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Turkish Airlines expands fleet with 355 Airbus order

Turkish Airlines revealed the acquisition of a fleet of 355 cutting-edge Airbus aircraft. This significant investment encompasses 250 of the highly sought-after A321s and 105 of A350 widebody aircraft. Among these, 60 firm orders, 20 purchase rights for A350-900s, 15 firm orders for A350-1000s, and 5 firm orders along with 5 purchase rights for A350-Freighters included. Turkish Airlines has made a momentous stride in its expansion plans, revealing the acquisition of an impressive fleet of 355 cutting-edge Airbus aircraft. This significant investment encompasses 250 of the highly sought-after A321s and 105 of the remarkably efficient A350 widebody aircraft. Among these, 60 firm orders, 20 purchase rights for A350-900s, 15 firm orders for A350-1000s, and 5 firm orders along with 5 purchase rights for A350-Freighters are included. This strategic move underscores Turkish Airlines' steadfast commitment to bolstering operational efficiency, prioritising environmental stewardship, and elevating passenger comfort. The incorporation of these state-of-the-art aircraft aligns seamlessly with the airline's vision to maintain its leadership in the aviation industry while fostering sustainable growth. In line with this significant fleet expansion, Turkish Airlines, the national flag carrier of Türkiye, plans to continue to reinforce its status as an airline with one of the world's most comprehensive flight networks. The addition of these Airbus aircraft will further enhance the airline’s ability to connect Türkiye to the farthest corners of the globe, offering its passengers even more destinations and travel options while maintaining the highest standards of service and connectivity that Turkish Airlines is renowned for. “This landmark order is more than an expansion; it's a testament to our dedication to innovation, operational excellence, and a sustainable future. The addition of these advanced Airbus aircraft to our fleet will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also significantly contribute to our environmental goals. This investment is a crucial milestone in the further evolution of Türkiye's aviation industry. By modernizing our fleet with more efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft, we are reinforcing our leading position in global aviation and contributing to the nation's prominence as an aviation hub,” said Turkish. “Furthermore, this expansion will also have a considerable positive impact on Türkiye's tourism sector. Enhanced flight operations and increased connectivity, thanks to these state-of-the-art aircraft, will attract more international tourists, boosting the tourism economy. This will not only showcase Türkiye's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to a wider audience but also support the overall growth of the country. With our home base in Istanbul, which straddles continents, we continue our mission of bridging people from all over the world. These new aircraft are not just a step forward for Turkish Airlines but represent a leap forward for the broader aviation and tourism industries in Türkiye, guiding us towards an even brighter future.” “This order for the latest generation aircraft is a demonstration of the bold vision by Turkish Airlines. The A350-900, A350-1000, A350F and A321 will all be flagship aircraft in their respective category and efficiency drivers to shape the airline’s future and sustainable expansion, with more range, less fuel, noise and emissions and best cabin in class. The opening into the A350-1000 and the A350F highlights the crossmodel value of the A350 family and reinforces our long-lasting partnership with Turkish Airlines and Türkiye’s aviation sector overall and we are proud to accompany Turkey's connection to the world with our state-of-the-art aircraft,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International.Both aircraft types incorporate advanced technologies, achieving remarkable improvements in fuel burn, operating costs, CO2 emissions, and noise reduction, underscoring Turkish Airlines' commitment to sustainability and passenger comfort.

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Smart tips for obtaining a visa quickly and hassle-free

