The recovery of tourism in Lapland will benefit from new easyJet’s international routes.Italy is a significant market for Lapland’s Christmas season.Earlier, easyJet launched a route from London Gatwick to Rovaniemi in 2018. Swiss low-cost airline easyJet has announced two weekly flights (Wednesday, Sunday) from Milan, Italy to Rovaniemi, Finland, starting from 19th of December 2021. The winter route will offer flights till 9th of January 2022.  Earlier, easyJet launched a route from London Gatwick to Rovaniemi in 2018. “We are truly pleased for the newly announced route by easyJet. These new connections opened for high demand state, just how interesting Rovaniemi and Lapland are as magical winter destinations. Italy is a significant market for our Christmas season,” states Sanna Kärkkäinen the Managing Director of Visit Rovaniemi. The recovery of tourism in Lapland will benefit from these newly opened routes, Kärkkäinen sums up. Visit Rovaniemi previously announced a new flight route opening by Air France, consisting of two weekly flights starting from 4th of December 2021, offering flights till 5th of March 2022. Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, in northern Finland. The city is known for being the “official” home town of Santa Claus, and for viewing the Northern Lights.  EasyJet plc, styled as easyJet, is a British multinational low-cost airline group headquartered at London Luton Airport. It operates domestic and international scheduled services on over 1,000 routes in more than 30 countries via its affiliate airlines EasyJet UK, EasyJet Switzerland, and EasyJet Europe.

Southwest does not condone Employees sharing their personal political opinions while on the job serving customers.Some called on the Federal Aviation Administration to get involved and check the pilot’s mental health.The airline also had its fair share of criticism from conservatives, for allegedly “cowering to the left-wing mob.” A viral phrase used to insult US President Joe Biden has triggered an internal investigation by the Southwest Airlines. Dallas-based carrier announced that it has launched an internal probe after one of its pilots signed off with a ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ phrase though the loudspeaker. “Southwest does not condone Employees sharing their personal political opinions while on the job serving our Customers, and one Employee’s individual perspective should not be interpreted as the viewpoint of Southwest and its collective 54,000 Employees,” Southwest Airlines said in a statement yesterday. The controversy was caused by reports that a pilot on a Southwest Airlines flight from Houston, Texas to Albuquerque, New Mexico on Friday said, ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ though the loudspeaker – a recent right-wing conservative meme that has become code for obscenity directed at current Democratic US President Joe Biden. According to AP reporter Colleen Long, who happened to be on that flight, she was almost removed after trying to ask the pilot about using the phrase.  The airline’s seemingly feeble response to the incident had many calling for the pilot to be publicly identified and fired, while others called for boycotts of the airline as a whole. Some went as far as to compare voicing anti-Joe Biden remarks to declaring allegiance with terrorists. Southwest’s promise to address the situation directly with the employee in question, following an internal probe, triggered even more backlash and demands for a much stronger statement and concrete action. Some even called on the Federal Aviation Administration to get involved and check the pilot’s mental health. Southwest Airline also had its fair share of criticism from conservatives, for allegedly “cowering to the left-wing mob.”

Qatar Airways has moved its services to Moscow from Domodedovo Airport to Sheremetyevo International Airport.The move to Sheremetyevo Airport sees the debut of Qatar Airways’ QSuite on the route.Qatar Airways continues to rebuild its network, which currently stands at over 140 destinations. Qatar Airways’ first flight to Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) touched down on October 31, 2021. The airline has moved its services to Moscow from Domodedovo Airport to Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) and is now operating its multi-award winning Qsuite in Business Class on the route. QSuite is the industry’s first-ever double bed in Business Class, featuring privacy panels that stow away, allowing passengers in adjoining seats to create their own private room, a first of its kind in the industry. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “As the Qsuite makes its debut on our Moscow route, passengers can look forward to an unforgettable journey in the World’s Best Business Class, to many destinations. “With our growing network, we can offer passengers from Sheremetyevo seamless connectivity to popular destinations in Asia, Africa, Middle East and the Americas, and top sunshine getaways like Maldives, Seychelles and Zanzibar via the ‘Best Airport in the World 2021’, Hamad International Airport (HIA).” Mikhail Vasilenko, Director General of JSC Sheremetyevo International Airport, said: “Sheremetyevo International Airport heartily welcomes Qatar Airways, and we especially value the highest levels of service and legendary hospitality provided by the airline to its customers. Travellers will definitely appreciate this new route from Moscow to Doha and the opportunity to travel to more than 140 remarkable destinations around the world. In turn, Sheremetyevo International Airport is ready to provide Qatar Airways’ passengers with the most modern amenities, world-class service at 5-star Skytrax level, and the best quality of customer care to be found among Europe’s largest airports.” Qatar Airways continues to rebuild its network, which currently stands at over 140 destinations. From October 6, Russia officially entered the green list for travelling to visit Qatar after the Sputnik V vaccine was accepted by the Qatari Ministry of Health.

A mandatory vaccination policy requires all active airline employees to be fully vaccinated.Employees will be strongly encouraged to wear a face mask whenever outside of their personal workspaces or when interacting with others.All visitors and anyone entering company buildings are required to be fully vaccinated. Air Canada said today that it has enacted a Return to the Workplace Plan to transition employees working remotely safely back into the workplace, beginning November 15. The plan, developed in compliance with Public Health Agency of Canada guidelines, uses a hybrid approach combining on-site and remote work options to give employees flexibility and confidence as they return to their pre-pandemic work routines. “While frontline employees at Air Canada have attended work running the operation throughout the pandemic, for which I thank and commend them, since March 2020 a significant number have worked remotely pursuant to Federal Public Health directives. Now, with caseloads falling nationally, Air Canada‘s mandatory workplace vaccination policy, and other company health measures, it is possible for people to begin a structured return to the office and safely resume a more normal work life. Our plan takes a balanced approach, meeting the needs of those eager to work again in-person with their colleagues and others who may prefer to continue, for personal or professional reasons, working remotely certain days of the week,” said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada. “For individuals, companies or any organization to achieve their full potential requires personal connections and interactions. This makes the return of Canadians to the workplace a necessary step in the recovery of our society and economy from the pandemic’s isolating effects. As a country, we can and must begin to resume our pre-pandemic routines, especially as our high vaccination rates, effective public health policies and the sacrifices made by all of us to beat COVID-19 have created the conditions to do so safely.” Beginning November 15, those Air Canada employees who are presently working off-site will start a graduated return to the workplace, with options to continue working set days remotely. To ensure the health and safety of employees in the workplace: A mandatory vaccination policy requires all active employees to be fully vaccinated;All visitors and anyone entering company buildings are required to be fully vaccinated;Employees will be strongly encouraged to wear a face mask whenever outside of their personal workspaces or when interacting with others;Physical distancing is required where practical;Home screening programs continue to be offered and their use encouraged;Hand sanitizer and disinfection products will continue to be readily available.

Tonga’s government will announce on Monday whether the island will be placed under a national lockdown.There was one COVID-19 case among 215 passengers who arrived from the city of Christchurch.About 31 percent of Tonga’s population are fully vaccinated and 48 percent have had at least one dose. Tongan officials announced that Tonga is no longer coronavirus-free after a passenger from a flight from Christchurch, New Zealand tested positive for COVID-19 virus. This is the first COVID-19 infection recorded in the Polynesian kingdom since the beginning of the global coronavirus pandemic. In today’s radio address, Tonga’s Prime Minister Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa confirmed that there was one COVID-19 case among 215 passengers who arrived from the city of Christchurch. Tu’i’onetoa said the government was planning to make an announcement on Monday on whether a national lockdown will be imposed. Meanwhile, the prime minister demanded all Tongans abide by physical distancing and to follow coronavirus-related regulations. According to Tonga‘s health ministry’s chief executive Siale ‘Akau’ola, the health workers, police and the entire staff working at the Fua’amotu airport when the Christchurch flight arrived were placed under quarantine. He added that all those working near the flight had been vaccinated. Christchurch flight passengers included seasonal workers and members of Tonga’s Olympic team. Tonga is located northeast of New Zealand, and is home to about 106,000 people. About 31% of Tongans are fully vaccinated and 48% have had at least one dose, according to research group Our World in Data. Tonga is among the few remaining nations in the world that have avoided outbreaks of COVID-19. Like many of its neighbors, Tonga’s isolation has helped keep it safe but it faces big challenges should the virus take hold due to its under-resourced health system. The nearby nation of Fiji avoided significant outbreaks until April, when the Delta variant of the coronavirus ripped through the island chain, infecting more than 50,000 people and killing at least 673.

The COVID Protect program is part of the Gokongwei Group’s initiative for all its business units.Cebu Pacific’s entire workforce is now 98 percent fully vaccinated. Cebu Pacific has achieved a 7-star safety rating from airlineratings.com for its COVID-19 compliance.  The Philippines’ largest airline, Cebu Pacific, has attained 100% vaccination rate for its active flying crew through its very own employee vaccination program, COVID Protect, and various partnerships with LGUs in the country.   CEB celebrates this milestone as scheduled, and in time for the expected increase in passengers in the coming months, following the easing of travel restrictions across the Philippines. “We are very pleased to share this news with everyone as we prepare to ramp-up our domestic network to cater to the pent-up travel demand. Cebu Pacific continues to boost its safety protocols and we know having a fully vaccinated crew will strengthen the trust and confidence of the public in air travel,” said Felix Lopez, Vice President for People Department at Cebu Pacific. The COVID Protect program is part of the Gokongwei Group‘s initiative for all its business units. Through this, CEB employees received free inoculation for themselves and their dependents, as well as third-party workers, such as check-in agents and bag handlers. Apart from this conglomerate-led program, CEB also worked hand-in-hand with various local government units these past months to ensure its employees will be inoculated with whatever vaccine is available, at the earliest time possible.   “We commend our pilots and crew for voluntarily getting vaccinated, not only to protect themselves and their families, but even the passengers they fly with. We also express our gratitude to our leaders at the Gokongwei Group for spearheading the vaccination program, and of course, our government partners for recognizing the transport sector as a priority group,” said Capt. Sam Avila, Vice President for Flight Operations at Cebu Pacific. Cebu Pacific’s entire workforce is now 98% fully vaccinated. As the first airline partner of the Ingat-Angat initiative, and as a major supporter in nation-building, CEB has been actively transporting vaccines from abroad to the Philippines, and across the country since March this year. To date, the airline has safely airlifted 16.5 million vaccine doses from China to the Philippines, and close to 25 million vaccine doses across 28 domestic destinations. CEB has achieved a 7-star safety rating from airlineratings.com for its COVID-19 compliance. It continues to implement a multi-layered approach to safety as it endeavors to restore the public’s trust in air travel. CEB operates the widest domestic network in the Philippines covering 32 destinations, on top of its eight (8) international destinations. Its 73-strong fleet, one of the youngest in the world, includes two (2) dedicated ATR freighters and one (1) A330 freighter.

Total spending by out-of-state visitors who came to Hawaii in September 2021 was $1.05 billion.Prior to the global COVID-19 pandemic and Hawaii’s quarantine requirements, Hawaii achieved record-level visitor expenditures and arrivals in 2019 and in the first two months of 2020. A total of 505,861 visitors arrived by air service to the Hawaiian Islands in September 2021, primarily from the U.S. West and U.S. East.  According to preliminary visitor statistics released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), total spending by visitors who came to Hawaii in September 2021 was $1.05 billion. Prior to the global COVID-19 pandemic and Hawaii’s quarantine requirements for travelers, the State of Hawaii achieved record-level visitor expenditures and arrivals in 2019 and in the first two months of 2020. Comparative September 2020 visitor spending statistics were not available as the Departure Survey could not be conducted last September due to COVID-19 restrictions. September 2021 visitor spending was lower than the $1.25 billion (-15.4%) reported for September 2019. A total of 505,861 visitors arrived by air service to the Hawaiian Islands in September 2021, primarily from the U.S. West and U.S. East. In comparison, only 18,409 visitors (+2,647.8%) arrived by air in September 2020 and 736,155 visitors (-31.3%) arrived by air and by cruise ships in September 2019.  In September 2021, passengers arriving from out-of-state could bypass the State’s mandatory 10-day self-quarantine if they were fully vaccinated in the United States or with a valid negative COVID-19 NAAT test result from a Trusted Testing Partner prior to their departure through the Safe Travels program. On August 23, 2021, Hawaii Governor David Ige urged travelers to curtail non-essential travel until the end of October 2021 due to a surge in Delta variant cases that has overburdened the state’s health care facilities and resources. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continued to enforce restrictions on cruise ships through a “Conditional Sail Order”, a phased approach for the resumption of passenger cruises to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19 onboard. The average daily census was 154,355 visitors in September 2021, compared to 20,472 in September 2020, versus 206,169 in September 2019.

