No need to travel abroad as Kenya launches new initiatives to attract tourists.

As part of this visionary endeavor, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), the country’s marketing agency, revealed that its target is boosting tourist arrivals from West Africa by promoting business and leisure travel.

Acting KTB Chief Executive Officer John Chirchir emphasized the significance of this “West Africa Roadshow” program during a meeting marking the beginning of a series of roadshows in Nigeria and Ghana.

Chirchir highlighted the integral role of the West African market in the strategy to attract tourists, with Nigeria (6%) and Ghana (48%) showing the biggest improvements among Kenya’s potential markets in tourist arrivals in 2023.

With ambitious aspirations, KTB and Kenya Airways are leading over 15 travel trade companies for in-market activations scheduled for Feb. 5-9 in various cities of Nigeria and Ghana, expecting to attract over 400 trade partners.

Chirchir also expressed optimism that the Kenyan traders would engage in business meetings and direct interactions with potential travelers from Lagos, Abuja, and Accra.

He noted that regular flights between African cities, ease in travel restrictions, and the Electronic Travel Authorization will make it easier for visitors to access Kenya.

Speaking passionately during the meeting, Consaga Khisa, chairperson of the West Africa Roadshow, underscored the rationale behind prioritising domestic travel and the importance of partnerships between KTB and the private sector in improving tourism arrivals in Kenya.

“The roadshows will provide an opportunity for the Kenyan trade to engage with about 400 West African travel agents and tour operators, showcase products and service offerings, and forge new partnerships to drive growth,” Khisa said.

Reports from Kenya’s Tourism Research Institute showed that arrivals from Africa accounted for 651,152 visitors, or 40.7 per cent, of total arrivals from January to October 2023. In the competitive landscape of African tourism, neighbouring countries like Rwanda, Benin, The Gambia, and Seychelles have eliminated all visa requirements for African travellers to attract visitors.

 Source: Business Insider.

IATA : Global Air Travel Demand Continued Its Bounce Back in 2023

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the recovery in air travel continued in December 2023 and total 2023 traffic edged even closer to matching pre-pandemic demand.

•    Total traffic in 2023 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 36.9% compared to 2022. Globally, full year 2023 traffic was at 94.1% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels. December 2023 total traffic rose 25.3% compared to December 2022 and reached 97.5% of the December 2019 level. Fourth quarter traffic was at 98.2% of 2019, reflecting the strong recovery towards the end of the year.

•    International traffic in 2023 climbed 41.6% versus 2022 and reached 88.6% of 2019 levels. December 2023 international traffic climbed 24.2% over December 2022, reaching 94.7% of the level in December 2019. Fourth quarter traffic was at 94.5% of 2019.

•    Domestic traffic for 2023 rose 30.4% compared to the prior year. 2023 domestic traffic was 3.9% above the full year 2019 level. December 2023 domestic traffic was up 27.0% over the year earlier period and was at 2.3% above December 2019 traffic. Fourth quarter traffic was 4.4% higher than the same quarter in 2019.

“The strong post-pandemic rebound continued in 2023. December traffic stood just 2.5% below 2019 levels, with a strong performance in quarter 4, teeing-up airlines for a return to normal growth patterns in 2024. The recovery in travel is good news. The restoration of connectivity is powering the global economy as people travel to do business, further their educations, take hard-earned vacations and much more. But to maximize the benefits of air travel in the post-pandemic world, governments need to take a strategic approach. That means providing cost-efficient infrastructure to meet demand, incentivizing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production to meet our net zero carbon emission goal by 2050, and adopting regulations that deliver a clear cost-benefit. Completing the recovery must not be an excuse for governments to forget the critical role of aviation to increasing the prosperity and well-being of people and businesses the world over,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

CARGO

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air freight markets showing that air cargo demand rebounded in 2023 with a particularly strong fourth quarter performance despite economic uncertainties. Full-year demand reached a level just slightly below 2022 and 2019.

Global full-year demand in 2023, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), was down 1.9% compared to 2022 (-2.2% for international operations). Compared to 2019, it was down 3.6% (-3.8 for international operations).

Capacity in 2023, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), was 11.3% above 2022 (+9.6% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID) levels, capacity was up 2.5% (0.0% for international operations).

December 2023 saw an exceptionally strong performance: global demand was 10.8% above 2022 levels (+11.5% for international operations). This was the strongest annual growth performance over the past two years. Global capacity was 13.6% above 2022 levels (+14.1% for international operations).