In a world that is interconnected, the need for international travel has become more prevalent than ever. Whether you're planning a business trip, embarking on an academic journey, or simply eager to explore a new country, obtaining a visa quickly and without unnecessary hassles is a top priority. If you also have such plans in place, here are some smart tips that will help you get a visa quickly and without any hassle. Plan ahead and apply early First things first. The first step to secure a visa swiftly is starting the application process well in advance. Each country has its own set of requirements and processing times, so familiarise yourself with the specific regulations of the destination you're heading to. Planning ahead and applying early will allow you to get all the necessary documents in place and ensure that you meet deadlines with ease. Thoroughly research visa types Different visas serve different purposes, such as tourist, business, student, or work visas. Get to know the nuances of each type. This will help you choose the right one and avoid delays due to incorrect applications. Consult the official embassy or consulate website for accurate and up-to-date information on visa categories and their respective requirements. Make a document list The importance of providing accurate and necessary documents should not be ignored. Ensure that all required forms are filled out properly, and any supporting documents, such as letters of invitation, financial statements, and travel itineraries, are organised and submitted as per the guidelines. Incomplete applications often lead to delays or even rejections. Check online application systems Many countries now has online visa application systems, which is a more efficient and transparent process. Take advantage of these platforms to submit your application electronically. Online systems often have tracking features, which will allow you to monitor the status of your application and receive timely updates. Read more: 7 days, 7 valleys to explore in Kashmir! Consult with visa professionals If you find the visa application process overwhelming or confusing, consider seeking assistance from visa professionals or immigration consultants. These experts are well-versed with the intricacies of visa procedures and can guide you through the process, ensuring that all requirements are met. Opt for expedited processing services Do note some countries offer expedited processing services for an additional fee. While this may incur extra costs, it can significantly reduce the waiting time for your visa approval. Evaluate whether expedited services align with your timeline and budget constraints. Clear communication Establish clear communication channels with the embassy or consulate handling your application. Be prompt in responding to any requests for additional information and maintain a professional and courteous demeanour throughout the process. Clear communication can facilitate a smoother and quicker visa approval.

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Vistara welcomes its 50th A320neo; eyes 70 aircraft by 2024 end

In line with the focus to expand its domestic and international footprint, Vistara is on course to have 70 aircraft by the end of FY 2024, thereby providing better connectivity and a wider network to its customers. Vistara currently operates over 300 daily flights, connecting 32 domestic and 18 international destinations. India's full-service carrier and a joint venture between the Tata group and Singapore Airlines, has welcomed its 50th Airbus A320neo to its young, modern fleet. With this latest addition, Vistara now has a total of 66 aircraft, including 50 Airbus A320neo, 10 Airbus A321, and six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. In line with the focus to expand its domestic and international footprint, Vistara is on course to have 70 aircraft by the end of FY 2024, thereby providing better connectivity and a wider network to its customers. Vistara currently operates over 300 daily flights, connecting 32 domestic and 18 international destinations. Vistara’s fleet is not just one of the youngest in the industry but has also been recognised for its overall inflight experience which is at par with some of the biggest and best airlines in the world. The airline has always focused on investment in modern aircraft with cutting edge technology and fuel-efficient engines. Vistara is India’s highest-rated airline on Skytrax and TripAdvisor, and it has been the winner of several ‘Best Airline’ awards, besides being lauded for world-class cabin cleanliness and upholding high safety standards. The only Indian carrier to feature amongst World’s Top 20 Airlines, Vistara has been named ‘16th Best Airline’ globally while also being recognised as the ‘Best Airline in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row, ‘Best Airline Staff in India and South Asia’ for the fifth consecutive year, ‘Best Cabin Crew in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row and ‘Best Business Class Airline in India and South Asia’ for the second time in a row at the coveted World Airline Awards 2023 by Skytrax.

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What should you do if you lose your passport while travelling abroad?

