Southwest Airlines is set to revolutionise inflight connectivity by integrating SpaceX’s Starlink WiFi across its fleet, starting this summer. The airline plans to equip over 300 aircraft with this next-generation technology by the end of 2026, allowing passengers to enjoy high-speed internet access across 11 countries. This move aims to provide an “at-home experience in the air,” enabling customers to stream, share, and connect seamlessly, according to Tony Roach, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Brand Officer at Southwest Airlines.

Starlink, a constellation of over 9,000 low-Earth orbit satellites, promises to deliver reliable, high-speed internet, supporting activities such as streaming, gaming, and real-time messaging. Jason Fritch, Vice President of Starlink Enterprise Sales at SpaceX, stated, “Starlink is the future of connected travel, making every journey faster, smoother, and infinitely more enjoyable.”

Southwest Airlines, known for offering free WiFi to its loyalty members, is the largest US airline to provide this service fleetwide. The introduction of Starlink is part of a broader initiative to enhance the cabin experience, which includes new seating options, updated cabin designs, and improved boarding processes. Passengers can also look forward to features such as in-seat power, larger overhead bins, and an Extra Legroom experience with enhanced snack options.

As Southwest continues to innovate, the integration of Starlink WiFi marks a significant step in elevating the travel experience, ensuring passengers remain connected from takeoff to landing

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

EVA Air is set to commence nonstop flights between Taipei and Washington, DC on 26 June, marking a significant expansion of its North American network. The new route will operate four times a week, increasing the airline’s total weekly flights to 98 across 10 gateways in North America. This development positions EVA Air as the airline with the most extensive network from Taiwan to North America.

The Taipei-Washington DC route will be serviced by Boeing 787-9 aircraft, featuring Royal Laurel Class, Economy Class, and the newly introduced fourth-generation Premium Economy Class. EVA Air President Clay Sun highlighted the strategic importance of the US market, stating, “This strengthens our presence on the East Coast and allows us to better serve one of the nation’s most influential markets.”

Washington, DC, a major metropolitan area and economic hub, is expected to generate strong demand for premium air travel. The new service will significantly reduce travel times between Taipei and Washington, DC, and is projected to contribute over $61 million annually to the US National Capital region’s economy, according to Chryssa Westerlund, executive vice president of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.

Passengers will benefit from seamless connections across Asia via EVA Air’s hub at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. The airline’s partnerships with Star Alliance members and other carriers extend its reach to over 200 destinations throughout the Americas. Tickets for the new route are available for booking on EVA Air’s website

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched its first dedicated Visitor Service Centre at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), targeting MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) visitors. Located at the Harbour Road entrance, the centre offers international delegates information and tips to explore Hong Kong beyond their business events.

Anthony Lau, Executive Director of HKTB, highlighted the centre’s strategic timing with the global cryptocurrency and Web 3 conference, Consensus Hong Kong 2026. He stated, “We aim to assist MICE visitors in balancing their business commitments with exploring Hong Kong’s diverse tourism offerings through our visitor services, thereby enriching their overall experience.”

Michael Lau, Chairman of Consensus Hong Kong, praised the initiative, noting, “Having a dedicated Visitor Service Centre right here at HKCEC is invaluable, as it gives our delegates immediate access to discover all that Hong Kong has to offer—from incredible food and cultural diversity to scenic hikes and iconic experiences.”

The centre features a self-service kiosk with the latest travel information, including major events and HKTB’s thematic campaigns. It also provides practical travel guides on accommodation and transportation. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., the centre is staffed during large conventions to offer immediate assistance, introducing attractions and advising on itineraries.

This development underscores HKTB’s commitment to enhancing the experience of business travellers, encouraging them to extend their stay and explore the city’s rich offerings

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Air Astana is set to enhance its connectivity to China with the introduction of new twice-weekly flights from Astana to Guangzhou, commencing on 2 June 2026. This expansion follows the airline’s existing four weekly flights from Almaty to Guangzhou, which began in March 2025. The airline also operates flights to Beijing and Urumqi, and plans to launch a new service between Almaty and Shanghai at the end of March 2026.

