Uganda Airlines launches new Zimbabwe route this month

Uganda Airlines is set to launch flights between Entebbe and Harare on 25 September, aiming to boost bilateral trade and tourism between Uganda and Zimbabwe. Chief Commercial Officer Adedayo Olawuyi highlighted the potential for increased trade and tourism, citing the lack of direct air links between the two countries. The airline will initially operate four flights covering Entebbe, Lusaka, and Harare.

The airline plans to expand its services to include Lusaka, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls, tapping into the high-traffic routes between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This move is part of Uganda Airlines’ broader strategy to grow its regional network.

Uganda Airlines also intends to transport cargo, capitalising on the volume of goods traded between the destinations. The carrier hopes to break even within 18 months of launching the new routes.

This expansion comes as Zimbabwe attracts over 20 foreign airlines, thanks to its growing economy, tourism sector, and open skies policy. Uganda Airlines plans to extend its reach to China and London by year-end.

Source: ATTA.     

Aviation workers’ strike impacts travel costing millions.

The brief strike at major airports in Kenya which disrupted international and domestic flights on Tuesday night, September 9, and Wednesday, September 10, left passengers stranded and cost agents and airlines millions.

The strike was triggered by objections to the government’s proposal to lease Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to an Indian company. Workers felt that jobs would be lost, and that control of a Kenyan asset would be lost by Kenya.

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) has commended both the Government and the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) for quickly resolving the impasse and agreeing on a return-to-work formula.

However, KATA emphasized that such industrial action, with its far-reaching consequences, should never have been allowed to occur in the first place. The strike’s impact has been devastating, with the travel industry facing significant financial and operational losses.

Preliminary estimates suggest that members of KATA lost over KES200 million (R27,9m) in air ticket sales alone, excluding rebooking fees and the costs incurred by airlines in accommodating passengers who missed their flights.

“When accounting for related services such as accommodation, ground transfers, and travel insurance, the total losses could easily exceed KES500 million (R69,8m). Some international airlines flew back empty, while others have indefinitely cancelled or rescheduled flights, further disrupting operations,” KATA said.

KATA highlighted that the frustration, anxiety, and distress caused to passengers have tarnished the reputation of Nairobi as a regional aviation hub.

“The strike’s impact on Kenya’s already fragile economy cannot be overstated. KATA calls on the Government to take decisive action to ensure that the underlying issues with the workers’ union are permanently resolved, preventing any future disruptions to airport operations. Kenya simply cannot afford another crisis of this magnitude.”

Source:   Travel News

Ethiopian Airlines Expands African Reach with a New Port Sudan Service

Ethiopian Airlines is delighted to announce the launch of a daily flight service to Port Sudan, Sudan, commencing on October 15, 2024. This strategic expansion further strengthens Ethiopian’s commitment to enhancing connectivity across the African continent and beyond, fostering regional socio-economic growth and facilitating trade and tourism.

The new route will provide seamless travel options for passengers traveling between Ethiopia and Sudan, as well as connecting travelers from across the vast Ethiopian Airlines network to this significant Red Sea port city. The introduction of this service underscores Ethiopian’s dedication to serving the evolving needs of the African market and contributing to the continent’s economic development. By connecting Port Sudan to its extensive global network, Ethiopian Airlines aims to unlock new opportunities for businesses, travelers, and communities, promoting cross-border collaboration and cultural exchange.

The inaugural flight, ET350, will depart from Addis Ababa at 11:00 and arrive in Port Sudan at 12:15. The return flight, ET 351, will leave Port Sudan at 14:15, arriving back in Addis Ababa at 17:30. Both flights will be operated by the state-of-the-art Boeing 737 Max aircraft, ensuring a comfortable and reliable journey.

“We are pleased to connect our Sudanese brothers and sisters from Port Sudan to Addis Ababa, and to the rest of the world using our extensive global network,” says Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “By introducing daily flights to Port Sudan, we are bridging cultures and economies. This expansion is a testament to our unwavering dedication to serve our continent and its people, driving progress and prosperity through the skies.”

