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Commenting on the development, Andy Smith, Chief Commercial Officer at Flydocs, said, "We are proud to partner with SunClass Airlines to enhance the customer experience through digital transformation. Our DRM solution will seamlessly integrate with AMOS to enhance compliance-ready digital records while LAM provides a single source of truth to minimise recovery risks and optimise maintenance planning."

Flydocs, a global leader in digital records asset management and engineering services for the aviation sector, has announced a strategic five-year partnership with Sunclass Airlines, the largest charter airline in the Nordic region.

The collaboration wants to enhance Sunclass's operational efficiency and fleet management by adopting Flydocs Digital Records Management and Lifestyle Asset Management solutions.

Under the agreement, Sunclass Airlines will integrate DRM and LAM systems to streamline and digitise its technical records processes, gaining real-time visibility into asset compliance and lease return conditions.

The unified approach will help the airline align its asset management strategies with engineering priorities, ultimately enabling more innovative maintenance planning, cost avoidance, and reduced risk during aircraft transitions through predictive analytics and scenario modelling.

The partnership complements Sunclass's existing collaboration with AMOS, a leading maintenance and engineering software solution, which is part of Flydocs' broader Digital Tech Ops Ecosystem.

This integrated system will provide Sunclass with a comprehensive platform to enhance its technical operations across the value chain. Commenting on the development, Andy Smith, Chief Commercial Officer at flydocs, said, "We are proud to partner with Sunclass Airlines to enhance the customer experience through digital transformation. Our DRM solution will seamlessly integrate with AMOS to ensure compliance-ready digital records while LAM provides a single source of truth in minimising redelivery risks and optimising maintenance planning."

Martin Hodgkinson, Director of Fleet and Technical Strategy at Sunclass Airlines, expresses enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are pleased to collaborate with Flydocs to elevate our digital capabilities. Their market-leading solutions will allow us to transition from non-specialised storage tools to a dedicated records management platform. This partnership marks a significant step in our transformation journey."

With this collaboration, Sunclass Airlines will become one of the first users of Flydocs' LAM solution, reinforcing both companies' commitment to driving innovations and operational excellence within the aviation sector.

#nordicregion #nordicfights #travelnews #digitalsolutions #flydocs #sunclass #airlinesupdate

The minister stated that the new digital platform will integrate hospitals, facilitators, travel agents, hotels, translators, and other support services into one comprehensive platform. "The goal is to enhance the overall patient experience from treatment to travel arrangements and post-treatment care," he said in his address at the FICCI's Medical Value Travel conference.

The Central government is working on a comprehensive online portal aimed at boosting the country's position as a global healthcare destination, Minister of State of Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, said on Friday.

The minister stated that the new digital platform would integrate hospitals, facilitators, travel agents, hotels, translators, and other support services into one comprehensive platform. "The goal is to enhance the overall patient experience from treatment to travel arrangements and post-treatment care," he said in his address at the FICCI's Medical Value conference.

The government's strategy also includes expanding the healthcare ecosystem beyond major cities into tier 2 and tier 3 regions. Additionally, the government seeks to strengthen collaborations with private players to enhance services throughout the medical value travel process.

In his speech, NITI Aayog member Prof Vinod K Paul spoke about the importance of deregulation in the sector. He also urged industry players to provide suggestions on reducing the compliance burdens for healthcare facilities.

"Visa facilitation plays a key role in the growth of medical value travel, highlighting the need for transparency and trust building between countries," he said about telemedicine. Paul stated that the legal challenges associated with offering remote advice to patients in other countries are significant.

He encouraged India to take the lead in addressing these issues, given its prominent expertise in telemedicine. India's MVT market reached $7.69 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $14.31 billion by 2029. The country currently holds 18 per cent of the global market share, ranking 10th in the world in the MVT index.

The government's new digital portal is expected to play a key role in enhancing India's healthcare services for international patients and promoting the country's diverse medical offerings globally.

Meanwhile, medical tourism (MVT) refers to patients travelling abroad to receive healthcare services. This growing trend is fueled by the pursuit of premium medical care at more affordable prices, has reduced waiting times and access to specialised treatments that may not be available in their home country.

#travelupdate #medicaltourism #tourismnews #medicaltourismupdate #digitalportal

Bird Group has expanded its luxury hospitality portfolio by acquiring Beechfiled House, a historic boutique hotel in Wiltshire, UK. The property, known for its vacation architecture and award-winning hospitality, aligns with the company's vision of offering world-class experiences.