The new flights from Astana to Guangzhou will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays, departing at 18:45 and arriving at 04:30 the following day. Return flights are scheduled for Wednesdays and Fridays, departing Guangzhou at 05:45 and arriving in Astana at 10:10. These flights will be serviced by the latest Airbus A321LR aircraft, with a flight duration of 6 hours and 45 minutes.

Round-trip tickets for the new route start at $508 (US$508) for Economy Class and $1,688 (US$1,688) for Business Class. The expansion aims to bolster business, tourism, and cultural ties between Kazakhstan and China, whilst also increasing travel and transit opportunities through Air Astana’s hubs in Astana and Almaty

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Langham Hospitality Group’s new Experience AI Agent brings intuitive, multilingual, always-on intelligence across 31 properties—freeing colleagues to focus on what matters most, the guests.

When The Langham, London opened in 1865, it changed expectations of what a grand hotel could be. Electric lighting, hydraulic lifts, and hot and cold running water were once radical ideas; today, they are reminders that Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) has always been willing to embrace the future to better serve its guests.

Now, as the travel industry gathers for the Travel Daily Media Awards to celebrate those redefining excellence, Langham is again at the forefront – this time with intelligence rather than infrastructure. Its latest breakthrough, Experience AI Agent, is reshaping how guests, colleagues, and commercial teams access information and build great memories.

Experience AI: Intelligence with intuition

Launching across a portfolio of 31 properties on four continents and four brands, Langham’s AI toolkit addresses a simple reality: the way people seek information has changed. Guests now expect answers on their own terms, in their own language, and on their preferred channels. Colleagues expect tools that empower them to act quickly and confidently. Commercial teams expect insights that arrive in real time, not in hindsight.

“Personal and intuitive guest care has always been central to how we operate,” explained SVP Sean Seah. Experience AI Agent is the group’s answer to this new landscape: specialised agents designed not to replace people, but to free them to focus on what matters most – meaningful, unscripted human connection.

Experience Agent: A new digital concierge

For guests, the Experience AI Agent is where the future of service comes to life. This multilingual interface allows travellers to ask questions through familiar text-based channels such as WhatsApp, WeChat, Instagram, and email, in more than 50 languages. From confirming airport transfers to seeking local restaurant tips, guests receive instant, accurate responses whilst retaining the option to speak directly with hotel staff whenever they choose.

What makes the Experience AI Agent so powerful is how naturally it fits into the rhythm of modern travel. A guest might message the hotel from the back of a taxi, on the way to the airport, or between meetings, and still receive the same prompt, considered reply they would expect at the concierge desk. There is no app to download, no portal to navigate – just the channels guests already use every day, now connected to the heart of the hotel.

Over time, Experience AI Agent will evolve from a reactive problem-solver to a proactive concierge: understanding intent, suggesting services, routing enquiries to the right teams and, ultimately, helping guests design their stays before they even check in. Voice capabilities, richer trip planning, and anticipatory service are all on the horizon, signalling a future where the guest journey is supported seamlessly from inspiration to return flight.

Imagine a stay where a pre-arrival question about running routes leads to a customised map and a suggestion to book a post-run spa treatment, or where a late-night enquiry about dining options offers not only room service favourites but also insider recommendations nearby for the following evening. The Experience AI Agent enables this kind of intuitive, joined-up service at scale, whilst still leaving space for colleagues to add their own local flair and personality.

Quiet strength behind the scenes

By handling routine questions and logistics, the Experience AI Agent frees on-property teams to focus on what cannot be automated: a warm welcome, an empathetic response to a disrupted journey, a thoughtful gesture that turns a stay into a story. In this way, Langham’s AI strategy is not about replacing human touch, but about protecting it – giving colleagues more time and space to deliver the kind of crafted, personal experiences that define true luxury.

A legacy of innovation, a future of experience

Experience AI Agent is the latest chapter in a story of innovation that began when The Langham, London was first hailed as Europe’s original Grand Hotel. Then, it was electric lighting and running water; today, it is intelligent heating and cooling, smart check-in, top-tier property management systems, and now an integrated AI toolkit that amplifies the warmth and craft of true hospitality.

