SWISS First Lounge named World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining for 2024

The SWISS First Lounge in Terminal E at Zurich Airport has been named the World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining at the 2024 World Culinary Awards in Dubai. The distinction underlines the outstanding quality of the gastronomy that SWISS offers its guests in collaboration with its partner gategourmet.

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has earned first place in the World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining category for its First Class Lounge in Terminal E at Zurich Airport in the 2024 World Culinary Awards. The distinction was presented at this year’s award ceremony in Dubai on 2 October.

SWISS guests enjoy freshly prepared à la carte dining in the company’s airport lounges. Switzerland’s leading airline also puts a particular accent on regional and seasonal ingredients in its culinary offerings. And in addition to such Swiss classics as Zürcher Geschnetzeltes and fondue, SWISS Lounge guests are further treated to international dishes such as Thai curry or burgers. The range of offerings is also changed every three months.

“We are very proud to earn such a prestigious award,” says Julia Hillenbrand, Head of SWISS Brand Experience. “It’s the result and the reflection of our continual commitment to offering our customers an exceptional culinary experience that we combine with top-notch service and optimum comfort and convenience. And it will inspire us to continue to set the highest possible standards to deliver on our premium promise.”

Hubertus Henning, General Manager Airport Lounges Switzerland at gategroup, comments: "We are immensely proud of our strong collaboration and the success we have achieved with SWISS. This prestigious accolade is a testament to our exceptional partnership and our team's unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding service and unforgettable dining experiences. We look forward to continuing to inspire culinary excellence and achieving even greater milestones together."

Sustainability on the menu, too

Italian prosecutors accuse 7 people, 2 firms over flawed Boeing plane parts

Italian prosecutors on Saturday accused seven people and two sub-contractors of crimes including fraud and breaching aeroplane safety rules following an investigation into suspected flawed parts produced by an Italian company for Boeing, reports Francesca Landini.

The prosecutors launched their investigation in late 2021, after Boeing said some parts for its 787 Dreamliner plane supplied by a company working for Italian aerospace group Leonardo had been improperly manufactured.

    

Investigators found that two Italian sub-contractors used cheaper and non-compliant forms of titanium and aluminium to make certain parts, saving significant sums of money on their raw material costs, the prosecutors said in a statement, without naming the sub-contractors or the seven people.

"This resulted in the realisation of aeroplane parts with significantly lower static and stress resistance characteristics, with repercussions on aviation safety," the prosecutors in the southern city of Brindisi said.

UK and US aviation regulators strengthen cooperation in private aircraft ramp checks

The UK Civil Aviation Authority and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have announced a significant step forward in enhancing aviation safety and regulatory oversight with a strategic partnership on inspections of N-registered aircraft operating in the United Kingdom.

Between 31 August and 2 September, teams from the UK and US regulators carried out a series of ‘ramp checks’ across a variety of the small airfields and large airports - including Farnborough and Luton –from where N-registered aircraft regularly operate. 

Ramp checks are inspections conducted in areas where aircraft arrive or depart, ensuring pilots and aircraft comply with airworthiness, operational, and flight crew licensing requirements.

The ramp checks focused on the 890 N-registered general aviation light aircraft and business jets based in the UK. These aircraft are certificated by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and their pilots, owners and operators must follow all relevant rules and regulations regardless of where they fly.

During the inspections, FAA agents accompanied by UK CAA regulatory and enforcement officers, conducted checks on N registered aircraft. Whilst FAA personnel inspected FAA-issued pilot and aircraft documents, CAA personnel  reviewed compliance with equipment regulations, crew licence requirements and operating parameters. UK CAA personnel, observed by FAA partners, mirrored these inspections on G-registered aircraft, finding commonalities of approach and utilising opportunities for mutual learning.

Report into the Virgin Orbit's LauncherOne failure caused by dislodged fuel line.

The UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has released a statement on the failure of LauncherOne rocket dispatched from Vrigin Orbit's Cosmic Girl failied to put its satelite payload into orbit in January last year.

