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

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.


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

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.


Hilton Honors golf fans: exclusive experiences await at Solheim Cup 2024

The 2024 Solheim Cup, set to be one of the most prestigious international team competitions in golf, has announced Hilton as its Global Partner.

The renowned global hospitality company joins esteemed partners PING and Rolex in supporting this biennial international match-play competition, featuring top U.S. and European women golfers from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and the Ladies European Tour (LET).

Solheim Cup: US skipper Stacy Lewis prematurely puts her hand on the trophy, currently held by Europe

Scheduled to take place at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Va. in September 2024, this exciting collaboration solidifies Hilton’s commitment to delivering exceptional stay experiences to athletes, VIPs, and fans alike.

Mark Weinstein, Chief Marketing Officer at Hilton, expressed the company’s enthusiasm, stating,

Hilton is proud to partner with the 2024 Solheim Cup. We look forward to extending our signature Hilton hospitality to the remarkable golfers, their teams, and the devoted fans that will stay with us during the tournament.

Through this partnership, Hilton aims to provide world-class stay experiences for participants and fans, with a focus on unprecedented access for spectators and exclusive offerings for Hilton Honors members.

LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan welcomed Hilton to the team of esteemed Global Partners, stating,

The Solheim Cup is a celebration of excellence, teamwork and pride, and we are thrilled to welcome Hilton to our team for the 2024 edition.

A Unique Stay Experience: Hilton’s “Stay on the Green” Pop-Up Hotel

Adding a distinctive touch to the tournament, Hilton will introduce its award-winning “Stay on the Green” pop-up hotel. This fully functional Hilton hotel room will be strategically placed on the golf course, providing travellers with a unique opportunity to enjoy the competition from the comfort of a Hilton stay.

The well-appointed room will feature a private balcony, among other amenities.

Exclusive Hilton Honors Experiences for Loyal Fans

Hilton plans to launch exciting experiences and offers for its more than 180 million Hilton Honors members on the Hilton Honors Experiences platform. This ensures that the global community of golf enthusiasts can benefit from this partnership, receiving exclusive opportunities and perks.

Hilton as the Official Hotel: A World-Class Stay

Hilton’s Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. hotels will play a pivotal role in hosting fans, Hilton Honors members and athletes.

Hilton McLean Tysons Corner is designated as the Official Hotel of the event, providing exclusive accommodations for the U.S. and European teams as well as VIPs. This ensures a seamless blend of comfort and convenience for all participants.

Stay tuned for additional details about Hilton’s activations at the 2024 Solheim Cup, promising an even more engaging and memorable experience for fans worldwide.

For further information, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.


Luxury awaits: Marriott unveils The Park Lane Hong Kong and loyalty programme enhancements

Marriott International, Inc. has recently unveiled two exciting developments set to enhance the experience for business travellers travelling to Hong Kong.

First, the hotel giant has partnered with Victoria Park Hotels Ltd. to introduce The Park Lane Hong Kong, Autograph Collection in early 2025. This addition, nestled on Gloucester Road in Causeway Bay, will offer 820 guest rooms, three dining venues, and over 1,700 square meters of event space, promising unparalleled luxury and convenience for guests.

Yibing Mao, President of Greater China at Marriott International, expressed delight in expanding their footprint in Hong Kong,

We are delighted to work with Victoria Park Hotels to bring Autograph Collection Hotels to Hong Kong. It further underscores our commitment to grow our footprint in Hong Kong, an iconic international destination known for its unique culture that connects east and west. We look forward to providing broader breadth of our best brands and experiences that appeal to travelers around the globe.

Meanwhile, Charles Chan, CEO of Victoria Park Hotels, hailed the collaboration as a celebration of Park Lane’s 50-year legacy and the city’s rich heritage. He said,

Victoria Park Hotels are excited to work with Marriott International for our flagship, The Park Lane Hong Kong. Joining the Autograph Collection brand is a perfect match, recognising Park Lane’s 50 years’ legacy in Hong Kong and celebrating its’ uniqueness, whilst enjoying the strong global distribution and loyalty strength of the world’s leading hospitality organisation.