Bird Group, the operator of Roseate Hotels and Resorts, has announced the acquisition of Beechfield House, a distinguished boutique hotel in Wiltshire. This addition enhances the company's luxury hospitality presence in the United Kingdom.

Initially built in 1878 as a private residence by Richard Keevil, Beechfield House is a Grade 11 listed property inspired by 16th-century Italian Renaissance design. Set within eight acres of landscaped gardens and woodlands, the estate was converted into a hotel in the late 1960s, providing guests with a mix of history and refined hospitality.

In the heart of Wiltshire, Beechfield House is surrounded by historic villages such as Bradford on Avon and Castle Combe. It is also near cultural landmarks, including the heritage city of Bath and Stonehenge, making it an attractive destination for travellers seeking history and peace.

The boutique hotel features 24 luxurious rooms with Victorian-era architecture, high ceilings, antique fireplaces, and large windows offering picture-friendly views. The property boasts an Arboretum, an Orangery, a walled garden, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. It is a sought-after venue for private gatherings, weddings, and bespoke events. Recognised for its excellence, Beechfield House has received multiple accolades, including the AA Inspector Choice Country House Hotel 2024-25, the AA Breakfast Award 2024-25, and the prestigious 2AA Rosettes for culinary excellence.

It also holds a 4AA Red Star rating, placing it among the top 200 hotels in the UK. Gaurav Bhatia, Executive Director of Bird Group, stated, "We are delighted to welcome Beechfield House into our portfolio. Staying true to our vision of impeccable hospitality, we look forward to enhancing guests' experiences at this remarkable property."

#birdgroup #luxury #hospitality #beechfieldhouse #UKtourism #travelupdate #travelnews 

Spain ended its Golden Visa Program on April 3 2025, halting residency for non-EU investors. Introduced in 2013, the program attracted 14,576 investors primarily through property purchases. The decision aimed to address housing affordability for Spanish residents as foreign investments drove rising property prices. The scheme notably impacted Madrid, Barcelona and famous coastal regions.  

Spain officially ended its Golden Visa program on April 2, 2025, marking the conclusion of a residency scheme that attracted thousands of foreign investors over the past 12 years. According to a report by Schengen News, non-EU nationals will no longer be able to obtain Spanish residency and visa-free access to the Schengen Zone by investing in the country.

The program, launched in 2013 under PM Mariano Rajoy, offered residency to individuals who invested at least 500,000, primarily through real estate. Since its introduction, 14567 golden visas have been issued. Of these, 95 per cent were tied to property purchases, which contributed significantly to Spain's economy but also placed pressure on the housing market.

The program's impact was most visible in cities like Madrid and Barcelona and regions such as Malaga, Alicante, Girona, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands. Rising demand from foreign investors increased property prices, making housing less affordable for Spanish residents.

In response, Spanish President Pedro Sanchez said in April 2024, "I want to announce that tomorrow's Council of Ministers is going to study a report submitted by the Minister of Housing and Urban Agenda to modify the Law approved by the Popular Party in 2013, which allows obtaining a residence visa if you invest in housing in our country."

The Spanish Congress of Deputies approved the termination of the Golden Visa Program in December 2024 with 177 votes in favour and 170 against. The new legislation, Organic Law 1/2025, was published in the official Gazette on January 3 2025 and came into effect after a three-month window.

Despite the decision, the scheme remained active in early 2025. Local Spain reported that around 500 golden visas were issued between January and October in the first quarter. Most recipients of these visas came from China, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The Spanish government stated that the end of the Golden Visa Program is part of its broader effort to prioritise housing access for residents over speculative investment.

#spainvisa #goldenvisa #spaingoldenvisa #visaupdate #visaprograme #visapolicy #travelupdate #travelnews 

Indri has launched its state-of-the-art Experience Centre in Haryana, offering whiskey connoisseurs an immersive journey into single-malt craftsmanship. The facility blends tradition with innovation, featuring guided tours, tastings, and architectural elements inspired by India's cultural heritage.

Piccadilly Agro Industries has opened the Indri Experience Centre, a landmark whisky destination set amidst the lush landscapes of Indri, Harayana. Designed to offer a deeper understanding of single malt whiskey, the centre offers visitors an immersive journey through the art of distillation, cask maturation, and tasting.

The centre was created to blend education with experience, offering guided distillery tours and curated whisky tastings that showcase the precision and craftsmanship behind Indri's renowned single malts. Guests can also engage with interactive exhibits and learn about traditional whisky-making techniques. A Putting & Chipping Golf Green further enhances the visitor's experience, adding a touch of leisure to the whiskey appreciation journey.

