IndiGo announced that subject to Regulatory and Shareholder approvals, IndiGo’s Board of Directors appoints Michael Whitaker as an Independent Director. Whitaker served most recently as Administrator of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the U.S. agency in charge of air safety, efficiency, and the operation of the national air traffic system in the U.S.A. He resigned from the FAA in January of this year. Whitaker held numerous roles in his 30-year aviation career. Rahul Bhatia, Managing Director, IndiGo, said, “Mike’s deep and varied industry and government experience will contribute significantly to having an effective and diverse Board. His focus on efficiency, operations, air safety as head of the FAA will reinforce IndiGo’s longstanding focus on operating at the highest levels. Also, his extensive experience in International Governmental Affairs will be hugely instrumental as IndiGo continues its global expansion.” “I am deeply honoured to have the privilege of joining the Board of the world’s fastest growing airline on its way to become a global aviation giant,” Michael Whitaker said. “India is one of the world’s great travel hubs with unlimited growth potential. I look forward to working with the Board to continue the growth of this world-leading Indian company.”  

Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) expressed its deepest sorrow and strongest condemnation of the recent heinous attack on innocent tourists in Kashmir. This despicable act, targeting those who came in the spirit of discovery and peace, is an attack not only on the lives of individuals but on the very fabric of the nation’s hospitality and harmony. TAAI mourns the tragic loss of lives and extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. An act of violence against tourists is a direct strike at the soul of Tourism’s spirit and an attempt to instil fear and disrupt the positive narrative of Jammu & Kashmir. Such cowardly acts aim to derail the region’s tourism-driven resurgence, but TAAI stands united in saying, “We will not let terror define our future.” TAAI reaffirms solidarity with the people of Jammu & Kashmir. They have promoted this breathtaking destination for decades and will continue to do so with unwavering determination. The association urges members, industry partners, and the travelling public to continue supporting Kashmir’s tourism sector and its resilient community, whose livelihood depends greatly on this vital industry. While incidents like these may cause short-term disruptions, TAAI said, “We are confident that with proactive government support, robust security measures, and the collective resolve of all stakeholders, tourism in Jammu & Kashmir will recover and thrive once again.” “We call upon the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure enhanced safety and protection for all tourists. The spirit of Indian tourism is unbreakable, and together, we will ensure it emerges stronger than ever.”

Addressing global geopolitical tensions and climate change, PATA leadership predicted a future of regional travel dominance. With rising airfare costs and increasing environmental awareness, long-haul tourism may become less viable. Asia’s intra-regional strength, where 80 per cent of arrivals come from neighbouring countries, positions it well for this shift. “We must stop assuming tourism equals Western arrivals,” said Peter Semone, Chair, PATA. “Our biggest spenders may already be next door.”

With Saudi Arabia’s growing interest in the Asia-Pacific market, PATA signalled readiness to support the kingdom with market intelligence and regional insights. While acknowledging Saudi’s robust in-house expertise, PATA highlighted its value as a connector offering knowledge from decades of Asia-focused tourism development. The collaboration could involve joint projects, knowledge sharing, and practical guidance to help Saudi adapt its tourism products for Asian travellers.

Peter Semone, Chair, PATA, used the platform of the PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul to call for a radical industry reset. Destination management must now take priority over destination marketing, he suggested. Noting decades of marketing-first approaches, he emphasised the risks of unchecked tourism growth. “If we do not manage tourism better, we risk eroding the very places we promote,” he added, pointing to global pressures on ecosystems and communities.

Celebrating 30 years of excellence, Kuoni Tumlare India marks a new chapter with the relocation to a state-of-the-art office in Connaught Place, New Delhi. Strengthening our commitment to collaborate with outbound travel agents, focusing on leisure and MICE groups in a rapidly expanding global outbound tourism market. Our esteemed global DMC, Kuoni Tumlare, boasts dedicated destination experts in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Led by Gaurav Mathur, our team commenced the office inauguration with a traditional Indian Puja Day, followed by an engaging open house party, embracing our loyal clients and valued suppliers. Gratitude fills our hearts for the unwavering support received from our clients and local staff throughout these remarkable 30 years. Upholding our core objectives, we aim to continue sharing our expertise and knowledge with the Indian outbound travel industry for years to come.

2025 is a special year for Singapore as they celebrate SG60, making it the perfect time to visit and experience the city. To make exploring Singapore even more seamless and enjoyable, SimplyGo shared new updates on the Singapore Tourist Pass, the go-to public transportation card for all visitors. New online sales channels Visitors can now conveniently purchase the Singapore Tourist Pass in advance through international online travel platforms such as Expedia, Pelago, Traveloka and Trip.com as well as various local online travel platforms. Using the QR code provided upon purchase, they can easily redeem their pass at SimplyGo Ticket Offices or Singapore Tourist Pass kiosks. This new option complements the more than 50 physical retail points and self-help kiosks across Singapore. Key locations include Changi Airport, SimplyGo Ticket Offices at selected MRT stations and popular tourist hotspots such as Bugis, Chinatown, Harbourfront and Orchard Road. New Sentosa Express Bundle The Singapore Tourist Pass + Sentosa Express Bundle is now available at just S$31. This bundle provides three days of unlimited public transport rides along with one standard admission to the Sentosa Express, allowing visitors to effortlessly explore the island and enjoy its vibrant attractions: Price: S$31 Inclusions: three days of unlimited bus and train rides + 1 Sentosa Express admission for 1 person Availability: Changi Airport MRT Station Terminal 2 Ticketing Service Centre and Harbourfront MRT Station Ticket Office Stay tuned for more bundles coming your way in 2025! NEW! More Day Pass Type Options In addition to the existing 1-, 2- and 3-day passes, the Singapore Tourist Pass has expanded its offerings to include 4- and 5-day passes, providing greater flexibility for visitors planning longer stays in Singapore. Explore …

Peter Semone, Chair, PATA, announced that the 2026 PATA Annual Summit will be held in Gyeongju and Andong, South Korea, for the first time across two cities. This special edition marks PATA’s 75th anniversary, with a focus on heritage, innovation, and resilience. The event will unveil the new PATA Index, designed to measure the visible and invisible impacts of tourism, moving beyond outdated metrics like arrivals and spend.

FHRAI will host its 55th Annual Convention in Bengaluru from 12–14 September 2025, bringing together over 1,200 hospitality leaders. FHRAI President K. Syama Raju said, “The Convention is an opportunity to build a roadmap for resilient, inclusive and eco-conscious hospitality growth in India,” highlighting Bengaluru’s global appeal and focus on innovation.

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has launched a new vision and mission to redefine its role in shaping the region’s tourism landscape. The refreshed vision, “A meaningful Pacific Asia tourism economy”, emphasises purpose-driven growth. PATA’s mission focuses on sharing knowledge, enabling networking and protecting tourism assets through innovation, collaboration and adaptability. With this strategic shift, PATA aims to equip the travel trade with tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving global environment, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, resilience and industry unity across Asia and the Pacific.