Dave

From toy guns to blow torches: passengers risk delays as Manchester Airport confiscates hundreds of items of hand luggage a day

/in /by

Manchester Airport is urging passengers to familiarise themselves with hand luggage rules following a notable surge in confiscated items.

From scissors to blow torches, the airport security team seized nearly 400 items in just one morning, shedding light on the importance of adhering to regulations.

Among the confiscated items, cigarette lighters topped the list, with 284 lighters surrendered during the morning period. Passengers are reminded that only one lighter per person is permitted, provided it fits into a clear resealable plastic bag and contains less than 100ml of liquid.

Toy gun: one of eight confiscated one morning

Additionally, sharp objects like scissors, multi-tools, corkscrews, and even sets of darts were confiscated due to violations of UK aviation security regulations which prohibit the inclusion of sharp items or blades exceeding 6cm (2.3in) in hand luggage.

The airport security team also intercepted eight toy guns, highlighting the strict regulations against items resembling firearms or those that could be mistaken for such. Furthermore, several liquid items exceeding 100ml were confiscated, including cans of deodorant, large soft drink bottles, and even a bottle of vodka.

Sharp practice: some of the haul of scissors

Graham Matthews, Head of Terminal Security for Terminal 3 at Manchester Airport, emphasised the significance of compliance with regulations to ensure a smooth and efficient security process. Matthews stated,

Each time we have to pull a bag aside for a manual search, it takes several minutes and can slow down the whole security process for everyone.

To expedite security checks and minimise delays, Manchester Airport is in the process of installing new state-of-the-art CT scanners. These scanners will allow passengers to leave large electrical items in their bags and bring full-size containers of liquid through security. However, until the upgrade is complete across the airport, passengers are advised to adhere to existing regulations.

List of items confiscated in one morning:

  • 284 cigarette lighters
  • 22 pairs of scissors
  • 12 cans of deodorant
  • 8 toy guns
  • 8 bullet casings
  • 5 multi-tools
  • 5 blades
  • 4 corkscrews
  • 2 hacksaws
  • 2 sets of darts
  • 2 large drinks bottles
  • 2 blow torches
  • 1 bottle of shower gel
  • 1 hammer
  • 1 one-litre bottle of vodka

Matthews urged travellers to pack liquids in clear plastic containers of 100ml or less, placed in a clear resealable bag.

Additionally, removing large electrical items from bags for separate screening can facilitate a smoother security process, ensuring passengers can proceed to their departure gates promptly.

Torch transgression: passengers were dealt a “blow” when their blow torches were confiscated

As Manchester Airport continues its efforts to enhance security measures, passengers are reminded to acquaint themselves with hand luggage regulations to avoid disruptions and ensure a hassle-free travel experience.

For information on flights to or from Manchester Airport business travellers are encouraged to contact their Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

American Airlines, Make-A-Wish and Disney unite to grant children’s wishes on special Wish Flight

/in /by

In honour of World Wish Month, American Airlines, Make-A-Wish and Disney are coming together to grant the wishes of children facing critical illnesses.

On 17 April, 28 wish families will embark on an extraordinary journey aboard a chartered flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Orlando, Florida, to experience the magic of Walt Disney World Resort®.

The journey begins with a heartwarming send-off celebration at American’s headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas, where wish families were greeted with cheers, refreshments and photo opportunities.

Amidst the excitement, the children learn about the special Wish Flight that awaits them.

Wish Flight: American will direct all AAdvantage® miles donated to Miles for Global Health and Well-Being during the month of April to Make-A-Wish, up to 50 million miles.

The Wish Flight promises to be an unforgettable experience, starting with a pre-flight celebration at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Wish families will enjoy a breakfast bar and receive a special send-off from the WishMakers who make dreams come true. The inflight experience will be filled with interactive games, a special snack menu, surprise entertainment and magical moments courtesy of American Airlines.

Upon landing at Orlando International Airport, families will be welcomed by enthusiastic WishMakers cheering their arrival. The festivities continue with a warm reception at Give Kids The World Village, a whimsical nonprofit resort where families will spend six days and five nights as part of their wish trip.

All the children’s wishes revolve around visiting Walt Disney World Resort®, and since 1980, Make-A-Wish, in partnership with Disney, has granted over 155,000 life-changing wishes like these.

