Commenting on the current travel situation in India, Rikant Pittie, Chief Executive Officer, EaseMyTrip, said, “Due to recent geopolitical tensions, the platform saw a 22% rise in cancellations for Turkiye and 30% for Azerbaijan.” Travellers had switched to Georgia, Serbia, Greece, Thailand, and Vietnam, he added.

IndiGo announces the commencement of daily direct flight connecting Mumbai to its 41st international destination, Fujairah. The only emirate situated along the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, Fujairah is renowned for its pristine beaches, majestic mountain landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This expansion is part of IndiGo’s strategic global growth plan and further strengthens its presence in the Middle East. This marks IndiGo’s fifth destination with direct connectivity in the UAE after Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. The newly launched direct flight from Fujairah to Mumbai and followed by Kannur, not only caters to the growing demand for travel from both business and leisure travellers but also comes at a favourable time, as Fujairah strengthens its position on the global adventure tourism map. In a recent development, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah are planning to launch UAE’s first cross-emirate adventure trial. This opens up new experiences for Indian travellers seeking immersive outdoor getaways. Meanwhile, the strategically planned flight timings carefully coordinated with bus arrival and departure timings are designed to ensure a seamless, hassle-free travel experience for those exploring the UAE, from the cultural charm of Sharjah to the iconic skyline of Dubai and the natural beauty of Fujairah. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, said: “We are pleased to commence daily direct operations between Mumbai as well as Kannur to Fujairah, UAE’s hidden gem known for its natural beauty and growing economic significance. IndiGo already flies to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and now also to Fujairah in the UAE. As our 41st international destination and fifth in the UAE, Fujairah offers immense potential for trade, tourism, & business. With these …

Sunil Kumar, President, TAAI, said, “We are planning to do our convention in the Q3 or Q4 of this year.” Speaking about the travel and tourism situation of Jammu and Kashmir, he noted that they invested so much in promoting the UT in Kashmir during 2018, which gave it a premier tourism status. He regretted that the current developments have diluted the returns that came in as a result of years of effort.

IndiGo has launched new direct flight services linking Abu Dhabi with two of India’s vibrant cultural cities—Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar. This exciting addition aims to improve international connectivity, offering Indian travellers more options for affordable and convenient global travel. Starting from 12 June, flights between Bhubaneswar and Abu Dhabi will operate three times a week, while the Visakhapatnam-Abu Dhabi route will run four times a week, beginning 13 June.

Hahnair launches a new brand to encompass its new suite of retailing solutions based on NDC (New Distribution Capability). Under the umbrella Distriply by Hahnair, the company will introduce a range of products that will enable airlines and travel agencies to tap into new distribution channels, perfectly complementing the existing Hahnair GDS-based solutions.

The government has decided to lift the Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) for several airports across north and north-western India that had been temporarily closed for civilian flights till May 15. Airport Authority of India revoked the suspension, which had led to numerous flight cancellations. The decision was taken post India-Pakistan ceasefire.

Hyatt has signed a management agreement with Krivish Hospitality for the development of Grand Hyatt Indore, which is set to open in 2029. This 11.5-acre luxury property is poised to redefine hospitality standards in Indore, a rapidly growing economic hub of Madhya Pradesh. The hotel will feature 250 opulent rooms and suites catering to both business and leisure travellers.

FHRAI has signed an MoU with the CUTS Institute for Regulation & Competition (CIRC) to launch a legal and compliance course tailored for the hospitality industry. K Shyama Raju, President, FHRAI, said, “Understanding the law is no longer optional; it’s a necessity.” The 8-week course aims to equip hoteliers, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals with practical knowledge to tackle regulatory challenges.

Deepak Narula, MD, GRNconnect, said the company will expand its offerings following key discussions at ATM. “There is a demand for more products,” he noted. GRNconnect also aims to adopt new technologies based on emerging trends. “Artificial intelligence is becoming visible, and it’s time to incorporate the same into our system,” he added, highlighting the company’s strategic tech focus.

Outlining his vision to expand the association’s global footprint by forging partnerships with international tourism boards and organisations, Ravi Gosain, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), said, “We want IATO to grow into a truly international organisation. Whenever anyone is looking to do business with India, they should consider our members as their first choice.”