Posts

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

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

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

Gatwick and GWR join forces to enhance rail connections for business travellers

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London Gatwick and Great Western Railway (GWR) have formed a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the North Downs Line, which connects the airport to Surrey, Reading, and the Thames Valley. The announcement, made during London Gatwick’s annual Transport Forum, signals a commitment to improving station facilities, services, and passenger experience along this key route.

This development is particularly significant for UK-based business travellers, many of whom rely on efficient rail connections to reach meetings, conferences, and workplaces across the region. Enhancing the North Downs Line will not only improve connectivity but also contribute to more sustainable travel options, aligning with growing corporate priorities for reducing carbon footprints during business trips.

The partnership focuses on fostering collaboration between London Gatwick and GWR to promote service development, implement station improvements, and engage with local communities. This joint effort supports London Gatwick’s Decade of Change sustainability initiative, which aims to increase public transport usage to 60% by 2030, including zero and ultra-low emission journeys. Enhanced rail connections through this partnership will also bolster air-to-rail integration, further reinforcing London Gatwick’s role as a major multimodal transport hub.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer of London Gatwick, emphasised the broader benefits of this collaboration, stating:

The Great Western Railway service to Reading is already a vital service for London Gatwick’s passengers and colleagues, not to mention the local communities along the North Downs Line. This partnership provides the framework for an even more ambitious and collaborative approach to developing air-to-rail services at London Gatwick, and we are delighted to continue this journey with the GWR team. As we look to grow through our Northern Runway Project, it is imperative we continue improving our transport options for passengers and local communities.

Similarly, Tom Pierpoint, Commercial Development Director of GWR, highlighted the value of the North Downs Line and the new partnership:

Great Western Railway recognises that the rail industry plays a key role in driving economic growth, supporting communities, and enabling our customers to travel for a multitude of purposes. Creating this partnership provides further energy to keep delivering for our communities in a new and innovative way that paves the way for great local and regional outcomes.

For UK-based business travellers, the improved connectivity from the North Downs Line will simplify access to the airport and surrounding regions, enhancing both domestic and international travel experiences. The partnership also underscores the importance of sustainable travel in the business sector, reflecting the growing demand for eco-conscious corporate policies.

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

This partnership between London Gatwick and GWR is fantastic news for UK-based business travellers. Enhanced rail connections mean greater convenience, time savings, and more sustainable travel options, which are increasingly important to our clients. We’re excited to see the benefits this collaboration will deliver.

For more information about flights from Gatwick or GWR journeys, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.

Dave

New digital 3D maps help passengers navigate key stations in the South East with ease

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Three-dimensional digital maps have been introduced by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) to assist passengers, particularly those with disabilities, in navigating key stations across London, Sussex and Bedfordshire with greater ease and confidence.

This innovative project, which is currently being trialled at ten stations, enables passengers to plan their journey in advance using interactive 3D maps.

Gatwick Airport: the new 3D station plan of the rail station at LGW

Available on mobile phones and computers, these maps highlight accessible routes, staircases, lifts and ticket gates, providing a detailed, aerial view of the stations. This ensures that passengers can plan their route from street level to their seat before even arriving at the station.

The initiative will be particularly useful for business travellers who often rely on train stations as part of their busy schedules, ensuring a smoother and more efficient journey.

Luton Parkway: Maps showing footbridge, platform and forecourt levels

For individuals with access needs, these maps offer a valuable resource in making travel less stressful and more manageable, helping them to navigate stations with confidence and independence.

Carl Martin, Accessibility Lead at Govia Thameslink Railway, commented:

We understand that for some of our customers, visiting a new station can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s finding essential facilities or navigating between platforms, our goal is to ensure everyone can travel independently and with confidence, regardless of their access needs. We’re really pleased to introduce these new maps as part of our commitment to create a more inclusive and accessible railway. Together with other helpful guides on the assisted travel pages of our websites, they’ll help people plan a smooth and stress-free journey.

Currently, bird’s-eye-view maps are available for all stations served by GTR. However, feedback has highlighted areas for improvement, as some maps were not to scale or difficult to read, especially at larger, more complex stations. The new 3D diagrams address these issues by colour-coding accessible routes and clearly showing different station levels. These enhanced maps can be accessed through National Rail Enquiries or directly via the websites of GTR’s train brands.