Leslie Motter, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, expressed gratitude for the long-standing support of American Airlines and Disney, highlighting their role in bringing hope, strength, and joy to children battling critical illnesses and their families:

As long-time WishMakers, American Airlines and Disney know what it takes to deliver hope, strength and joy to children with critical illnesses and their families. In the case of Wish Flight, they will provide wish families with an experience unlike any other that is sure to create unforgettable memories before they even step foot off the plane to begin their wish trips.

Make-A-Wish relies heavily on donations, particularly airline miles, to fulfil travel wishes for children facing critical illnesses. American Airlines, their longest-standing airline partner, generously donated the chartered aircraft and continues to donate millions of AAdvantage® miles annually to make wish travel possible. During April, American will direct all AAdvantage® miles donated to Miles for Global Health and Well-Being to Make-A-Wish, up to 50 million miles.

Caroline Clayton, Vice President of Communications and Marketing at American Airlines, emphasised the company’s commitment to uplifting communities by making wishes come true:

At American, we’re in the business of connecting people and creating experiences through the joy of travel. We hope these kids and their families can feel the support, strength and excitement of our team members as they embark on this heartwarming journey with us. As a partner of Make-A-Wish for more than 35 years, we are grateful to help uplift our community by helping to make wishes come true for those who need it most.

Wishes wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and generosity of WishMakers. Make-A-Wish chapters worldwide are inviting communities to join the movement and become WishMakers. Whether through individual donations or corporate partnerships, everyone has the power to make wishes come true.

Make-A-Wish and American have invited anyone interested in making a difference in the lives of wish kids to visit wishmaker.org and learn how to become a WishMaker.

For further information about American Airlines flights, please reach out to your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

ITA Airways boosts fleet with four new Airbus aircraft

/in /by

ITA Airways, hot on the heels of revealing its financial statements for 2023, is forging ahead with its expansion plans by adding four state-of-the-art Airbus aircraft to its fleet in just one week.

This rapid expansion brings the total number of NewGen aircraft in ITA Airways’ fleet to 44 out of a total of 87.

Efficiently integrating the new aircraft into service during the last week of March was a testament to the company’s dedication and the collaborative efforts of ITA Airways personnel, ENAC and other regulatory bodies involved in the authorisation processes.

The aircraft were swiftly made available for operations within a day of being registered in the Company’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

The four new additions to the fleet include an A330-900 owned by ITA Airways, alongside an A321neo, an A320neo, and an A220-100, all leased by the company.

Francesco Presicce, Accountable Manager and Chief Technology Officer of ITA Airways, expressed his satisfaction with the achievement, stating,

Investment in our fleet, which has grown by more than 60% since our inception, lies at the heart of our strategy. Today, announcing the entry into service of four new-generation Airbus aircraft in just one week is highly gratifying for us.

Presicce highlighted the company’s commitment to efficient and safe operations, emphasizing the success of their Entry Into Service procedures. He revealed ambitious goals for 2024, aiming to introduce 26 new aircraft into the fleet, reaching a total of 96 by year-end, with 67% belonging to the new generation.

ITA Airways is not only focused on expanding its fleet but also on fitting out its next-generation aircraft with cutting-edge technology and onboard Wi-Fi to enhance efficiency and service quality while reducing environmental impact.

The airline aims to make significant strides towards environmental sustainability, with a target for approximately 90% of its fleet to be environmentally friendly by the end of its 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.

The expansion of the new generation fleet underscores ITA Airways’ commitment to growth while aligning with its sustainability objectives for the benefit of the environment and the community. 

For further information on ITA Airways’ fleet expansion and sustainability initiatives, business travellers are encouraged to contact their Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Accor unveils ambitious plans for further expansion in India’s hospitality sector

/in /by

In the wake of a groundbreaking year for Accor in India, marked by the signing of eleven strategic hotel deals and the inauguration of six key properties across the nation, the renowned hospitality group is poised to make further strategic announcements in 2024, solidifying its position as one of India’s leading international hotel chains.

Among the notable signings in 2023 were prestigious establishments such as the Fairmont Agra, Pullman Amritsar, Novotel Bengaluru Airport Varun, Grand Mercure Jaipur Kukas, and ibis Styles Bengaluru Airport Varun. These developments underscore Accor’s commitment to meeting the diverse preferences of travellers. Additionally, Accor expanded its Indian footprint by nearly 1,000 rooms through the launch of Novotel Mumbai International Airport, Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, Novotel Jodhpur ITI Centre, Grand Mercure Agra, ibis Mumbai Thane, and ibis Styles Goa Vagator.

