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Dave

Fiji Airways leads initiative to produce sustainable aviation fuel from sugarcane by-products

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Fiji Airways has launched a groundbreaking partnership with The Fiji Sugar Corporation Limited (FSC) and Lee Enterprises Consulting (LEC) to explore the feasibility of producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Fiji.

The collaboration, backed by funding from The Asian Development Bank (ADB), could significantly enhance sustainability in aviation and agriculture across the Pacific, while creating new economic prospects for local farmers and communities.

The project’s objective is to determine whether Fiji can sustainably produce SAF using its sugarcane industry by-products, such as molasses, bagasse, sugar, and biomass. The potential for this initiative is vast, not only for Fiji but for the wider region. It aims to create a fully integrated SAF production model that capitalises on Fiji’s agricultural resources and the expertise of international leaders in bioenergy and sustainable fuels.

Sweet success: The Fiji Sugar Corporation Limited is the largest sugar milling company in the South Pacific region and a significant contributor to the Fijian economy

Lee Enterprises Consulting (LEC), renowned globally for its work in biofuels and alternative energy, will lead the study to assess the technical and economic feasibility of converting Fiji’s sugarcane by-products into ethanol-based SAF. This process, known as alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) production, is a proven method of creating sustainable aviation fuel.

LEC’s CEO, Jason White, commented:

This collaboration is a testament to the power of partnerships in addressing global challenges such as climate change. By bringing together industry leaders and local stakeholders, we are not only advancing the production and use of sustainable aviation fuel but also promoting economic resilience and environmental stewardship in the Pacific.

The FSC, the largest sugar milling company in the South Pacific, plays a pivotal role in the project by providing the sugarcane-based feedstocks. These renewable and sustainable sources of biomass form the backbone of the SAF production effort. Meanwhile, Fiji Airways, committed to reducing its carbon footprint, sees this project as a significant step towards transitioning away from fossil fuels. As Fiji’s national carrier, it hopes to set a regional example for sustainable aviation.

Peter Seares, Fiji Airways’ Chief Legal and Sustainability Officer, said:

This is a landmark project for Fiji and the South Pacific Region. The feasibility assessment will lay a foundation for Fiji’s national airline to meet its sustainability goals while utilising local resources that will help to reinvigorate and transform the domestic sugar industry, create new jobs, and improve the lives of Fijians.

This project is poised to deliver numerous benefits. Sugarcane’s rapid growth and high biomass yield make it an ideal feedstock for SAF, offering reduced carbon emissions, high productivity, and energy efficiency. By using sugarcane by-products, the production of SAF could significantly lower aviation’s carbon footprint, further supported by the energy efficiency of sugarcane ethanol production. Bagasse, a by-product of the sugar extraction process, can also be used as a bioenergy source, powering the SAF production itself, thereby minimising overall carbon emissions.

In the long term, this project could position Fiji as a leader in the production and use of SAF across the Pacific. The success of this initiative could serve as a replicable model for other regions, contributing to the global effort to reduce aviation emissions, promote sustainable agriculture, and create economic opportunities for local industries.

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

This project marks an exciting development for UK-based business travellers flying with Fiji Airways, as it signals the airline’s commitment to sustainability. The potential introduction of SAF aligns with the growing demand for greener travel options, benefitting not only Fijian communities but also our clients who are seeking more environmentally conscious choices in business travel.

To book flights on Fiji Airways, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

British Airways invests £9 million in carbon removals to accelerate net zero journey

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British Airways has announced a significant move in its journey to net zero by becoming the largest purchaser of carbon removals in the UK and the largest airline globally to invest in such projects. This comes as part of the airline’s wider strategy to reduce emissions by 2050, focusing heavily on carbon removal credits.

The initiative is part of British Airways’ commitment to accelerate climate action by 2030, and it includes £9 million in carbon removals purchases over the next six years.

One of the innovative projects includes capturing CO2 emissions from whisky distilleries in Scotland and repurposing them into building materials. Other schemes include enhanced rock weathering across multiple UK locations, storing carbon in trees and soils and carbon removal from rivers and oceans using alkaline rock particles in Canada.

Additionally, British Airways is supporting a biochar project in India that empowers female farmers while enhancing soil biodiversity and agricultural productivity.

In partnership with CUR8, a UK-based firm specialising in sourcing high-quality carbon removal credits, British Airways has purchased 33,000 tonnes of carbon removal credits. These projects, though small in comparison to the airline’s overall emissions, are crucial for advancing the carbon removal sector, which is seen as an essential tool in the fight against climate change.

Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, highlighted the importance of the initiative:

Achieving net zero by 2050 requires bold, innovative action today, as well as long-term transformation, and our latest investments in carbon removals reflects this commitment. By supporting pioneering solutions, we’re not only contributing to immediate progress but also laying the groundwork for the large-scale changes needed to meet our climate goals. There is no pathway to net zero for aviation without carbon removals.

British Airways’ partnership with CUR8 and other companies is part of the airline’s strategy to source carbon removal solutions from both nature and engineered technologies. These initiatives complement other sustainability efforts, such as investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), flying more fuel-efficient aircraft and improving operational efficiency on the ground, where more than 90% of vehicles and equipment at Heathrow are now zero emissions or hybrid.

As part of its commitment to innovation, British Airways has also partnered with The Earthshot Prize, founded by Prince William, to discover and support scalable climate solutions. This partnership aims to highlight and invest in projects ranging from alternative aviation fuels to reducing single-use plastics.

The airline has previously worked with Earthshot Prize winner LanzaTech, which focuses on sustainable aviation fuel technology.

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

For UK-based business travellers, British Airways’ pioneering efforts in carbon removal will make a tangible difference in reducing the environmental impact of air travel. This commitment not only supports the development of a vital market but also offers reassurance to businesses that their travel is aligned with a responsible, sustainable future.

Airlines like British Airways are forging ahead in the battle to protect the environment. And business travellers in the UK can play their part by participating in the GTM Carbon Offset Programme.

British Airways’ ambitious approach, including its focus on carbon removal projects and partnerships with innovators like The Earthshot Prize, marks a crucial step towards sustainable aviation. Roughly one third of the airline’s emissions reductions by 2050 will come from carbon removals, underlining the significance of these efforts in tackling climate change.

For more information on how this initiative could impact your business travel plans, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

London Gatwick firefighters tackle 110 floors to support vital local charities

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Firefighters from the London Gatwick Airport Fire and Rescue Service successfully completed a challenging stair climb event, raising £2,000 for the Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) and the Fire Fighters Charity.

This inspiring initiative saw participants simulate the ascent of 110 floors in a high-rise building by climbing the central staircase in Gatwick’s South Terminal departure lounge, all while carrying a hefty 23kg of full firefighting gear, including breathing apparatus.

As the firefighters ascended and descended, passengers at the airport had the opportunity to learn more about the charities’ vital work and the impact of the funds raised.

Donations are still being accepted through the official fundraising page, underscoring the community’s ongoing support for these essential services.

Melanie Wrightson, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at London Gatwick, expressed pride in the firefighters’ achievement:

We are incredibly proud of our firefighters for completing such a demanding challenge in support of these two remarkable charities. Both KSS and the Fire Fighters Charity provide vital, life-saving services to our community, and the funds raised will help ensure they can continue their invaluable work.

KSS, one of Gatwick’s official charity partners, operates helicopters that respond to over 3,300 emergencies annually across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex.

The Fire Fighters Charity supports both active and retired fire service personnel and their families, offering face-to-face assistance at its three centres, including one in Littlehampton.

In addition to the remarkable efforts of the firefighters, Gatwick Airport has demonstrated its commitment to local communities by making a total of £250,000 available for worthy causes through the Gatwick Airport Community Trust this year. Furthermore, the London Gatwick Foundation Fund is set to distribute an additional £100,000 in its third round of grant funding in November, bringing the total available funding for 2024 to an impressive £300,000.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the significance of such initiatives for UK-based business travellers, stating,

Supporting local charities not only strengthens community ties but also highlights the importance of corporate responsibility. Business travellers can take pride in knowing that their travels contribute to positive social impact.

For information about flights from London’s second airport, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Kimpton announces new luxury hotel at Rockefeller Center, ideal for UK business travellers

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Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury portfolio, has announced plans to open a new boutique luxury hotel in New York City. Kimpton Rockefeller Center, set to open in late 2025, will be the brand’s third property in the city, offering business travellers a new stylish option in the heart of Manhattan.

Located steps away from the iconic Rockefeller Center, the 33-storey hotel will feature 529 guest rooms with panoramic views of the New York skyline. Developed in partnership with Extell Development Company, the hotel will be designed by SLCE Architects and INC Architecture & Design. In addition to its prime location, the hotel will boast two full-service restaurants, a rooftop bar, a lobby lounge, and social spaces, perfect for business and leisure travellers alike. The hotel will also cater to corporate needs with two dedicated meeting spaces, a fitness centre, and Kimpton’s well-known pet-friendly policies.

