Kate Harden-England

GoTravelX closes Camino-based blockchain flight-tracking proof of concept

✈️ GoTravelX achieved a breakthrough by using blockchain on Camino Network to transform United Airlines flight data into a single verifiable source. This proof of concept enables real-time updates for airport operations, enhancing coordination for teams like ground support and maintenance through a subscription model. Paul Khanna of GoTravelX confirmed the shift from proof to rollout, while Anke Hsu of Chain4Travel emphasized the importance of a consistent data source. Key uses include real-time notifications for flight events.

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HBX Group launches conscious OTA with Queer Destinations

📅 Queer Destinations and HBX Group have launched a new Conscious Online Travel Platform, aiming to improve how LGBTQ+ travelers engage with businesses and destinations globally. With a potential $3.7 trillion annual spending power, the LGBTQ+ community ranks as the fifth largest economy. The platform fosters inclusivity, offering certified networks that reinvest into local queer communities via collaborations with LGBTQ+ NGOs. Debuting at ITB Berlin, it targets expansion in Spain, Mexico, Brazil, and Greece.

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Peakwork bag big clients for its new tour operator platform

💻 Peakwork's nexTOs platform was fully implemented by Capital Holidays and Etihad Holidays in Germany and the UK. The project, completed in just three months, integrated inventory management and booking processes, enhancing transparency and efficiency. Capital Holidays focuses on premium packages to Egypt and Türkiye, while Etihad Holidays targets UAE travel for European customers. The rollout involved teams in Munich, London, and Abu Dhabi, with plans for further expansion, including in the UAE.

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Ex-Tripadvisor exec Katherine Clark becomes Kayak’s new GM and VP of EMEA

✈️ KAYAK has appointed Katherine Clark as general manager and VP for EMEA. 🌍 With over 20 years of experience, she previously led flights, cars, and vacation rentals at Tripadvisor. Based in London, Clark will enhance KAYAK's regional strategy, focusing on commercial partnerships and growth in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Her efforts aim to deepen relationships with airlines, hotels, and more to enhance the travel experience for KAYAK's frequent travelers.

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‘Maximalism’ emerges as top 2026 travel trend

🌍 HBX Group, 2026: Maximalism is the standout travel trend with spending splurges and multi-stop adventures. Key trends include coolcationing, nature, entertainment, and fandom tourism. Javier Cabrerizo, HBX's AI officer, highlights ultra-personalized itineraries influenced by AI and social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. There's a gap between online content and booking trips, urging businesses to offer transaction-ready solutions on social media to streamline the TikTok-to-booking process. Effective AI and social media use can attract new audiences.

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Casago founder Steve Schwab steps down as CEO to chair Board

📈 Casago's CEO, Steve Schwab, will step down near the end of the year. Schwab will chair the Board to focus on long-term strategy and franchise community engagement. Joe Riley, the current president, will become CEO in October, marking a strategic transition with Schwab as chairman. Schwab has led Casago for 25 years, building a significant presence in holiday rentals and property management. The transition period aims to ensure a seamless leadership change.

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Amadeus acquires SkyLink to accelerate the deployment of AI in travel

🛫 Amadeus has acquired AI-first U.S. technology firm SkyLink to enhance corporate travel solutions. SkyLink, known for its AI architecture and chat platform integration, adds value to Amadeus' strategy by supporting Travel Management Companies (TMCs) and expanding in North America. Amadeus plans to broaden AI capabilities across airlines, airports, and hospitality, leveraging its global scale and integrated business logic. Founded in 1987, Amadeus emphasizes reliability and innovation in the travel industry.

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Only 12% of airlines tie AI to revenue growth, finds Accenture

🚀 Accenture's study highlights a lag in AI adoption in aviation compared to other sectors. 58% of airlines use AI on outdated systems, and only 12% link AI to revenue growth. In contrast, 100% of Consumer Goods and Retail leaders see AI as strategic, with nearly half running over 10 initiatives. Only 44% of airlines have deployed AI, mostly as small pilots. 61% of airlines lack agentic AI projects, while 98% of Consumer Goods and Retail have 1-5 pilots.

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RMS expands RMS Pay further

💸 Australian firm RMS launches automated invoicing and Advanced Payment Schedules for properties with high transaction volumes, like hotels and serviced apartments. This automation, integrated with GoCardless, triggers collections via saved credit cards, RMS PayByLink, or Direct Debit, reducing manual tasks and missed payments. Cameron Gough, RMS’s chief product officer, highlights enhanced cash flow control and reduced no-shows. This solution aids long-stay accommodations and corporate housing by facilitating structured payment plans and recurring billing.

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Journey integrates with TablePath to bring dining into booking flow

📅 Journey and TablePath integrate in 2023 to enhance hotel retailing by merging dining with room and spa bookings. Simon Bullingham, Journey's CEO, aims to market the full hotel experience, while Martin Poucher of TablePath highlights their platform's support for over a million bookings monthly. This collaboration seeks to streamline the guest experience across hundreds of restaurants and hotels.

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