As the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards and Travel Daily Media shine a spotlight on projects that set new benchmarks for innovation, sustainability, and guest experience, Langham Hospitality Group’s Experience AI Agent stands as a compelling example of what the future can look like when technology is guided by a human heart. In a world where information is everywhere, Langham’s vision is clear: make it intuitive, make it intelligent, and, above all, make it personal.

The company was lauded as a haven of discreet luxury and modern sustainability.

Regent Hong Kong claimed victory at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Hong Kong, winning the Luxury Hotel of the Year – Hong Kong and Hotel Renovation of the Year – Hong Kong awards for its complete transformation.

Perched on the edge of Victoria Harbour, the hotel’s award-winning transformation is highlighted by its unparalleled harbour views, recognised with a flawless score of 100 by The Most Perfect View Certified programme, the first hotel in Asia to achieve this distinction. The recognition affirms Regent Hong Kong’s uninterrupted, panoramic views across Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline, elevating the hotel as a global icon for view-driven luxury.

From serene harbour-facing rooms and suites to cinematic public spaces, Regent Hong Kong offers guests front-row perspectives of the city’s most celebrated landmarks, including the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, The Peak, IFC, Bank of China Tower and the Hong Kong Observation Wheel. Dining destinations such as The Lobby Lounge, Nobu Hong Kong, Lai Ching Heen, Harbourside, Qura Bar and The Steak House, along with the east-facing infinity spa pools at the Pool Terrace, seamlessly integrate these dramatic harbour views into every moment of the guest journey.

Reopened in late 2023, Regent Hong Kong is now standing as a rare sanctuary of understated elegance. It captures the city’s allure whilst aligning with the needs and values of today’s traveller with innovation and sustainability.

The hotel’s redesign was led by Hong Kong–born, Milan-based designer Chi Wing Lo, who brought a serene aesthetic to his first hotel project. His approach blends Regent’s past with sophistication through the brand’s signature “Beauty of Contrasts.”

The design features natural and sustainable materials such as oak and granite, which replace traditional marble to reduce environmental impact. Key heritage elements, including the hotel’s iconic white marble staircase, have been carefully preserved, whilst new touches like a light metal staircase add a contemporary feel.

Furthermore, all 497 rooms and suites have been reimagined as personal havens, quiet and personalised spaces designed for comfort and reflection. Guests can enjoy windowfront daybeds, artistic “Oasis Baths,” custom-made furniture, and mirrored sliding doors that highlight the harbour’s sweeping views.

Former outdoor troughs outside harbourview rooms have been transformed as well into peaceful stone gardens. Some of its notable features are the hand-crafted bronze bonsai sculptures by local artisans, which reflect the hotel’s blend of craftsmanship and modern design.

Suite guests also enjoy the privacy and tailored service of the Regent Club, a residential-style retreat that offers elevated experiences inspired by Hong Kong’s culture.

Moreover, Regent Hong Kong’s transformation supports IHG Hotels & Resorts’ “Journey to Tomorrow” sustainability commitments, as the renovation prioritised energy-efficient systems, water-saving technologies, and improved waste management. Sustainable materials and smart technology were also integrated throughout the hotel.

These efforts are a testament to the hotel’s commitment to responsible travel, setting a new standard for eco-conscious luxury on the Kowloon harbourfront.

Regent Hong Kong’s luxury experience is both timeless and modern, and this is thanks to its refreshed design, sustainable mindset, and unmatched harbourfront location. In the hotel, guests are being indulged in thoughtful hospitality whilst celebrating its rich heritage.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Hong Kong spotlights the exemplary hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives in the travel industry. It gives a platform to the key players that elevate the industry standards with pioneering technologies, eco-conscious initiatives, and unparalleled customer service.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Hong Kong is presented by Travel Daily Media. To view the full list of winners, click here. For more information about the awards programme, you may contact Danica Avila at +(65) 3158 1386 or awardshongkong@traveldailymedia.com.

The company has reimagined the classic Hong Kong character “My Boy” with its new campaign.

Ngong Ping 360 has offered nostalgic charm blended with fresh artistic ideas through its new creative campaign centred on “My Boy,” which earned the company the Content Marketing of the Year – Hong Kong and Social Media Campaign of the Year – Hong Kong accolades at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Hong Kong.

