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Int2Cruises, Asia’s Cruise-First OTA launches in India
In a move set to reshape the way Indian travellers discover and book cruise vacations, Int2Cruises, Asia’s cruise-first Online Travel Agency (OTA), has officially marked its entry into the Indian market. Built by cruise industry veterans with over 50 years of combined global experience, the platform aims to bring convenience, transparency, and affordability to a category often perceived as complex and inaccessible. Cruise vacations are fast gaining momentum among Indian families, young explorers, and multi-generational travellers, yet planning remains highly fragmented, often requiring separate bookings for the cruise, flights, hotels, visas, and excursions. Int2Cruises solves this problem with an all-in-one digital platform that lets users compare ships, itineraries, and real-time pricing across global cruise lines, while also offering full-service support for every element of the vacation. Akansha Agarwal, CMO at Int2Cruises said: “Indian travellers today are confident, digitally savvy, and looking for memorable experiences. But cruise booking remains fragmented and often overwhelming. With Int2Cruises, we have built a seamless, end-to-end platform that removes the stress and adds joy to the planning process. It’s a cruise booking, the way it should be, simple, transparent, and expert-backed.” The platform aggregates live inventory from all major cruise lines. To name a few, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea, MSC Cruises, Costa, Ama Waterways and Viking River Cruises and Disney Cruise Line, allowing users to compare cabin types, fares, and departure dates in real time. With just three clicks, travellers can secure bookings with no hidden fees, zero service charges, and multiple secure payment options. Cabins can also be held for free, with the flexibility to pay later, offering convenience and control throughout the planning process. What sets Int2Cruises apart is its tech-led, service-first philosophy. AI and machine learning power personalised cruise recommendations based on individual travel preferences and history, while a dedicated cruise expert is always available via chat or call for real-time support. The platform goes far beyond simple bookings, offering end-to-end holiday planning that includes visa and insurance assistance, curated pre- and post-cruise stays, destination-specific shore excursions, and smooth airport transfers, all backed by best-price guarantees. With short-haul cruises from Mumbai, Singapore, Dubai, and Japan gaining momentum, and younger Indian travellers prioritising experiences over logistics, cruise tourism is at a tipping point. Trends like multigenerational travel, immersive itineraries, and adventure-led voyages are redefining how Indians engage with holidays at sea. Positioned at the centre of this shift, Int2Cruises is building the go-to platform for India’s new wave of cruise travellers, offering depth, flexibility, and trusted expertise under one digital roof.
HBX Group takes travel AI to the next level
Independent B2B travel tech marketplace HBX Group is set to take the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the global travel sector to the next level. With a strategic evolution focused on automation and personalisation, the company is optimising hotel distribution, improving customer service and facilitating real-time decision making. Thanks to the integration of advanced AI models, HBX Group already handles 20 percent of customer service contacts exclusively through AI in those areas where it has been implemented, reducing response times to seconds for the most common requests. This progress reinforces HBX Group’s position as a leader in technological innovation, with plans to further expand automation and improve service quality. Not the future but the present According to chief operations officer Xabier Zabala, AI is not the future, but it is the present. Zabala said: “AI’s impact on distribution and personalisation of the journey is already generating tangible results for our customers and partners. With this evolution, we are improving operational efficiency and offering a more agile service adapted to the needs of the market.” In order to achieve this, the company has implemented multiple AI-based solutions that are revolutionising the booking management, customer service and commercial management of its partners. These solutions include: Automated omnichannel customer service; Implementation of virtual assistants through chat, email and web channels that not only resolve frequent queries, but also manage requests and bookings, with unbeatable response times; Training of new recruits; Transformation of the process of preparing and training new customer service agents with the use of a new AI tool that realistically simulates the interactions and assistance needs of customers, being able to simulate multiple scenarios, languages and levels of difficulty; Automated content improvement; Automatic identification and execution of improvement opportunities in hotel service descriptions and experiences, as well as immediate translation into 18 languages; Anomaly prediction and detection; and Machine learning models that identify unusual patterns in bookings and user behaviour, enabling faster and more accurate detections of phishing attempts and thwarting the targets of cybercriminals How AI stands