Some indicators to note include:

Global cross-border trade recorded growth for the third consecutive month in October, reversing its previous downward trend.

December inflation in both the United States and the EU as measured by the corresponding Consumer Price Indices (CPI) stayed below 3.5% year-on-year. China’s CPI, however, indicated deflation for the third consecutive month, raising concerns of an economic slowdown.

Both the manufacturing output and new export order Purchasing Managers Indexes (PMIs) – two leading indicators of global air cargo demand—continued to hover below the 50-mark in December, usual markers for contraction.

“Despite political and economic challenges, 2023 saw air cargo markets regain ground lost in 2022 after the extraordinary COVID peak in 2021. Although full year demand was shy of pre-COVID levels by 3.6%, the significant strengthening in the last quarter is a sign that markets are stabilizing towards more normal demand patterns. That puts the industry on very solid ground for success in 2024. But with continued, and in some cases intensifying, instability in geopolitics and economic forces, little should be taken for granted in the months ahead,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Source: Travel and tour world.

2024 Amadeus report: Global business travel booms with new trends & tech.

2024 marks a rebound in business travel, shaped by new trends and tech for enhanced value, as explored in the “Global Business Travel Trends 2024″ report.

This year is poised for a resurgence in corporate travel spending, reaching levels reminiscent of those in 2019. The landscape of business travel has evolved considerably over the past five years, with today’s business travelers demanding more value and benefits from each journey. Emerging technologies, particularly in the realm of Generative AI, are playing a crucial role in enhancing the overall travel experience.

The latest insights into these developments are highlighted in the “Global Business Travel Trends 2024” report, a collaborative effort by Globetrender and Cytric Easy from Amadeus. The report identifies seven key trends that are expected to redefine the corporate travel experience in 2024, including AI-powered personal assistants, executive outdoor retreats, and innovative strategies like “Objective Stacking.”

Revolution in Self-Managed Travel with AI Personal Assistants

The rise of Generative AI is transforming the way corporate travelers plan their trips, introducing AI Personal Assistants that offer round-the-clock support. These digital assistants can assist with everything from suggesting travel itineraries to helping travelers adhere to company policies, all through user-friendly, conversational interfaces.

The Emergence of Executive Outdoor Retreats

The concept of team-building activities is evolving into more extensive, nature-based retreats that offer a range of engaging and sometimes challenging experiences. These retreats aim to build team spirit and loyalty, taking participants out of their comfort zones with activities like rafting and wilderness survival.

Maximizing Business Travel Value with “Objective Stacking”

As companies face growing pressures to be financially and environmentally responsible, employees are expected to justify the necessity of their business trips. The concept of “Objective Stacking” involves planning trips to achieve multiple objectives, thereby increasing efficiency and value.

Blended Itineraries Take Precedence Over Strict Travel Policies

2024 sees a shift towards more flexible and personalized corporate travel policies, allowing for blended itineraries that combine business and leisure elements. This approach prioritizes the traveler’s experience and well-being.

Corporates Strive for Net Zero Emissions with Sustainable Travel Strategies

Following the COP28 agreement, companies are increasingly committing to sustainability goals. The travel industry is no exception, with strategies like “Objective Stacking” and flexible travel policies aiding in reducing carbon emissions.

Advancements in Digitized Expense Management

The shift towards digital expense management and virtual cards represents a significant change in corporate finance, simplifying processes and enhancing security and compliance.

Power Networking: Making the Most of Global Events

The focus is now on maximizing every opportunity at conferences and events, with a shift towards more purposeful networking and richer itineraries that extend beyond the main agenda.

Globetrender CEO Jenny Southan and Amadeus Cytric Solutions’ Deborah Mahoney emphasize the importance of discernment in business travel, balancing the need for in-person interactions with financial and environmental considerations. The future of corporate travel is marked by technological advancements and a return to basics, highlighting the significance of human connections and optimized travel experiences.

Source: Travel and tour world.

Kenya now welcomes open skies policy to push tourism.

The Moi International Airport (MIA) is the first airport in the country that the government has opened up to international flights in a bid to push up tourism.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Kipchumba Murkomen said in Mombasa that the airport is the first to be opened up as the government aims to fully implement an open skies policy for commercial flights.

Open skies are policies that governments use to give international airlines easy access to their airports. They are considered pro-consumer, pro-competition and pro-growth.

For years, tourism players especially at the coast have been pushing for these policies in order to attract more tourists.

