News

FlyDubai Eyes Entry into Indian Skies via Go First Tie-Up

FlyDubai is exploring an entry into India’s domestic airline market via Go First. Busy Bee Airways has bid ₹1,000 crore to acquire Go First’s trademarks & flying rights. FDI rules allow up to 49% automatic investment in domestic airlines; beyond that needs government approval. EaseMyTrip’s Nishant Pitti had earlier bid ₹1,800 crore for Go First’s intellectual properties. India’s aviation sector is set for a shake-up with new players entering the market. FlyDubai’s Interest: A Game-Changer for Indian Aviation? Dubai-based low-cost carrier FlyDubai is in talks to partner with Busy Bee Airways to start a domestic airline in India. The deal could see FlyDubai enter India’s high-growth aviation market via the defunct airline Go First. Busy Bee Airways is negotiating with Go First’s creditors to acquire its trademarks, flying rights, and airport slots. FlyDubai could enter India’s domestic market through a partnership model. Why This Matters: FlyDubai is owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), making it a government-backed carrier. This move aligns with India’s growing demand for air travel and increasing competition in the aviation sector. What’s FlyDubai’s Strategy? According to industry insiders, FlyDubai is not interested in Go First’s physical assets (such as its land in Thane). Instead, it is targeting: Go First’s flying licence & air traffic rights Bilateral & domestic flying slots Trademarks & online assets (like the Go First website) A senior banker involved in the discussions said, “The bidder is primarily focused on acquiring the brand associated with Go First rather than its assets.” Busy Bee Airways, originally incorporated in 2017 by Pran Sathiadasan (a senior FlyDubai executive), is leading the charge to acquire Go First’s brand and launch a new airline in India. FDI Rules & Regulatory Challenges What Does India’s FDI Policy Say About Airline Investments? 100% FDI is allowed in Scheduled Air Transport Services & Domestic Scheduled Passenger Airlines. Up to 49% FDI is permitted through the automatic route. Beyond 49% requires government approval. 100% FDI is allowed for NRIs under the automatic route. Why This Matters: If FlyDubai wants majority control, it will need government clearance. Busy Bee Airways (an Indian entity) could help FlyDubai navigate the FDI restrictions. Busy Bee vs. EaseMyTrip: The Bidding War for Go First Busy Bee Airways’ Bid ₹1,000 crore bid for Go First’s trademarks & flying rights. Wants to revive Go First as a new airline brand. Focused on partnerships with global carriers like FlyDubai. EaseMyTrip’s Nishant Pitti’s Bid Earlier bid ₹1,600 crore, later raised to ₹1,800 crore. Wanted to revive Go First under new management. Pitti recently stepped down as CEO of EaseMyTrip but remains active in aviation investments. Busy Bee’s case will be heard by NCLAT on February 19 to determine if its bid can move forward. What’s Next? Will Go First Take Off Again? Potential Outcomes: If Busy Bee & FlyDubai succeed, India may get a new domestic airline under the Go First brand. If the deal collapses, Go First may face complete liquidation. If the DGCA revokes Go First’s airport slots permanently, reviving the airline could become impossible.

Read more

Bali Elevates Island Travel with Nature, Culture & Hospitality

Bali has risen to the pinnacle as the most visually captivating island on the planet, according to a recent analysis by a well-known British travel platform. The study reviewed forty-five popular long-distance island destinations, ranking them based on the volume of Instagram hashtags associated with each location. Bali outshone all others with a remarkable seventy-five million hashtags, significantly ahead of Sri Lanka’s eighteen million and Cuba’s fifteen million. This overwhelming social media presence highlights Bali’s status as a favorite destination for travelers seeking a blend of stunning natural scenery and rich cultural experiences. Situated in Indonesia, Bali is celebrated for its expansive golden beaches that draw beach lovers, surfers, and sun seekers from across the globe. However, the island’s allure extends far beyond its shores. Scattered throughout Bali are ancient Hindu temples that serve both as spiritual sanctuaries and cultural landmarks. These sites offer a glimpse into the island’s deep-rooted Hindu-Balinese traditions, a vibrant cultural tapestry that continues to thrive and enchant visitors seeking authentic local experiences.