Pullman Amritsar: the exquisite hotel will offer 200 well-appointed rooms, three exceptional food and beverage outlets and a magnificent 1,200+ sqm banqueting facility. Guests will have access to a state-of-the-art fitness centre and spa alongside a relaxing swimming pool.

Accor currently operates 62 hotels under a range of iconic brands, including Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, ibis, and ibis Styles. The group’s dedication to innovation and excellence continues to shape India’s hospitality landscape.

Looking ahead to 2024, Accor plans to open six hotels across premium, midscale and economy segments, along with three luxury and lifestyle properties, further enriching its diverse portfolio.

In the luxury segment, the highly anticipated opening of Raffles Jaipur in the second quarter of 2024 promises to redefine grandeur and opulence in the heart of Rajasthan’s largest city.

Bengalaru Airport: Accor announced the signing of Novotel Bengaluru Airport Varun and Ibis Style Bengaluru Airport Varun, in collaboration with Varun Hospitality Pvt Ltd. The two hotels offer 180 well-appointed rooms each.

Catering to the premium sector, the unveiling of Grand Mercure Goa Candolim in the second quarter of 2024 will offer discerning travellers a harmonious blend of comfort and cultural immersion.

Accor’s commitment to providing quality and affordable accommodation options is underscored by the openings of Mercure Chandigarh and ibis Styles Mysuru in 2024, catering to the evolving needs of budget-conscious travellers.

Mysuru ibis: scheduled for opening in Q1 2025, ibis Styles Mysuru will offer 130 rooms, each with a unique character. The food and drink offerings at the property will be designed to cater to diverse tastes, featuring an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant and a relaxing lounge bar.

Scheduled for the third quarter of 2024, Accor’s Novotel brand will expand its footprint to key cities with the launch of Novotel Goa Panjim, Novotel New Delhi City Centre, and Novotel Bhubaneshwar.

Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor, expressed his enthusiasm, stating,

India holds a strong place in Accor’s global vision, embodying not just a market, but a place of opportunity and growth. We, at Accor, are resolute in our commitment to this dynamic and rapidly changing nation, where every hotel opening and signing stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication and desire to help positively shape a prosperous future for the country. We stand poised, brimming with excitement, to shape India’s vibrant hospitality landscape, offering not just accommodation, but meaningful experiences that resonate with both business and leisure travellers alike.

For further information on Accor’s offerings, business travellers are encouraged to contact their Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Air France elevates in-flight dining experience with new culinary partnerships

/in /by

From this month, Air France is set to elevate the culinary experience for its passengers with the introduction of new in-flight menus crafted by distinguished names in the world of cuisine.

As an ambassador for French fine dining, the airline continues its tradition of showcasing French haute cuisine to travellers around the globe.

Departing from Paris, passengers in La Première and Business cabins will be treated to culinary delights crafted by triple Michelin-starred French chefs Glenn Viel and Arnaud Lallement, alongside renowned pastry chefs Philippe Rigollot and Nina Métayer.

In the Premium Economy cabin, the culinary journey continues with dishes created by the single Michelin-starred chef Frédéric Simonin.

Collaborating with Servair, a leader in in-flight catering, Air France ensures that the menus are prepared using fresh, seasonal produce sourced locally.

Emphasising its commitment to responsible catering, the airline ensures that meat, poultry, dairy products, and eggs are of French origin, and the fish is sourced from sustainable fisheries on departure from Paris. Vegetarian options are also readily available across all cabins on every flight.

Glenn Viel, renowned for his innovative approach to French cuisine, has curated an exclusive menu for La Première passengers, showcasing a fusion of Breton and Provençal flavours.

Speaking about his collaboration with Air France, Viel expressed his pride in highlighting the French art de vivre, elegance, and refinement for La Première customers;

I am proud to be working with Air France, which has established itself as the flagship of French aviation and highlights our country and French gastronomy throughout the world.

For the company’s La Première customers, I wanted to highlight the French art de vivre, high standards, elegance and refinement.

