Hours after the DOT gave JetBlue the green light for its partnership with United, executives said they are looking to expand its travel tech platform to include more airlines and other travel companies.

JetBlue president Marty St. George said Tuesday that the company is talking to additional airlines and other travel companies about potentially expanding its travel tech platform.

The carrier recently rebranded JetBlue Travel Products into Paisly following the announcement of its partnership with United Airlines. As part of the tie-up, Paisly is expected to power United’s sales of hotels, packages, cars, cruises, and travel insurance.

“We are talking to additional airlines over and above United,” St. George said during an earnings call with analysts on Tuesday. “And in fact, we’re talking to some non-airlines.”

Aeroitalia and Qatar Airways Expand Travel Options for Italian Travelers with New Interline Agreement

Aeroitalia fast expanding Italian carrier announces a phenomenal interline and special prorate agreement (SPA) with Qatar Airways on Jul 22 2025. This key step in the growing strategic partnership is an important opportunity for Aeroitalia to expand internationally, as through this partnership it enables passengers from Italy to connect with the global network of Qatar Airways.

Qatar Airways, known for their extensive network connecting more than 170 destinations from Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH), maintains their industry leading position as a global travel favorite. Under the new agreement, Aeroitalia flyers are now able to book connections from a number of Italian airports – including Catania, Comiso, Cagliari, Olbia, Palermo – to destinations across the world, through Doha. The deal also attracts connecting passengers from Milan Malpensa Airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport to Qatar Airways’ global network beyond Doha, offering additional options for long-haul passengers to travel to and from Italy.

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This partnership marks an important step in Aeroitalia’s ambition to expand beyond its domestic market and reach more international passengers. Since its debut in 2022, the airline has made significant strides in developing a network that connects key Italian cities to various destinations. The new deal with Qatar Airways follows closely after Aeroitalia’s interline and SPA agreement with Air France-KLM and Delta Air Lines, which took effect in July 2025. Together, these partnerships broaden Aeroitalia’s reach, providing customers with an even wider range of travel opportunities, both in Europe and globally.

Aeroitalia currently operates domestic routes that connect major Italian cities, such as Milan, Rome, and Palermo, to several European and Mediterranean destinations. The airline’s international network includes popular cities like Bucharest, Brno, Lublin, and Ibiza. By aligning with Qatar Airways, Aeroitalia can now offer passengers improved connectivity to a variety of international hubs, including Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, through Qatar Airways’ extensive route map.

For Qatar Airways, the agreement represents another step towards strengthening its foothold in the Italian market. The airline has long been committed to increasing its presence in Italy and expanding access for its passengers to the country’s popular tourist and business destinations. Qatar Airways first made waves in Italy in 2017 when it acquired a 49% stake in AQA Holding, the parent company of Air Italy. This venture aimed to enhance Qatar Airways’ service offering to Italian travelers but was met with challenges, including the eventual shutdown of Air Italy in 2020.

Despite these obstacles, Qatar Airways continues to seek ways to grow its operations in Italy. The new agreement with Aeroitalia provides an ideal opportunity to fill the gaps left by Air Italy’s closure, offering more connections from smaller Italian cities to the Middle East and beyond. Currently, Qatar Airways operates services from Italy’s primary airports, such as Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, and Venice Marco Polo. However, this new partnership with Aeroitalia expands the airline’s access to additional regions, making it easier for travelers in secondary cities to connect to Qatar Airways’ global network.

This collaboration is particularly valuable for passengers flying from smaller airports in Italy. Many Italian travelers from cities such as Catania, Palermo, and Olbia previously had limited options for connecting to global destinations via Qatar Airways. Now, with this new partnership, they can enjoy convenient one-stop connections through Doha, linking them to the airline’s extensive global network.

In addition to expanding connectivity, the agreement with Qatar Airways is a significant achievement for Aeroitalia, which has been steadily growing its presence in the aviation industry. The airline’s expanding network is complemented by its growing fleet and increasing demand for its domestic and international routes. As Aeroitalia continues to enhance its services, this partnership with Qatar Airways positions it for further success in the competitive international aviation market.

Looking ahead, the partnership with Qatar Airways will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in Aeroitalia’s global strategy. As both airlines work together to provide seamless travel experiences for their passengers, the agreement is expected to open up new opportunities for travelers seeking greater flexibility and access to more destinations.

The Aeroitalia/Qatar Airways collaboration is a win-win for both airlines and a win for passengers at regional airports in Italy. Qatar Airways’ momentum in Italy and Aeroitalia’s growing presence outside of Italy raises the bar on delivering performance improvement for passengers while fostering a cohesive travel experience, allowing for connections to the world to be better, quicker and more productive.

