Somya Deep

Concorde returns! Soon to lead the world in supersonic flight once again

In a historic move that will reshape the future of aviation, the world’s most iconic supersonic airplane is poised to fly again by 2026, 50 years after the historic first flight that changed the history of aviation forever. When President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order on 6th June, 2025, quickly dubbed the ‘Concorde Bill’ he lifted a decades-long ban on supersonic passenger flight. Originally imposed due to concerns over sonic booms and environmental impact, it stifled supersonic innovation by preventing flights over land. The new regulation is expected to open the path to a new innovation in aviation, built on the legacy of the iconic Concorde which pioneered commercial supersonic passenger flight. The new Concorde will be 50% lighter, using next-gen composite materials, powered by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with an 80% reduction in emissions. The elegant exterior form will not change, but everything else about the airplane will be modern and ground-breaking. The interiors will feature a refined Japanese aesthetic designed by leading sustainable architects. Operating at 60,000 feet, the new Concorde will fly cleaner, greener, quieter, and faster than it did before. Backed by five decades of advances in aerospace engineering, materials science, supersonic travel it will be safer, more sustainable, and commercially viable. But it will be in every other sense – “The Concorde” that is still so beloved around the world. “Beyond its appeal as arguably the most majestic plane to ever take to the skies, Concorde is set to become the global benchmark for sonic boom suppression and sustainability,” said Patricia Bader-Johnston, Vice President and Chief Development Officer at Fly-Concorde Limited. Leading the comeback is Dr. Pano Kroko Churchill, CEO and Founder of …

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Meyyafushi Maldives opens Oct 2025

In an era where hospitality must blend indulgence with impact, Meyyafushi Maldives emerges as a refreshing new benchmark. Scheduled to open on 1st October 2025, this premium all-inclusive resort isn’t just another luxury retreat—it’s a holistic destination designed for meaningful connections, both with nature and oneself. Located in the untouched Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi promises an experience that resonates far beyond the ordinary. Where hospitality meets harmony As the Maldives continues to evolve as a global beacon of leisure and lifestyle hospitality, Meyyafushi Maldives is poised to make waves. Opening its doors on October 1, 2025, in the serene Lhaviyani Atoll, this five-star, premium all-inclusive boutique resort is more than just a luxurious escape—it’s a bold reimagination of responsible, immersive island living. Just 35 minutes from Velana International Airport, Meyyafushi stands apart with its promise of ‘connection within and beyond’—blending eco-conscious design, heartfelt service, and dynamic guest engagement. Developed under the BeKind Hospitality ethos, the resort’s philosophy rests on four pillars: kindness to the environment, community, visitors, and residents. Experience-centric design With 95 pool villas and suites—including a show-stopping Presidential Overwater Suite—Meyyafushi is designed to cater to everyone from families and honeymooners to VIPs and corporate groups. Guests can enjoy a 24-hour Premium All-Inclusive plan, offering access to 10 outlets, including five distinct restaurants, three stylish bars, a wine cellar, and a rooftop Sky Bar with a glass-bottom pool. Signature culinary offerings include: Bubble, the Maldives’ newest underwater dining spectacle, Sukun, a teppanyaki experience, and Raa, an overwater wine cellar curated for discerning palates. Wellness, play & purpose The semi-overwater Veyoge Spa promises holistic island healing, enhanced by yoga sessions on a deck overlooking the lagoon. For active travellers, the island hosts the Maldives’ first overwater padel tennis court, a recreation centre with …

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More Indian states to go for GSTC certification; training & policy support extended to Meghalaya, MP

CB Ramkumar, Vice Chair, GSTC, said, “After Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh, Meghalaya and Madhya Pradesh are also showing interest in sustainability and we are actively conducting training and awareness programs with local tourism boards and officials. We have offered to work with these states to operationalise their policies, provide training.”

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TAAI and Nexus DMS join forces to introduce NEXTAAI platform, to offer benefits for members

Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) joined hands with Nexus DMC, launching the innovative NEXTAAl platform. This collaborative effort aims to revolutionise the travel industry, offering unparalleled benefits and opportunities to the association’s members. The aim is to empower travel excellence through this strategic partnership.

