June 18

More articles from the category

June 18

TUI significantly increases quotas after FTI insolvency

Following the insolvency of tour operator FTI, TUI has significantly increased its quotas in order to offer affected customers an alternative. A company spokesperson announced on Sunday that TUI had secured around 300.000 additional places. Capacity has been increased particularly in Turkey and Egypt, FTI's traditional focal points, but also in Spain and Greece. Talks with the providers began immediately after FTI's insolvency was announced and have now been successfully concluded. With the additional quotas, TUI expects to be able to cover more than half of the affected travelers who would like to make a replacement booking. TUI is also planning to further expand its capacity for the coming winter season. FTI filed for insolvency around two weeks ago and has since canceled all further trips. The Alliance of Independent Travel Companies (asr) commented positively on the cancellation of the FTI trips. asr President Anke Budde emphasized that this creates security for everyone involved and that travel agencies can now make new bookings for their customers. At the same time, she appealed to the tour operators who take over quotas from FTI to keep prices stable and not to increase them to the detriment of holidaymakers. TUI assured on Sunday that prices would not change significantly despite the changed competitive situation and should remain at a comparable level.

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Before ECJ ruling: Booking.com abolishes best price clause

The online booking portal Booking.com has removed the controversial best price clauses across the European Economic Area (EEA) ahead of a final EU ruling. These clauses, which Booking itself calls price parity, previously required hotels to offer prices on the platform that were at least as low as those on their own website. This step had already been taken in Germany. Booking justified this step by saying that it wanted to fulfill its obligations under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to promote competition in the digital market. Despite arguing that the clauses would create a more competitive environment and offer consumers uniform price advantages, it had decided to remove them, Booking said in response to a request. The removal of the best price clauses follows a long dispute between Booking and the hotel industry, which culminated in Germany in May 2021 with a ruling by the Federal Court of Justice. The court declared the clauses illegal after the dispute had been going through the courts since 2015 and the Federal Cartel Office was involved. Booking's decision came ahead of an expected EU ruling which, according to the ECJ Advocate General, will classify the best price clauses as a violation of EU competition law. A final decision by the ECJ on a claim for damages brought by more than 300 German hotels against Booking is expected in the coming months. Booking had always defended the clauses to prevent free-riding, whereby customers could use the platform for information but then book directly with the hotel. However, this argument was rejected by the Federal Court of Justice, particularly against the background of Booking's dominant market position with a market share of over 60 percent in the area of ​​hotel booking portals.

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Insolvent FTI cancels all trips from July 6, 2024

The insolvency administrator Axel Bierbach has announced the final cancellation of all trips booked through FTI after July 6, 2024. Around 175.000 package tours are affected, which together amount to a high three-digit million amount. Despite intensive efforts and negotiations, it was not possible to find a solution to take over the bookings, Bierbach informed. After the decision of the creditors' committee, FTI immediately began notifying the affected customers, travel agencies and hoteliers about the cancellations. All package tours and certain individual services booked through FTI Touristik, Big Xtra and the 5 vor Flug brand are included. Bierbach emphasized that he had worked hard with the German Travel Insurance Fund to find a solution to process the trips that had already been booked. The fund could have offset reimbursement claims in cooperation with transferees, but this was not feasible. Customers now have the opportunity to switch to offers from other tour operators. Travel agencies can help with this. However, there is no consolation for those who booked individual services such as flights or hotels through FTI, as there is no entitlement to a refund. According to Bierbach, the difficulties in finding a solution were also due to the fact that many local FTI partners in the target destinations could no longer meet their obligations due to the insolvency. This development, as well as the dynamic competitive situation in the travel market, made rescue more difficult. The insolvency administrator defended the decision to cancel all trips as necessary for the well-being of customers and FTI employees. Examining alternatives was essential in the interests of everyone involved.

