Delta to Add Inflight Wi-Fi to 223 Delta Connection Jets

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School trips rescued following collapse of ABTA Tour Operator

Four schools had their trips dramatically rescued following the failure of ABTA tour operator TJM travel on 23 May 2013. ABTA tour operator Voyager School Travel stepped in to offer the schools the same trips to Tossa de Mar in northern Spain departing only 24 hours after TJM went out of business. Voyager School Travel provided the trips safe in the knowledge that the payments made by parents to TJM travel for their children’s holidays were fully protected by ABTA.

Ensuring these trips went ahead at such short notice was a daunting logistical challenge but it was made possible by the expertise on offer from Voyager School Travel and the 100% financial protection offered by ABTA for the trips. A further 25 schools have been affected by the failure of TJM Travel and they will receive full refunds, which will enable them to rebook their trips with other ABTA specialist tour operators.

The Gable Hall in Essex, Hayes School Kent, Winterbourne School in Bristol and Wye Vale Buckingham were the four schools affected each of whose parties had paid tens of thousands of pounds to TJM Travel, which was protected by ABTA.

Mr Stephen Whittle, Head of School at Hayes School said: “Receiving the news the day before our trip was due to depart that TJM Travel had ceased business led us to doubt whether the trip would go ahead. Our trip leader received prompt and professional contact from Voyager School Travel providing the reassurance that they could honour the booking, accommodation and planned activities. The trip went ahead and whilst parents were informed of the change all went ahead as planned, with no difference to the students’ and staff members’ enjoyment of a great trip.“

John de Vial, ABTA Head of Financial Protection, said: “Any travel company failure is not good news for their customers but by working together with our Member Voyager School Travel I am delighted that we were able to get these four school groups off on their trips. It is a shining example of the important role that ABTA performs in financially protecting over three million holidays provided each year by ABTA tour operators.”

Nigel English, Managing Director of Voyager School Travel, said: “The pressure was certainly on to turn everything around in 24 hours, but Voyager School Travel was happy to do all that we could to help the schools in these difficult circumstances and ensure that pupils who’d no doubt been looking forward to their trip all year, did indeed get to go away. From the perspective of a professional working in the travel industry, it was great to see that not only does the ABTA bonding system work, but the system is relatively simple and straightforward.”

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Blount Small Ship Adventures announces new itineraries for 2014

Blount Small Ship Adventures, which offers the best value in small ship cruising, is expanding its presence by offering two new one-of-a-kind itineraries in 2014. Beginning in March of 2014, the Grande Caribe will sail along the Caribbean Sea allowing guests to experience the best of the Bahamas, while in May the Grande Mariner will navigate the narrow waterways of the Mississippi, Ohio and Illinois Rivers for a cruise to the Big Easy, New Orleans, by way of Chicago.

The 11-night ‘Bahamian Out Islands’ cruise, departing March 28 and April 11, immerses guests in the Bahamian culture with visits to 12 ports, including Nassau, Spanish Wells and Governor’s Harbour. The two sailings also feature a welcome dinner in Spanish Wells; a spirited Pirate Party on the white sand Bahamian beaches and an optional ride in Blount’s glass bottom boat in search of brain coral, parrot fish and sea fans. Guests who book this newly-launched itinerary will have the opportunity to indulge in this Caribbean adventure alongside Blount’s President, Nancy Blount, on this year’s exclusive 2014 President’s Cruise departing March 28. Rates begin at $3,999.

The 15-night ‘Chicago to the Big Easy’ cruise, departing May 15 and June 2, navigates narrow waterways to bring guests a picturesque experience alongside the banks of the Mississippi, Ohio and Illinois Rivers. On this voyage, guests will learn about the heritage and culture of Kuttawa, KY during a lecture by a local expert, enjoy a culinary demonstration by the New Orleans School of Cooking and listen to the local music of Columbus, MS. Rates begin at $4,999.

All Blount cruises include three meals daily with menus that are fresh, creative and often reflect the local cuisine, refreshments and snacks 24 hours a day, and wine and beer during lunch and dinner. Blount cruises also feature a BYOB policy, with mixers and set-ups for cocktails available throughout the day. Guests who book a 2014 cruise by Aug. 30, 2013 will receive a 10 percent discount on all Caribbean itineraries.

Blount vessels offer unique features that allow the Grande Caribe and Grande Mariner ships to sail where others cannot. To celebrate this unique design, Blount is launching its Signature Series of itineraries. These itineraries include routes which require the ships to pass through narrow waterways with shallow drafts, cruise under low bridges with the retractable pilot house, and make bow landings on virtually any shore, bringing guests up close and personal to local cultures and hidden treasures. Guests will travel to destinations no other cruise line can duplicate, from traveling down the Erie Canal to a sail through the legendary 1,000 Islands on the way to the Saguenay River in Quebec – a Blount classic.

Through the Signature Series, guests will have a chance to really meet the locals – not at a souvenir shop – but on their streets and in their neighborhoods to truly take in a piece of their culture. Signature Series cruises will also be joined by select Blount family members, allowing guests to discover the history of company founder Luther Blount, and his goal to bring travelers to places they wouldn’t normally access by cruise.

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Delta Air Lines Expands Its Western Gateway with New Non-stop Flights between Los Angeles and Oklahoma City

May 31, 2007

LOS ANGELES, May 31, 2007 – Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) will continue to grow at Los Angeles International Airport with a new non-stop flight to Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City effective Sept. 4. The new flight is the latest addition in a series of new non-stop domestic destinations served by Delta and the Delta Connection carriers from Los Angeles.

“Based on strong demand for Delta’s LAX expansion, we are pleased to continue the trend with new service to Oklahoma City," said Joe Esposito, Delta’s managing director – Schedule Planning. “Oklahoma City will be the 53rd destination served from LAX, offering Delta customers over 100 daily flights."

Delta Connection carrier ExpressJet Airlines will operate the new routes using 50-passenger Embraer 145 regional jets with upgraded in-flight entertainment with more than 100 channels of free XM Satellite Radio and redesigned, memory foam leather seating with no middle seats. Some of the newest destinations Delta serves from Los Angeles include: Boise, Idaho, Denver, Colo., Oakland, Calif., Phoenix, Sacramento, San Francisco, Spokane, Wash. and Vancouver (all starting July 1).

Delta’s schedule between Los Angeles and Oklahoma City effective Sept. 4:

Delta Connection carrier ExpressJetDelta Connection carrier ExpressJet

* Service begins Sept. 5

Book a flight today.

Delta Air Lines offers customers service to more destinations than any global airline with Delta and Delta Connection carrier service to 311 destinations in 52 countries. With more than 60 new international routes added in the last year, Delta is adding international flights at a faster rate than any other major U.S. airline and is a leader across the Atlantic with flights to 32 trans-Atlantic destinations. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 600 weekly flights to 58 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 15,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 462 worldwide destinations in 98 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.

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Hosted buyer registration opens for IBTM India

Hosted Buyer registration has gone live for IBTM India (www.ibtmevents.com/IBTM-India/) and meetings industry suppliers from across the continent as well as those from overseas are part of the growing list of suppliers who will be attending the first event at the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai from 12-14 September 2013.

IBTM India, a tabletop event for Hosted Buyers only, is looking to pre-qualify meetings professionals who have guaranteed domestic and international business to place. There will be Hosted Buyer places for 50 international and 50 domestic planners who will participate in 2.5 days of business, education and networking. There will also be a half-day education conference to facilitate knowledge and debate about key industry trends and topics relevant to the Indian MICE market.

“The Indian inbound MICE sector is growing rapidly with the automotive industry, IT sector, pharma, textile, publishing, engineering and medicine fields leading the way in conferences taking place in the country. Mumbai is home to a number of national and international companies’ regional headquarters so we also expect to attract corporate buyers from the city itself. At the same time, our international meeting planners will be able to see suppliers from across the Indian Continent,” said Shinu Pillai, IBTM India Project Manager.

Rolf Düngefeld, Managing Director, GTC German Tours & Conferences who will also attend IBTM India as an international Hosted Buyer commented, “GTC German Tours & Conference is a world-wide operating Event Management Company. Our core business is organising Congresses, Conferences, Live Marketing Projects, Corporate Events and Incentive Trips. IBTM India is a very important event and of great interest to us because India is a growing market for us. This year in January we have organised a Global Sports Congress in Amravati with 400 delegates and we have other requests for India. This is why our attendance at IBTM will be very helpful”.

Suppliers from the Indian continent attending the first IBTM India include Hotels, Professional Conference Organisers , Destination Management Companies and Travel Management Companies. Creative Travel, Liberty Incentives, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Incentive Destinations, TWU – Travel With Us Pbt Ltd., Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, Hyderabad Convention Visitors Bureau, Travel Corporation of India, and Kuoni MICE Division are just a few of those participating.