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Oberoi Group to enter Saudi Arabia & Egypt, maintaining focus on India market: Arjun Oberoi

Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, Oberoi Group, said, “The group is set for expansion into new markets, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, while maintaining a strong focus on the domestic Indian market.” The group delivered one of its strongest performances in FY2025. The hotel chain aims to capitalise on the growing premium travel segment.

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HAI welcomes Delhi government’s move to scrap police licence/NOCs for hotels and restaurants

In a significant policy shift, VK Saxena, LG, Delhi has withdrawn the requirement for police-issued licences and NOCs for 7 trade categories, including hotels, motels, guest houses & eating houses. K B Kachru, President, HAI, hailed it as a landmark decision, stating it would boost Delhi’s appeal as a competitive & investment-friendly hospitality hub.

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Asego powers India’s adventure tourism with Motorbike Road Trip Protection

As Indian travellers delve deeper into experiential tourism, such as Motorbike rides and Road trips across the nation, Asego steps up with a bold, first-of-its-kind offering: Motorbike Road Trip Protect, designed to meet the rising demand for safer, worry-free riding adventures. From long-distance road trips to high-adrenaline trail biking, Asego’s new plan offers riders comprehensive protection, covering accidents, emergency evacuations, outpatient care, breakdown assistance, and even support for family during hospital stays. Speaking about the launch, Dev Karvat, Founder & CEO, Asego, shared, “Motorbike tourism is booming, but adventure should never come at the cost of safety. With Road Trip Protect, we are empowering riders and travel partners alike to embrace India’s incredible road journeys with confidence.” As adventure travel operators increasingly curate motorbike experiences for both domestic and global tourists, Asego’s latest solution positions itself as a timely game-changer, making India’s growing biking tours safer, more accessible, and fully protected.

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Delhi government scraps police approval for hotels and restaurants

The mandatory police approval to run hotels and restaurants in Delhi, will no longer be necessary, according to an official order issued by Government of NCT of Delhi. The requirement of Police Licence/Clearance (Eating House Licence) for operating hotels and restaurants has been removed as stated in the order. This decision is the outcome of continuous representations and sustained follow-up by HRANI on behalf of the hospitality industry of Delhi. HRANI welcomed and appreciated this pro-industry initiative which will significantly enhance Ease of Doing Business in the hospitality sector and create a more enabling environment for growth, investment, and employment in the capital.

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Saudia secures ‘Best Airline Staff Service’ at 2025 Skytrax Awards, climbs to 17th globally in best airlines ranking

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has been named ‘Best Airline Staff Service’ at the prestigious 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, held recently at the 56th edition of the Paris Air Show 2025 in the iconic Air and Space Museum. The airline also climbed three spots in the global Skytrax rankings, securing 17th place among the world’s best airlines following a comprehensive voting process involving millions of travellers worldwide. This recognition reflects the outstanding dedication and performance of Saudia’s team across all the touch points of the guest journey. From seamless ground services to onboard experiences rooted in authentic Saudi hospitality, Saudia staff have played a pivotal role in enhancing guest satisfaction, strengthening brand loyalty, and elevating service standards. H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General, Saudia Group, said, “This award reflects the dedication of our incredible frontline team and the trust of our guests. Rising from 82nd to 17th in the Skytrax World Airline Rankings is a proud milestone—but it is just the beginning. With bold investments and a clear vision, we are on a journey to become one of the world’s leading airlines.” Edward Plaisted, CEO, Skytrax, said, “We are pleased to present Saudia with the award for Best Airline Staff Service in the Middle East at the 2025 World Airline Awards. The airline’s cabin and ground staff maintain a service style that is both composed and welcoming, and this is delivered consistently by a multi-national team that brings a range of cultural strengths to the customer experience. It is this blend of professionalism and warmth that continues to leave a lasting impression on passengers.” Saudia has demonstrated remarkable progress in recent years, rising from 82nd place …

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