News

DGCA advises airlines to avoid fare surge, increase Srinagar flights

In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an urgent advisory on April 23, calling on airlines to increase flight frequencies from Srinagar to help evacuate stranded tourists. The directive comes amid a sudden surge in passenger traffic, as travellers rushed to Srinagar Airport seeking to return to their respective hometowns. “In the aftermath of the incident in Pahalgam, there is an unexpected demand from tourists seeking to return to their homes,” stated the DGCA in its advisory. “In this regard, the airlines are advised to take swift action to increase the number of flights in response to heightened demand and also to ensure uninterrupted connectivity from Srinagar to various destinations across India, facilitating evacuation of stranded tourists.” The advisory further urged airlines to show compassion and flexibility by waiving cancellation and rescheduling fees. “The airlines are also requested to provide all necessary assistance to tourists facing unexpected circumstances and challenges during this difficult time,” it added. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu also shared updates through a post on X (formerly Twitter), affirming the government’s commitment to supporting affected tourists. “In the wake of the tragic terror attack, we are constantly making efforts to ensure safe travel of tourists from Srinagar,” he said. “Strict instructions were given to airline companies to avoid any fare surges. Fares are being monitored and kept at reasonable levels.”

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Thailand and Italy Partner to Showcase Cultural Richness at Exclusive Events

Tourism Authority of Thailand strengthens ties between Thailand and Italy through a cultural exchange event, promoting tourism growth, sustainable travel, and long-term bilateral relations. At the event, a central highlight of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, Mrs. Chiravadee Khunsub, Deputy Governor for International Marketing across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, emphasized the vital role of tourism and cultural exchange in fostering global understanding. fostering long-term bilateral relations. Advertisement The event, hosted on April 21 at the Siri Sala Private Thai Villa in Bangkok, showcased live music, traditional performances, Italian business exhibitions, and a panel discussion titled “Bridging Cultures.” Through Tourism: Focus on Thailand and Italy.” The evening concluded with a networking dinner aimed at fostering stronger collaboration between Thai and Italian partners.

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Saudi Arabia to Localise 41 Key Hospitality Roles by 2028 in Major Workforce Push

Saudi Arabia has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to localise forty-one key roles within the hospitality and tourism sectors by 2028, marking a bold step in strengthening its national workforce. This ambitious plan, part of the country’s Vision Two Thousand Thirty strategy, will empower Saudi nationals by filling vital positions in tourism, ranging from leadership to specialist roles. The phased implementation will not only help reduce unemployment but also pave the way for a future-ready economy by tapping into the local talent pool, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to long-term employment growth and sustainability in the tourism industry. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, has unveiled a phased strategy to localise 41 positions within the tourism industry. This initiative, set to affect all private tourism-related businesses, will unfold in three stages, beginning on April 22, 2026.

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Thailand Introduces TDAC to Boost Convenience for International Travelers

Thailand’s new TDAC requirement for all foreign travelers promises faster, seamless, and secure arrivals, transforming the immigration process and boosting efficiency. The TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) must be completed by all foreign passport holders, including tourists, business travelers, and long-term residents. Exceptions are limited to travelers who are passing through Thailand in transit without clearing immigration or those entering with a Border Pass. Advertisement TDAC submissions can be made up to three days before the planned arrival date. For instance, if arriving on May 5, travelers can start submitting their TDAC on May 2. The system will become available on April 28 to support travelers arriving on the launch day. Travelers have the flexibility to submit their TDAC individually or as part of a group through the online portal. The information can be updated anytime before the trip. Essential details include passport information, personal and travel specifics, accommodation details in Thailand, and a basic health declaration.

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Vietnam Surpasses Singapore in 2025 Tourism Boom Driven by China, Malaysia, and Indonesia

Vietnam has emerged as Southeast Asia’s tourism frontrunner in the first quarter of 2025, welcoming nearly six million international visitors—surpassing Singapore’s 4.31 million. This sharp lead is largely attributed to Vietnam’s broader appeal across multiple markets, including a strong influx of Chinese travelers, who remain the country’s largest source of inbound tourism. Favorable visa policies, improved connectivity, and Vietnam’s expanding reputation as a diverse and affordable travel destination have helped it outpace Singapore, which saw steady—but comparatively slower—growth driven mainly by arrivals from China, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Singapore welcomed approximately 4.31 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, maintaining steady performance compared to the same timeframe in 2024. Meanwhile, Vietnam outpaced its regional neighbor with close to six million tourist arrivals during the same period.

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PATA Approves New Vision for Sustainable Tourism at 74th Meeting in Istanbul

Acknowledging the dynamic changes in the global travel industry, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has unveiled a refreshed Vision and Mission that aligns with the emerging trends in the tourism sector. These updated directives emphasize innovation, collaboration, and flexibility, aiming to foster a sustainable and impactful tourism economy. During the PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey, the PATA Board formally approved the new Vision and Mission, which were later ratified at the 74th Annual General Meeting. Advertisement PATA’s revised vision, “A meaningful Pacific Asia tourism economy,” is both succinct and powerful. The term “meaningful” emphasizes a dedication to sustainable, all-encompassing results—social, cultural, environmental, and economic—that benefit every stakeholder. It acknowledges tourism’s capacity to drive positive change while honoring diversity, empowering communities, and preserving the region’s cultural heritage.

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