Leanne Harwood, SVP, Managing Director for Luxury & Lifestyle Americas at IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed her enthusiasm, saying:

New York City has always been one of the world’s most exciting destinations, and we’re thrilled to be expanding Kimpton’s presence in this important market with Extell Development Company. With its unparalleled location in the centre of the city, Kimpton Rockefeller Center will welcome guests with an inspiring boutique luxury setting while opening the door to the endless expansive experiences the destination has to offer.

Situated on 48th Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Kimpton Rockefeller Center will provide an ideal base for business travellers looking to explore New York’s iconic landmarks, such as Radio City Music Hall, Central Park, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. For business visitors, the hotel’s proximity to premier shopping locations on Fifth and Madison Avenues and its easy access to New York’s transportation network make it an ideal choice for seamless travel around the city.

Elysa Goldman, Senior Vice President, Development at Extell Development Company, highlighted the collaboration with Kimpton, stating,

We are thrilled to be working with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants… Extell and IHG are creating what will be one of the finest hotels with a robust food and beverage programme as well as iconic views of Rockefeller Center and the city skyline in one of New York City’s most visited neighbourhoods.

Kimpton’s global expansion continues, with 75 hotels currently open and an additional 57 planned across destinations like Riviera Maya, Lisbon, Riyadh, and Brisbane. Kimpton Rockefeller Center joins Kimpton Hotel Theta and Kimpton Hotel Eventi in offering UK business travellers even more accommodation options in the city.

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

The announcement of Kimpton Rockefeller Center is great news for UK-based business travellers. Its central location, combined with luxury amenities, will provide a perfect base for corporate travellers visiting New York. We are excited to offer our clients another high-quality option for their business travel needs in this bustling city – one of the most popular destinations for Global Travel Management customers.

For more information on how Kimpton Rockefeller Center can enhance your next business trip to New York, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Finnair marks 70 years of London-Helsinki flights with increased daily UK departures

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Celebrating 70 years of connecting London and Helsinki, Finnair has marked a significant milestone in its history this September.

On Sunday, 1st September, Finnair commemorated seven decades since launching its London-Helsinki route in 1954.

Originally, the route connected London and Helsinki via Düsseldorf and Copenhagen, with a total journey time of around eight hours. At that time, the flight operated three times per week, and a return ticket cost £67.50, the equivalent of approximately £1,900 today.

Fast forward 70 years, and Finnair is preparing to increase its frequency from four to six daily flights between London Heathrow and Helsinki, with return tickets starting from as little as £160.

Despite all the changes over the years, one thing has remained constant: the importance of London in Finnair’s route network and the significance of the UK market for the airline.

Today, around 2,000 passengers daily either start their journey from London, connect at Heathrow, or return to the UK from global destinations with Finnair.

Anssi Partanen: proud to celebrate

For the upcoming winter season, Finnair is also reinstating its Manchester route to its full capacity, with double daily departures. Additionally, the Edinburgh-Helsinki route will operate seven times a week, with double daily flights on Thursdays and no flights on Saturdays.

Anssi Partanen, UK, Ireland and Benelux Market Director of Finnair said,

I am proud to be able to celebrate the long history of our London route.

You might remember that the direct Manchester-Helsinki flights turned 30 last spring and Finnair celebrated its centenary late last year – so there really is a lot to be proud of!

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

Finnair’s increased frequency on the London-Helsinki route offers even greater convenience and flexibility for UK-based business travellers. With more daily departures, business travellers can better tailor their travel plans to meet their specific needs, whether they are attending meetings, conferences, or visiting clients.

For more information on how these changes could benefit your business travel plans, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Aspiring models given a chance to shine as Heathrow becomes a fashion hub

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Aspiring models passing through Heathrow Airport have been given a unique opportunity to launch their careers in the fashion industry, thanks to a new partnership with the inclusive model agency, The MiLK Collective.

In the lead-up to London Fashion Week, Heathrow Airport is playing host to scouts from The MiLK Collective, who are on the lookout for new faces among the record 1.75 million passengers expected to travel through the airport this season.

Successful candidates will have the chance to sign an exclusive contract with the agency for at least a year, joining a prestigious roster of models who have graced the covers of top fashion magazines like Vogue and worked with the most sought-after fashion brands.