Philippe Rigollot, Meilleur Ouvrier de France and world pastry champion, brings his expertise to the dessert menu, offering a selection of delectable sweet pastries that promise to tantalize the taste buds of passengers. He said,

For Air France, I worked on light treats made of cream and sugar. I wanted to introduce different flavours and textures to the travellers of our wonderful airline. It’s a pleasure to serve you!

In the Business cabin, Arnaud Lallement presents a contemporary and gourmet cuisine infused with emotion, featuring dishes that reflect the essence of each season. Complementing Lallement’s creations, Nina Métayer delights passengers with her signature desserts designed as perfect travel companions.

In the Premium Economy cabin, Frédéric Simonin continues to impress with his meticulous attention to detail, presenting dishes prepared with the utmost respect for the chosen ingredients, providing passengers with a special culinary experience.

Air France extends its exceptional partnerships on flights departing from international stations, offering menus signed by acclaimed chefs such as Dominique Crenn, Olivier Perret, Jean-Charles Brédas, Jofrane Dailly, and Julien Royer, showcasing a diverse range of culinary expertise from around the world.

As Air France continues to redefine the in-flight dining experience, passengers can indulge in a journey of gastronomic delights that celebrate the rich heritage of French cuisine.

For further information about Air France’s culinary offerings, travellers are encouraged to contact their Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Indulge in affordable luxury: Singapore Airlines refreshes Premium Economy experience

/in /by

Singapore Airlines has announced a significant upgrade to its Premium Economy Class in-flight offerings, set to debut on flights from 31 March 2024.

This revamped experience promises an array of enhancements, including an expanded selection of culinary delights and a brand new amenity kit, all aimed at elevating the journey for business and leisure travellers alike.

Premium Economy Class passengers can now indulge in a glass of Charles de Cazanove Brut Tradition NV Champagne shortly after take-off, setting the tone for a luxurious flight experience.

The introduction of a hard copy menu card showcases an extensive range of meal, snack and beverage options available throughout the journey. Meals will be served in elegant custom-made porcelain serviceware, adding a touch of sophistication to the dining experience.

For flights lasting seven hours or more, passengers can look forward to the all-new Out of the Woods amenity kit, exclusively designed to cater to Premium Economy Class travellers.

Crafted from eco-friendly materials, the kit includes eyeshades and slippers made from recycled PET material, along with a lip balm packaged in biodegradable material, ensuring both comfort and sustainability.

This comprehensive revamp marks the first major update to Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) Premium Economy Class since its inception in 2015, reflecting the airline’s commitment to providing exceptional service and meeting the evolving needs of its passengers.

Mr Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President Customer Experience at Singapore Airlines, commented,

Premium Economy Class has garnered popularity among our customers since its introduction. However, at Singapore Airlines, we continuously strive to enhance our offerings and exceed customer expectations. This revamp of our Premium Economy Class experience reflects our dedication to providing a personalised and world-class journey for our passengers.

One of the highlights of the revamped Premium Economy Class experience is the introduction of over 200 new appetisers, main courses and desserts.

Passengers can expect a delectable array of options, including seasonal appetisers, premium main course selections, and indulgent desserts.

New additions to the menu include Beef Bourguignon, Bak Chor Mee, and Thai-style Crab Curry, catering to a diverse range of palates.

The introduction of upgraded bread options, such as croissants and garlic bread rolls, adds a delightful touch to meal times. Passengers can also enjoy an expanded Book the Cook menu, featuring up to 20 dishes available for pre-order, including popular favourites and new additions like Slow Braised Lamb Ragout and Mushroom Eggplant Meatballs.I

Complementing the gourmet dining experience are a curated selection of wines, Champagne and spirits, ensuring passengers can savour the finest beverages during their journey. Additionally, SIA has expanded its non-alcoholic beverage selection to include peppermint and chamomile teas, as well as hot chocolate from Cadbury, catering to diverse preferences.

In collaboration with Out of the Woods, SIA has introduced a brand new amenity kit for Premium Economy Class passengers, featuring eco-friendly and sustainable products. This thoughtful addition underscores the airline’s commitment to providing a premium and environmentally-conscious travel experience.

Premium Economy Class passengers can enjoy a host of on-ground privileges, including priority check-in and boarding, as well as a generous checked baggage allowance. In-flight, passengers can relax in ergonomically-designed seats, offering ample space and comfort for the duration of the journey.

For those seeking entertainment, the sleek 13.3-inch full HD monitor and KrisWorld entertainment system offer a diverse selection of movies, television programmes, music, and games, ensuring a truly immersive in-flight experience.