to change teamwork in the face of evolving automation Beyond transforming the customer experience, AI is redefining the way support and distribution teams operate at HBX Group. The automation of repetitive tasks has enabled customer service agents and sales teams to focus on strategic and higher value-added aspects. To support this change, the company has launched specific training programmes for its customer service teams to develop the skills needed to work in conjunction with AI systems. These include training using AI agents that behave like customers to train teams to handle more complex cases and deliver higher-value interactions, demand prediction to efficiently manage resources, advanced itinerary personalisation, expansion of virtual assistants in multiple languages and automation of financial processes. In addition, they seek to implement predictive AI that not only responds to customer needs, but anticipates them, thus improving user experience and operational management. According to Zabala: “With these initiatives, we reaffirm our commitment to technological innovation and the digital transformation of the tourism sector, consolidating our position as a benchmark in the application of AI to optimise processes and improve the customer experience.” How technology stands to change security, transparency, and compliance The implementation of AI at HBX Group is accompanied by rigorous security and compliance protocols to ensure data protection and transparency in the use of these technologies. All solutions developed comply with international standards, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other industry-relevant regulations. To avoid bias and ensure responsible use and operation, the company has developed a system of continuous auditing and monitoring. This monitoring allows the performance of AI models to be evaluated, ensuring that recommendations and automations are interpretable, auditable and aligned with HBX Group values.
Arabian Travel Market to gather global AI experts to explore new frontiers in travel
The transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be under the spotlight at Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which takes place from 28 April to 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The international travel event will gather experts and thought leaders in AI from around the world to explore how AI is changing the landscape of leisure and business travel, streamlining operations and improving the customer journey. According to recent research by Statista, AI and machine learning have accounted for approximately two-thirds of global technology investment deals by travel and mobility companies since 2020. Across the travel industry, AI is being embraced at every level, from customers using AI-powered tools to plan their journeys to tourism providers leveraging AI to improve resource management and deliver more personalised guest services. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “At ATM 2025, we are thrilled to announce an exciting lineup of visionary speakers. Attendees can expect engaging discussions that delve into the latest technological advancements, ethical considerations, and real-world applications. In addition, we will showcase groundbreaking developments across the exhibition, from sophisticated booking solutions to data analysis tools that empower organisations to make informed decisions. This is an unparalleled opportunity for travel industry professionals to be at the forefront of AI and gain actionable insights that can drive business success.” On the opening day of ATM, Cassie Kozyrkov, CEO of Kozyr and a globally renowned speaker in AI, will lead an insightful session on “AI adoption: From Buzzwords to Business Strategy”, where she will outline how companies in the travel industry can identify genuine opportunities to improve their businesses. Kozyrkov will delve into why organisations struggle, uncover the biggest threats in the field and discuss what AI means for the future. Best known for founding the field of ‘Decision Intelligence’ and serving as Google’s first Chief Decision Scientist, where she spearheaded the tech giant’s AI-first transformation, Kozyrkov is a sought-after AI advisor and speaker who has transformed how organisations such as Gucci, NASA, Spotify, Meta and GSK approach AI strategy. She has presented on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including the United Nations (UN), and the World Economic Forum and is set to inspire and empower audiences at ATM on how to navigate the future with confidence and innovation. Speaking ahead of the event, Kozyrkov said: “I am delighted to be attending Arabian Travel Market 2025. There is a lot of hype around AI, but it can sometimes be difficult to separate the fact from the fiction. My session will help attendees see the opportunities to apply AI to their business, while also improving their lives and the lives of those around them. “AI has so much potential to unlock a better world. I hope I will be able to inspire attendees and show practical ways to harness the power and the beauty of data for automation.” Elsewhere at ATM, Futurist and travel expert John Duffield will share fascinating insights on how AI and smart systems are reshaping the industry by enabling hyper-personalised experiences, seamless connectivity and innovations. During his presentation, Duffield will also discuss how travel