Etihad Airways Debuts Warsaw, Prague Flights —Get Ready for Adventure!

Pack your bags and polish your passports because Etihad Airways is spreading its wings even wider! Starting June 2025, you can fly direct to Warsaw, Poland, or Prague, Czech Republic, with Etihad’s brand-new routes. That’s right, folks—your dreams of sipping espresso in Prague’s Old Town Square or strolling through Warsaw’s vibrant streets just got a whole lot easier.

Come June 2 2025, Etihad debut’s its first direct flights to Poland and Czech Republic and it promises to be a very warm welcome. Operated by Boeing 787 Dreamliner which has ultra-comfortable business class and economy on 4 weekly flights, you will be air-gliding in style whether in business class or snug in the economy. Delectable food, comfortable seating, and a smooth flight who can tell that will land in Europe and be ready for adventure.

Yet, it’s not all about getting new stamps in the passport – Etihad has a larger scheme in progress. All these new routes have been incorporated in a grand strategy of European expansionism with the specific goal of making Abu Dhabi the world destination that it should be. From its unique buildings to booming entertainment, Abu Dhabi is ready to showcase its cultural amenities to the tourists, and the best thing is that it is now much easier to travel there.

And yo, for those who want to earn extra miles, connecting to cities like Sydney, Mumbai and Bangkok are also made possible with Etihad’s new routes. So whether you are making plans for a trip around Europe or wishing for a continent-hopping adventure, well don’t worry, you will have Etihad (and your bag) to help.

Etihad Airways Debuts Warsaw, Prague Flights

Last minute tip: Make sure to book through Etihad.com and take advantage of a free stopover in Abu Dhabi for two nights. Yes, that is right, two full days to explore the beautiful skyline, luxury shopping and possibly even the fastest roller coaster in the world. You’re welcome.

So, what are you waiting for? Europe’s calling, and Etihad’s got the perfect flight to get you there.

Our fantastic DMC's can help you with your chosen destination - in coming up with a fantastic itinerary to accomodation. 

Air Travel: New Paths Unveiled : New Routes, New Adventures, and Plenty of Legroom (Well, Maybe)

As global air travel continues to recover in 2024, airlines around the world are pulling out all the stops, launching new routes to connect us to far-flung corners of the globe. Whether you’re itching for a quick getaway to a tropical paradise or plotting a sneaky business trip somewhere exotic (we see you!), these airlines have got you covered. Let’s dive into the latest flight paths that’ll get you soaring—literally—from Jetstar’s Perth to Bangkok to Airlink’s brand-new Cape Town to Gaborone service.

Jetstar’s New Perth to Bangkok Route: Bringing Pad Thai Closer

It’s been love-hate relationship with  Jetstar, a budget carrier famous for taking you from point A to point B with a toll that is not exorbitant, because in the year 2024, things are changing. On September 6, the Australian carrier will start operations between Perth and Bangkok, offering up to four flights per week. That means, you might be chomping on some street food in the meandering lanes of Bangkok, yet retaining the “breakfast toastie” from the airline inside you. There is room for adventure!

Why Perth to Bangkok, You Ask?

After family trips to Sydney and Perth, Bangkok is the it destination for anyone who loves crazy streets and markets and fancy temples and has a nightlife that makes your average weekend look like a PTA meeting. Also, with this route being launched, the demand for direct Australia-Southeastern Asia route flights is fulfilled. It is part of a larger scheme to position Perth as a Jetstar operational centre for the Asia Pacific, in addition to their already busy routes of Singapore and Phuket. So if you love low prices on tickets and even more reasons to fly, then Jetstar is the airline for you.

And with a new pilot base covering four Airbus A321LR at Perth Airport, Jetstar is now on a beauty parade with Western Australia. For those who think a tiki souvenir is a bit too much or those who plan a rather spontaneous fly to Bangkok today (or rather relish snacks offered by in-flight managers), would do it now!