The first ten stations to feature these new 3D maps are:

  • Brighton
  • City Thameslink
  • Denmark Hill
  • East Croydon
  • Elephant & Castle
  • Finsbury Park
  • Gatwick Airport
  • London Blackfriars
  • Luton Airport Parkway
  • Peckham Rye

These stations were selected based on their high footfall and complex layouts, such as multiple levels or entrances. Denmark Hill, for instance, was chosen due to its proximity to King’s College Hospital, an important factor for many passengers with specific accessibility needs.

If the trial proves successful, there is the potential for more stations to be added to the scheme, further enhancing the accessibility of the rail network for all passengers.

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

For UK-based business travellers, these new 3D maps are a game-changer. Having a tool that helps with the accessibility and navigation of stations across London and the South East will be invaluable for those who travel frequently, especially when managing time-sensitive trips. This initiative not only supports the needs of disabled passengers but also helps business travellers save time and reduce stress on their journeys.

For information on journeys on GTR routes, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

New travel podcast with Clara Amfo explores inspiring travel stories with top guests

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A brand-new podcast, Routes with Clara Amfo, is launching in collaboration with LNER on November 7, 2024, bringing listeners engaging travel stories and life experiences from notable guests including Tom Grennan, Candice Brathwaite, Babatunde Aleshe, and Arielle Free.

For UK-based business travellers, especially those familiar with journeys along the LNER East Coast Mainline, Routes offers a refreshing take on travel. Instead of the usual travel tips, Clara and her guests dive into the meaningful, personal and sometimes humorous side of travel, sharing moments that have influenced their lives, careers and outlooks.

This podcast’s blend of inspiration and relatability could resonate with business travellers who often find unique meaning in their journeys, whether domestic or international.

The podcast’s first episode features musician Tom Grennan, who reflects on transformative travel moments, from a childhood trip at age nine to discovering his passion for music during a visit to London with his mother.

New podcast: From first trips to unforgettable adventures, Routes with Clara Amfo takes listeners on a journey through travel memories that shaped each guest

In each episode, Clara Amfo creates a space for her guests to share their biggest travel moments, unexpected encounters, and even the annoyances they’ve encountered along the way.

Commenting on the podcast, Clara Amfo said,

I’m delighted to team up with LNER for the Routes podcast, where we get into the fun, personal and sometimes awkward side of travel! Travel has always been my way of embracing new experiences, and I love exploring during work and in my downtime. We have a great lineup of guests who all bring their unique and universal takes on what it is to step outside of their usual surroundings, that will hopefully inspire our listeners to do the same!

LNER’s Communications Director, Stuart Thomas, added,

I’m so excited about the launch of Routes with Clara Amfo, with a stellar guest list and a brilliant host. There’s nothing better than relaxing on one of our trains and listening to a podcast – and I know this one is going straight to the top of my list.

As well as being available through all the usual podcast channels, Routes will be available directly onboard LNER services using a seat-back QR code.

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

It’s exciting to see the launch of Routes, a podcast that offers an entertaining and insightful look at what travel can mean to people from all walks of life. Business travellers who listen to Clara’s conversations are likely to find fresh inspiration and may even see parallels with their own travel experiences, whether they’re embarking on new opportunities or finding motivation during their journeys.

Routes with Clara Amfo will be available on all major podcast platforms and directly on LNER trains, offering easy access to the series for both regular and occasional travellers.

For information about LNER journeys, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Countdown to luxury: Lufthansa’s Allegris First Class officially launches on 9 November

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Lufthansa is set to revolutionise the long-haul travel experience with the launch of its new Allegris First Class, featuring state-of-the-art individual suites, which will take to the skies for the first time on scheduled flights to Bangalore and Mumbai starting on 9 and 15 November, respectively.

This exciting development is sure to capture the attention of UK-based business travellers who are seeking unparalleled comfort and innovation during their journeys.

The Allegris First Class represents a significant upgrade in luxury travel, providing a unique offering that enhances the business travel experience.

With features such as almost one-metre-wide seats that can be heated or cooled to suit individual preferences, guests will enjoy a level of comfort previously unseen in commercial aviation.

The separate suites are equipped with floor-to-ceiling walls, lockable doors, large tables, expansive screens and wireless over-ear headphones, ensuring an elevated sense of privacy and personal space.