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Delta Air Lines Names Don Bornhorst Senior Vice President of Delta Connection

Oct 9, 2007

ATLANTA, Oct. 9, 2007 – Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today announced that Don Bornhorst has been named Senior Vice President – Delta Connection, effective Oct. 15. Bornhorst, a 16-year industry veteran, most recently served as Comair’s president.

“One of Delta’s top priorities is improving the Delta Connection experience for our customers from onboard products and services to operational performance. Don is a proven leader with the background, focus and determination needed to unify the Delta Connection brand and improve service to a level that meets or exceeds our customers’ expectations,” said Joe Kolshak, Delta’s executive vice president of operations.

Bornhorst, 42, was named Comair’s president in May 2006, after working in every major operating group at Comair. Before becoming president, he served as Comair’s chief financial officer, vice president of Information Systems and senior vice president of Customers with oversight of Customer Services and In-flight.

As senior vice president of Delta Connection, Bornhorst will oversee the day-to-day operations of nine partner airlines and lead efforts to ensure Delta Connection service is seamless with mainline operations. Bornhorst replaces Wayne Aaron, who returns to his role as vice president – Strategic Planning and Business Development.

With Bornhorst’s transition to Delta, Comair has tapped industry veteran and former Delta executive John Selvaggio to lead Comair. Selvaggio most recently served as the head of Delta’s former low-cost unit, Song, and prior to that he served as senior vice president for Delta’s Airport Customer Service division.

“John has a wealth of experience in airline operations and his proven leadership will ensure that Comair stays focused on its primary mission of delivering excellence to Delta customers,” said Kolshak.

Selvaggio, 60, brings a unique depth of regional airline expertise to Comair, including previous service as the head of U.S. Airways’ Express Division and president of Wings West Airlines, a predecessor to American Eagle. In 1998, Selvaggio joined Delta and coordinated the company’s efforts in the acquisition of Atlantic Southeast Airlines in 1999, followed by Comair a year later.

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 310 destinations in 54 countries. Since 2005, Delta has added more international capacity than all other major U.S. airlines combined and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 36 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 400 weekly flights to 53 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 15,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 475 worldwide destinations in 104 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.

Photos available at http://news.delta.com > Photos

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Delta Air Lines Reaches Definitive Agreements to Sell Mesaba, Compass Airline Subsidiaries

Jul 1, 2010

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, July 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE: DAL) today announced it has entered into definitive agreements to sell two of its wholly owned regional airline subsidiaries, Mesaba and Compass Airlines.  Mesaba has been sold to Memphis, Tenn.-based Pinnacle Airlines Corp. (Nasdaq: PNCL) for $62.0 million, and Compass has been sold to St. Louis-based Trans States Holdings, Inc. for $20.5 million.  Pinnacle and Trans States are both large and experienced regional airline operators, with Pinnacle currently serving as one of Delta's largest regional carriers.

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Under the terms of the agreements, Mesaba and Compass will continue to serve Delta customers with long-term, extendable agreements, ranging from seven to 12 years depending on aircraft type.  Both Mesaba and Compass will continue to be headquartered in Minneapolis-St. Paul with current presidents John Spanjers and Tim Campbell, respectively, leading the airlines under new ownership.

Delta Connection Senior Vice President Don Bornhorst said, "Today's announcement reflects our continued focus on streamlining the portfolio of Delta Connection carriers serving our customers to ensure each partner airline is independently positioned for success with a competitive cost structure and an industry-leading focus on safety, reliability and customer service.

"In recent years, the Delta Connection carriers have made substantial progress in creating a consistent customer experience across our brand with more First Class cabins, enhanced food service, jetbridge boarding and other amenities Delta customers expect when they fly Delta or Delta Connection flights. This transaction is another step in positioning our regional airlines for future success and we look forward to delivering even more improvements to customers in the more than 260 communities our partners serve."

The structure of the Mesaba and Compass transactions provides for long-term competitive cost structures at both airlines, as well as incentives to reward Mesaba and Compass for operational excellence and cost improvement.

Customer Service and Routes

In conjunction with the sale of both carriers, Delta will enter into new Delta Connection agreements under which Mesaba and Compass Airlines will continue to serve as Delta Connection carriers.

Current plans are for Mesaba and Compass Airlines to operate as wholly owned subsidiaries of Pinnacle Airlines Corp, Inc. and Trans States Holdings, Inc., respectively.  The transactions are not expected to result in any changes in flight schedules or locations served.  Compass and Mesaba's combined fleet of nearly 130 aircraft will continue to be dedicated to flying Delta routes.

Compass and Mesaba's new owners – Pinnacle and Trans States – are long-standing regional airline operators with years of experience working with Delta and other major airlines.

Pinnacle Airlines Corp., an airline holding company, is the parent company of Pinnacle Airlines, Inc. and Colgan Air, Inc.  Pinnacle Airlines, Inc. operates a fleet of 142 regional jets under the Delta Connection brand.  Colgan Air, Inc. operates a fleet of 48 regional turboprops as Continental Connection, United Express and US Airways Express.

Trans States Holdings, Inc. is the parent company of two regional airlines – Trans States Airlines and GoJet Airlines.  Together, Trans States Holdings' regional airlines' 1,400 employees serve nearly five million passengers annually to 69 cities on 330 daily flights.  Trans States currently operates flights as United Express and US Airways Express.

The proceeds from these transactions will be used by Delta for general corporate purposes.

About Mesaba

Based in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Mesaba is a member of the Delta Connection program, operating more than 430 flights each day to 95 airports.  The airline operates a fleet of 96 aircraft and employs nearly 2,000 aviation professionals across its route system. Founded in 1944, Mesaba has operated as a Northwest Airlink and Delta Connection carrier since 1984.

About Compass

Compass is a member of the Delta Connection program, operating more than 170 flights each day to 35 airports.  Based in Minneapolis-St. Paul, the airline operates a fleet of 36 aircraft and employs nearly 1,000 aviation professionals across its route system.

About Delta Connection

Based in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Delta Connection operates the world's largest regional airline system, with more than 670 aircraft operated by nine regional airline partners. Nearly 200 of those aircraft provide dual-class service. Each day more than 3,600 Delta Connection flights take Delta customers to over 260 destinations throughout North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

About Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year. With its unsurpassed global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to 358 destinations in 66 countries on six continents. Delta employs more than 70,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of nearly 800 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry's leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France KLM. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 16,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline's service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, the world's largest airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 45 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.

SOURCE Delta Air Lines

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Smash-hit figures for UK visitors to Germany

With the start of Wimbledon, tennis fans will be focusing on the UK and the world’s most famous tennis tournament for two weeks of high-speed skill and world-ranking sportsmanship.

It seems the UK’s latest figures for overnight stays of visitors to Germany are also world-ranking! No faults here – it’s a clear win, thanks to a rise of +16.3% for the month of April 2013, compared with the same period in 2012.  The equally impressive overall figures for 2013 January–April, make it a grand–slam: +11.2% compared to this time in 2012.

Whether your passion is for sport and outdoor living, superb food and wine, the relaxing surroundings of the German countryside or the attractions of young and vibrant youth travel in Germany’s towns and cities – UK visitors have discovered that Germany offers excellent value for money, plenty of choice and the warmest welcome; it’s a winning combination.

Klaus Lohmann, Director GNTO UK and Ireland said: “Germany has enjoyed great success at Wimbledon, thanks to players like Boris Becker and Steffi Graf -sport generally has encouraged lots of visitors from the UK to discover Germany for themselves.  As these latest visitor figures show, it’s increasing in popularity year on year and we’re delighted to see that with each visit, people are finding Germany serves up plenty of reasons for a return match!”.

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Delta to Adjust Service to Smaller, Underperforming Markets

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Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel welcomes guests

Marriott International has announced the 298-room Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel will join its portfolio of more than 3,800 properties worldwide on July 1st 2013 under a franchise agreement with WB AMBASSADOR.

Located in the heart of the city, the historic property will become the most recent addition to Marriott International’s signature global brand, Marriott Hotels, and represents the company’s 12th property in Paris.

“We are delighted to grow our footprint in Paris with this timeless property,” said Amy McPherson, president and managing director of Marriott International, Europe.

“There has never been a more exciting time to introduce our fourth Marriott property to the market with the many transformative changes happening within our signature brand. 

“Paris is one of the most dynamic and sought after cities in the world and we look forward to being ready to host the next generation of travellers.”

Located on the right bank of the River Seine in the 9th Arrondissement and Opera Quarter, the Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel is a few minutes’ walk from the city’s major attractions including the Opera House, Montmartre, Sacre Coeur, Le Louvre, Place Vendome, Jardins des Tuileries and Galleries Lafayette with world class shopping and boutiques. 

Also in close proximity to the business district, Paris Stock Exchange and numerous shops and restaurants, the hotel is the perfect base for business and leisure travellers.

Originally built in 1927, the hotel was the vision of the influential architect Baron Haussmann who was commissioned to reshape Paris’ streets and architecture. 