The AAIB was acting in its guize as the UK’s Space Accident Investigation Authority (SAIA) which is responsible for the investigation of spaceflight accidents in accordance with The Spaceflight Activities regulations.  

It was on 9th January 2023, when Virgin Orbit attempted the first orbital launch from England's Spaceport at Newquay Airport in Cornwall. The plan was to use LauncherOne, a two-stage orbital launch rocket which was designed to be carried under the wing of a modified Boeing 747-400 named Cosmic Girl. Once the 747 flew to the release or launch zone, the LauncherOne would be released and head up to orbit and dispatch its satelites payload.

The rocket had been carried to the launch area and dropped from Cosmic Girl as planned, but a fault in the second stage engine caused it to shut down before the stage achieved orbit. The mision was a failure, although at the time, Virgin Orbit downplayed the event as a 'mishap'. it would prove to be that so much of a 'mishap' that it would cause the company to enter into bankruptcy.

The cause of the launch 'mishap' is likely to be that a fuel filter within the fuel feedline dislodged from its normal position from the beginning of the first burn of the second stage engine, the statement confirms, following an investigation by Virgin Orbit and others involved. It was a conclusion that was supported by ground testing that matched the observed flight data. 

The dislodged fuel feedline caused the fuel pump downstream of the filter to operate at degraded efficiency, resulting in fuel flow to the Newton 4 engine being lower than expected. This, in turn, caused the engine to operate at a temperature significantly higher than expected. This in turn caused the second stage engine to shut down prematurely. The rocket then fell back to earth, landing within the approved flight corridor in the Atlantic Ocean, north of the Canary Islands. 

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Delta is ready to offer 1.1 million weekly seats, 968 daily flights and service to 215 destinations this summer from Atlanta

world’s largest airline hub

Delta is ready to offer 1.1 million weekly seats, 968 daily flights and service to 215 destinations this summer from Atlanta—its largest schedule ever. With nearly 75 additional daily departures compared to summer 2024, this growth reaffirms its place as the world’s largest airline hub.  

For Delta, Atlanta is more than a hub—it’s home. That’s why in summer 2025, Delta will introduce its largest-ever schedule from Atlanta, offering customers even more destinations, increased frequencies and enhanced premium experiences that highlight the airline’s commitment to supporting the city’s growth. 

“Home to the world’s busiest and most efficient airport, Atlanta’s position as a global leader for cultural and business connectivity is only enhanced by Delta’s expansion of their domestic and international network,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. “As our hometown airline and the state’s largest private employer, Delta plays an integral role in our economy through workforce opportunities, community investments and meaningful partnerships.”  

Summer 2025: Delta’s largest schedule yet

Delta is ready to offer 1.1 million weekly seats, 968 daily flights and service to 215 destinations this summer from Atlanta—its largest schedule ever. With nearly 75 additional daily departures compared to summer 2024, this growth reaffirms its place as the world’s largest airline hub.  

Delta’s international footprint from Atlanta also continues to grow, now spanning 66 international destinations around the world, including recently announced new service to Naples and Brussels and increased flying to Rome, Zurich, Barcelona, Athens, Cancun and Toronto, as well as sun-drenched Barbados and picturesque Curacao.  

On the Domestic front, Delta continues to increase its flight offerings, with recently enhanced service to across the U.S. The expanded flying includes the largest-ever schedule in its home state of Georgia with 20% more intra-state seats to Savannah, Augusta, Albany, Brunswick, Columbus and Valdosta, reinforcing Delta's commitment to improving regional connectivity across the Peach State. 

Delivering a premium experience in the air

But Delta’s presence in Atlanta is about more than just destinations—it’s about delivering a premium experience worthy of the city’s dynamic spirit. With 41,000 daily premium seats—including Delta One, First Class, Delta Premium Select and Delta Comfort+—Delta ensures that the journey matches the destination. This marks an impressive 9% year-over-year increase in premium seating, showing Delta’s commitment to creating unparalleled comfort for its customers. Whether flying for business, pleasure or anything in between, Delta is elevating the journey with spacious cabins, top-tier service and unmatched reliability. 

