Travel Weekly Group Ltd

🏆 Virtual Interlining (VI) is revolutionizing travel by allowing the combination of flights from different airlines without formal agreements. Currently, 55 million passengers self-connect annually, a number expected to double in five years due to demand for affordable travel and the growth of low-cost carriers (LCCs). PKFARE, a travel product aggregator, is testing a VI product with key clients, offering competitive rates up to 10% less than rivals, access to approximately 600 more destinations, and double the flight options. The company aims to solve issues like missed connections by automating refunds and reissuing tickets. PKFARE leverages over 10 years of experience, 600+ bookable airline contents, and an optimized algorithm for the best deals.

🏨 SITA and Orange Business have extended their partnership, in place since 2001, for an additional five years to explore AI-driven efficiencies, advanced security solutions, and connectivity innovations in aviation. The collaboration aims to advance network services, cybersecurity, smart airport solutions, and digital transformation, impacting 2,500+ global customers across 200+ countries and territories. CEOs David Lavorel and Aliette Mousnier-Lompré emphasize faster connectivity, stronger security, and innovation in AI and sustainability as future goals for the industry.

📌 Booking.com's research reveals that 45% of neurodivergent travelers face challenges while traveling. An estimated 15-20% of the global population is neurodivergent. Many seek improved travel experiences, with 58% wanting "travel rehearsals," 78% desiring quiet spaces, and 62% advocating for sensory rooms. Only 43% feel supported adequately, with 52% interested in AI for real-time updates and 57% seeing potential in AI for navigating busy areas. Neurodivergent travelers also request noise reduction options (67%) and accommodations with more personal space (62%). Additionally, 60% advocate for industry-wide training programs, and the sunflower lanyard initiative is recognized in over 300 airports in 30+ countries by 18 airlines.

🏖️ Over 50% of social media users doubt influencers' authenticity, leading travel brands to shift from one-size-fits-all influencer trips to immersive experiences. Gamification and real-time audience participation are redefining travel marketing, with 71% of European TikTok users actively searching for travel content and 77% making travel-related purchases after TikTok discoveries. Authentic, unfiltered storytelling and personalized influencer content are emerging as key strategies to evoke trust and engagement. Travel brands are encouraged to focus on community-driven campaigns to foster connections and drive conversions.

✈ Air France-KLM becomes the fourth client for Amadeus's Nevio, joining British Airways, Finnair, and Saudia. Stephan Hirmer leads the delivery management for the transition to Nevio, which aims to resolve disconnects between PSS and DCS systems. Nevio simplifies Offer and Order Management, and the Delivery Management Champions group has produced a white paper outlining future delivery improvements. AI is highlighted as an enabler for retail transformation in the industry. The adoption by Air France-KLM is anticipated to create momentum among other carriers for modern retailing.

🏕 UK-based travel tech provider intuitive partners with Florida villa supplier Ocean Beds. Ocean Beds, leading in Florida villa vacations, offers over 3,500 properties in Orlando and Gulf Coast. The partnership enhances booking capabilities through intuitive's reservation platform and website, and expands iVectorOne's global network. Ocean Beds now allows more partners direct API connections, aiming for seamless booking experiences and innovation in the villa rental market.

🏖️ Summer 2025 package holiday prices in the UK have increased by 4.2%, outpacing inflation. Epsilon's research shows 46% of travellers value personal recommendations and seek trust, variety, and expertise when planning trips. Airlines like easyJet use customer data to personalize experiences, commemorating its 20th anniversary by creating individual customer stories. Travel businesses are urged to utilize first-party data and AI-driven recommendations to foster loyalty through personalized and emotionally engaging experiences.