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Qatar Airways Makes History With $96B Boeing Deal During Trump Visit

During President Trump’s high-profile visit to the Gulf region, Qatar Airways secured a groundbreaking deal worth $96 billion, ordering 160 Boeing twin-aisle jets, including 130 787 Dreamliners and 30 777X aircraft, with options for 50 more. This historic order not only solidifies Qatar Airways’ long-term commitment to expanding its fleet with some of the most advanced aircraft on the market but also strengthens its strategic partnership with Boeing and GE Aerospace. The deal is a significant milestone for both companies, marking a pivotal moment in global aviation while reinforcing Qatar Airways’ position as a major player in the industry. Boeing clinched its largest-ever widebody aircraft deal on Wednesday, when Qatar Airways, the state-owned carrier, confirmed a firm order for 160 jetliners, with options for an additional 50 aircraft. This significant agreement was announced during President Donald Trump’s visit to the Gulf region, marking a major milestone in his tour of the Middle East. The deal, valued at a massive \$96 billion, includes Boeing’s new 777X and 787 models, both powered by GE Aerospace engines. The announcement of the sale not only serves as a significant diplomatic win for President Trump during his visit, but it also provides a substantial boost to Boeing and GE Aerospace, especially given the backdrop of increasing competition from Airbus and ongoing challenges faced by its products in extreme climates.

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Indonesia Launches New Travel Visa Policy, Extending Stay Periods To Six Months For Multiple-Entry Visa Holders

Indonesia has introduced an exciting update to its travel visa regulations, allowing multiple-entry visa holders to stay in the country for up to 180 days without the need to exit. This new policy, which includes two 60-day extensions, provides greater flexibility for travellers, business professionals, and digital nomads looking to spend extended periods in Indonesia. By eliminating the requirement for frequent border runs, this update makes it easier for visitors to fully immerse themselves in the country’s vibrant culture, explore its diverse landscapes, or carry out business activities without disruption. With this change, Indonesia continues to strengthen its position as a top destination for long-term visitors. Indonesia has introduced exciting changes to its visit stay permit regulations for multiple-entry visa holders, making it easier for travellers to stay in the country for longer periods. Under the new policy, visitors can now extend their stay up to 180 days without the need to leave Indonesia. This includes two 60-day extensions, along with updated requirements for specific visa types.

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Visit Malaysia 2026 Launches in Taipei to Attract 45 Million Tourists

Malaysia launches Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign in Taipei, aiming for forty-five million visitors and RM270 billion in revenue through sustainable and diverse tourism. In a landmark move to strengthen its tourism industry and deepen ties with Taiwan, Malaysia officially launched the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) Promotional Campaign in Taipei, setting the stage for a transformative era in regional travel collaboration. The launch took place during the Tourism Malaysia B2B Networking Session, held as part of the broader Tourism Malaysia Sales Mission 2025 to Taiwan, which runs from April twenty-two to April twenty-six, covering Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. Advertisement The promotional campaign was officiated by Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, the Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia, underscoring the Malaysian government’s strong commitment to revitalizing its tourism landscape with renewed vigor and vision. The VM2026 initiative is not just a promotional push; it represents Malaysia’s national-level strategy to boost international tourism, diversify its tourism offerings, and rebuild global travel confidence following post-pandemic recovery. Bold Targets and Vision for 2026

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Emirates Elevates First Class Experience with Exclusive Suites, Fine Dining and Luxurious Onboard Amenities

Emirates continues to assert its position as the world’s largest operator of international First Class travel by unveiling a series of enhancements designed to refine and elevate the luxury flying experience. Offering approximately 26,800 First Class seats per week, entirely in private suites, Emirates delivers an unparalleled level of exclusivity and comfort to discerning travelers worldwide. Advertisement Private Suites: The Epitome of Inflight Luxury Known as a “hotel room in the sky,” Emirates’ First Class private suites are meticulously designed to offer passengers maximum privacy, comfort, and personal space. On the flagship A380 aircraft, the upper deck houses 14 fully enclosed First Class suites configured in a 1-2-1 layout. Each suite features electronically controlled privacy doors, a seat that converts into a fully lie-flat bed, and an array of personal controls including adjustable mood lighting and temperature settings. Suites include a dedicated work desk and a pull-out dining table, enabling passengers to seamlessly transition from work to leisure. On the Boeing 777’s Game Changer configuration, six suites are arranged in a unique 1-1-1 formation. These suites feature floor-to-ceiling doors and seats capable of transitioning into “zero gravity” positions for superior rest. Window seats provide bespoke binoculars for sightseeing, while middle suites boast virtual windows offering immersive views.

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Chandigarh: Airport operations gain momentum with 44 flights

Three days after operations at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport resumed on May 12 following a ceasefire pact between India and Pakistan, the airport has started inching back towards normalcy, with 44 flights departing and arriving on Thursday. A total of three airlines operate from the airport — IndiGo, Air India and Alliance Air. (HT File Photo) A total of three airlines operate from the airport — IndiGo, Air India and Alliance Air. (HT File Photo) A total of three airlines operate from the airport — IndiGo, Air India and Alliance Air. But they had opted not to fly to or from Chandigarh on Monday and Tuesday in the absence of sufficient passenger load. On Wednesday, the number of flights went up to 10, with partial occupancy, further rising to a promising 44 on Thursday. Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) CEO Ajay Kumar confirmed, “As many as 44 flights operated on Thursday and we are expecting normal operations from Friday.” On May 7, all 52 civilian flights at the airport were suspended after the Indian Air Force took control of the facility in response to intelligence inputs suggesting potential strikes on military installations by Pakistan, hitting operations for seven straight days. Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport caters to several major domestic destinations, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Indore, Leh, Jaipur, Lucknow, Chennai, Patna, and Pune. It also operates two international flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, handling an average daily footfall of around 10,000 passengers. The civil terminal is managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in collaboration with the Punjab and Haryana governments. However, the runway and air traffic control are managed by the Chandigarh Air Force Station, which also regulates operational hours for commercial flights.

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Qatar Tourism Hits Record Highs in 2024, Eyes Game-Changing 2025 Deals

Qatar Tourism sees record growth, achieving 5.07 million visitors in 2024, setting the stage for even greater success in 2025 with bold strategies and groundbreaking partnerships. Qatar Tourism has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in the global tourism landscape, achieving exceptional growth in 2024. With 5.07 million visitors, marking a remarkable 25% increase compared to 2023, the country has set a new benchmark for success in the region. This impressive momentum continues into 2025, with over 1.5 million international visitors already welcomed in the first quarter alone. Qatar’s ability to attract global travelers is the result of a comprehensive and integrated tourism strategy that spans hospitality, eco-tourism, cruise tourism, culinary excellence, and digital innovation. Advertisement In 2024, Qatar not only surpassed 10 million room nights for the first time but also welcomed the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, marking the country’s growing prominence on the world stage. Major events like the Web Summit Qatar and the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition elevated the country’s status further, showcasing Qatar as a vibrant and year-round destination. Qatar Tourism’s ongoing efforts have firmly positioned the country as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a mix of modernity, culture, and adventure.

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