 

Delta’s focus on comfort is further emphasized with 87% of ATL departures now operated on mainline aircraft—an increase from 79% in 2019. 

Elevating the journey from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport 

Atlanta has grown alongside Delta to become a key global travel center, hosting the airline's largest and most crucial operation which made up over 70% of the airport’s total passenger traffic in 2023. 

 

Over the past decade, Delta has invested more than $12 billion in modernizing and upgrading its network of hubs into state-of-the-art facilities. In Atlanta, Delta has contributed significantly to the airport’s $10.8 billion redevelopment program, which includes expanding Concourse D, plans to open a new Delta Sky Club before summer 2025—double the size of the existing one—and the introduction of a touchless experience at bag drop and security using Digital ID. 

 

Delta’s commitment to customer comfort extends at ATL, with renovations coming to all nine Delta Sky Clubs starting with Concourse A, further enhancing the customer experience. These Clubs continue to provide best-in-class food and beverage options, thoughtful amenities, and stylish facilities where eligible customers can relax before their journey. 

Atlanta travelers also enjoy Delta’s highly convenient schedules. With 56 markets featuring eight or more daily flights, Delta offers the frequency that both business travelers and families need for easy planning, ensuring flights are available when and where customers need them most. 

Delta is also at the heart of Atlanta’s economic infrastructure, anchoring Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as a major driver of growth. As Delta’s hometown hub, the airline employs more than 36,000 people and continually invests in enhancing operations and community initiatives.  

“Our growth and strength in Atlanta come from the dedication of Delta people who live our Brand Beliefs—Welcoming, Elevated, and Caring—every day,” said Joe Miller, VP – Airport Operations, ATL. “Our team’s pride, unity, and relentless drive to improve are what truly make the Delta difference.” 

This commitment has helped make Hartsfield-Jackson a vital component of the region’s economy as well, boosting travel, tourism, and connectivity. In 2023 alone, travel and tourism contributed nearly $80 billion to Georgia's economy and supported over 463,000 jobs, as reported by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, highlighting Delta's integral role in fostering regional prosperity. 

“Delta delivers positive impacts statewide – tourism to Georgia creates jobs and opportunities from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Golden Isles, including generating a record $5 billion in state and local tax revenues in 2023,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “The connectivity provided by Delta also supports increased business-related travel, which grew year-over-year by nearly 10 million travelers and more than $1 billion in spending in 2023. And with Delta TechOps as the largest airline maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider in North America, Delta is making a difference in Georgia’s aerospace ecosystem, too.” 

The vision for Atlanta revolves around growth, enhanced connectivity, and delivering the best travel experience possible. Delta and Atlanta are leading the way together, building a brighter future for the airport, the city, and all the customers who pass through its doors. Delta isn't just a part of Atlanta—it’s embedded in the city’s DNA, shaping its future and connecting it to the world. 

2.6 million people flew with the Norwegian Group in September

Norwegian Group had 2.6 million passengers in September

September 2024 was a busy month for the airlines in the Norwegian Group according to figures released last week. 2,263,270 passengers travelled with Norwegian during the month, while Widerøe had 356,259 passengers, totalling 2,619,529 for the group. 

Capacity was up 10% while the number of passengers rose by 11% compared to September 2023, with Norwegian operating an average of 86 aircraft throughout the month. Load factor was just a little up from the same period last year to 85.2%.

“I am pleased that we have increased load factors throughout the summer and into the autumn season, while at the same time delivering double-digit capacity growth. The autumn school holiday period in Norway is performing well, and we are looking forward to a busy October ahead and an upcoming winter season with many new and exciting destinations. While we are happy with the performance, we are not complacent. We are actively managing costs to mitigate any upcoming challenges,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.