Airlink’s Cape Town to Gaborone Route: Diamonds and Table Mountain, Anyone?

Not to be outdone, South Africa’s very own Airlink is giving us something new to look forward to, too. Come 1st April 2025 (and nope not an April fools joke), you will be able to explore direct flight services between Cape Town, South Africa and Gaborone, Botswana, thanks to the South African government and cease-fire. The only thing that gets better than doing away with a layover at an airport? Recognising the fact that the person sitting next to you probably doesn’t even know that either of the two cities on the layover is on the map—bragging rights galore!

Why Fly Cape Town to Gaborone?

If you have ever wanted to shift your base from a wine growing region to one housing diamond mines gradually then this is the time for you. Gaborone is the political center of Botswana and is known to attract lots of business tycoons particularly in the mineral and financial sectors. As for Cape Town, famous for the Table Mountain, more than just beaches and art galleries to safaris, introduction is superfluous. This route works well for both body in suits and ones in pursuit of unhindered sunsets for camera clicks.

Airlink’s Rodger Foster summed it up best: “Cape Town and Gaborone? Dream team.” (Okay, we may have paraphrased a bit there). Expect the airline’s comfy Embraer E140 to zip you across southern Africa with ease—44 seats, no turbulence (we hope), and zero layover drama.

Air Arabia Connects Sharjah to Warsaw: The UAE Meets Pierogi

Even Air Arabia is in a hurry and announces a new service connecting the two cities – Sharjah and Warsaw beginning December 2024. So for those who want dunes and the capital of Poland it’s a Win Win. Operating 5 flights a week means that you could be relaxing in a cafe in Warsaw one day and the next day be immersing yourself in the culture of Sharjah.

This is Air Arabia’s second entry into the Polish market after Krakow. So take your handbag with you as well as the one for the pierogi and extend your gratitude towards Air Arabia for making the East and the West not very far from one another. “Two cities known for their rich history and culture are going to be connected now,” so came the Group CEO of the company, Adel Al Ali, who is pretty stoked about the new route. This translates into: This flight is a must!

Not Every Flight Soars: Transavia France Pulls the Plug on Paris Orly to Pau

Within the ongoing expansion of network after network, however, not all off routes proved useful. Transavia France has chosen to withdraw its service Paris Orly to Pau – for winter 2024, they will take a short break. Let’s be frank, it’s hard to lose some flights, some of them will have to sink and at times, people are just not interested no matter how any endeavors are made.

Ready for Liftoff? Here’s the September 2024 Lineup

If all this travel talk has you itching to book a flight, check out Air Travel: New Paths Unveiled and some of the newest routes for 2024:

Thailand Launches Nihao Month Celebration 2024 to Celebrate 50 Years of Thailand-China Relations

To kick off the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations in 2025 with a bang, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has just rolled out its "Nihao Month"—a two-month fiesta that’s basically a trailer for the blockbuster year-long celebrations to follow. Expect September and October to be jam-packed with festivities that’ll give you a taste of the vibrant and colourful extravaganza on the horizon.

And for the star-studded cherry on top, get ready to spot Chinese heartthrobs Luo Yunxi, DaOu Pittaya Sae-chow, and Mai Davika Hoorne in the mix. It's like the VIP guest list of your dreams, only with more glamour and less waiting in line!

A Celebration of Friendship and Cultural Exchange

The official announcement was made by Mr. Sermsak Pongpanit, Minister of Tourism and Sports, who emphasized the enduring friendship between Thailand and China. “Thailand has had a long standing relationship with China lasting for fifty years now which has birthed flourishing trade ties cultural exchanges through tourism. This festival is designed to promote tourism cooperation between our two countries (among other things), leading up to these both country’s extraordinary festivities marking this notable occasion,” added Mr. Sermsak.

During the ceremony Mr. Sermsak was joined by Mrs. Chang Yumeng – Counsellor for Cultural Affairs with Embassy of People’s Republic China in Thailand; Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool - Governor, TAT; as well as representatives from private sector.