The initiative reintroduces “My Boy,” a beloved character in Hong Kong culture, to fans whilst also inviting new audiences to discover the character in an engaging way.

Ngong Ping 360 brought “My Boy” to life by working with nine well-known Hong Kong artists, who reinterpreted the character through 3D installations, 2D artworks, and exclusive crossover merchandise.

Amongst the highlights are Gigi Leung’s black-and-white design inspired by her favourite childhood outfits, as well as special “My Boy” collectables featuring iconic Hong Kong elements like the Ngong Ping Cable Car, Big Buddha, and cha chaan teng cafés.

The campaign was built to showcase Hong Kong culture to both international visitors and local residents and to make “My Boy” relatable to global audiences whilst keeping the character’s original spirit intact. Additionally, it refreshes a nostalgic classic without losing the charm that has made the character a local favourite for decades.

With the campaign, the company aims to strengthen Ngong Ping 360’s position as a top Hong Kong attraction. It further targets to revitalise its brand with local cultural flair and boost cable car ticket sales and merchant revenue during the holiday period.

Interactive experiences played a major role in driving engagement. One of these is the “My Boy” Egg Hunt Adventure, where visitors explore Ngong Ping Village and collect stamps for Easter-themed prizes. There is also the Easter Egg Hand-Painting Workshop for children, where they can create their own art under the guidance of professional tutors.

Moreover, to draw more families to visit, Ngong Ping 360 introduced a HK$30 round-trip cable car ticket for local children. This successfully increased visits from young guests, with adults and seniors accompanying them.

The campaign rolled out in three phases, namely preheat, opening, and momentum retention. These phases were supported by teaser content, media coverage, KOL visits, and roadshows in Mainland China. Furthermore, there were activities in Shenzhen communities and metro stations that helped reach Mainland visitors, whilst a dedicated media tour on April 19 showcased Ngong Ping 360’s attractions to leading Mainland media outlets.

These efforts were definitely not in vain, as the company recorded a rise in local visitation at 22% year-on-year. The HK$30 child ticket drove a 50% increase in local child visitation, with each child bringing an average of two adults. On top of this, social media engagement reached 19,420 interactions, and website traffic totalled 21,362 visits.

The campaign also generated 260 media stories across Hong Kong and Mainland China, with a total media value of over HK$8m.

But beyond strong performance numbers, the company underscored how the campaign helped shine a spotlight on Hong Kong’s talent and cultural heritage. By reinventing the well-loved “My Boy” character, Ngong Ping 360 delivered an experience that resonated with local and international audiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Hong Kong spotlights the exemplary hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives in the travel industry. It gives a platform to the key players that elevate the industry standards with pioneering technologies, eco-conscious initiatives, and unparalleled customer service.

The company has championed diversity with its new Muslim-friendly facilities at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited (HML) has aligned with the Hong Kong SAR Government’s efforts in promoting Muslim-friendly tourism and business activities, which earned it the Meetings & Conferencing Property of the Year – Hong Kong and Diversity and Inclusion Initiative of the Year – Hong Kong honours at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited (HML) is a professional private management and operating company. HML is responsible for providing day-to-day management for the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), where it oversees administration, marketing, business development, booking, scheduling, event co-ordination, building maintenance and security.

HKCEC welcomes around 800 events and over 7.8 million visitors from around the world every year. With this, HML has been taking proactive steps to better serve the growing number of Muslim exhibitors, buyers, and attendees, which also reflects its commitment to inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and elevating the visitor experience for people of all backgrounds.

These facilities are introduced as Hong Kong continues to strengthen its position as Asia’s premier event hub. This is evident in the increase in participation in international exhibitions and conferences of Muslim-majority regions such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

HML offers facilities that support the needs of Muslim visitors to boost satisfaction, encourage repeat visits, and enhance Hong Kong’s reputation as a Muslim-friendly destination.

HML’s initiative includes the introduction of a range of new Muslim-friendly facilities at the HKCEC, such as a dedicated prayer room, upgraded water-friendly features in nearby restrooms, and expanded Halal-certified food options for visitors.