Holiday travelers now have more options to reconnect with family or take a Hawaii vacation.Hawaiian Airlines is adding new nonstop flights between the islands and the US West Coast.Guests traveling between HNL and SEA will enjoy the roominess and comfort of Hawaiian’s wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft. Hawaiian Airlines is offering holiday travelers more options to reconnect with family or take a Hawaii vacation with additional nonstop flights between the islands and the US West Coast. To meet anticipated holiday demand, Hawaiian Airlines is expanding once-daily service between Honolulu (HNL) and Seattle (SEA) and San Francisco (SFO), as well as between Kahului, Maui (OGG) and Los Angeles (LAX), with the following additional flights: Flight No.RouteHoliday Schedule*Date of Holiday AdditionsEst. DepartureTimeEst. ArrivalTimeHA 27SEA-HNL2 daily flights19-Nov-21 to 21-Nov-2127-Nov-21 to 29-Nov-2117-Dec-21 to 5-Jan-228:0012:15HA 28HNL-SEA2 daily flights18-Nov-21 to 20-Nov-2126-Nov-21 to 28-Nov-2116-Dec-21 to 4-Jan-2221:455:30HA 55LAX-OGG2 daily flights19-Nov-21 to 21-Nov-2127-Nov-21 to 29-Nov-2117-Dec-21 to 5-Jan-2212:0515:45HA 56OGG-LAX2 daily flights18-Nov-21 to 20-Nov-2126-Nov-21 to 28-Nov-2116-Dec-21 to 4-Jan-2222:005:00HA 54HNL-SFO1 daily flight Mon-Thur2 daily flights Fri-Sun18-Dec-21 to 9-Jan-2213:1520:30HA 53SFO-HNL1 daily flight Tue-Fri2 daily flights Sat-Mon19-Dec-21 to 10-Jan-228:0011:45* All listed routes operate once-daily before the holiday additions Guests traveling between HNL and SEA will enjoy the roominess and comfort of Hawaiian’s wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft. Hawaiian Airlines will use its quiet and fuel-efficient narrow-body Airbus A321neo to operate the additional flights between LAX and OGG and HNL and SFO. All guests traveling to the Hawaiian Islands must comply with the state of Hawaii’s Safe Travels program requirements.

United Airlines announces five new flights from four US cities to London Heathrow Airport.United Airlines to offer 22 flights per day to London, United Kingdom by Spring of 2022.Once service begins, United will offer more flights between New York City and London than any other U.S. carrier. United Airlines today announced it is adding five new flights to London’s Heathrow Airport, including two more flights from New York/Newark, additional trips from both Denver and San Francisco, as well as an all-new direct flight from Boston. The new service begins in March of 2022 and with these additions, United will be the only U.S. carrier to offer nonstop service between the nation’s top seven business markets and London. United will offer 22 flights per day from the U.S. to London, and more flights between New York City and London than any other U.S. carrier. London was the most booked international destination for United’s business customers in October, and the airline expects this trend to continue into 2022. “For nearly 30 years, United has provided a critical link between the U.S. and London, maintaining service throughout the pandemic and strategically growing our schedule to keep our customers in these key global business centers connected,” said Patrick Quayle, senior vice president of international network and alliances at United Airlines. “London is an integral part of United’s network and we remain confident demand will continue to grow, particularly as international business travel returns in 2022.” These new flights build on United’s largest–ever trans–Atlantic expansion announced earlier this month. United currently operates a total of seven flights to Heathrow from the U.S.: two daily flights from New York/Newark and Washington D.C., and one daily flight from Chicago, Houston, and San Francisco. In December, service will increase to 10 daily flights, with additional flights from New York/Newark and Chicago, just in time for the winter holidays.  The five new flights will make hopping across the pond easier and more comfortable for both leisure and business travelers, as United Airlines will: Begin brand-new, daily flights from Boston operated with United’s premium Boeing 767300ER, which features 46 United Polaris business class seats and 22 United Premium Plus® premium economy seats.Resume daily flights from Denver and add a second daily flight operated by a Boeing 787-9.Add sixth and seventh daily flights from New York/Newark, each of which will be operated by United’s premium Boeing 767-300ER and allow for hourly service in the evening.Add a third daily flight from San Francisco operated by a Boeing 787-9.Resume daily service to London from Los Angeles.

Over 3,000 global buyers are registered to attend IMEX America.Over 2,200 exhibiting companies, from destinations, venues, hotel groups and technology providers, are also confirmed.The homecoming for the industry is an extra cause for celebration at evening events including Site Nite taking place at the new Resorts World, MPI Foundation’s signature Rendezvous event at Drais and the EIC Hall of Leaders at MGM Grand. “IMEX America is the very first international event to open once the US travel ban lifts on November 8, and by bringing together a large cross-section of the global and US business events community at the show, we hope to pave the way for the sector’s regeneration and recovery.” Carina Bauer looks ahead to IMEX America, taking place November 9 – 11 in Las Vegas. With just under two weeks to go until IMEX America, hundreds more global buyers, exhibitors and industry professionals have now confirmed their attendance. Over 3,000 global buyers are registered to attend. Over 2,200 exhibiting companies, from destinations, venues, hotel groups and technology providers, are also confirmed. Expanded exhibitor line-up The recent US travel announcement has significantly strengthened the European presence at the show from exhibitors including Holland, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Scandinavia and Spain. The show floor spans all four corners of the earth with Australia, Korea, Japan, New Zealand and Singapore among the Asia-Pacific countries, along with other global heavyweights including Dubai, Morocco and South Africa. They join the US, Canada and Latin America to create a truly international reach. These global destinations are proving popular, with many exhibitor schedules filling fast shortly after diaries went live. The Tech Hub area of the show floor is one of the largest ever, showcasing a broad range of tech companies and reflecting just how quickly the sector has evolved over the past couple of years. Companies include Aventri, Bravura Technologies, Cvent, EventsAir, Fielddrive BV, Hopin, MeetingPlay, RainFocus and Swapcard. The Road to Mandalay Bay Billed as the ‘homecoming for the industry’, this year’s show is set to be a very special reunion: not only is it the 10th edition of IMEX America, the show also has a new home – Mandalay Bay. Planning  a show in the new venue has allowed the IMEX team to take a fresh look at the show’s design and introduce some unique features which capitalize on Mandalay Bay’s attractions and enhance the attendee experience. One of these is the ‘Relaxation Reef, which will host a program of wellbeing activities in the venue’s Shark Reef Aquarium, home to more than 2,000 sea creatures. Some of the free learning sessions at the show will also take place in Mandalay Bay’s stunning outside spaces. Tailored learning for all sectors The inspiring, free learning program running throughout the show is not to be missed, and launches on Smart Monday, powered by MPI, taking place on 8 November, the day before IMEX America begins. Dr Shimi Kang from the University of British Columbia will deliver the Smart Monday keynote, showcasing the latest research-based methods for adaptability, innovation, collaboration and lasting business success. Dedicated sessions for various industry groups allow attendees to personalize their Smart Monday experience. There’s education and networking exclusively for corporate executives at the Executive Meeting Forum – designed for senior-level corporate executives from Fortune 2000 companies – and the new Corporate Focus – open to all planners from corporations at all levels. Association leaders can connect and learn with their peers at the Association Leadership Forum, created by ASAE. Each day begins with an MPI keynote. Movers and shakers from outside the business events industry will each bring their unique world view to the show including the founder of a global dance movement and community. The Inspiration Hub is once again home to show floor education, delivering a packed schedule of learning opportunities addressing the business needs and skillset requirements that define late 2021. Sessions cover Creativity in communication; Diversity and accessibility; Innovation and tech; Business recovery, Contract negotiations, Personal branding and Sustainability. Celebrate the industry’s homecoming While the show floor is the hub of business and learning, the IMEX America experience continues across Las Vegas. Bespoke tours provide the lowdown on the city whether it’s the finest food, mystery experiences or the inside track on two iconic venues: Caesar’s Palace and Mandalay Bay. The homecoming for the industry is an extra cause for celebration at evening events including Site Nite taking place at the new Resorts World, MPI Foundation’s signature Rendezvous event at Drais and the EIC Hall of Leaders at MGM Grand. IMEX America takes place 9 – 11 November at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas with Smart Monday, powered by MPI, on 8 November. 

There will be brand new connections on offer during the winter season. Wizz Air is to offer flights from Prague to Rome, Catania and Naples, while Smartwings adds flights to Dubai and London.The route to Tel Aviv will be operated by Israir Airlines, Blue Bird Airways and Arkia Airlines in the 2021 winter season.There will also be a completely new routes this winter season, namely the Prague – Odessa route, on Bees Airline, and SkyUp Airlines new connection to Kyiv. Ryanair’s new routes will improve accessibility to Warsaw and Naples. Effective Sunday, 31 October 2021, the winter flight schedule comes in effect, offering direct connections from Václav Havel Airport Prague to 92 destinations, including exotic countries such as Kenya, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. There will also be new routes operated under the winter flight schedule, for example, to Tel Aviv, Naples, Odessa, Kyiv, Dubai and Amsterdam. The launch of Eurowings’ base operations will also help facilitate the resumption and further development of air traffic. Under the 2021 winter flight schedule, 47 air carriers will operate direct flights from/to Prague. The German company Eurowings, a member of the Lufthansa Group, is opening its base at Prague Airport. Its two Airbus A319 will service connections to 13 European destinations, including the Canary Islands and Barcelona. Ryanair has scheduled connections from Prague to 26 cities, including popular destinations such as London, Krakow and Dublin. The Smartwings Group is to operate connections to almost 20 destinations under the winter flight schedule, such as the Canary Islands, Madeira, Hurghada, Paris and Stockholm. Direct long-haul charter connections to exotic destinations such as the Maldives, Punta Cana, Mombasa, Cancún and Zanzibar will also be available from Václav Havel Airport Prague. Under the 2021 winter flight schedule, 47 air carriers will operate direct flights from/to Prague. The German company Eurowings, a member of the Lufthansa Group, is opening its base at Prague Airport. Its two Airbus A319 will service connections to 13 European destinations, including the Canary Islands and Barcelona. Ryanair has scheduled connections from Prague to 26 cities, including popular destinations such as London, Krakow and Dublin. The Smartwings Group is to operate connections to almost 20 destinations under the winter flight schedule, such as the Canary Islands, Madeira, Hurghada, Paris and Stockholm. Direct long-haul charter connections to exotic destinations such as the Maldives, Punta Cana, Mombasa, Cancún and Zanzibar will also be available from Václav Havel Airport Prague. “We are pleased to watch the resumption of previously-operated routes, launches of connections to new destinations, and frequency increases on existing routes. Thanks to the current trend, we have handled over three million passengers by mid-October. We also hope that, thanks to the new connections offered under the winter flight schedule, the number will continue growing. We are still far from the passenger numbers recorded in 2019, but in terms of the number of offered destinations, we are getting close,” Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Prague Airport Board of Directors, said, adding: “In the up-coming winter season, we expect an increased interest of Czech travelers in trips to exotic destinations. We are glad they will be able to select from multiple options and travel both direct and with transfers.” With the gradual resumption of air traffic, re-launched connections are being returned to Prague. British Airways will, once again, connect Prague with City Airport in central London, Czech Airlines will revive the route to Copenhagen, Ryanair will resume direct services to Barcelona, Paris and Manchester, while Jet2.com will re-launch its flights to Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle.

EgyptAir flight MS729 has returned to Cairo airport due to a threatening message from unknown person.The aircraft returned to the airport of departure 22 minutes after the takeoff and landed safely.The Airbus A220 passenger aircraft en route from Cairo to Moscow sounded an alarm over the Mediterranean Sea. EgyptAir flight MS 729, traveling from Cairo to Moscow, Russia, was forced to return to Cairo Airport after a threatening message was discovered on one of the seats in the main cabin. “The flight MS 729 has returned due to a threatening message from an unknown person left on one of the aircraft seats,” EgyptAir said in a statement. “The aircraft returned to the airport of departure 22 minutes later and landed safely, all the necessary measures are being taken.” The Airbus A220 passenger aircraft en route from Cairo to Moscow sounded an alarm about half an hour after its departure, being already over the Mediterranean Sea. After that, the plane has returned to Cairo airport. According to airline sources, such incidents occur several times a year. As a general rule, such messages turn out to be someone’s prank. However, according to the rules of the airlines, the plane has to land in any case. Upon landing, the aircraft would be carefully checked in line with safety rules, passengers and their luggage would be screened, and then they would be put on another flight.

Air Transat expands its United States program with two new destinations, Los Angeles and San Francisco, as well as year-round flights to Florida.Air Transat announces nonstop service between Montreal – Amsterdam and Quebec City – London.The Montreal – Amsterdam flight will run three times a week and the Quebec City – London flight, once weekly. Air Transat announced that four new routes will be added to its 2022 summer flight program. For the first time ever, the airline will be serving the San Francisco, Los Angeles and Amsterdam airports from Montreal. Furthermore, it will offer an exclusive direct flight between Quebec City and London, strengthening its role as the leading international carrier from the Jean-Lesage Airport. Finally, Air Transat will operate routes to Fort Lauderdale and Miami year-round. “By analyzing travel trends, it’s clear that the United States is still one of the top destinations for Quebecers and Canadians in the wake of the pandemic. Thanks to the versatility of our world-class fleet, we are perfectly positioned to meet this demand and quickly adapt to our passengers’ needs, which is why our service south of the border will be expanding starting in 2022,” explains Annick Guérard, President and Chief Executive Officer at Air Transat. Air Transat is enhancing its United States flight program with the addition of California. The Montreal – San Francisco flight will be operated twice weekly, while the Montreal – Los Angeles flight will run three times a week. Due to sustained demand for flights to Florida, certain routes that were previously available only in winter will now be offered throughout the year. During summer, the Montreal – Miami flight will be operated three times a week and the Quebec City – Fort Lauderdale flight, once weekly. At the same time, the carrier is expanding its service to Europe by adding direct service for two segments, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, making Air Transat the only Canadian airline to fly direct from Montreal to the Dutch capital. The Montreal – Amsterdam flight will run three times a week and the Quebec City – London flight, once weekly.