"Our vision for the Indri Experience Centre was to create a space that is both enlightening and engaging," said Shalini Sgarma, Head of Marketing at Piccadily Agro Industries. "It is not just about whiskey. It is about inviting consumers to be a part of the journey that brings each bottle to life."

The centre's architecture is inspired by the historic havelis of Northern India, incorporating sustainable elements such as reclaimed 19th-century Nanakshahi bricks, delicate mouldings, and large windows for natural ventilation. Chief Architect Anshuman Khanna explained, "We aimed to create a space where  tradition meets modernity, reflecting Indri's commitment to heritage and sustainability."

Priyanka Singh, Founder of Chalk Studio, added, "The interior design mirrors the whiskey-making process. Exposed brick, blackened steel, and raw concrete symbolise craftsmanship, while warm wood and brass accents pay homage to tradition."


#whiskytourism #haryanatourism #incredibleindia #piccadilly #luxuryexperience #indiatourismuodate 

Vietnam's Tourism Advisory Board proposed a long-term visa program to maintain its land in Southeast Asia's travel market. The proposal includes a golden visa and investment and talent visas. Vietnam invited 17.5 million international visitors in 2024, with prominent growth from Indian and Chinese tourists. The country aims for 23 million international arrivals by 2025.

Vietnam's Tourism Advisory Board has proposed a long-term visa program to the government to maintain its lead in Southeast Asia's fast-evolving travel market. Bao Van Hoa reported that the recommendations submitted to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh include a golden visa valid for five to ten years to compete with Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, countries that already offer such schemes to long-term travellers.

The proposal comes as Vietnam has regained 98 per cent of its pre-pandemic tourism levels, making it the fastest-recovering destination in this region. In 2024, the country will welcome 17.5 million international visitors, overtaking Singapore and trailing only Malaysia and Thailand.

As reported by Thanh Nien newspaper, the advisory board also suggested introducing a 10-year investor visa with the possibility of permanent residency after five years and a five-year talent visa with a simplified renewal process. These programs could be piloted in key tourism hubs like Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang.

During Monday's government meetings, Prime Minister Chinha asked ministries to explore ways to improve visa policies to support tourism growth. "Vietnam must remain an open and safe destination," he said.

Many factors have driven Vietnam's tourism momentum. New visa reforms 2023 extended the e-visa duration to 90 days and expanded the list of visa-exempt countries. The first direct US Vietnam flight and investments in high-end hospitality from Capella Hanoi to upcoming Ritz Carlton properties have included its global appeal.

Indian tourism is a significant growth segment for Vietnam. Over 500,000 Indian visitors arrived in 2024, a 297 per cent increase from pre-pandemic levels. Da Nang welcomed 222,0000 Indian travellers this year, more than 5% of international arrivals. Phu Quoc and Ha Long are becoming famous wedding destinations for Indian families.

"There is a lot of potential for tourists from India to Vietnam due to India's very high population. The two countries have a firm bilateral relationship. We value tourists from India, which is increasing," said Vietnamese Consul General Le Quang Bien during his visit to India.

Vietnam's low-cost airline, Vietjet, also promotes this momentum by offering fares starting from Rs 11 on multiple India-Vietnam routes. Meanwhile, Chinese tourists are also shifting attention to Vietnam amid rising safety concerns in other countries in the region. The kidnapping of a Chinese actor in Thailand has influenced Chinese travel preferences, leading more high-spending visitors to explore Vietnam instead.

With its tourism infrastructure expanding, including the upcoming Long Tanh International Airport by March 2026, Vietnam is targeting 23 million international arrivals in 2025. If current growth continues, it aims to surpass Malaysia and become Southeast Asia's second-most visited country after Thailand.

#vietnamvisa #visaupdate #10yearvisa #goldenvisa #vietnamgoldenvisa #tourismnews #tourismupdate 

DreamSetGo has been appointed as the first-ever official hospitality sales agent from India for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. In partnership with On Location, the exclusive hospitality supplier for the event, DreamSetGo will provide Indian fans with distinct access to premium packages, including luxury accommodations, official tickets, VIP lounges, and personalised services that offer a significant Winter Olympics experience.

DreamSetGo, India's leading sports travel platform, has announced its appointment as the first-ever official Hospitality Sales Agent for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. In partnership with On Location, the official hospitality provider for the Games, this collaboration aims to offer Indian fans an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Winter Experience in one of the world's most stunning locations: the Italian Alps.