The property has an illustrious past as host to royalty, politicians and visiting heads of state along with important historical figures such as Charles Lindbergh and Gustave Eiffel.

The hotel famously hosted Charles Lindbergh’s celebrations as he historically completed the first solo flight across the Atlantic and named the hotel bar in his honour. 

Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel 2The Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel’s 298 guestrooms are stylish and thoughtfully designed with clean lines and a soothing colour palette.

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Rolls-Royce wins $1bn order from Scandinavian Airlines System

Rolls-Royce has won an order worth $1 billion, at list prices, from Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) for Trent XWB and Trent 700 engines and long term TotalCare® services.

The Trent XWBs will power eight Airbus A350-900 aircraft and the Trent 700s will power four A330-300s.

Rickard Gustafson, SAS Group President and CEO, said: “Today, we launch an extensive fleet renewal plan that gives SAS a state of the art long haul fleet. To maximize the fuel efficiency and reach of our aircraft, we have selected engines from Rolls-Royce. I’m very pleased with Rolls-Royce as our engine partner, who will contribute to offering our customers a comfortable and efficient journey.”

Eric Schulz, Rolls-Royce, President - Civil Large Engines, said: “This is a significant order for the Trent XWB, the most efficient engine in the world today, and the Trent 700, which is a clear market leader. We look forward to developing our relationship with SAS.”

The Trent XWB, specifically designed for the Airbus A350 XWB, is the fastest selling Trent engine ever, with more than 1,400 already on order. It powered the first test flight of the A350 XWB at Toulouse on 14 June this year.

The Trent 700 is the market leader on the A330 with more than 1,500 sold or on order. It has won 70 per cent of new orders in the last four years.

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Delta Launches New Weekend Service to Aspen/Snowmass, Colo.

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Delta CEO Richard Anderson Responds to Preliminary DOT Report Regarding Delay of Continental Flight 2816

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Heathrow welcomes industry progress in noise reduction

The aviation industry’s commitment to reducing the impact of aircraft noise took another step forward at Heathrow earlier, with the arrival of British Airways’ first Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

The aircraft boasts a noise footprint 60 per cent quieter than similarly sized aircraft and will be the fourth B787 to operate out of Heathrow.

New, quieter aircraft such as the B787 have contributed towards ensuring that fewer people are affected by noise from Heathrow today than at any time since the 1970s, even though the number of flights has almost doubled.

Heathrow continues to encourage the introduction of new, quieter aircraft by charging them lower landing fees and developing infrastructure such as stands and taxiways to accommodate larger aircraft like A380s.

The airport already hosts twelve A380s – which produce half the noise of their nearest rival when taking off – and expects to have approximately thirty A380s and approximately sixty B787s by 2020.

Strict noise limits at the airport also mean that airlines generally use their quietest aircraft around 15 per cent more on Heathrow routes.

Matt Gorman, Heathrow sustainability director, explained: ‘We are delighted to welcome British Airways’ first Boeing 787 to Heathrow.

“Heathrow is at the forefront of international efforts to reduce the impact of aircraft noise and this new generation of quieter aircraft will make a significant contribution to achieving this.”

Heathrow recently published ‘A quieter Heathrow’, a report setting out Heathrow’s commitments to reducing aircraft noise while safeguarding the UK’s connectivity.

The report sets out the core areas of focus for tackling aircraft noise: quieter planes, quieter operating procedures, noise mitigation and land-use planning, operating restrictions and working with local communities.

The report also sets out a range of new commitments on noise which include publicly ranking airlines on ‘noise performance’, trialling new departure routes with NATS and proposing a significant increase in fines for airlines that break noise limits.

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Delta Launches First Wi-Fi Equipped Regional Jet

Sep 7, 2011

ATLANTA, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today became the first airline in the world to provide in-flight Internet service onboard its regional aircraft with the launch flight of a Wi-Fi-equipped Bombardier CRJ700 operated by Delta Connection carrier Atlantic Southeast Airlines. Delta had previously announced its plan to expand the number of Delta aircraft – which currently includes its entire domestic fleet of more than 550 aircraft – with onboard Wi-Fi to an additional 250 regional jet aircraft operated by Delta Connection carriers.  Delta will be the first carrier to deploy Wi-Fi across its entire mainline and two-class regional fleet, a total of more than 800 aircraft.

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The first regional jet equipped with Wi-Fi departed from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport with scheduled stops in Omaha, Neb., Des Moines, Iowa and White Plains, N.Y. throughout the day. To celebrate the occasion, all passengers on the inaugural flight of the Wi-Fi-equipped regional jet will receive complimentary Gogo access. The first passengers departing Atlanta received complimentary 30-day Wi-Fi service courtesy of Delta and Gogo that can be used for future travel. Passengers will be encouraged to tweet using #DeltaRJWifi on today's flights to receive randomly selected gifts from Delta and Gogo.

"With the addition of Gogo in-flight Internet service on Delta Connection two-class regional aircraft, more than 81,000 additional customers daily will be able to stay connected just like they do onboard Delta's mainline fleet," said Bob Kupbens, Delta's vice president – eCommerce. "We continue to innovate and lead the industry with customer-centric technology so customers can do things such as track their bags, check the status of their next flight, check email or connect with social networks while in flight."

Installations of Wi-Fi on Delta Connection jets will be complete by early next year. Once complete, all customers flying on Delta domestic flights with a First Class cabin will enjoy Wi-Fi access, including service on every Delta Shuttle flight between New York-LaGuardia and Boston, Chicago-O'Hare and Washington, D.C.  

Delta began installing Wi-Fi on domestic mainline aircraft in 2008, becoming the first airline to announce plans for in-flight Internet service on all domestic aircraft. With its mainline aircraft and the addition of regional jets to the Wi-Fi program, more than 80 percent of Delta's entire domestic fleet will feature Gogo in-flight Internet access. Customers can stay connected using Gogo in-flight Internet with free access to delta.com or Delta's mobile applications.

Delta Connection aircraft featuring First Class cabins include Embraer 170, Embraer 175, Bombardier CRJ700 and Bombardier CRJ900 models operated by Delta Connection. The aircraft feature between nine and 12 seats in First Class and between 56 and 64 seats in Economy.

In addition to Wi-Fi, Delta has taken a number of steps to fully align service on Delta Connection and mainline flights. Recent improvements have included adding First Class cabins to 82 additional CRJ700 jets; introducing meal service in First Class on regional jets; and adding china, linen and silverware to Delta Connection First Class cabins.

Delta's regional jet Wi-Fi investments are the latest in the airline's previously announced plan to invest more than $2 billion in enhanced global products, services and airport facilities through 2013.  In addition to installing Wi-Fi and upgrading its domestic fleet, Delta will offer full flat-bed seats on more than 140 widebody aircraft, feature personal, in-seat entertainment for both BusinessElite and Economy class customers on all widebody flights, and complete new terminal facilities for international customers at its two largest global gateways – Atlanta and New York-JFK.

Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year, and was named by Fortune magazine as the most admired airline worldwide in its 2011 World's Most Admired Companies airline industry list. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to 339 destinations in 59 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry's leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 13,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline's service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, a world-class airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 50 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. Delta is investing more than $2 billion through 2013 in airport facilities and global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.

Terms and Conditions

Additional restrictions may apply. Offers subject to change. Use of the Gogo Inflight Internet service is subject to terms of use available at gogoinflight.com.

SOURCE Delta Air Lines

For press inquiries: Delta Corporate Communications, +1-404-715-2554

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Change rings in for phone users landing with British Airways

British Airways will be the first airline in Europe to allow its customers to switch on their mobile phones and other handheld electronic devices after landing.

Previously, customers have been forced to wait until their aircraft has come to a complete stop and the doors were opened before they could use their iPads, Kindles, eReaders and mobile phones.

Once the aircraft has vacated the runway, cabin crew will make an announcement to customers to let them know they can use their handheld mobile devices.

But British Airways has now demonstrated to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) that their customers can safely use their handheld electronic devices, once their aircraft vacates the runway.

The approach by British Airways to the CAA was made in response to feedback from the airline’s customers.

Earlier this year, British Airways was the first UK airline to allow customers on long-haul services to watch in-flight entertainment from the moment they board the aircraft to the time it arrives at its destination, following consultation with the CAA.

Ian Pringle, British Airways’ flight training manager, said: “Customers will no longer have the frustration of having to wait until their plane has arrived at the terminal building before being able to use their mobile phones and other handheld electronic devices.

“Now they’ll have that extra time to phone ahead for that important business meeting, check their emails, or make sure someone is there to meet them at the airport.”

British Airways customers will be able to take advantage of the change in policy from July 1, 2013. It will apply to every British Airways flight landing around the world, not just in the UK and Europe.

Customers on departing flights will still need to turn off all their handheld electronic devices when the aircraft leaves the gate, in line with current regulations.