United announces new shuttle schedule between Newark Liberty and Reagan National airports starting on October 31 with dual-class CRJ-550.United now making 32 trips per day between NYC-area and D.C., a 78% increase and the most flights of any airline.All United’s flights from NYC will now be operated by dual class aircraft, including the new 737 MAX-8 and CRJ-550 jet. United Airlines is making travel between New York City and Washington D.C. easier and more convenient, announcing today it will launch new nearly hourly shuttle service between New York/Newark Liberty International Airport and Reagan National Airport on Oct. 31, and is adding five new flights between LaGuardia Airport and Washington Dulles Airport. In total, United Airlines will operate about 32 flights each day between the NYC and D.C. areas, a 78% increase and the most flights of any other airline. United Airlines is also giving all of its New York City customers an upgrade: starting October 31, all of the airline’s departures from New York/Newark Liberty International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport will include a first-class option, including the 737 MAX-8 and the CRJ-550 – the world’s first 50-seat regional jet with first-class seats and amenities. United will now offer over 7,000 premium seats to customers in New York City, more than any other airline, and the most in the airline’s history. “By flying spacious, modern planes out of the New York City area, we’re not only giving our customers more flexibility and choice but we’re also delivering a reliable, premium experience overall,” said Ankit Gupta, Senior Vice President of Domestic Planning and United Express. “Our customers who regularly travel between Washington, D.C., and New York have told us they value convenience and comfort above all else, and United is committed to providing the high level of service they’re asking for.” United’s CRJ-550 is the world’s first 50-seat regional aircraft designed to offer first class seats and amenities. Originally designed to seat 70 plus passengers, United’s CRJ-550 configuration maximizes customer comfort. United’s new shuttle service between New York/Newark Liberty International Airport and Reagan National Airport will operate seven days a week, with 18 flights offering nearly hourly service between 6AM and 10PM, more frequency than any other airline. United Airlines will also operate five daily flights between New York/Newark Liberty International Airport and Washington Dulles Airport. The new flights between LaGuardia Airport and Washington Dulles Airport will bring the daily flight count to nine and provide consistent service seven days a week between 6AM and 10PM.

With this commitment, which aligns with the target of the Paris Agreement for global warming not to exceed 1.5°C, the aim is to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and to make flying sustainable.Pegasus Airlines carries out monitoring, reporting and improvement work within the framework set out by national and international regulations as part of the efforts towards climate protection and combating global warming.Pegasus Airlines will continue to work tirelessly towards becoming the greenest airline in Turkey and in the region Managing its operations and activities under a “sustainable environment” approach, Pegasus Airlines has joined the world’s leading airlines in the resolution to achieve “Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050” that was approved at The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 77th Annual General Meeting. With this commitment, which aligns with the target of the Paris Agreement for global warming not to exceed 1.5°C, the aim is to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and to make flying sustainable. Commenting on the announcement, Mehmet T. Nane, CEO of Pegasus Airlines, said: “As Pegasus Airlines, minimizing the negative effects on the environment and preventing pollution within the framework of the life cycle are an integral part of our environmental policy. We also carry out monitoring, reporting and improvement work within the framework set out by national and international regulations as part of the efforts towards climate protection and combating global warming. And now, it is a great honor to make this commitment to IATA’s “Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050” resolution together with the world’s leading airlines.” Mehmet T. Nane continued: “With this commitment, we support and commit to the target of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 by utilizing the opportunities provided to our sector through technological advances, with the support from the energy sector and in coordination with stakeholders. Within the framework of our “sustainable environment” approach, we will continue to work on our fleet transformation and carbon offsetting projects in the medium term; and in the long term, focus on the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), new technology aircraft and carbon capture technologies. We will continue to work tirelessly towards becoming the greenest airline in Turkey and in our region.” As part of its ongoing efforts to combat climate change, Pegasus Airlines acts in full compliance with the sectoral regulations outlined by national and international authorities within the framework to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that is crucial for aviation sector, and conducts annual monitoring, verifying and reporting of its carbon emissions in accordance with international regulations. Placing importance on reducing carbon emissions at source, Pegasus implements a variety of operational improvements to achieve this such as transforming to a younger fleet, purchasing lower emission aircraft, reducing aircraft weight and route optimization. With the commitment to achieve “Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050”, and under its transparency principle, Pegasus Airlines has begun to publish its carbon footprint on a monthly basis on its investor relations website, starting with its October 2021 report. All these efforts are also being planned in tandem with Pegasus’ governance strategy in the field of Sustainability (ESG – Environmental, Social, and Corporate) and to support its outputs.

A delegation of Seychelles dignitaries welcomed the return of Air France to the island nation.Seychelles was removed from France’s red list, and this is expected to boost visitor arrivals.It will also help improve occupancy not just in hotels, but also in the smaller guesthouses and self-catering establishments and bring more visitors to Praslin, La Digue, and the other islands. The 203 guests flying in from France on this first flight were given a taste of creole hospitality as they received local souvenirs from the Department of Tourism and experienced the lively spirit of the Seychellois through live traditional music. To commemorate the return of the direct connection of the island nation to one of its key traditional markets, and of Seychelles being placed on the approved “Liste Orange” for French travelers, a delegation comprising the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde; the French Ambassador, His Excellency Dominique Mas; Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mrs. Sherin Francis; and Director General for Destination Marketing, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin were present to welcome the arrivals. Mrs. Willemin commented that the removal of Seychelles from France’s red list and the return of Air France is not only expected to boost visitor arrivals, it will help improve occupancy not just in hotels, but also in the smaller guesthouses and self-catering establishments and bring more visitors to Praslin, La Digue, and the other islands. “Having Air France back on our shores is a great moment for our destination. France remains a market that is performing well for us despite the lack of direct flights and the fact that we were on the red list. With the availability of a direct flights to Seychelles as from today, we are forecasting the French market would not only do well in terms of visitor arrivals but also to regain its place in the top three markets.” The outlook is positive, Mrs. Willemin said. “We are delighted that the six first flights expect full passenger loads and with reports from our French travel trade partners, who have stepped up their promotion of the destination, that their forward bookings to Seychelles are healthy and looking good. Our tourism operators locally, especially the smaller establishments and on islands other than Mahé, have missed our French guests and will be delighted to welcome them back.” Ambassador Dominique Mas mentioned that having a direct connection will help ease the journey of travelers to Seychelles. “The improvement of the sanitary situation in both countries has indeed contributed to the restart of travels between France and Seychelles. The decision to place Seychelles on the ‘orange list’ and the arrival of Air France today reiterates the confidence of both governments in the good functioning of their respective safety measures. We are happy to have a direct flight back from the Paris Charles De Gaulle airport as it is now easier for French travelers to get to Seychelles,” said the French Ambassador. Seychelles, which went back to physical promotional activities in September, recently participated at the 2021 IFTM Top Resa exhibition, one of the main international trade fairs dedicated to tourism in France, Mrs. Willemin said. “IFTM Top Resa was a promising event for us as we noticed a renewed interest in our destination and allowed us to increase our visibility in the media in France.” Seychelles recorded 43,297 visitor arrivals from France in 2019, making it the country’s second top market for that year. So far in 2021, 8,620 visitors from France have travelled to the islands. With the return of Air France, the Seychelles is now served by 11 airlines.   #rebuildingtravel

The Biden Administration announced a new international air travel policy that is stringent, consistent across the globe, and guided by public health.Starting on November 8, foreign national air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to fly to the United States,Fully vaccinated air travelers will continue to be required to show documentation of a pre-departure negative viral test from a sample taken within three days of travel to the United States before boarding. As of November 8 the United States is changing the requirements for leisure and business travelers to enter the US. The United States Department of State released new COVID-19 Vaccinations and Testing for International Travel guidelines today. The Biden Administration announced a new international air travel policy that is stringent, consistent across the globe, and guided by public health. Starting on November 8, foreign national air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to fly to the United States, with only limited exceptions. The CDC has determined that for the purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include those FDA approved or authorized, as well as vaccines with an emergency use listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO).  See cdc.gov for more details. Fully vaccinated air travelers will continue to be required to show documentation of a pre-departure negative viral test from a sample taken within three days of travel to the United States before boarding. That includes all travelers – U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), and foreign nationals. To further strengthen protections, unvaccinated travelers – whether U.S. citizens, LPRs, or the small number of excepted unvaccinated foreign nationals – will now need to show documentation of a negative viral test from a sample taken within one day of travel to the United States. Both U.S. citizens and foreign nationals who are fully vaccinated should travel with proof of their vaccination status to provide to their airline prior to departure to the United States. That proof of vaccination should be a paper or digital record issued by an official source and should include the traveler’s name and date of birth, as well as the vaccine product and date(s) of administration for all doses the traveler received. For foreign nationals, proof of vaccination will be required – with very limited exceptions – prior to departure to the United States. While vaccination proof is not required for U.S. citizens and LPRs, fully vaccinated U.S. citizens and LPRs (and their dependents) will continue to be able to show documentation of a negative viral test from a sample taken up to three days before departure to the United States. They must present proof of vaccination to qualify for the 3-day test window. U.S. citizens and LPRs who are unable to show that they are fully vaccinated will have to show documentation of a negative viral test taken no more than one day before departure. In addition to verifying proof of a pre-departure negative test result – which they have done since January 2021 – airlines will now also verify vaccination status. Passengers will need to show their vaccination status, either via a paper record, a photo of their paper record, or a digital app. The airlines will need to: Match the name and date of birth to confirm the passenger is the same person reflected on the proof of vaccination;Determine that the record was issued by an official source (e.g., public health agency, government agency) in the country where the vaccine was given;Review the essential information for determining if the passenger meets CDC’s definition for fully vaccinated such as vaccine product, number of vaccine doses received, date(s) of administration, site (e.g., vaccination clinic, healthcare facility) of vaccination. Children under 18 are exempted from the vaccination requirement for foreign national travelers, given both the ineligibility of some younger children for vaccination, as well as the global variability in access to vaccination for older children who are eligible to be vaccinated. Travelers must show documentation of a negative viral COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 within the past 90 days before boarding a plane to the United States (or before boarding the first flight in a series of connections booked on the same itinerary to the United States). Both nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), such as a PCR test, and antigen tests qualify. A self-test can be used if it meets the requirements of the order including real-time proctoring by a telehealth service affiliated with the manufacturer of the test and that generates a test result that can be reviewed by the airline before boarding. This is the same standard for qualifying tests that has applied to the pre-departure testing requirement since January. The test must be administered no more than three calendar days before the date of the international flight to the United States. So, if a traveler is departing for the United States at 10 PM on January 19, they would have to present a negative test result for a test that was taken any time after 12:01 AM on January 16. Previously, all travelers were required to show a negative test result within three days of travel to the United States. For those U.S. citizens and LPRs who can show they are fully vaccinated, that requirement remains the same – they have to show documentation of a negative test result from a sample taken within three days of travel. That means that all fully vaccinated U.S. citizens and LPRs traveling to the United States should be prepared to present documentation of their vaccination status alongside their negative test result. Those U.S. citizens and LPRs who cannot demonstrate proof of full vaccination will now have to show documentation of a negative test from a sample taken within one day of departure. The easiest way to avoid having to meet this tougher requirement is for travelers to get vaccinated. We believe the overwhelming majority of international travelers will already be fully vaccinated and those who aren’t already and are eligible should get vaccinated before traveling. Over-the-counter proctored tests are widely available in the United States, so U.S. citizens traveling abroad can bring a proctored test kit with them upon departure from the U.S. that they can take before returning home. And we are confident that there will be sufficient supply globally as well. However, there is also a waiver process in place from the pre-departure testing requirement when a suitable test is not available.

A highlight of the discussion was the possibility of introducing a special service between Dubai and Jamaica, in celebration of Jamaica Day at Expo 2020, Dubai in February 2022.There was also a productive discussion around tourism and airline recovery prospects.Further discussions are anticipated to enable a more fulsome engagement of the Emirates and other partners in the Middle East. A major element of the wide-ranging discussion was the possibility of introducing a special service between Dubai and Jamaica, in celebration of Jamaica Day at Expo 2020, Dubai in February 2022. “We agreed to explore the feasibility of arranging this flight, details of which are to be worked out as soon as possible. There was also a productive discussion around tourism and airline recovery prospects and the positive V-shape pattern being experienced by Jamaica and Dubai,” said Bartlett.  He anticipates further discussions in the context of multi-destination strategies being formulated in the northern Caribbean to enable a more fulsome engagement of the Emirates and other partners in the Middle East. Emirates is the largest airline in the UAE, and the Middle East overall, operating over 3,600 flights per week. While in the UAE, Minister Bartlett and his team also met with the country’s Tourism Authority to discuss collaboration on tourism investment from the region; Middle East tourism initiatives; and gateway access for North Africa and Asia and facilitation of airlift. There were also meetings with executives of EMAAR, arguably the largest and most prestigious hospitality and Real Estate/Community developer in the Middle East; DP World, one of the world’s largest port and marine logistics companies; DNATA, the single largest tour operator in the UAE and TRACT, a powerful tour operator in India. “The round of marketing activities my team and I had with the key tourism and logistics partners in the UAE, were very fruitful.  This will undoubtedly result in the process of securing new investments, markets and gateways from the Middle East, Asia/Asia Minor and Africa to Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean,” Minister Bartlett explained.  From the UAE, Minister Bartlett will head to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he will speak at the 5th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII). This year’s FII will include in-depth conversations about new global investment opportunities, analysis of industry trends, and unparalleled networking among CEOs, world leaders, and experts. He will be joined by Senator, Hon. Aubyn Hill in his capacity as Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation (MEGJC), with responsibility for Water, Land, Business Process Outsourcing (BPOs), the Special Economic Zone Authority of Jamaica and special projects. Minister Bartlett will return to the island on Saturday, November 6, 2021.

