MARCH 22, 2023

AIRLINE ON-TIME PERFORMANCE IMPROVED IN JANUARY


The average North American airline on-time performance improved in January after it had dropped significantly in December, reports Business Travel News. According to Cirium's monthly report, the average on-time performance reached 72.2 percent, up from 65.8 percent in December. Every carrier included in January's report showed on-time performance improvement, although most still performed below November 2022 levels. Delta Air Lines took the top spot in January, with 79.9 percent of its scheduled flights arriving on time. American and Alaska followed closely at 79.8 percent and 79.5 percent respectively. For January global on-time performance, Delta was the only North American carrier to make the list, at 10th. The global on-time average was 84.7 percent. A flight is considered on time if the aircraft arrives at the gate within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time.

AMERICAN AIRLINES REOPENS FIRST-CLASS LOUNGE AT LONDON HEATHROW


American Airlines has reopened its International First Class Lounge at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), reports Travel Weekly. The airline had closed the lounge during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as a safety measure. During the closure, the lounge has undergone a "cosmetic refresh," including updated fixtures and the installation of a fully fire-rated kitchen. The updated kitchen allows for the lounge's kitchen team to provide a wide-ranging buffet alongside an a la carte menu. The Heathrow International First Class Lounge is located in the airport's Terminal H. It is open from 5:30 am to 7:00 pm daily to first-class travelers flying on American or another Oneworld alliance carrier. Emerald status members of Oneworld can use the lounge when flying domestically on a same-day Oneworld flight. The lounge has space for 120 guests.

TSA CHIEF SAYS BIOMETRICS COULD LOWER TRAVEL STRESS


The head of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), David Pekoske, says facial recognition and biometric technology could lower stress for travelers at airports, reports Travel Pulse. Pekoske said an increase in the technology would speed up security lines at airports even further, improving wait times and making it easier for travelers to reach their gates in plenty of time. “It’s critically important that this system has as little friction as it possibly can, while we provide for safety and security,” he said, adding that the new technology the agency is using is more than 99 percent effective compared to the technology TSA was using just a few years ago. “We’re upgrading our camera systems all the time, upgrading our lighting systems. We’re upgrading our algorithms, so that we are using the very most advanced algorithms and technology we possibly can.”

AMTRAK TO FULLY RESTORE ADIRONDACK SERVICE BETWEEN NEW YORK AND CANADA


Amtrak, in conjunction with VIA Rail Canada (VIA Rail), New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), and other federal agencies, has announced the resumption of the Adirondack train service between New York City and Montreal beginning Monday, April 3. The line had been suspended since 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Amtrak, the first northbound Adirondack train will depart Moynihan Train Hall at New York Penn Station (NYP) at 8:41 am on Monday, April 3, and arrive in Canada’s Gare Centrale/Central Station in Montreal at 8:16 pm. The first southbound Adirondack train will depart Montreal at 11:10 am on Tuesday, April 4, and arrive at NYP at 10:15 pm. Destinations along the Adirondack route include Albany-Rensselaer, Poughkeepsie, Saratoga Springs, and Schenectady, NY. New York State and Montreal travelers and visitors can expect the same amenities onboard on the Adirondack as they do on most Amtrak trains, including free Wi-Fi, the freedom to use phones and mobile devices at all times (no “airplane mode”), the ability to travel with small pets within the US, a café car, large spacious seats with ample leg room, and no middle seat.

AIRLINES FEAR EMISSIONS WILL EXCEED INDUSTRY LIMITS AMID INCREASED DEMAND


Data from an airline industry trade group indicate increasing international flight demand will result in emissions-related limitations proposed by the United Nations being reached by 2024, reports Travel Pulse. International Air Transport Association (IATA) said current air traffic recovery may exceed an emissions limit established by the UN under the first phase of its Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) by the end of next year. The CORSIA plan would cap emissions from international flights at 85 percent of 2019 levels. As part of the first phase, airlines will be permitted to purchase offsets to meet industry standards. While the first phase is voluntary, CORSIA becomes mandatory in 2027. During that time, carriers from more than 100 participating countries would be forced to offset the rising emissions. As a result, airlines have already started purchasing carbon credits. In response, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said offsetting amounts associated with CORSIA’s first phase requirements would be calculated in 2026.

BILTMORE HOTEL MIAMI CORAL GABLES

1200 ANASTASIA AVENUE

CORAL GABLES

Experience the height of luxury at Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables. Let the senses be enticed by the opulent surroundings and breathtaking views. Relax and indulge in the full experience this Miami luxury hotel has to offer including lush rooms and the undeniable sun-drenched atmosphere. Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Fontana, an outdoor poolside oasis at Cascade, or enjoy the golf view and casual dining at the 19th Hole Sports Bar and Grill. Graced with effortless beauty and sophistication, the Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables is a National Historic Landmark located in the exclusive Coral Gables area.