Special Events and Promotions

Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool expressed her excitement towards upcoming celebrations: ‘’For TAT, Nihao month sets the tone for grand festivities planned for the commemoration of 50th Anniversary of Thai-China relations.’’ She said that they should come experience the Mid-Autumn Festival and Golden Week in Thailand, as well as many other special events lined up for them from now until early next year culminating in the Chinese New Year and 50th-year festivities.

TAT has set an ambitious target for "Nihao Month," aiming to attract 250,000 Chinese tourists during the Golden Week alone. These special events and promotions are expected to yield approximately half a billion online interactions, thus furthering solidifying Thailand's reputation of being among top countries that people travel to.

Highlights of Thailand Launches Nihao Month Celebration 2024: 

• KOLs Mega Fam Trip: Beginning in September, TAT will hold a “KOLs Mega Fam Trip” that will invite 100 key opinion leaders from China. These influencers are projected to reach over 100 million views on Little Red Book, Weibo, Douyin and across social media platforms showcasing Thailand’s culture and attractions.
• Amazing Thailand, Mid-Autumn Night: At Parc Paragon Bangkok on September 17th “Amazing Thailand, Mid-Autumn Night” will have Luo Yunxi (China-Thailand Cultural Friendship Ambassador) make appearance as well as Thai stars DaOu Pittaya Sae-chow and Mai Davika Hoorne. For this single event alone more than four hundred million views are projected.
• Sound of Friendship Concert: In October , TAT plans the “Sound of Friendship Concert” at Siam Paragon Bangkok with performances by popular Thai artists. The concerts which will take place on October 5th as well as October 12th will also entail exclusive ‘Meet & Greet’ sessions for lucky fans.
• Collaborative Campaigns: These will involve special promotions through TAT and China’s leading travel platforms such as Ctrip, Fliggy, Meituan, Tongcheng and UnionPay. Special offers will be available between September through December; they include discounts on air tickets, accommodations and tours.
• Chinese Travel Passports Deals: During the dates of 19th September to 31st October, when Chinese tourists visit Thailand they will benefit from exclusive deals at selected shopping malls, spas, duty free shops, transport operators and eating joints where all that they have to do is produce their Chinese passport.

The month of “Nihao” will be an impressive mark of respect for the age-long interaction between China and Thailand with thrilling activities for attendees.

Planning a group trip should be as exciting as the adventure itself. Phoenix Voyages DMC specialise in creating unforgettable journeys tailored to your group's unique interests and needs. Whether you're looking for cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, or seamless logistics, their experienced team is there to make it happen.

Don't leave your next group adventure to chance—contact Phoenix Voyages DMC today and let them turn your travel dreams into reality. Your perfect trip is just a conversation away!

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British Airways Expands Routes to Southeast Asia - 

Bangkok Airways has expanded its codeshare alliance with British Airways, giving travellers from the UK an opportunity to fly directly to several popular tourist destinations in Thailand and Cambodia. Specifically, this means BA passengers can now book a single ticket from London through Bangkok to five spectacular holiday spots including Phuket, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai as well as others.

Key Highlights British Airways Expands Routes to Southeast Asia:

Increased Connectivity:

Expanded Codeshare: This means that customers can connect with ease through Bangkok to five more new places across Thailand and Cambodia they include:

• Phuket (HKT), Thailand
• Koh Samui (USM), Thailand
• Chiang Mai (CNX), Thailand
• Phnom Penh (PNH), Cambodia
• Siem Reap (SAI), Cambodia

London to Bangkok Service: The direct flight from London Gatwick to Bangkok of British Airways will start operating three times weekly on October 29th. From January next year until March it will be available up to five times weekly.

