Indian airline IndiGo orders 30 Airbus A350 widebody planes
Indian airline IndiGo said on Sunday it had signed an order for 30 more Airbus A350-900s, bringing its shopping list for the widebody aircraft from the European aircraft manufacturer to 60.
'We are placing a firm order for 30 Airbus A350-900s,' said Pieter Elbers, the CEO of IndiGo, a company founded in 2006 and already behind the largest contract by volume in the history of civil aviation -- 500 Airbus single-aisle aircraft by 2023.
The Indian low-cost carrier, the country's biggest by market share, is positioning itself as a significant player in the long-haul market.
'This strategic move will enable IndiGo to spread its wings further and expand its long-haul international network', the company said in a statement.
'This is yet another step in defining the airline's long-term plans of international expansion'.
The A350 planes, with ranges of up to 15,000 kilometres (9,300 miles), will allow it to further expand its network.
Overall, IndiGo has placed orders for around 1,000 aircraft from the A320 family, Airbus's most successful model and rival of the Boeing 737 MAX, which has endured multiple setbacks after a series of safety scares.
Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which began its annual industry conference in New Delhi on Sunday, said 'the development of India's air connectivity in recent years has been nothing short of phenomenal'.
Indian domestic air growth is 'running at over 10 percent' per year, Walsh said, ahead of the conference.
The growth of its economy has made India and its 1.4 billion people the world's fourth-largest air market -- domestic and international -- with IATA projecting it will become the third biggest within the decade.
Last year, India's domestic air passenger traffic reached a 'historic milestone, surpassing 500,000 passengers in a single day', according to India's Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Railways remain hugely popular but travelling by trains crisscrossing a country about three-quarters the area of the European Union is often slow and chaotic.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is slated to address IATA delegates on Monday, has made the development of the air sector a priority since coming to power in 2014.
Separately, the International Air Transport Association said on Sunday it expects the amount of sustainable aviation fuel produced to double in 2025 to reach 2 million tonnes, representing 0.7% of airlines' fuel consumption.
Influential industry body IATA has increasingly been warning that airlines will struggle to meet their sustainability goals, and has described the production of SAF - which is more expensive than conventional jet fuel - as disappointingly slow.
Agencies
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Business
2 hours ago
- Gulf Business
Airbus deliveries fell 4% in May
Image credit: Getty Images Airbus delivered around 51 airplanes in May, industry sources said, down 4 per cent from the same month last year. The tally brings deliveries so far this year to around 243 aircraft, down 5 per cent from the first five months of 2024. Read- The world's largest planemaker faces growing pressure from airlines over delays in deliveries as it aims for a 7 per cent increase in handovers to customers for the full year to 820 aircraft. Airlines holding their annual gathering in New Delhi this week criticised manufacturers for supply problems that have persisted for several years since the pandemic. Airbus has said it expects the delays, caused in part by slow arrivals of engines, to stabilise during the summer.