Losing your passport while travelling abroad can be a distressing experience, but it's essential to stay calm and take immediate action to resolve the situation. Here's a guide on what to do if you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of a lost passport. Report the loss: The moment you realise your passport is missing, report the loss to the local authorities. Visit the nearest police station to file a report. This step is crucial for your safety and to protect against potential identity theft. Contact your Embassy or Consulate: Reach out to the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country. They are there to assist citizens facing emergencies abroad, including lost or stolen passports. Provide them with the details of the incident, such as the location, date, and any relevant circumstances. Obtain a temporary passport or emergency travel document: Embassies and consulates can issue you a temporary passport or an emergency travel document, which will allow you to return home or continue your journey. The requirements for obtaining these documents may vary, but you will typically need proof of citizenship, a police report, and passport-sized photos. Contact local authorities for assistance: Seek assistance from local authorities in navigating the process of obtaining a temporary travel document. They can guide you on the necessary steps and provide support during what can be a challenging time. Inform relevant parties: Notify relevant parties about the loss of your passport. This includes your accommodation provider, airline, and any other organisations you may have interacted with during your trip. They can provide guidance on any additional procedures or documentation required. Be prepared with copies: Before your trip, make photocopies or digital scans of your passport, visa, and important travel documents. Store these separately from the originals. In the event of a loss, having these copies can expedite the replacement process. Read more: Louvre Museum in Paris all set to hike ticket prices by nearly 30% Monitor your finances: If your passport contains credit cards or other financial information, contact your bank and credit card companies to report the loss. They can assist in securing your accounts and issuing replacement cards. Take preventive measures: To minimise the impact of a lost passport, consider taking preventive measures. Use a travel wallet with RFID protection to safeguard your documents. Keep a digital copy of your passport in a secure cloud account, and use a money belt or hidden pouch to carry important items. Although losing your passport while travelling abroad might throw you in a challenging situation, swift and organised action can help you navigate the process of obtaining a replacement. Stay vigilant, follow the appropriate steps, and lean on the support provided by your embassy or consulate to ensure a smooth resolution to this unexpected hurdle in your journey.

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Year-end travel: Things you should know before planning a year-end holiday in Goa