Last Wednesday, MIA received a Fly Dubai airline flight which landed with 119 passengers; the first after adoption of the policy.

A Boeing 737 Max -800 touched down in Mombasa and was welcomed by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and Murkomen.

“We have tirelessly requested the government to consider an open sky policy as we sought to grow tourism numbers and boost our economy,” Nassir said.

He said that they are now confident that more international flights will land in Mombasa. Murkomen said that approvals were made to allow Fly Dubai to start direct flights to Mombasa after the airline made a very compelling case.

“They have connections to Eastern Europe market and have a global network that can increase numbers,” Murkomen noted.

Already, 10 international airlines are said to be eyeing the Mombasa route. Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) acting managing director Henry Ogoye said the event marks a significant milestone in the ever-changing aviation landscape in the country.

“The arrival of Fly Dubai to Moi International Airport not only enhances connectivity between our nations but also is a testament of the interest United Arab Emirates has in us, “he said.

Skal Kenya Coast President Janet Chamia said that the airlines arrival is very exciting.

“It marks a milestone for tourism,” Chamia said. Fly Dubai Senior Vice President Commercial Operations Sudhir Sreedharan said that the new service was his airlines twelfth in Africa where it now flies to 11 different nations.

Fly Dubai becomes the first national carrier to operate direct flights from Dubai to the coastal city in Kenya.

“Fly Dubai’s inaugural flight to Mombasa reflects our commitment to further strengthening our network in Africa and to providing our passengers with more options for convenient travel to one of East Africa’s most attractive destinations, “Sreedharan said.

Kenya Coast Tourist Association CEO Julius Owino and Patrick Kamanga, chairman of Kenya Association of Travel Agents Coast said that it’s been a long struggle to have Fly Dubai on the Mombasa route

“All its outbound flights have been filled by travel agents and already this shows it popularity,” Kamanga said.

Owino said that they are delighted with the prospects the new air service presents at a time when Kenyan tourism is on full path to recovery.

“We have seen huge numbers. This year looks very promising with air, sea and land arrivals looking good,” Owino said.

Denis Gwaro, General Manager of Plaza Beach Hotel in Mombasa said that it is their hope that apart from Fly Dubai, airlines like Turkish, Rwandair, Air Tanzania and a host of other low cost carriers from South Africa could soon be landing in Mombasa.

“For us, this is the best thing to ever have happened in the early part of the year. In fact, it presents better things to come not only for coastal tourism but the entire country as a whole, “Gwaro said

Fly Dubai has been steadying itself and has built a network of 123 destinations in 54 countries served by a young fleet of 84 Boeing 737 aircraft.

The airline has added Cairo, Krabi, Milan, Pattaya and Poznań to its network in 2023 and will start its daily services to Langkawi and Penang in Malaysia on 10 February 2024.

Fly Dubai’s network in Africa includes Addis Ababa, Alexandria, Asmara, Cairo, Dar es Salaam, Djibouti, Entebbe, Hargeisa, Juba, Mogadishu, Mombasa and Zanzibar.

 Flights to Moi International Airport will operate four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB). Emirates will codeshare on this route, offering passengers more options for connections through Dubai’s international aviation hub.

Source: Standard Media.

Nigeria: Airlines’ Trapped Funds – Pressure Mounts Despite U.S.$61 Million Release.

Lagos — There’s a mounting pressure on the federal government to make significant releases to clear the foreign airlines’ trapped funds amidst their threat to exit Nigeria.

This is despite the release of $61.4m by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) last week as part of efforts to clear outstanding liabilities and bolster the foreign exchange market.

While there’s no updated data on the foreign airlines’ funds trapped in Nigeria, our correspondent reports that the money was $793m as of December 2023.

According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Nigeria accounted for a substantial part of airlines’ trapped funds globally.

The foreign airlines said the funds keep mounting hence the $61.4m was too infinitesimal to cover anything.

A foreign airline representative who spoke with our correspondent in confidence said the trapped funds hinder the operations of their airlines.

“We all know what the margin is for airlines. If your funds are trapped to that level, how do you fund your operations? From loans or what? You can fund from other locations for how long? If every nation holds back funds, will there be international flights?

Foreign airlines mull cut of Nigerian operations.

Amidst the raging controversy over dollar settlement, airlines are said to be considering the option of reducing or suspending their operations outright.

It was learnt that despite the substantial resolution of diplomatic issues with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the non-payment of Emirates Airlines’ trapped funds is responsible for the delay in resumption of flights to Nigeria.