European travelers can now book a much-deserved winter break from one of Ryanair’s new winter routes to Amman or Aqaba.This includes exciting destinations like Madrid, Paris-Beauvais, Poznan, Rome-Ciampino, and Vienna.To celebrate, Ryanair has launched a JOD 17 (€19.99) seat sale for travel until the end of March 2022, which must be booked by midnight Wednesday, October 27. Ryanair’s Amman W21 schedule will deliver: •             16 routes in total •             5 new routes from Madrid, Paris-Beauvais, Poznan, Rome-Ciampino and Vienna •             Over 370 on-site jobs Ryanair’s Aqaba W21 schedule will deliver: •             6 routes in total •             1 new route from Vienna •             Over 50 on-site jobs European travelers can now book a much-deserved winter break from one of Ryanair’s new winter routes to Amman or Aqaba, including exciting destinations like Madrid, Paris-Beauvais, Poznan, Rome-Ciampino, and Vienna. To celebrate, Ryanair has launched a JOD 17 (€19.99) seat sale for travel until the end of March 2022, which must be booked by midnight Wednesday, October 27, on Ryanair.com. Speaking from Amman, Ryanair’s Director of Commercial, Jason McGuinness, said: “As Europe’s largest airline, we are delighted to announce our largest ever schedule to Jordan, further strengthening the long-standing cooperation between Ryanair and the Jordan Tourism Board. As Ryanair takes delivery of 55 additional Boeing B737-8200 ‘Gamechanger’ aircraft this Winter, we are delighted to announce six new routes (22 total) to Amman and Aqaba, which demonstrates Ryanair’s ability to rapidly rebuild tourism in Jordan. “Jordanian tourism will recover strongly this Winter 2021, and Ryanair who will be at the forefront of this, are pleased to announce our largest Winter schedule to Jordan – operating flights to 22 routes across 14 countries, allowing Ryanair customers to experience the Wonder of Petra or valleys of Wadi Rum.  “To celebrate we are launching a seat sale to celebrate our Winter routes to Jordan, with fares available from just JOD 17 (€19.99) for travel until the end of March 2022, which must be booked by midnight Wednesday, October 27, 2021. “Since these amazing low fares will be snapped up quickly, customers should log onto www.ryanair.com to avoid missing out.” Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, Dr. Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, stated regarding broadening the prospects for cooperation between the two parties: “Signing of this Agreement by the JTB and Ryanair and reaching a total of 22 routes in Jordan will increase the numbers of tourists, producing sustainable tourism solutions that will be received by all governorates throughout the Kingdom. It will also promote the diverse Jordanian tourism sector and local communities by creating new employment opportunities for those in the sector. “With the addition of these new six routes, there will be an increase in the number of tourists to the Kingdom with an average of 39,000 tourists for the upcoming Winter and Summer season, which will in effect have pronounced positive financial impact on all other tourism sectors.”

The first peak was for travel immediately after the relaxation of restrictions during the week commencing November 8.The second peak was over Christmas, achieving 16% of bookings during Christmas week and 14% the week before.A steep increase in bookings to the USA for the Christmas period is expected in the coming weeks. New research reveals that flight bookings to the USA have soared following two announcements that the destination would reopen to vaccinated foreign travelers in November. By mid-October, weekly bookings exceeded 70% of pre-pandemic levels. The first announcement was made on 20th September, when the White House said that visitors from the United Kingdom, Ireland, the 26 Schengen countries, China, India, South Africa, Iran and Brazil would be allowed to enter the USA, without being subject to quarantine, provided they were fully vaccinated. That caused an immediate reaction, with week-on-week bookings from the UK jumping 83%, from Brazil jumping 71%, and from the EU jumping 185%!  The second announcement was made on 15th October, when the US President’s Assistant Press Secretary, Kevin Munoz, named 8th November as the date restrictions would be relaxed. Week-on-week bookings climbed higher still, jumping 15% from the UK, 26% from the EU and 100% from Brazil. Looking at the distribution of confirmed bookings, for arrival in November and December, from those three source markets (Brazil, EU and UK), there were two clear peaks. The first peak was for travel immediately after the relaxation of restrictions during the week commencing 8th November, achieving 15% of bookings. The second peak was over Christmas, achieving 16% of bookings during Christmas week and 14% the week before. This data yet again demonstrates the enormous pent-up demand for travel. Immediately people heard that they would be allowed to visit the USA again; they booked; and a substantial proportion booked to fly as soon as they could. It is also interesting to note that bookings climbed higher once a specific date was given. That is not entirely surprising for two reasons. First, the certainty of a specific date inspires confidence. Second, those wanting to travel before the end of November could not afford to make a commitment until they knew for sure that they could travel when they wanted to. A steep increase in bookings to the USA for the Christmas period is expected in the coming weeks.

SWISS will operate up to four flights a week to New York’s JFK from December 14, 2021.United Airlines will resume Newark-Geneva flights on November 1, 2021, with four flights a week. United Airlines and SWISS are codeshare partners and members of the Star Alliance. SWISS International Air Lines, Switzerland’s national flag carrier, has announced that it will resume flights between Geneva Airport (GVA) and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) on select days of the week starting in December 2021. SWISS will operate up to four flights a week to JFK from December 14, 2021. United Airlines has also announced that its service between Geneva Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) will resume on November 1, 2021, with four flights a week.  The two airlines are codeshare partners and members of the Star Alliance. There is pent-up demand for travel to Switzerland and this is welcome news for both leisure and business travelers. That’s especially true for those looking for direct flights to Geneva and to Vaud, the French-speaking canton on the shores of Lake Geneva. The decision by SWISS and United is vital for business and tourism in the capital city of Lausanne, home of the Olympic Museum, as well as in such lakeside cities as Montreux and Vevey. The timing of the announcement is also ideal for the start of the 2021-22 ski season at winter resorts, including Villars, Les Diablerets and Leysin, as well as at Glacier 3000. The route between Geneva and New York is one of the airport’s most historic connections. It was launched just after the war in 1947 to link the two United Nations centers and has served as a diplomatic bridge. Today, Geneva is home to more than 30 intergovernmental organizations and nearly 400 NGOs. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the region hosted more than 3,000 international conferences and meetings per year. Many American multinationals have regional headquarters in French-speaking Switzerland and the airport is a vital link between the Canton of Vaud and the United States for both business and leisure travel.

Hawaiian Airlines today confirmed it will resume its five-times-weekly service between Australia’s Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) and Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), beginning Dec. 13. Hawaiian, which suspended the route in March 2020 due to travel restrictions imposed at the onset of the pandemic, will welcome Australians back to the islands with its signature Hawaiian hospitality in time for the holidays. “We are thrilled to reconnect Hawaiʻi and Australia and have been encouraged by the public’s response to Australia’s national vaccination program, enabling the reopening of borders,” said Andrew Stanbury, regional director for Australia and New Zealand at Hawaiian Airlines.  “Hawaiʻi is a hugely popular holiday destination for Australians, and we know many people have been keenly waiting to take a Hawaiian vacation. We are looking forward to safely welcoming our guests back on board to enjoy the authentic hospitality we know our guests love and have missed,” he added. HA451 will resume Dec. 13 by departing HNL on Mondays and Wednesday through Saturday at 11:50 a.m. and arrive at SYD approximately 7:45 p.m. the next day. Starting Dec. 15, HA452 will depart SYD on Tuesdays and Thursday through Sunday at 9:40 p.m. with a 10:35 a.m. scheduled arrival at HNL, allowing guests to check in to their accommodations and begin exploring O’ahu, or connect to any of Hawaiian’s four Neighbor Island destinations.  Hawaiʻi Gov. David Ige last week welcomed back visitors beginning Nov. 1 now that public health efforts have resulted in among the lowest rates of COVID in the United States. Hawaiian Airlines last month also launched a new in-flight video encouraging visitors to Travel Pono (responsibly) by enjoying Hawai’i safely and responsibly.  In addition to convenient nonstop flights to Hawai’i, Australian travelers flying on Hawaiian Airlines also regain access to the carrier’s extensive U.S. domestic network, allowing them to seamlessly continue their travels to 16 U.S. mainland gateways – including new destinations in Austin, Orlando, and Ontario, California – with the option to enjoy a stopover in the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaiian will continue to operate the SYD-HNL route with its 278-seat, spacious wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft, which features 18 Premium Cabin lie-flat leather seats, 68 of its popular Extra Comfort seats, and 192 Main Cabin seats.  Currently, only Australian citizens and returning permanent residents and their immediate family members are permitted to enter Australia without an exemption. While entry requirements for the state of Hawaiʻi remain to be announced, Hawaiian hopes the state of Hawai’i will align its requirements with U.S. government rules requiring international arrivals to show proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of departure effective Nov. 8. International rules continue to evolve, and travelers are encouraged to stay updated via official government channels as they prepare for their trip.  Hawaiian started SYD-HNL service in May 2004 and maintained its position as a leading destination carrier for travel to Hawaiʻi via New South Wales. The carrier’s three-times-weekly service between HNL and Brisbane Airport (BNE), which launched in November 2012, remains paused. Visit www.HawaiianAirlines.com to view flight schedules and purchase tickets.

Radixx, a Sabre company and leading airline retailing software provider, today announced the company has entered into an agreement for the full Radixx product suite with TOKI AIR, a start-up low-cost carrier based in Japan’s port city, Niigata. TOKI AIR will initially focus its strategy on the regional leisure market with flights originating out of Niigata Airport to major domestic destinations within Japan.   TOKI AIR chose Radixx as its technology partner due to its established presence within Japan as well as its ability to meet the airline’s implementation timeline.  As part of the engagement, TOKI AIR will take advantage of the full Radixx product suite including Radixx ezyCommerce, Radixx Res, Radixx Go, Radixx Go Touch, and Radixx Insight. The adoption of the full suite will enable the airline to launch sales with the most modern solutions and drive efficiencies from the start of operation.   “We were impressed by each of the product demos that we saw in regard to response times and automated processes that will help establish our airline operations,” said Masaki Hasegawa, Representative director, TOKI AIR. “We are grateful to the Sabre and Radixx team for their commitment to meet our implementation time. We believe that their existing footprint in Japan along with their breadth of products has allowed us to establish an exciting path forward with Sabre and the Radixx product suite as our chosen technology partner.”   To showcase its e-commerce offers, TOKI AIR will use Radixx ezyCommerce internet booking engine including a fully integrated Travel Agency Portal which will be used by local travel agents. TOKI AIR will maintain a high level of control over their online branding and offers using the Radixx ezyCommerce Content Management System.   TOKI AIR will go live on the Radixx Res passenger services system designed to optimize retailing strategies and conversion, with retailing built in the core, enabling centralized management of flight and value-added services.  It is this centralized logic that will allow the airline to quickly setup fare and ancillary offers as well as automate processes that enable efficiency. The modern, intuitive interface supports their need for double-byte characters, enhancing the agent experience.    Radixx Go departure services suite and Radixx Go Touch mobile solutions will enable TOKI AIR to evolve its check-in operations at the airport and easily expand capacity during peak season using roaming agents. Together, the departure services desktop and mobile solutions will help create an efficient airport experience for travelers.   TOKI AIR will use Radixx Insight reporting and analytics tool to proactively make swift and meaningful business decisions in real-time.   “We are thrilled to further expand our valued partnerships in Japan and welcome TOKI AIR to the Sabre and Radixx community,” said Chris Collins, senior vice president and general manager for Radixx. “We are proud to provide their airline with our industry-leading technology and are deeply committed to facilitating a seamless implementation and go live for their airline.”   Together, Sabre and Radixx’s robust travel platform will provide the airline a one-stop shop in offer and order management through fulfillment and post-flight operations.  TOKI AIR operated a test flight from Tokyo Narita Airport to Sado Airport on May 24, 2021. TOKI AIR plans to launch sales in March 2022 and commence flight operations towards the middle of 2022. The airline also plans to expand its cargo business with ATR Cargo Flex aircraft.   About Sabre CorporationSabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveler experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world. For more information visit www.sabre.com.  About Radixx  Founded in 1993, Radixx, headquartered in Orlando, Florida, combines an innovative technology approach with unique partnership models enabling airlines of all sizes and business models to be effective retailers and efficient operators. Radixx caters to LCC and ULCC airlines, including the support of GDS distribution. Radixx offers a world-class Internet Booking Engine, Radixx ezyCommerce™, a cloud-based Passenger Services System, Radixx Res™, and a leading Departure Services Suite, Radixx Go™, uniquely designed to enable airlines to increase their profitability and maximize productivity through expanded distribution services. Since 2016, Radixx has delivered its sixth-generation, micro-services-based passenger services system. For more information on Radixx, please visit www.radixx.com.  About TOKI AIR   Established in 2020, TOKI AIR is a low-cost carrier jointly established by the Niigata Chamber of Commerce and Niigata Association of Corporate Executives. The new airline is expected to operate ATR aircraft to attractive routes such as Kansai area, Nagoya, Sendai, and Sapporo. TOKI AIR plans to commence operations in 2022. And TOKI AIR plans new route connected SADO-island and Tokyo. 