Often touted as the party capital of India, Goa swarms with tourists during the Christmas/New Year holidays. Beaches get crowded, restaurants announce new menus, hotels hike their tariff, there is a nip in the air, a song in every heart and wait! There are cops everywhere to check hooligans and drunk drivers. Before packing the bags for a year-end holiday in Goa, pay heed to the ground rules. Hotels: If you haven’t booked a hotel room yet, do compare the prices on various online travel platforms before booking accommodation. There could be a huge difference in price. For example, at the time of writing, Ibis Styles Goa Calangute was ₹11,258 a night on Skyscanner, ₹12,888 on Ibis official website, MakemyTrip & booking.com (all tariffs excluding taxes & fees) for 2 adults for December 30, 2023, to January 2, 2024. When you have picked the hotel, check the price on the hotel’s official website. You might find it cheaper on the hotel website + hotels may offer perks (for example, free wifi, free breakfast, upgrade) that are not advertised/mentioned on the online platforms. Read the refund/cancellation policy carefully. If you are a hotel loyalty program member, do not forget to mention it during check-in. Check check-in time: Several hotels in Goa now have a 3 pm check-in time. So, if you land early, you will have to wait a long time to access the room. If have already booked a flight, it would be a good idea to plan sightseeing and/or a brunch so that you do not reach the hotel much before the check-in time. Pick the airport closer to your accommodation: Cabs (even pre-paid cabs from the airport) are very expensive. Hence, pick the airport (Dabolim or Manohar International Airport) closer to the accommodation, For example, if you are staying in South Goa, land in Dabolim because the distance between Margao & North Goa airport is around 65 kilometres. Similarly, if you are staying in Vagator, land at North Goa airport, Dabolim is more than 55 kilometres from Vagator. Hire a car/two-wheeler: Public transport in Goa is infrequent and crowded, and private taxis are very expensive. Renting a car/two-wheeler is a much more economical and convenient option. Read the insurance fine print before signing the rent agreement. Goa Miles: There is no Ola/Uber in Goa but you can opt for Goa Miles, a Goa government's licensed app-based taxi service. It certainly isn’t as quick and efficient as Ola/Uber but it is cheaper than private cabs. Phone: +91 9607198989; Website: goamiles.com Follow the one-way, no-two-wheeler entry rules: From Christmas up to the New Year, cops are deployed at every corner. Carry your vehicle registration papers, and photo ID, wear a helmet and pay heed to the rules about no two-wheeler entry on a few flyovers including the Porvorim-Panjim flyover. You’ll be fined for breaking these rules. Crowded vs peaceful beaches: If you like being in a crowd, head to Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Colva, Anjuna & Miramar beaches. If a crowded beach is not your idea of yearend fun, go to Palolem, Agenda, Arambol, or Butterfly Beach. Avoid isolated corners/nooks of the beach. Weather: Goa does not get cold in December but mornings and evenings are can be a little nippy, especially if you are on a two-wheeler. Carry a hoodie. Remember to pack sunscreen, flip-flops and a cap/hat. Connectivity black holes: Depending on your service provider, Goa has quite a few network black holes wherein the phone has no signals and literally, dies. Safety at beaches: Drishti Marine provides professional lifesaving services in the coastal state of Goa. The first lifesaving agency in India to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in beach safety efforts, it is in the process of raising a ‘Paw Squad’, a fleet of trained dogs to aid lifesavers in rescue efforts. It is present in several Goan beaches, for details, go to drishtimarine.com. Too-free: 1-800-833-1511 New Year's Eve hotspots (price per person): Sinq Nightclub ( ₹2,000 onwards), LPK Waterfront ( ₹2,000 onwards), Club Tito’s ( ₹3,500 onwards), Cafe Mambos ( ₹4,000 onwards), Heineken Takeover at The Westin ( ₹44,250 onwards, includes stay), Flow, the Superclub ( ₹1,000 onwards), Purple Martini at Sunset ( ₹8,000 onwards), Sunburn Goa Enchanted Lounge ( ₹59,000 onwards), The Fern Habitat ( ₹999 onwards). You can book on bookmyshow.com Rent a yacht: If you want to ring in the new year in absolute luxury, hire a yacht with Universal Adventures. A private yacht that can accommodate 6 individuals starts from Panjim as well as South Goa. One-hour cruising & one-hour anchorage is priced at ₹17,999. Timings can be customised between 8 am and 8 pm. A photo ID is essential and you must reach the location 20 minutes prior to departure. If your phone is lost or stolen: The Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) helps you trace and block your stolen or lost mobile phone. Go to www.ceir.gov.in to block your stolen mobile. You can block it online and unblock it on the portal once you have found your phone. The CEIR service is pan-India. Beach Vigil App: Launched in 2002, the Beach Vigil App keeps an eye on beaches. It enables people to report violations along Goa’s beaches directly to the state’s tourism department. Users can report violations like drinking/cooking on the beach, unattended litter, sound pollution, illegal hawking, touting for services like massages, tattoos as well as illegal services. Keep these important phone numbers handy: Goa Tourism Helpline: 1364 Police Control Room: 112 Women’s Police Helpline: 1091 Anti-Terror & Coastal Helpline: 1093 Panaji Women’s Police Station: 0832 2428992 Margao Women’s Police Station: 0832 2710762 Senior Citizen Helpline: 1090 Child Helpline: 1098 Ambulance Helpline: 108 Cyber Fraud Helpline: 1930 Goa Medical College (Bambolim): 0832 2458727, 0832 2458049 Manipal Hospital Panaji (Emergency): 8888702222

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Why are so many foreign countries wooing Indian travellers?