Lufthansa Allegris: Passengers can warm or cool their nearly one-meter-wide seats in the suite according to their personal needs and connect their own mobile device to the entertainment system.

A personal wardrobe within the suite adds convenience, allowing travellers to change comfortably and keep their belongings organised. The Suite Plus option further enhances the experience by enabling travellers to share the suite with a partner, combining privacy with the joy of travelling together.

Allegris service: the crew serves the gourmet menu at a time requested by the passenger.

In a related highlight, Lufthansa has also been recognised with the APEX Innovation Award for the world’s best in-flight entertainment innovation for 2024.

This award reflects the airline’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through cutting-edge technology. In collaboration with Meta and MSM.Digital, Lufthansa is testing mixed reality technologies to elevate in-flight entertainment.

Business Class guests on Allegris-equipped flights will have exclusive access to the latest generation of VR headsets, offering a selection of immersive cinema-style movies, engaging VR 360-degree travel podcasts, interactive games, and soothing relaxation exercises.

As Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, notes,

The introduction of Lufthansa’s Allegris First Class is a game-changer for UK-based business travellers, providing them with an extraordinary travel experience that prioritises comfort and innovation.” This news underscores Lufthansa’s dedication to meeting the needs of its most loyal guests while enhancing the overall travel experience.

As the new First Class gradually becomes available, passengers can expect targeted upgrades and bookings, ensuring they can enjoy this luxurious service as soon as it is fully operational.

For those interested in further details about this exciting development or how it may enhance their business travel, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager for more information.

Dave

Marriott Bonvoy connects Manchester United fans with unforgettable experiences at Old Trafford

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Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel programme from Marriott International, is offering Manchester United fans extraordinary opportunities throughout the 2024-2025 season, including the chance to play on the iconic Old Trafford pitch, enjoy stadium sleepovers, and even travel alongside the team.

These exclusive experiences can be accessed through Marriott Bonvoy Moments, where fans can bid with points or enter a sweepstakes for an unforgettable matchday experience.

This exciting partnership is particularly relevant for Global Travel Management customers, as it highlights the potential for unique and tailored travel experiences that enhance corporate trips. By understanding such offerings, business travellers can combine their professional journeys with leisure opportunities that resonate with their personal passions, thereby creating a more enriching travel experience.

As part of the season’s offerings, Marriott Bonvoy and Manchester United have announced a sweepstakes where ten lucky fans and a guest will have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to play at Old Trafford. Winners will enjoy a weekend mimicking the life of a Manchester United star, featuring a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, an exclusive dinner with club legends, and hospitality at the Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly. The experience also includes round-trip flights to Manchester, accommodations, and tickets to a Men’s match, with entries open until 31 March 2025, at ManUtd.com/MarriottBonvoyCompetition.

In their sixth year of partnership, Marriott Bonvoy will provide a variety of exclusive Moments that fans can redeem using points accrued from travel and everyday activities. Highlights include:

  • Travel Like the Team: Fans can join Manchester United on away matches to Plzeň and Bucharest, enjoying pre-match hospitality and match tickets.
  • Seat of Dreams: Experience a VIP matchday alongside a club legend at Old Trafford, complete with complimentary food and a pre-match Q&A.
  • Suite of Dreams: An overnight stay at Old Trafford’s Marriott Hotels “Suite of Dreams”, offering unique experiences like kit preparation and dining with a legend.
  • Mascot Experience: Young fans can take the pitch with the first team, watching the match from general admission seats, alongside a stay at the Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel.
  • M Club Suite: VIP seating with complimentary hospitality in the exclusive M Club Suite during matches.
  • Ambassadors’ Lounge: Access to VIP tickets and complimentary hospitality at Old Trafford with legends.
  • Play on the Pitch: Members can bid points for a chance to play at Old Trafford, coached by Manchester United legends.

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

This partnership illustrates the growing trend of blending business travel with unique leisure experiences, allowing UK-based travellers to make the most of their trips and fulfil their passions.

In addition to these offerings, fans can explore The Lobby Phone installation at the new Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly. This unique audio experience lets guests hear never-before-told stories from club legends and current players, further connecting them with Manchester United’s rich history.

To discover more about these exciting opportunities and how they can enhance your travel experience, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.