Delta Air Lines is adding over 100 daily flights in NYC this fall – a 25% capacity increase compared to summer 2021.Delta Air Lines is restoring nonstop service to New York City’s top 40 domestic markets.JFK and LGA’s largest carrier operating over 400 daily flights to 92 destinations. After a summer of recovery, Delta Air Lines isn’t slowing down in bringing back more flights and destinations for New York’s business and leisure travelers alike. By November, Delta Air Lines will add more than 100 total daily departures from John F. Kennedy Airport and LaGuardia Airport compared to the airline’s summer 2021 schedule – translating to approximately 8,000 additional seats each day to the people and places New Yorkers love most. With domestic consumer travel back to 2019 levels, Delta Air Lines is focused on restoring capacity safely and reliably as business travel picks up with volumes not seen since the pandemic began. “We’re adding 25% more capacity this fall to meet the significant demand for business and international travel going into next year,” said Joe Esposito, Delta’s S.V.P. – Network Planning. “We continue to provide more choice and convenience while rebuilding our global connectivity and delivering what Delta does best – putting our customers first with exceptional, reliable service and a premium travel experience.” Not only will Delta restore nonstop service to all of New York’s 40 most popular domestic markets by next month, but multiple key business markets will also see meaningful boosts in flight options, including Boston (BOS), Washington, D.C. (DCA), Raleigh-Durham (RDU) and Charlotte (CLT). This follows Delta’s already expanded service to NYC’s biggest corporate markets earlier this fall, like Chicago (ORD), Dallas/Ft. Worth (DFW) and Houston (IAH) – part of Delta’s thoughtful approach to adding capacity in line with the return of demand.  Delta also recently launched new LGA service to Toronto (YYZ) and will launch a new flight to Worcester, Massachusetts (ORH) starting November 1. Delta will offer the most flights and seats of any carrier at JFK and LGA with 400 total daily departures to 92 domestic and international destinations. And every Delta flight at JFK, LGA and EWR will now offer a First Class experience, due to the removal of smaller, 50-seat aircraft from all NYC markets. Delta has also expanded its Airbus A220 flights in New York, complementing a similar expansion at our rapidly-growing Boston hub, to Chicago (ORD), Dallas/Ft. Worth (DFW) and Houston (IAH). The A220 offers customers a spacious, modernized experience with the widest Main Cabin seats in our fleet, high-capacity overhead bins and extra-large windows. As the holiday travel season approaches and the U.S. readies the lifting of travel restrictions on vaccinated international visitors, Delta will add more New York service to its global portfolio by the end of 2021. Across the Atlantic, Delta will operate up to 15 daily flights to 13 destinations in December. Delta will double flights to Paris (CDG) and London (LHR) to twice a day as well as increase service to daily for Dublin (DUB) starting December 6. For the winter holidays, Delta will launch a second daily flight to Tel Aviv (TLV) beginning December 18 and bring back direct flights to Lagos (LOS) three times a week on December 7. Additionally, Delta will reinstate nonstop service to Frankfurt (FRA) on December 13, which was last operated in March 2020. For Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta will operate over 20 daily flights to 18 destinations, restoring capacity to approximately 85% of pre-pandemic levels. For those looking for a warm getaway, Delta will restart service to São Paulo (GRU) and Los Cabos (SJD) on December 19, plus increase service to daily for St. Thomas (STT) and St. Martin (SXM) on December 18. Delta will also launch new service from JFK to Panama City, Panama (PTY), on December 20.

Ankara, Turkey is the best capital city for hotel prices, with an average price of $45.74 per night.Luxembourg has free public transport and is the crowned best capital city for transport in the world.Valletta, Malta is both the best capital city for attractions (311 per KM per sq) and for restaurants (442.6 KM per sq). As winter approaches, cities are the ideal places to head on vacation, filled with lots to do whatever the weather. And for travelers hoping to escape the USA now, with travel restrictions lifted, capital cities around the world provide the ideal city vacation destination.   But which capital cities are the best for tourists? To determine which capitals are the best to visit on holiday, travel experts have analyzed 69 developed capitals on a range of factors including the cost of hotels and transport, the average weather forecast, and the number of attractions and restaurants.  The top 10 best capital cities for tourists around the world RankCapital CityCountryAverage Cost of a Hotel ($)Average One Way Ticket Price Local Public Transport ($)Average Temp (degrees c)Average Annual Rainfall (mm)Number of AttractionsNumber of RestaurantsTotal Score1VallettaMalta$199.58$2.3718.804271902706.742Abu DhabiUnited Arab Emirates$158.69$0.5527.92425912,7786.243New DelhiIndia$101.87$0.4025.007002,87512,4096.064ManamaBahrain$180.87$0.8026.50681206945.775RiyadhSaudi Arabia$169.78$0.8726.00662181,2895.746MuscatOman$210.66$1.3228.001003305635.597ParisFrance$193.34$2.2612.307207,79717,4485.578Kuwait CityKuwait$180.87$0.8525.701284231,1445.569AnkaraTurkey$45.74$0.4212.004515323,8885.5310JakartaIndonesia$81.77$0.2826.702,0977938,9585.48 Valetta, Malta is revealed as the best capital city in the world with an overall score of 6.74 out of 10, with the highest number of attractions and restaurants out of all of the capital cities. Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE, ranks second with a score 6.24 out of 10.  Average temperatures in the city hit 27.92 degrees and the average rainfall is just 42mm per year, making this a great destination if you’re a sun seeker. New Delhi, India ranks third place with an average score of 6.06 out of 10, with average temperatures topping 25 degrees and 12,409 restaurants to choose from. Further insights: Ankara, Turkey is the best capital city for hotel prices, with an average price of $45.74 per night. Luxembourg has free public transport and is the crowned best capital city for transport in the world. Bangkok, Thailand is the best capital city for temperature with an average of 26.6 degrees. Cairo, Egypt has the least rainfall with only 18mm of average rainfall per year. Valletta, Malta is both the best capital city for attractions (311 per KM per sq) and for restaurants (442.6 KM per sq).

World Travel Market is ready to open its doors on November 1, and so is the Kingdom of Thailand.The Minister of Tourism and the Governor of Tourism will be attending the World Travel Market in London.A press conference is already scheduled for Monday at WTN to announce the 46 countries on the new green list to enjoy an amazing holiday again in the Kingdom Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha of Thailand will open the country to visitors from 46 countries instead of only 10 Covid-19 low-risk countries announced earlier, starting from Nov 1. Even though not officially announced the Foreign Ministry of Thailand published a list of the countries allowed to send citizens to Thailand. Travel to Thailand again from these countries and territories: AustraliaAustriaBahrainBelgiumBhutanBrunei DarussalamBulgariaCambodiaCanadaChileChinaCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkEstoniaFInlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIcelandIrelandIsraelItalyJapanLativiaLithuaniaMalaysiaMaltaNetherlandsNew ZealandNorwayPolandPortugalQatarSaudi ArabiaSingaporeSloveniaSoith KoreaSpainSwedenSwitzerlandUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesHong Kong (China) Dov Kalmann, representative of the Tourism Authority in Thailand welcomes this news. He told eTurboNews after Americans, Israel has been sending most visitors to the regions already open for tourism in Thailand. This is a great news !

High testing costs and continued travel restrictions hinder accessibility of travel and create elitist system.With only 34% of world population fully vaccinated, immunization inequality threatens economic recovery.The sector’s contribution to global GDP fell from nearly US$ 9.2 trillion in 2019, to just US$ 4.7 trillion in 2020, representing a loss of almost US$ 4.5 trillion. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia launched today an important new report that highlights the main points to restore international mobility, and recommendations to drive the recovery of the Travel & Tourism sector, while enhancing its resilience. With the pandemic bringing international travel to an almost complete standstill, due to border closures and severe travel restrictions, Travel & Tourism suffered more than any other sector over the past 18 months. The sector’s contribution to global GDP fell from nearly US$ 9.2 trillion in 2019, to just US$ 4.7 trillion in 2020, representing a loss of almost US$ 4.5 trillion. Furthermore, as the pandemic ripped through the heart of the sector, a shocking 62 million Travel & Tourism jobs were lost. This new report highlights WTTC’s latest economic projections which reveal the sector’s recovery is set to be slower than expected this year, largely linked to continued border closures and challenges linked to international mobility. The sector’s contribution to GDP is expected to rise by a modest 30.7% year-on-year in 2021, representing only US$ 1.4 trillion increase, and at the current rate of recovery, Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP could see a similar year-on-year rise of 31.7% in 2022. Meanwhile, the sector’s jobs are set to rise by a mere 0.7% this year, representing only two million jobs, followed by 18% increase next year. Representing the worst crisis for the Travel & Tourism sector, COVID-19 not only impacted the global economy, but also the wellbeing and livelihoods of people all over the world. Before the pandemic began to severely impact the sector, Travel & Tourism was one of the largest sectors globally, responsible for one in four new jobs created worldwide between 2015-2019 and was a key enabler for socio-economic development and poverty reduction, offering unique opportunities to women, minorities, rural communities, and youth. This new report from WTTC, in partnership with Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia reveals pain points that focus on the urgent challenge to restore international mobility, framed by the need to address the weaknesses of the sector shown during the pandemic by redesigning a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future. This important new report demonstrates how international border closures, uncertainty due to changing rules, the prohibitive cost of testing, and the lack of reciprocity and uneven vaccination rollout have hindered the recovery of the Travel & Tourism sector during the past 18 months. By June 2020, all countries still had some form of travel restrictions, playing an important role in the drop in international spending by 69.4% that year. These restrictions, ever-changing and confusing, continued to significantly affect traveler’s confidence to book, as there was no clear pathway, nor global consensus, in terms of testing requirements, quarantine, and vaccination standards. According to the report, the latest global traveler sentiment survey published by Oliver Wyman shows only 66% plan to travel abroad in the next six months, and less than one in 10 (9%) have booked a future trip, showing the continued uncertainty of traveler’s decision-making. Costly PCR tests continue to have a detrimental impact on travelers, reversing any progress of making travel accessible and creating further inequalities. Julia Simpson, President & CEO WTTC, said: “The Travel & Tourism sector is key for many livelihoods which continue to be affected by the failure to harmonize and standardize COVID-19 regulations worldwide. There is no excuse for a patchwork of regulations, countries need to join forces and harmonize the rules. Many developing countries rely on international travel for their economy and have been left devastated. “As is stands, only 34% of the global population have been fully vaccinated, showing that there are still large vaccine rollout inequalities globally. A swift and equitable immunization plan, alongside worldwide reciprocal recognition of all WHO approved vaccines, is needed to safely reopen international travel and promptly resume the economic activity. “WTTC recognizes the importance of restoring consumer confidence, and we have developed, with the public and private sector working together, a set of harmonized Safe Travel protocols for 11 industries across the Travel & Tourism sector. Our globally recognized Safe Travels stamp has been adopted by more than 400 destinations worldwide.” His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia said: “This report shows the impact COVID-19 has had on the global travel and tourism industry – and the unevenness of the recovery now underway. We need to be clear: unless tourism recovers economies will not recover.  “We must come together to support this critical industry, which before the pandemic was responsible for 10% of GDP globally. With this report, Saudi Arabia is calling for the sector to come together to Redesign Tourism for a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient future.” The report outlines recommendations to achieve a swift recovery of the Travel & Tourism sector, as COVID becomes an endemic. A focus based on international coordination to reopen borders, fair testing conditions, and digitalisation for travel facilitation, together with sustainability and social impact at the core of the sector, will restore international mobility and the Travel & Tourism sector. These measures will save millions of jobs, and enable communities, businesses, and destinations which rely on the Travel & Tourism sector, to fully recover and prosper again.

The proof-of-vaccination certificate will have a Canadian identifying mark and meets major international smart health card standards.The document will include a person’s name, date of birth and COVID-19 vaccine history — including which doses a person received and when they were inoculated.Canadians will not be able to board a plane for foreign or domestic travel without a proof-of-vaccination certificate beginning November 30. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced today that a new standardized COVID-19 vaccination travel certificate is being launched by the country’s government. “As Canadians look to start travelling again, there will be a standardized proof-of-vaccination certificate,” Trudeau said, urging Canadians who have not done so to get vaccinated as soon as possible. “We can end this pandemic and get back to the things we love.” The national government will pay for rolling out the standardized vaccination passport, Trudeau said. “We will picking up the tab.” In Canada, healthcare is largely delivered by provincial governments and mostly financed by the national government, sometimes leading to political squabbles about jurisdiction and who pays for what. Some provinces, including Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador and all three northern territories, have already started using the national standard for a proof-of-vaccination certificate, Trudeau said. New digital travel document, dubbed Vaccine Passport, will have a QR code for scanning at airports, train stations and other points of entry.

