Author: News Team
Several major online travel agencies have formed a coalition to advocate for the travel industry’s interests.Known as Online Travel UK, this group aims to work with governmental bodies to promote progressive, consumer-centric travel policies.OTA Coalition and ObjectivesIn a concerted effort to advocate for the travel industry’s interests, several major online travel agencies (OTAs) have united to form the Online Travel UK. This coalition is dedicated to promoting the considerable benefits the sector brings to both consumers and the broader economy. Its core objective is to engage with governmental bodies to create a progressive, consumer-focused travel policy framework.Among the prominent members…
Alicante Airport is facing disruption as a five-day strike by security staff begins, impacting operations.Jet2 has issued a warning to travellers, highlighting potential delays and advising adequate preparations.Strike Announcement and TimingJet2 has issued a warning regarding a five-day strike at Alicante Airport. This industrial action, which commenced today and is scheduled to continue until Sunday, involves security staff who play a crucial role in airport operations. The specific time slots expected to face the most congestion are 8.30am-9.30am and 6pm-7pm local time, both critical periods for flight departures and arrivals.The strike is anticipated to lead to significant delays and congestion…
Dubai has witnessed an exceptional rise in international visitors, marking a 9% increase in just the first half of the year.This impressive growth, reaching 9.31 million visitors, signifies the robust momentum of the city’s tourism sector.Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has successfully implemented targeted campaigns across 80 markets, collaborating with over 3,000 global partners. These strategic moves have highlighted Dubai’s unique offerings and its dynamic appeal. Such coordinated efforts are pivotal in maintaining Dubai’s standing as a leading travel destination.Kazim emphasizes the significance of strong partnerships between the public and private sectors. Such alliances are crucial for driving…
Rex Airlines, Australia’s third-largest airline, has announced its entry into administration, grounding its domestic fleet. Passengers are facing disruptions.In light of the situation, Australia’s aviation competitors are stepping up to provide alternative travel solutions and mitigate passenger inconvenience.Rex Airlines Enters AdministrationAustralia’s third-largest airline, Rex Airlines, has entered administration, resulting in significant operational changes. All domestic flights have been suspended, with the airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft grounded. Despite these cancellations, regional flights operated by Saab 340 turboprops remain unaffected as administrators at Ernst & Young oversee operations. This move follows a challenging period for Rex, exacerbated by the pandemic…
In a move addressing both stability and growth, Seabourn has confirmed that the merging of its sales forces with Holland America Line in North America and Australia will not impact its UK trade operations. This announcement alleviates potential concerns regarding market support and strategic focus in the region.The confirmation by Seabourn underscores its commitment to providing continuous and stable service to its partners across the UK. With changes primarily affecting North America and Australia, Seabourn reassures that its UK operations remain consistent, with no anticipated disruptions.Seabourn has assured its UK partners that the recent merging of its sales forces with…
P&O Cruises has announced the appointment of Stuart Allison as their new Chief Commercial Officer.Allison, transitioning from his role at Princess Cruises, is set to commence his duties in mid-October, signalling a strategic move for P&O Cruises.Background and ExperienceStuart Allison joins P&O Cruises with a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Senior Vice-President for Asia Pacific, UK, and Europe at Princess Cruises in Australia. This extensive background equips him with the necessary skills to drive growth and execute strategic initiatives at P&O Cruises.Role and ResponsibilitiesAs Chief Commercial Officer, Allison will be responsible for implementing P&O Cruises’ long-term strategy…
The merger between Amex GBT and CWT, two major players in the corporate travel sector, has raised significant concerns among regulatory bodies.The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has highlighted potential negative impacts on pricing, service quality, and innovation within the industry.Regulatory ConcernsThe Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has formally approached Amex GBT and CWT, urging them to offer solutions to address concerns surrounding their planned merger. The watchdog emphasised that the merger could lead to worsened quality of service, higher prices, and reduced innovation for Global Multinational (GMN) business travel customers.According to the CMA, the merger between the world’s largest…
P&O Cruises has made a strategic decision by appointing Stuart Allison as its first Chief Commercial Officer to drive growth in the UK cruise market.Allison’s extensive experience and leadership in international markets bode well for P&O Cruises as it seeks to leverage untapped potential and broaden its appeal among UK holidaymakers.Carnival Corporation has set a clear path for expansion by appointing Stuart Allison as Chief Commercial Officer of P&O Cruises. This move aligns with the brand’s ambition to strengthen its commercial foothold in the burgeoning UK cruise sector, reflecting a broader strategy to harness the market’s untapped potential. Allison will…
The Advantage Travel Partnership is set to host its largest cruise conference to date, from 24th to 27th October.The event will take place on the Ambassador Cruise Line’s ship, Ambience, sailing to Amsterdam and will feature prominent industry leaders.More than 180 delegates are anticipated at this milestone event. Attendees will include senior figures such as Ambassador Chief Executive Christian Verhounig, Royal Caribbean International’s UK and Ireland Senior Sales Director Aaron Langford, and Princess Cruises’ UK and Europe Vice President Eithne Williamson.The conference promises a robust business content programme. Topics will span all sectors of the cruise industry, with a significant…
Home-based travel agents are becoming increasingly important within the travel industry, driving significant business.Suppliers are employing new strategies to engage with these agents and ensure they remain connected and well-informed.Innovative Engagement MethodsSuppliers are shifting from traditional face-to-face visits to new, creative methods to engage with home-based agents. These include offering appointments in local coffee shops, hosting Zoom updates, and company-wide webinars.Some companies are also appointing business development managers (BDMs) specifically focused on homeworkers to better tailor their support and communication strategies.Gold Medal’s Pioneering ApproachGold Medal was the first tour operator to hire a dedicated homeworker account manager back in October…