SKYE Roofbar: the breathtaking view from The Park Lane Hong Kong, Autograph Collection

In another significant move, Marriott Bonvoy, the company’s acclaimed travel programme, has joined forces with Cathay Membership program, Cathay’s loyalty scheme. This collaboration opens up exclusive benefits for members, including two-way points conversion and accelerated status upgrades.

Alison Yang, Vice President of Revenue Strategy, Loyalty & Partnerships for Greater China at Marriott International said,

As the travel industry continues to transform, we are committed to curating and delivering the best experiences to connect our members through the power of travel. Together with Cathay, the expansion of our global airline partnership program presents an opportunity to engage more members in the region as they go even further and explore new destinations around the world. By unlocking a new wealth of rewards and privileges with both loyalty programs, members are encouraged to partake in a broader variety of experiences and benefits, while forging genuine connections with people and places as they learn more and feel more deeply in their next adventures.

Paul Smitton, Director of Customer Lifestyle at Cathay, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the partnership’s commitment to enhancing member value and facilitating seamless journeys,

Strengthening our partnership with Marriott allows Cathay members to unlock benefits even when they’re not flying. Members can enjoy more ways to earn and redeem their points and miles, providing greater value add to the program. This enhancement reaffirms our commitment to building our Travel Lifestyle brand and exemplifies our approach to delivering a connected customer journey.

Among the new reciprocal benefits, members can elevate their status across both programmes through accelerated pathways, while enjoying enhanced points conversion for increased flexibility in redemptions. These initiatives are poised to redefine the travel landscape, offering unparalleled opportunities and rewards for business travellers globally.

For further information on travel to Hong Kong, flying with Cathay Pacific or staying at Marriott International hotels, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.


Eclipse in the air: Delta’s exclusive Flight 1218 takes you to the heart of totality

Buckle up for a celestial adventure with Delta as the airline unveils an exclusive opportunity for umbraphiles – those enamoured by total solar eclipses.

On 8 April 2024, Delta is set to operate a special flight, Flight 1218, from Austin to Detroit, offering passengers a unique chance to witness the total solar eclipse from the sky.

Scheduled on an A220-300 aircraft, renowned for its extra-large windows, this flight promises an unparalleled viewing experience for eclipse enthusiasts. Departing from Austin at 12:15 p.m. CT and landing in Detroit at 4:20 p.m. ET, the timing has been meticulously planned to provide passengers with the best opportunity to observe the solar eclipse at its peak.

Eric Beck, Managing Director of Domestic Network Planning, expressed the collaborative effort behind this unique flight, stating,

This flight is the result of significant collaboration and exemplifies the close teamwork Delta is known for — from selecting an aircraft with larger windows to determining the exact departure time from Austin and the experiences at the gate and in the air.

But the celestial spectacle doesn’t end there. Even if you miss the special flight, Delta offers prime eclipse-viewing opportunities on five additional routes on 8 April.

Don’t forget your protective viewing glasses if you’re on these flights:

  • DL 5699, DTW-HPN, 2:59 pm EST departure, ERJ-175
  • DL 924, LAX-DFW, 8:40 am PST departure, A320
  • DL 2869, LAX-SAT, 9:00 am PST departure, A319
  • DL 1001, SLC-SAT, 10:08 am MST departure, A220-300
  • DL 1683, SLC-AUS, 9:55 am MST departure, A320

For ground-based spectators, Delta flies to many destinations within the path of totality, including San Antonio and Little Rock.

Warren Weston, Delta Air Lines Lead Meteorologist, highlighted the significance of the upcoming eclipse, stating,

The April 8 eclipse is the last total eclipse we’ll see over North America until 2044. This eclipse will last more than twice as long as the one that occurred in 2017, and the path is nearly twice as wide.