providers can act now to prepare for these technologies, while addressing challenges such as data privacy and resistance to change. As technology continues to evolve, travel companies are identifying innovative ways to use human-centric technologies to connect with their customers. On 30 April, a panel of thought leaders, including Robin Lawther, VP Expedia TAAP, Expedia Group, will examine how the travel industry can use human-centric technology, addressing the ethical considerations surrounding AI, privacy and the importance of maintaining the human touch in an increasingly automated world. Dorothee Anjos, General Manager, Middle East at Multilem, will also touch on the importance of the human element in a thought-provoking discussion on the relationship between human connection and AI in the events industry. During this session, she will explore how integrating both is revolutionising the planning, execution, and experience of events, as well as addressing the challenges posed by the rise of AI. On 30 April, Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports will provide a comprehensive overview of what’s next for aviation in the age of transformation and global disruption, touching on how AI, among several other factors, is reshaping the future of flight. The session will discuss the role of artificial intelligence in optimising operations, predictive maintenance and passenger experience. Finally, Graham Pope, Vice President, Sales Supplier and Venue Solutions at Cvent will host a session titled Future-proofing 2025: Trends, AI and shifts in business and MICE travel, exploring how business event organisers can measure the impact of their events using a blend of strategic planning, effective data collection and robust analysis, of which AI plays a key role.
IndiGo to implement Amadeus SRM Flex
IndiGo has reached an agreement with Amadeus to implement advanced Revenue Management technology, Amadeus Segment Revenue Management Flex (Amadeus SRM Flex). With the adoption of this cloud-based Revenue Management system, IndiGo will benefit from an intuitive and easy-to-operate user interface. The web-based application, SRM Flex will receive information from IndiGo’s Navitaire New Skies® Passenger Service System (PSS) through its cutting-edge Revenue Management Integration Service. This will enable near real-time data exchange capabilities allowing the carrier to immediately respond to market dynamics such as new bookings or equipment changes. Price setting capabilities within the system can be adjusted to be rule-based, science-based, or a mix of both depending on the carrier’s strategy. Repetitive routines can also be automated in order to optimize operational efficiency and increase revenue opportunities. Abhijit Dasgupta, SVP – Planning and Revenue Management IndiGo, says: “IndiGo is making great progress on its journey ‘Towards New Heights and across New Frontiers’ to adapt and excel in the evolving aviation industry. Amadeus’ Revenue Management technology will enable IndiGo’s revenue management team to have more granular steering controls, make quicker business decisions, drive greater automation and increase efficiency across the board. IndiGo will be able to streamline its operations by consolidating interfaces into one, resulting in time optimization and a sharper focus on more sophisticated Revenue Management strategies required for a fast-growing network in a diverse set of markets and passenger segments. Most importantly, it enables IndiGo to merge its own growing data science & machine learning capabilities with the solution, leveraging the strengths of both IndiGo and Amadeus to develop an ecosystem that can cater to IndiGo’s expansion plans and future growth.” Javier Laforgue, Executive Vice President, Travel Unit & Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Amadeus, says, “We are pleased to work with IndiGo to make the most of this technology. Together, we will help maximize the carrier’s revenue opportunities and create new efficiencies so IndiGo can focus on providing great service to its passengers. Amadeus’ Revenue Management technology is open, PSS agnostic, modular, and easy to use. It can also be seamlessly integrated with external solutions that IndiGo currently uses or plans to use. We are confident that this technology will firmly place IndiGo on solid footing for the long term as it looks to grow in India and beyond.” David P. Evans, Head of Navitaire, added, “We’re thrilled that IndiGo has adopted Amadeus’ Revenue Management technology to drive new opportunities and growth. Navitaire's open, adaptable and scalable platform enables airlines like IndiGo to connect to their preferred business partners, helping to enhance their Revenue Management capabilities, streamline operations and respond swiftly to market dynamics. We look forward to supporting IndiGo in their growth and expansion efforts." IndiGo has charted a course of rapid growth in India and across the globe, backed by a firm order for 500 A320 aircraft. Its selection of Amadeus SRM Flex will ensure that it has the right technology in place to support this growth far into the future. Currently, IndiGo features a fleet of over 400 aircraft, with more than 2,200 daily flights, connecting 120+ destinations, of which 38 are international. Last year, the carrier welcomed over 113 million passengers and launched its business class offering, IndiGoStretch, and loyalty program, IndiGo BluChip.