Arabian Post
3 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Oil Prices Rise on OPEC+ Supply Restraint and Geopolitical Tensions
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Oil prices strengthened sharply as OPEC+ agreed to a modest increase in production, falling short of some market expectations, while escalating geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and Iran added further upward pressure. West Texas Intermediate crude futures climbed 2.8%, settling near $63 per barrel, reflecting a cautious market balancing supply concerns against demand uncertainties. The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies approved a production boost of 411,000 barrels per day for July, a figure that surprised some analysts who anticipated a larger output increase. This decision followed extensive negotiations marked by dissent from several members, including Russia, which has historically played a pivotal role in the alliance's supply management. The group's choice to limit production growth indicates a strategic effort to maintain price support amid a volatile global economic outlook. ADVERTISEMENT Within the alliance, certain countries advocated for a pause in the output hike, citing lingering uncertainties in global demand recovery and concerns over market oversupply. This internal division has led financial institutions to offer contrasting forecasts on OPEC+ policy direction for the coming months. Some banks now expect additional gradual supply increases to ease pressure on energy markets, while others warn of a more restrained approach to sustain price levels. Market participants are also closely monitoring the geopolitical landscape, which has become a significant factor influencing oil prices. The conflict in Ukraine continues to disrupt supply chains and has led to concerns over potential shortages in European energy markets. The war has prompted a reconfiguration of energy trade flows, with European countries seeking alternatives to Russian crude and refined products amid sanctions and supply restrictions. Meanwhile, escalating tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear programme and regional activities have heightened fears of disruptions in the Middle East, a region critical to global oil supply. The possibility of renewed sanctions or military confrontation has contributed to risk premiums embedded in crude prices. Iranian officials have issued statements warning against external interference, further adding to the geopolitical uncertainties that traders are factoring into their decisions. The market's response to these developments reflects a complex interplay between supply management by OPEC+ and external geopolitical risks. While the alliance's measured increase in output signals a cautious optimism about demand recovery, the persistent threats to supply continuity underscore the fragility of the current energy market balance. This dynamic has led to increased volatility in oil prices as traders weigh the prospects of tighter supply against potential disruptions. Analysts note that global oil inventories remain a critical indicator of market health. Recent data show stocks in key consuming regions have fluctuated, influenced by varying rates of economic activity and shifts in fuel consumption patterns. The International Energy Agency has highlighted that while demand has strengthened, it faces headwinds from inflationary pressures and a slower-than-expected economic rebound in several major economies. ADVERTISEMENT Energy firms and investors are responding to the evolving scenario by adjusting their strategies. Some producers are exercising caution in ramping up output, mindful of price swings and regulatory challenges. Investment in exploration and production continues to be scrutinised in light of global energy transition policies and commitments to reduce carbon emissions, factors that could constrain long-term supply growth. The global energy market is also observing shifts in trade flows as refiners and consumers adapt to changing supply sources. Countries in Asia and Europe are recalibrating their crude procurement strategies to mitigate risks and capitalise on price movements. This realignment is creating new patterns of demand that could influence OPEC+ decisions and broader market trends going forward. Despite these complexities, market analysts caution that the oil market remains sensitive to any significant geopolitical escalation or unexpected shifts in production policies. The interplay between supply discipline by producing nations and geopolitical developments will continue to be key drivers of price direction. The potential for further volatility remains high as global economic conditions evolve and political uncertainties persist. Financial institutions remain divided on how aggressively OPEC+ will pursue production hikes in the coming months. Some expect a gradual easing of supply constraints if demand shows sustained improvement, while others predict continued restraint to maintain price support amid ongoing global uncertainties.
Arabian Post
3 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Ascott Grows The Crest Collection in East Asia and the Middle East, Extending the Brand's Heritage-Inspired Luxury Beyond Europe and Southeast Asia
