Travel Trade Europe, 25 August 2016, Issue 44

25 AUGUST 2016 ISSUE 44

08 SHORT BREAK

03

VENICE

BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT PARK OPENS IN TURKEY

04 UK BOOKINGS ON AN UPWARD TRAJECTORY

07 MICE 13 Airports 17 Travel Channels

MARKET UPDATE

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

EASYJET PERFORMANCE IN LINE WITH EXPECTATIONS

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Rita Kasziba JOURNALISTS Memnon Arestis Ellen Petty CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Dominique Christou SALES & SALES SUPPORT Maria Demetriadou Magda Christou Raluca Apostolescu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Despite a difficult economic and operating environment, easyJet reported higher load factors and advantaged balance sheet for the third quarter of the airline’s fiscal year.

A

n increase in capacity to 21.9 million seats drove a 5.8 percent rise in passenger numbers to 20.2 million.

Total revenue per seat decreased 8.3 percent at constant currency, with total revenue dropping 2.6 percent to GBP1.2 billion (EUR1.43 billion).

During the three-month period, the airline was forced to cancel 1,221 flights due to air traffic control strikes, runway closures at Gatwick Airport and severe weather. The company maintained a strict cost control, its cost per seat, including fuel, improved 3.8 percent, a result of low fuel prices and a strong underlying cost focus.

EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

CZECH AIRLINES: BEST PROFIT RECORD IN A DECADE

WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515 neil@globetm.com Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735 kuka@rmamedia.com Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456 david@simpson-media.com

EXCHANGE RATES

as of

24.8.2016

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1EUR=

US (USD)

Dollar

1.13

UK (GBP)

Pound

0.86

Switzerland (CHF) Franc

1.09

Japan (JPY)

113.34

2

Yen

With an operating profit of CZK47.3 million (EUR1.75 million) in the first six months of the year, Czech Airlines has bounced back on course following an operating loss of CZK154.1 million (EUR5.7 million) in the same period in 2015.

T

otal profit for the carrier reached CZK72.4 million (EUR2.68 million).

“Despite the security issues experienced in Europe and continued competitive pressure on ticket prices, we achieved the best profit record in the last 10 years during the first half of the year,” confessed Jozef Sinčák, chairman, Czech Airlines.

During the first half of the year, a total of 1.01 million passengers flew with Czech Airlines, representing a year-on-year growth of 12 percent.

25 AUGUST 2016

NEWS

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Biggest Entertainment Park Opens in Turkey

T

he leisure project’s highlights include a 43m high water coaster that reaches speeds of 86km/h, a 5D cinema as well as surf and wave pools. Visitors can experience light and water performances within the water world. A variety of sea animals can also be observed on an underwater safari and boat trips.

Situated in Belek, the complex contains the country’s first hotel designed for children, Kingdom, featuring fairy tale influenced rooms and suites equipped with double screen televisions and games consoles.

The Land of Legends Theme Park

A joint venture of Rixos Hotels, Emaar Properties and Dragone Productions, The Land of Legends Theme Park was unveiled in Turkey.

Malta Welcomes Impressive Number of Visitors

Malta

I 25 AUGUST 2016

n the first half of the year, Malta received in excess of 835,000 tourists, with expenditure reaching EUR656 million and average stay standing at seven nights, amounting to 5.85 million total nights.

The number of first time visitors totalled 576,417, leaping 10.3 percent compared to 2015, while the volume of those travelling for holidays soared 11.8 percent and business arrivals increased eight percent. Double-digit growth was registered from the US, Spain, the Netherlands and Scandinavia and numbers from markets such as the UK, Italy, France and Germany also escalated.

June saw a 5.8 percent rise in inbound sightseers and a four percent jump in spending, with total nights surging 8.6 percent year-on-year.

3

NEWS

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Greek Tourism on the Rise

UK Bookings on an Upward Trajectory

L

Santorini

Devon, UK

A

more than 30 percent year-over-year increase in UK hotel room nights has been predicted by Tourico Holidays for the second half (H2) of the year.

The travel brokerage company has already sold some 250,000 overnight stays in the UK this year, indicating a 12 percent year-over-year surge from the US. Likewise, Chinese and German markets that only account for four and six percent of all inbound UK bookings, respectively, showed a growth of over 100 percent in their average daily reservations following the Brexit referendum.

According to Mark Redmond, vice president, Europe, Tourico Holidays, the drop in the value of the British Pound could be strengthening the UK’s travel market, since it attracts both local and international visitors to the destination that was formely considered expensive.

eisure visits in Greece have flourished during the first half of the year (H1), surpassing the equivalent timeframe of 2015.

