Travellers prioritise speed and convenience; embracing biometrics and off-airport processes

Air travellers continue to prioritise speed and convenience and are increasingly embracing biometrics and off-airport processes to deliver it, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The results of its 2023 Global Passenger Survey (GPS) show passengers “want to spend less time booking and move through the airport faster. And they are increasingly willing to use biometric data to complete more pre-departure tasks off airport to achieve this,” according to Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security.

The GPS results are based on over 8,000 responses from more than 200 countries.

Positive momentum remains in business travel recovery but it may have hit a new ceiling

Business travel in Asia Pacific is poised for significant rebound in 2023 with spending forecast to reach almost USD800 billion by 2027, according to latest observations from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA).

After challenging years due to the pandemic, for 2023 and beyond, business travel in Asia Pacific is forecast for significant growth, with travel spending gaining 41% to USD $567 billion this year ─ and rising to USD800 billion by 2027, says GBTA.

China’s reopening and robust domestic demand will be a big catalyst for the growth. Solid rebound is also anticipated in Japan, South Korea, and Australia, along with the return of international business travel, which is anticipated to boost Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia, its research indicates.

Meliá Hotels to debut ME by Meliá in Asia-Pacific with Guangzhou opening

Meliá Hotels International has signed an agreement with Guangzhou Aocheng Investment Company Ltd to debut the ME by Meliá brand in Asia-Pacific.

The ME Guangzhou will open its doors in 2027 and will “undoubtedly become the ultimate destination for discerning travellers seeking an extraordinary experience in the vibrant city of Guangzhou,” according to the Spanish hotel group.

Companies still realise ‘tangible business value’ from trips to meet with clients or prospects

There remain many unanswered questions on the format of business travel in the post-pandemic world. There are certainly developing trends, but you could argue that these would have developed regardless of the health crisis.

While it may have changed, what is certain though is that business travel remains are relevant as it was before COVID-19 arrived and new research from American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) highlights the continued importance in businesses travelling and people meeting face-to-face.

Hyatt plans Melbourne home for first Hyatt House property in Australia

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has confirmed that an affiliate has entered into an agreement with an affiliate of Holder East Ltd for a Hyatt House hotel in Melbourne, Australia.

Expected to open in 2025, the 97-guestroom Hyatt House South Melbourne will mark the entry of the Hyatt House brand in the country.