Latest news with #Skytrax
The Advertiser
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Advertiser
'Air force baby': Why this Aussie TikToker is moving into Changi Airport
TikToker Maddy MacRae (inset) and Changi Airport, where she is living for a week. By Sarah Falson Updated July 29 2025 - 1:59pm, first published 12:52pm Move over Tom Hanks, an Australian comedian and TikToker has moved into Changi Airport until August. Subscribe now for unlimited access. or signup to continue reading All articles from our website The digital version of Today's Paper All other in your area Can you actually die of boredom living in an airport? Sydneysider Maddy MacRae plans to find out for a week, and live stream her way through it. The viral sensation said she was inspired to live in an airport after watching Tom Hanks in the 2004 film The Terminal recently, and just had to try it out for herself. She chose well; there are definitely more boring airports out there than Singapore's Changi, which was named World's Best Airport 2025 by Skytrax. "It's quite insane how much stuff you can do at Changi - more than you probably expect," Ms MacRae told ACM (the publisher of this masthead). "I'm looking forward to visiting Jewel, which is this huge entertainment and shopping complex connected to the four terminals. It looks like there's lots of things to do there, which should help pass the time. Ooo and the butterfly garden. Can't forget that." Changi does indeed have an actual butterfly garden, as well as a cactus garden, a park with floral canopies, the Enchanted Garden full of orchids, and another garden called Dreamscape which "merges Nature and Technology in a magical symphony", according to the Changi website. Jewel Changi Airport is a multi-dimensional entertainment and retail complex, and the airport also boasts luxury shops, a huge array of food outlets, a swimming pool and a dinosaur trail called Jurassic Mile. Changi's Butterfly Garden. Ms MacRae isn't slumming it like Mr Hanks and sleeping across the airport seats; the TikToker is staying at the Crowne Plaza hotel inside Changi Airport. "I figured that if I'm going to be living inside an airport for a week, I at least deserve a decent night's sleep," she said. Ms MacRae's TikTok includes humorous content about friends, weddings, family, relationships and dating, and she also posts a healthy amount of travel content. She revealed travel had an important place in her life, and not just because it's fun. "I'm an air force baby! My dad was in the air force and is now a Qantas pilot, so I've been so very lucky to travel throughout my life," she said. "And now my job takes me all over the world and I get to share that with my audience. Learning about new cultures and trying new experiences and foods has always been the best part about travelling." Changi's Jewel Rain Vortex Rainbow. Her travel content includes a bit about the latest airline trend in which they record their safety demonstrations "anywhere but on a plane", as well as the ultra-organised individual who organises the friend-group holiday and keeps everyone on a tight schedule. Ms MacRae called travel content "so relatable". "I loved making the safety demonstration video but I've also made a couple on airport security being the scariest experience ever and also watching someone else's movie on a plane rather than your own - why is their movie so captivating when I can't even hear it and I have a screen right in front of me??" she said. Follow Maddy MacRae @maddy_macrae_ on TikTok to see her shenanigans at Changi Airport, including live streams, until she heads home on Saturday, August 2. Words by Sarah Falson Sarah is ACM's travel producer. She believes regional travel is just as fun (if not better) than staying in the big cities and loves any travel experience to do with nature, animals and food!.My all-time favourite destination is ... Cornwall. From the giant seagulls to the blustery beaches, Cornish pasties and fishing villages, it stirs something romantic and seafaring in me. Next on my bucket list is … Mongolia. I want to go somewhere really unique that feels totally foreign and challenges my way of life. My top travel tip is … Don't plan too much. Walk the streets and let it happen. And make sure you check out what's within a few blocks of your hotel - sometimes the best local food is found that way.
Time Out
4 days ago
- Business
- Time Out
Suvarnabhumi Airport now connects the most airlines on Earth
Thailand's Suvarnabhumi Airport tops the world's airports in one surprising metric: the number of airlines operating scheduled flights, according to a new ranking by FlightConnections and Brilliant Maps. The national gateway is officially the most airline-connected airport in the world, with 113 airlines flying in and out of its gates. That's more than Paris Charles de Gaulle, Dubai International and even Istanbul – some of the world's greatest aviation powerhouses. Here's what that looks like in numbers: 113 airlines operating scheduled flights 151 destinations worldwide 484 daily flights 51.6 million passengers in 2024 (expected to hit 65 million in 2025) All of this is part of a larger transformation. Suvarnabhumi climbed from 58th to 39th place in Skytrax's Top 100 Airports of 2025, thanks to recent upgrades like a new satellite terminal and revamped passenger experience zones. Once just a regional stopover, the airport is now stepping confidently into the ranks of top-tier global aviation hubs. Top five airports with the most airlines (2025) Suvarnabhumi (BKK) – 113 airlines Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris – 105 airlines Dubai International (DXB) – 97 airlines Istanbul (IST) – 93 airlines Rome Fiumicino (FCO) – 92 airlines Still, growth comes with growing pains. Bigger crowds mean longer queues, busier terminals, and rising expectations. If Suvarnabhumi hopes to crack Skytrax's top 20 by 2029, big numbers alone won't be enough. The airport will need faster security checks, smoother transfers, and less congested concourses that don't feel like rush hour. According to the latest Skytrax survey, Singapore's Changi Airport reclaimed the number one spot once again, with other Asian hubs dominating the top ten. Suvarnabhumi has made impressive strides but to climb further, it must continue prioritizing passenger experience as traffic continues to surge. With momentum on its side and major upgrades underway, Bangkok's main airport is well-positioned for the next chapter. The challenge now is turning connectivity into quality.