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Hertz announces new sales agents in Jordan, Lebanon to grow outbound car rentals

The Hertz Corporation, the world’s leading general use car rental brand, has today announced the appointment of new General Sales Agents (GSA) in Jordan and Lebanon to grow its outbound car rentals from the two Levant countries to more than 8,800 Hertz locations in 150 countries.

The partnerships see the world’s largest general-use car rental brand tie up with Eastern Travel & Tours in Jordan and Nakhal in Lebanon, and will provide a new level of service and support for the countries’ travel trade professionals when making car rental bookings globally for their customers.

They will also provide a significant boost to the upward curve of Hertz outbound car rentals in recent years from Lebanon and Jordan to popular European and US destinations.

In 2012, Hertz outbound transactions from Lebanon grew by 20% year-on-year, with France, UAE, Italy, USA and Greece among the top five countries of choice for its Lebanese customers, accounting for 79% of total outbound transactions for the company.

For the same year, the USA was the second most popular travel destination for Hertz customers in Jordan, sitting just behind the UAE and followed by France, Italy, Spain, Greece, the UK, and Switzerland.

Michel Taride, Group President of Hertz International commented: “Hertz is excited to be aligned with Eastern Travel & Tours and Nakhal, whose combined presence and knowledge of the Jordanian and Lebanese travel markets make them ideal partners to grow our outbound car rentals from the two countries to key overseas destinations.

“Hertz is one of the most well-known brands globally and is instantly recognisable by millions of people, helping customers around the world for more than 90 years. These partnerships build upon the long-standing history Hertz has enjoyed in Jordan and Lebanon, and we look forward to continuing to provide our customers in these countries superior service and value with our innovative products and services.”

Amani Qassim, General Manager of Eastern Travel & Tours, added: “As one of Jordan’s most trusted travel operators, our aim is to continue to broaden the range of services that we offer for outbound travel and tourism. Eastern Travel & Tours has an independent multi-lingual sales team operating as a dedicated resource to represent the Hertz brand and we are excited to build on its presence among our trade and corporate client portfolio.”

Elie Nakhal, General Manager of Nakhal in Lebanon concluded: “Nakhal is one of Lebanon’s oldest and most specialised agencies, with more than 50 years experience in the travel and tourism industry.

“With our extensive global retail network and 125 experienced staff members, we are perfectly poised to significantly increase Hertz product awareness among the travel trade and grow outbound sales.”

The principal benefits of the new GSA appointments to travel trade professionals in the Levant will be the instant accessibility to the global portfolio of Hertz outbound products.

Hertz offers a wide range of makes and types in a global fleet of more than 500,000 vehicles, while in USA, the newly launched Hertz Dream Cars collection means customers can enjoy the thrill of driving the likes of an Aston Martin V8 Vantage, a Bentley Continental GT, a Lamborghini Gallardo, or an SRT Viper among more than a dozen other premier names.

Other popular choices include the Hertz Collections range of cars in certain locations in Europe, USA and Australia. These include the Prestige, Green, Fun, Adrenalin, and Family collections, in which customers are guaranteed the make and model of the car they choose upon making a reservation.

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Comair to Cease Operations

Jul 27, 2012

ATLANTA, July 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today announced its subsidiary, Comair, Inc. will cease operations after Sept. 29, 2012.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090202/DELTALOGO )

In a memo issued today to the Officers and Directors of Delta Air Lines, Don Bornhorst, Senior Vice President of Delta Connection, said:

"While regional flying has and will remain a key component of Delta's network, customer expectations and the unit costs of regional flying have evolved.  In response, Delta recently announced its plans to reduce the total number of regional jets in its network while adding more mainline flying.  This includes reducing the number of 50-seat regional jets from nearly 350 aircraft to 125 or fewer in the upcoming years.  As a result of this reduction and changes to its customer-focused business strategy, Delta has made the difficult decision to cease Comair's operations."

Ryan Gumm, President of Comair, communicated Delta's decision this morning to Comair employees in a memo, the full text of which is included below.

The discontinuation of Comair's operations will not result in any significant changes to Delta's network, which has enough flexibility to accommodate these changes.  Currently, Comair accounts for approximately one percent of Delta's network capacity.  There will be no disruption to customers and no significant adjustments to Delta's flight schedule or locations served.  All customers who travel on the Delta network, whether on Delta Connection flights or mainline aircraft, can continue to make travel plans with Delta as they have in the past.

Cincinnati will continue to be an important market in Delta's worldwide network.  Over the past several years, working with community leaders, Delta has right-sized capacity at Cincinnati to better match service to local passenger demand.  Cincinnati is now a profitable market for Delta and the city continues to enjoy over 120 peak daily flights, with non-stop service to 49 destinations.  No reductions in the number of Delta flights are planned at Cincinnati as a result of this decision.

To                            All Comair Employees
From                        Ryan Gumm, President
Subject                    Comair to Cease Operations
Date                        July 27, 2012

All,

Today, I am writing to let you know that Delta has made the difficult decision to cease Comair's operations after September 29, 2012.

Delta recently announced its intent to reduce the overall number of 50-seat regional jets in its network from nearly 350 to 125 or fewer in light of the significant changes in the economic and competitive conditions in the airline industry.  We believed this announcement would have a negative impact on Comair because we operate some of the oldest 50-seat aircraft in the Delta Connection fleet, which also have the highest unit cost per flight hour.  And, in fact, Delta has decided to remove the remaining 16 Comair 50-seaters from the Delta network, leaving Comair with only 28 aircraft in scheduled service.  This further reduction of Comair's active fleet will only create higher unit costs, which equates to a business model that is no longer sustainable in this competitive regional environment.

I understand that today's news is very difficult and raises many questions for you and your family.  Human Resources is prepared to directly assist you during this time.  They will post a memo and other documents on the Human Resources Epic page to keep you informed of the assistance available and to help answer many of your questions.  We will also have staff available over the weekend to answer questions if needed.  If after reviewing the information on Epic you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your departmental leadership as well.

The discontinuation of Comair's operations is in no way a failure or a reflection of your work – it is an unfortunate necessity due to the economic limitations of our aging aircraft, cost structure, the long-term outlook for 50-seat aircraft, and our challenging industry and economy.  The quality of our operations has continued to be outstanding during our lengthy restructuring efforts, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to lead such a committed team.  I am asking that each of you recognize the importance of remaining focused on safety and the job at hand as we continue operations throughout the wind-down period.  Your continued commitment and your dedication to a safe and reliable operation is a testament to the professional team we have built here at Comair.

About Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year. During the past year, Delta was named domestic "Airline of the Year" by the readers of Travel Weekly magazine, was named the "Top Tech-Friendly U.S. Airline" by PCWorld magazine for its innovation in technology and won the Business Travel News Annual Airline Survey. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to nearly 350 destinations in 65 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry's leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 13,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline's service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, a world-class airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 50 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. Delta is investing more than $3 billion through 2013 in airport facilities and global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.

SOURCE Delta Air Lines

For press inquiries: Delta Corporate Communications, +1-404-715-2554, News archive at news.delta.com

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Shangri-La Hotel Shenyang to open August 1st

Shenyang’s Imperial Palace is the inspiration for one of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts’ newest mainland China properties.  The Hong Kong-based hotel company is preparing to debut a new five-star hotel in the historic city of Shenyang, which is home to the only other existing royal palace in mainland China after the Forbidden City in Beijing.  Shangri-La Hotel, Shenyang will open along the city’s “Golden Corridor” on 1 August, in time to host sports “royalty” during the 12th China National Sports Games being held there in September.

Shangri-La has created one of its luxury oasis to care for travellers in Shenyang.  The hotel’s grand, tranquil lobby and Lobby Lounge are designed as if they were the “backyard” of the Imperial Palace, which is famed for its 20 gardens and roses (the official flower of Shenyang).  Guests enter the hotel on a marble floor that appears strewn with rose petals, which are etchings filled in with three different marble inlays.

The lobby’s soaring 10-metre ceiling is supported by marble-clad columns depicting wind and clouds in a traditional Chinese, auspicious graphic style.  Behind the reception desk, a copy of a Song Dynasty painting found in the Shenyang Museum features a flock of soaring cranes, representing health and flowing treasure.

The grandeur of Shenyang Imperial Palace is reflected throughout the lobby area and represented in many forms: the patterns from an emperor’s robe woven into area carpets; the flowing design of the crystal lighting fixture, the intricate rose petal design on laminated glass, and the naturalistic depictions on the marble columns.  All the natural elements that were thoughtfully and seamlessly used in the creation of the Imperial Palace gardens were emulated in order to create an oasis where guests can relax, rejuvenate and revitalise.