Norwegian’s capacity (ASK) was 3,541 million seat kilometres, up 10 percent from the same period last year. Actual passenger traffic (RPK) was 3,017 million seat kilometres, an increase of 12 percent from September 2023. Load factor increased by 1.2 percentage points from the same period last year, to 85.2 percent. In September, Norwegian operated with a regularity, meaning share of scheduled flights taking place, of 99.4 percent. The punctuality, meaning share of flights departing within 15 minutes of scheduled time, was 78.6 percent, down 6 percentage points from September last year, in part due to weather and heavy air traffic control restrictions. 

Boeing strike causes worry

De Havilland Canada celebrates milestone with European Union and member states

Leaders from the European Commission, Government of Canada, EU Member States and De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (De Havilland Canada) celebrated the conclusion of contract negotiations as aircraft production for 22 new waterbomber aircraft ramps up at De Havilland Canada's facilities.

De Havilland Canada presented EU Commissioner Janez Lenarčič with a rescEU branded model aircraft, as well as other model De Havilland Canada aircraft, to the assembled EU Member States representatives to mark the occasion and signify the close of the contract negotiation process.

As part of the event, De Havilland Canada announced that the name of the DHC-515 Firefighter would be changing to reflect the history and overwhelming sentiment for the name "Canadair" in Europe.

WestJet Group and the Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) outline partnership achievements, showcasing enhanced connectivity and record-breaking strategic growth

With over 2.4 million seats serving Winnipeg this year, WestJet and the WAA continue to strengthen travel options for both business and leisure in Manitoba's capital 

WestJet Group met with the WAA to deliver a progress update on the airline's successful growth strategy for Winnipeg, highlighting an impressive 21 per cent growth for 2024 in Manitoba's capital.

"This winter, we will further expand to serve 22 destinations out of Winnipeg, compared to 18 last winter, increasing our capacity by 35 per cent, marking both record growth for us in the community and our largest capacity boost at any airport in Western Canada this season," said von Hoensbroech. "Our steadfast commitment to Winnipeg is evident year-round, through our investments and our strong partnership with the WAA, WestJet is well-positioned to continue enhancing travel options for both leisure and business travellers alike."

WestJet unlocks same-day business itineraries for Winnipeg's business community through domestic network enhancements

WestJet's domestic service to Winnipeg has grown year-over-year by 43 per cent, allowing for the introduction of same-day itineraries uniquely tailored for Manitoba's business community, substantially strengthening connections to essential markets across Canada for the community.

Route	Peak Weekly Winter Departures	Frequency Increase Per cent
Winnipeg-Montreal	5x Weekly*	New route
Winnipeg-Edmonton	16x Weekly*	167 per cent
Winnipeg-Regina	10x Weekly*	150 per cent
Winnipeg-Vancouver	11x Weekly*	120 per cent
Winnipeg-Calgary	46x Weekly*	31 per cent
Winnipeg-Ottawa	5x Weekly*	25 per cent
Winnipeg-Saskatoon	12x Weekly*	9 per cent
Winnipeg-Thunder Bay	7x Weekly	--
Winnipeg-Toronto	20x Weekly	--

*Increased frequency

Winnipeg benefits from expansive transborder and leisure network

In addition to enhancing its domestic offerings, the airline is boosting Winnipeg's global connectivity this fall and winter with new transborder services to Atlanta and three exciting leisure destinations: Los Cabos, Nashville, and Fort Lauderdale. These additions will serve over 9,000 passengers looking to explore these vibrant locations, complementing WestJet's extensive sun and leisure schedule and further linking Winnipeg to sought-after Latin American and Caribbean markets.