As Singapore Airlines continues to redefine the travel experience, the enhanced Premium Economy Class offering reaffirms its commitment to providing unparalleled service and comfort to passengers.

For more information about the upgraded Premium Economy Class experience, passengers are encouraged to contact their Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Flying Forward: Malaysia Airlines joins forces with United

/in /by

Malaysia Airlines has taken a significant leap in expanding its global presence by securing a strategic partnership with Manchester United football club as its Official Commercial Airline.

With this collaboration, Malaysia Airlines aims to extend its exceptional services to Manchester United’s extensive community of over 1.1 billion fans worldwide, leveraging co-branded marketing initiatives to enhance brand recognition across diverse global audiences.

In tandem with MATTA Fair 2024, a major trade fair in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Airlines unveiled its plans to launch flights to three new destinations: Malé, Maldives (MLE), Da Nang, Vietnam (DAD), and Chiang Mai, Thailand (CNX). These new routes aim to enhance connectivity from its main hub in Kuala Lumpur and cater to the growing demand for travel to these destinations. Tickets for these flights are now available for purchase, with services commencing from August 2024 onwards.

The airline’s commitment to expanding its network reflects its ambition to strengthen its position as the gateway to Asia and beyond. As a member of the oneworld® alliance, Malaysia Airlines already offers extensive connectivity to over 900 destinations in 170 territories worldwide.

Malaysia Airlines also unveiled its new A330neo Business Class and Economy Class seats as part of its fleet modernisation plan.

The new A330neo cabin will feature the innovative Collins Aerospace Elevation Business Class seats, offering passengers an unparalleled level of comfort and privacy with individual suite cabins and wireless charging pods. This initiative reinforces Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to passenger experience and innovation, making it a leader in the industry.

In addition to the Business Class upgrades, the Economy Class will feature the award-winning Recaro CL3810 seats, designed for enhanced comfort and practicality. The cabin’s aesthetics will showcase Malaysia’s cultural heritage through the incorporation of the signature songket motif in the seat covers.

Commenting on these developments, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), expressed his optimism for the future of Malaysia Airlines. He highlighted the airline’s resilience amidst challenges and its commitment to delivering excellence in every aspect of its service. He said,

Our partnership with Manchester United, the expansion of our flight network, and the introduction of our new cabin seats mark the beginning of an exciting journey for Malaysia Airlines. As we focus on elevating the customer experience, we remain dedicated to delivering excellence and fostering growth.

Malaysia Airlines’ Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group, Izham Ismail announced the partnerhsip with Manchester United at MATTA Fair 2024. To celebrate the announcement, former Manchester United defenders Patrice Evra and Wes Brown flew to Kuala Lumpur to attend the event, to share their experiences of travelling the world as both players and ambassadors for the club.

During the event the two United legends were asked about the significance of the new partnership. Evra said,

Manchester United has fans from all over the world, and the passionate support we have here in Asia never fails to impress me. I am pleased to be able to share our partnership with Malaysia Airlines with those fans and introduce them to the best-in-class service they offer.

Wes and I travelled here on Malaysia Airlines, and I would like to thank them for such a comfortable journey. From the food to the comfortable seats and friendly service, everything was perfect.

Wes Brown said,

I am fortunate enough to represent Manchester United at events all over the world. I have visited Malaysia many times, and I am always blown away by the warm welcome I receive. Malaysia Airlines is a true representation of Malaysia’s friendly culture, and I cannot wait to work with them to engage with our fantastic supporters.

Also speaking at the event was Manchester United’s CEO of Alliances and Partnerships, Victoria Timpson, who said,

Manchester United has a long-standing and proud connection with Malaysia, with a history of passionate support from across the country. We have three official Malaysian supporter’s clubs, with the Kuala Lumpur branch boasting one of the club’s largest supporter communities, reflecting the country’s love of all things United. We are very pleased to welcome Malaysia Airlines to our family of partners and look forward to sharing with our global fans its trusted, welcoming and hospitable service.

Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group, Izham Ismail, said,

We are delighted to announce this exciting partnership with Manchester United, a club synonymous with excellence and sporting passion around the world. This collaboration brings together two global icons, Malaysia Airlines and Manchester United, and will create unforgettable experiences for our fans and customers. Aligning with a globally recognised club like United places Malaysia Airlines in front of a massive worldwide audience, significantly boosting brand recognition, especially in Europe and Southeast Asia where United has a large fanbase. We look forward to the exciting opportunities this collaboration brings and the joy it will bring to football enthusiasts worldwide.