Added new locations in Japan, China, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, including the brand's first resort La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection is set to open soon, bringing the brand's number of operating properties in Southeast Asia to four Launches The Crest Chronicles, the inaugural brand programme celebrating the unique heritage stories that define each property and enrich guest experiences SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 June 2025 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), is accelerating the global expansion of its European-born luxury brand, The Crest Collection, in response to growing demand from luxury travellers for distinctive, heritage-rich stays. Over the past six months, the brand has gained strong momentum across East Asia and the Middle East, adding over 1,200 units from four new signings and one opening. The portfolio now comprises 16 properties with over 2,700 units, both operational and in the pipeline, across 11 countries and 13 cities. As a key brand within the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) programme, The Crest Collection enhances the diversity of the ASR portfolio, offering members a broader range of luxury options and more opportunities to experience heritage-inspired stays around the world. Opening in the second half of 2029, SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection will mark the luxury brand's debut in Japan. Among the newest additions in East Asia is SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection, set to open in the second half of 2029, marking the brand's debut in Japan. Also contributing to growth in the region are two developments in China: Hong Yuan Hotel by The Crest Collection, which opened in Haikou, Hainan Province, at the end of last year, and a property slated to open by mid-2026 in Wuhan's Donghu New Technology Development Zone, commonly known as Optics Valley. In the Middle East, Al Mahra Resort by The Crest Collection – the brand's first resort and its debut in the United Arab Emirates – will open in early 2027, to be followed by the brand's first property in Saudi Arabia, opening in Riyadh in 2028. This expansion into East Asia and the Middle East builds on the brand's growing traction in Southeast Asia. La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, set to open in mid-2025, will become the brand's fourth property in the region, following the 2023 debut of The Grand Mansion Menteng by The Crest Collection in Indonesia, The George Penang by The Crest Collection in Malaysia and The Robertson House by The Crest Collection in Singapore. Meanwhile, the brand's seven other operational and pipeline properties are located across Europe, where The Crest Collection was first established in 2016. ADVERTISEMENT Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: 'Interest in luxury stays continues to rise in Asia and the Middle East, driven by travellers seeking meaningful connections to the region's rich culture and heritage. The Crest Collection meets this aspiration with its 'A Story Behind Every Door' brand promise, delivering culturally immersive experiences enriched by each property's distinctive identity, while enabling owners to tap into the strength of Ascott's global commercial ecosystem. Supported by our flex-hybrid model and multi-typology brand strategy, The Crest Collection is highly conversion-friendly, adapting seamlessly across serviced residences, hotels, resorts and other accommodation types. While recent signings highlight new builds such as the brand's first resort, its adaptability also makes it ideal for property conversions that enable swift time-to-market. By tailoring solutions to the unique demands of each location, our market-driven approach empowers us to respond to evolving traveller expectations with agility and deliver sustained value for owners.' The luxury travel sector is projected to grow from US$1.4 trillion in 2024 to US$2.2 trillion by 2030, driven not just by affluence among the wealthy but also by younger travellers who are willing to pay top dollar for meaningful experiences[1]. With luxury travellers drawn to destinations that excite, along with surprising environments and experiences that speak to their individuality[2], it is clear that the true essence of luxury lies in celebrating unique stories rather than uniformity. Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott said: 'Curating experiences that resonate with the expectations of the most discerning travellers has become the currency of modern luxury. Our most affluent guests are seeking emotional connection, personal transformation and cultural resonance. By integrating heritage narratives with thoughtfully curated hospitality, The Crest Collection offers our guests a luxurious and storied experience rooted in the unique identity of each property and its locale. Defined not only by what is provided, but by what is remembered, every stay at a Crest Collection property reflects Ascott's boutique lens on luxury – one that nurtures individuality and crafts hyper-localised, distinctive experiences that engage all the senses. This approach allows us to offer timeless sophistication, elevated by bespoke touches that reflect the spirit of each destination. As The Crest Collection expands from Europe to Asia and the Middle East, we remain dedicated to redefining modern luxury through evocative, story-driven experiences that deliver meaningful moments with purpose and creativity.' Distinctive Heritage Stories Shape The Crest Collection's Luxury Expansion With every addition, The Crest Collection reinforces its vision of heritage-inspired hospitality. Each property brings local culture to life through design, storytelling and immersive guest experiences. ADVERTISEMENT Slated to open in mid 2025, the 115-unit La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection artfully blends French Art de Vivre with cherished Thai heritage, offering a range of premium amenities including a luxurious swimming pool, rejuvenating onsen, residents' lounge and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, opening in mid-2025, is situated near Thong Lo BTS station on the historically significant Sukhumvit Soi 38. The 115-unit luxury serviced residence artfully blends French Art de Vivre with cherished Thai heritage, offering a range of premium amenities including a luxurious swimming pool, rejuvenating onsen, inviting residents' lounge and state-of-the-art fitness centre. Beyond easy access to upscale shopping destinations, vibrant entertainment venues and top-tier medical facilities, guests can look forward to a refined selection of studios and one- to two-bedroom apartments, each thoughtfully designed to embody the timeless elegance and rich legacy of its distinguished location. The upcoming SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection is part of the landmark Yaesu 1-Chome North District Type 