New York Post
5 days ago
- New York Post
US carriers shamed in surprising new list of the world's ‘cleanest' airlines
Whether you're a frequent flyer or tentative traveler, no one wants to be on a dirty plane. From tissues left in the seat-back pocket, gross complimentary blankets, crumbs on the tray table and germ-ridden windows, there's plenty to be wary of when boarding a plane. But a handful of airlines really prioritize the cleanliness of the cabins. 3 Taiwan-based Eva Air was named the cleanest airline in the world for 2025. Heorshe – Skytrax, an international air transport rating organization, released its list of the World's Cleanest Airlines for 2025, based on passenger surveys examining the standard and quality of cleanliness of aircraft cabins. Passengers were asked to score seat areas, tables, carpets, cabin panels and lavatories in the survey, which was conducted from September 2024 to May 2025 on a voluntary basis. The top three cleanest airlines were all based in Asia, with Taiwan-based Eva Air rewarded as the cleanest airline in the world, moving up from its No. 3 spot in last year's rankings. In second place was Japanese-based All Nippon Airways (ANA), followed by Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific in third. 'We believe a pristine cabin environment is fundamental to our passengers' comfort and peace of mind,' a spokesperson for ANA told Condé Nast Traveler. 'We are dedicated to continuously enhancing our cleaning protocols to ensure every ANA journey is a pleasant and fresh experience.' Rounding out the top five were Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines in fourth and fifth place, respectively. Aside from the top three, 10 more Asia-based carriers made it into the top 20 — marking 13 total carriers in Asia. 3 Japanese-based All Nippon Airways (ANA) was named the second cleanest in the world. YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images Notably, not a single U.S. airline made it onto the global list of the world's cleanest airlines. However, Skytrax also listed the cleanest airline by region, and Delta Air Lines was named Cleanest Airline in North America 2025. According to Reader's Digest, Delta works hard to maintain a clean cabin with specialized cleaning teams that perform a thorough cleaning process between every single flight. The airplanes also reportedly get deep cleanings overnight that include vacuuming, shampooing the carpets and detailing the seats and tray tables. 3 Hainan Airlines just missed the top five, coming in at No. 6. VanderWolf Images – Here is Skytrax's complete top 20 list of cleanest airlines in the world for 2025:
Indian Express
19-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Top 10 best airlines in the world: See if any Indian airline makes the cut
Top 10 best airlines in the world: Choosing the right airline can have a real impact on your travel experience, especially on long-haul international flights where comfort, timeliness, and good service is more than just desirable; it is essential. From legroom and service to inflight meals and entertainment, the difference between a good flight and a great one can be vast. That's where the Skytrax World Airline Awards – often dubbed the 'Oscars of the aviation industry' – come in. Based on millions of passenger reviews across categories, they offer one of the most respected barometers of excellence in the skies. In the 2025 edition, the rankings reflect how fiercely global airlines are competing not just to raise standards but to distinguish themselves regionally and experientially. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, knowing who is leading the way can help you make travel decisions, Unsurprisingly, Qatar Airways continues its reign with a record-breaking ninth title as the World's Best Airline—more than any other airline in Skytrax history. It leads a mix of legacy giants and regional heavyweights that are pushing the boundaries of comfort, innovation and sustainability. While no Indian airline made it to the global top 10 this year, the competition makes clear what it takes to be world-class—from elevated design and service to eco-conscious operations. Source: Skytrax World Airline Awards At the 2025 Skytrax Awards, Qatar Airways has been awarded 'World's Best Airline', reconfirming its position as a world leader. Based in Doha, Qatar Airways continues to provide luxury and world-class service to more than 170 destinations. As of this year, it has become the first Middle Eastern airline to receive the highest level of certification with IATA's Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme. Singapore Airlines, ranked the world's second-largest airline, has unveiled a revamped A380 cabin as part of an $850 million upgrade. Known for flying some of the world's most advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft, its fleet includes the Airbus A350, A380, and Boeing 777-300ER. Cathay Pacific, headquartered in Hong Kong and part of the Swire Group, was voted the third best airline in the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The airline won the award for 'World's Best Economy Class Airline,' as well as AIrbis' 'Best Inflight Entertainment in the world'. With three, two Michelin starred, dining, refreshed cabins, and fleet-wide connectivity, Emirates, based in Dubai as part of The Emirates Group, is one of the largest airlines in the world, servicing cities across six continents. It has a reputation for comfortable cabins and reliable service, and it is also advancing sustainable practices by way of measures to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and aid in wildlife conservation. All Nippon Airways (ANA), based in Minato City, Tokyo, is a leading global