Global passenger numbers are expected to reach 17.7 billion by 2043: ACI
Airports Council International (ACI) World recently unveiled its anticipated Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053, projecting significant long-term growth in global passenger traffic. Over the next three decades, global passenger numbers are expected to reach 17.7 billion by 2043 and 22.3 billion by 2053, the later nearly 2.4 times the projected volume for 2024. The new forecasts, which cover 99.8% of global markets across 161 countries, highlight a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2024 to 2043, with a slightly slower CAGR of 3% from 2024 to 2053. The projections indicate a steady upward trajectory in global aviation, driven by factors such as rising middle-class travel demand in emerging markets, strengthened international travel, and continued investments in airport infrastructure. However, short-term challenges include geopolitical tensions, economic instability, trade shifts like reintroduced tariffs, and supply chain bottlenecks, which may slow recovery in some regions. ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci commented: “Despite the challenges in the near term, global air travel is poised for steady, sustained growth. It is crucial for airports, airlines, and policymakers to take bold, forward-thinking action to anticipate and meet the demands of the future. ACI World remains unwavering in its commitment to support its airport members, helping them navigate evolving dynamics and seize opportunities ahead.” Key long-term highlights: Global passenger traffic growth: Between 2024 and 2043, global passenger traffic is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.4%, reaching 17.7 billion passengers. By 2053, global passenger traffic is expected to nearly double, reaching 22.3 billion, reflecting a CAGR of 3% from 2024 to 2053. Domestic vs. international global traffic growth: International passenger traffic is expected to grow at a faster rate than domestic traffic over the next three decades. From 2024 to 2053, international traffic is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.3%, while domestic traffic will expand at a slightly slower pace of 2.8%. Growth in emerging markets: The forecast highlights continued strong growth in emerging markets, driven by a rising middle class and increasing demand for air travel. Investments in airport infrastructure in these regions will play a key role in supporting this expansion. Air cargo growth: Global air cargo is projected to grow steadily, with a CAGR of 2.7% from 2024 to 2043 and 2.4% from 2024 to 2053. However, ACI World cautions that evolving trade policies and supply chain disruptions could introduce volatility in the sector. Aircraft movements: The number of aircraft movements is expected to increase significantly, reaching 149 million by 2043 and 176 million by 2053. Airports worldwide will need to prepare for this growth by enhancing operational efficiency and investing in infrastructure. To help airport planners and investors navigate this evolving landscape, the ACI World Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053 includes granular forecasts for: total passengers (international & domestic), air cargo volumes, and total aircraft movements. The latest report also introduces a new forecasting methodology based on advanced machine learning techniques, ensuring greater accuracy and relevance for long-term data-driven decision-making.
