Dave

Delta and Uber team up to reward business travellers with SkyMiles

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Delta Air Lines has announced an exciting new partnership with Uber, enabling SkyMiles members to earn miles on eligible rides and deliveries starting in spring 2025. Revealed at CES 2025, this collaboration represents a significant step towards Delta’s vision of seamless, multi-modal travel, connecting travellers’ entire journey from home to destination.

For Global Travel Management’s business travel clients, this partnership offers a convenient and rewarding way to optimise travel expenses. With more than 15% of all Uber bookings either starting or ending at an airport, the integration between Delta and Uber is poised to make business travel smoother and more rewarding for UK-based business travellers.

SkyMiles members who link their accounts will earn one mile per dollar spent on UberX rides to and from airports, two miles per dollar on premium rides, and three miles per dollar on Uber Reserve rides. Additionally, members can earn one mile per dollar spent on eligible restaurant and grocery deliveries via Uber Eats. This partnership not only enhances the value of frequent travel but also supports business travellers by providing a more integrated and efficient experience.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian said:

Delta is bringing together innovative technologies and partnerships to create a connected travel experience from start to finish. This collaboration with Uber gives customers more choice and convenience, aligning perfectly with our commitment to transforming the future of travel.

The benefits extend beyond miles. By linking Delta and Uber accounts, business travellers can enjoy enhanced connectivity across their journey, from ground transportation to Delta’s in-flight experience. This partnership underscores Delta’s commitment to creating a frictionless travel experience and reflects its strategy of integrating with trusted, everyday brands.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented:

This new partnership between Delta and Uber is a game-changer for UK-based business travellers. Not only does it reward essential travel, but it also simplifies the journey from door to destination, providing convenience and value for our clients.

With the ability to link accounts and start earning miles, business travellers can look forward to a more rewarding and connected journey. This collaboration highlights Delta’s commitment to innovation and to creating a seamless experience for its customers.

If you’d like to learn more about how this partnership can benefit your business travel programme, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Air France introduces signature fragrance AF001 to enhance traveller experience

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For the first time in its history, Air France has launched its signature home fragrance, AF001, created in collaboration with renowned master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, artistic director of Maison Francis Kurkdjian. This initiative underscores Air France’s commitment to showcasing French excellence and enhancing the sensory experience for its passengers.

For UK-based business travellers, this development highlights Air France’s dedication to delivering a superior travel experience. The introduction of AF001 in lounges and cabins elevates the ambiance, providing a more relaxing and enjoyable environment, ideal for preparing for or unwinding after a business trip.

From 15 January 2025, this unique fragrance will be introduced at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, greeting passengers in the lobbies, lounges, and La Première suites. Initially featured in lounges across terminals 2E (halls L and M), 2F, and 2G, the fragrance will be gradually rolled out to other Air France lounges globally. With its comforting musky scent, mimosa notes from southern France, and delicate floral hints of jasmine and rose, AF001 evokes space, calm, and light – a true olfactory journey for travellers.

Francis Kurkdjian shared his pride in creating this exclusive fragrance:

It was the illusion of a ray of sunshine on the wings of an aircraft that inspired me to create this light, fresh and comforting home fragrance.” Fabien Pelous, SVP Customer Experience at Air France, added, “The Air France travel experience now elevates all five senses…and now smell with this prestigious signature fragrance.

The fragrance is a nod to Air France’s iconic history, with its name, AF001, referencing the legendary Concorde flights between Paris and New York. Designed to accompany travellers from the very start of their journey, AF001 captures the French art of living and reinforces Air France’s brand identity.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented:

This thoughtful enhancement from Air France demonstrates their commitment to improving the business travel experience for UK customers. The addition of AF001 promises to make lounges and cabins more welcoming and enjoyable for travellers.

If you would like information on any Air France flights, routes and fares, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Meet Sama: Qatar Airways introduces the world’s first digital human cabin crew

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Meet Sama, the world’s first AI-powered digital human cabin crew, who is now making waves on social media as the face of Qatar Airways’ innovation. Sama’s Instagram account, @SamaOnTheMove, combines travel tips, personal stories from her layovers, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into life as a cabin crew member, offering a fresh perspective for travellers worldwide.