Passenger Benefits:

• Single-Ticket Convenience: A single ticket that includes a stopover in Bangkok before continuing on their journey throughout Thailand or Cambodia is what the customers who choose this alternative are getting.
• Loyalty Rewards: When traveling using one of the above mentioned journeys via BA codeshare flights, Executive Club Members of British Airways will earn both Tier Points and Avios for better travel experience for them. Reward Flights, upgrades, hotel stays, car hire etc can all be redeemed by avios while tier points contribute towards higher status within the Executive Club.

Enhanced Travel Experience:

Bangkok Airways Services: Also known as Asia’s Boutique Airline, amongst other international destinations, Bangkok Airways has wider network within Thailand and flies to Cambodia, Hong Kong, the Maldives, Laos and Singapore. The passengers will get such services like lounge access in some airports and food onboard.

Leadership Insights:

Neil Chernoff, Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at British Airways: “We have our first direct service to Thailand in over four years starting from October so it is a highly awaited reconnection with the global network. As we know this route is going to be particularly attractive to our holiday customers; we are delighted to work hand in hand with Bangkok Airways creating more opportunities for them and improving their accessibility.”

Chulin Kocharoen, Vice President - Network and Product Development of Bangkok Airways: “Through expanding this codeshare partnership with British Airways we were able to strengthen our respective networks by giving both business and leisure travelers an unprecedented convenient access to new gateways.”

Booking Information:

Availability: Starting from October 28th 2024 Codeshare tickets can be booked. This development builds on an existing agreement that provides codeshare traffic between Singapore as well as Koh Samui.

This close cooperation between British Airways (BA) and its partner Bangkok Airways will enhance service delivery by providing more options in terms of routes among other things making it easier for people traveling Southeast Asia’s best locations than ever before.

Why not let our fabulous DMC Phoenix Voyages help plan your next trip to Cambodia or Thailand? They are a top DMC and organises events, activities, incentives and leisure travel. Contact Phoenix Voyages DMC to help put together an awesome itinerary. 

New Airline Routes Launching Worldwide July 2024 - 

As summer travel season begina, airlines are announcing numerous new routes globally in July 2024 that present travellers with more destination options and improve worldwide connections. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most significant additions:

New Connections in Americas

Starting July 6, Aerolineas Argentinas will launch weekly flights from Buenos Aires Aeroparque J. Newbery (AEP) to Porto Seguro (BPS) . This will open up the famous Brazilian coastal city to Argentine tourists who would love to spend their summer vacations there.

From the 1st of July, Aeromexico will introduce an everyday service from Mexico City Juarez (MEX) to Raleigh/Durham (RDU) thus enhancing connectivity between Mexico and the southeastern United States.

Beginning on July 1, United Airlines will operate daily flights between San Francisco (SFO) and Montreal (YUL)  hence improving air transport accessibility between these two major cities.

Also starting on July 3, LATAM Airlines Group is commencing daily flights on Bogota (colombia) (BOG)-Madrid (MAD)-787-8 route for enhanced transatlantic availability.

Alaska Airlines is extending its global footprint by introducing nonstop services from Los Angeles (LAX) to La Paz (Bolivia) (LAP) and Monterrey (Mexico) (MTY) exclusive only beginning February 2025-thus becoming the sole US airline operating a direct flight service into these vibrant Mexican destinations.

Delta Air Lines is set to operate 14 weekly flights between Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) starting July 8th as a move towards improving domestic connectivity.

Expansions in Europe

Once a week Air France willconnect Paris Charles de Gaulle with Kalamata Greece  starting from July 6th thus availing this Greek city to tourists seeking something different.

Effective July 1st,Austrian Airlines will begin six weekly fights from Vienna (VIE) to Boston Logan (BOS) in order to increase the number of transatlantic services.

Eurowings will connect Berlin Brandenburg to Casablanca (Morocco) once a week from July 21st expanding its North Africa destinations list.

By July 4, Ryanair has plans of having twice weekly flights from Bristol (BRS) to Prague (PRG) thus extending its European network.

