Air India upgrades Mumbai–Frankfurt with new B787-9
Air India will deploy its newly delivered, line-fit Boeing 787-9 aircraft on the Mumbai–Frankfurt route from 1 February 2026. Operating five weekly flights, the service will now feature the airline’s latest cabin interiors, enhancing long-haul comfort. With this move, all Air India flights to Germany will be operated by new or upgraded aircraft. The upgrade is part of Air India’s wider fleet transformation programme continuing through 2026.
Radisson RED debuts second property in Indore
Radisson Hotel Group has strengthened its lifestyle portfolio in India with the opening of Radisson RED Indore, its second Radisson RED hotel in the city. Strategically located on MR-10 Road, the 115-room hotel features bold design, smart in-room technology, vibrant dining at The Red Table, and a high-energy bar, Off The Clock. With rooftop pool, fitness centre and modern event spaces, the hotel targets Indore’s growing business and social travel demand.
Akasa Air enables Apple Pay for international bookings
Akasa Air has become the first Indian airline to introduce Apple Pay for cross-border transactions, enhancing convenience for international travellers. Enabled through a partnership with Razorpay, the integration allows seamless one-tap payments using Face ID or Touch ID on Apple devices. The airline continues to offer multiple payment options including UPI, cards, wallets, EMI and Paylater for domestic bookings.
Hong Kong gears up for year of the Horse Night Parade
Hong Kong will ring in the Year of the Horse with the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade on 17 February. Featuring dazzling floats and global performances, the parade will pass through Tsim Sha Tsui with the theme “Best Fortune. World Party.” Highlights include milestone floats from Cathay, Hong Kong Disneyland and McDonald’s, while additional displays at Kai Tak Sports Park will extend celebrations through the festive season.
#First Opinion
“At Cruise Professionals when we look at 2026 and beyond, our vision is to position India as one of the most dynamic and influential source markets for the global cruise industry. The focus will be on strengthening the strong & long-term collaborations with international cruise lines we currently represent and work more closely with travel agencies. This growth will be driven by market education, product innovation and trust-building – making cruising more accessible, aspirational and relevant to Indian families, HNIs, MICE groups and first-time cruisers. We aim to significantly increase cruise adoption across metros and emerging cities.”
Nishith Saxena,
Founder & Director, Cruise Professionals
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