With the inclusion of Port Sudan, Ethiopian Airlines expands its network to 66 destinations within Africa. The inauguration of this new route emphasizes Ethiopian Airlines’ dedication to broadening its presence throughout Africa, while simultaneously enhancing connectivity for both business and leisure travelers. Port Sudan, a city strategically situated along the Red Sea, acts as an essential center for commerce and economics in the region. This development offers a gateway to the diverse cultural history and burgeoning economic prospects of Sudan.

Ethiopian Airlines invites passengers to experience the warmth and hospitality of its newest destination, Port Sudan. Book your journey today and be part of the growth story that is Ethiopian Airlines – the New Spirit of Africa.

For detailed flight schedules and bookings, please visit our website.

(https://www.ethiopianairlines.com/et) or contact your local Ethiopian Airlines office.

About Ethiopian

Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is one of the fastest-growing airlines brand globally and the continent’s largest airline brand. In its seventy-eight years of successful operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 150 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet category consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900 and De Havilland Q400.

Ethiopian is also pursuing multi-hub strategy through hubs in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways. Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan Vision 2035 that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world. Ethiopian has been champion in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for seven consecutive years among others. The airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and has been registering more than threefold growth in the past 10 years.

For more at: www.ethiopianairlines.com

https://corporate.ethiopianairlines.com/media/Press-Release

Contact us on: nbores@ethiopianairlines.com or nbocto@ethiopianairlines.com

Source: https://corporate.ethiopianairlines.com/media/Press-Release

CityBlue Hotels partners with National Museums of Kenya to launch night tours

The night tours will offer visitors an exclusive, after-hours experience, allowing them to explore NMK’s cultural treasures in an intimate and immersive way. The launch marks a significant milestone in enhancing the country’s cultural tourism offerings.

Speaking at the event, Jameel Verjee, Founder & CEO of CityBlue Hotels, emphasised the unique role NMK plays in preserving Kenya’s living cultural and natural heritage. “As CityBlue, we are proud to be part of NMK’s journey in heritage preservation. NMK manages a vast collection of regional museums, monuments, and sites of both national and international importance, and we are honoured to support the mission of contributing to the conservation and development of our nation’s rich cultural heritage,” he said.

Edwin Abonyo, Chair of NMK’s Board of Directors, expressed gratitude to CityBlue Hotels for their commitment to supporting heritage tourism. “CityBlue Hotels has been a steadfast supporter of NMK’s cultural initiatives. Their partnership reflects their dedication to enhancing the visitor experience, expanding NMK’s reach, and offering new opportunities for guests to delve deeper into Kenya’s heritage in a more engaging and intimate setting,” said Abonyo.

Abonyo also highlighted that this partnership will help reshape the perception of museums as places only for students.“Through this collaboration, we aim to reach a broader audience and offer dynamic cultural experiences. The partnership will focus on several areas, including the preservation and conservation of heritage, cultural exchange, educational opportunities, joint exhibitions, and revenue generation,” he added.

Prof. Mary Gikungu, Director General of NMK, also spoke at the launch, lauding the collaboration as a transformative step in NMK’s engagement with the private sector. “This partnership with CityBlue Hotels aligns with NMK’s mission to conserve Kenya’s cultural heritage and biodiversity. Together, we will create a unique experience for our visitors, and this collaboration will undoubtedly enhance NMK’s story,” she said.

Prof. Gikungu emphasised the exclusivity of the Museum Night Tours, designed to offer an uninterrupted exploration of NMK’s galleries, which include the Hall of Kenya, Great Hall of Mammals, Human Origins, Birds of East Africa, and the Contemporary Art Galleries, among others. Visitors will also experience the Cradle of Humankind gallery in an intimate setting.

Complementing the night tours will be refreshments and live entertainment featuring traditional cultural dancers, creating a vibrant Nairobi nightlife atmosphere at the museum. The tours will be available through advance bookings for groups of ten or more, providing a personalized experience.

