Saudia Named World’s Most Improved Airline for 2024

Saudia Named World’s Most Improved Airline for 2024

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 2, 2024

Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has been honored as the “World’s Most Improved Airline” and topped the list for Best Economy Class Airline Catering at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Skytrax, an international air transport rating organization, hosts this prestigious event, which is based on an extensive global customer satisfaction survey covering over 375 airlines worldwide.

This accolade marks the third time Saudia has been recognized as the world’s most improved airline, highlighting its impressive progress over the past seven years. The airline has soared in the rankings from 82nd place in 2017 to 23rd in 2023, and now 20th in 2024. This remarkable achievement is largely credited to Saudia’s ‘SHINE’ transformation program, which focuses on enhancing the guest experience, optimizing operational efficiency, and upgrading its services and products.

Saudia’s commitment to innovation and digital transformation has propelled the airline into the top 10 globally for On-Time Performance (OTP) throughout 2023, maintaining this position for six consecutive months. By May 2024, Saudia achieved top five status for arrival OTP and was ranked first globally for departure OTP.

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Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, emphasized the significance of these awards, stating, “These awards reaffirm Saudia’s dedication to excellence and our commitment to achieving the objectives of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services. By adhering to the highest quality standards in the aviation industry, we are continuously prioritizing service innovation, enhancing the guest experience, and optimizing operational efficiency.”

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, also congratulated Saudia, stating, “We congratulate Saudia on this fabulous achievement and remarkable success. To be recognised for change and quality improvement is a testament to the hard work by the management and staff at Saudia, and this recognition should be a source of pride.” This recognition underscores Saudia's clear strategic direction and future trajectory, evidenced by recent significant agreements with Boeing and Airbus to acquire 154 new aircraft. Additionally, Saudia is extensively upgrading its cabins, introducing new seats in both guest and business classes, high-speed in-flight internet, and state-of-the-art entertainment screens.

Saudia’s continued dedication to excellence has solidified its position as a leading global connector, bridging the world to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and serving diverse sectors, including business, tourism, entertainment, sports, Hajj, and Umrah. 


Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Plan B Travel Jordan and Royal Jordanian Airlines recently joined hands to host a destination-focused webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade. Titled Master the Wonders of Jordan, the session attracted notable Indian travel agents, underlining Jordan’s growing appeal as a luxury travel destination for Indian travellers.

The webinar offered a comprehensive look at Jordan’s diverse tourism highlights — from the archaeological marvels of Petra, the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, to the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Designed to equip travel professionals with deeper insights and practical tools, the session aimed to boost confidence in promoting and selling Jordan as a unique travel experience.

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Participants also received exclusive updates from Royal Jordanian Airlines, which showcased their enhanced connectivity, service upgrades, and tailored trade benefits for the Indian market — making Jordan even more accessible and attractive for outbound travellers.

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, said, “We aim to strengthen partnerships within the Indian travel fraternity. With Jordan’s exclusive offerings of legacy, adventure, and well-being experiences, we see great potential for tourism growth. This webinar was aimed at strengthening product knowledge and empowering the trade to position Jordan notably.”

To add to the excitement, participants stood a chance to win exclusive prizes from Royal Jordanian Airlines along with thoughtfully curated tokens of appreciation from Plan B Travel Jordan — turning the educational experience into a rewarding one.

As Jordan emerges as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, initiatives like these ensure travel agents are well-equipped to inspire their clients with unforgettable journeys.


TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 28, 2025

TV9 Network has partnered with SKIL Corporate Travel, India’s leading corporate travel and event management firm, as the Official Travel Partner for the News9 Global Summit, UAE Edition. Organised by News9 and promoted by TV9 Network, this summit marked its second international edition, bringing together a distinguished group of Indian policymakers, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and global thought leaders to chart India’s growing global influence.

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As the Official Travel Partner, SKIL Corporate Travel seamlessly managed end-to-end logistics for all attending delegates and speakers — covering international and domestic flights, local transportation, and comprehensive on-ground support throughout the summit.

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Elevating its engagement beyond operational support, Mr. Shylender Jindal, Managing Director, SKIL Group, also featured as a distinguished speaker at the Summit. He contributed to the headline panel titled "Delhi to Dubai: Building the Startup Corridor," offering insights on the future of mobility, cross-border innovation, and India’s dynamic role in shaping global entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Vikash Kejriwal, CEO, SKIL Group, said,

"We are honoured to partner with TV9 for this international edition of the News9 Global Summit. As India steps into its role as a global business powerhouse, we are proud to support the journeys that move those ideas forward. Our experience in handling high-stakes, cross-border corporate travel makes this a natural and meaningful collaboration."

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With decades of experience in managing CXO delegations, enterprise mobility, and large-scale international conferences, SKIL Corporate Travel continues to stand out as a trusted name in premium corporate travel services, seamlessly blending efficiency with excellence across sectors and destinations.


Soak in the Monsoon Magic at Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar

Soak in the Monsoon Magic at Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 26, 2025

As the monsoon paints Mahabaleshwar in shades of green and mist, Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar transforms into the perfect retreat for those seeking a soulful pause. Perched above the spectacular Lingmala Waterfalls and overlooking the serene Venna River, this scenic escape in the Sahyadris invites guests to slow down, breathe deep, and truly savour the beauty of the season.

Every corner of the property offers postcard-perfect views—from rolling clouds floating past your balcony to lush hills bathed in mist. Whether you're sipping on a warm cup of tea or soaking in a private plunge pool, it's an experience designed to bring calm and clarity.

The resort offers a range of thoughtfully curated accommodations—from valley-view garden rooms to mountain-facing balconies and intimate private villas with personal plunge pools, each crafted to maximise comfort and tranquillity.

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Adding more delight to the stay is the Monsoon Gateway Offer, a seasonal package designed to elevate the experience with a range of inclusions:

  • Daily buffet breakfast

  • Dinner at the signature Berry Library

  • One-time complimentary minibar

  • 15% off on food and soft beverages

  • Evening tea/coffee service between 4–5 PM

  • A complimentary bottle of house wine on arrival

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Just minutes from popular points like Wilson Point and Kate’s Point, guests can also enjoy nature walks and short excursions between long spells of leisure and indulgence.

Known for its warm hospitality, personalized service, and flavour-rich cuisine, Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar makes a strong case for the perfect monsoon escape—be it a romantic retreat, family break, or quick getaway with friends.

Take the scenic route this season—let the hills, waterfalls, and warm comforts of Marriott’s hospitality remind you to slow down and cherish life’s simpler joys.

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