“The airline is yet to see sufficient commitment of the Nigerian government to clear Emirates trapped funds which is the major reason for the airline’s suspension of operations in the first place,” the source said.

It would be recalled that Emirates suspended all flights to Nigeria on September 1, 2022 and despite two different visits of President Bola Tinubu to the UAE and follow-up visits by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, the airline is yet to agree on resuming flights to Nigeria. “Yes, the trapped funds issue seems deadlocked,” said a source.

Similarly, other airlines are increasingly restless over their trapped funds, threatening to call it quits in Nigeria as the funds keep increasing.

“It is not a fair competition. My airline flies to Nigeria and our revenue is trapped. A Nigerian airline flies to our base country and they get their monies. Where is the fair competition?,” another foreign airline representative said. Aviation analyst, Group Capt. John Ojikutu, said aviation agencies would lose 80 per cent of their revenues if foreign airlines should leave in protest.

He said, “80% of our earnings in commercial aviation will be gone if the foreign airlines carry out their threats to withdraw their operations in Nigeria.

“Whoever knows Keyamo should tell him now. Whoever knows Tinubu should tell him now too to tell Keyamo to find out what happened to the forex earnings ($2.5bn) that the Nigeria Aviation service providers collected from the foreign airlines annually? This is not a joking matter like the palliatives and the subsidies.”

The General Secretary of the Aviation Roundtable and Safety Initiative (ART), Mr Olumide Ohunayo, decried a situation where foreign airlines pay for services in Nigeria in dollars, yet they cannot get dollars to repatriate their funds.

According to him, if the foreign airlines should leave as being threatened, Nigerian airlines cannot fill the vacuum.

More so he advised that Nigeria should take advantage of the reciprocity in the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) to begin to operate some of those routes operated by foreign airlines.

He said, “The truth is that our airlines cannot fill the vacuum, that’s almost impossible, as much as I would not advocate for us to increase their frequencies, I think it’s time for us to start using those frequencies that are ours by virtue of the reciprocity in the bilateral service agreement we have with different counties.

Source: All Africa.

Flydubai launches direct flights to Mombasa.

United Arab Emirates carrier Flydubai Wednesday started flights to Mombasa from Dubai in a move that looks set to raise competition against Kenya Airways (KQ) that also operates on the route.

The carrier has deployed a Boeing 737 type of aircraft on the route, flying four times per week to Moi International Airport from Terminal Three at the Dubai International Airport (DXB).

According to Flydubai online booking, fares from Dubai to Mombasa start from 846 United Arab Emirates Dirhams (Sh37,000) which matches KQ’s starting fares on economy class. Flydubai will be flying to Mombasa on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Mombasa International Airport Manager Abel Gogo said the entry of Flydubai into Mombasa is a good move as it will heighten competition for customers among carriers, a move that will result in a drop in passenger fare.

“The entry of Fly Dubai is good for Mombasa as a region. With this expansion, we are going to witness increased movement of businesspeople and tourists into Mombasa,” said Mr. Gogo Wednesday.

Flydubai is launching direct flights to Mombasa eight years after former Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia granted it the rights in 2016.

The airline has become the first national carrier with direct flights from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to the Kenyan coastal city.

The airline plans to partner with Emirates to codeshare the route to offer passengers more options for connections through Dubai’s international aviation hub.

With the launch of operations to Mombasa, Flydubai has now grown its network in Africa to 11 destinations in 10 countries, including Addis Ababa, Alexandria, Asmara, Dar es Salaam, Djibouti, Entebbe, Hargeisa, Juba, Mogadishu and Zanzibar.

“Dubai has seen steady growth in investment from Africa since Expo 2020 with more than 26,000 African companies registered with Dubai Chamber. Our direct flights to Mombasa and our growing operations in Africa will further support free flows of trade and tourism between the UAE and the East African markets,” said Flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith.

The entry of Flydubai into Mombasa comes barely a few months after Kenya granted Ethiopian Airlines more flights into Mombasa.

Kenya granted Ethiopian Airlines rights to fly twice directly into Mombasa every week last year in July keeping with the open skies policy, setting the stage for intensified competition with KQ.

The open skies policy requires easing access and rules of use of national airports for foreign airlines.

KQ had earlier argued that Kenya risks entering into one-sided deals with foreign carriers in the policy since there is no reciprocity guaranteed.

Source: The East African.