More Indians might be holidaying overseas this Christmas-New Year season than last year relatively cheaper fares and packages, better connectivity, and easier entry requirements have made the proposition more compelling, ET has reported. Tour and travel companies such as Thomas Cook, SOTC and EaseMyTrip have seen up to 30 per cent uptick in dema for short-haul international routes compared to last year. Indian travellers are going places. As India's middle-class grows, incomes rise and increasingly more Indians are willing to spend big on travel, the world wants their money. Recently, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia have offered visa-free entry to Indians, Vietnam and Indonesia are planning to consider the possibility of introducing visa-free entry for Indian tourists. Iran and Kenya are the latest to join the list of visa-free countries for India besides other countries. Russia has proposed a regime with India that will allow tourists from both nations to visit each other’s countries without visas if they travel in organized groups. Germany is happy to have increasing numbers of tourists from India and they are doing their best to cope with the visa applications, Georg Enzweiler, Deputy Head of Mission, German Embassy, said recently. The remarkable increase this year is due to diverse campaigns and offers, he said. The foreign travel boom With a host of Asian countries offering visa-free travel to Indian tourists, demand for outbound foreign travel has gone up in the past two months, say travel companies. “The announcement on visa-free entry for Indians to Thailand has seen strong interest - with an uptick of 30 per cent in demand compared to last year,” Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, has told TOI. “With visas forming a critical deciding factor for Indian travellers, the recent update on visafree entry to Malaysia from December 1 is a smart move, clearly intended to catalyse visits from the powerful and high growth India market,” he added. “Indians are leveraging on every opportunity to travel and with the holiday season approaching, we witnessed a growth of over 20 per cent YoY in our bookings for October-December2023,” Daniel D’Souza, President & Country Head - Holidays, SOTC Travel told TOI. Scapia, a travel fin-tech company, told TOI that the online searches for flights and hotel accommodations have sky-rocketed in the past month because of relaxed visa guidelines. “Hong Kong leads with an astounding 130 per cent surge in searches in the last quarter of 2023. Following closely, Bangkok boasts a substantial 70 per cent rise in flight searches in the last quarter of 2023. Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, has also joined the travel boom with a noteworthy 50 per cent increase in flight searches,” it said. More Indians might be holidaying overseas this Christmas-New Year season than last year as relatively cheaper fares and packages, better connectivity, and easier entry requirements have made the proposition more compelling, ET has reported. Tour and travel companies such as Thomas Cook, SOTC and EaseMyTrip have seen up to 30 per cent uptick in demand for short-haul international routes compared to last year. Ajay Prakash, board member of industry body Federation of Associations for Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH), has told ET that international travel is looking more “robust” than domestic travel. India experienced a remarkable 140 per cent surge in visa applications last year compared to 2021, according to Prabuddha Sen, the Chief Operating Officer for South Asia at VFS Global. He noted that due to Covid restrictions and subsequent geopolitical sensitivities in certain markets, many global destinations are keen to attract Indian travellers. Some countries, such as Indonesia and Azerbaijan, introduced tailored evisa solutions, including for Indian nationals. D'Souza of SOTC Travel reported robust growth of 227 per cent in outbound travel between January and June this year compared to the same period last year. This growth extends beyond India's major cities to include tier two and three cities in regional India, driven by rising disposable incomes and the aspirational value of vacations. Indians have emerged as the second largest group of overseas visitors to the United States this summer, despite long wait times for visa interviews and high airfares. Why foreign want Indian tourists Visa-free entry is a carrot to expand the $28 billion that 27 million Indians spent overseas in 2019, Andy Mukherjee wrote in Bloomberg. Those numbers had swelled eightfold and sixfold, respectively, in the two decades before the pandemic. Indians are not cutting corners while visiting foreign countries. India ranked as the fourth highest spending international market with a spending of $700 million in New York City, NYC Tourism and Conventions EVP, Global Communications, Tiffany Townsend said a few months ago. A major reason why foreign countries, big as well as small, are courting Indian travellers is China. With the reduction in the number of Chinese tourists, the world is looking at India. “Every destination that I go to, I’m asked about getting Indian travelers there. Whether that’s Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, Australia or Singapore. Everybody’s thinking about how they might have potentially lost out on getting the Chinese travelers for a certain period. The Chinese were the number one source market for many destinations globally, and now they would like to focus on getting Indian travelers,” Laura Houldsworth, MD, Asia Pacific (APAC) at Booking.com, said recently. As the Indian economy grows, disposable incomes are rising too. In the age of social media, foreign travel has become aspirational, especially in Tier II and Tier III cities and towns. A rising middle class is willing to spend on foreign travel. Availability of vacation loans helps this trend. Foreign countries aim to tap this growing spending power of the Indian traveller.

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