EATON DC

1201 K STREET NW

WASHINGTON, DC

Eaton DC in downtown Washington, DC, is a welcoming and inclusive cultural hub for kindred spirits, locals, and travelers alike, to convene, collaborate, and create. Within walking distance of the Smithsonian museums, Black Lives Matter Plaza, Capitol Hill, and the Convention Center, guests can be a part of the culture of a world-class city and enjoy the comforts of a boutique hotel. Guestrooms are the sanctuary at Eaton DC - a respite from a hard day’s work or a long day’s journey. Beyond the usual creature comforts, the rooms feature a curated collection of vinyl, books from Eaton DC’s library, Himalayan salt lamps, and artwork to nourish the soul while the body and mind rest.

KIMPTON HOTEL PALOMAR PHILADELPHIA

117 SOUTH 17TH STREET

PHILADELPHIA

Old-school architecture and Art Deco inspired décor go together like Hepburn and Tracy at Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia. This comfortably sophisticated retreat has all kinds of bragging rights: four-star rated LEED-certified, cityscape views, unabashedly grand suites, and location - right in Rittenhouse Square for easy access to the best of the city. Once home to the American Institute of Architects, Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia comes with a high quotient of history and style and is perfect for both leisure and business travel. 


Ovation clients will receive a complimentary upgrade for all stays until April 30, 2023. 

MILLENNIUM PREMIER

NEW YORK TIMES SQUARE

133 WEST 44TH STREET

NEW YORK CITY

While Broadway and Times Square are right outside the door in Midtown Manhattan, all the hustle and bustle of the city will be checked at the door once guests arrive at Millennium Premier New York Times Square. Instead, guests will experience refreshingly friendly staff and a relaxing spot to unwind in the heart of the city. With this incredible location, savvy travelers will love the value of a family-friendly, 4-star comfort hotel in central New York. Whatever guests have planned on the next adventure in the ‘City that Never Sleeps,' Millennium Premier New York Times Square promises to keep it quiet.

SOHO GRAND HOTEL

310 WEST BROADWAY

NEW YORK CITY

Stylish, spacious, and layered with light, Soho Grand Hotel's newly renovated guest rooms, terrace suites, and two sprawling penthouse lofts reflect the luxury and creative energy of the neighborhood. Standing seventeen stories tall, most windows frame a stunning view of Downtown Manhattan. Custom designed work desks, smart TV's, Marshall speakers, premium complimentary Wi-Fi, and motorized window shades offer touches of modern comfort while In-room dining, fully stocked local gourmet minibars, and Nespresso machines will keep guests nourished. The Grand Bar & Salon, featuring over 50 classic American Whiskeys and nightly vinyl deejays, is the perfect spot for premium client entertainment. Club Room showcases live jazz and a vibrant cocktail & dining experience while Soho Diner serves up modern twists on quality classics. Thoughtfully situated in SoHo and accessible to all major subway lines and notable downtown destinations.

THE JOULE

1530 MAIN STREET

DALLAS

The Joule is the cultural hub of downtown Dallas. A revitalized, Neo-gothic landmark in a thriving urban setting. A dining, retail destination, and neighborhood gathering place all wrapped in a luxury boutique hotel. An oasis for design lovers, art admirers, and appreciators of the uncommon, The Joule’s 160-room resort presents the unique opportunity to be in the center of it all. Dine at an Italian-style restaurant Sassetta, or take a local journey through Texas at CBD Provisions; enjoy hand-crafted beverages at Midnight Rambler, the subterranean cocktail lounge, and experience true relaxation at an award-winning spa. Check in and prepare to check out from the ordinary. From the minute guests enter through The Joule's large brass doors, guests can be sure of being taken care of. Stay for work, linger for play - The Joule knows the best ways to do both in style.

THE MAY FAIR, A RADISSON COLLECTION HOTEL

STRATTON STREET

LONDON

The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel, is set in the heart of one of the most sought-after addresses in the world. Opened in 1927, The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel was the first new hotel to open in the British capital in over 20 years. Inaugurated by King George V and Queen Mary, the hotel quickly became a playground for London's high society. Today, while eminent spaces and glimmering Baccarat chandeliers remain, the hotel has transformed into a contemporary boutique getaway, known for its timeless elegance and charm. Proud to be the Official Hotel to London Fashion Week, The May Fair, a Radisson Collection Hotel enjoys some of the largest bedrooms in London, including an iconic collection of suites, world-class food and drink at the award-winning restaurant, May Fair Kitchen, a vibrant bar, secluded terrace, stunning event spaces and tranquil spa.

TRAVEL RESOURCES GUIDE
Facebook  Twitter  Linkedin  

GBT Travel Services UK Limited (GBT UK) and its authorized sublicensees (including Ovation Travel Group and Egencia) use certain trademarks and service marks of American Express Company or its subsidiaries (American Express) in the “American Express Global Business Travel” and “American Express Meetings & Events” brands and in connection with its business for permitted uses only under a limited license from American Express (Licensed Marks). The Licensed Marks are trademarks or service marks of, and the property of, American Express. GBT UK is a subsidiary of Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE: GBTG). American Express holds a minority interest in GBTG, which operates as a separate company from American Express.