Shangri-La Hotel, Shenyang’s 424 guestrooms start from 42 square metres.  Decorated with Chinese accents, the elegant and classic rooms offer panoramic city views and are outfitted with Shangri-La’s signature amenities, including complimentary high-speed broadband Internet and Wi-Fi.
Shangri-La’s signature Horizon Club guestrooms are found on the top five floors of the building, and the exclusive Horizon Club Lounge on the top 30th floor offers refreshing city views through nearly floor-to-ceiling windows.  The Horizon Club Lounge is accessible to all suite and Club floor guests and offers valuable privileges including complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments and evening cocktails, and free use of the lounge’s meeting room for two hours per day.  Providing guests an even more personalised level of service, Horizon Club privileges also include dedicated Club Concierge service, tea or coffee delivered to the guestroom with a wake-up call, suit pressing and late check-out until 4 p.m. on day of departure.

Also on the top floor of the hotel is Shinsen, a specialty restaurant and bar.  Its contemporary environment features a sushi and sake bar, teppan private dining rooms and a rooftop terrace.  Showcasing Shangri-La’s restaurant design and cuisine concepts, all-day dining restaurant Café Liao is a dramatic food theatre with an extensive selection of Asian and international cuisines using both local and imported produce.

Shangri-La Hotel, Shenyang’s Summer Palace serves the finest Cantonese and Liaoning cuisine in a style that combines authentic taste with contemporary presentation.  Complementing the stylish décor and elegant ambience of the main dining area are 13 private dining rooms with garden views catering to VIP and corporate events as well as informal family and social occasions.

For meetings, the hotel offers 4,026 square metres of space on two floors.  On level two, the grand ballroom is the largest of its kind in northeast China.  The 1,900-square-metre pillarless ballroom has a 600-square-metre pre-function area with floor-to-ceiling-windows and a nine-metre-high ceiling.  Additional meeting facilities include a second 566-square-metre ballroom and seven function rooms, one of which offers a 3,015-square-metre rooftop garden.

The hotel’s contemporary style health and recreation facilities include CHI, The Spa, with nine luxurious private spa suites; a rooftop tennis court; 25-metre indoor heated swimming pool; Jacuzzi; sauna, and steam bath.  The fitness centre provides personal training in addition to group and individual exercise programmes.

Located on Qingnian Avenue (dubbed the “Golden Corridor”) in Shenhe District, the hotel is situated within walking distance to the city’s prime shopping and entertainment area and is close to city government, consulate offices and exhibition centres.  It is a 30 minutes’ drive to the airport and 20 minutes to the city’s two major train stations, which connect Shenyang by express trains to key cities.  Shangri-La Hotel, Shenyang will be the second hotel managed by Shangri-La in the city, joining Traders Hotel, Shenyang.

View the original article here

Delta and ExpressJet Announce Plans to Mutually Terminate Flying Agreement

Jul 3, 2008

ATLANTA, July 3, 2008 – Delta (NYSE: DAL) and ExpressJet have mutually agreed to cease all ExpressJet Delta Connection operations as of Sept. 1, 2008.

ExpressJet currently operates 23 ERJ-145 aircraft for Delta Connection on flights that primarily operate out of Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. Delta intends to award a portion of this flying, including all routes currently operated by ExpressJet at its Salt Lake City hub, to another Delta Connection carrier. Delta will rebook customers whose scheduled service is impacted by these changes.

“We are pleased to be able to reach a mutual agreement on the termination of our partnership with ExpressJet,” said Don Bornhorst, senior vice president – Delta Connection. “While we expect minimal impact to customers, Delta will work to ensure that alternate transportation options are arranged as quickly as possible.”

"With the losses we were experiencing from our Delta pro-rate flying combined with our ability to return aircraft to the lessor, this termination of service is in the best interest of our company," said Jim Ream, ExpressJet President and Chief Executive Officer.

After Sept. 1, ExpressJet will retain the 23 ERJ-145 aircraft it currently flies Delta Connection.

Customers with impacted flights scheduled on ExpressJet will be notified by Delta reservations agents and offered alternate flights or refunds if their flights have been cancelled.  Customers can also contact Delta directly at 1-800-221-1212.

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 327 destinations in 62 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 44 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers 609 weekly flights to 62 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on more than 16,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 499 worldwide destinations in 105 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.

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Marriott re-brands flagship brand as worldwide campaign launches

Reflecting the transformative change happening at its properties, the iconic Marriott Hotels, the signature brand of Marriott International has launched a new multi-year global marketing campaign.

Called ‘Travel Brilliantly’, the campaign reflects the lifestyle of the next generation of travellers, who seamlessly blend work and play in a mobile and global world.

The campaign includes TV, digital and mobile advertising, a new brand look and logo, and enhanced social media platforms.

In addition, Marriott is launching a new website – Travel Brilliantly - revealing innovations under development, as well as a co-creation platform to solicit user-generated ideas.

At its core, the campaign disrupts the traditional industry idea that a hotel is bound by its four walls.

Rather, the campaign shifts the focus, celebrating how the global travel experience opens minds and is inspirational.

As the advertising proclaims: “This is not a hotel. It’s an idea that travel should be brilliant… It’s not only about where you’re staying. It’s about where you’re going.”

From culinary to design to technology, the new campaign draws on the personal passion points and values of the next generation guest, to create a visual that is emblematic of the new Marriott experience.

“The iconic Marriott Hotels brand is transforming itself and reasserting its position as an innovation leader,” said Mara Hannula, vice president of global marketing, Marriott Hotels.

“Therefore, the campaign had to be bold in not only staking our claim, but also engaging the next generation of travellers to join us in co-creating the future of travel.”

To signal change, Marriott created a new brand logo, keeping its iconic ‘M’, while modernising its overall appeal.

Grey NY, one of the world’s leading advertising and communications agencies developed the integrated campaign and the new brand voice. 

The new website will be a platform for portraying Marriott’s past and future innovations and soliciting similar, future-forward ideas from influencers, experts and travelling consumer enthusiasts.

Visitors to the website are invited to share their groundbreaking ideas to improve the modern travel experience across design, culinary, wellness and technology.

Marriott’s new campaign will run online in prominent news and lifestyle outlets, such as Fast Company, Mashable and Wired, and in key mobile placements beginning in June.

Television spots featuring ads from the campaign will begin in September.

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Iberostar Isla Canela reopens following refurbishment

Iberostar Isla Canela has inaugurated its new facilities following a complete refurbishment. 

The refurbishment, which included suites and communal spaces, has raised this four-star hotel to Iberostar’s highest standards of quality and demonstrates the chain’s commitment to the region.

As part of its 2013 strategy, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts has carried out a comprehensive renovation of its Iberostar Isla Canela services and facilities. 

The project involved the entire establishment, with special attention paid to the hotel’s 300 suites. 

Guests will be welcomed this season with suites featuring a new contemporary design, more storage space, modern TV screens and new safes. 

As part of the hotel chain’s philosophy, gastronomy at Iberostar Isla Canela remains a top priority. 

The hotel restaurant has been reformed to create a more spacious buffet area and new furnishings in the dining area, as well as better lighting for a more comfortable atmosphere. 

Iberostar wanted the restaurant buffet to feature the IberostarChef service.

This concept enables guests to witness and understand at first hand the preparation process of dishes, thanks to live cooking demonstrations. 

In addition, the refurbishment project included the creation of a Gastro Bar offering national and international cuisine. 

Iberostar Isla Canela also offers a comprehensive range of wellness and relaxation services. 

The hotel’s SPA Sensations has had air conditioning installed in its massage booths and has a remodelled Jacuzzi. 

To complement this, Iberostar Isla Canela continues to offer the best fitness options thanks to its Fit & Fun programme, which combines sports with holiday entertainment and includes the launch of a brand new spinning studio at the hotel. 

Óscar González, head of Iberostar Hotels & Resorts marketing in Europe, said of the refurbishment project:  “The comprehensive refurbishment of Iberostar Isla Canela forms parts of the Iberostar Hotels & Resorts continual renovation process, designed to ensure maximum quality and the best service at all times in our portfolio of hotels. 

“The project also underlines Iberostar’s commitment to Andalusia as a priority market for the company.”

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Ritz-Carlton set to open Bali hotel in 2014

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, Indonesia is set to open in 2014.

The luxury resort is owned by PT Oriental Indah Bali Hotel Company and designed by architects and designers, Burega Farnell.

It will feature 288 keys including 90 exceptional suites and 14 villas. The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will also debut 10 cliff top villas that offer ocean views.

The luxury resort will also include six restaurants and bars, which include a cliff-side restaurant integrated into a natural cave that doubles as a private dining room.

Other restaurants include a beach grill, an Indonesian restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, a pool bar and all-day dining. Within the resort grounds, there will be a Ritz-Carlton Spa; a water sports pavilion and other recreational facilities.

“Bali is a naturally beautiful destination that global travelers have consistently returned to. We are delighted to be creating an authentic Balinese resort in Sawagan which will offer breathtaking views and carefully curated experiences and recreational activities that speak to the aspirations of today’s Ritz-Carlton guest,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operations Officer, The Ritz-Carlton.

