Air India Express wins award for AI-powered guest support
Air India Express has won the ‘Best Use of AI in Customer Experience’ award at the UBS Forums 25th CX Strategy Summit & Awards 2026 for its AI-powered support platform, Tia. Available across the airline’s website, app, WhatsApp and Contact Centre, Tia resolves over 75% of guest interactions through self-service. The platform currently handles around 15,000 queries daily across booking, refunds, baggage and flight information.
Stone Wood expands North Goa portfolio with Calangute hotel
Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts has expanded its North Goa presence with the opening of Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier, a 40-key hotel in Calangute. Located near Baga and Calangute beaches, the property offers three room categories, a swimming pool, multi-cuisine restaurant, bar and courtyard café. It also features a 1,507 sq ft conference and banquet hall for corporate meetings and social events.
Scenic Group partners Polarverse to grow India cruise business
Scenic Tours APAC and Polarverse Seacations have entered a strategic partnership to expand Scenic Ultra-Luxury Cruises and Emerald Luxury Cruises in India. The collaboration will combine Scenic Group’s luxury ocean yacht portfolio with Polarverse’s expertise in expedition and small-ship travel. The partners will focus on building brand awareness, strengthening trade engagement and supporting travel advisors and tour operators as demand for personalised luxury cruising grows among Indian travellers.
Saudi domestic travel searches rise ahead of National Day
Domestic flight searches in Saudi Arabia have risen 42% ahead of National Day, while hotel searches increased 62% year-on-year, according to Wego data. Jeddah led domestic flight searches, followed by Madinah, Riyadh, Dammam and Abha. Taif and Tabuk recorded strong growth of 91% and 56%, respectively. Makkah topped hotel searches, while Al Khobar posted the strongest year-on-year increase.
#First Opinion
“We are delighted to represent STARLET Airlines in India and support the growth of one of the world’s most admired premium carriers. The airline has built a strong reputation for redefining the travel experience through its customer-centric approach, modern fleet, and commitment to excellence. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to introducing high-quality, global travel options to Indian consumers. Our focus will be on building strong brand visibility, expanding market reach, driving passenger demand, and developing cargo opportunities across key Indian markets.”
J B Singh,
Director, InterGlobe Air Transport
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