The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority reported that approximately 5.9 million passengers reached Greek airports up until July, marking a 4.4 percent increase over 2015.

Largely, the boost was witnessed in demand from Russia (22.7 percent), with further significant surges from the UK (8.6 percent), Germany (7.2 percent) and France (6.9 percent), among others.

The most prevalent growth was observed in the airports of Kalamata (14.3 percent), Aktio (13 percent), Corfu (11.5 percent), Mykonos and Heraklion (both 11 percent) and Santorini (10.5 percent).

As reported by the Piraeus Port Authority, 346,256 visitors arrived to the port, signifying a vital rise of 21.6 percent over H1 2015.

Northern Greece in the Spotlight

4

Halkidiki

F

ive Italian journalists visited Thessaloniki and Halkidiki this summer to promote the second-largest Greek city as an ideal city break alternative and to project Halkidiki as a holiday hotspot to the Italian market.

The initiative was supported by the Municipality of Thessaloniki, Halkidiki Tourism Organisation and Ellinair Airlines, to promote the recently-launched new routes from Milan and Verona to Thessaloniki.

To further boost tourist flow, Elena Kountoura, alternate minister, Ministry of Economy, Development and Tourism, visited Pella in an attempt to enhance the area’s position as a holiday destination. During a formal dinner with mayors and private stakeholders, the delegation discussed potential solutions to limitations faced in the area. Kountoura pinpointed the region’s potential for the further development of cultural, religious, agro and sports tourism.

25 AUGUST 2016

NEWS CRUISING

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Launch of TUI’s Mein Schiff 5 The youngest member of TUI Cruises’ fleet, Mein Schiff 5, has been introduced to the public in a festive ceremony in Travemünde, Germany.

T

Mein Schiff 5

he company, which is part of TUI Group, is continuing on its growth trajectory in line with its aim to become one of Europe’s leading providers in the travel industry.

The 295.3m ship which has the capacity to accommodate 2,534 passengers and 1,000 crew members, weighs 99,000 tonnes. The liner’s maiden voyage saw it sail across the Baltic Sea to the Baltic states as part of its summer itinerary.

Royal Caribbean Reinvents Corporate Online Resource

Fred. Olsen’s Boudicca Sails to Southwold

6

R Radiance of the Seas

Southwold

F

red. Olsen Cruise Lines has announced Southwold, Suffolk as its new destination, which will be reached on July 26, 2017, as part of Boudicca’s eight-night Wildlife of England & Scotland venture.

Considered as one of the company’s most classic and prominent ships, Boudicca can carry 880 guests across the globe. In an attempt to make travelling more convenient to its clients, the company has amended its policy and will now accept various types of photographic identification beyond passports.

Neil Herbert, head of sales, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, shared the firm’s excitement about being the only cruise line based in the county and across East Anglia.

oyal Caribbean International has launched a new website for corporate meetings, incentives and events planners.

With a new look, the digital hub now offers a fully integrated process with enhanced search functionality, exclusive planning tools and customisable options that allow organisers to quickly find a destination and functions that meet their needs. Professionals can use a range of devices to gather information and request proposal forms based on their group criteria.

Royal Caribbean International offers dedicated conference facilities onboard 25 ships, complimented with the assistance of an event planning team, a variety of event spaces and high-speed Internet.

25 AUGUST 2016

NEWS MICE

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Messe Frankfurt Hails 2015 as Best Year Messe Frankfurt Group has referred to 2015 as its most successful year on record, with sales reaching approximately EUR648 million and annual net income settling at EUR38.2 millions.

T

Messe Frankfurt

he year concluded after hosting 133 worldwide trade fairs and exhibitions that attracted around 90,800 exhibitors. The company’s notable events include Heimtextil, Christmasworld, and Creativeworld on a local level and Ambiente and Automechanika on an international scale.

Carrying on from the success of 2015, the first half of this year saw the event specialist perform at a high level, with plans to continue its market share expansion, while maintaining increased profitability.

Although the group remains positive in regards to its future success, Wolfgang Marzin, president, Messe Frankfurt, considers international, economic and political situations as a mediator.

Riga to Host Baltic Connecting

H

ailed as one of the most important events for the regional tourism sector, Baltic Connecting 2016 will give travel trade professionals the chance to network and learn about the offerings of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia.

The 10th edition of the event will acquaint industry experts with the region and provide opportunities to meet potential cooperation partners through business-to-business meetings. Colleagues from Japan, US, China and South Korea are expected to attend.

CCD to Host Paediatric Conference

T

he ninth Europaediatric conference will be held at The Convention Centre Dublin (CCD) in 2019.