It’s important to note that while Delta’s plans are designed to maximise time within the path of totality, factors beyond their control, such as weather and air traffic control, could impact timing and aircraft.

As the rare celestial event draws closer, those eager to book this astronomical adventure should contact their Global Travel Management Account Manager.


IHG expands luxury footprint: Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants debut in Sicily

Leading hotel company IHG Hotels & Resorts has revealed its latest venture, signing its inaugural Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants property in Italy.

The announcement, part of IHG’s rapidly expanding luxury & lifestyle portfolio, positions it as the second-largest globally.

The Kimpton hotel in Sicily is set to welcome guests in the latter half of 2025 through a management agreement with partner Società Turistica Alberghiera Taorminese.

In a strategic move, IHG has intensified its focus on the Italian market, evident with six luxury and lifestyle openings and signings in 2023 alone.

This includes noteworthy properties like the first urban expression of Six Senses in Rome, InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace and Hotel Indigo Florence.

The next few years should see the addition of Hotel Indigo properties in Turin and Trieste, along with IHG’s inaugural Vignette Collection property, Hotel Alexandra, in Rome next year.

Situated in the charming hill-top town of Taormina on Sicily’s east coast, the 59-boutique bedroom Kimpton hotel will blend heritage with Kimpton’s signature style, irreverence and design-led experiences.

Guests can anticipate a destination dining experience with panoramic views from the breakfast room and bar terrace spanning from Calabria to the Bay of Isolabella.

The Kimpton brand’s unique approach to wellness, extending beyond the expected, will be embodied in the Sicilian property. An outdoor Mediterranean garden, a 20-metre swimming pool, and a tennis court are among the features designed to enhance the guest experience.

Willemijn Geels, VP Development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement about the partnership with Società Turistica Alberghiera Taorminese. She said,

Italy has long been known for its reputation of luxury travel, breath-taking coastal locations and vibrant communities – and our growth strategy in the country has been designed to complement this.

Following a surge of activity in 2023, which saw us more than double our luxury and lifestyle offerings in this market, we’re now excited to be partnering with Società Turistica Alberghiera Taorminese to expand our presence in Italy with this boutique lifestyle property on the picturesque island of Sicily.

This expansion underscores the demand and trust from our owners to embed IHG’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio in one of Europe’s most coveted leisure destinations.

We look forward to delivering exceptional experiences to our guests and helping them create unforgettable memories once we open our doors in the second half of 2025.

IHG acquired Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in 2018, continuing the brand’s expansion into Europe and beyond.

The Sicilian property joins a global portfolio that includes Kimpton Vividora Barcelona, Kimpton St Honoré Paris, and Kimpton Fitzroy London.

Raffaele Ranucci, Owner, Società Turistica Alberghiera Taorminese, shared his delight in partnering with IHG to introduce the first Kimpton-branded hotel to Italy. He said,

We are delighted to be partnering with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring the first Kimpton branded hotel to Italy, in Sicily. This new and exciting chapter means we will welcome visitors to this one-of-a-kind destination once we open our doors in 2025, and provide guests with the unparalleled service, amenities, and experiences the Kimpton brand is known for.

Every Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant aims to foster genuine connections through unexpected, personalised touches, creating an authentic and unscripted guest experience. The Sicilian property is set to embody this ethos, introducing the brand’s culture of heartfelt hospitality and design-forward hotels to Italy.

The Kimpton in Sicily marks IHG Hotels & Resorts’ 30th hotel in Italy and contributes to a portfolio of eight Kimpton hotels across the UK and continental Europe. This is part of Kimpton’s global portfolio of 78 hotels across 12 countries, with a projected addition of 54 hotels by 2025, surpassing the 100-hotel milestone and extending its presence to 20 countries.

For further information about IHG hotels and to make bookings in any of the company’s hotels worldwide, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.