The new prayer room on the second floor of the HKCEC, which was converted from an existing organiser’s office after careful consideration of user needs, provides a quiet and respectful space for worship. It has separate sections for men and women, each marked with the Qibla direction. Prayer mats are provided for added convenience.

Additionally, a pair of restrooms located next to the prayer room has also been upgraded with water-friendly features suitable for ablution, including hand showers and specialised washing stations. These enhancements were developed with guidance from cultural experts.

When it comes to dining options, HML has strengthened its food offerings to meet the dietary needs of Muslim guests. The Harbour Road Café, located at the HKCEC entrance lobby, offers a selection of Halal-certified snacks and food items. Halal options are also available during major exhibitions and conferences at concession stands throughout the venue.

Meanwhile, for exhibitors or organisers with customised needs, HML’s food and beverage team can create tailor-made Halal menus for corporate banquets to casual gatherings. This service also includes sourcing ingredients from certified suppliers and ensuring staff are trained in Halal protocols.

HML’s holistic approach to inclusivity enhances the HKCEC’s appeal to event organisers worldwide and supports Hong Kong’s wider tourism and business goals.

More than meeting practical needs, the company’s new facilities represent a forward-looking strategy that benefits the exhibition industry, visitors, as well as the local economy.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Hong Kong spotlights the exemplary hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives in the travel industry. It gives a platform to the key players that elevate the industry standards with pioneering technologies, eco-conscious initiatives, and unparalleled customer service.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Hong Kong is presented by Travel Daily Media. To view the full list of winners, click here. For more information about the awards programme, you may contact Danica Avila at +(65) 3158 1386 or awardshongkong@traveldailymedia.com.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, Agoda has unveiled new data highlighting Thailand’s top trending destinations for couples. The digital travel platform reports a significant rise in domestic travel interest, with accommodation searches up nearly 130% compared to last year. This increase is attributed to Valentine’s Day coinciding with a weekend, offering couples an ideal opportunity for a romantic getaway.

Beach destinations remain popular, with Surat Thani leading the charge. The region has seen a tenfold increase in searches, thanks to attractions like Koh Samui’s Chaweng Beach and Ang Thong National Marine Park. Other coastal favourites include Krabi, known for its limestone cliffs, and Hua Hin, which offers a relaxed atmosphere close to Bangkok.

Mountain retreats are also gaining traction. Kanchanaburi, with its riverside landscapes and attractions like the River Kwai Bridge, has tripled in search interest. Khao Yai and Chiang Mai continue to draw couples with their scenic views and cultural charm.

City destinations are not left behind, with Chonburi experiencing the highest growth in interest. Its proximity to Bangsaen Beach offers a blend of city life and seaside relaxation. Pattaya and Bangkok remain popular for their vibrant settings and iconic backdrops.

Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director, Thailand at Agoda, noted, “Valentine’s Day remains one of the most meaningful times of year for couples to travel with purpose.” Agoda’s Mega Sale, running from 14 to 28 February, offers up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with additional flash sales and exclusive deals available

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub at Dubai South has achieved a historic milestone, recording 20,289 business aviation movements in 2025. This marks a 17% increase from the previous year, setting a new record for private jet activity in Dubai. The growth was particularly notable in Q4 2025, with over 6,926 movements, an 18% year-on-year increase compared to Q4 2024.

Several factors contributed to this surge, including Dubai’s status as a global hub for business, exhibitions, leisure, and entertainment. The successful hosting of major events such as the Dubai Airshow 2025, GITEX Global, and the World Government Summit also played a significant role. Additionally, data from the Dubai Economic and Tourism Department highlighted that the emirate welcomed 19.59 million international overnight visitors in 2025, a 5% increase from 2024.

H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, commented on the achievement: “The record growth in business aviation movements reflects Dubai’s continued evolution as a global centre for aviation, trade, and tourism. At Dubai South, we remain focused on building a future-ready ecosystem that supports long-term demand, enables seamless operations and reinforces our role in advancing our wise leadership’s vision of positioning Dubai as the aviation capital of the world.”

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub offers global aerospace players high-level connectivity and serves as a free-zone destination for leading airlines, private jet companies, and associated industries. Located within Dubai South, it also hosts maintenance centres and training and education campuses

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.