In addition to the Museum Night Tours, NMK will continue to offer a variety of other services such as venues for hire for concerts, conferences, corporate product launches, weddings, photo sessions, and staff parties.

 Source:  Pulse

Dubai’s Healthcare Tourism Industry Thrives as 691,000 International arrivals, expected at This Year’s Medical Expo

The International Exhibition of Medical Tourism is set to take place in Dubai on October 17-18, 2024, at the prestigious Habtoor Palace. This highly anticipated event will gather healthcare professionals, institutions, and medical tourism experts from around the globe, focusing on the latest advancements in medical technology, healthcare services, and tourism.

Organized by the International Chamber of Healthcare and Medical Tourism (ICHMT), the exhibition aims to foster a collaborative and innovative ecosystem where stakeholders from diverse healthcare sectors can come together to share knowledge, build partnerships, and explore opportunities to advance medical tourism. As Dubai continues to establish itself as a key player in global health tourism, this event promises to be a cornerstone in connecting industry leaders with the latest innovations and best practices.

ICHMT’s Vision and Mission

At ICHMT, the vision is clear: to create a world where every healthcare professional, institution, and business thrives in an ecosystem of collaboration and innovation. The Chamber envisions a future where global healthcare communities work seamlessly together, harnessing technological advancements and medical expertise to make high-quality healthcare accessible to all.

The Chamber’s mission focuses on promoting collaboration, fostering innovation, and maintaining excellence across the healthcare industry. By providing platforms like the International Exhibition of Medical Tourism, ICHMT encourages the exchange of knowledge, the formation of strategic partnerships, and the promotion of healthcare policies that improve the quality and affordability of medical services worldwide.

Why Dubai?

Dubai’s position as a hub for medical tourism has been solidified over recent years. In 2023, the emirate welcomed over 691,000 health tourists, generating more than AED 1.03 billion in healthcare spending. This success was built on the foundations laid in 2022, when health tourism in Dubai saw 674,000 visitors spending AED 992 million. The city’s state-of-the-art healthcare infrastructure, skilled medical professionals, and high standards in patient care make it an attractive destination for medical tourists from around the world.

Key Participants

The International Exhibition of Medical Tourism in Dubai will feature a wide range of participants, including:

Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, specialists, and allied health professionals.

Medical Tourism Facilitators: Agencies, hotels, and destination management companies.

Healthcare Institutions: Hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and academic medical institutions.

Healthcare Industry Leaders: Pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, biotech firms, and health IT providers.

Wellness Practitioners: Experts in alternative therapies such as Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine, and holistic healthcare.

Government Agencies: Health ministries, regulatory bodies, and economic development agencies focused on promoting healthcare investment.

What to Expect at the Exhibition

Attendees can look forward to insightful keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops that delve into the future of medical tourism. Topics will range from innovations in medical technology and healthcare services to best practices in healthcare management, patient care, and international collaboration. Networking opportunities will allow participants to forge meaningful connections, explore business ventures, and discuss future collaborations in the healthcare and medical tourism sectors.

A Traveler’s Guide to Dubai During the Medical Tourism Exhibition

If you’re planning to visit Dubai for the International Exhibition of Medical Tourism, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Getting There

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the world. Direct flights from major cities around the globe make it easy to reach Dubai. Once you land, the city’s modern transport system, including taxis, metro, and buses, will ensure smooth travel around the city.

2. Where to Stay

If you are attending the exhibition at Habtoor Palace, consider staying in one of the luxury hotels nearby. The Habtoor Palace itself offers an opulent stay, while other nearby options include the Waldorf Astoria and Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City.

3. Exploring Dubai

While in Dubai, make sure to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the enchanting Dubai Fountain, there’s no shortage of things to see. For more culturally inclined travelers, a visit to the Dubai Museum or a stroll through the historic Al Fahidi district is a must. And of course, don’t miss the opportunity to shop at the world-famous Dubai Mall or souks that offer a blend of modern and traditional goods.