Luxury takes flight: Etihad Airways introduces new inflight collection

Etihad Airways, in a groundbreaking collaboration with Italian design house Giorgio Armani and luxury beauty brand ESPA, has introduced an exquisite collection of amenity kits and loungewear, elevating the inflight experience for guests flying in The Residence, First, and Business class.

This exclusive partnership brings together the refined elegance of Giorgio Armani with Etihad’s renowned Emirati hospitality, promising an unparalleled journey for passengers.

The new range, set to debut at the end of February, includes bespoke amenity kits for each premium cabin, designer loungewear, and slippers.

For guests in The Residence and First class, a covetable Giorgio Armani and Etihad-branded large folio bag will be presented, available in four collectible colours.

This spacious accessory is not only fashionable but practical, perfect for carrying documents, tablets, or a 13″ laptop post-flight.

In Business class, Giorgio Armani has designed two unisex styles for amenity kits – a clutch bag and a cube. The clutch bag features a contemporary print inspired by the Liwa desert, while the cube boasts a geometric shape for easy packing, ideal for tech products or personal items post-flight.

Packed with luxury ESPA skincare products, plush slippers, eyeshade, earplugs, and a dental kit, these kits cater to the travel wellbeing of Business class passengers.

Luxurious Giorgio Armani and Etihad loungewear and slippers will be gifted to guests flying in The Residence and First class. Crafted with soft, anti-wrinkle fabric, the modern silhouette of the loungewear is inspired by the Abu Dhabi skyline, offering comfort for both relaxation and sleep during and after the flight.

For Economy passengers on flights over six hours, Etihad introduces complimentary tote bags containing inflight essentials, including Beekman hand cream, eyeshade, and earplugs.

The branded tote, available in three collectible designs featuring Etihad’s iconic aircraft liveries, serves as a useful and sustainable gift, as each bag is made from a recycled 500ml PET bottle.

Turky Al Hammadi, Head of Product and Hospitality at Etihad Airways, expressed the airline’s commitment to offering not only convenience and luxury but also sustainable and stylish solutions.

As well as offering convenience, style and luxury inflight, our guests will take home their own co-branded Giorgio Armani amenity bag for use when travelling or at home. These sought-after bags come in collectable colours and styles meaning frequent flyers can build their personal Giorgio Armani collection.

We’re also very proud to introduce a complimentary range of stylish and functional tote bags to our guests on longer flights in Economy. Not only will these bags be a handy gift, but they’ll help us to further reduce single-use plastic.

Etihad Airways continues to redefine the standards of luxury travel, ensuring an unforgettable journey for its discerning clientele.

In conclusion, Etihad Airways invites its passengers to indulge in this elevated inflight experience and build their personal Giorgio Armani collection.

For information on Etihad flights, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.


American Express unveils largest Centurion Lounge at Atlanta Airport

American Express marked Valentine’s Day with the grand opening of its newest Centurion Lounge at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, north America’s busiest airport.

Boasting an impressive 26,000 square feet, the lounge becomes the largest in the Centurion Lounge network.

Centurion Lounge: A 50-year-old olive tree graces the main seating area

Positioned conveniently in Concourse E near gate E11, it offers a wealth of amenities to cater to the discerning needs of frequent flyers.

Audrey Hendley, of American Express, expressed excitement about the strategic location of the new lounge, stating,

The new Centurion Lounge at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will serve travelers in one of the airports our Card Members visit most.

Hendley highlighted key features such as outdoor terraces and ample space for relaxation, emphasising the incorporation of local touches in design and menus.

The lounge’s design draws inspiration from Atlanta’s moniker as “the city in the forest.”

A 50-year-old olive tree graces the main seating area, accompanied by a custom light sculpture representing a forest canopy.

Outdoor terraces, a first for the Centurion Lounge network, provide panoramic views of the airfield. Meticulously landscaped, these areas are equipped with heaters and fans for year-round comfort.

Local artists contribute to the lounge’s aesthetic, with commissioned works including a textural interpretation of the iconic American Express watch dog by Lucha Rodríguez and a multimedia piece by Michi Meko inspired by Georgia’s landscape.