The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will occur from 6-22 February 2026, featuring thrilling sports like alpine skiing, ice hockey, figure skating, and the newly introduced ski mountaineering. This exciting project allows DreamSetGo to provide exclusive, tailor-made hospitality packages that offer Indian fans more than just a chance to watch the games. With VIP access to events, luxury accommodations, and personalised travel services, the collaboration promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience for winter sports enthusiasts.

Monish Shah, Co-founder and CEO of DreamSetGo expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying, "Our collaboration with On Location for Milano Cortina 2026 enables us to provide passionate fans with unparalleled hospitality and a memorable experience that goes beyond simply watching the action unfold."

DreamSetGo's exclusive packages will include guaranteed access to the most thrilling Olympic events, VIP lounges,  gourmet dining, premium seating, elite accommodations in Milano, Cortina, and surrounding areas, as well as scenes fan access and personalised travel services such as private transfers and concierge assistance.

#winterolympics2026 #olympics2026 #indianhospitality #dreamsetgo #travelnews #travelupdate #sportshospitality

The meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) tourism sector in Madhya Pradesh is experiencing a significant revival, driving higher hotel occupancy rates in tourist destinations like Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Mahabaleshwar, Mandu, and Mandsaur. According to the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Corporation, upgrades to local properties have attracted more corporate events, boosting revenue and creating job opportunities.

The meetings, incentives, and exhibitions sector in Madhya Pradesh is experiencing a significant recovery, which is leading to increased hotel occupancy at various tourist destinations, particularly during the traditionally off-peak season.

In recent months, the demand for meetings, conferences, and corporate events in these areas has soared as companies have sought unique venues for their greetings. Ajay Shrivastava, regional manager of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Corporation in Indore, said, "MICE tourism in Madhya Pradesh was since viewed as an underutilised resource, but here is a significant shift representing a surge in demand for properties to hold corporate events.

The upgrades to our properties and new amenities made our destinations more attractive to businesses looking for conference locations. We are thrilled to witness such a positive response to our efforts in promising the MICE tourism sector."

The MPTDC operates 15 resorts in the Indore and Ujjain regions. All have recently been enhanced to include modern amenities such as swimming pools, children's play areas, and various recreational activities. Shrivastava said these upgrades at tourist locations are part of a broader strategy to bolster Madhya Pradesh's tourism potential.

Local hoteliers and entrepreneurs said that this spike in MICE tourism will boost revenue and create new job opportunities within teh sector as more companies choose MP as their preferred destination for corporate events.

"The region's tourism landscape is poised for a transformation benefiting both the economy and the cultural exchange between visitors and locals amid a jump in demand for leisure and corporate tourism. Building up infrastructure and promoting tourist places made them famous for MICE," said Hemendra Singh Jadon, Chairman of the Travel Agents Association of India, MP and CG chapter.

#micetourism #tourismnews #MPtourism #Indore #travelupdate #corporatetravel #madhyapradesh 

Over half of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh student visa applications are being rejected by US authorities at the highest rate in 20 years. Even Ivy League admittees are facing refusals, stricter scrutiny, potential overstays, and minor discrepancies believed to be causes. Students are considering alternatives like the UK and Germany amid uncertainties.

Over half of the student visa applications from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are denied by US authorities for study abroad consultants in Hyderabad. This marks the highest rejection rate in 20 years, with even students admitted to Ivy League universities facing refusals. This comes at a time when the two Telugu-speaking states sent more students to the US than any other state in the country.

"January intake was the worst season for us. The upcoming summer intake shows similar trends", said Arvind Manduva from I20 Fever, a registered study-abroad consultancy. US visa officials are no longer providing reasons for rejection. However, after reviewing denied applications, consultancies believe minor discrepancies in personal details, education history, or supporting documents may be the cause. Previously, such issues were often overlooked if key documents were in order, but stricter scrutiny appears ahead of Trump 2.0.

A recent US govt report revealed that in the 2023-24 academic year, 6.79 lakh F-1 visa applications were filed. Of these, 2.79 lakhs, or 41%, were rejected. Indian students accounted for a prominent portion of these denials. "While the number of students considering studying abroad remains steady, many are hesitant. They are looking at alternative destinations such as the UK and Germany. The traditional preference for London is changing within the UK, with Wales and Scotland emerging as preferred destinations," said Sahas Yuvrah from Way 2 Abroad Consultancy.