Navigating Kenya’s eTA Storm – A Critical Examination of the Visa-Free Transition.

By: Bryan Obala-KATA Media & Communications.

In a notable development, Kenya’s anticipated move toward a visa-free era has presented unforeseen challenges. President William Ruto’s announcement of a visa-free regime, initially slated to commence in 2024, has been succeeded by the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This recent development invites a closer examination to understand whether the eTA fundamentally aligns with the essence of a visa-free system or represents a distinct approach.

The Unveiling of eTA:

Contrary to the promise of unhindered travel, the recent implementation of the eTA system has stirred a myriad of reactions. Unveiled on January 5, 2024, the system mandates travelers, excluding East Africans, to apply for the eTA at a cost of at least $30, a stark departure from the notion of a visa-free experience. This unexpected financial requirement challenges the initial expectation of a seamless and cost-free entry process, prompting concerns and raising questions about the true nature of the eTA.

As we delve into the intricacies of this development, a critical analysis is essential to gauge its impact on travelers and the broader travel landscape.

Public Backlash and Social Media Outcry:

The fallout from the eTA launch has manifested on social media platforms. Disappointed travelers, expecting a seamless entry process, now voice concerns over the unexpected costs and additional documentation. Critics argue that the eTA introduction contradicts the essence of a visa-free system, placing financial burdens on global citizens.

“The eTA has removed that categorization, and all visitors are being treated equally. Now the countries that were visa-exempt are now being subjected to a cost,” notes Davis Nyagah, an immigration lawyer. This sentiment resonates with a broader sentiment expressed across various online platforms, emphasizing the need for a balanced and traveler-friendly system. Examining these public reactions provides valuable insights into the expectations of the global community regarding border-crossing policies.

Operational Hiccups and Industry Response:

Beyond the social media outcry, the eTA has faced operational challenges. Reports reveal that travelers must provide extensive documentation, including hotel bookings, flight itineraries, and bank statements, potentially hindering the intended smooth entry process. Michael Macharia, CEO of Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers, criticizes the implementation, stating, “The eTA is affecting the tourism industry. When the President said Kenya was visa-free, he never mentioned eTA.”

This industry perspective sheds light on the practical implications of the eTA on businesses and reinforces the need for a cohesive and well-communicated entry process that aligns with the overarching goal of promoting tourism in Kenya.

Government’s Defense and Statistics:

In defense of the eTA, Julius Bitok, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Immigration, emphasizes its efficiency and revenue benefits. The government reports collecting a staggering one million dollars (Ksh159 million) from around 25,000 applications within the first week. “The eTA was introduced so that it can process many people. Right now, we do not have any backlog,” explains Mr. Bitok. While the government cites the efficiency of the eTA in managing a high volume of applications, questions arise about the balance between streamlining processes and ensuring a traveler-friendly experience. As we navigate through these contrasting perspectives, it becomes evident that the eTA’s implementation demands a delicate equilibrium to meet both administrative goals and the expectations of global citizens.

Industry Concerns and Potential Repercussions:

Industry leaders express concerns over the eTA’s impact on existing bilateral agreements and the potential for retaliatory measures from affected countries. Michael Macharia questions the disregard for these agreements and suggests that countries might reciprocate with their own fees for Kenyan travelers. “In the old regime, we had about 50 bilateral agreements with other countries for no visa – South Africa, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Singapore, and Malaysia, among others. So, what happens to them?” queries Mr. Macharia.

Reflecting on Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA)’s December 2023 press release, it becomes apparent that the current eTA implementation diverges from the envisioned smooth transition. Calls for clear guidelines and a traveler-friendly process seem more pertinent considering the operational challenges faced.This independent examination calls for transparent communication, a reconsideration of operational aspects, and an inclusive approach to address the concerns voiced by both the public and industry stakeholders.

In concluding this examination, the eTA’s introduction brings to light a myriad of complexities. As the government and concerned state departments work towards realizing the goals of the eTA, collaboration with relevant associations, as the Kenya Association of Travel Agents, becomes paramount. A balanced and level playing field for travelers and the industry alike should be the collective aim. Transparent communication, an inclusive approach, and a reconsideration of operational aspects will contribute to a more seamless and traveler-friendly experience.

#eTAdebate #KenyaTravel #VisaFreeKenya #TravelObservations #IndustryPerspectives

CKCEDOK and LOTPLAirlines Unveil Direct Flights to Mombasa, Kenya: A New Gateway to Africa’s Wonders.