1 Urban Redevelopment Project, located near Tokyo Station in the Yaesu district. The property's name pays tribute to its location, historically known as Gofuku-cho (Kimono Fabric Town) during the Edo period, once home to prestigious kimono fabric shops patronised by the shogunate and the Imperial Household. The district's rich heritage of delicate artistry and craftsmanship will be brought to life through the design and storytelling of this luxury hotel-in-residence, which features 92 guestrooms designed for both short and extended stays. Hong Yuan Hotel by The Crest Collection, which opened late last year in Haikou, China, draws inspiration from the city's historic role as a key gateway on the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Located in the Jiangdong New District of the Hainan Free Trade Port, the 261-key hotel blends Song Dynasty aesthetics with modern luxury. Guests are immersed in a richly storied environment – from copper screen partitions in the lobby and architecture echoing Song-era design, to Chinese paintings depicting maritime trade scenes in the restaurant, all reflecting Haikou's historic role as a hub of global cultural and commercial exchange. The upcoming property in Wuhan's Optics Valley will further grow The Crest Collection's presence in China, offering a narrative rooted in the city's academic and innovation heritage at the heart of a national high-tech development zone. Al Mahra Resort by The Crest Collection located on Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, takes its name from the Arabic word 'mahra', referring to a young female horse – a symbol of youthful grace, strength and noble spirit in Bedouin heritage. Reflecting these qualities, the 539-key beachfront resort will blend Arabian heritage with contemporary design, offering guests an experience rooted in the UAE's rich equestrian and cultural legacy. The Crest Collection will also make its debut in Saudi Arabia when it opens in Riyadh, offering bespoke hospitality in the Kingdom's capital with a stay experience inspired by local culture. Strategically located on King Fahd Road and surrounded by key commercial and lifestyle hubs, the property will house a selection of accommodation options spanning elegant hotel rooms, serviced apartments, and suites, catering to both leisure and business travellers. Guests can expect access to an array of premium amenities, including specialty dining restaurants, a signature 'Reading Room' lounge and café, and comprehensive wellness facilities featuring a pool, gym, and treatment rooms. The property will also offer state-of-the-art meeting and multi-functional spaces. The Crest Chronicles: Showcasing Heritage and Hospitality at The Crest Collection Through a carefully curated series of activations spanning gastronomy, literature, architecture, art and performance, The Crest Chronicles brand programme brings heritage stories to life at each property within The Crest Collection. From culinary events that evoke the flavours of the past to literary legacies that immerse guests in historic narratives, this programme reveals the stories behind every door. In Paris, France, La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris by The Crest Collection, the flagship property that launched the brand, has hosted Cognac Heritage Tastings featuring three exceptional eaux-de-vie – Hennessy, A.E. Dor and Koya – offering guests a unique journey through fine cognacs and brandies inspired by the heritage of the former Hennessy family mansion, now home to the hotel. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can explore the 1889 Exposition Universelle through a Literary Display opening mid-June in the lobby of La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris by The Crest Collection. At Hong Yuan Hotel by The Crest Collection in Haikou, China, guests can immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the Song Dynasty, the hotel's key design inspiration. Titled 'The Four Refinements of the Song Dynasty', year-round activities include tea tastings, floral arrangement workshops, incense crafting, art appreciation and guqin performances. Complementing these experiences, a thoughtfully curated culinary menu inspired by the 24 solar terms of Chinese culture promotes health, relaxation and seasonal nourishment. Hong Yuan Hotel by The Crest Collection draws inspiration from Haikou's historic role as a key gateway on the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Starting early June in Singapore, cocktail aficionados can toast to the rich history of The Robertson House by The Crest Collection through a series of cocktail workshops that tell the story of the locale with expertly crafted spirits. Discover more about The Crest Chronicles at Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #Growth The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About The Ascott Limited The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of over 990 properties across 230 cities in over 40 countries, Ascott's presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello. Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey. As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related earnings by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds. For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit Alternatively, connect with Ascott on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn. About CapitaLand Investment Limited Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 March 2025, CLI had S$117 billion of funds under management held via stakes in seven listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres, private credit and special opportunities. CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group's development arm. In 2025, CapitaLand Group celebrates 25 years of excellence in real estate and continues to innovate and shape the industry. As a responsible company, CLI places sustainability at the core of what it does and has committed to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2050. CLI contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders.