Students overstaying their visas has also contributed to fewer visa approvals.

"In 2023, around 7000 Indian students overstayed their visas in the US, according to the US Department of Homeland Security's report to Congress for fiscal year 2023. Many of them struggled to find employment, which made it impossible for them to maintain their visa status, leading to them remaining in the country illegally. The US is now taking strict measures to filter out potential overstays," explained Chirandeep Patnaik of Lemma One Consultancy.

Although students are looking at alternative destinations away from the US, many remain apprehensive due to visa restrictions and political instability in other countries. "It feels like international students are being discouraged from applying. I was excited about studying abroad, but now my enthusiasm has faded," said a Btech student who is set to graduate in May.

"The Department of State is committed to protecting our nation and its citizens by upholding the highest national security and public safety standards in our visa process. The number of Indian students in the United States grew significantly in the 2023-2024 academic year. India is now the number one sender of international students to the United States," a statement issued by the US consulate said.

#usvisa #visarejections #indianstudents #visanews #visaupdate #studentvisa #travelnews #travelupdate 

IndiGo is suspending its Delhi-Tashkent and Delhi-Almaty flights until at least May 7, 2025, due to the continued closure of Pakistan's airspace for Indian carriers, which forces longer routes. Air India flights to the West may require refuelling stops depending on wind conditions and aircraft load. The closure impacts approximately 50 IndiGo international routes, potentially increasing airfares by 30-40%.

IndiGo will suspend its Delhi-Tashkent and Delhi-Almaty flights until at least May 7, 2025, due to the closure of Pakistan's airspace for Indian carriers, which requires them to take longer routes between northern India and the West. Air India's flights to the West may now need to take a fueling halt on a case-by-case basis, depending on wind conditions and aircraft load, officials said.

"Due to the closure of Pakistan's airspace, 50 international routes operated by IndiGo will need longer sectors and hence may be subjected to some slight schedule adjustments. With the same restrictions and limited rerouting options, unfortunately, Almaty and Tashkent are outside the operational range of IndiGo's current fleet. Hence, flights to Almaty stand cancelled from April 27 until at least May 7 and to Tashkent from April 28 until May 7 2025." IndiGo said in a statement.

The CIS routes of IndiGo are expected to take 80-90 minutes more via the longer route. Coupled with the flying time, some sectors are now out of range for its current fleet of Airbus A320 family planes. Air India officials say the impact on tier flights has been minimal so far, as they went through the same drill in 2019. Five long-haul flights of Air India were en route to India when Pakistan airspace was closed at 6 pm on Thursday. They had to take a fueling halt to fly to Delhi via the longer route.   

"Our North America nonstops may remain so or take a fuelling halt en route, depending on the conditions each day, each flight. This means on a given day, how are the wind flows, and how will aircraft loads like the call be taken?" said an AI official.

Senior pilots say they used to avoid headwinds while taking the Delhi north Pakistan Hindkush route to the West; the route being taken ever since Afghan airspace was closed for civilian flights in Aug 2021, Taliban taking over that country. Closure of Pakistan airspace means flights between northern India, Delhi, the largest hub of the region, and the West will divert close to Mumbai and Ahmedabad, then turn right over the Arabian Sea to head to Muscat and then fly to their destination. "This time of the year has strong headwinds here, which we have been avoiding with the Hindkush route till now," says pilots. Longer routes mean airfares for new bookings could rise by 30-40%. Foreign airlines are closely watching the India-Pakistan situation. While Pakistan has not barred foreign carriers, countries conduct their own risk assessments for overflying any region, and if they deem the geopolitical situation on the India-Pakistan border to be risky, some may suspend flights. When Pakistan closed its airspace in 2019, some North American airlines had suspended Delhi flights.

"Qatar Airways are watching the Indian Pakistan situation closely. While Pakistan has not barred foreign carriers, countries conduct their own risk assessments for overflying any region, and if they deem the geopolitical situation on the India-Pakistan border to be risky, some may suspend flights. When Pakistan closed its airspace in 2019, some North airlines had suspended Delhi flights.

"Qatar Airways confirms that all flights to and from India are operating as scheduled and remain unaffected by the current airspace closure; the airline is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to prioritise the safety and comfort of its passengers and crew. Passengers are advised to check the latest flight information," Qatar Airways said in a statement.

KLM said, "At this moment, we do not have any adjustments for our flights to India."

#flights #airspace #indigo #flightschedule #flighttiming #airindia