The Project Sunrise, touted as the groundbreaking first step in non-stop flights between Australia and London and New York, has reached its first production milestone. Qantas is set to take a major step in transforming long-haul travel with its Sunrise Project. The recently released first images of the A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft, developed with Airbus, mark the completion of its initial production phase — bringing non-stop flights between Australia, London, and New York closer to reality. The Sunrise Project takes its name from the historic “Double Sunrise” endurance flights operated during the Second World War. The aircraft will be moved to a new hangar this week, where engines and flight test instruments will be installed ahead of a comprehensive test flight programme in 2026. These A350-1000ULRs have been specially configured for the world’s longest commercial flights, connecting Australia’s east coast non-stop with London and New York — a new milestone in air travel. The aircraft features an additional 20,000-litre rear centre fuel tank with advanced systems, making the non-stop 22-hour flight possible. Every element has been specifically designed with passenger comfort and safety in mind — a non-negotiable for long-haul journeys. The project will also cut up to four hours from travel time on one of the longest air routes in operation. Qantas Group Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Hudson said the progress brings Project Sunrise one step closer to reality. “Given Australia’s position in the world, Qantas has a long history of breaking aviation barriers. Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance, it will fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world,” said Ms Hudson. She added, “These flights will cut up to four hours …

Anantara brings its signature experience-driven luxury to Argentina with a landmark resort in the heart of Patagonia — combining sustainable design with destination-inspired hospitality. Bangkok, Thailand – 6 November 2025: Minor Hotels, a global hotel owner, operator, and investor, has announced the upcoming development of Anantara Ushuaia Patagonia Resort in Ushuaia, Argentina. Scheduled to open in early 2026, the property will occupy a spectacular location at the world’s southernmost city, where the Andes Mountains descend toward the icy expanse of the Beagle Channel. Nestled within Ushuaia’s Costa Susana master plan, in close proximity to Tierra del Fuego National Park, the new-build waterfront resort will offer 60 luxurious guest rooms and suites, an extensive spa and wellness facility at sea level, signature dining concepts and meeting facilities. True to Anantara’s experiential DNA, the property will immerse guests in transformative and locally anchored experiences – while remaining deeply committed to environmental preservation. The Costa Susana development has been selected to participate in the World Architecture Festival’s Landscape and Environment category – Argentina’s first such nomination – and proudly stands as the first carbon-neutral real estate development in the country. The hotel management agreement is with Fideicomiso Urbanización Monte Susana, an Argentinean development group consisting of two partners with over 20 years of experience in real estate development, specialised in the creation of residential projects in the Ushuaia and the Tierra del Fuego region. “Ushuaia, often called the ‘End of the World,’ is the gateway to Antarctica and a breathtaking destination in its own right,” said Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International. “Bringing Anantara to South America is a key priority for the Group, and we are …

A new study, India Consumer Profile 2024, by Experience Kissimmee has revealed that Indian travellers are showing strong and growing interest in Central Florida, highlighting the destination’s increasing appeal among one of the world’s fastest-expanding outbound travel markets. According to the research, the average Indian visitor to the Orlando–Kissimmee–Sanford area in 2024 was aged between 35 and 39 and most often travelled solo (70%) or with family and friends (18.6%). Families with young children represented nearly a third of the market, with trips typically planned three months in advance. Sightseeing (93%), shopping (82%), and theme parks (56%) ranked as the most popular activities, with almost a quarter of visitors also extending their itineraries to include Miami. On average, Indian travellers stayed in Florida for 31 nights, spending about $4,339 per trip and $5,838 per travel party. Digital influence emerged as a major factor in travel planning, with YouTube (95%), Instagram (92%), and Facebook (89%) driving inspiration through user-generated content and peer recommendations. In terms of accommodation, 85% of travellers chose hotels or motels, while 8% preferred vacation homes. More than half rented cars during their stay, and nearly a third took domestic flights within the U.S. The study also revealed that the average household income of Indian visitors was $49,387, with over half earning above $60,000 annually. Florida ranked as the third most desired U.S. state among Indian travellers, with peak interest recorded in January and May. Experience Kissimmee officials said the findings reinforce Central Florida’s reputation as a destination that offers “connection, comfort, and memorable adventures,” aligning perfectly with the preferences of Indian travellers seeking immersive, family-oriented, and experience-driven holidays.