2 years on, still no answer to why a China Eastern Boeing jet crashed killing 132 people
Two years after a Boeing 737-800 passenger jet crashed on a domestic flight in China, killing all 132 people on board. An update issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China on the eve of the second anniversary of the crash shed little new light on it.
Chinese hotel giant H World announces 57.9% revenue rise in 2023
Shanghai-headquartered hotel giant H World Group said its revenue increased 50.7% year-over-year to RMB5.6 billion (US$786 million) in the fourth quarter of 2023. Net income attributable to H World Group was RMB4.1 billion (US$575 million) for the full year of 2023. For the first quarter of 2024, H World expects its revenue growth to be around 12%-16% compared to the first quarter of 2023, or in the range of 11%-15% excluding DH. H World expects to open around 1,800 hotels and close around 650 hotels this year.
Accor charts ambitious plan for China market
French hospitality company Accor is betting on the burgeoning Chinese market, anticipating substantial growth in its thriving tourism sector as the country plans to become the world's largest tourism market by 2035. As China gradually shakes off the impact of the pandemic, Accor has witnessed robust growth in its China business, with many areas registering double-digit growth last year, said Gary Rosen, CEO of Accor Greater China.
Inbound tourism is strategically important for China's economic growth
Starting from March 14, China implemented a visa-free policy for citizens of Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg for up to 15 days. This visa-free policy is part of China's opening-up strategy to attract global travelers and make visiting China more appealing. China is shifting from export and heavy industry reliance to a balanced approach focusing on expanding domestic demand, foreign investment, and inbound tourism.
Tourism expo to draw over 5,000 exhibitors to Shanghai
A tourism expo, Tourism Plus Shanghai 2024, will take place from March 26 to 30, the expo's organizer said Tuesday. Covering an area of over 600,000 square meters, the expo will include four major sections and feature more than 100 forums and summits and over 200 activities. The event is expected to attract more than 5,000 exhibitors from over 30 countries and regions, and welcome over 400,000 visitors from more than 120 countries and regions.
Shanghai-Penang direct flight to boost Penang’s business, tourism
The first direct service from Shanghai, China to Penang, starting May 31 stands to boost the development of state’s business and tourism industry besides reflecting the growing ties between China and Malaysia. With Shanghai-based Juneyao Airlines operating four flights per week between the cities, state tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai expects the development to stimulate economic synergies between the two countries, facilitating seamless trade, investment and cooperation across various sectors.
Over 500,000 tourists arrive in Sri Lanka in 2024
Over 500,000 tourists have arrived in Sri Lanka by March 14 this year, the latest statistics by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) shows. Russia, India, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and China are the key source markets for 2024, according to the SLTDA data.
Chongqing launches direct flight route to Milan
Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality opened a direct passenger air route to Italy's Milan, according to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport. This is the first direct air route linking west China and Milan. Operated by Hainan Airlines with a Boeing 787 aircraft, the new service will offer two round trips every week, scheduled for Tuesdays and Fridays.
Air Canada to add ex-China Southern Airbus A320 to its fleet
Air Canada is set to bolster its fleet with an ex-China Southern Airways Airbus A320, reflecting the airline's growth strategy. The 18-year-old A320, previously operated by China Southern Airways, will be leased from Aviator Capital. This addition aligns with Air Canada's plan to introduce various aircraft types, including A320s and A220s, while phasing out older models like the A319.
Weekend micro vacations gain in popularity in China
The warm spring encourages people to venture out and embrace the beauty of the season. More and more tourists are opting for a micro vacation on weekends, seeking to reconnect with nature or explore nearby cities. One popular option is to immerse in the splendor of blooming flowers. Recent data from online travel agency Ctrip reveals a significant surge in searches for flower viewing, with a 330 percent increase compared to the previous week. Bookings for flower-themed attractions have also seen a nearly 50 percent rise since March, particularly for one-day flower viewing tours on weekends.