The faculty of paediatrics, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland was selected to host the congress, known as the flagship event of the European Paediatric Association, the Union of National European Paediatric Societies and Associations.

Organisers are expecting approximately 3,000 healthcare professionals from around the world to attend. The four-day event, which takes place every two years, is anticipated to generate an estimated revenue of EUR4.5 million.

25 AUGUST 2016

7

SHORT BREAK VENICE

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

ETERNAL

Romance BASKING IN THE GLOBAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT FOLLOWING SEVERAL RECENT CELEBRITY WEDDINGS, VENICE ENTICES COUPLES FROM ACROSS THE WORLD WITH ITS UNIQUE INTERPRETATION OF ROMANCE AND LUXURY. WHILE ITS AESTHETIC APPEAL IS BEYOND ANY DOUBT, THERE IS MORE TO THE CITY’S ALLURE THAN JUST A PRETTY FAÇADE.

ANA MLADENOVIC WRITES

“V

enice has always been a destination for celebrity weddings,” said Antonello De Medici, area manager, Venice, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, adding that the recent high-profile nuptials confirmed the destination’s prominence as one of the most romantic cities in the world, which, as he noted, holds a special place in the hearts of artists, movie stars, magnates as well as royalty.

The attractiveness of Venice for couples from across the globe is not new, as it was also underlined by Benedikt Jaschke, general manager, San Clemente Palace Kempinski, who believes that the destination is one of the most dreamed of locations by brides and grooms alike.

“The recent celebrity weddings confirm that this is not a cliché,” he explained, expressing his view that the international echo of these events has certainly freshened up the image of Venice as a perfect romantic place for the big day.

8

VENICE IN BRIEF Country: Italy Language: Italian Currency: Euro (EUR) Population: 260,000 Calling Code: +39 41 Time Zone: GMT + 1:00

25 AUGUST 2016

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

SHORT BREAK VENICE

A BOUNTIFUL NICHE While the economic impact of such global publicity is yet to be felt in the city, the importance of high-profile events is obvious when the volume of business local hoteliers receive from this lucrative niche segment is taken into consideration.

“Weddings and honeymoons, together with special anniversary celebrations, are an important part of our business,” revealed De Medici.

“The numbers continue to increase each year, confirming [Venice’s] appeal as a destination where romance can be found in every corner of the city and its islands,” he added.

Showcasing just how crucial the sector is to local industry stakeholders, the management of the centrally located Hotel Metropole attributes roughly one fifth of total business to the weddings sector, revealed Valentina Tommasi, press officer, Hotel Metropole, while at the palatial Ca’Sagredo Hotel this amounts to 15 percent, Lorenza Lain, general manager, Ca’Sagredo Hotel, confirmed.

“Venice offers a vast choice of accommodation for all pockets, and an important number of venues, both private and public, [that] are suitable for exclusive events, celebrations and both religious and civil weddings,” divulged De Medici.

In addition to this, as he further elucidated, the city is easily accessible by plane, train, ship and car, with an increasing number of international airlines flying directly to Venice Marco Polo Airport, which offers exceptional facilities and ground handling services for private jets.

“Lastly, Venice is a great starting point for couples and their guests who wish to continue their journey in Italy and Europe,” reminded De Medici.

UNIQUENESS AND CONVENIENCE THE WOW FACTOR Without doubt, the Italian destination is ‘the’ place to get married, yet one may wonder what makes it so popular – especially amongst the world’s elite.

According to Tommasi, it is the fact that Venice is a city without major traffic jams.

“Moving throughout the city with taxi or gondolas for the VIPs and their guests seems not to be a problem for people who are used to move by car. On the contrary, it is another added value that allows the guest to deeply experience the uniqueness of Venice,” she enthused.

For others, it is the versatility that allows the destination to cater to various types of weddings, ranging in size and budget.

25 AUGUST APRIL 2016 2016

While some would argue that there are other versatile and just as well-connected destinations in the country and beyond, very few would be on par with the unique allure of the Venetian venues.

San Clemente Palace Kempinski is for example set on a private island in the heart of Venetian Lagoon, just minutes away from St. Mark’s Square.

“Our property accommodates both small parties and larger services with up to 1,200 guests,” boasted Jaschke, highlighting that the property’s ceremony sites include the 12th century San Clemente Church, the island’s centuries-old park and intimate, romantic spots such as the Sunset Hill overlooking the city.

Speaking of yet another popular choice, Andrea Di Maso, sales and marketing manager, Aman Venice, said, “Our hotel has been built in 1550. It has always been inhabited by noble and aristocratic people, and even today, the owners are the count and the countess Arrivabene, and they still live in the palace.”