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China Airlines Expands US Reach With New Phoenix Service And Southwest Partnership

China Airlines is establishing a significant new connection between Asia and the American Southwest with its first-ever Taipei–Phoenix route, scheduled to launch December 3, 2025. In making this courageous move, Phoenix has not only affirmed itself as a new gateway for Asia, but has further consolidated China Airlines’ expanding presence in Trans-Pacific aviation. Connecting Taiwan to virgin air territory and partnered seamlessly with Southwest Airlines for travel within the US, the airline is in turn connecting an undiscovered region within Asia-Pacific to Taiwan—ushering in a new era of exchange between the two regions, both in terms of travel and commerce, as well as culturally and beyond.

China Airlines to Launch New Taipei–Phoenix Route in December, Marking a Major Milestone in U.S. Network Expansion

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In a landmark move redefining Asia–US air travel, China Airlines (CAL), Taiwan’s flagship carrier and a key SkyTeam alliance member, has announced the launch of a pioneering route that will directly connect the vibrant capital of Taipei with the rising desert metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona—marking a historic first in transpacific connectivity. This strategic move, set to begin on December 3, 2025, will mark the first-ever direct air link between Phoenix and the Asia-Pacific region, opening up significant travel and trade possibilities between the two markets.

Strengthening CAL’s North American Presence

With the addition of Phoenix to its growing list of North American destinations, CAL continues to expand its trans-Pacific footprint. The new route will become the airline’s seventh destination in North America, complementing its existing services to New York, Los Angeles, Ontario, San Francisco, Seattle, and Vancouver. Currently operating 40 round-trip flights per week across North America, CAL’s entry into Phoenix aims to deepen connectivity and bolster U.S.-Asia travel demand as global aviation continues its recovery.

Flight Schedule and Aircraft Details

The new Taipei–Phoenix route will operate three times per week—on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Departures from Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) are scheduled at 10:55 AM, arriving at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) at 8:00 AM on the same day, thanks to the time difference. On the return leg, the inbound flight from Phoenix will make a stopover in Los Angeles before continuing on to Taipei—a minor detour that still ensures passenger convenience while optimizing aircraft logistics.

The service will be operated using CAL’s Airbus A350-900, a state-of-the-art aircraft offering a three-class configuration—Premium Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. Engineered for next-generation performance, the Airbus A350 delivers unmatched range, whisper-quiet cabins, and an elevated inflight experience that sets a new benchmark in long-haul aviation—making it the ultimate aircraft to power China Airlines’ ambitious leap across the Pacific.

Direct Competition with STARLUX Airlines

The CAL announcement comes just weeks before STARLUX Airlines, another major Taiwanese carrier, is set to debut its own Taipei–Phoenix route in January 2026. STARLUX will also operate the route three times a week using an Airbus A350-900, but with a key operational difference: its flights will run nonstop in both directions, unlike CAL’s one-way Los Angeles stopover on the return.

This direct competition between two Taiwanese carriers on a previously untapped U.S. route signals the growing demand and strategic importance of the Phoenix market. While both airlines are catering to similar passenger segments, their partnership networks differ: CAL has teamed up with Southwest Airlines, while STARLUX has established a relationship with Alaska Airlines for onward connections in the U.S.

Why Phoenix?

Commonly known as “The Valley of the Sun,” Phoenix is not just Arizona’s capital but also its largest city. With over 1.6 million residents, it’s one of the fastest-growing urban hubs in the United States. Beyond its economic clout, Phoenix is a major tourist gateway to iconic Southwestern natural attractions like the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend.

The city’s primary airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International, serves as a crucial domestic hub, particularly for Southwest Airlines, which operates more than 30 flights per hour during peak travel times. CAL’s strategic alliance with Southwest will significantly enhance passenger transfer options across the United States, especially for those traveling to and from smaller cities that lack international service.

A Boost to Trade, Tourism, and Business

CAL’s new service is expected to have a considerable economic impact on both Taiwan and the U.S. Southwest. Direct air links are crucial enablers of international trade, and Phoenix—with its growing technology, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors—offers promising opportunities for business exchanges.

Additionally, the route will make it easier for Taiwanese tourists to explore the American Southwest, while also attracting more U.S. travelers and businesspeople to Taiwan, a global hub for semiconductors, electronics, and cultural tourism.

This new connection also complements Taiwan’s efforts to deepen its international footprint and support bilateral ties with major U.S. cities outside the traditional coastal gateways.