Route	Peak Weekly Winter Departures	Frequency Increase Per cent
Latin Caribbean
Winnipeg-San Jose del Cabo	1x Weekly*	New route
Winnipeg-Cancun	7x Weekly*	40 per cent
Winnipeg-Puerto Vallarta	7x Weekly*	17 per cent
Winnipeg-Montego Bay	2x Weekly	--
Winnipeg-Huatulco	1x Weekly	--
Transborder connectivity
Winnipeg-Fort Lauderdale	1x Weekly*	New route
Winnipeg-Phoenix	4x Weekly*	33 per cent
Winnipeg-Atlanta	5x Weekly	--
Winnipeg-Los Angeles	3x Weekly	--
Winnipeg-Las Vegas	2x Weekly	--
Winnipeg-Orlando	3x Weekly	--
Winnipeg-Palm Springs	2x Weekly	--

IATA issues a statement on protecting civil aviation during times of conflict

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released the following statement reminding governments of the importance of protecting civil aviation, including airport and air navigation infrastructure, during times of conflict. 

        “Civil aviation fulfils a purpose that transcends politics to ‘create and preserve friendship and understanding among the nations and peoples of the world’. The Chicago Convention, signed eighty years ago as the Second World War raged, begins with those words. They are a timeless reminder of civil aviation’s essential and unique role in connecting people and delivering goods over vast distances. In the turbulent world of 2024, the truth of the Chicago Convention’s preamble rings loudly.

We all want to live in a world at peace. Sadly, today, that is far from reality for many people. That is why it is necessary to remind all involved in conflict of the need to ensure that flights are safe, and that critical airport and air navigation infrastructure is not targeted in any hostilities. 

Civil aviation does not take sides in political conflicts. As an industry that requires the effective implementation of global standards to operate, aviation upholds global standards and the international rules-based order on which they rely. As the name implies, civil aviation serves the civilian population. It must be kept out of harm’s way by all actors in a conflict. This is the firm belief of IATA. More importantly, it is the unquestionable obligation of governments under international law. For example:

·    Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights protects the freedom of movement domestically and internationally. 

·    Article 48 of the Fourth Geneva Convention holds that combatants in conflict must not target civilian objects.

·    Basic norms of customary international law require that all parties to a conflict allow and facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need and ensure the freedom of movement of authorized humanitarian relief personnel.

These international legal obligations will be unfulfillable should the line between military and civil aviation blur, even in the slightest. That would bring deeply troubling consequences for innocent populations trying to survive through conflict, and especially for those in need of humanitarian aid. 

Moreover, the Chicago Convention explicitly obliges states to protect civil aircraft and passengers in flight, refrain from the use of force against civil aircraft, and by corollary coordinate and communicate any activities potentially hazardous to civil aviation. These are essential to keep flying safe. 

As the world works towards more peaceful days, aviation will support the effort by connecting people and goods. In the meantime, combatants must know and abide by the rules of conflict and humanitarian assistance as laid out in international law. To simplify: do no harm to civilian aircraft, airports or air navigation services. This is non-negotiable and must be respected, even at the height of hostility.”

Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA

Record passenger numbers for Widerøe in September.

Widerøe set a new passenger record in September, the regional airline confirmed last week. The carrier, now part of The Norwegian Group, reported September's load factor was 73.5% with 356,259 passengers flying with them during the month. Never before in the company's 90-year history have so many passengers flown with the airline in a single month. This record is all the more impressive when you consider capacity dropped by 6% from the previous month.

Another key highlight for Widerøe during the month was the recruitment of new pilots increasing, at the same time as experienced first officers are being trained and stepping into new roles as captains. The positive trend is also reflected in a record number of newly qualified cabin crew.

"We are very pleased with the month of September," says Widerøe's Chief Commercial Officer Christian Skaug. The fact that we succeed in moving the arrows further upwards enables an increase in sought-after routes. We are producing a little more than last year, while at the same time we are succeeding in filling the aircraft significantly better. It's gratifying," he continues. Now that we also use the autumn and winter to equip the crew corps, we hope to be able to continue the positive trend. We have already planned next summer and are getting ready for the summer season of all time," he concludes.