Fashion Unveiled: Models walk the runway at Heathrow

The initiative kicked off with a surprise fashion show at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 Arrivals, where four of The MiLK Collective’s models showcased high fashion looks alongside travel essentials such as eye masks and suitcases. Onlookers waiting for their loved ones became an impromptu audience on the ‘front row’, or ‘FROW’, while passengers passing through the terminal joined the spectacle, displaying a variety of styles from casual airport attire to vintage dresses.

The MiLK Collective, known for its focus on diversity and challenging industry conventions, is looking for individuals of any age who have a distinct personality and style.

Talent Search: Model scouts assess arriving travellers

Scouts will return to Terminal 5 on Friday, 13th September, offering more passengers the chance to be discovered during Fashion Week, one of the busiest times for Heathrow, which has already seen over 30 million passengers since June.

Reflecting on the airport’s role in the fashion industry, Fraser Brown, Retail Director at Heathrow, said:

London Fashion Week is one of the UK’s most iconic cultural events, and industry leaders, designers, and models will soon be passing through our doors to attend. But the impact of the UK fashion industry goes far beyond just one week or one city.

It’s a powerhouse for the British economy, driving billions in value and sharing the work of creatives from all over Britain with the world – and we’re proud that Heathrow plays a unique role within this sector.

We’re excited to partner with The MiLK Collective to give aspiring models a chance to ‘take off’ right here at the airport.

The partnership follows a long tradition of models being discovered in airports, such as Kate Moss, who was famously scouted at New York’s JFK airport in 1988.

Anna Shillinglaw, Founder and Managing Director at The MiLK Collective, noted:

You can find a huge mix of people at airports, and so many who would be brilliant models. I’ve personally scouted passengers waiting for a flight or checking in a bag on recent trips abroad. Airport fashion is also a very unique thing.

Every time I’m at the airport I’ll see a mix of wonderful outfits that people choose to travel in, and it’s those individual looks and personalities that we’ll be looking out for as passengers take to the Heathrow runway. We’re expecting to see thousands of people in total and I can’t wait to see who eventually makes it onto our books.

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

For UK-based business travellers, this partnership between Heathrow and The MiLK Collective presents an exciting opportunity to see fashion and business travel intersect in a unique way. It’s not just a chance to experience the vibrancy of London Fashion Week but also a moment to witness the innovation and diversity that the UK fashion industry brings to the world stage.

Stylish Arrival: Model showcases fashion on the runway

With thousands of fashion executives, designers, and brands set to arrive from global destinations like Milan, Paris, New York, Shanghai, and Dubai, the collaboration between Heathrow and The MiLK Collective highlights the airport’s pivotal role in the fashion industry’s global ecosystem.

For information about flights from Heathrow or the best ways to reach the airport, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

‘A Sunflower Sojourn’ transforms Changi Airport with more than 5,000 sunflowers

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Changi Airport has transformed into a floral spectacle with its first-ever flower-themed showcase, ‘A Sunflower Sojourn’, featuring over 5,000 sunflowers in more than 20 locations across all four terminals until 30th September.

The showcase, the largest of its kind ever held in an airport, includes stunning displays of sunflowers from classic bright yellow varieties like ‘Sunrise’ to rare breeds such as the red and yellow ‘Florenza’ and pastel pink ‘Strawberry Blonde’.

These blooms, meticulously cultivated in Changi Airport’s own plant nursery, are exhibited both indoors and outdoors, extending to Hub & Spoke.

Sunflower Display: Vibrant blooms across terminals.
Pics: Changi Airport Group

Visitors can enjoy captivating floral displays at the Departure Halls of Terminals 2 and 3, where sunflower topiary sculptures tower at five and eight metres tall, respectively.

This celebration of sunflowers is particularly significant for Changi Airport, which has been associated with these radiant flowers since the opening of the Sunflower Garden at Terminal 2 in 2002.

Mr Ang Siew Min, Senior Vice President of Airport Operations Development, Changi Airport Group said

Our lush gardens at Changi Airport have always been more than just a feature – they are an experience that embodies the warmth and hospitality of our airport.

We are thrilled to unveil this vibrant Sunflower Sojourn display as an extension of the Sunflower Garden to other parts of the airport.

Beyond their bright and cheerful appeal, sunflowers have been significant in various cultural, artistic, and ecological contexts. Visitors can learn about their influence on art, from poetry and painting to their vital role in the ecosystem and their diverse human uses, such as in agriculture, where sunflower seeds are an essential crop. Used for animal feed, snacks and the production of sunflower oil, sunflowers have remained a valuable resource for over 3,000 years.