A 60-foot mural by Evan Blackwell Helgeson adorns the interior and exterior spaces, depicting abstracted leaf-like shapes.

Renowned Atlanta-based Chef Deborah VanTrece, known for her local restaurants, brings her take on modern, global soul food to the lounge.

The menu features dishes such as Black Eyed Pea Biryani, Za’atar Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Tomato Chimichurri and Twisted Soul Salad with Strawberry Peppercorn Vinaigrette.

VanTrece’s culinary offerings blend her travel experiences as a former flight attendant with family traditions and fresh, local ingredients. The lounge also provides gluten-free and vegan options, including protein bites, salads, smoothies, and immunity booster juice shots.

She said,

The collaboration with American Express allows me to share my creative vision for food and hospitality with travelers from around the world

The Reserve: a bespoke whiskey bar serving signature cocktails designed by Jim Meehan

A highlight of the new lounge is The Reserve by American Express, the first dedicated whiskey bar in the Centurion Lounge network.

Curated by award-winning mixologist Jim Meehan, the menu features five speciality whiskey cocktails, including Drink a Peach with peach-flavored whiskey and bitters, and Mayme, Tailored, highlighting an American whiskey with ginger beer.

The bar offers a modern take on a classic whiskey bar, connecting to an outdoor lounge area. The lounge also features a fully stocked main bar, offering a selection of over twenty classic and new American whiskeys, along with wines handpicked by sommelier Anthony Giglio.

In addition to the culinary and beverage offerings, the lounge provides signature Centurion Lounge amenities, including dedicated workstations, phone booths, premium restrooms and shower suites.

Multiple seating areas and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi cater to the diverse needs of all types of traveller.

American Express, the credit card issuer with the most extensive airport lounge options, continues to prioritise the travel experience for Card Members.

The Global Lounge Collection™ includes access to 28 Centurion Lounges and over 1,400 lounges worldwide.

Plans for further expansion of the Centurion Lounge Network include new locations at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.

For information about flights serving Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport – or any of the airports served by Amercian Express lounges – please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.


Istanbul Airport unveils visionary plans for 2024: a year of transformative investments

iGA Istanbul Airport, a key global transfer hub, has set its sights on a groundbreaking “Year of Investments” in 2024, pledging a remarkable 656.5 million Euros in strategic developments.

Selahattin Bilgen, CEO at iGA Istanbul Airport, revealed these ambitious plans during the annual press conference, outlining the focus on passenger experience, infrastructure, and sustainability.

Selahattin Bilgen: Istanbul Airport CEO

In a bid to enhance its status as Europe’s Busiest Airport, iGA Istanbul Airport plans to cater to 85 million passengers in 2024, a 12.77% increase from the previous year.

Bilgen highlighted the intention to elevate the number of flights to 532,000, a testament to the airport’s continued growth and influence.

Bilgen underlined iGA’s commitment to its role as a global aviation leader by welcoming eleven new airlines by the end of 2024, bringing the total to an impressive 101.

This move solidifies iGA Istanbul Airport’s position among the top three airports globally in terms of served airline companies.

In a bid to optimise operations, iGA Istanbul Airport is set to implement Europe’s first triple parallel runway system in 2024.

Bilgen emphasised,

We will break new ground among ICAO member nations with our triple independent runway operations, targeting the highest efficiency and capacity.

Underscoring their dedication to sustainable practices, Bilgen announced an extensive investment plan for 2024, with a particular focus on renewable energy. Notably, iGA Istanbul Airport aims to become the world’s first airport to meet all its electricity needs through a 199.32 MWe unlicensed Solar Power Plant in Eskişehir, with an anticipated annual energy production of 340,446,833 kWh/year.

iGA Istanbul Airport’s cargo expansion is noteworthy, with a cargo area now three times the size of Hong Kong Airport’s. The collaboration with FedEx Express and Trendyol adds another dimension to their global reach, positioning iGA Istanbul Airport as a hub connecting Asia and Africa.