For UK-based business travellers, Sama’s presence on social media presents a unique opportunity to gain insights into Qatar Airways’ extensive network of over 170 destinations. Her posts provide valuable travel tips and inspiration for navigating key business hubs and discovering hidden gems during work trips. Sama’s engaging and relatable content ensures that business travellers can stay informed and connected to the latest in global travel trends.

Qatar Airways’ Senior Vice President Marketing and Corporate Communications, Mr. Babar Rahman, commented:

Introducing Sama on Instagram is an extension of our vision to blend human connection with technological innovation. Sama is not just a digital human; she’s a reflection of how we see the future of travel—personal, engaging, and deeply connected to the experiences that matter. Her presence marks a step forward in how we humanise our brand and create moments that resonate with our global audience.

Sama’s debut at ITB Berlin 2024 was met with great acclaim, showcasing Qatar Airways’ commitment to innovation and emotional engagement. Whether she’s sharing tips on navigating a new city, uncovering cultural treasures, or offering a behind-the-scenes perspective on life in the skies, Sama’s content is designed to inspire and inform. She invites followers to explore diverse cultures and traditions, ensuring that every journey is memorable and enriching.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, said:

Sama’s arrival is an exciting development for UK-based business travellers. Her content offers practical insights and inspiration for navigating some of the world’s most important business destinations. It’s another example of how innovation in travel can enhance the experience for those who travel for work.

Discover Sama’s journey and experience the future of travel storytelling by following her on Instagram at instagram.com/SamaOnTheMove.

Dave

Emirates unveils special Real Madrid livery on Boeing 777 ahead of Spanish Super Cup

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Emirates, the Official Main Partner of Real Madrid, has unveiled a special livery on one of its Boeing 777 aircraft, celebrating its long-standing partnership with the iconic football club. The aircraft landed in Madrid yesterday, flying Real Madrid’s first team players on a special chartered flight to Jeddah for the Spanish Super Cup tournament, which runs from 8 to 12 January.

This development is particularly exciting for UK-based business travellers who frequently fly with Emirates, as the airline continues to demonstrate its commitment to offering unique experiences and world-class service. Emirates has been a partner of Real Madrid since 2011 and became the club’s shirt sponsor in 2013, with the partnership now extending to 2026 – marking the longest shirt sponsorship in La Liga history.

The newly revealed livery showcases top Real Madrid players, including Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Luka Modric, Lucas Vazquez and Federico Valverde, providing an added touch of exclusivity for passengers aboard the aircraft.

Real Madrid fans and frequent Emirates flyers can look forward to spotting the specially designed Boeing 777 as it flies to destinations such as Athens, Vienna, Miami, Seattle and Kuwait. For business travellers, this collaboration highlights Emirates’ continued efforts to connect travellers with unique opportunities while delivering exceptional service.

In addition to its innovative partnerships, Emirates has made significant investments in enhancing its fleet. With a multi-billion dollar retrofit programme, the airline has refurbished 40 aircraft, including the introduction of its highly praised Premium Economy cabins. Emirates has also expanded its fleet with the addition of its first A350, which currently serves routes including Edinburgh, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented,

This latest development from Emirates demonstrates the airline’s dedication to elevating the travel experience. UK-based business travellers flying with Emirates can enjoy not only world-class service but also the unique opportunity to engage with exclusive partnerships like this one, making their journeys even more memorable.

For further details about Emirates’ enhanced services and its latest developments, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.

Dave

United Airlines speeds up Starlink deployment, offering faster inflight internet by spring 2025

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United Airlines has announced an accelerated timeline to equip its fleet with Starlink’s industry-leading inflight connectivity, promising faster and more reliable internet for business travellers by the end of 2025.

This news is particularly relevant to UK-based business travellers who frequently fly with United, as the rollout of Starlink will enhance inflight productivity and entertainment. High-speed, low-latency internet access will allow passengers to engage in seamless video conferencing, real-time collaboration, and entertainment streaming during their flights, significantly improving the overall travel experience.

United will begin testing Starlink on its Embraer E-175 aircraft next month, with the first commercial flight expected this spring. The airline plans to outfit its entire two-cabin regional fleet by the end of 2025, while the first mainline aircraft equipped with Starlink is set to take off before the year’s end. Ultimately, United aims to bring Starlink connectivity to its entire fleet.