Antigen test would be offered to outgoing air travelers whose countries accept approved rapid testing upon return from international destinations.The Federation has removed the exit testing requirement for travelers whose countries of origin do not require return testing. The exit tests will be taken at the visitors “Travel Approved” hotel or accommodation solely by a Ministry of Health approved health professional. St. Kitts & Nevis announced yesterday, October 20, 2021, that the Antigen test would be offered to outgoing air travelers whose countries accept approved rapid testing upon return from international destinations. The Federation has removed the exit testing requirement for travelers whose countries of origin do not require return testing.  The exit tests will be taken at the visitors “Travel Approved” hotel or accommodation solely by a Ministry of Health approved health professional 48 – 72 hours prior to departure, with samples tested in a certified local lab. Scheduling of the test must be through the hotel concierge at the respective “Travel Approved” hotels; travelers staying in villas, condos and/or private homes are advised to contact the COVID-19 taskforce hotline 311 or [email protected] to schedule their test. Please note the tests are at the traveler’s cost with cost ranging between USD 50.00 and USD 55.00. Approved labs at this time are: The Joseph N. France Laboratory; Next Gen Laboratory; Avalon Laboratory and Quality Diagnostics.  For entry into entry into the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis, all Travel Protocols and Requirements remain in place, including the submission of negative test results from an RT PCR test 72 hours prior to arrival. Visitors are reminded to regularly check the St. Kitts Tourism Authority and Nevis Tourism Authority websites for updates and information. 

Two thirds of Chinese travelers have taken a domestic flight since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.81 percent of survey respondents say they plan to fly t least once within next 12 months.Of those planning to travel, 73% will travel for leisure, with only 24% planning business trips. According to the latest travel industry survey, 96% of travelers in China are ready and are planning on traveling by air in the near future. 81% of the survey respondents say they plan to fly at least once within the next 12 months and 50% plan to fly by this autumn. Of those planning to travel, 73% stated it was for leisure with only 24% planning business travel. The pent-up demand is also reflected in China’s passenger traffic, which is showing signs of a strong recovery. As of September 2021, China traffic was at 87% of 2019 levels — way ahead the rest of Asia (42%). The survey revealed that two thirds (66%) of Chinese travelers have taken a domestic flight since the start of the pandemic. The schedules data reveal domestic travel in Q4 is primed to outpace pre-pandemic levels, growing by some 15% compared to Q4 2019. Following months of restrictions triggered by China’s Zero-COVID policy, increased demand for a major return to international and regional travel is obvious. More than half (61%) of survey respondents said that they are ready to travel out of mainland China once borders are open, with Southeast Asia being the top region of choice, followed by Europe, Australia/New Zealand and East Asia.

Offered for terms of five and seven-and-a-half years, the note was issued in four tranches. Due to strong demand, the total issue volume was raised markedly from the initially envisaged volume of €200 million.Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen and UniCredit Bank AG acted as the joint lead arranger for Fraport’s note loan issue. Fraport AG successfully placed a promissory note totaling €500 million today (October 21). Offered for terms of five and seven-and-a-half years, the note was issued in four tranches. Due to strong demand from German and international investors, the total issue volume was raised markedly from the initially envisaged volume of €200 million. The issue was made at the lower end of the price spread. Fraport AG’s executive board member for finance and controlling (CFO), Prof. Dr. Matthias Zieschang, said: “We are very pleased with the extremely high demand from investors for our promissory note. This is another clear vote of confidence in the Fraport Group. Moreover, it confirms that we are on the right track. Thanks to our consistent liquidity management, we have surmounted the peak of the coronavirus pandemic – and we will also be able to make the necessary investments for the future.” Today’s promissory note issue increases the amount of new financing raised by Fraport AG during 2021 to nearly €2.9 billion. Thus, the Group now has a total of about €4.5 billion in liquidity funds as well as secured and unused credit lines.  Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen and UniCredit Bank AG acted as the joint lead arranger for Fraport’s note loan issue.

Morocco bans flights to and from the UK over deteriorating COVID-19 situation in Great BritainBritish carrier EasyJet has cancelled outbound travel from UK to Morocco until November 30.Major British holiday operator TUI is working with customers to organize their departure from Morocco. Moroccan government announced that all flights to and from the UK, the Netherlands, and Germany have been suspended effective midnight on Wednesday. Government officials in Rabat said that the UK flights ban has been enacted due to the sharply rising number of new COVID-19 infection cases in Great Britain. The move, which will take effect from 23:59GMT on Wednesday, has been confirmed by the Moroccan National Office of Airports, which warned that it will remain in place ‘until further notice. The government’s decision to ban travel could impact families in England and Wales planning to travel to the popular tourist location for Britons during the half-term holidays, which begin next week.  British carrier EasyJet, which runs flights between Europe and Morocco, has cancelled outbound travel from the UK to Morocco until November 30. EasyJet is in talks with the Moroccan government about offering repatriation flights for UK citizens who find themselves stuck abroad due to the restrictions. Major holiday operator TUI has confirmed it has spoken with the Moroccan government about the move, and said the company is working with customers to organize their departure from the North African nation. The decision to restrict travel between the UK and Morocco comes as British officials record over 40,000 new COVID-19 cases per day, and the country reported its highest single-day deaths from coronavirus since March. In the past two weeks, the UK has reported more new COVID-19 cases than France, Germany, Italy and Spain combined.  The head of the British umbrella group NHS Confederation, Matthew Taylor, has warned that the UK is “stumbling into a winter crisis,” leaving the health service “on the edge.”  However, the UK government has rejected calls to implement COVID-19 restrictions under its COVID ‘Plan B,’ ruling out any suggestion of a lockdown over the winter.

The Chairman of the African Tourism Board, Cuthbert Ncube, is currently in Addis Ababa on a working visit and met with Mrs. Mahlet Kebede, Head of Ethiopian Airlines ET Holidays.When visiting the Ethiopian Airlines headquarters, Ncube was accommodated by ATB Ambassadors Hiwotie Anberbir and Kazeem Balogun. The two leaders agreed on the importance for Ethiopian Airlines and the African Tourism Board to work together. Cuthbert Ncube said: “The African Tourism Board supports the repositioning and rebranding of Africa within a coordinated approach. It means that we must achieve this with our strategic partners like Ethiopian Airlines. Ethiopian Airlines is known as the airline with the title ‘Pride of Africa.’ Together we can achieve the dream of our founding fathers of unifying Africa using tourism as a driving tool.” Having played a critical role in the recently held East African Regional Tourism Expo 2021 in Arusha Tanzania, ATB is poised to ensure tourism recovers soon. Kebede said, “By 2022, we hope to incorporate your organization in our events calendar in the areas of various tourism activations within the continent.” “With this partnership, the African Tourism Board and Ethiopian Airlines will be strategically positioned to deliver a robust travel and tourism sector in the post-COVID-19 era. COVID has afforded us to go back to the drawing board on how to incorporate best practices into the scheme of things,” Ncube added. There are many areas of mutual interest. A Memorandum of Understanding should be signed between the two organizations in order to officially launch this partnership between this Star Alliance airline and ATB. Facing the COVID-19 pandemic, Ethiopian Airlines has been working hard to promote regional tourism within Africa more prominently. The state-owned airline has been a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) since 1959 and of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) since 1968. Ethiopian is a Star Alliance member, having joined in December 2011. The company slogan is The New Spirit of Africa. Ethiopian’s hub and headquarters are at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, from where it serves a network of 125 passenger destinations—20 of them domestic and 44 freighter destinations. The African Tourism Board was first established in 2018 by the African Tourism Marketing Group in the United States. ATB is based in the Kingdom of Eswatini. ATB’s goal is to promote Africa as a single prime tourism destination. The African Tourism Board is a strategic partner of the World Tourism Network.

An uptick has been noted by both American Airlines and Southwest Airlines along with Expedia.As of November, American Airlines will be utilizing their new wide-bodied Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for these operations.Southwest Airlines informed that their flight operations into Montego Bay (MBJ) near-term are very close to pre-pandemic record year levels. “American, Southwest and Expedia are all critical partners for Jamaica’s tourism sector, and we look forward to welcoming many more visitors in the near future,” said Minister of Tourism for Jamaica, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett. “Confidence in growth for Jamaica’s tourism remains strong and we will maintain our world-class Jamaica CARES health and safety protocols, including our Resilient Corridors, to ensure a robust winter.” To meet the higher demand for Jamaica, American Airlines will be up gauging the aircraft utilized on flights to Montego Bay (MBJ) from their major city hubs of Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Miami (MIA), and Philadelphia (PHL). As of November, they will be utilizing their new wide-bodied Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for these operations. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is one of the carrier’s newest planes, offering a more comfortable flight experience with additional conveniences for both business and economy class passengers. American Airlines is the largest air passenger carrier serving Jamaica. It operates multiple daily non-stop flights to the destination from several U.S. cities including Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), Chicago (ORD), Boston (BOS), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW, and Charlotte (CLT). The airline also recently announced that they will be operating non-stop flights 3 times weekly Sun/Mon/Thu from Philadelphia (PHL) to Kingston (KIN) starting November 4. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines has informed Minister Bartlett that their flight operations into Montego Bay (MBJ) near-term are very close to pre-pandemic record year levels. This demand growth indicated by American and Southwest is further supported by Expedia, which has data showing room night and passenger growth metrics surpassing a comparable period in 2019. These updates were provided during meetings with the airlines and Expedia that were among a series of meetings held with travel industry leaders across Jamaica’s largest source markets of the United States and Canada. The meetings aimed to drive increased tourist arrivals in the near term and to cement further investment in the island’s tourism sector. Joining Minister Bartlett at these meetings was the Chairman of the Jamaica Tourist Board, John Lynch; Director of Tourism, Donovan White; Senior Strategist in the Tourism Ministry, Delano Seiveright and Deputy Director of Tourism for the Americas, Donnie Dawson. Jamaica remains open for travel and continues to welcome visitors safely. Its health and safety protocols were among the first to receive the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels recognition that allowed the destination to safely reopen to travel in June 2020. The island has also recently announced new cruise developments and ninety percent of planned tourist investments remaining on track.

Morocco bans flights to and from the UK over deteriorating COVID-19 situation in Great BritainBritish carrier EasyJet has cancelled outbound travel from UK to Morocco until November 30.Major British holiday operator TUI is working with customers to organize their departure from Morocco. Moroccan government announced that all flights to and from the UK have been suspended effective midnight on Wednesday. Government officials in Rabat said that UK flights ban has been enacted due to sharply rising number of new COVID-19 infection cases in Great Britain. The move, which will take effect from 23:59GMT on Wednesday, has been confirmed by the Moroccan National Office of Airports, which warned that it will remain in place ‘until further notice’. Government’s decision to ban travel could impact families in England and Wales planning to travel to the popular tourist location for Britons during the half-term holidays, which begin next week.  British carrier EasyJet, which runs flights between Europe and Morocco, has cancelled outbound travel from the UK to Morocco until November 30. EasyJet is in talks with the Moroccan government about offering repatriation flights for UK citizens who find themselves stuck abroad due to the restrictions. Major holiday operator TUI has confirmed it has spoken with the Moroccan government about the move, and said the company is working with customers to organize their departure from the North African nation. The decision to restrict travel between the UK and Morocco comes as British officials record over 40,000 new COVID-19 cases per day, and the country reported its highest single-day deaths from coronavirus since March. In the past two weeks, the UK has reported more new COVID-19 cases than France, Germany, Italy and Spain combined.  The head of the British umbrella group NHS Confederation, Matthew Taylor, has warned that the UK is “stumbling into a winter crisis,” leaving the health service “on the edge.”  However, the UK government has rejected calls to implement COVID-19 restrictions under its COVID ‘Plan B,’ ruling out any suggestion of a lockdown over the winter.

St. Kitts & Nevis welcomes fully vaccinated international air travelers from India and South Africa.The removal of the travel restrictions at this time for India and South Africa is consistent with the lifting of the restrictions on travelers from the UK on September 1, 2021.St. Kitts & Nevis travel restriction remains in place for international travelers from Brazil.  St. Kitts & Nevis welcomes fully vaccinated international air travelers from India and South Africa with the October 18, 2021, removal of the restriction on travelers from these two destinations.  The removal of the travel restrictions at this time for India and South Africa is consistent with the lifting of the restrictions on travelers from the UK on September 1, 2021, and aligns with the continued upward momentum of the vaccination rate in the Federation. The travel restriction remains in place for international travelers from Brazil.   Among the adult population of St. Kitts & Nevis, 77.4% have received one dose of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine, with 70.3% of the adult population fully vaccinated; among children and teenagers between the ages of 12 – 17, 10.9% of have received their first dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine with 6.8% having received two doses. (Statistics as of October 19, 2021). Effective October 7, 2021, “Vacation in Place” was reduced to 24 hours, with the required RT PCR arrivals test taken onsite at “Travel Approved” hotels and accommodations. Test results will be made available during the 24-hour “Vacation in Place.” Those travelers with a negative test result may fully integrate into the Federation after the 24-hour period has elapsed and enjoy the myriad experiences St. Kitts & Nevis offers including, dining in restaurants, experiencing the vibe at one of the local beach bars on “The Strip,” visiting our unique and one-of-kind attractions, sailing the clear waters, hiking the volcano, shopping our local craft markets or just chilling at one of our beaches. As announced on May 29, 2021 only fully vaccinated travelers will be allowed entry to the Federation. Exemptions are in place for Citizens and Residents of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis and children under the age of 18 accompanying their fully vaccinated parents or guardians.All Travel Protocols and Requirements remaining in place for the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis, including the submission of negative test results from an RT PCR test 72 hours prior to arrival. A traveler is considered fully vaccinated when two weeks have passed since receiving their second dose of a two dose vaccine series (Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/Oxford, Sinopharm or Sinovac), or two weeks after they have received a single dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson). Mixing of approved vaccines for St. Kitts and Nevis is accepted.