carrier under ANA Holdings Inc. Known for its outstanding service and consistent top-tier rankings, ANA operates flights to 42 international cities and about 50 domestic locations across Japan. Established in 1933, Turkish Airlines has become a major global airline with services to 130 countries and a fleet size of over 480 aircraft. Almost 50 percent state owned, Turkish Airlines has built a stalwart reputation for great service, competitive pricing, fabulous catering and entertainment. Turkish Airlines was recognized as the Best Airline in Europe by the Skytrax World Airline Awards in 2025. Korean Air is ranked seventh in the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards and is gaining its global footprint as part of the Hanjin Group based in Seoul. After its merger with Asiana Airlines, the airline will expand its authority as a full-service provider in Asia. The airline also emphasizes sustainability with its GREEN SKYPASS program. Loyalty members are able to begin supporting carbon neutrality by further developing eco-friendly forests. Air France has moved up to eighth place in the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, improving on last year's ninth spot. Part of the Air France-KLM Group, the airline has now held the title of Best Airline in Western Europe for five straight years, thanks to its top-tier First Class and refined lounge experience. Backed by strong global ties and a wide-reaching network, it remains a key player in international aviation. Japan Airlines, part of the JAL Group, has earned its spot among the world's top airlines, consistently praised for its spotless cabins, reliable punctuality, and refined in-flight service. With a 5-Star Skytrax rating for eight years running and the launch of the A350-1000, the airline continues to set high standards across global and domestic routes. Hainan Airlines, known for its exceptional service and recognition from the Skytrax World Airline Awards, rounds off the world's top 10 largest airlines. With the recent addition of its first Airbus A321neo, the carrier is strengthening its international and regional reach. Backed by a solid safety record and over 1,700 routes, it remains a major force in China's expanding global aviation footprint.
The Star
18-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
MAHB enhances KLIA T1 with RM30mil upgrades to improve passenger experience
SEPANG: Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has invested RM30 million in the first half of 2025 to improve overall passenger experience and operational efficiency at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA T1), marking the group's first major airport upgrade since its privatisation in February. KLIA T1 general manager of operations Abd Hasman Abd Muhimim said that with the rollout of 14 improvements and new features, MAHB hopes to raise KLIA's Airport Service Quality (ASQ) score and improve its Skytrax ranking. He said the enhancements are also part of MAHB's preparation to welcome an expected influx of passengers to KLIA, as Malaysia gears up to host the 47th ASEAN Summit in October and Visit Malaysia Year 2026. "For these enhancements, we do not set any budget cap. We will continue to invest in upgrading all facilities at KLIA. "This is especially important as, in the first half of 2025, KLIA has recorded 30.1 million passengers, a 9.9 per cent increase compared to the same period last year,' he told reporters during a media walkabout here. Members of the media were briefed on the improvements made at KLIA during the session. Among the key upgrades focused on improving processing speed and reducing congestion, MAHB has implemented a proof-of-concept open-belt bag-drop system comprising five mobile check-in units, capable of handling up to 10 times more baggage per hour than conventional counters. At the domestic security checkpoints, lanes have been reconfigured with extended trays and designated areas for unpacking and repacking, increasing throughput from 770 passengers per hour to 1,569 passengers per hour, with average wait times now reduced to under five minutes. For international departures, nine new self-scanning boarding pass lanes have replaced six manual counters. These are equipped with step-by-step digital instructions to support faster processing and minimise queuing. Two priority lane immigration counters have also been introduced for families with children, the elderly, expectant mothers and persons with reduced mobility. MAHB has further improved emergency response capability by deploying three paramedic teams on e-scooters, equipped with oxygen tanks, trauma kits and automated external defibrillators (AEDs), stationed at both the main terminal and the satellite building. To enhance passenger comfort and accessibility, 5,000 trolleys have been replaced with lightweight, strap-free models equipped with brakes for safer handling. Additionally, 54 parking bays have been converted into 36 wider, family-friendly lots located closer to the terminal entrance. To improve accessibility, 80 public washrooms have been upgraded with wider entrances, sensor-tap sinks and emergency call buttons, while 100 new wheelchairs are now available for free use at key passenger areas. Two themed nappy-change rooms, equipped with baby cots, hot-water dispensers and feeding areas, have also been opened, with three more scheduled for completion by August. MAHB also introduced cultural enhancements at KLIA, including two large murals at Piers H and G featuring heritage elements from Penang and Melaka, aimed at enriching the passenger environment with local character. Young travellers can now enjoy a newly installed orangutan-themed playground at Gate C30 in the satellite building. - Bernama