MileagePlus members will benefit from free access to this advanced connectivity, which will support a wide range of inflight entertainment options, including streaming services, online shopping and gaming. Membership to the loyalty programme is free, and customers can sign up now at united.com/starlink.

Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative:

We have a lot planned for our MileagePlus members this year and adding Starlink to as many planes as we can – as quickly as we can – is at the centre of it all. It’s not only going to revolutionise the experience of flying United, but it’s also going to unlock tons of new partnerships and benefits for our members that otherwise wouldn’t be possible.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the development:

Reliable, high-speed inflight internet is a game-changer for our clients who travel regularly for business. United’s partnership with Starlink will enable our customers to stay connected and productive throughout their flights, making business travel more efficient and enjoyable.

United’s commitment to providing robust inflight connectivity follows its landmark agreement with SpaceX, the company founded by Elon Musk, in September, representing the largest agreement of its kind in the airline industry. The Starlink system, designed and operated by SpaceX, uses a low Earth orbit satellite constellation to deliver broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, and video calls, mirroring the speed and reliability of ground-based connections.

For more information about United flights, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Five more Airbus A350-1000s to join Lufthansa’s fleet as part of modernisation strategy

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The Lufthansa Group has announced an additional order of five Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, bringing the total number of A350s ordered to 75. This latest acquisition reinforces Lufthansa’s ongoing commitment to fleet modernisation and sustainability, with deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2030.

For UK-based business travellers, the introduction of more state-of-the-art aircraft by one of Europe’s leading airlines translates to greater comfort, improved efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint on international routes frequently used by corporate clients.

Lufthansa’s expanding A350 fleet will replace older, four-engine models such as the Boeing 747-400 and Airbus A340 series, which are being gradually phased out. The new aircraft consume up to 35% less fuel and produce significantly lower CO₂ emissions, supporting Lufthansa’s goal of halving net CO₂ emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, highlighted the significance of this order, stating:

Today’s order underscores our great confidence in our long-standing, close and successful partnership with Airbus. With the state-of-the-art A350 long-haul jets, we are accelerating the largest fleet modernisation the Group has done so far. We are investing more than ever before to make air transport more sustainable, to achieve our CO₂ reduction targets and at the same time offer our customers the highest level of comfort with a first-class travel experience.

This latest investment of around two billion US dollars not only enhances Lufthansa’s fleet but also strengthens their competitive edge as one of the largest A350 customers globally. The A350-1000 offers approximately 15% more capacity compared to the A350-900, enhancing the airline’s ability to meet growing demand on high-traffic business routes.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the news:

Lufthansa’s continued investment in cutting-edge aircraft is excellent news for UK-based business travellers. The improved efficiency, lower emissions and enhanced passenger experience align perfectly with the evolving needs of corporate travellers who value sustainability and comfort in their journeys.

To date, Lufthansa has ordered 770 aircraft from Airbus, cementing its status as Airbus’ largest customer worldwide. The upcoming integration of ITA Airways into the Lufthansa Group in January will further expand the fleet by an additional 100 short- and long-haul aircraft.

If you would like further information about flights on Lufthansa Group airlines, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Less Orange, More Green – easyJet’s lighter paint delivers big environmental gains

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easyJet has become the first airline in the world to trial a revolutionary lower-weight aircraft paint, which is set to reduce fuel consumption and cut carbon emissions.

This innovative move is great news for UK-based business travellers who rely on easyJet for their domestic and international journeys. Lower fuel usage translates to cost efficiencies, helping to keep fares competitive while reducing the airline’s environmental footprint.

The cutting-edge paint, developed by Mankiewicz Aviation Coatings, requires less material to achieve the same bright and durable finish as traditional coatings. So far, easyJet has applied the new paint to 38 aircraft, with plans to extend the rollout across the entire fleet by 2030. This will lead to an estimated fuel saving of up to 1,296 tonnes annually, reducing carbon emissions by 4,095 tonnes.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented:

Business travellers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of flying. It’s fantastic to see easyJet taking proactive steps to reduce emissions. Innovations like this lighter paint contribute to more sustainable travel options for our customers.

The new paint delivers a weight reduction of approximately 27kg per aircraft. While this might seem modest, when applied across an entire fleet and combined with other fuel-saving initiatives, the cumulative effect is substantial. EasyJet has paired this initiative with fleet renewal, operational efficiencies, and airspace modernisation as part of its broader roadmap to net zero by 2050.