4. Medical Tourism Services

If you’re in Dubai for medical purposes, the city offers a wide range of specialized treatments in areas like cardiology, fertility, cosmetic surgery, and wellness therapies. Make sure to research accredited healthcare facilities in advance and schedule consultations with specialists as required.

5. Dining and Entertainment

Dubai’s culinary scene is diverse and world-class, with a mix of traditional Middle Eastern flavors and international cuisine. After a long day at the exhibition, you can unwind at one of the city’s many high-end restaurants or enjoy an evening at Dubai’s beaches and nightlife spots.

6. Weather in October

Dubai in October enjoys warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. While it’s cooler than the peak summer months, it’s still advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated while exploring the city.

Conclusion

The International Exhibition of Medical Tourism in Dubai is not just an event; it’s a gateway to the future of global healthcare collaboration. By bringing together medical professionals, industry leaders, and government bodies from around the world, the exhibition will drive innovation and progress in the medical tourism sector. As a visitor, you’ll also have the chance to experience Dubai’s world-renowned hospitality, cutting-edge healthcare services, and vibrant culture, making it a trip worth remembering.

Source:  Travel and Tour World.  

SABRON TECH LTD: STRENGTHENING SECURITY IN TRAVEL TECHNOLOGY

Sabre Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security feature developed by Sabre Corporation, a global leader in travel technology. It protects user accounts and sensitive data by requiring multiple layers of identity verification before granting access to Sabre’s systems.

This two-step verification process ensures that even if a password is compromised, unauthorized access is prevented by requiring a second form of authentication. It is like adding a second lock to your home door. This is crucial in travel technology, where sensitive customer information and critical systems need protection.

MFA enhances security by combining different authentication methods, typically involving:

  • Something the user knows, such as a username and password.
  • Something the user has, like a mobile device that receives an authentication code or one-time password (OTP).

In line with global cybersecurity standards, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) promotes the use of MFA to comply with regulations like GDPR and PCI DSS, which safeguard sensitive passenger and payment information. IATA’s focus on robust cybersecurity supports Sabre’s MFA implementation, helping the travel industry maintain high data protection and operational security.

Don’t Get Left Behind – Secure Your Access Today!

As the cybersecurity landscape evolves, staying ahead of potential threats is crucial. Sabron Tech Ltd is committed to ensuring you’re fully prepared for this important security upgrade. Take Action Now:

Mark Your Calendar: Join our essential Sabron Tech Ltd Webinar on September 19, 2024, at 10:00 AM.

Get Informed: Learn everything you need to know about setting up and using Sabre MFA.

Ready to Secure Your Future?

Click here to register for the webinar

Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your security and protect your valuable data. Your account managers and Sabron Tech Social Media pages have additional details – reach out today!

Source: SABRON TECH- Kenya

Kenya Airways Revamps Its Digital Customer Experience with New High-Speed Booking Platform & Online Self Rebooking Service

Nairobi, 4th September 2024 – Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ) has launched a revamped online booking platform, designed to deliver a faster, more intuitive, and user-friendly experience for its customers.

Building upon the successful launch of a new website last year, these latest developments mark the second phase in the airline’s ongoing commitment to enhance the online customer experience. The new booking engine is estimated to reduce the customers’ flight booking time on the website significantly as a result of faster loading times for page sessions, thus bringing to an end session timeouts and repeated prompts.

“Technology is a key driver in ensuring exceptional customer service. This revamped booking platform delivers a significantly smoother online experience, streamlining everything from flight searches to booking, payment, and check-in for our digital-savvy customers” says Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer (CCCO) at Kenya Airways.