Read more

Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala Lead Himachal’s 2025 Tourism Surge

The hills of Himachal Pradesh are once again buzzing with the vibrant movement of travelers, signaling a welcome revival for one of India’s most beloved mountain destinations. As geopolitical tensions along the India-Pakistan border subside and an intense heatwave sweeps across the country, vacationers are flocking to the cool serenity of the Himalayan foothills in search of relief and relaxation. This renewed influx of tourists comes after a temporary slump caused by regional uncertainty, and it is now breathing new life into the state’s tourism economy. With major hill stations like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala seeing a rise in footfall, the outlook for Himachal Pradesh’s summer travel season appears increasingly optimistic, offering much-needed momentum for the local hospitality sector. The return of peace in the northern border region has eased travel hesitations, allowing Himachal Pradesh to regain its standing as one of the country’s top summer escapes. With temperatures climbing to oppressive levels in major cities and plains, vacationers are flocking to the state’s popular high-altitude destinations in growing numbers.

Read more

Etihad to Launch Abu Dhabi–Charlotte Nonstop Flights in May 2026

Etihad Airways (IATA: EY), the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the launch of a new nonstop route connecting Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) with Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in North Carolina, USA. The service is scheduled to commence on May 4, 2026, marking the first-ever direct flight between the Gulf region and Charlotte, one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. This new route represents a significant milestone in Etihad’s expanding global network and further strengthens its footprint in the competitive U.S. aviation market. Charlotte Douglas International Airport becomes Etihad’s sixth destination in the U.S., joining New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., Boston, and the soon-to-be-launched Atlanta route starting July 2, 2025. Flight Details and Passenger Experience The Abu Dhabi–Charlotte flights will operate four times a week using Etihad’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner, an aircraft known for its fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and advanced technology. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner features spacious cabins with enhanced air quality, mood lighting, and a quieter cabin environment designed to reduce jet lag and improve the overall travel experience. Passengers on this new route will benefit from convenient onward connections via Etihad’s extensive Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Asia networks, offering seamless global travel options. A key advantage for travelers flying to Charlotte is the availability of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance at Abu Dhabi International Airport. This service allows passengers to complete U.S. customs and immigration inspections before boarding their flight. As a result, travelers arrive in Charlotte as domestic passengers, enabling faster processing, avoiding long queues, and easing onward travel within the United States.

Read more

StarCruises Launches Vietnam’s Star Voyager Summer Sailings to Singapore

StarCruises today hosted a special press conference in Ho Chi Minh City to announce its much-anticipated launch in Vietnam, featuring three exclusive school holiday sailings aboard the Star Voyager. Departing from Phu My Port on 13, 17, and 21 June 2025, these 4 four-night cruises to Singapore offer Vietnamese travellers an exciting new holiday option just in time for the summer school break. StarCruises Launches Star Voyager Sailings from Ho Chi Minh City (2) StarCruises Star Voyager Star Voyager Each voyage invites guests to relax in their choice of accommodation, from cozy Inside Cabins to Oceanview and Balcony Cabins, as well as luxurious Palace Suites, which include exclusive access to private facilities, 24-hour butler service, and personalized experiences. Guests will also enjoy complimentary access to selected dining venues, world-class live entertainment and a wide array of family-friendly activities onboard. To ensure an elevated guest experience, the Star Voyager has recently undergone a US$50 million refurbishment with enhanced venues and improved onboard facilities. The ship promises an unforgettable journey filled with relaxation, discovery and fun. “With StarCruises officially launching sailings from Ho Chi Minh City via Phu My Port, we are thrilled to introduce the Star Voyager’s 4 Night Cruise to Singapore for the local school holidays, This homeport deployment and series of exclusive sailings are poised to elevate Vietnam’s standing as an emerging cruise hub in Southeast Asia, while boosting both inbound and outbound travel,” said Michael Goh, President of StarDream Cruises.

Read more

The Leela Shapes a New Edge in Indian Luxury Hospitality

In an exclusive interview with TTJ, Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, outlines the brand’s vision of redefining luxury through deep cultural engagement, thoughtful hospitality, and personalised experiences powered by technology. From nurturing talent and empowering women to sustainable innovation and strategic expansion, The Leela continues its journey of delivering transformative experiences while staying rooted in its ethos, Atithi Devo Bhava. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has been on a journey to delight guests by providing unparalleled luxury in captivating environs, ensconced in the lap of nature and wrapped in the graciousness of Indian hospitality. The Leela celebrates each hotel through its unique location, art, culture, and cuisine with thoughtful services, celebratory rituals, and immersive experiences.

Read more