Athar Festival 2025 returns for its third edition
The third edition of Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity, the largest gathering of the creative marketing industry in Saudi Arabia, is set to take place from 21-22 October 2025 at JAX District – Diriyah Biennale Foundation in Riyadh. With an expanded format and an even greater focus on international industry collaboration, this year’s edition spotlights Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a global creative hub, positioning the Kingdom as a leading force in creative marketing, brand storytelling, and innovation. As Saudi Arabia’s creative landscape continues its rapid transformation, Athar Festival 2025 presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS, will enable brands, agencies, and creative professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and unlock new business opportunities. This year’s expanded programme introduces three content stages, an all-new talent hub, and bespoke networking activations, ensuring that attendees gain unparalleled access to industry insights, skill-building opportunities, and global connections. Ian Fairservice, Chairman of Athar Festival and Managing Partner of Motivate Media Group, said: “As Saudi Arabia continues to push the boundaries of creative excellence in alignment with Vision 2030, Athar Festival remains a vital force in shaping the industry’s future. This year, we are expanding our global reach with international trade delegations, and industry leaders. By connecting Saudi Arabia’s creative industry with more markets, the festival will not only showcase the Kingdom as a talent hub but also create new pathways for collaboration and investment in the region’s growing creative economy.” Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, added: “Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as the region’s leader in creative communications – essential for any future-ready nation. Athar Festival plays a pivotal role in shaping the industry by driving innovation, talent development, and strategic collaborations. The 2025 edition, featuring new initiatives like the Talent Hub and a dedicated startup exhibition space, offers an unparalleled platform to challenge creative boundaries, celebrate creative excellence, and catalyse the Kingdom’s creative economy.” Building on the success of its second edition in 2024, which attracted over 1,700 attendees and featured leading voices in creative marketing, Athar Festival 2025 will be even more ambitious. The festival targets to draw 4,000+ brands, agencies, creative marketing experts and professionals, young talent, as well as students to its new high-capacity venue, featuring 150+ world-class speakers, and over 80 brand activations, reflecting its commitment to advancing the Kingdom’s creative economy. Additionally, the festival will introduce new industry streams across content, activations, and the exhibition space for agencies and brands participating in this year’s edition. The first of these is the Creative Impact stream, which will focus on brand storytelling, advertising and marketing. The Future Forward stream will explore AI, machine learning, and data-driven marketing among other innovations in the industry. The Screen & Influence stream would cover film production and content creation from an advertising perspective alongside influencer marketing, as well as media distribution. The final stream, centred on Luxury & Lifestyle, will target the world of marketing in the realms of fashion, travel, hospitality, and premium experiences. The festival’s main content agenda will run from 21-22 October, featuring thought-provoking discussions, immersive activations, and hands-on workshops across three content stages. The highly anticipated Athar Awards has also expanded to include the four new streams and will be held over the course of a two-day celebration. Recognising outstanding creative excellence, the first day will award top Saudi talent under the individual and team categories, while the second day will honour the most creative campaigns in the Kingdom. Athar Festival 2025 will also see the participation of international trade delegations, bridging the Saudi creative marketing industry with its global counterparts. Furthermore, the festival will feature a dedicated startup exhibition space, offering new ventures in advertising, media, and technology an exclusive opportunity to present their cutting-edge solutions to investors and industry leaders. With extended festival hours from 10 AM to 10 PM each day, attendees will have more time to engage with activations, exhibitions, and networking spaces. As Saudi Arabia continues to push the boundaries of creative excellence in alignment with Vision 2030, Athar Festival remains a vital force in shaping the industry’s future. Evolving to provide a global stage for ideas, talent, and innovation, the festival is set to reinforce Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a thriving hub for creativity and marketing.
DidaTravel reveals its new brand identity as just Dida
B2B travel distribution company DidaTravel has announced the launch of a dynamic new identity, marked by its decision to simplify its brand name to just Dida. The new brand identity was developed in response to the feedback of its supplier and client partners around the world who consistently identified Dida’s high-value distribution reach, technological expertise and the flexibility of its international teams as its main differentiators. The new evolved identity is designed to better reflect and communicate these strengths and aligns to the company’s vision of delivering smarter solutions to power the strongest partnerships. On to the next chapter The decision to simplify the name to Dida marks the next chapter in the company’s journey, as it plans to take innovation to the next level. Dida intends to do this by harnessing the power of data, machine learning and generative AI to drive exceptional efficiency, as well as remove many of the key pain-points currently experienced across the industry. Dida founder and chief executive Rikin Wu said: “Our new identity is more than just a change of logo or branding — it’s a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. Over the years, our partners have consistently praised our tech-driven solutions and the adaptability of our teams.” Wu added that the new Dida brand embodies those strengths, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering smarter, more flexible solutions that will help their partners thrive in an increasingly competitive market. Wu concluded by saying: “In the future, we look forward to collaborating with leading enterprises in and beyond the travel industry, leveraging our strengths and AI technology to explore even more innovative business models.”