Enhancing Connectivity Through Airline Partnerships

A significant feature of CAL’s Phoenix launch is its interline partnership with Southwest Airlines, the largest domestic airline in the U.S. by network size. Through this collaboration, CAL passengers arriving in Phoenix can easily continue their journeys to over 100 destinations across the U.S., all under a single booking.

This seamless transfer model reduces layover times and baggage hassles while enhancing customer experience, particularly for long-haul travelers connecting to interior U.S. cities like Denver, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and Austin.

In comparison, STARLUX’s U.S. domestic connectivity is built around Alaska Airlines, which also operates an expansive network out of Phoenix, especially along the West Coast. This competitive dynamic provides passengers with multiple options and increases Phoenix’s visibility as a truly global hub.

Looking Ahead

China Airlines’ entry into Phoenix signals a powerful expansion push, elevating its influence across the Pacific aviation corridor. As travel between Asia and North America continues to rebound, CAL’s continued investment in new markets signals a robust post-pandemic recovery strategy.

By tapping into underserved cities like Phoenix, CAL not only diversifies its route portfolio but also strengthens Taiwan’s role in the global aviation network. The move also reflects broader trends in the airline industry, where secondary U.S. cities are gaining prominence as viable international gateways, thanks to population growth, economic development, and airport infrastructure improvements.

With direct Taipei–Phoenix service now available from China Airlines, this marks a milestone for Asia–U. S. air travel. In addition to offering new access to the American Southwest for travelers in Taiwan, it will greatly enhance connectivity to the Arizona capital. With the rivalry between STARLUX and CAL heating up, passengers are likely to enjoy better service, more choices, and more seamless connections on either side of the Pacific.

China Airlines is launching direct Taipei–Phoenix flights to bridge a critical gap in trans-Pacific travel, marking Phoenix’s first-ever air link to Asia. The move strengthens Taiwan–US connectivity and expands China Airlines’ reach into underserved American markets.

With direct Taipei–Phoenix service now available from China Airlines, this marks a milestone for Asia–U. S. air travel. In addition to offering new access to the American Southwest for travelers in Taiwan, it will greatly enhance connectivity to the Arizona capital. With the rivalry between STARLUX and CAL heating up, passengers are likely to enjoy better service, more choices, and more seamless connections on either side of the Pacific.

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WestJet and Kenya Airways Expand Global Connectivity with New Partnership

WestJet and Kenya Airways have unveiled a new interline partnership that promises to enhance connectivity between Canada and Africa. The two airlines will work together to offer passengers smoother more convenient travel options linking Canadian cities like Toronto, Calgary, Halifax, and St. John’s with a variety of destinations across Africa through Kenya Airways’ hub in Nairobi. This partnership opens up access to several African destinations, including major cities like Cape Town, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Addis Ababa, providing Canadian travelers with new opportunities to explore one of the world’s most dynamic continents.

The move reflects both airlines’ commitment to expanding their reach and making international travel more accessible. By creating a seamless travel experience, WestJet and Kenya Airways aim to offer affordable and efficient flight options to business and leisure travelers alike. With this collaboration, passengers can now enjoy more options, reduced layover times, and simplified booking processes.

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The Benefits of the New Interline Agreement for Travelers

One of the main advantages of this new interline agreement is the ease with which passengers can now travel between Canada and Africa. Previously, travelers from Canada had limited options for direct flights to African countries. With this partnership, passengers will benefit from the convenience of booking a single ticket that covers the entire journey, making travel more straightforward and affordable. This is especially significant for Canadians seeking to visit family, explore new cultural experiences, or conduct business in Africa.

Additionally, through-checked baggage and coordinated flight schedules will ensure a seamless transition from one flight to the next, eliminating the need for passengers to check in again or deal with luggage transfers during layovers. This convenience adds another layer of customer satisfaction and is expected to make the experience far more enjoyable for those traveling long distances.

Expanding Travel Options from Canada to Africa

Canadian travelers seeking to visit Africa often faced complicated itineraries involving multiple airlines, long layovers, and unpredictable flight schedules. However, with the WestJet-Kenya Airways partnership, passengers can now fly from major Canadian hubs like Toronto and Calgary, with a single transfer in Nairobi, to popular African destinations such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, Accra, and Nairobi. These new travel options open up a world of possibilities for Canadians interested in exploring Africa’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich histories.

This strategic move also benefits Africa-based travelers who will now have access to more streamlined travel options to North American cities, including various key destinations in Canada. The improved connectivity is expected to encourage increased tourism and foster business ties between the two regions.