Concurrently, Kenya Airways has introduced a free online self-rebooking service for customers that will now allow KQ customers to rebook themselves seamlessly in case their flight is canceled or rescheduled without calling the contact center. This service gives guests the control to select the flight that is convenient for them based on their schedule. The self-rebooking service is available on this link: https://digital.kenya-airways.com/servicing/self-reaccommodation/retrieve

The new self-rebooking service will streamline the process of re-booking passengers during flight disruptions which was previously manual. By implementing the service KQ will significantly improve its ability to manage disruptions, ensuring that customers are quickly and efficiently re-booked on alternative flights with minimal inconvenience thus enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

“Our goal is to streamline all our processes to ensure efficiency and convenience at all touch points in the customer journey by integrating technologically advanced solutions that give our guests control and allow them to self-service and save time.,” Julius noted. This move demonstrates the airline’s pursuit of innovation to enhance its digital operations and provide a rewarding travel booking experience for every customer.

This is underscored by a series of prestigious awards and nominations including the World Travel Tech Awards 2024 nomination, the e-commerce Leader Travel & Tourism Award (2023), Gold Winner for Best Ticketing Platform (2023 & 2024), Silver Winner for Best Travel & Hospitality e-commerce Website (2024), and Gold Winner for Best in E commerce Travel & Tourism (2021). These accolades recognize the airline’s dedication to e-commerce excellence, solidifying its position as a leader in the travel industry.

Revamped Digital Experience – Press Release (1)Download

World Travel Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence and Looking Forward to the Africa Gala Ceremony

The 2024 program of the World Travel Awards (WTA) has already showcased an exciting year for the global travel and tourism industry. With a series of prestigious events held across different regions, the WTA continues to honour the best in the business, from airlines and hotels to destinations and tour operators. As the year progresses, anticipation builds for one of the most highly awaited ceremonies—the Africa Gala Ceremony, scheduled for October at the Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Diani Beach, Kenya.

This upcoming gala is set to showcase the finest achievements in Africa’s tourism sector, further solidifying the continent’s place on the world travel map.

Progress in 2024: A Year of Milestones

The year kicked off with great momentum for the World Travel Awards, as various regional ceremonies took place in key global destinations. Each event brought the industry’s top players together, spotlighting their achievements, innovation, and resilience in a time of gradual recovery from the global pandemic and other economic challenges.

• Middle East Gala Ceremony: Held in Dubai, this event highlighted the region’s luxury offerings and booming tourism development, particularly in hospitality and airlines.

• European Gala Ceremony: Europe, one of the most competitive travel markets, saw a celebration of its world-renowned cultural and historical attractions. Destinations like France, Italy, and Spain took top honours for their hospitality excellence and sustainable tourism initiatives.

• Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony: This region’s ceremony underscored the growing influence of Asia and Oceania in global tourism, with emerging markets and innovation in travel technology taking centre stage.

As these events unfolded, the travel industry continued to recover, with greater emphasis on sustainability, immersive travel experiences, and cultural authenticity

Anticipating the Africa Gala Ceremony in Kenya

Now, all attention turns toward the Africa Gala Ceremony, which will be held on October 18, 2024, at the stunning Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Diani Beach, Kenya. Diani Beach, located along Kenya’s southern coastline, is a haven for sun-seekers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. This location—known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and tropical ambiance—sets the stage for a memorable event that celebrates the very best of African travel and tourism.

Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort: The Perfect Host

Set along Diani’s world-famous white sands and turquoise waters, the Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort is an exquisite choice for the Africa Gala Ceremony. The luxury resort, known for its eco-friendly design and exceptional service, boasts a golf course, lush gardens, and an array of leisure activities that reflect the serene charm of Kenya’s coast. This makes it an ideal setting for recognizing the continent’s finest tourism brands and experiences.

The resort will host top industry leaders, VIP guests, and media from across Africa and beyond, offering a perfect blend of business and pleasure, where networking and celebration will take place against a backdrop of tropical splendour.

What to Expect at the Ceremony

The Africa Gala Ceremony promises to be an unforgettable evening, with over 100 categories of awards that recognize the excellence of tourism businesses across the continent. These awards will cover everything from Africa’s Leading Airline to Africa’s Leading Hotel, Leading Tourist Attraction, and Leading Safari Destination.