Business travellers and frequent flyers can experience the new offerings firsthand at the ongoing MATTA Fair, where the new cabin seats are on display until 24 March 2024.

For further information on these developments or to book your next business trip with Malaysia Airlines, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Singapore Airlines elevates Premium Economy class: new dining and amenity experiences unveiled

/in /by

Singapore Airlines has announced exciting enhancements to its Premium Economy Class in-flight experience, set to debut on flights from 31 March.

This revamp includes an array of upgrades aimed at elevating comfort and luxury for passengers, ranging from improved dining options to a brand-new amenity kit.

Premium Economy Class travellers can anticipate a heightened level of hospitality right from take-off, as they will now be welcomed with a glass of Charles de Cazanove Brut Tradition NV champagne, setting the tone for a refined journey ahead.

To complement this, a meticulously curated hard copy menu card awaits passengers, showcasing an extensive selection of meal, snack, and beverage options available throughout the flight.

In a move to further enhance the dining experience, SIA has developed over 200 new appetisers, main courses, and desserts, ensuring a diverse and delectable offering for passengers.

From garlic roasted prawns with smoked aioli to Thai-style Crab Curry, there should be something to tantalise every palate.

Additionally, customers can indulge in upgraded bread options such as croissants for breakfast or garlic bread rolls for other meal times.

The introduction of seasonal appetisers and expanded Book the Cook menu adds an element of culinary excitement, allowing passengers to pre-order their preferred dishes up to 24 hours before departure.

SIA has also paid meticulous attention to the presentation of meals, serving them in elegant custom-made porcelain serviceware on linen-lined trays.

Complementing the gourmet meals is a selection of wines and Champagne, carefully curated by SIA’s panel of experts, offering passengers a premium inflight dining experience.

For those in need of refreshments between meals, a variety of snack options including almonds, cashews and flavoured popcorn will be available upon request, providing a satisfying treat throughout the flight.

In addition to the culinary enhancements, Premium Economy Class passengers will receive an all-new amenity kit designed exclusively by Out of the Woods.

The eco-friendly kit features eyeshades and slippers made from recycled PET material, aligning with SIA’s commitment to sustainability.

Mr Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President Customer Experience at Singapore Airlines, expressed the airline’s dedication to continuously improving the Premium Economy Class experience, stating,

At Singapore Airlines, our philosophy is to never stand still. We regularly gather customer feedback and conduct market research to find innovative ways to deliver a personalised and world-class in-flight experience.

Passengers looking to experience the enhanced Premium Economy Class offering are encouraged to contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager for further information and bookings.

Dave

Immerse yourself in art: Radisson RED Madrid hosts inaugural contemporary exhibition

/in /by

Radisson Hotel Group’s vibrant lifestyle brand, Radisson RED, has forged an exciting partnership with this year’s ARCOMadrid contemporary art fair, debuting an inaugural contemporary art exhibition at Radisson RED Madrid.

Featuring works by two prominent figures in the world of contemporary art, Diana Larrea and Daniel Canogar, winners of the XIX edition of the ARCO/BEEP Award for Electronic Art, the exhibition is set to captivate visitors until 31 March.

Contemporary artists: Diana Larrea and Daniel Canogar

Diana Larrea’s contribution to the exhibition includes a selection of 23 works, showcasing her unique approach to art restoration through infrared reflectography. Larrea’s pieces reveal hidden layers of information beneath opaque pigments, inviting viewers into a world of discovery. Additionally, Larrea’s “Such a Day Like Today” photographs blend feminist activism with historical research, shedding light on forgotten women artists of the past.

Daniel Canogar, one of Spain’s foremost digital artists, presents three innovative projects at Radisson RED Madrid. His award-winning piece, “Scrawl,” reacts to real-time Twitter trends, capturing the essence of social media dynamics. “Wayward” revisits the tradition of postwar artists manipulating press photos, while “Chyron” uses news tickers to explore the complexities of today’s information ecosystem.

In conjunction with the gallery Espacio Mínimo and the Max Estrella gallery, Radisson RED Madrid offers curated art tours, allowing guests to explore the rich cultural landscape of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art. These tours highlight the role of women in museums and showcase the artistic treasures found in the city.