The airline has put its 2025 summer programme on sale which has an increase in capacity on several commercial routes, plus new routes between Tromsø and Leknes and Svolvær, respectively, as well as the direct route between Oslo and Brønnøysund from next year, there will be more departures on several popular routes. Between Bergen and Stavanger, we will increase capacity already from the winter, from six to nine daily departures. Bergen-Trondheim we are increasing from six to seven daily departures. Further frequency increases will be introduced between Bergen and Kristiansund, the Faroe Islands and Gothenburg. The investment in the north continues in the same way with more departures between Tromsø and Hammerfest, Alta, Trondheim and Bodø. With the summer program, Widerøe is also introducing its 78-seat aircraft, the Dash 8 Q400, between Tromsø and Kirkenes. This increases the availability of available aircraft seats compared to the current 39-seat aircraft on the route. 

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The Top 5 enchanting autumn destinations and festivals in South Korea

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) invites travellers to experience the breathtaking beauty and Festivals of South Korea during the enchanting Fall season. As the vibrant hues of autumn paint the landscapes, South Korea offers an array of destinations that showcase the country’s stunning foliage and cultural richness. From the bustling metropolis of Seoul to the serene vistas of Jeju Island, South Korea provides a perfect getaway.

Here are the five best places and Festivals to visit in South Korea during autumn, each offering unique attractions and activities amidst breathtaking landscapes:

Seoul: Throughout Seoul, skyscrapers and contemporary structures provide a striking contrast to the natural fall scenery, creating a unique and captivating urban cityscape. Whether wandering through historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, exploring urban parks, or hiking in nearby Bukhansan National Park, visitors to Seoul are treated to a vivid and unforgettable experience that showcases the city’s diverse beauty and cultural richness. 

 

Busan: Vibrant foliage harmonizes with the city’s coastal vibe and urban charm. From the serene Haeundae Beach and Gamcheon Culture Village to the rugged cliffs of Geumjeongsan Mountain and ancient Beomeosa Temple, every corner of Busan offers a unique and breathtaking experience. The city’s vibrant landscape, combined with its rich cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination during the fall season. The world-famous Busan Fireworks Festival (Nov. 9, 2024) also takes place every autumn along Gwangalli Beach. The festival’s diverse programs of cultural events, high-tech laser light shows, and myriad of unique and colorful fireworks make this one of the area’s most popular festivals.

 

Gyeonggi Province: Gyeonggi Province in Fall is a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural sites. The region’s historical views, traditional villages and botanical gardens are all enhanced by the vibrant colors of the season. Whether exploring relaxing Nami Island, beautiful Hwadamsup or hiking Namhansan Mountain to reach Namhansanseong Fortress, visitors to Gyeonggi Province are treated to an unforgettable autumn experience. Music lovers can enjoy the 21st annual Jarasum Jazz Festival (Oct. 18-20, 2024) celebrating all genres of jazz music.

 

Jeju Island: Fall in Jeju Island is a time of transformation, where the volcanic island’s natural beauty is enhanced by a myriad of rich hues. From the towering heights of Hallasan Mountain to the serene coastal paths of the Olle Trails, every corner of Jeju offers a stunning display of autumn colours. The island’s unique volcanic formations, lush forests, and tranquil beaches create a diverse and magical backdrop for any trip. Witness the TransJeju by UTMB (Oct. 12-13, 2024) the biggest ultra-distance trail event on Jeju Island where participants run through the Hallasan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

 

Gangwon Province: A perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the midst of autumn, Gangwon Province offers a variety of fall experiences from hikes to unique cultural encounters and scenic coastal views. The province boasts splendid mountains, such as Seoraksan in the renowned Seoraksan National Park and Odaesan in Odaesan National Park, both adorned with colorful foliage, making them prime spots for leaf peeping. The Gangneung Coffee Festival, (Oct 12-15, 2024) is held each year in Gangneung, the City of Coffee, where visitors can taste coffee from around the country, in addition to enjoying concerts and cultural events.