Some highlights we can expect:

1. Honouring Industry Leaders: The event will recognize leading travel companies, airlines, hotels, and tour operators who have demonstrated innovation, resilience, and dedication to delivering exceptional travel experiences. There will be special focus on African tourism brands that have not only recovered but thrived in the post-pandemic era.

2. Focus on Sustainability: Many of the nominees this year have placed sustainability at the forefront of their operations. From eco-friendly lodges in Kenya’s Maasai Mara to sustainable tourism practices in South Africa’s winelands, the awards will highlight initiatives that protect the environment and support local communities.

3. Spotlight on Africa’s Hidden Gems: While popular destinations like Cape Town, Marrakech, and Zanzibar are always in the limelight, this year’s awards will also bring attention to lesser-known African travel spots that offer unique experiences. Expect nominations from up-and-coming destinations like São Tomé and Príncipe, Malawi, and Rwanda.

4. Exclusive Performances and Cultural Showcases: The gala will feature Kenyan cultural performances, blending traditional African music and dance with modern entertainment. This will give international guests a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kenya and the wider region.

Why the Africa Gala Ceremony Matters

The Africa Gala Ceremony is more than just an award night; it is a celebration of Africa’s tourism resurgence. In recent years, Africa has emerged as one of the fastest-growing travel destinations globally, driven by its natural wonders, wildlife safaris, and rich cultural diversity. From luxury resorts in Mauritius to wildlife adventures in Botswana, Africa’s tourism landscape is more diverse than ever.

This year’s ceremony is expected to build on the growing trend of sustainable and immersive travel. As more travellers seek eco-conscious and community-driven experiences, African destinations have risen to the challenge by offering authentic and responsible tourism options. The event will amplify these efforts, bringing attention to Africa’s capacity to provide world-class travel while maintaining cultural integrity and environmental stewardship.

The 2024 Africa Gala Ceremony at Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Diani Beach, Kenya, will be a defining moment for Africa’s travel and tourism industry. As the World Travel Awards continues to recognize and reward excellence across the globe, this ceremony will honour the African sector’s brightest stars. Whether it’s a luxurious beach resort, an airline excelling in customer service, or a safari lodge promoting conservation, the event will spotlight the best of what Africa has to offer.

With its breathtaking setting and a lineup of deserving nominees, the Africa Gala Ceremony promises to be a night of celebration, collaboration, and inspiration for the future of African tourism.

Source:  Breaking Travel News  

New Premium Lounge Enhances Travel Experience at Moi International Airport.

Bosphorus Lounge Opens at Moi International Airport, Elevating Mombasa’s Travel Experience

Bryan Obala

Kata_kenya

On June 6, 2024, the tourism industry in Kenya witnessed a significant milestone with the official opening of the Bosphorus Lounge at Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa. The Kenya Association of Travel Agents was among the private sector representatives present at this landmark event.

Photo courtesy of Bosphorus Lounge: Turkish Ambassador H.E. Subutay Yuksei during the opening ceremony

A New Standard of Luxury

The newly inaugurated Bosphorus Lounge, covering an impressive 10,000 square feet and accommodating up to 150 guests, marks a substantial upgrade to MBA’s facilities. Its design, which beautifully incorporates elements of coastal culture, sets a new benchmark for premium travel experiences in Kenya.

Enhancing the Traveler’s Journey

This world-class lounge is set to transform the pre-flight experience for business class passengers and gold and platinum elite members of various airlines. It offers a range of amenities that rival those found in major international hubs:

  • High-speed Wi-Fi and charging stations
  • Dedicated workspaces
  • Massage lounge
  • Laundry and shower facilities
  • Gourmet dining featuring both Kenyan and international cuisines

Cemal Ulman, Director of Bosphorus Lounge, emphasized the importance of such facilities: “What travelers are looking for is such facilities. It’s not just about the flying but the whole experience right from the airport.”