In line with its commitment to environmental responsibility, iGA Istanbul Airport is striving for ‘Net Zero CO2 Emissions’ by reducing emissions by 45% in six years.

Bilgen revealed plans to achieve a 73% emission reduction by 2040 and reach Net Zero Emissions by 2050, showcasing the airport’s dedication to sustainable practices.

Highlighting their success in the ACI Airports Carbon Accreditation program, Bilgen noted achievements such as a nearly 11% decrease in energy consumption, a 5% reduction in water footprint, and 35% waste recycling, reinforcing iGA Istanbul Airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Closing the conference, Bilgen expressed confidence in the airport’s continuous improvement in passenger satisfaction. GfK Research Company reported a 89% appreciation rate in 2023, a figure expected to rise further with the completion of ongoing projects.

For further information about flights to, from and via iGA Istanbul Airport contact your Global Travel Account Manager.

Unlock your spring adventure: earn a free night with BWH Hotels’ exclusive offer

This spring, BWH Hotels is rolling out an enticing offer for members of its acclaimed loyalty programme – Best Western Rewards.

From 5 February to 5 May, 2024, BWR members who indulge in a two-night stay at BWH Hotels properties across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean, will unlock a fantastic reward: a complimentary night’s stay.

What’s more, these free nights can be savoured until 25 August, 2024. To seize this opportunity, BWR members must register for the offer before completing their first eligible stay, either via bestwestern.com/rewardsrush1 or directly at the hotel.

Joelle Park, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at BWH Hotels said,

The team is thrilled to kick off 2024 with this exciting promotion and enhance our rewards members’ travel plans for the year. Whether travellers want to experience some of our incredible ski properties or escape the cold weather for a beach, rewards members can be confident they are getting the comfort, service and value they have come to expect from our hotels.

The perks of the BWR program underscore BWH Hotels’ commitment to caring for its guests and fostering unique travel experiences.

The awarded free night can be redeemed at any participating Best Western branded hotel in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It’s important to note that members are entitled to earn only one free night for this promotion.

Inspired by BWH Hotels’ new marketing campaign, “Life’s A Trip,” this year’s BWR spring promotion encourages travellers to embrace life’s imperfections. The campaign acknowledges that life and travel aren’t always smooth sailing, highlighting three emotionally-driven, real-life scenarios that illustrate travel as simultaneously vibrant, messy, draining and beautiful.

It urges BWH Hotels’ guests to earn rewards while embracing the perfectly imperfect nature of travel.

Every stay at a BWH Hotels property earns members points which can be redeemed for various rewards. These include free or discounted room nights at BWH Hotels properties, Mastercard and Amazon gift cards, Best Western gift cards for friends and loved ones, or donations to nonprofit organisations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the American Red Cross and Canadian Red Cross. BWR members can also utilise their accumulated loyalty points to partially pay for their next hotel stay through BWR’s Pay with Points program, providing instant access to discounts on room rates at hotels across North America.

In addition to the spring promotion, BWR members can take advantage of BWH Hotels’ Gift of Travel program, enabling them to gift travel experiences to their loved ones at any BWH Hotels property worldwide. This can be done by transferring rewards points to other BWR members for memorable trips. Members can extend the Gift of Travel in two distinct ways:

  1. Gifting a Free Night: BWR members can gift a one-night stay to immediate family members through the “Gift a Free Night” option in their BWR account.
  2. Redeeming a Best Western Gift Card: BWR members can redeem their points for a Best Western gift card and gift it to friends and family. This option is accessible in the redemption section of their BWR account.

To book stays at BWH properties, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

For more information, visit http://bestwestern.com/rewardsrush1bestwestern.com/rewardsrush1. BWR members must register for the offer prior to the completion of their first eligible stay, either on bestwestern.com/rewardsrush1 or at the hotel directly.