It is the deeply authentic and unrivalled assets like these that set Venice apart.

In the words of Jaschke; “The historical buildings, the canals, and the Italian flair; Venice is a unique destination that creates remarkable memories.” 

9

NEWS TECHNOLOGY

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Sabre Announces Integrated Business Application Sabre has begun to develop a new mobile platform which aims to lower costs for corporate travellers, by allowing users to manage itineraries, control policy compliant mid-trip bookings and handle payments and expenses.

T

he technology intends to simplify travel management processes, with its ability to intergrate with any expense management system, allowing corporations to import data to existing travel programmes.

Global Business Travel Association and Sabre conducted a survey which revealed that business people use technology to ease travel, but are constrained to multiple mobile applications. Sabre aspires to enhance traveller satisfaction by offering a seamless resource where users can tailor make their trips.

Travelport and Aeroflot Sign Agreement

T

ravelport and Aeroflot have entered into a long-term, full content deal, allowing the Russian carrier to continue utilising the technology provider’s innovative airline merchandising solution, Travelport Rich Content and Branding.

Commenting on the partnership, David Gomes, commercial director, air commerce, Travelport, remarked, “Aeroflot has recognised the value in our travel commerce platform and the ability it gives the airline to successfully explain and showcase its full offering to travel agents. Those agents can sell Aeroflot’s products and services more effectively to the end traveller as a result. Aeroflot is a highly respected Travelport customer and we look forward to continuing our partnership and helping them to grow their business.”

10

Travix to Benefit from Travelport Solution

T

ravelport and Travix have reached an agreement whereby the European online travel agency will gain access to the technology provider’s Universal Application Programming Interface (Universal API).

In terms of the deal, Travix will leverage a plethora of industry-related information, including fares and ancillaries from some of the finest low-cost carriers, while also benefitting from the ability to implement new services that will enhance the customer booking experience.

With five brands and operations based in 32 countries, the Dutch company will also adopt the travel commerce platform’s airline merchandising capacities.

Through Travelport’s Universal API, online agencies can receive content from multiple sources compiled into a cohesive display for the buyer.

Expedia Partners with SilverRail

I

n partnership with SilverRail, and supported by Association of Train Operating Companies and Rail Delivery Group, Expedia customers will be able to purchase rail tickets throughout Great Britain alongside the travel options already on offer.

Commencing this autumn, the availability of rail on Expedia’s website will mark the first time a global, full-service online travel agency introduces a rail component in addition to other products such as air, hotel, car rental, activities and packages.

“Rail is a unique platform and our partners have been great in ensuring a seamless entrance into the market and delivering high customer value as well,” said Greg Schulze, senior vice president, commercial strategy and services, Expedia.

25 AUGUST 2016

NEWS ACCOMMODATION

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Dual-branded Hotel Development Near Heathrow InterContinental Hotels Group announced the signing of a dual-branded project in close proximity to Heathrow Airport. The two properties, Holiday Inn London - Heathrow Bath Road and Staybridge Suites London - Heathrow Bath Road, will operate under a franchise agreement with Bathroad Corp Sarl.

D

ue to open in 2018, the 190-room Staybridge Suites address will offer fully-equipped kitchens, large work areas, and free Wi-Fi. Holiday Inn London - Heathrow Bath Road will feature the brand’s signature lobby, which combines the front desk, restaurant, bar, lounge area and a business centre into one open space.

The two hotels will also contain seven meeting rooms, an onsite gym each and over 300 parking spaces.

Holiday Inn Express to Open in Newcastle

Sheraton to Return to Mayfair

I

nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and international investment company Pro-invest Group have signed a franchise agreement for a 170room Holiday Inn Express property in Newcastle’s city centre.

Scheduled to open early 2018, Holiday Inn Express Newcastle will be conveniently located on King Street in the city’s commercial precinct, adjacent to downtown and within walking distance from a number of food and beverage outlets and Market Town Shopping Centre.

S

heraton Grand London Park Lane is set to open this October following a multi-million Euro top-to-bottom restoration project.

The 303-room property has undergone a complete transformation of its guest rooms and public spaces.

The renovated premises feature an additional 43 club rooms and suites, which offer exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge, a private space where guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, drinks and snacks during the day, the taste of The Palm Court afternoon tea, a full bar and evening canapés. For business travellers, the units also include complimentary use of a private meeting room. The hotel also boasts a new Italian restaurant, Mercante.

Hotel Royal Savoy Lausanne Presents Spa

T

Sheraton Grand London Park Lane

25 AUGUST 2016

he five-star Hotel Royal Savoy Lausanne has introduced Spa Du Royal, which offers a diverse assortment of massages and beauty treatments in collaboration with exclusive brands.