Traveling to the heart of Africa has become easier and more convenient than ever before with CKCEDOK’s announcement of a new direct flight service to Mombasa, Kenya.

This new service, operated by LOTPLAirlines, opens up a world of possibilities for those seeking to immerse themselves in Kenya’s diverse attractions, from its sprawling wildlife reserves to its scenic coastal landscapes.

A New Gateway to Kenya’s Wonders

The new route is a direct link to Kenya’s bountiful offerings. It allows travelers to embark on thrilling safari adventures, exploring the country’s rich wildlife, and enjoy its coastal treasures, including picturesque beaches.

The opportunity to experience the diverse and vibrant Kenyan culture, its people, food, and history, adds to the allure of this new service.

Flights to Mombasa: The Details

The flights to Mombasa are scheduled every Wednesday, ensuring a regular and reliable service for both tourists and regular travelers alike. The service will be operated by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a state-of-the-art aircraft renowned for its efficiency and passenger comfort.

The Dreamliner is known for its spacious cabins, larger windows, and smoother ride, thereby ensuring a relaxing journey to the vibrant city of Mombasa.

Competitive Pricing and Bundled Deals

CKCEDOK is offering bundled flight and hotel deals for direct flights to Mombasa, making the journey more affordable. Prices for one-way flights start at $759 and round trip flights start at $1,229.

Additional terms apply, catering to the needs of various travelers, from the budget-conscious to those seeking a more luxurious travel experience. This move demonstrates CKCEDOK’s commitment to offering competitive pricing while ensuring a high-quality travel experience.

In conclusion, the new direct flight service to Mombasa by CKCEDOK and LOTPLAirlines offers an exciting new opportunity for travelers to explore the diverse attractions of Kenya. With its competitive pricing and the comfort of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, this service promises a unique travel experience, opening up a new gateway to Kenya’s wonders.

Source: bnn breaking

Kenya’s Passport 6th Strongest In Africa.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 11 – Kenyan passport holders can travel to 76 countries globally visa-free, a new data shows, indicating its growing prominence worldwide.

The latest data compiled by the Henley Passport Index also ranks the country’s passport at number 67 globally, together with Malawi.

The Seychelles passport is the most powerful on the continent at number 26, followed by Mauritius (30), South Africa (53), Namibia, and Lesotho at 65, as well as Eswatini (66).

The strongest passports include those of France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain, whose citizens can travel to 194 countries globally without the need to apply for visas.

Source: Capital Fm

Sabre and IAG expand partnership with multi-year distribution agreement including NDC content.

Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading software and technology provider to the global travel industry, has entered into a multi-year distribution agreement with International Airlines Group (IAG) that will expand their existing partnership and further promote modern travel retailing practices.

The agreement will allow Sabre-connected travel buyers and agencies to sell traditional EDIFACT content as well as having competitive access to NDC offers from British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling – including Additional Price Points and ancillaries – through the Sabre travel marketplace globally. This enhanced content will provide travel agencies with a wider range of options to compare and shop for, while travelers will benefit from an improved experience with more choice and transparency. Sabre and IAG’s airlines are working closely together and will communicate as NDC content is rolled out to Sabre-connected travel agencies on a carrier-by-carrier basis.

The agreement between Sabre and IAG underscores the industry’s shift towards modern travel retailing, where airlines can differentiate their offerings and provide more personalized experiences to travelers. Both Sabre and IAG are committed to advancing the NDC standard as a key component in the industry’s evolution towards modern airline retailing enabled by offers and orders.

Colm Lacy, British Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are on a journey to A Better BA and we continue to invest across the business as part of that commitment. Not only are we improving the experience of those customers who fly with us, but also the way we work with our valued travel agent and travel buyer partners. We understand how valuable retailing is to them, and IAG’s partnership with Sabre allows us to make a wide range of attractable offers available even further across the globe.”

This agreement is another milestone in the IAG strategy to embrace digital retailing practices and offer more opportunities for customers to access NDC content. The partnership with IAG demonstrates Sabre’s continued commitment to driving value and serving the diverse interests of the global travel ecosystem.

“We are very excited about what’s ahead. The travel industry is entering a new era of personalized retailing that will bring better experiences for travelers and new revenue opportunities for airlines and travel agencies,” said Roshan Mendis, Chief Commercial Officer, Sabre Travel Solutions. “It’s fantastic to work with a strong, forward-thinking partner like IAG that is just as committed as we are to driving the industry forward.”

Source: Sabre.