Bali is a dream wedding destination, and The Ritz-Carlton will provide ideal wedding venues, including a choice of two wedding chapels, a ballroom, three intimate function rooms and outdoor terraces to create memorable celebrations that will stay with a couple and their guests for a lifetime.

“Described as simply the world’s best island, Bali a resort destination that appeals to many seeking an escape from the world and we are proud to unveil a resort that will, once again, raise the bar for hospitality in the region and contribute to the growth of tourism in Indonesia,” added Humler.

The stunning island of Bali enjoys an enviable reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious resort destinations with its combination of sandy beaches, local Balinese artisan culture and relaxed ambiance.

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JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts introduces JWM Wine Club

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts is pleased to introduce the new JWM Wine Club, designed exclusively for JW Marriott guests to complement their passion for wine and the in-home wine-tasting experience. Created in collaboration with Treasury Wine Estates, the JWM Wine Club provides members with carefully curated wine experiences, highlighting fine wines from some of California’s most awarded luxury estates.

The JWM Wine Club will introduce wine enthusiasts to the reserves and iconic labels of California’s most heralded wine estates with a sampling of four wines in a single-serving format shipped quarterly to a preferred address. Members will then select their two favorites and receive a 750ml bottle of each to enjoy. Additionally, wine tasting notes from a JW Marriott wine ambassador and recipes to pair with your wines from a hotel executive chef will be included with each shipment, providing members with the tools to learn about the life of the vine, duties of a winemaker and how to properly choose, taste and enjoy the best wine for any occasion. The cost to participate is $150 per shipment.

“We are thrilled to officially introduce our new JWM Wine Club, a program which was designed to further enhance our connection with our guests by providing luxuries that speak to their personal interest,” said Mitzi Gaskins, vice president & global brand manager for JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts. “The collaboration with Treasury Wine Estates offers an innovative way for guests to access and experience fine wine, providing them with a JW Marriott experience to savor at home at their leisure.”

“The JWM Wine Club is an extension of a very important strategic partnership between Treasury Wine Estates and JW Marriott,” said Nicole Carter, vice president, public relations for Treasury Wine Estates. “We are always looking for dynamic ways to talk to new consumers.  I believe the JWM Wine Club brings a new level of innovation into our hospitality business and allows us to bring a taste of California to consumers at home.”

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Ritz-Carlton to make Indonesian return with Bali resort

Ritz-Carlton Hotels is set to make a return to Indonesia with the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali in 2014.

The stunning island of Bali enjoys an enviable reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious retreat destinations with its combination of sandy beaches, local Balinese artisan culture and relaxed ambiance.

The location of the exquisite Ritz-Carlton, Bali is uniquely situated with a combination of white beach front and elevated cliff top settings, blended into the landscape gently enlivening the senses.

The resort property is owned by PT Oriental Indah Bali Hotel Company and designed by architects and designers, Burega Farnell.

It will feature 288 keys including 90 exceptional suites and 14 villas.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will also debut ten cliff top villas that offer sweeping views across the ocean.

“Bali is a naturally beautiful destination that global travellers have consistently returned to.

“We are delighted to be creating an authentic Balinese resort in Sawagan which will offer breathtaking views and carefully curated experiences and recreational activities that speak to the aspirations of today’s Ritz-Carlton guest,” said Herve Humler, president, Ritz-Carlton.

Bali is a dream wedding destination, and The Ritz-Carlton will provide a choice of two wedding chapels, a ballroom, three intimate function rooms and outdoor terraces to create memorable celebrations that will stay with a couple and their guests for a lifetime.

The luxury resort will also include six restaurants and bars, which include a cliff-side restaurant integrated into a natural cave that doubles as a private dining room.

Other restaurants include a beach grill, an Indonesian restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, a pool bar and all-day dining. Within the resort grounds, there will be a Ritz-Carlton Spa; a water sports pavilion and other recreational facilities.

View the original article here

Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach acquired for $75.3 Million

RLJ Lodging Trust today announced that it acquired the long-term leasehold interest in the 399-room Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach (the “Hotel”) for a purchase price of $75.3 million, or approximately $189,000 per key. The purchase price represents a forward capitalization rate of approximately 7.8% based on the Hotel’s projected 2014 net operating income. The Company purchased this asset with cash available on its balance sheet.

“We are excited to increase our presence in the west and expand our geographic footprint into another gateway market,” commented Thomas J. Baltimore, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Hotel’s strong brand affiliation and prime location in Waikiki will allow us to capitalize on the strong lodging fundamentals in Oahu.”

The Hotel is located in Honolulu, on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Honolulu serves as a major gateway for travelers from the Pacific Rim and is ranked as the fourth highest port of entry for international travelers to the U.S., behind only New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles. In 2012, visitor arrivals and spending exceeded historical 2006 and 2007 peak levels. According to the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, in 2012 visitor arrivals increased 9.6% and visitor spending increased 18.5% over prior year. Strong demand from Asia and the South Pacific region are projected to drive further growth for the market.

As one of the leading hotel markets in the U.S. and a major tourist destination, the Oahu market recorded revenue per available room (“RevPAR”) growth of 16.7% in 2012, which was the highest among the top 25 U.S. lodging markets according to Smith Travel Research. Year-to-date through April 2013, the strong growth continued as RevPAR increased 17.9% over the same time period in 2012. The Hotel’s RevPAR, which represents more than a 40% premium to the Company’s 2012 pro forma RevPAR, will be among the Company’s Top 10 hotels and further enhance the composition of the portfolio.

The Hotel’s prime location in the world famous neighborhood of Waikiki is in close proximity to the most visited tourist attractions in the area and various cultural and entertainment options. The Company expects that the Hotel will benefit from the positive momentum in the leisure and hospitality sectors as well as from demand generated by all four branches of the U.S. military, which have a significant presence on the island.

The Waikiki submarket is currently underrepresented by Marriott branded hotels. The Company expects that the Hotel’s affiliation with Marriott’s strong reservation system and guest loyalty program, as well as its proximity to the most visited attractions in the area, will benefit the asset and position it for strong growth. With limited supply and robust demand, the Company expects that this Hotel has significant upside and is well positioned to outperform.

With the addition of this asset, the Company now owns 149 properties, comprised of 148 hotels with more than 22,300 rooms and one planned hotel conversion, located in 22 states and the District of Columbia.

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Kerzner International has announced two new executives

Kerzner International has announced two new executive appointments, with Mark DeCocinis taking on the new role as president and chief operating officer for One&Only Resorts from August 1st.

At the same time, it has been confirmed Stephan Killinger will become president of Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort at the start of July.

DeCocinis will lead the strategic development of the One&Only brand, including oversight of all future developments and the operational success of all existing One&Only resorts.

One&Only recently announced three new resort projects:  One&Only Sanya, One&Only Montenegro and One&Only Jeddah with more announcements anticipated. 

The appointment of Mr. DeCocinis is strategically important as the company moves forward with expansion plans for One&Only worldwide.

“I am thrilled to have Mark join One&Only Resorts at this exciting time of growth for the company,” commented Alan Leibman, chief executive, Kerzner International.

“He is the perfect fit for this crucial role as his career achievements in developing passionate people to deliver service excellence reflect our own One&Only core values.

“I look forward to working with Mark as we continue to build the brand worldwide and open resorts which will set a new level of expectation in the ultra-luxury sector.”

DeCocinis joins One&Only with over 25 years in the luxury hospitality segment, having held both operational and corporate senior leadership positions.

Kerzner also announced the promotion of Stephan Killinger to president, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort.

Killinger has over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry and has worked around the world including: England, USA, Bahamas, Philippines, Australia, Bali, Switzerland, Egypt and Germany. 

He has held leadership positions for a number of luxury hotel brands, including Four Seasons, The Peninsula Hotels, and Ritz-Carlton.

His career also includes prior positions within Kerzner International including general manager of the award-winning One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives.

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Humphries to head up Viceroy in Middle East

Viceroy Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Andrew Humphries as regional vice president for the Middle East and general manager of Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi.

Humphries will oversee the daily operations of Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi as well the group’s other regional properties.

“It is a very exciting time to be joining Viceroy Hotel Group, particularly with the phenomenal growth the company is experiencing in the region.

“With one landmark property already in Abu Dhabi and the recently announced Viceroy Dubai, Palm Jumeirah along with our development pipeline, the next five years will be a tremendously dynamic time for the group,” commented Humphries.

Humphries takes his new role in Abu Dhabi after sixteen years with Four Seasons, most recently as regional vice president and general manager of the Four Seasons Resort Nevis, West Indies.

A professional of the luxury hospitality business, his career has been spent with some of the world’s most renowned hotels including The Savoy and Athanaeum hotels in London as well as the Royal Pavilion and Glitter Bay Resorts in Barbados.