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Rescue operation for Central German airports: MFAG faces financial challenge

Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG (MFAG), operator of Leipzig/Halle and Dresden airports, is facing significant financial difficulties. According to a KPMG report, the company urgently needs a cash injection of 145 million euros to secure its future. This alarming situation was confirmed by a spokesperson and underlines the urgency of a restructuring and transformation concept that is now to be implemented. MFAG itself stresses that it is not currently in insolvency proceedings, although media reports previously suggested the opposite. An internal paper from the Saxon Ministry of Finance shows that state support is essential to avert the impending insolvency. The restructuring efforts so far have not achieved the hoped-for results, which has led banks to hesitate to pay out further loans or to terminate existing credit lines early. The main shareholders, the Free State of Saxony and the State of Saxony-Anhalt, are now responsible for supporting MFAG with a capital injection of at least 100 million euros. This measure is intended to ensure that the banks can continue their support and provide necessary financing. The Free State of Saxony owns a 77,29% stake in MFAG, while Saxony-Anhalt holds 18,54%. The Ministry of Finance of Saxony-Anhalt confirmed that a comprehensive financing package is currently being organized in cooperation with the banks and public shareholders. This package includes not only the provision of fresh capital, but also the increase of existing bank loans and the implementation of a restructuring and rehabilitation program for MFAG. Despite the financial challenges, the MFAG spokesman emphasizes that the company remains competitive within its market segment. In particular, the growth potential

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“Experience Bulgaria” – Successful major event

From June 5 to 7, 2024, the three-day major event “Experience Bulgaria” was successfully held and promoted Bulgaria as a preferred summer travel destination. It was organized and financed by Fraport Twin Star Airport Management AD, the Association of Incoming Agencies of Bulgaria and Melia Hotels, with the support of the Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism and in partnership with FVW. Over 180 representatives of the tourism industry from Germany, Austria and Switzerland as well as local authorities met in Sunny Beach for an intensive program that highlighted Bulgaria's attractiveness for summer tourism. Highlights included the reception of the foreign participants at Burgas Airport by Electra Airways with traditional Bulgarian elements. Electra Airways' planned partnership with SunExpress from summer 2025 for seven German routes to Burgas and Varna was also announced. The conference on June 6 at the Sol Nessebar Resort provided a platform for exchanging ideas about the potential of the Bulgarian Black Sea destination. Representatives such as the CEO of Fraport Twin Star, Dr. Frank Kwante, and Ivan Groshev from the Association of Incoming Agencies presented the advantages of Bulgaria as a travel destination. Other program items included a trip to Nessebar, hotel visits in Sunny Beach and Obzor, and a gala dinner with Bulgarian wines. A thematic workshop for 50 travel agencies deepened the understanding of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The event concluded with positive feedback from the German participants, who praised Bulgaria's potential for tourism recovery. Future events should help establish the country as an attractive travel destination.

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Air Baltic on track: Increasing revenue despite slight decline in passengers

Latvia's national airline, air Baltic, reports a 2024% increase in revenue in May 4 compared to the same period last year, amounting to over EUR 68 million. Although the number of passengers carried decreased slightly by 1% to 434.100 during the same period, this increase in revenue reflects a robust business development that underlines the airline's positive direction. Martin Gauss, President and CEO of air Baltic, commented on the current developments: "In May, air Baltic once again demonstrated solid financial and operational performance, with a significant increase in revenue. The launch of 15 new destinations, including seven new countries in Southeastern Europe, further strengthened our position as the leading connection between the Baltics and the rest of the world. We remain confident that our expansion strategy will boost traffic throughout the Baltic region and beyond." May also marked an increase in Air Baltic's flight activity, with a total of 4.300 flights, an increase of 3% year-on-year. This underlines the airline's continuous efforts to improve its connectivity and optimise the flight experience for passengers. In the coming months, air Baltic plans to further expand its route network and introduce additional pop-up and scheduled flights. Particularly noteworthy is the continuation of operations from the seasonal base in Gran Canaria as well as the introduction of direct flights to a new destination, Madeira. These measures are intended not only to strengthen air Baltic's presence in the southern European region, but also to create new opportunities for passengers who want a direct connection to these attractive regions.

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Nonstop connection in the summer: Bremen-Izmir with SunExpress

The Turkish Aegean coast not only attracts with its beauty, but also with an increased air connection directly from Bremen from this summer. From June 23, 2024, SunExpress will offer travelers four flights a week to Izmir, which are particularly suitable for holidaymakers and business travelers alike. This new route not only provides a connection between Bremen and Izmir, but also between northwest Germany and the sunny shores of the Aegean. The new direct connection between Bremen and Izmir will start with a high frequency of four flights a week during the summer holidays. This means that travelers will have the opportunity to get to Izmir comfortably on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The flight time of just under three hours makes it an attractive option for short trips and longer stays alike. From July 21, 2024, the frequency of flights will be reduced to three times a week to ensure regular connections even after the holidays. The Aegean region around Izmir offers a wealth of attractions to suit every taste. From the historic alleys of the Kemeraltı district in Izmir to the expansive beaches that invite you to relax, there is something for every visitor. The possibility of reaching this diversity directly from Bremen opens up new perspectives for travelers who like to discover new cultures and spend relaxing days on one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in the world.