Spanning over 1,500m2, the modern facility features a ladies-only space, offering privacy and relaxation. The beauty and wellness area in the hotel’s Garden Wing includes a hairdressing studio, spa boutique and a fitness room, complete with a professional trainer. The wet zone encompasses both indoor and outdoor pools, vitality pools in addition to numerous Hammams, saunas and steam rooms. For guests desiring a more personal experience, a private spa suite is available, with a couples’ treatment area, a Jacuzzi as well as sauna and steam rooms.

11

NEWS ACCOMMODATION

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

UK RevPAR Improves After a Volatile 15 Years

H

London

otStats, a hotel benchmark service provider, has released a detailed report, Benchmarking Beyond RevPAR, analysing the evolution of the UK hotel market between 2000 – 2015, with findings showing a 29.4 percent rise in RevPAR, led by record room occupancy and growth in average room rate.

Hampered by limited ancillary revenue increases, there was a 12.8 percent boost in total RevPAR, surpassed by a 54.2 percent surge of the combined costs of direct expenses, payroll and undistributed operating expenses. In particular, the 80 percent growth in national minimum wage from 2000, has notably outpaced total RevPAR, a trend that is likely to continue due to the ongoing implementation of the living wage.

Since 2000, operating costs have soared 53 percent resulting in a five percent drop in rooms profit conversion. Profit conversion has fallen to 29.6 percent of the total revenue which represents a 24.3 gross operating profit per available room decline, in comparison to 44.2 percent in 2000.

Top performance at regional hotels plummeted to GBP47.52 (EUR56.46) in 2009, but rose in line with the return of economic stability, achieving a 24.1 percent uplift by the end of 2015.

Properties in London were subject to a turbulent 15 years, experiencing declining visitor numbers, with the corporate sector’s volume falling 18.3 percent in the three years leading to 2003. By 2015, the capital ultimately recorded a 37 percent RevPAR growth despite 50,000 new rooms, and in that year, hoteliers documented the highest-ever total RevPAR of GBP143.04 (EUR169.94).

Paris to Welcome First Kimpton Hotel

Crowne Plaza Yerevan to Open in 2018

I

12

I Paris

Yerevan

nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed Crowne Plaza Yerevan, to be operated under a management agreement with Hotel SR. Due to open in 2018, the Armenian property will offer two suites, 12 club rooms and 84 standard keys, as well as a lobby bar and a restaurant. For corporate meetings and events, IHG’s latest addition to the region will also feature 120m2 of conference space and an 18m2 board room.

Stanislav Hambartsumyan, director, Hotel SR, commented, “Yerevan’s popularity among domestic and international travellers is on the rise, attracting both guests who come for business and for leisure. With business activity in the city gaining momentum, we could not imagine a better time to introduce Crowne Plaza to Yerevan.”

nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced plans for the first Kimpton hotel in Paris, set to open in 2020.

The building will be fully transformed with the brand’s signature bold and playful design to feature 149 rooms including 27 suites, luxury spa and fitness facilities and state-of-the-art meeting space.

Guests will be welcomed with small personal touches such as yoga mats in every room, complimentary coffee and tea to start the day, a hosted evening wine hour, in-room fitness options and the use of bikes to explore the local area.

Angela Brav, CEO, Europe, IHG, said, “This hotel will have one of the most coveted addresses in the city […].”

25 AUGUST 2016

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

NEWS AIRPORTS

1.17 Million Travel from Edinburgh in June

E

dinburgh Airport experienced its busiest June ever, with some 1.17 million travellers passing through the hub, signifying a 6.8 percent increase over the same month in 2015.

“Our continual growth underlines the need for Edinburgh Airport to adapt so we can accommodate the ever-increasing

number of people wanting to fly in and out of Scotland’s capital city,” stated Gordon Dewar, CEO, Edinburgh Airport.

The management is currently engaged in the initial consultation stage of an Airspace Change Programme, revealed Dewar, calling on travellers to voice their opinion regarding the future design of the airport.

Edinburgh

Heathrow Reports Strong Six-month Performance

R

evenue surged one percent to GBP1.32 billion (EUR1.58 billion) while adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation stood at GBP781 million (EUR933 million), a rise of 4.4 percent, at London’s Heathrow Airport in the first half of the year.

During the six-month period, the airfield welcomed 35.7 million passengers, a 0.6 percent year-on-year increase, while cargo volumes grew 1.7 percent.