Official naming ceremony and first flight of Lufthansa’s first Boeing 787-9 next year scheduled for next year.Lufthansa announced that it will receive a total of five Boeing 787 Dreamliners aircraft in 2022.Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of the long-haul aircraft are around 30 percent lower than predecessors. The German capital will receive a new “flying” ambassador: Lufthansa is naming its first Boeing 787-9 “Berlin.” The naming ceremony is set to take place following delivery of the aircraft next year. “Berlin” is the first of five Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners that Lufthansa will add to its fleet in 2022. The ultra-modern long-haul aircraft consume on average only 2.5 liters of kerosene per passenger and 100 kilometers flown. That is around 30 percent less than predecessor aircraft. The CO2 emissions are also greatly improved. Since 1960, Lufthansa has had a tradition of naming its aircraft after German cities. Willy Brandt, West Germany’s Chancellor in the late 1960s and 70s, honored Lufthansa during his tenure as Mayor of West Berlin (1957–1966) by naming the airline’s first Boeing 707 “Berlin”. More recently, an Airbus A380 with the registration identifier D-AIMI bore the prestigious name of Germany’s capital. The first Lufthansa Boeing 787-9 – “Berlin” – will be registered D-ABPA. The first scheduled intercontinental destination for Lufthansa’s 787-9 will be Toronto, Canada’s financial center and hub. Lufthansa and the German capital have a long and special relationship. The prewar company was founded in Berlin in 1926 and rose again to become one of the world’s leading airlines. Following the culmination of World War II and for 45 years, only the civilian aircraft of the ‘allies’ were allowed to land in the divided city. Since reunification, Lufthansa has been flying to Berlin for more than 30 years, with no other airline group flying so many Berliners all over the world in the past decades as Lufthansa and its sister carriers. Currently, the Lufthansa Group airlines connect the German capital to some 260 destinations worldwide, either with direct flight or through connections in one of the many group hubs.

A recent survey the Jordan Tourism Board completed indicated that 2022 is poised to break travel records to DC.65 percent of trade operators in the United States have travel bookings in the fall of 2021 to Jordan, compared to only 15 percent the season prior. With clear COVID protocols in place throughout the country, travelers should feel at ease visiting Jordan. “We are excited to launch the new capital to capital, Washington DC to Amman, service, making it easier to connect more people to Jordan and the rich heritage and culture that the country has to offer,” shared Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President International Network and Alliances. The announcement from United shows the airline’s confidence in the destination as international travel starts to pick up after the devastation of the pandemic. The move also supports a recent survey the Jordan Tourism Board completed that indicated that 2022 is poised to break travel records to the destination. The survey also showed that 65 percent of trade operators in the United States had travel bookings in the fall of 2021, compared to only 15 percent the season prior.  “We are excited to welcome the legacy carrier to Jordan to help open up business between the two capitals Washington DC and Amman. We always welcome American travelers to the Kingdom to experience the incredible culture and the diversity Jordan has to offer.” Shared Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board. “We are looking forward to welcoming United Airlines to Amman, and working together to bring even more travelers to experience our incredible country,” said Malia Asfour, Director of the Jordan Tourism Board North America. “With clear COVID protocols in place throughout the country, travelers should feel at ease visiting Jordan. This is a big step in linking Jordan’s capital with Washington DC, and encouraging American travelers to book a meaningful travel experience at world-renowned attractions like Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.” To learn more about the new route, visit united.com/en-us/new-routes.   To learn more about meaningful travel to Jordan visit the website visitjordan.com.

Approximately $2.2 billion in structural cost reductions and returning aircraft to service will fuel strong CASM-ex performance in 2022 and beyond.Returning business travelers and re-opening European borders are opportunities United is well positioned to capitalize on.Continuing improvements and reliability leads to all-time record Net Promoter Score year-to-date; a nearly 12% increase. United Airlines (UAL) today announced third-quarter 2021 financial results. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 Delta variant in the third quarter, the company remains confidently on track to achieve the range of longer term financial targets laid out as part of its United Next plan earlier this summer, and to reduce CASM-ex below 2019 levels next year. Citing the rebound in premium leisure travel, re-opening of European borders next month, continued recovery of business travel and early indications of loosening travel restrictions in key Pacific markets, United also announced plans to increase international capacity by 10% in 2022 – while keeping domestic capacity flat to 2019. The plan will capitalize on already improving international margins and United’s ideally situated coastal hubs that have powered the airline’s recent success in launching new routes to Africa and India. Expected flying at record levels to Europe, Latin America, India, Africa and the Middle East in summer 2022, will be enabled by the anticipated return of United’s Pratt & Whitney-powered Boeing 777s to the fleet in 2022, which – when combined with already announced approximately $2.2 billion in structural cost reduction and planned gauge growth – will allow United to keep CASM-ex in check as it continues on the path to recovery. “The recovery was delayed by the Delta variant, but the United Airlines team remains focused on our long-term vision – and not getting sidetracked by near-term volatility – meaning we’re solidly on track to achieve the targets we set for 2022,” said United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. “From the return of business travel and the planned re-opening of Europe and early indications for opening in the Pacific, the headwinds we’ve faced are turning to tailwinds, and we believe that United is better positioned to lead the recovery than any airline in the world. Our recovery will be supported by investments in technology and other efficiencies that will give our employees the tools they need to take great care of our customers – and keep costs under control. I am grateful to our United team members for their continued commitment to our customers, because it has been essential to our ability to weather the pandemic, and it will fuel our success in the years ahead.”

The memo reassures workers that they may continue working if their exemptions aren’t yet approved.Instead of unpaid leave, Southwest employees awaiting judgement will continue to receive a paycheck.If their exemption is denied, the staff can reapply if they have new information or circumstances. Southwest Airlines employees are no longer forced to take unpaid leave while applying for exemptions to the COVID-19 vaccination mandate. Following a week of protests, denials and canceled flights, the airline has reversed course on its worker vaccine mandate. Southwest Airlines will no longer force employees awaiting decision on a religious or medical exemption to the mandatory vaccine order to take unpaid leave until their cases are decided, according to a memo obtained by news services today. Southwest has confirmed the authenticity of the memo, which gives employees until November 24 to either get vaccinated or apply for an exemption. Instead of unpaid leave, employees awaiting judgment on their exemptions will continue to receive a paycheck and may even continue working “as [Southwest] coordinate[s] with them on meeting the requirements (vaccine or valid accommodation),” the note explains. Written by senior vice president of operations and hospitality Steve Goldberg and vice president and chief people officer Julie Weber, it reassures workers that they may continue working if their exemptions aren’t yet approved so long as they follow masking and social-distancing rules, and promises that staff can reapply if their exemption is denied if they have “new information or circumstances [they] would like the Company to consider.” The memo’s release comes after days of protesting outside Southwest’s Dallas headquarters and rumors of sick-outs among air traffic controllers and other employees. Southwest was forced to cancel thousands of flights last week – over 1,000 on Sunday alone – though it refused to acknowledge what was behind the cancellations, in many cases blaming the weather despite clear and sunny skies. Airports were snarled with angry passengers as would-be travelers arrived to find their flights mysteriously cancelled. As a federal contractor, Southwest Airlines had previously planned to put all unvaccinated employees who had not yet received a medical or religious exemption by December 8 on unpaid leave. Unlike smaller carriers, under the president’s mandate it lacks the option of allowing employees to submit to weekly testing. As of last week, 56,000 Southwest employees had yet to take the shot. Southwest’s competitor United Airlines adopted its own vaccine mandate in August, before Biden had even announced the federal rule, and has similarly threatened the noncompliant with unpaid leave. However, a federal judge in Fort Worth has temporarily barred the airline from moving forward with the penalty. Some 90% of the company’s staff are reportedly vaccinated. Earlier this month, fellow US carriers American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and JetBlue also adopted a federal vaccination mandate, since they are considered to be federal contractors and thus ineligible to opt out of the jab.

The crash occurred in Waller County, near the town of Katy, and close to the Houston Executive Airport.Despite the extensive fire damage to the aircraft, no casualties were reported, either on the ground or among the passengers.The commuter plane, an MD-80, was taking off around 10am local time, bound for Boston, Massachusetts. A passenger plane crashed and burned in Waller County, near the town of Katy, Texas and close to the Houston Executive Airport today, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. A commuter plane, and MD-80, came down and burst into flames, according to dramatic footage from the scene. Incredibly, all of the 21 people on board were able to escape from the aircraft, local officials said. According to the local sheriff Troy Guidry, all 21 passengers and crew had made it out safely, though one person had been hospitalized with back injuries. Footage from the scene shows huge clouds of billowing black smoke as firefighters attempted to douse the burning wreckage. The crash site was near the corner of Morton and Cardiff Roads. Despite the extensive fire damage to the aircraft, no casualties were reported, either on the ground or among the passengers. The accident reportedly occurred as the plane, an MD-80, was was taking off around 10am local time, bound for Boston. Headed north, it apparently failed to attain altitude at the end of the runway and crossed the road instead, eventually stopping and catching fire.

For the first time a departing flight at Gatwick has used sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).Q8Aviation has delivered the first supply of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel to the fuel supply at Gatwick Airport.It confirms the strong commitment of all parties involved to achieve a net carbon emission reduction in the fuel used in aviation and work towards an ultimate goal for aviation to reach net zero emissions by 2050. With the first one departing today, a total of 42 easyJet flights operating from Gatwick Airport are to be powered by a 30 percent Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™ blend. This important milestone marks the first time a departing flight at Gatwick has used sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and is also the first usage by any easyJet service. It confirms the strong commitment of all parties involved – international aviation fuel supplier Q8Aviation, easyJet, Gatwick Airport Ltd and Neste – to achieve a net carbon emission reduction in the fuel used in aviation and work towards an ultimate goal for aviation to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Of the 42 flights running on Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel blend, 39 of these will be the easyJet flights operating from Gatwick to Glasgow throughout the COP26 Climate Change Conference, which runs from 31st October to 12th November. Across all 42 flights, greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by up to 70 tons which further signals the industry’s intentions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on a course to reaching net zero emissions by 2050. Q8Aviation has delivered the first supply of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel to the fuel supply at Gatwick Airport. Neste’s market-leading sustainable aviation fuel, which is fully certified, is produced from 100% renewable and sustainable waste and residue raw materials, such as used cooking oil and animal fat waste. In its neat form and over its life cycle, Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel can achieve a reduction of up to 80%* of greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil jet fuel use. Neste-produced SAF is blended with Jet A-1 fuel at a depot upstream of Gatwick Airport to create a drop-in fuel that is compatible with existing aircraft engines and the airport infrastructure, without requiring extra investment. Q8Aviation delivered the fuel to the main storage tanks at Gatwick Airport for supply to easyJet aircraft via the airport’s hydrant system. The incorporation of SAF into Gatwick’s operations for today’s flight is an important proof of concept for the airport in demonstrating its continued commitment to work with its aviation partners on decarbonization. Gatwick’s own 2019 carbon footprint showed that the airport is already half-way to net zero for its own operations and is committed to achieving Net Zero direct emissions by 2040. Jonathan Wood, Vice President Europe, Renewable Aviation at Neste said: “The aviation industry has already taken important steps to reduce its environmental impact. A key element in achieving this is the wider introduction of sustainable aviation fuel. Neste is investing as we speak to increase SAF production capacity from 100,000 metric tons to 1.5 million metric tons annually in 2023. Neste welcomes government proposals to encourage the use of SAF to reduce aviation greenhouse gas emissions. It is important that more and more airlines, airports and fuel suppliers lead the way to a more sustainable future for aviation. We are happy to welcome easyJet, Q8Aviation and Gatwick Airport among these frontrunners.” Naser Ben Butain, General Manager Q8Aviation said: “We are delighted to play our part in supplying the first sustainable aviation fuel to easyJet at Gatwick. We have forged a strong partnership with easyJet over many years, and benefit from excellent support from Gatwick Airport Ltd and Neste, and look forward to working closely with all the partners to further our sustainability objectives.” Jane Ashton, Director of Sustainability at easyJet said: “At easyJet, we want to play our part to lead the decarbonization of aviation. We’re pleased to announce that today we’re operating using SAF in a proof of concept flight from Gatwick having also committed to using a SAF blend on all flights operating from Gatwick to Glasgow throughout COP26, thanks to a collaborative effort with our partners involved in this project. The availability of SAF still needs to grow but they will be an important interim solution in our decarbonization pathway, while we are supporting the development of zero-emission aircraft, which will be the most sustainable solution for short-haul networks such as our own in the long term. In the meantime, we are operating our flights as efficiently as possible and are currently the only major European airline to offset the carbon emissions from the fuel used for all our flights, which has an impact right now.” Tim Norwood, Director of Corporate Affairs, Planning and Sustainability of Gatwick Airport said: “We are very pleased to work with easyJet, Q8Aviation and Neste to demonstrate SAF use at Gatwick Airport. SAF is one of several ways that UK aviation and Gatwick will reach net zero carbon by 2050, alongside carbon offsets, airspace modernization and continued innovation in aerospace technology, including electric, hydrogen and hybrid aircraft systems.  With smart Government policy to underpin investment in cost competitive UK SAF production, many more flights could be using UK produced SAF by the mid-2020s. Achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 is both a great challenge and an opportunity for our industry.  Sustainable Aviation’s decarbonization roadmap and interim goals set out clear milestones and we’re ready to play our part at Gatwick, through implementing the roadmap’s first decade milestones and by keeping the roadmap updated to incorporate additional technology solutions for the 2030s.”