New Routes in Asia

From the end of July, Air China is starting three weekly trips between Chengdu (TFU)-Milan Malpensa(MXP) so as to increase accessibilities from China into Italy.

China Airlines will start conducting five flights per week from Taipei Taiwan Taoyuan(TPE)/Seattle-Tacoma(SEA) beginning July 14th hence providing more pacific rim connections.

From the first of July, Thai AirAsia will introduce daily services plying Bangkok Don Mueang(DMK)-Beijing Daxing(PKX)-A320neo thus increasing traveling by Thai people to china.

Starting on the 18th of July, Jin Air will launch daily flights Seoul Incheon(ICN)/Panglao(TAG) thus making it easy for tourists wishing to visit the Philippines have access places they want with ease.

Expanding Travel in Africa and Middle-East

Starting on July 23rd, Egyptair begins flying twice every week between Cairo(CAI)/Lisbon(LIS) which adds to European connections.

On the 1st of July, Gulf Air is launching four weekly flights from Bahrain (BAH)/Munich(MUC) thus enhancing air connections between the Middle East and Europe.

A four times a week service from Mombasa (MBA) to Zanzibar (ZNZ) will be commenced by Jambojet on July 1st  as a move to enhance regional connectivity in East Africa.

Long Haul Flights from Australia

Qantas Airways is launching the route between Perth (PER) and Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), which will operate four times weekly,  starting July 12th. This will offer Australian travellers another way of flying long distances to Europe.

These New Airline Routes Launching Worldwide July 2024 are an indication of their determination to spread out their networks and give customers more travel choices. Starting this July, people can now explore numerous fresh places for either business or leisure purposes.

THAI launches flights to Milan and Oslo - 

Thai Airways International – THAI, made history on the 1st of July 2024 by unveiling its new service to Milan and Oslo from Suvarnabhumi International airport in Bangkok. The ceremony was attended by top management officials who gave gifts that were handed over to customers before boarding.

These new routes demonstrate the commitment of THAI to expanding its global network and meeting increasing travel demand between Asia-Pacific and Europe. To facilitate easy movement of people, flight schedules have been arranged as per the following:

Bangkok-Milan Daily Flights:

TG940: Departs at 00:40 hours from Bangkok and arrives Milan at 07:35 hours (local time).

TG941: Departs at14:05 hours from Milan and arrives Bangkok on next day morning at 05:55am.

Bangkok-Oslo Daily Flights:

TG954: Flight departs Bangkok at 00:55 am, arrives Oslo at 07:25 am(local time).

TG955: Flight departs Oslo at14:15hours, arrives in Bangkok by next day morning hour(6;15am)

THAI launches flights to Milan and Oslo

These offerings not only provide more options for passengers but also reinforce their contractual relationship with Star Alliance thereby making it possible for them to switch flights across continents without any hitches. The flights are well positioned to take into consideration both business travelers and tourists hence they offer efficient travel solutions coupled with high-end services.

Therefore, this part highlights international routes launched by Thai airways as a means of strengthening its position in the global aviation sector as one way of improving access into European destinations for travelers originating from Thailand or other parts of Asia Pacific region. The presence of these flights demonstrates an emphasis on customer satisfaction and quality service delivery by THAI which guarantees comfortable trips characterized by punctuality among others features.

Why not plan your next trip to Milan? Conact our DMC in Italy they are more than happy to help plan out the best itinerary for you and your group. 

Austrian Airlines expands Bangkok and Vienna Route

Get ready to spread your wings and fly because Austrian Airlines is ramping up its game between Bangkok and Vienna this winter!  From 7 weekly flights, they’re soaring to an impressive 13, marking an 86% capacity boost that's sure to turn up the heat even in the chilliest of months.