Lahiru Ranasinghe, Director of Sustainability at easyJet, said:

easyJet is constantly exploring and developing innovative solutions to lower the impact of our operations. While this forms a small part of a bigger strategy, formulating a new lightweight paint with our partners at Mankiewicz Aviation Coatings exemplifies how we’re assessing every single part of our operation to find efficiency gains to help us achieve this mission.

Andrew Richardson, Aviation Sales Manager at Mankiewicz Aviation Coatings, expressed his pride in working alongside easyJet on this sustainability initiative:

Sustainability and environmental guardianship are at the heart of Mankiewicz’s core values. Being able to work closely with easyJet has been very rewarding.

The paint application process is handled by MAAS Aviation at its Maastricht facility. Richard Marston, Chief Commercial Officer at MAAS Aviation, highlighted the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility: “We work closely with our supply chain to ensure we use the latest technology products that deliver the highest standards of performance and finish, while reducing the impact on the world around us.”

For UK-based business travellers, easyJet’s adoption of sustainable practices ensures that essential business journeys can be completed with lower environmental impact. This initiative is one of many steps easyJet is taking to enhance sustainability while maintaining reliable and cost-effective services for business travellers.

If you would like further information about easyJet’s fares, routes and timetables, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Introducing The British Airways Club: More ways to earn Tier Points

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British Airways has announced significant updates to its loyalty programme, introducing new ways for members to earn Tier Points and progress through the tiers.

These changes, effective from 1 April 2025, will directly benefit UK-based business travellers, offering them more opportunities to reach higher status levels through everyday spend. The rebrand sees the British Airways Executive Club become The British Airways Club, introducing enhanced methods of accumulating Tier Points through ancillary spend, credit card usage, and British Airways Holidays packages.

From April, members will earn one Tier Point for every £1 spent on eligible extras such as seat selection, additional baggage and even contributions to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This shift means that business travellers can now boost their Tier status not just through flights but through associated travel expenses, ensuring faster progression and increased benefits.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, highlighted the advantage to UK-based business travellers:

These changes represent an exciting opportunity for our clients. The ability to earn Tier Points through seat selection, baggage fees and even holiday bookings makes it easier than ever to gain and maintain status. For business travellers, this creates a great way to maximise rewards, reflecting the diverse nature of corporate travel today.

A key enhancement is the permanent introduction of limitless Tier Point earning on British Airways Holidays. This follows the success of a double Tier Points promotion, now made permanent, enabling business travellers to achieve elite status with fewer trips.

Additionally, later in 2025, BA American Express Premium Plus Cardmembers will have the chance to earn up to 2,500 Tier Points by spending on their card, further enhancing the opportunities available.

Colm Lacy, British Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said:

The changes we have announced today underline our continued investment in our loyalty programme and in our customers. Based on our Members’ feedback, we’ve built on the changes we’ve already made – including how customers collect Avios and their membership year – in a way that we believe better rewards their loyalty and reflects their changing travel needs.

To mark the launch, British Airways is offering bonus Tier Points for bookings made before 14 February 2025 for travel from 1 April 2025 onwards.

Global Travel Management clients with existing bookings for travel after 1 April 2025 will automatically have their Tier Points adjusted to the new earning method, ensuring they receive the same or higher rewards as under the current system.

If you would like to find out how these changes can benefit your business travel, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.

Dave

Qatar Airways and Qatar Executive lead the way in inflight connectivity with Starlink

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Qatar Airways and Qatar Executive are both leading the way in providing exceptional inflight connectivity with the rollout of Starlink technology across their fleets. Qatar Airways has surpassed its target for 2024 by equipping fifteen Boeing 777 aircraft with Starlink, offering passengers high-speed internet access of up to 350 megabits per second. Meanwhile, Qatar Executive, the private jet charter division of Qatar Airways, has announced the integration of Starlink on its Gulfstream G650ER fleet, further enhancing the travel experience for its discerning clients.

This dual rollout is a significant milestone for both Qatar Airways and Qatar Executive, marking a new era of seamless connectivity in the skies. Business travellers will benefit greatly from the ability to stay connected throughout their journey. With Starlink on board, passengers can stream content, hold video conferences, and work uninterrupted while cruising at altitudes of up to 45,000 feet.