Radisson RED: The Madrid hotel is located on Calle de Atocha, one of the main bustling avenues in Madrid and in the heart of the Golden Triangle of Art, steps away from some of the world’s most renowned art museums, galleries, and UNESCO heritage sites

Situated on Calle de Atocha, in the heart of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, Radisson RED Madrid provides the perfect backdrop for this cultural extravaganza. Boasting 260 modern rooms, including 10 suites, the hotel embodies Radisson RED’s commitment to bold, cutting-edge design. Guests can indulge in culinary delights from 3-star Michelin chef Eneko Atxa while enjoying panoramic views from the rooftop.

For those eager to explore Madrid’s vibrant art scene, Radisson RED Madrid offers an unforgettable experience, blending contemporary luxury with artistic inspiration.

To book a stay at Radisson RED Madrid, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Heathrow and Heston Blumenthal’s café unveil Sustainable Aviation Fuel breakfast

/in /by

Heathrow Airport, in collaboration with renowned chef Heston Blumenthal’s Perfectionists’ Café, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at raising awareness about Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and its pivotal role in decarbonising the aviation industry.

The initiative introduces a unique breakfast experience, named The Fly Up, which not only offers passengers a delicious start to their day but also showcases the innovative use of SAF in culinary applications.

The Fly Up breakfast, developed in partnership with Heston Blumenthal, is cooked using oil that is subsequently cleaned and recycled into renewable biofuels.

This innovative approach not only demonstrates the potential of SAF but also addresses the pressing need for sustainable solutions within the aviation sector.

Despite its significance, recent research reveals that only 14% of travellers are aware of SAF, highlighting the importance of initiatives like The Fly Up in increasing understanding and acceptance of this crucial technology.

Heston Blumenthal: the legendary chef’s T2 restaurant at Heathrow, Perfectionists Café has unveiled the groundbreaking initiative

SAF represents a significant opportunity for the aviation industry to reduce its carbon footprint and work towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Heathrow has been at the forefront of promoting the use of SAF, with ambitious targets to incorporate it into its operations. Currently, over 95% of the airport’s operational diesel fleet runs on HVO biodiesel, showcasing its commitment to sustainable practices on the ground. Additionally, Heathrow aims to have 11% of the jet fuel used at the airport derived from SAF by 2030.

In pursuit of its sustainability goals, Heathrow has implemented a pioneering Sustainable Aviation Fuel scheme, which incentivises airlines to use SAF by reducing the price gap between conventional jet fuel and SAF. This initiative has already seen significant success, with approximately 10% of the world’s SAF used at Heathrow in 2022.

Looking ahead, the airport aims to further increase the proportion of SAF used, with a target of 2.5% of all fuel used at Heathrow to be SAF by 2024.

Fly Up: The launch of breakfast coincides with Heathrow’s efforts to educate passengers about the benefits of SAF and encourage them to support sustainable aviation initiatives

The launch of The Fly Up breakfast coincides with Heathrow’s efforts to educate passengers about the benefits of SAF and encourage them to support sustainable aviation initiatives.

By partnering with climate tech company CHOOOSE, Heathrow offers passengers the opportunity to contribute to SAF or certified reforestation projects, regardless of their airline or destination.

This initiative aims to empower passengers to make more environmentally conscious travel choices and support the transition to sustainable aviation.

Matt Gorman, Director of Carbon at Heathrow, emphasised the significance of partnerships like The Fly Up in driving awareness and adoption of SAF. He stated,

We want people to understand how SAF is a real solution to decarbonise aviation and show how we’re continuing our mission to get to Net Zero by 2050.

Carlos Santos, Head Chef at The Perfectionists’ Café, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting The Fly Up breakfast as a positive step towards a more sustainable future for air travel.

Karolien De Hertogh, Director Sales U.K. and Ireland at United Airlines, underscored the airline’s commitment to sustainability and praised initiatives like The Fly Up for raising awareness about SAF and its potential to decarbonise aviation.

Heathrow’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own operations, with initiatives like The Fly Up serving as catalysts for industry-wide change.

As the aviation industry transitions towards net-zero emissions, initiatives that promote awareness and adoption of sustainable practices will play a crucial role in shaping the future of air travel.

For flight bookings to, from or via Heathrow, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.