Since way back in 1988, Austrian Airlines has been playing matchmaker between Vienna and Bangkok, satisfying the wanderlust of European adventurers craving a taste of Thailand’s tropical paradise. And let’s be real, with their reputation for top-notch service and a fleet so modern it practically glows, who wouldn’t want to hop on board? And let’s not forget their legendary service—these guys are known for pampering passengers with top-notch treatment and serving up mouthwatering Austrian and international cuisine that’ll have you saying, “Can I have seconds, please?”

But wait, there’s more! Brendan Shashoua, the big boss over at Lufthansa Group as Senior Director Sales for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, couldn’t contain his excitement about Austrian Airlines’ love affair with the Thai market. Remember when they rolled out the A380 on Bangkok-Munich flights last year? Well, consider this capacity boost the icing on the cake! More flights mean more options for Thai travelers itching to explore Europe.

Austrian Airlines expands Bangkok and Vienna Route

Let’s not forget the magic that happens at their Vienna hub. As part of the Star Alliance and Lufthansa Group family, Austrian Airlines is all about playing matchmaker on a global scale. This expansion isn’t just about beefing up their flight schedule—it’s about strengthening bonds with Thailand and doubling down on their commitment to the Asia Pacific region.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of sipping mulled wine in Vienna or strolling through the snowy streets of Salzburg, now’s your chance! With Austrian Airlines leading the charge, your winter wonderland adventure is just a flight away. 

Plan your next get away to Austria

Big British Airways Transformation: New Seats, Routes - 

British Airways, UK’s most well know airline, have £7 billion transformation plan during a showcase event in London, showcasing various upgrades including new seats, routes, and digital offerings. The Developments include as new short-haul seats, complimentary onboard messaging, and revamped digital platforms.

BA announced the return of services from Gatwick (London) to Bangkok, from October 2024 and a daily service from Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur from November 2024.

British Airways new plan will deliver:

• A new First class suite for its A380 aircraft operating across the Atlantic (debuts in 2025)
• 8 new aircrafts with new features/interior
• Return of services from London to Bangkok
• Daily flights to Kuala Lumpur
• New website & app
• Executive Club Member enjoy Free wifi onboard from 3^rd April

Big British Airways Transformation: New Seats, Routes

The investment includes £750 million towards upgrading the airline's IT infrastructure and £100 million in operational efficiencies, all geared towards enhancing the experience for both employees and customers. Among the highlights was the confirmation of a new First class suite for A380 aircraft, set to debut by late 2025, though details remain confidential.

Collaborating with suppliers from England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, British Airways showcased new short-haul seats and cabin interiors for Airbus A320neos and A321neos, including features like USB-A and USB-C power points. Additionally, the airline announced the return of services to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, with flights scheduled to commence later in the year.

A new website and app, currently in the pilot phase, promise enhanced personalisation and self-service options, with initial rollouts expected by year's end. Executive Club members will enjoy complimentary messaging on wifi-enabled flights starting April 3rd, while improved connectivity enables cabin crew to address issues in real-time during flights.

The return of services to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur were also detailed, with flights restarting from Gatwick to the Thai capital in October and a daily service from Heathrow to Malaysia's capital commencing in November.

British Airways also plans to unveil new lounge designs, starting with Dubai Airport later this year, followed by Miami in 2025. CEO Sean Doyle emphasized the airline's commitment to transformation, focusing on improving customer experience, operational efficiency, and sustainability efforts to reduce emissions.

British Airways’s chief executive Sean Doyle.said:

"I've been running BA for three years and the rebuild has been not without its challenges, not just at BA but across the industry," said Doyle. He said the investment programme is "the most significant transformation in our history" and emphasised the "huge focus on operational resilience and punctuality", adding that the airline has already seen a "significant turnaround from where we were six months ago."

He said British Airways are "laser-focused on transforming our business and fixing any pain points"
 
“We’re going to take delivery of new aircraft, introduce new cabins, elevate our customer care, focus on operational performance and address our environmental impact by reducing our emissions and creating a culture of sustainability," 

Why not plan your next Group trip to the United Kingdom with ATS Group

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