For UK-based professionals who frequently travel for business, this means staying productive and engaged, regardless of location.

Qatar Airways has now equipped fifteen of its Boeing 777 aircraft with Starlink, far surpassing its initial goal of twelve by the end of 2024.

This fleet enhancement positions the airline as the largest global carrier offering complimentary Starlink on board, providing passengers with a consistent and reliable connection during their flights. With Starlink, passengers can enjoy a superior inflight experience, whether they are working, streaming entertainment, or simply staying connected with friends and family.

Similarly, Qatar Executive’s decision to equip its Gulfstream G650ER fleet with Starlink will offer passengers on private jet charters an unparalleled inflight experience. From 14 December 2024, the first Starlink-equipped Gulfstream G650ER will begin operating, providing high-speed internet for business travellers who expect the best in luxury and connectivity.

High speed: Starlink at 45,000 feet, aboard a Qatar Executive Gulfstream G650ER

By May 2025, Starlink will be installed across the first five aircraft in the fleet, with plans to expand this to the entire Gulfstream fleet over the next eighteen months.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented:

The introduction of Starlink on both Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777s and Qatar Executive’s Gulfstream G650ER fleet is a groundbreaking development for business travellers. As the demand for seamless connectivity continues to rise, these innovations will ensure that passengers can remain productive and connected, whether flying long-haul on a commercial flight or enjoying the privacy and luxury of a private jet.

Qatar Airways and Qatar Executive’s integration of Starlink technology underscores their commitment to delivering world-class service and cutting-edge technology for their passengers. The ability to access high-speed internet during flight allows business travellers to stay ahead of the curve, meeting deadlines and maintaining communication from anywhere in the world.

To find out how these advancements in inflight connectivity can enhance your business travel experience, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Lufthansa Group marks 30 years of climate research with innovative data collection on passenger flights

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The Lufthansa Group has been a key contributor to climate and atmospheric research for over 30 years, using its fleet of passenger aircraft to collect valuable data on the atmosphere. This ongoing commitment aids in refining climate models and improving weather forecasts, benefitting both the scientific community and the wider public.

This long-standing partnership with research institutions such as the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the Jülich Research Center (FZJ) has seen Lufthansa’s aircraft equipped with scientific instruments that gather critical climate data during regular flights.

The data, including insights into ozone, water vapour, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides is made available for free to the global research community, supporting the work of more than 300 organisations around the world.

For UK-based business travellers, this is a significant development, as the data not only contributes to a better understanding of the environment but also supports more accurate weather forecasting – a crucial factor in flight planning, safety, and efficiency.

Grazia Vittadini, Chief Technology Officer of Lufthansa Group, highlights the company’s role in advancing climate research, saying:

We are proud to have been able to make a significant contribution to climate research for 30 years. The further development of aviation is deeply rooted in the DNA of the Lufthansa Group, and it is our aspiration to play a leading role in the development of new technologies. It inspires me to see the passion and experience with which Lufthansa Group colleagues continuously discover new ways to advance research. Through our commitment, we are helping to sustainably improve climate models and weather forecasts.

Since 1994, the Lufthansa Group has partnered in the MOZAIC and IAGOS projects, using its fleet of aircraft to collect continuous climate data. The company has recently expanded its research capabilities by converting a state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 into a flying research laboratory. This new initiative will measure over 100 different trace gases, aerosols, and cloud parameters from high altitudes, providing invaluable data that will support global climate research and contribute to the reduction of aviation’s environmental impact. Additionally, Lufthansa has implemented the AMDAR and WVSS-II systems across its fleet, which monitor meteorological data such as temperature, air pressure, and water vapour, aiding weather forecasting and climate modelling.

Paul Baker, Sales Director at Global Travel Management, comments:

The Lufthansa Group’s commitment to climate research highlights a positive shift in the aviation industry towards sustainability. For UK-based business travellers, this focus on improving climate models and weather forecasting means more accurate flight operations, greater efficiency, and a reduced environmental footprint, all of which align with the goals of today’s corporate travel programmes.

As the Lufthansa Group continues to expand its research capabilities and contribute to scientific advancements, its efforts underscore the potential of aviation to support a more sustainable and climate-conscious future.

For more information on Lufthansa Group flights, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.