Aviation industry focuses on cybersecurity
SITA's 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report, published today, reveals how airlines and airports are increasing investment in cybersecurity, biometrics, and sustainable IT solutions. This is how they plan to cope with growing digital threats and rising passenger numbers. 74% of airlines and 72% of airports forecast an increase in overall IT spend over the next two years. These investments show how the aviation industry is working toward a future of safer, smoother, and more sustainable air travel. In 2024, the industry's overall IT spend increased and was estimated to reach $37bn for airlines, and almost $9bn for airports. One clear area of focus for the industry is cybersecurity. The report reveals that 66% of airlines and 73% of airports mention it as one of their top three areas of focus. This confirms how important it’s becoming to protect critical systems and passenger data as cyber threats get more advanced. About half of airlines and three-quarters of airports are starting their digital transformation by upgrading IT infrastructure, moving to the cloud, and safeguarding data. Meanwhile, biometrics and AI are enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency making it the natural next step. David Lavorel, CEO of SITA, said: "This year's findings highlight a pivotal moment for the aviation industry. As cyber threats become more complex, airlines and airports are taking decisive action to protect their operations and passengers. At the same time, biometrics and AI tech are simplifying the travel experience, helping the industry meet growing demand, and build resilience for the future. It’s clear that the air transport industry is going through a transformation, and these numbers prove it.” From safer skies to seamless journeys Biometric tech continues to transform passenger processing. Over half of airports plan to roll out biometrics for check-in and bag drop by 2026. 70% of airlines expect to adopt biometric ID management systems in the same timeframe. These solutions will reduce congestion by speeding up passenger processing by up to 30%, reduce wait times by up to 60%, and help make travel smooth and hassle-free. At the same time, data-driven solutions are transforming how the industry operates. Airlines are using generative AI, large language models, and machine learning to improve flight operations, customer service, and fuel efficiency. Airports are focusing on data platforms and predictive analytics to make real-time decisions and manage passenger flow more effectively. Interestingly, 90% of airlines have already adopted data platforms, and 42% are exploring ways to organize their data for AI projects. Lavorel added: “The air transport industry generates massive amounts of data, but a lot of it doesn't get used or is only looked at on the surface. With AI and machine learning, we can dig deep into this data, meaning we can take large steps in improving key areas such as efficiency, sustainability, security and cost. It also improves the passenger experience. With AI and data analytics, the industry is shifting to a new era of travel tech.” Smart IT to Meet Sustainability Targets Sustainability is leading the way as the industry pushes toward net-zero emissions by 2050. Three quarters of airlines are using real time software for flight optimization, weather risk assessment, and flight operations, and more than half of airlines use real time software to calculate carbon emissions. On top of that, 62% of airlines are working with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) suppliers, a big leap forward in sustainability compared to last year. This is the area that has seen the biggest year-on-year growth. Airports are also taking action, with 54% of them (compared to 29% in 2023) having already implemented energy management systems to track and reduce emissions. In previous reports, it was revealed that 81% of airports planned to implement this tech by 2026 and they’re making steady progress. This is part of a broader trend, with airports and airlines making strides and evolving rapidly in adopting these technologies to make operations sustainable in everyday business, resulting in clean operations, cost savings and efficiencies while paving the way to net 0. “Sustainability is essential for the future of aviation. It's a responsibility we must embrace to drive lasting change,” said Lavorel. “The adoption of tech like flight optimization software and SAF systems shows real progress in reducing carbon footprints. By combining these efforts with advanced analytics, the industry is on track to hit its environmental goals.” As passenger numbers grow and environmental pressures rise, the industry’s focus on tech driven solutions is set to shape the future of travel. The SITA 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report represents the views of over 250 senior airline and airport executives, covering a significant share of global passenger traffic.