Additionally, Changi Airport offers exclusive sunflower-themed merchandise, including the limited-edition Buddy bear in a sunflower outfit, pens, coasters, and more, available at Terminal 3’s Main Event Outpost and themed vending machines. Transit passengers can also participate in sunflower-themed activities, such as paper sunflower-making workshops and temporary tattoo stickers, scheduled over select weekends in Terminals 1 and 3.

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

This unique showcase at Changi Airport offers UK-based business travellers a refreshing and memorable experience during their journey. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy something extraordinary while travelling, reflecting Changi’s commitment to customer delight.

For those visiting Hub & Spoke, sunflower-inspired dishes, including sunflower-flavoured soft-serve yoghurt and sunflower butter toast, are also available, offering a delightful treat to complement the floral displays.

If you plan to experience ‘A Sunflower Sojourn’ at Changi Airport, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

IHG Hotels & Resorts opens first Hotel Indigo Resort in the Middle East at Oman’s Jabal Akhdar

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IHG Hotels & Resorts has launched its first Hotel Indigo resort in the Middle East with the opening of the Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa in Oman, offering UK-based business travellers a unique destination for combining business with leisure in an extraordinary setting.

Situated 2,000 metres above sea level in the majestic Jabal Akhdar range, the new resort promises a perfect blend of modern luxury and authentic Omani experiences, just a two-hour drive from Muscat or a six-hour drive from Dubai.

Green Mountain: the hotel’s range of rejuvenating treatments draw inspiration from ancient Omani traditions and contemporary techniques

Jabal Akhdar, or the “Green Mountain” in Arabic, is renowned for its spectacular landscapes, terraced gardens, ancient villages, and dramatic canyons.

The Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa boasts 173 tastefully designed rooms, suites, and chalets, each providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

This new property is more than just a place to stay; it is a gateway for business travellers to immerse themselves in the local culture, reconnect with nature, and rejuvenate in a serene environment.

James Reeves, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa, highlights the essence of the hotel’s appeal:

Our team has poured their heart and soul into creating a place that captures the very essence of Jabal Akhdar. Every detail and every experience have been carefully curated to immerse guests in the story of this remarkable destination, connect with the local culture and create memories that will stay long after you leave. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the magic of this place. We can’t wait to welcome guests to our neighbourhood and share the wonders of Jabal Akhdar.

The design of the resort reflects the colours and textures of the surrounding mountains and incorporates elements of Omani heritage, creating a unique environment that brings to life the stories of the local communities.

Business travellers can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking in the terraced gardens and exploring historic villages to savouring authentic Omani cuisine at the resort’s three distinctive dining venues. These include the Vue Rooftop & Lounge, the highest rooftop in the Middle East, offering panoramic canyon views and a selection of craft cocktails and signature dishes; Wadi Habib, which serves traditional Omani dishes in a warm setting; and Zaatar, an all-day dining option perfect for socialising with fellow travellers.

For those looking to unwind, the resort’s Jala Spa & Wellness offers a range of rejuvenating treatments inspired by ancient Omani traditions, featuring Himalayan salt rooms, thermal zones, and vitality pools. This wellness sanctuary provides an ideal escape for business travellers to recharge, surrounded by the pure air and natural beauty of the Green Mountain.

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

The Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa is a fantastic new option for UK-based business travellers looking to extend their business trips with some leisure time. With its stunning location, unique design, and exceptional wellness facilities, it offers an opportunity to combine work with relaxation in one of the Middle East’s most captivating destinations.

The Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa is part of IHG’s Luxury and Lifestyle portfolio and is the group’s first Hotel Indigo property in the region. Known globally for capturing the spirit of local neighbourhoods, Hotel Indigo has over 158 hotels worldwide and a further 133 in the pipeline. The Jabal Akhdar property begins welcoming guests in September 2024.

For more information about incorporating the Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa into your next business trip, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

London City Airport gains approval to boost passenger capacity to 9 million annually

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The UK Government has approved London City Airport’s plans to increase its annual passenger cap from 6.5 million to 9 million, alongside allowing three additional flights in the first half-hour of weekday operations, providing greater capacity and convenience for business travellers.

However, proposals to extend the airport’s Saturday afternoon operating hours have been rejected.

The increase in the passenger cap is set to enhance London City Airport’s role as a vital hub for business travel, offering more options and flexibility for UK-based business travellers.

This move does not involve an increase in the number of annual flights or any additional infrastructure but is focused on optimising current operations. The approval also aligns with London City’s commitment to environmental responsibility by allowing only cleaner, quieter, next-generation aircraft during extended operating periods—a first for a UK airport.

Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, expressed mixed reactions to the decision:

While we welcome the approval to increase our passenger numbers, we are disappointed with the Government’s decision to reject our proposal to fly from 12:30pm to 6:30pm on Saturday afternoons.” She added, “As the Government has recognised in its decision, rejecting our request to extend our Saturday afternoon operating hours will slow down airlines bringing cleaner, quieter next generation aircraft to the airport. Local residents would have had the added benefit of these aircraft operating at the airport throughout the week, not just in the extended operating hours.

The proposal to extend operating hours on Saturday afternoons aimed to provide more choice and flexibility for passengers, including business travellers who rely on weekend flights. The current closure time of 12:30pm on Saturdays will remain unchanged following the decision. The airport had sought a new closing time of 6:30pm after an extensive consultation process but was ultimately unsuccessful.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, highlighted the benefits of this decision for business travellers:

The increase in passenger capacity at London City Airport is a welcome development for UK-based business travellers. It ensures more flight options during the week, helping to accommodate the needs of busy professionals who rely on efficient and flexible travel schedules. London City’s commitment to deploying quieter, next-generation aircraft is an added advantage for our clients who prioritise sustainability in their business travel.

The decision to reject the Saturday afternoon extension means airlines may face challenges in introducing the latest, most efficient aircraft into service at London City Airport. Nevertheless, the increase in the passenger cap is expected to bring considerable benefits to business travellers seeking better connectivity and convenience.

For more information on how these changes might affect your business travel plans, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Western Sydney International Airport secures Singapore Airlines as first international carrier

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Western Sydney International Airport has secured its first international airline, with Singapore Airlines confirming its intention to operate at Sydney’s new 24-hour airport.

This milestone marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between Western Sydney Airport and the Skytrax certified 5-Star Airline, as commercial discussions continue regarding the airline’s future operations at Australia’s first greenfield airport in more than fifty years.

Simon Hickey, CEO of Western Sydney International Airport, highlighted the significance of this arrangement, emphasising the airport’s unique scheduling opportunities:

This inaugural international airline arrangement is a fantastic milestone for Western Sydney International Airport and reflects the positive response we’ve had from airlines, especially in regard to the unprecedented opportunities our 24-hour capability unlocks.

Hickey also pointed out the advantages for business travellers, noting that the airport’s late-night departure capacity could enable Singapore Airlines passengers to complete a full day’s work in Sydney, take an overnight flight, and arrive in Singapore in time for a morning meeting.

Additionally, these late-night departures will offer passengers more efficient transit options via Singapore’s award-winning Changi Airport, connecting them to one of the 125 destinations served by the Singapore Airlines Group. The airport’s commitment to a smooth and simple customer experience, supported by the latest technology, has been another key factor in attracting Singapore Airlines.

Hickey explained,

Our combined international and domestic terminal will give Singapore Airlines customers a seamless transfer experience, while our state-of-the-art baggage system and efficient design, including five-minute taxi times on the tarmac, means passengers will be able to get on their flight faster and relax and enjoy the award-winning service on board

The new airport, located in Western Sydney’s culturally diverse region, home to more than 150 different ancestries, will also open up new travel opportunities for local residents who frequently visit family or friends overseas. With the airport construction now more than 80 per cent complete, including the recent terminal roof installation, Hickey expressed excitement about the progress and the future experience for passengers flying from WSI in late 2026.

Global Travel Management Sales Director Paul Baker said,

This new partnership between Western Sydney International Airport and Singapore Airlines is great news for UK-based business travellers. It opens up more flexible travel options, allowing our clients to maximise their productivity with convenient late-night departures and seamless connections through Singapore’s Changi Airport. This development will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for our customers who do business in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.

Singapore Airlines Regional Vice President South West Pacific, Louis Arul, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to enhancing network connectivity and providing additional services for Australia, a major market for the Singapore Airlines Group.

This agreement reflects our commitment to enhancing network connectivity for travellers to and from Sydney, and providing additional services for Australia,” said Mr Arul. He also highlighted the unique opportunity to collaborate with a greenfield airport to set a new standard for customer experience throughout the airport ecosystem.

This agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2023, which set the framework for exploring the airport’s future functionality, customer experience, sustainability, operational efficiency, and mutual commercial opportunities. Western Sydney International Airport is on track to commence domestic, international, and air cargo services by late 2026.

For more information on how this development could impact your business travel, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.