Along with parliamentary support, Airports Commission has suggested that the hub is to meet or exceed the conditions for development. Despite uncertainty following the European Union referendum, John Holland-Kaye, CEO, Heathrow Airport, insisted that the expansion will help the country to be one of the world’s leading trading nations.

25 AUGUST 2016

13

NEWS AIRPORTS

Munich Airport: Two New Jobs per Day

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

New Glasgow Airport Express Launched

Munich Airport

L

inking the airport to the city centre, the 10 new premium buses run 24 hours a day, 364 days a year with a maximum frequency of every 10 minutes.

The service operator, First Glasgow invested GBP2.1 million (EUR2.5 million) into vehicles that feature 4G Wi-Fi, USB charging points and display screens that show a welcome video as well as stop information and announcements. The Euro VI engines emit 95 percent less oxides of nitrogen, contributing to the improvement of air quality in Glasgow.

The 15-minute service, previously named Glasgow Shuttle, transports 15,500 passengers a week, a 30 percent rise since its launch in 2011.

Glasgow Airport Express bus

M

unich Airport’s latest employment survey revealed that over the past three years the number of staff increased by 2,470 members, meaning that every day 2.25 new jobs are created at the German hub.

There are now 34,720 employees working at the airfield across 550 companies, with Lufthansa Group being the biggest employer with some 11,000 workers.

Since the first review in 1994, the number of apprenticeships has nearly tripled, meaning that 660 young people are currently being trained in 45 different fields.

With higher average salaries and almost 90 percent of employees receiving social security, compared to 72 percent across Germany, many towns and districts of Bavaria are benefitting from the airport’s operations.

5.6 Million Passengers at Václav Havel Airport

14

Prague

S

ome 5.6 million travellers passed through the gates of Václav Havel Airport, Prague during the first half of the year, marking a 6.8 percent increase over the same period in 2015.

The UK, the Netherlands, Spain, France and Israel were among the countries with the greatest surges in volumes.

The positive development was mainly attributed to new services that had not been available in 2015.

Cargo volumes showed an even more impressive change with figures up 42.6 percent to 33,000 tonnes.

25 AUGUST 2016

NEWS AIR

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Pisa Welcomes Qatar Airways

Glasgow Airport Express bus

Qatar Airways has further extended its European reach with the introduction of scheduled services between Doha and Pisa.

T

he flight was greeted by a celebratory water canon salute and a welcome ceremony with flags and drums.

Pisa is the fourth city in Italy to be served by the Gulf carrieer, with daily flights.

Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “Pisa is an important addition to our route map, strengthening our ties with the people of Italy […]. We are equally delighted to be giving our loyal passengers from around the globe the chance to visit the beautiful city of Pisa and the surrounding region of Tuscany.”

Ryanair Announces Liverpool – Marrakech Route

Flybe Cardiff – Berlin Route to Commence Earlier

Air Moldova to Serve Brussels

D

25 AUGUST 2016

Brandenburg Gate, Berlin

A

ir Moldova is to extend its route map with the introduction of flights to the Belgian capital.

Starting October 11, the Chisinau – Brussels service will be operated twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The new destination will offer travellers from the capital of Moldova the chance to visit the modern city of Belgium with an abundance of attractions including, the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the Gothic Old Town Hall.

Brussels

R

yanair has increased its upcoming winter schedule with twice weekly flights from Liverpool to Marrakech, commencing on October 31.

The airline, that earlier added a new route to Sofia, predicts that its Liverpool winter agenda, comprising of 25 itinerarirs and 95 weekly take offs, will provide 1,400 onsite jobs at the UK airport and carry 1.9 million customers per year.

Robin Tudor, head of public relations, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, said, “This growth reaffirms the airport’s commitment to expanding international connections for the region, providing more choice to the travelling public.”

ue to high customer demand, Flybe has announced that its itinerary between the Welsh capital and Berlin Tegel Airport will start with a once weekly Saturday service on October 01.

After the temporary four week period, the new winter service will begin, as originally planned, on November 02 with two flights per week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, enhancing travel options and connections between the two destinations.

Flybe, one of Europe’s largest regional airlines, serves 10 countries from 75 departure points covering some 218 itineraries.

15

NEWS AIR

Christian Schleifer-Heingärtner (left) with Rafael Schvartzman, regional vice president, Europe, IATA

IATA Obtains Full EUROCAE Membership

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Norwegian and No1 Lounge Team Up

I

n order to advance its objectives for safe, secure and sustainable air travel, International Air Transport Association (IATA) has become a full member of the European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment (EUROCAE).

IATA will benefit from its involvement in the European entity through increased efficiency across the aviation value chain, reduced ground system fragmentation, further progress on the Single European Sky, as well as lower costs of modernising infrastructure and global interoperability for aircraft systems.