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Choice Hotels International announces new vice president of brand strategy

Choice Hotels International, Inc, one of the world’s largest hotel companies, today announced that Anne Engelking Smith has joined the company as Vice President of Brand Strategy. Smith joins the company from AARP where she was responsible for overseeing the AARP brand in commercial marketing and driving membership growth including the organization’s multicultural membership base.

At Choice Hotels, Smith will oversee the brand strategies for nine of the company’s midscale, economy and extended stay brands: Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, Quality Inn, Clarion, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, Suburban and MainStay Suites. Smith will lead the overall strategy for this portfolio of brands to promote a compelling value proposition to both franchisees and consumers, with goals of optimizing unit growth, and driving central reservations. She will report to Alexandra Jaritz, Senior Vice President, Brand Strategy and Marketing.

“Choice Hotels enjoys some of the strongest brands in the industry from our iconic Comfort Inn to our storied Quality Inn which was the first of our brands. Under Anne’s leadership our portfolio of brands will become even stronger,” said Alexandra Jaritz, Senior Vice President Brand Strategy and Marketing.

Smith’s extensive brand management experience includes leadership roles at Frito-Lay, Inc., a division of Pepsico, where she was responsible for overseeing multiple award-winning campaigns and product launches including the relaunch of SunChips. She also led innovation for a $5 billion portfolio that included the Lay’s, Tostitos and Rold Gold brands. Smith also led an effort that highlighted the company’s environmental sustainability practices to evolve the company’s corporate identity.

Anne received her MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Earlier in her career, Anne worked in the publishing field, where she produced compelling content for science and technology textbooks to engage children in learning and demystifying these subjects. The creative skills she honed developing scholastic content combined with her educational background and consumer packaged goods experience, have sharpened her ability to create a compelling brand strategy and tell the “story” of a brand.

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Choice Hotels International enters joint venture to develop multiple Cambria Suites

Choice Hotels International, one of the world’s largest hotel companies, today announced that it has entered into a joint venture with private investment firm Fillmore Capital Partners, LLC and its affiliates to develop multiple Cambria Suites hotel properties, adding to the upscale brand’s growing clout. This marks the brand’s first institutional investor, underscoring the confidence developers and Choice Hotels have already expressed for the emerging brand’s performance potential. 

Designed as a lifestyle hotel brand, Cambria Suites offers more than just a place to sleep at night. It features a larger lobby to give guests a more social atmosphere, spacious all-suite rooms that include separate areas to work and rest, providing business and leisure travelers room to relax, socialise and network.
All Cambria Suites hotels are currently located in the US and are new-construction and the brand leads the rest of the upscale lodging segment in guest satisfaction scores as measured by guests’ likelihood to recommend (LTR). Currently, many Cambria Suites hotels are ranked #1 and #2 in their respective markets on TripAdvisor.

The brand is making its mark for delivering a consistently high level of style at an equally attractive price guests have come to count on.
“This is further proof to the investment and development communities that we are truly making great strides with Cambria Suites,” said Stephen P. Joyce, president and chief executive officer of Choice Hotels International. “Institutional investors bring instant influence to the table and Fillmore Capital is as good as it gets. Their team has the relationships with investors and access to capital coupled with a deep understanding of the hospitality industry.”

The venture with Fillmore provides for the future development of multiple Cambria Suites hotels at locations within urban markets. This strategic partnership aligns perfectly with Choice Hotels’ plan to establish Cambria Suites as a major brand in such key markets. Earlier this year the company announced that it was working with property developers Concord Hospitality, We Care Trading Co., Ltd, and Meyer Jabara Hotels to build three new Cambria Suites hotels in New York, to be located in Times Square and Chelsea in Manhattan, and downtown White Plains in nearby Westchester County.

“We have long admired the Cambria Suites brand’s strong product design and appropriateness for today’s lifestyle-oriented traveler,” said Ronald E. Silva, president and chief executive officer of Fillmore Capital Partners. “The current hospitality environment presents a unique opportunity to partner with Choice Hotels and expand this emerging brand through development in major markets. Further, our affiliate, Fillmore Hospitality, will manage the Cambria Suites hotels that we develop. Fillmore Hospitality has extensive experience in establishing and supporting new and emerging brands along with independent hotels and resorts, which will provide a natural management fit for our properties.”

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Michelin to-go at Abama Golf & Spa resort

Abama Golf & Spa Resort, Tenerife, launches a dining service with a difference this month allowing guests to savour the hotel’s Michelin treats in the lunar-like landscapes of the Teide National Park. From mid-June 2013 this exclusive excursion will see residents escorted to Teide by one of the island’s expert astronomers to view awe-inspiring constellations accompanied by a bespoke hamper of Michelin picnic courses from Abama’s M.B and Kabuki restaurants.

Renowned for its gastronomic excellence, Abama is currently the only hotel in Spain with two Michelin-starred restaurants. These include the seven-starred Basque chef Martin Berasategui’s M.B. restaurant and Abama Kabuki, the Canary Island outpost of the Madrid-born Japanese fusion concept, which won its star at the hands of Canarian chef Daniel Franco in November last year.

Pushing the pleasure principal, the Canary Island gem of Abama has launched this celestial treat to awaken all the senses on a journey of taste and natural wonder. On arrival at Teide National Park, home to the third largest volcano in the world and well known as Spain’s highest peak, guests will be led to a prime star-gazing spot to experience breath-taking star showers and constellations at the hands of one of the island’s most knowledgeable astronomers.

Camping out in ultimate luxury, Abama’s Michelin picnic will include a unique fusion of its chefs’ signature treats, from Daniel Franco’s elegant and technical Japanese cooking with a Canarian flavour shown in his Usuzukuri of Cherne fish, to Martin Berasategui’s renowned Foie Gras and Rio Frio Caviar. A sophisticated menu of some of the chef’s most imaginative dishes will be presented in an eight course feast closed by a selection of cheeses from the Basque country and Canary Islands, accompanied by Champagne and to be enjoyed wrapped in the comfort of the finest cashmere blankets.

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Hotwire reveals that major cities in peak season are bucking trend

Hotwire.com®, a leading discount travel site, today revealed its list of top five Fourth of July deal destinations. Since Independence Day falls on a Thursday, travelers can get the biggest bang for their buck by lengthening their holiday with a four or five day weekend. To help Americans get that extra vacation this year, several major cities that typically see high prices during this holiday are instead topping the list of price drops. With the break less than two weeks away, these deals will help guide travelers toward destinations where they can get their fireworks and festivities at a discount.

“Independence Day is of course a very popular – and often expensive – holiday, but there are several big cities that are actually cheaper than last year, resulting in some deep savings for those hoping to plan an affordable and fun getaway,” said Pierre-Etienne Chartier, Vice President of the Hotwire Group. “Many of these cities are business hubs as well, and since there will likely be reduced travel for the work week, hotels are dropping prices in order to attract leisure travelers. The discounts we’re seeing this year are worth celebrating, and now travelers can extend their stays instead of their travel budgets.”

Among the best destinations to score a deal for the holiday are Chicago, Portland, Boston, Seattle and Los Angeles. Those looking for big-city deals in the U.S. need look no further than Chicago, which is offering an 11 percent price drop this Fourth of July compared to last year. June was an especially busy (and expensive) month for Chicago due to conventions, but since the Fourth disrupts business travel, people should find deep discounts. By staying through the weekend, visitors can catch a Cubs game and enjoy the annual fireworks display at the Navy Pier.

Next on the list is Portland, OR, down 10 percent from last year. Many Portland-area residents use the holiday to spend their time in the great outdoors, causing hoteliers to drop prices to attract more business to the city. Visitors to Portland can kick-off their Fourth with the Waterfront Blues Festival in the downtown area or head to Oaks Amusement Park for family-friendly activities and a larger-than-life fireworks show.

Rounding out the deal destinations for the Fourth of July holiday are Boston (seven percent drop), Seattle (five percent drop) and Los Angeles (three percent drop). All three are already-popular destinations that are even sweeter given the drops in hotel prices, especially Boston which often is one of the most visited 4th of July destinations. Each of these cities sees plenty of business travel, but with the holiday cutting the business week short, hotels are dropping their prices to help fill rooms. The city of Boston will host its 31st annual Harborfest and its 40th annual Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular this year – two must-sees for visitors. Seattle boasts an impressive fireworks display on Lake Union, the Seafair Summer Fourth festival in Gas Works Park and the Seattle International Beer Festival at Fisher Pavilion. Finally, the skies of Los Angles will be glowing with fireworks in a variety of locations – like the Rose Bowl, Disneyland and the Queen Mary.

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Swissôtel outlines new Baku, Azerbaijan, property

The expansion of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts continues at the crossroads of south-west Asia and Europe with a new deluxe hotel in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Scheduled to open in 2015, Swissôtel Baku is currently under construction and will open in time for the first European Olympic Games.

The mixed use complex consists of two towers set upon a shared podium which will accommodate businesses, retail and entertainment outlets and numerous restaurants.