IATA to hold first IATA World Data Symposium in February
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will hold the first-ever IATA World Data Symposium (WDS) in Dublin, Ireland on 26th and 27th February. Hosted by Aer Lingus and held under the theme of Digital skies, Unleashing the Power of Data in Aviation, the event will gather experts to discuss topics around data, technology, and cybersecurity. Within these dedicated tracks, the symposium will explore the role of industry leaders in benefitting from cutting-edge data analytics and insights to support decision making; and the impact on aviation of the powerful capabilities that AI is enabling. IATA chief information and data officer Kim Macaulay said of the upcoming event: “By convening aviation’s leading experts to explore the impact and potential of data, technology, and cybersecurity in aviation, the IATA World Data Symposium is establishing itself as the must-attend event. With WDS, we are creating a vital opportunity to take stock of how digitalization is driving change across every element of the airline industry. By sharing our collective experiences, we will all be stronger.” Aer Lingus chief executive Lynne Embleton added: “Data and technology are revolutionizing how we operate in many aspects of our lives, and the aviation industry is no different. The pace and scale of change enabled by digital over the last five years has surpassed anything from the previous 20 years. We are able to better understand our customers, optimize our processes, and use data to drive better decisions in real time. Yet what we have seen to date is only the tip of the iceberg. The applications of emerging technologies like AI, machine learning and robotics are still at an early stage and will continue to drive real changes in the aviation industry.” Embleton and Macaulay will be present to address the conference in a speaker lineup that also includes IATA director-general Willie Walsh; CrowdStrike president and CISO Shawn Henry; Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) chief development officer Habib Turki; Amazon Web Services’ director for worldwide public sector industry sales Abby Daniell; and IATA senior vice-president for sustainability and chief economist Marie Owens Thomsen.
Challenge Tour welcomes HotelPlanner as Title Partner
The Challenge Tour and HotelPlanner jointly announced a multi-year partnership, with the travel technology company becoming the Tour’s title partner from the start of the 2025 season. HotelPlanner, a leading travel technology company that combines proprietary artificial intelligence agents (HotelPlanner.ai) and a 24-hour global gig-based reservations and customer service network, becomes the Challenge Tour’s first title partner since its first official season in 1989. The partnership will help grow the Tour through increased prize funds and by helping to elevate the standard of events on the Road to Mallorca. The 2025 HotelPlanner Tour schedule begins in South Africa next week, with the SDC Open taking place at Zebula Golf Estate & Spa from January 23-26. In total, players will compete for a record total prize fund of over €9,000,000 on the HotelPlanner Tour this season, with each European event having a minimum prize fund of €300,000, meaning prize fund increases for 16 events in total in 2025. The schedule will consist of 29 tournaments staged across three continents in 18 different countries, culminating in the Rolex Grand Final supported by The R&A in Mallorca. In addition to their title partnership, HotelPlanner will provide additional investment into six events on the 2025 HotelPlanner Tour schedule, and a total of 40 tournaments throughout the multi-year partnership. A leading travel technology company, HotelPlanner combines proprietary AI and machine learning capabilities with a 24-hour global customer service network to seamlessly serve all traveller hotel needs from a single platform. They will use their assets, connectivity and people to help grow the Tour and open doors for the game of golf across the world through global travel. Jamie Hodges, HotelPlanner Tour Director, said: “Today’s announcement is undoubtedly a momentous one in the proud history of our Tour. Our Tour will be strengthened because of this hugely significant deal, and that was essential to us and to HotelPlanner. This new partnership will increase prize funds for our membership and elevate the standard of our events. The global reach of HotelPlanner is also aligned with the diversity of our membership and the places and cultures we visit.” Tim Hentschel, HotelPlanner Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are delighted to become the title partner of the Challenge Tour. This partnership provides an excellent platform to engage with customers, prospects, and stakeholders, and build our brand. We share the same vision and values as the Tour, and as a leading travel technology company we will use our people, assets, and connectivity to help grow the game of golf globally and the Tour further. The Challenge Tour has been the foundation of so many great golfing names and we are excited to see the HotelPlanner Tour continue to open doors for the next generation of superstars.” HotelPlanner are a leading travel technology company that combines proprietary artificial intelligence agents (HotelPlanner.ai) and a 24/7 global gig-based reservations and customer service network. Founded in 2003, HotelPlanner has enduring partnerships with the world’s largest Online Travel Agencies, sports franchises, well-known hotel chains, individual hotels, online wedding providers, ancillary lodging providers, corporations, universities and government agencies.
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