Enhanced Customer Experience and Flexibility

This collaboration between WestJet and Kenya Airways aims to make the travel experience more flexible and customer-friendly. Passengers will now benefit from enhanced booking flexibility, better flight coordination and access to a wider range of services. These improvements help passengers avoid long layovers and additional expenses typically associated with multi-leg international flights. Furthermore, the new system also provides better integration for travelers flying both from Canada and to Canada from African destinations.

The airlines are also planning to provide more options for families, frequent flyers, and business travelers, ensuring a tailored and personalized experience across both carriers. While Kenya Airways offers a robust network within Africa, WestJet is known for its accessibility and affordability within North America, making this partnership a win-win for both airlines and their customers.

Strategic Impact for Both Airlines and African Tourism

This partnership is expected to have a profound impact on both airlines. WestJet, which has traditionally been focused on North American and European markets, is now gaining a foothold in the lucrative African market. By leveraging Kenya Airways’ well-established network across Africa, WestJet can expand its presence and offer new travel experiences to Canadian travelers.

Kenya Airways stands to benefit by gaining access to WestJet’s Canadian clientele, further establishing its reputation as a reliable airline connecting Africa to the world. This partnership is expected to bring about an increase in business and leisure travel to Africa, promoting tourism and creating more opportunities for economic collaboration between Canada and the African continent.

This move also aligns with broader global trends, as airlines are increasingly joining forces to create expansive, more efficient global networks in the face of increasing competition and changing travel habits.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Future for Global Air Travel

The WestJet and Kenya Airways partnership represents an important milestone in the evolution of international air travel. As the airline industry recovers from the challenges posed by the pandemic and adjusts to changing travel patterns, collaborations like this one will play a critical role in shaping the future of global air travel. For travelers, this new agreement offers more choice, greater convenience, and expanded opportunities to explore the diverse and vibrant regions of both North America and Africa.

In the coming years, passengers can expect even more partnerships and network expansions that will bring the world closer together. With more affordable and accessible travel options between Canada and Africa, the WestJet-Kenya Airways collaboration is set to redefine the way we think about long-haul travel and regional connectivity.

Conclusion

The interline agreement between WestJet and Kenya Airways offers a powerful example of how global airlines can work together to create more seamless, efficient, and affordable travel options for their customers. With improved access to Africa and the Caribbean, coupled with better connectivity across North America, this partnership strengthens the travel possibilities for all travelers.

Image Credit:- WestJet

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Cox & Kings has launched five new franchise outlets in Faridabad, Gurgaon, Dharamshala, Agra, and Ahmedabad. The move reinforces the company’s strategic commitment to tapping into the evolving travel aspirations of India’s Tier 2 and emerging urban centers, at a time when demand for personalized, experience-driven travel is soaring.

With a clear focus on accessibility, local presence, and customer convenience, the new franchises are part of Cox & Kings’ larger vision to establish 200 franchises over the next two years, making travel planning seamless and trustworthy across the length and breadth of the country.

Karan Agarwal, Director at Cox & Kings, said, “There’s a major shift underway in the Indian travel landscape. Aspirational travel is no longer confined to metros. People in Tier 2 cities and upcoming urban centers are increasingly looking for curated, reliable travel experiences, both domestic and international. Our franchise expansion is aimed precisely at addressing this growing demand with trusted service and local touchpoints.”

Meeting diverse travel needs

The five newly launched outlets have been strategically chosen for their unique market potential and demographic relevance. Faridabad serves as a vital bridge between the rising middle-class population of the city and the affluent, travel-savvy audience from neighbouring South Delhi. Gurgaon, with its dynamic mix of corporate professionals and upwardly mobile families, presents strong demand for premium and bespoke holiday experiences.

In Dharamshala, a city known for its consistent tourist inflow and young, transient population, the franchise aims to bridge leisure travel with strong community-based engagement. Meanwhile, Agra, historically positioned as a tourism magnet, is now witnessing a notable rise in outbound travel interest among its local residents.

Finally, Ahmedabad, one of western India’s fastest-growing economic hubs, offers a rich blend of international curiosity, family-led travel planning, and a culture increasingly inclined toward global exploration. Together, these locations represent a carefully curated mix of established and emerging travel markets in India.

Franchise-led, experience-focused growth

The newly launched franchises will offer a comprehensive suite of services, including group tours, fixed departures, luxury vacations, and custom itineraries. Additionally, standalone services such as flights, hotel bookings, visa assistance, and travel insurance will also be available, giving travelers the flexibility to plan trips their way.

This expansion comes as Indian travellers increasingly move towards experiential travel, self-designed itineraries, and seamless planning solutions. From first-time flyers to seasoned globetrotters, Cox & Kings’ local franchises aim to become one-stop travel partners across customer segments.