Swissôtel Baku will be situated in the taller, 160-metre tower and will offer 149 rooms and suites, as well as a Swissôtel Living with 45 furnished apartments and 80 Swissôtel Residences, which will be sold to private individuals looking to enjoy the benefits of Swissôtel services from the comfort of their home.

Food and beverage offerings will include a lobby bar and lounge, an all-day restaurant, and a restaurant and bar on the top floor which will boast panoramic views over the city.

Additional facilities will comprise a 2100sqm Pürovel Spa & Sport, the company’s signature spa brand, and 3000sqm of meeting and event facilities including a dedicated 900sqm outdoor space.

Swissôtel Baku is ideally situated with a prominent, elevated position featuring unrivalled views across the city and its crescent shaped bay. The hotel is located in an elegant, residential area of the city and is close to the Parliament buildings.

Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, is the economic and cultural heart of the country and boasts several universities, colleges, research institutes, theatres and museums.

With its population of two million inhabitants, it is the most densely-populated city in the Caucasus. 

Nestled between the Caucasus and the Caspian Sea, and bordering Russia to the north, Georgia to the north-west and Armenia to the west, Azerbaijan has been an independent state since 1991.

The economy has seen exponential growth, largely due to the expansion of the oil industry and increased production of natural gas, representing the two most important economic sectors for the country.

The owner and developer of the project is Arya Insaat, advised by one of the world’s leading hospitality consultancies, Servotel Corporation.

The project will be designed by internationally recognized and award-winning architectural firm Kreatif Mimarlik.

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Aloft brand makes debut in Cancun

Starwood’s Aloft brand has made its debut in Cancun, Mexico. The property is located in the Hotel Zone, adjacent to Cancun Center, the city’s convention and exhibition center, and walking distance from dining, shopping and nightlife.

Aloft Cancun features the atmospheric public spaces that have made Aloft a worldwide hit. Guests will be able to mix and mingle, read the paper, work on laptops, play a game of pool or grab a drink with friends at the re:mixSM communal lobby area or at the w xyzSM bar.

The hotel will also have a rooftop pool and re:fuel café as well as a re:chargeSM gym. It will have approximately 6,500 square feet of banquet and meeting space.

“Since its launch, Aloft has emerged as a popular choice among savvy business travelers. We are thrilled to launch the Aloft brand in Cancun, a renowned tourist destination as well as a prime business travel destination that is seeing increased demand in the meetings and conventions segment,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, Co-President the Americas.

“This opening is also an important step for Starwood as it marks our 25th hotel in Mexico and the entrance of our eighth brand in the country. Furthermore, it allows us to continue to build on the momentum of the Aloft brand in Latin America.” Librizzi added.

The Aloft brand made its debut in Latin America in 2011 with the opening of the Aloft Bogota Airport, followed by Aloft San Jose in Costa Rica three months later. Currently, there are eight Aloft branded hotels in operation or in development in the region, including the Aloft Panama, which will open in June. Aloft Merida and Aloft Guadalajara are slated to open in 2014, and Aloft Asuncion and Aloft Montevideo will open their doors in 2015.

“We’re delighted that Cancun will be the launching platform for the Aloft brand in Mexico, and we are excited to partner with Starwood in this project,” said Mauricio Hamui Hilwani, owner and Director of Promotora TIIM. “Cancun continues to establish itself as an important convention and tourism hub, as demand increases from leisure and business travelers. As a result, it is the ideal location for Aloft – a brand that caters to both segments.”

Aloft Cancun is located along the main avenue of Cancun, Boulevard Kukulcan, only 25 minutes away from the International Airport, 15 minutes from downtown and walking distance to several key entertainment places, including the city’s famous white-sand beaches.

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Device Stops Asthmatic Kids' Inhaler Woes

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By Deanna Pogorelc, MedCity News

Frustrated by the challenges of giving her young son his daily asthma treatments, Sarah Cota came up with an idea. Why not ease the burden of using a nebulizer by taking away the mask and using it while the child is sleeping?

That's the idea behind the JettPak, the flagship product being developed by Bend, Ore., startup JettStream Inc. It's a hands-free, mask-free add-on for nebulizers currently on the market. Intended to deliver medication to the child while he's sleeping, the base of the device can slide under a pillow or mattress.

The JettPak has an adjustable arm that delivers the medication next to the child's face. According to a July blog post from Jim Harrer, an entrepreneur and chief operations officer of the company, it will retail for about $200.

Cota didn't return a call last week, but she told the Cascade Business News earlier this month that the estimated launch date for the device was spring 2013. Right now, the startup is raising money for the launch; it's already secured $115,000 in debt and equity, and could raise up to $750,000, according to a recent U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing.

As the company's website notes, it has already done lab testing that shows the device delivers the same doses of medicine as a nebulizer alone, and it's planning to do a clinical trial with 50 devices at Bend Memorial Clinic.

Asthma is the most common chronic childhood disease and affects nearly 5 million U.S. children. In addition to quick-relief medications, long-term control medications taken daily are often prescribed.

Many of these medications can be used with a nebulizer for asthma sufferers who are too sick or young to use an inhaler effectively. But some children show resistance to these administration methods, as detailed in Cota's blog.

She's working with a former product development executive, Matt Smith, and Harrer to bring the device to market.

Companion to the device is JettEducation, an online database being developed for parents, and JettCommunity, a digital support community.

This article was adapted from one that first appeared on Sept. 24, 2012, in MedCityNews.com with permission from MedCity Media.

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Suboxone Maker Pulls Pills in Favor of Film

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By John Gever, Senior Editor, MedPage Today

The buprenorphine-naloxone combination product (Suboxone) in sublingual tablet form will soon be pulled from the U.S. market because its child-resistant packaging isn't effective enough, its manufacturer said.

Citing "increasing concerns with pediatric exposure" to the tablet form, Reckitt Benckiser Pharmaceuticals announced that it would be discontinued in the United States over the next 6 months, or "possibly sooner depending on discussions with the FDA."

A sublingual film formulation with the same dosage of buprenorphine and naloxone, already approved and available in the U.S., will take the tablets' place, the company said.

Analysis of data from the U.S. Poison Control Center recently indicated that children had eaten tablets at "significantly higher rates" than the film formulation, according to Reckitt Benckiser.

"The rates for Suboxone Tablets were 7.8 to 8.5 times greater depending on the study period," the firm said.

Tablets are packaged in a 30-dose bottle with a child-resistant cap. The packaging does not appear to be defective, the company indicated; rather, patients may be leaving the cap off.

The sublingual film comes in individual packets that may be less tempting to an unsupervised child.

Patients currently taking the tablet form should talk to their physicians about transitioning to the film, Reckitt Benckiser said.

John Gever

Senior Editor

John Gever, Senior Editor, has covered biomedicine and medical technology for 30 years. He holds a B.S. from the University of Michigan and an M.S. from Boston University. Now based in Pittsburgh, he is the daily assignment editor for MedPage Today as well as general factotum on the reporting side. Go Pirates/Penguins/Steelers!

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FDA Warns About GI Product

Cole Petrochko

Staff Writer

Cole Petrochko started his journalism career at MedPage Today in 2009, after graduating from New York University with B.A.s in Journalism and Psychology. When not writing for MedPage Today, he blogs about nerd culture, designs websites, and buys and sells collectible card game cards. He is based out of MedPage Today's Little Falls, N.J. Headquarters.

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Burn Risk Seen with Topical Pain Relievers

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By Cole Petrochko, Associate Staff Writer, MedPage Today

WASHINGTON -- The FDA warned Thursday of the risks of rare but serious chemical burns with certain over-the-counter topical pain relievers, including Bengay, Capzasin, Flexall, Icy Hot, and Mentholatum.

The agency has noted a number of adverse event reports that range from burning sensations to hospitalizations for first- to third-degree burns within 24 hours of the first application.

Topical muscle and joint pain relievers are usually formulated as creams, lotions, ointments, and patches and contain menthol, methyl salicylate, or capsaicin as single or combination active ingredients.

The reports of second- and third-degree burns were mostly related to products with menthol or menthol and methyl salicylate as active ingredients, the agency said in a statement. In those products, menthol concentrations exceeded 3% and methyl salicylate concentrations exceeded 10%.

To reduce risk of the adverse events, the agency said, patients should avoid tightly bandaging or applying localized heat -- such as with heating pads or lamps -- after using the pain reliever.

Also, the agency noted, the products should not be applied to open wounds, broken skin, mucous membranes, or the eyes.

The agency added that, despite the serious adverse event reports, the products' labels would not be forced to carry a warning for the skin reactions at this time.

Cole Petrochko

Staff Writer

Cole Petrochko started his journalism career at MedPage Today in 2009, after graduating from New York University with B.A.s in Journalism and Psychology. When not writing for MedPage Today, he blogs about nerd culture, designs websites, and buys and sells collectible card game cards. He is based out of MedPage Today's Little Falls, N.J. Headquarters.

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