With over 35 destinations to the islands, American is your airline to the French Caribbean Island of Martinique.American Airlines, the largest US airline company, is a crucial long-time partner of the Island of Flowers. Beginning November 6, American Airlines will start its nonstop service between Miami International Airport and Fort-de-France’s Aimé Césaire International Airport. Flights to Martinique from the United States will resume thanks to American Airlines.  Beginning November 6, the carrier will start its nonstop service between Miami International Airport and Fort-de-France’s Aimé Césaire International Airport.  The flights will operate once a week on Saturdays before increasing to three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays for Christmas and the second half of February through March. “American Airlines, the largest U.S. airline company is a crucial long-time partner of the Island of Flowers”,” states Martinique Tourism Commissioner Bénédicte di Geronimo. “That is why we’re thrilled to welcome back our main U.S. carrier and all its passengers with open arms. Experiencing Martinique will for sure convince our US visitors of the reason why Martinique has received very recently Gold honors in Travel Weekly’s 2021 Magellan Awards as an Eco-Friendly “Green” Destination, has been named #1 Emerging Destination in the world in 2021 by Tripadvisor, not counting the two distinctions granted recently by UNESCO for our unique traditional Yole Boat as well as for the richness of our biodiversity”. “With over 35 destinations to the islands, American is your airline to the French Caribbean Island of Martinique, said Evette Negron, Channel Sales Manager at American Airlines. “It is a real pleasure to offer to American travelers the opportunity to discover the beauty and rich history of Martinique in all safety, from the very moment of fastening their seatbelt.” The Embraer 175 aircraft with 76 seats will be used for the three-and-a-half-hour flights. 

The anti-COVID-19 ban on entering Russian territory no longer applies to family members of foreign citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in Russia.Before now, only family members of Russian citizens had an opportunity to enter Russia.The change was initiated by the Russian Foreign Ministry following the results of numerous appeals. The Consular Department of Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on its Telegram channel today, that a COVID-19-related ban previously imposed on entering Russia has been lifted for family members of foreign citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in the country. “The anti-COVID-19 ban on entering Russian territory no longer applies to family members of foreign citizens and stateless persons permanently residing in Russia (that is, having a residence permit in Russia). Family members consist of spouses, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, adoptive parents, adopted children, guardians and trustees,” the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ message reads. The Foreign Ministry specified that the entry of the said persons into Russia is possible upon presenting a copy of a document confirming kinship status, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate and other documents or the establishment of guardianship or trusteeship. “In the event of the absence of an agreement on visa-free travel between the state of citizenship of a relative and the Russian Federation, the person who is doing the inviting, who in this case is a foreigner permanently residing in Russia, should apply to Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs to issue an invitation, which will be the basis for obtaining a private visa for his relative by the Russian Consular office,” the Foreign Ministry said. According to the Consular Department, the work on making appropriate amendments to the decree of the Government of the Russian Federation dated March 16, 2020 was initiated by the Russian Foreign Ministry following the results of numerous appeals, including via social networks of foreigners permanently residing in Russia, as well as their close relatives. The Ministry added that before that only family members of Russian citizens had an opportunity to enter Russia as part of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic .

‘Virtual Tourism’ tops as the most discussed tourism type among Twitter influencers and Redditors in 2021.‘Space Tourism’ emerged as the next most discussed tourism type according to Social Media Analytics Platform.Discussions around ‘Adventure Tourism’ were mostly driven by epic ideas shared by Twitter influencers for various adventure travels in different countries. Tourism being a major contributor to the GDP of several countries, the governments are taking various measures to revive the industry’s business from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. An analysis of the Social Media Analytics (SMA) Platform, which identifies and tracks the emerging trends, pain areas, new fields of innovation among discussions of Twitter influencers and Redditors, has revealed ‘Virtual Tourism’ as the most popular type of tourism, followed by ‘Space Tourism’ in 2021. 1. Virtual Tourism | 4,400 + discussions ‘Virtual Tourism’ tops as the most discussed tourism type among Twitter influencers and Redditors in 2021. Discussions around ‘Virtual Tourism’ were related to how virtual tour has provided a new experience to the visitors through different technologies-enabled methods such as 360-degree photo, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), a video tour, Google Arts. Influencers’ sentiment was largely positive about ‘Virtual Tourism’ as it became an alternative solution for tourism business to rebuild interest among travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic where social distancing became a new norm. 2.Space Tourism | 4,100 + discussions ‘Space Tourism’ emerged as the next most discussed tourism type according to the Social Media Analytics Platform. Majority of the discussions on this topic were based on the launch of two successful space flights – ‘Virgin Galactic’ by Richard Branson and ‘Blue Origin’ by Jeff Bezos in July and August, respectively. Twitter influencers were seen more active in discussions related to ‘Space Tourism’, as compared to Redditors in 2021. Among them, the technology experts have opined that though the era of space tourism has heralded with the successful launch of both space flights, but it could be a giant leap for air pollution. 3. Adventure Tourism | 3,100 + discussions Discussions around ‘Adventure Tourism’ were mostly driven by epic ideas shared by Twitter influencers for various adventure travels in different countries like mountain climbing in Tuscany’s Rolling Hills and Dolomite Mountains in Italy, Sperrin Mountain in Northern Ireland, Choquequirao trek in Peru. They also shared tips and the essential items to be packed while going for any adventure travel, including waterproof socks, flashlights, tow rope and ice scraper. Influencers opine that ‘Adventure Travel’ can transform the world from one of monotony and drabness to one of excitement. 4. Food Tourism | 1,510 + discussions The conversations on ‘Food Tourism’ were largely about attractive food tourism destinations with reasonable prices, such as Vancouver and Nova Scotia in Canada and Bern in Switzerland. The contributors also discussed their foodie experiences, delicacies, and the culinary heritage of different destinations globally. Mole Poblano Sauce of Mexico was one of the top discussed food items among influencers. 5. Wine Tourism | 900+ discussions Discussions around ‘Wine Tourism’ were surged the most during the first week of September 2021, led by the fifth UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism in Portugal, which was focused on the potential to generate development opportunities in rural destinations. Influencers also discussed various initiatives taken by different countries to promote ‘Wine Tourism’, such as the Santorini event by Greek and the implementation of the ‘Iter Vitis Caucasus route’ by Azerbaijan.

Families who lost loved ones in the crash of a Boeing 737 MAX jet in 201,9 killing all 157 onboard had harsh words for Boeing.The attorney said the U.S. government didn’t go far enough in the indictment of Mark Forkner Thursday (Oct. 14, 2021). The former chief pilot of the new aircraft was indicted yesterday by the U.S. Department of Justice on six counts for his actions, including lying during the certification process of the new aircraft.  eTurboNews invited Kevin P. Durkin of Clifford Law Firm in Chicago, IL, USA, to speak during a podcast today. He is representing more than 70 victims that died on Ethiopian Airlines in the Boeing 737 MAX crash. “Forkner is just a fall guy. He and Boeing are responsible for the deaths of everyone who died in the MAX crashes,” said Nadia Milleron, mother of Samya Rose Stumo, who was killed in the second fatal crash in March of 2019. “The system within Boeing rewarded short-term financial gain over safety, and Mark Forkner was operating within that system. Prosecutors can and should find quite a few other people who were also responsible for causing the crashes. Every single family who lost someone in the MAX crash feels the same way: the executives and board of directors of Boeing need to go to jail.” [embedded content] The crash of Ethiopian Flight 302 occurred after takeoff in March 2019, killing all 157 onboard. Five months earlier, in October 2018, the first Boeing 727 MAX jet crashed in the Java Sea after takeoff from Indonesia, killing all 189 aboard.   “The Deferred Prosecution Agreement was really a DOJ Boeing ‘Don’t Prosecute Agreement.’ Nobody really believes that Forkner was the only bad actor in this complex pressure for profits and the scheme to defraud the FAA,” said Michael Stumo, father of Samya Rose Stumo. “It shows that Boeing CEO David Calhoun and the former board members will throw anyone under the bus to protect the C-Suite.” The DOJ brought a criminal case against Boeing for killing 346 people in the two crashes but settled the matter earlier this year in what is referred to as a Deferred Prosecution Agreement. Columbia Law Professor John Coffee at the time called it “one of the worst deferred prosecution agreements I have seen.” Boeing did not have to plead guilty to any of the allegations, and no Boeing executive was charged.  Boeing’s lead corporate criminal defense law firm is Kirkland & Ellis. Erin Nealy Cox, the lead prosecutor in the Boeing case, left the Justice Department earlier this year and soon thereafter joined Kirkland & Ellis as a partner in its Dallas office. Paul Njoroge of Toronto, Canada, who lost his entire family in the ET302 crash, said: “The actions of Mark Forkner and Boeing with respect to the 737 MAX certification, production and release to the market, resulted in the death of 346 people: among them my wife, her mum, and our three children. By corporates’ customs and practices, Mark Forkner did not act alone. Boeing principals must have been behind the rush to produce the 737 MAX, push it into the market, project higher revenues and earnings, excite Wall Street, and in so doing, pump up the Boeing stock. When Lion Air Flight JT610 crashed on October 29, 2018, Mark Forkner and Boeing’s principals committed 189 murders in the third degree. But after failing to ground the 737 MAX after that crash, knowingly shifting the public focus from the company by blaming the so-called ‘foreign’ pilots for that crash, they certainly committed 157 murders in the second degree, when Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed on March 10, 2019.  “The federal grand jury should follow a thorough fact-finding process, indict others, especially the top-level management at Boeing, and then find them criminally liable over the death of my wife, our three children, my mum-in-law, and 341 others. We have had congressional and senatorial hearings, where Boeing’s ex-CEO, Dennis Muilenberg and the Chief Engineer John Hamilton refused to answer basic questions. I hope that the indictment of Mark Forkner will bring to light the extent of negligence, concealment of information, and hubris within Boeing that led to the two crashes. The public deserves to know. There will never be justice for me for the death of my family, but there will be justice for the public if Mark Forkner and others at Boeing faced maximum prison terms,” Njoroge said. “The indictment yesterday of Boeing’s former chief pilot for deceiving federal authorities about the 737 MAX is a corporate whitewash,” said Robert A. Clifford, founder and senior partner of Clifford Law Offices in Chicago and Lead Counsel in the consolidated litigation against Boeing in the crash of a 737 MAX in Ethiopia in 2019. “The tragic loss of 157 lives could have been prevented had Mark Forkner spoken up but he certainly didn’t act alone.” Forkner, who led the 737 MAX Flight Technical Team during its rushed development into service, reportedly was charged with two counts of fraud involving aircraft parts in interstate commerce and four counts of wire fraud. He is due to appear Friday in federal court in Fort Worth, Texas. The most serious charge carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. “This inexcusable type of corporate greed goes far beyond the chief pilot at the company that haphazardly made these aircraft in an effort to increase profits,” Clifford said. “As Lead Counsel in the litigation against Boeing and speaking on behalf of so many families who will never be the same, I implore the DOJ to go further in its criminal investigation and indictments to determine just how far the deception went and who was at the bottom of it all. I think they will find many corporate officials took part in withholding critical information from the certifying agency. A deep-dive criminal investigation is owed to these families who gave the ultimate sacrifice and to the flying public that continues to buy tickets on the MAX aircraft.” “Even if given the maximum prison sentence, that is nothing compared to those families who will never see their loved ones again. They are gone; gone because Forkner was part of a scheme to hide the truth from those who had the ability to make these planes safe,” Clifford said. “And what was Boeing’s initial reaction to these crashes despite knowing they had cut corners? Boeing executives chose to blame the innocent pilots who were told nothing about the new software system that completely changed the way the aircraft behaved, nor did the pilot training manuals even mention the new software system.” Clifford refers to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) that Forkner allegedly did not share with FAA officials before they approved the aircraft as safe to fly.   “The flying public still isn’t certain whether Boeing has changed its ways and is operating with full transparency in allowing this plane and future aircraft to fly,” Clifford said.