News

Airlines Boost Flights to Srinagar After Pahalgam Attack

In the aftermath of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, leading Indian airlines—Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air—have rapidly adjusted their flight schedules to and from Srinagar (SXR) to provide critical support to travelers and assist with evacuation efforts. The tragic event unfolded on April 22, when militants opened fire in a crowded marketplace near the Lidder River in Pahalgam, killing at least 26 people and injuring many others. Emergency responders faced significant challenges reaching the scene due to the narrow roads in the area. Local residents swiftly intervened, helping to transport the injured using private vehicles and makeshift stretchers. In response to the crisis, aviation authorities urged airlines to prioritize the transportation of the deceased to their respective home states, ensuring the swift and dignified return of the victims. Air India Steps Up with Additional Flights Air India has announced the addition of two extra flights from Srinagar on April 23, 2025. These flights include a departure to Delhi (DEL) at 11:30 AM and another to Mumbai (BOM) at 12:00 noon. All other regularly scheduled flights to and from Srinagar will continue to operate without disruption.

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Akasa Air Hits 1 Lakh Flights, 17 Million Flyers Since 2022 Launch

In a remarkable display of resilience and rapid expansion, India’s youngest airline, Akasa Air, has now carried over 17 million revenue passengers since its inaugural flight in August 2022. The airline has also surpassed 100,000 departures, with more than 150 daily flights, amounting to over 1,000 weekly operations, according to an official statement issued on Tuesday. This impressive achievement highlights Akasa Air’s rapid growth trajectory in a market dominated by legacy carriers. The airline’s success is further underscored by its strong performance amidst a competitive aviation landscape and global supply chain disruptions. Fleet Growth Amid Boeing Challenges Despite persistent delivery delays linked to regulatory investigations into Boeing’s 737 programme, Akasa Air remains on course with its fleet expansion goals. Akasa Air plans to expand its fleet to 30 aircraft by July 2025, with the arrival of its 28th Boeing 737 MAX scheduled before the end of April. This goal reflects the airline’s determination to scale operations in both domestic and international markets, while continuing to strengthen its network and frequency.

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Malaysia Eases Visas to Boost China and ASEAN Tourism Ties

As of April 2025, a significant development in international travel has been announced, impacting travelers between China and Malaysia. The extension of the visa-free travel agreement between these two countries, finalized during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Malaysia in mid-April, promises to reshape tourism dynamics not only in Malaysia but across the Southeast Asian region. This extension will provide citizens of both nations the privilege of staying in each other’s countries for up to 90 days without needing a visa. The new arrangement, set to last five years with the possibility of renewal, is seen as a powerful catalyst for tourism, offering numerous opportunities for travelers and industries alike. A New Era for Chinese Tourists to Malaysia The decision to extend the visa exemption builds upon Malaysia’s existing efforts to simplify and encourage tourism, particularly from China, which has been the largest source of international visitors to the country. Before this extension, Malaysia had already implemented a visa-free policy for Chinese nationals in December 2023, although the original arrangement only allowed for 30-day stays. Now, with the new agreement, Chinese visitors can stay for a full 90 days, which aligns with Malaysia’s broader strategy to boost its tourism economy.

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FIFA 2026: Qatar Airways Launches Exclusive Travel Bundles for North America

S, Canada, and Mexico are set to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, and Qatar Airways Holidays is stepping in to enhance the fan experience by launching exclusive, all-in-one travel packages tailored for global supporters. These packages will include international and domestic flights, luxury hotel accommodations, stadium transfers, and official match tickets, making travel across the three host nations seamless and stress-free. As the Official Global Airline Partner of FIFA, Qatar Airways is leveraging its long-term partnership to offer fans premium access to the world’s biggest football event, ensuring a smooth, unforgettable journey across North America. Qatar Airways Holidays to Roll Out Exclusive Travel Packages for FIFA World Cup 2026 Across North America Qatar Airways Holidays is preparing to unveil exclusive travel experiences for fans attending the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026, set to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The tournament, featuring 48 national teams and over 100 thrilling matches, will be hosted in multiple cities across the three nations, offering a dynamic and diverse sporting spectacle.

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FHRAI to host 55th Annual Convention in Bengaluru from September 12–14, 2025

The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), the apex body of the Indian hospitality industry, will host its 55th Annual Convention from September 12 to 14, 2025, in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Convention will bring together over 1,200 key stakeholders, including policymakers, industry experts, hospitality leaders, entrepreneurs, and academicians. With last year’s theme being ‘Tourism@2047: Incredible to Inevitable India,’ the 55th Convention also aims to build on that foundation by exploring emerging trends, innovations, and collaborative pathways to shape a more resilient and future-ready hospitality ecosystem. The FHRAI Annual Convention has consistently served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration, facilitating the exchange of ideas and actionable strategies to enhance the Indian hospitality sector. Speaking about the upcoming event, K. Syama Raju, President of FHRAI, said, “The 55th FHRAI Convention is an opportunity to build a roadmap for resilient, inclusive, and eco-conscious hospitality growth in India. Bengaluru, with its global appeal and commitment to innovation, serves as the perfect backdrop for these crucial conversations. We look forward to welcoming industry leaders and changemakers who are shaping the future of tourism and hospitality.”

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Fiji sets sights on double-digit growth from India

Fiji witnessed strong tourism growth in 2024 and is now setting its sights on even greater success in 2025. In a conversation with TTJ, Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, shared his insights on the progress achieved, challenges encountered, and the exciting plans ahead. Fiji, the postcard-perfect South Pacific archipelago known for its turquoise waters and warm hospitality, is gearing up for a new chapter in tourism growth. Record Tourism Growth in 2024 Fiji’s tourism sector achieved an impressive milestone in 2024, surpassing expectations with a substantial increase in tourist arrivals. Brent informed, “We were projecting a three per cent growth, but we ended up with about six and a half per cent. We crossed the one million mark, combining air and cruise arrivals.” With strong numbers, Brent is optimistic about continuing the momentum into 2025. “The exciting part is the diversification, especially with our focus on Indian tourists, which is why we are here in India,” added Brent. India’s Role in Fiji’s Tourism Expansion India continues to be a top 10 source market for Fiji. While performance in 2024 was positive, Brent emphasised the need for stronger connectivity. “We need to improve flight connections, which we are actively working on. This year, we are targeting double-digit growth from India,” he shared.

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