steady as the preferred city, but Tokyo’s momentum has carried it into this year’s top five. Japan was also named a favourite among families, offering unique cultural experiences like ryokan stays and tea ceremonies, alongside family-friendly attractions such as the upcoming Universal Expo and the Studio Ghibli Museum.

Croatia remains popular, with Dubrovnik still drawing crowds, but there’s growing interest in lesser-known spots like inland Istria, especially among gourmet enthusiasts who are looking to go beyond the obvious to enjoy truffle hunting and wine tasting.

The report also shared the top aspects of sustainable tourism, namely wildlife conservation/interaction, avoiding over-touristed destinations, booking with companies that employ locals, giving back to/supporting local communities, and conservation of land and the environment.

View the full report here.

Qantas rolls out new distribution model to enhance service for agents and customers

By TTG Asia
0

Qantas has launched a new model for travel agents to access fares, continuing its investment in distribution capabilities to better serve the evolving needs of agents and customers.

Launching mid-next year, the new model aligns with a global drive towards adoption of NDC technology, offering significant benefits for both travel agents and their customers.

Qantas has launched a new model to enhance distribution capabilities for travel agents and customers

The new model will replace the existing Qantas Channel agreements with agency partners.

Starting July 1, 2025, agents will have multiple options to access Qantas content, including surcharge-free options and varying ticket surcharges. These options will include traditional indirect booking systems (EDIFACT), standard NDC, and premium NDC.

Qantas has worked closely with its partners on this distribution transformation to ensure the new model supports agents’ success, including key GDS and Certified Technology Partners.

Qantas executive vice president Asia, Nick McGlynn, said: “NDC will bring massive benefits to Qantas customers here in Asia with better pricing, more fare options and a personalised experience. For agents, NDC unlocks new revenue opportunities through dynamic commission offers as well as the tools to create tailored trips that go far beyond a basic fare and itinerary.”

Korean Air receives final approval from European Commission for Asiana merger

By TTG Asia
0

The European Commission (EC) has completed its review of Korean Air’s merger with Asiana Airlines on November 28, confirming that Korean Air has met all conditions set by the EU competition authority.

In February 2024, the EC granted conditional approval for the merger, with two key requirements: ensuring stable operations of a remedy carrier on four overlapping European routes (Barcelona, Frankfurt, Paris, and Rome) and the divestiture of Asiana’s freighter business.

Korean Air aims to conclude its merger with Asiana Airlines before the end of the year

Korean Air has designated T’way Air as the remedy carrier for the European routes, committing to provide operational support, including aircraft, flight crew, and maintenance services.

Additionally, Air Incheon has been approved as the purchaser of Asiana Airlines’ freighter business.

Korean Air has submitted the EC’s final approval to the US Department of Justice and plans to complete the transaction by end-December this year.

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