Christian Schleifer-Heingärtner, general secretary, EUROCAE, highlighted the importance of IATA’s induction for the technical standardisation activities and the organisation as a whole.

Wizz Air Adds A320 to Cluj-Napoca

N

orwegian has partnered with No1 Traveller to give the airline’s loyalty scheme members 15 percent discount at several UK airport lounges.

Norwegian reward members can access the facilities at Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport, as well as in Edinburgh and Birmingham, with premium security lane access at the latter three. Upon purchase, customers will collect 25 CashPoints which can be claimed against the cost of flight bookings, seat reservations and checked baggage.

Premium passengers will also automatically receive access to No1 Lounge at Gatwick Airport’s south terminal when flying to the UK.

BLUE MED Assess FAB Performances

T

16

Cluj-Napoca

W

izz Air has inaugurated its newest Airbus A320 to its base at Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport, located in Romania’s second largest city.

With new schedules to Doncaster, Billund and Alicante recently launched, the new jet will support these operations as well as the carrier’s first domestic route to Bucharest which will see 10 frequencies a week from October 31.

Wizz Air invested EUR98 million in the aircraft which will boost the total number of staff in Cluj-Napoca to 179 and support a further 3,300 jobs in associated industries throughout Romania. Customers can travel on 28 routes to 13 different countries from the Transylvanian destination.

he governing board of BLUE MED, one of the European Union mandated functional airspace block (FAB) initiatives, met in Valletta, Malta in July to review the first two months of this year’s summer.

As a result of measures recently implemented to increase capacity, the improvement in delay figures were seen as encouraging. The data was used to revise the capacity section in the RP2 BLUE MED performance plan.

FAB’s objective is to organise airspace, regardless of territorial boundaries while reducing environmental impact, improving capacity, enhancing safety and lowering service costs.

BLUE MED members include Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Malta, with Albania, Egypt, Jordan and Tunisia as observers.

25 AUGUST 2016

TRAVEL CHANNELS

Trainee guide dogs on Coca-Cola London Eye

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

GROWING VISITOR NUMBERS AT RIGA ZOO

GUIDE DOGS RIDE ON LONDON EYE

A

s part of their training, puppies and volunteers from the Medway branch of Guide Dogs for the Blind rode the Coca-Cola London Eye. The outing aimed to familiarise the young animals with crowded places, and formed part of the exercises they take part in to ensure they are confident in a range of situations. The puppies begin their schooling at seven weeks old before qualifying as a working guide dog at the age of two.

Riga Zoo

BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP ONBOARD CARNIVAL SHIPS

C

I

n 2015, Riga Zoo welcomed over 336,000 visitors, some of its highest attendance numbers in recent years.

Located in one of the Latvian capital’s greenest neighbourhoods, the establishment has been open since 1912, and is a member of the European Zoo and Aquarium Association. Hailed as one of Europe’s 100 best zoos, Riga Zoo is home to 380 different species of animals. Apart from domestic favourites, there is a giraffe house, a tropical house and a tiger’s lair, which are some of the most popular attractions.

The Aizpute branch also received a growing number of visitors, with 15,000 tickets sold in 2015.

St. Jude’s bear

RAISING MONEY FOR THE BRAIN TUMOUR CHARITY

arnival Cruise Line has collaborated with Build-A-Bear Workshop to launch a retailentertainment experience aboard its ships.

The pop-up shops are set up at specific times throughout the cruises with each voyage hosting a Build-A-Bear party with music, bearthemed food and photo opportunities. Children will be able to create a variety of customisable soft toys, including a charity bear with profits going to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Consumers can record their own voice to place inside the toy, stuff it themselves and purchase an assortment of accessories.

The initiative has been launched on Carnival Dream and is projected to be rolled out on all vessels in the fleet by summer 2017.

F

our Seasons Hotel Hampshire will host its annual Terry Fox Run of Hopein October in support of the Terry Fox Foundation and the Hampshire-based Brain Tumour Charity.

Teaming up with its sister property Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, the establishments will be raising funds for of the charities.

Visitors of all ages are welcome to run or walk the 5km or 2km routes around Dogmersfield Park, the hotel’s estate, and enjoy an afternoon of live music, food and recreational activities, all for a good cause.

The Terry Fox Foundation continues in memory of Terry Fox, a Canadian cancer victim who ran more than 5,000km in 143 days with a prosthetic limb to raise money for cancer research.

Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire

25 AUGUST 2016

17

TOURISM MINISTER, CROATIA

We are supporting businesses from every corner of Britain “As the UK’s biggest port, we are supporting businesses from every corner of Britain to get their products to global markets, with cargo volumes up by almost two percent [in the first half of the year].

