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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dave

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dave

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lahiru Ranasinghe, Director of Sustainability at easyJet, said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dave

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Schiphol unveils newly expanded Lounge 1, improving experience for European flights

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Schiphol Airport has opened a newly expanded section of Lounge 1, adding 5,000 square metres of space to enhance the experience for passengers flying within Europe. This newly developed area represents a key milestone in Schiphol’s extensive redevelopment, aimed at creating a more spacious, modern, and comfortable environment for travellers.

This addition will be of particular interest to Global Travel Management customers who travel frequently through Schiphol, as the added space and planned amenities promise a smoother, more comfortable journey through one of Europe’s busiest airports. Over the next few months, further enhancements will be added to Lounge 1, including new dining establishments and retail options, all designed to provide a higher-quality experience for travellers and to better meet future demand.

With a total of over 20,000 square metres now under redevelopment in Lounge 1, Schiphol is focusing on making the airport not only more spacious but also more sustainable. By transforming an existing car park and parts of four buildings, Schiphol has created a large, bright plaza filled with natural light, seating areas, and even three tall trees, designed to bring a calm and relaxing atmosphere to the bustling airport. Sustainable materials have also been prioritised in the construction, including bamboo wall panels and seating crafted from grass cut at the airport itself.

Sybren Hahn, Schiphol’s Executive Director of Infrastructure, remarked,

The finished plaza is a new part of Schiphol to be proud of, and an important step in the redevelopment of the airport. It is the transformation of the oldest part of our airport into a modern, bright space, while also replacing fundamental parts. Literally and figuratively a strong piece of work. This new area sets a new standard for how we want to welcome passengers, with more space, comfort and modern facilities.

The opening of this expanded lounge area is part of Schiphol’s ambitious investment plan to make the airport “future-proof” over the next five years, with an investment of 6 billion euros. In addition to Lounge 1, the programme includes various large and small infrastructure projects, including the renewal of Pier C and Lounge 2. These investments aim to improve the overall quality, infrastructure, and working conditions at Schiphol for both passengers and airlines, as the airport aims to meet rising demand with an emphasis on quality and experience.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the value of the new expansion:

This enhancement at Schiphol demonstrates their commitment to improving the travel experience for UK-based business travellers, many of whom rely on Schiphol as a key hub. The added space and forthcoming amenities will undoubtedly ease transit times, provide greater comfort, and offer a better overall experience for our clients who regularly travel across Europe.

For further information on how these developments at Schiphol may benefit your business travel, 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.