A Boost for Mombasa’s Tourism

The launch event was graced by several dignitaries, including Turkish Ambassador to Kenya Subutay Yuksei as the chief guest, and Mr. Osman Ali, Mombasa County CEC, representing the Governor.

Ambassador Yuksei highlighted the lounge’s potential impact: “I hope that the opening of this lounge will pave the way for the restarting of direct flights from Turkey to Mombasa. Mombasa is a very important destination to many tourists and travelers, and as Turkey, we are keen on strengthening our bilateral ties with Kenya, especially in trade and tourism.”

Looking Ahead

The opening of the Bosphorus Lounge is more than just an addition to MBA’s facilities; it’s a statement of intent. By providing a premium lounge experience, Mombasa is positioning itself as a serious contender in the international travel market.

Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi called on the government to speed up the implementation of the open sky policy to help boost tourism at the Coast. “When you open the skies, you open the door of opportunities,” he stated.

As Kenya continues to enhance its tourism infrastructure, developments like the Bosphorus Lounge play a crucial role in elevating the country’s appeal as a world-class tourism destination. This new facility not only enhances the travel experience for passengers but also contributes significantly to Kenya’s reputation in the global tourism arena.

IATA and Outpayce help airlines accept account‑to‑account payments

Outpayce, a venture launched in 2023 to improve Amadeus’ travel paymens sector, has partnered with IATA to enable airlines to accept account-to-account (A2A) payments.

Recent regulations in many markets make it possible for merchants to accept payment from consumers using direct, account-to-account transfers. As airlines seek to best meet the needs of travelers and reduce the overall cost of payments, account-to-account payments are becoming very popular, and they represent a new option for travelers to pay for air tickets.

That’s why IATA and Outpayce are partnering so airlines can now accept payments made with IATA Pay through Outpayce’s Xchange Payments Platform (XPP).

IATA Pay is an alternative account-to-account form of payment for travelers to pay for air tickets purchased online by directly debiting their bank account. It leverages the new account-to-account rails and regulations developed by countries around the world such as India (UPI), the Netherlands (Ideal), Brazil (PIX) or Philippines (QR Ph). Currently available in over 30 countries, IATA Pay improves the speed and security of payments, while reducing payment acceptance costs.

When a traveler reaches checkout on an airline’s website the new account-to-account payment service allows them to select their bank or scan a QR code depending on the country. IATA uses the payment and bank details or the QR code’s approval to request a transfer from the passenger’s account and the funds are transferred using the banking rails. IATA settles the funds with the airline the following day.

Juan Antonio Rodriguez, Director Financial Settlement Operations, IATA said: “The trend towards account-to-account payments is gaining more momentum. It provides a seamless experience for passengers and provides an attractive option for airlines to lower the cost of payment acceptance. Through Outpayce, airlines using XPP can begin to accept IATA Pay while still benefiting from XPP’s powerful orchestration, analytics and reporting capabilities.”

Anna Isabel Bengzon, Chief Financial Officer, Philippine Airlines said: “We are pleased to now accept IATA Pay in the Philippines. It will provide our passengers a more convenient and secure way of paying via QR code using their digital wallets, which is highly prevalent in the country, or through their bank accounts. Outpayce’s XPP system helps us to intelligently accept a wide range of payment methods used by travelers across the international markets we serve. Moreover, we can access various payment methods and partners through XPP, with detailed analytics on the performance of payment flows and back-end reconciliation support.”

Jean-Christophe Lacour, SVP and Head of Product Management & Delivery, Outpayce added: “We’re committed to helping travel companies accept the widest possible range of payment methods through a single connection to XPP and IATA Pay represents an interesting new option for the industry. By making it easier for partners to connect to XPP using self-service APIs we intend to broaden this choice even further.”

IATA is one of the first partners to connect to Outpayce’s Xchange Payment Platform using its new self-service APIs, being piloted in 2024. The addition of self-service APIs helps to open XPP, making it easier for any payments or fintech company to connect its services, which increases choice for travel companies and further optimizes payment orchestration.

Source:  Outpayce