Now Britain needs a positive post-Brexit plan and only Heathrow’s expansion will help Britain to be one of the world’s leading trading nations – connecting all of Britain to global growth. Heathrow has a new plan for expansion, allowing the prime minister to make the right choice in the national interest.”

CEO, MESSE FRANKFURT

WOLFGANG MARZIN

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

“Croatia has always been a car destination, meaning most of our guests come from neighboring countries. Although the share of the guests that come from for example Austria and Germany approximately remains as before, trends from distant markets are definitely changing for the better. The number of arrivals from the US has increased almost 150 percent during the last five years, with a total of 300,000 guests.

Also over 300,000 guests from Korea have visited us during 2015, […], an increase of 1,800 percent.”

Our long-term […] strategy is paying off

“Our overall corporate concept is the right one, and our long-term Messe Frankfurt 2020 corporate strategy is paying off. We have the scope we need for further investments in the brand values of the Messe Frankfurt Group. […] Messe Frankfurt Group is well situated both strategically and financially. Whether we will reach our intermediate and long-term targets depends in no small degree on the international economic and political situation.”

Beach cleans can take place all year round

Trends from distant markets are definitely changing for the better

DIRECTOR, DESTINATIONS AND SUSTAINABILITY, ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH TRAVEL AGENTS

NIKKI WHITE

ANTON KLIMAN

CEO, HEATHROW AIRPORT

JOHN HOLLAND-KAYE

TRAVEL TALK

“We are delighted with the success of this year’s Make Holidays Greener month. It is fantastic to see so many people taking part in a beach clean and showing that they care about their environment. Cleaner, greener beaches are good for tourism and our industry is uniquely placed to make a difference to coastal regions and beaches globally. Of course beach cleans can take place all year round and I would encourage anybody thinking of taking part to join in.”

TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories.

We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

18

25 AUGUST 2016

the

PHOTO ALBUM

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

A wooden plane sculpted to mark five years of Jet2.com flying from Glasgow Airport has been donated to St Vincent’s Hospice

An Airbus A320 with CSKA Moscow livery joined the Aeroflot fleet

Take a Shot!

Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.

Brussels Airlines flew party-goers to popular event Tomorrowland

An easyJet passenger popped the question in the skies

25 AUGUST 2016

Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...

A brand-new Mr Men character, Mr Adventure has been launched at London's Heathrow Airport

Passengers joined the Royal Scottish National Orchestra in helping Glasgow Airport celebrate its 50th anniversary

19

NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS

www.traveltradeeurope.travel

Edinburgh Event Benefits Tourism

IFTM TOP RESA Paris, France September 20 – 23 www.iftm.fr Reed Expositions France puts together a happening that over the years has become a multitarget market show for all travel types.

C Edinburgh

ommissioned by event organisers and produced by independent BOP Consulting, the 2015 Impact Study demonstrates the positive influence Edinburgh’s Festivals has on Scotland, in particular on accommodation as well as food and drink businesses.

In 2015, the gala generated GBP280 million (EUR334 million) in the capital and a further GBP313 million (EU373 million) in Scotland, up 19 percent and 24 percent, respectively, compared to 2010. With audience numbers peaking above 4.5 million, the festival is one of Scotland’s leading cultural programmes.

The survey questioned 29,273 individuals, with findings showing that 94 percent thinks that the annual event makes Edinburgh special and 95 percent claiming that it is of a high calibre.

MOSCOW MED SHOW Moscow, Russia September 30 – October 01 www.medshow.ru A professional event with a highly targeted promotional campaign which brings clinics and medical tourism providers into direct contact with potential patients.

Growth for ibtm world

UKRAINE INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL MARKET (UITM)

20

T

his year’s ibtm world, taking place between November 29 – December 01 in Barcelona, will see the expansion of the Innovation Zone as well as the introduction of a Technology & Event Services Zone.

The area dedicated to innovation is expected to have many new exhibitors, featuring interactive experiences, demonstrating solutions, applications and technologies geared towards solving specific meetings and events industry challenges. It will offer a unique tourism showcase of the latest innovations impacting the industry now and in the future.

Additionally, for the first time, EventMB will partner with ibtm world this year to present the Technology and Innovation Award, which, according to Graeme Barnett, senior exhibition director, ibtm world, will support 10 start ups with greater industry presence and potential.

Barcelona

Kiev, Ukraine October 05 – 07 www.ukraine-itm.com.ua Tour operators and travel agencies, various seminars and conferences make the annual programme a must-attend event.

25 AUGUST 2016