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Enjoyable journey through the Alps: The Bernina Wine Express

Starting on May 14th and running until October 25th, 2024, the Rhaetian Railway is offering all lovers of rail travel and culinary experiences a unique opportunity: the Bernina Wine Express. This special trip runs from St. Moritz over the spectacular Bernina route to Tirano and back. Especially from Tuesdays to Fridays, travelers can enjoy the impressive nature of the Swiss Alps, while modern panoramic windows offer incomparable views. The Bernina Wine Express promises more than just a train ride: it is an experience for the senses. The journey along the UNESCO World Heritage route of the Bernina Express offers breathtaking views of glaciers, lakes and alpine landscapes. These are complemented by an exclusive culinary adventure that begins in Tirano. There, passengers can enjoy a transfer to the renowned La Gatta winery in Valtellina. History and enjoyment in Valtellina The La Gatta winery is more than just a stop on the journey. It is a place that combines history and modern wine enjoyment. Guests are guided through the picturesque vineyards and have the opportunity to explore the ancient wine cellar. The winery, once a 16th century monastery, offers a fascinating insight into the production and storage of Valtellina red wines. These are famous for their quality and are tasted accompanied by experts. During the visit to the La Gatta winery, four red wines are available for tasting. Each wine tells its own story and reflects the unique climatic conditions of the Valtellina. Guests can look forward to an aperitif accompanied by local specialties. This lunch break becomes a true celebration

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Sea Cloud Cruises: Exclusivity and innovation in the cruise industry

The upcoming 2025 season promises a unique mix of luxury, exclusivity and new offers for sea travelers at Sea Cloud Cruises. The Hamburg-based shipping company recently presented its plans for the year, which not only include special destinations, but also introduce innovative discount structures and new programs. The focus is on the last opportunity to go on a sailing trip with the legendary Sea Cloud before it goes on a longer shipyard stay. A central point in the 2025 season are the extraordinary travel destinations that can only be reached by the classic windjammers of the Sea Cloud fleet. These routes lead not only to small Greek islands and romantic harbors along the Mediterranean coast, but also to other exclusive destinations in Spain, France and Italy. Particular emphasis is placed on the continued privileged mooring option in Venice near St. Mark's Square, which remains accessible to the Sea Cloud ships even in times of "overtourism". New addition Sea Cloud Spirit and innovative programs A highlight of the coming season is the introduction of the Sea Cloud Spirit, which will experience the unique entrance into the lagoon city for the first time on its route from Valetta to Venice. This expansion of the fleet enables Sea Cloud Cruises to further diversify its offering and respond to the growing demand for exclusive cruise experiences. In addition to the classic routes, the shipping company offers new programs such as "Lifestyle and relaxed beats" that are specifically designed to appeal to a younger audience. In order to offer its guests greater planning security and to reward early bookings, Sea Cloud Cruises has revised its discount structure. Instead of flat-rate discounts, there are now

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Lufthansa upgrades Flynet offering

In addition to access to digital magazines, Lufthansa offers its passengers the opportunity to download a variety of eJournals before and during the flight, depending on their travel class and Miles & More status. With around 1.600 titles in 40 languages, there is something for every taste, whether for business reading or personal interests. Another highlight is the newly introduced podcasts on European flights. Via the FlyNet portal, passengers can stream a variety of podcasts in German and English for free from various genres such as business, travel, science and entertainment. Lufthansa is offering its passengers a comprehensive on-board experience, especially for the men's European Football Championship. A live ticker on FlyNet allows passengers to follow the matches in real time on their own devices. In addition, special football magazines are available during the tournament to keep football fans on board fully informed and entertained. The crews on Lufthansa flights also ensure that passengers are regularly informed about current scores in order to make the football experience during the flight as authentic as possible. With these new entertainment options, Lufthansa is setting a new standard for in-flight entertainment in the aviation industry by not only making the flight experience more enjoyable, but also by best serving the needs and preferences of passengers during their journey.

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