To learn more about the best places to experience fall foliage in South Korea and to plan your trip, visit the Korea Tourism Organization’s official website at english.visitkorea.or.kr.

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Japan's iconic Akita Kanto Festival lights up Tainan’s Nan Ying International Folklore Celebration

2024 Nan Ying International Folklore Festival 

To preserve and promote the intangible cultural heritage of various countries while building ties through citizen diplomacy, the 2024 Nan Ying International Folklore Festival is set to kick off on Oct. 5 featuring exceptional performances. A total of 21 international groups from 18 countries will gather in Tainan, Taiwan, for a nine-day celebration that highlights the vibrancy and beauty of global folk art. The Cultural Affairs Bureau, Tainan City Government, has also arranged for several outstanding local Taiwanese art groups, schools, and communities to participate in interactive exchanges, making this event a significant milestone for the revival of international artistic collaboration in Tainan following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che announced that the Akita Kanto Festival, one of the three major festivals from Japan's Tohoku region, has been invited to join this year’s Nan Ying International Folklore Festival. Not only is this a key highlight of the festival, but it also marks the first official delegation from the Akita Kanto Festival to perform in Taiwan.

The Akita Kanto Festival, recognized as an important intangible folk cultural heritage of Japan, brings its rich cultural heritage to Tainan, Taiwan's cultural capital, in a significant cultural exchange between the two nations. Notably, Mayor Motomu Hozumi of Akita City, who is leading the delegation, will also sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tainan, paving the way for future collaborations between the two cities.

Soho Square investing in Newmarket Holidays.....

Soho Square Capital has confirmed a big growth investment in Newmarket Holidays, which is a UK-based escorted tour operator offering international group holidays to the over 50s traveller market.

The holiday company was founded by Jeremy Griffin and Toni Frei in 1983, with Simon Hibbs joining as Managing Director in 1984. Since then, the company has grown to become one of the UK's largest independently owned specialist escorted tour operators based in Surrey. The firm offers a wide range of group escorted tours, events and cruises. Most of the group’s revenues are now generated via long-haul tours, which has been the fastest-growing segment since 2019.  

As part of the investment, Geoff Parkin and Ailsa Pollard will be joining the board of Newmarket as Chair and NED respectively. Geoff brings a wealth of travel and consumer sector experience from his prior career as a Senior Partner at L.E.K Consulting. Ailsa joins following an impressive career within the travel sector, including most recently as CEO of Dnata UK & Europe and she currently sits on the board of ABTA. David Steel from Soho Square will also join the board of Newmarket Holidays.

Niel Alobaidi, CEO of Newmarket Holidays, said:  “We were attracted by Soho Square’s flexible approach to structuring investments, providing us with capital and expertise, while enabling us to stay in control of the business that we have put so much work into over the years. Myself, my leadership team and our shareholders are all excited to get to work with our new partners to accelerate our growth plans and continue Newmarket Holidays’ positive trajectory.”

Soho Square, is an investment firm focused on financing established and growing UK and European SMEs. David Steel, Director at Soho Square, commented:  “With rapid growth, expanding margins and a very loyal customer base, Newmarket Holidays is going from strength to strength, and we are excited to be joining them on this journey. Supported by a strong and experienced management team, Niel has driven improvements in product, technology, branding and processes. This has been reflected in the impressive level of customers booking directly with Newmarket both via its new website and from within its loyal customer base. With our support and fresh perspective, we’re confident that we can help Newmarket Holidays to realise new opportunities and deliver considerable growth.”

Soho Square’s deal team was led by David Steel, supported by Mark Bourke. Soho Square was advised by Clearwater Corporate Finance (Christopher Jones), legal advice by Hogan Lovells (James Cross) and Grant Thornton for financial and tax due diligence (Carl Parker and Sofie Morgan). Newmarket Holidays was advised by BDO corporate finance (Harry Stoakes), MHA for FDD (Rob Dawes) and CIL for commercial diligence (Liam McGuinness).

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