Hawai’i’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Unveils New Electric Trams to Enhance Sustainable Travel Experience

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) has taken a significant step toward sustainability with the introduction of three electric trams for its Wiki Wiki Shuttle service. These new vehicles are part of a broader initiative to support the State of Hawai’i’s fleet electrification goals, aligning with the growing push for environmentally friendly ground transportation. This effort comes as part of a collaboration with Sustainability Partners, a public benefit company focused on facilitating the transition to sustainable infrastructure.

The Wiki Wiki Shuttle, which provides free intra-airport transport between terminals and concourses at HNL, has now upgraded to electric mobility, marking a key milestone in the airport’s sustainability journey. The introduction of these MotoEV Electro Transit Buddy trams, which come equipped with trailers, aims to reduce emissions and create a cleaner, greener environment for both airport staff and travelers.

These electric trams are designed to meet the specific needs of airport transit systems, offering ADA-compliant accessibility for passengers with disabilities. The electric shuttle fleet is an essential addition to the airport’s efforts in reducing its carbon footprint while enhancing passenger experience through quieter, eco-friendly transportation options.

“The Wiki Wiki Shuttle is a vital part of daily operations, connecting passengers comfortably between terminals and concourses,” said Hawai’i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “Adding these low-cost electric trams improves the airport experience, removing the noise and odor of our old transports and increasing energy efficiency.”

Sustainability Partners played a pivotal role in the delivery of this electric vehicle fleet, through their Electric Vehicles as a Service (EVaaS) model. This innovative approach simplifies the adoption of electric vehicle fleets for public entities by providing solutions to common challenges such as procurement, customization, and charging infrastructure. Through EVaaS, Sustainability Partners ensures that agencies like HNL benefit from turnkey electric vehicle deployments that include long-term maintenance and operational support, enabling seamless transitions to electric fleets.

In addition to the electric trams, Sustainability Partners has provided a coordinated charging infrastructure to support the daily operational requirements of the new fleet. The setup ensures that the trams are ready to serve passengers without interruptions, allowing for smooth and continuous airport shuttle services.

Further enhancing the safety and functionality of the new shuttle fleet, the electric trams come equipped with advanced monitoring technology, including GPS and camera systems. This technology enables real-time tracking and visibility, ensuring that fleet managers have the tools they need to monitor operations effectively. The integration of this technology also enhances safety by allowing operators to track tram locations, manage routes, and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Made in the U.S.A, the MotoEV Electro Transit Buddy trams are built using American-made components, supporting the local economy and aligning with broader sustainability goals. These electric trams will play a vital role in the ongoing effort to transition Hawai’i’s ground transportation systems toward more sustainable practices. With the new fleet now in operation, the State of Hawai’i moves a step closer to meeting its ambitious emissions reduction targets for the future.

HNL’s partnership with Sustainability Partners showcases a growing commitment to green transportation solutions in aviation and airport operations, setting a leading example for other airports around the world to follow. With these electric shuttles, HNL not only supports passenger movement but also advances Hawai’i’s sustainable transportation initiatives.

As the demand for eco-conscious travel options grows, initiatives like this underscore the significant potential for public-private partnerships in achieving large-scale sustainability goals. By integrating electric vehicles into public transit systems, Sustainability Partners is helping pave the way for a greener future, both in Hawai’i and beyond.

Through its EVaaS model, Sustainability Partners supports public agencies by facilitating vehicles, infrastructure, ongoing care, and preventative maintenance. “These new electric trams help modernize the Wiki Wiki Shuttle while supporting Hawai’i’s broader transition to lower-emission transportation. By combining vehicle delivery, charging coordination, and ongoing support through our Electric Vehicles as a Service model, we help public agencies reduce complexity and scale electrification with confidence,” said Arnold Albiar, Sustainability Partners’ Managing Partner of Hawai’i.

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Chicago Joins Houston, Miami, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Juan and More US Cities as Spirit Airlines Celebrates 20th Anniversary at Hartsfield-Jackson with Exclusive Deals and New Flights

Chicago joins Houston, Miami, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Juan, and more U.S. cities as Spirit Airlines celebrates its 20th anniversary at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport with new flights and exclusive deals. The airline is expanding its service and increasing frequency to meet growing demand while offering discounts for a limited time.

Spirit Airlines is celebrating two decades of flying high at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a special anniversary promotion offering travelers an incredible deal to mark the milestone. From February 17 through February 18, 2026, passengers can enjoy a 20% discount on base fares when booking flights for travel between March 15 and May 20, 2026. This limited-time offer comes as the airline commemorates 20 years of service at one of the world’s busiest airports.

In addition to the anniversary deal, Spirit is ramping up its flight offerings from ATL, with 18 peak-day departures beginning in April 2026. The airline will continue to serve a range of popular U.S. and Caribbean destinations, ensuring that travelers can take advantage of even more frequent and convenient options. For example, Spirit will resume its nonstop service from Atlanta to Chicago (ORD) and Philadelphia (PHL) while increasing its flights between Atlanta and Orlando (MCO) to three times daily. These changes reflect Spirit’s commitment to making air travel more accessible and affordable for travelers in Georgia and beyond.

Spirit Airlines’ expanded route network from ATL will include the following routes:

• Chicago (ORD): 1-2x daily (resumption of service)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW): Daily service
• Detroit (DTW): 2x daily service
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL): 5x daily service
• Houston (IAH): 11x weekly service
• Miami (MIA): Daily service
• Newark (EWR): 2x daily service
• Orlando (MCO): Increased frequency to 3x daily
• Philadelphia (PHL): Daily service (resumption of service)
• San Juan (SJU): Daily service

With these expanded offerings, Spirit continues to build on its long-standing commitment to providing affordable travel options for its passengers, especially as it celebrates its enduring presence in Atlanta.

Spirit Airlines has garnered several accolades over the years, with 2025 being no exception. It was named Best Airline Overall for the year, a testament to the airline’s success in meeting customer expectations. Spirit also claimed top honors for safety and affordability for the second consecutive year, according to WalletHub. Additionally, the airline earned a strong ranking for on-time performance, landing third among the 10 largest North American carriers in 2025, based on data from Cirium. Spirit’s service quality was also recognized by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), which awarded the airline a 2025 Four Star Low-Cost Carrier rating.

USA Today also recognized Spirit in its 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for its Best Frequent Flyer Program and Best Airline Credit Card. These recognitions underline Spirit’s continued growth and commitment to providing great value to its customers.

Spirit’s dedication to safety is reflected in its ongoing efforts to maintain high operational standards. The airline received the FAA’s Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence for the seventh consecutive year, further cementing its reputation for quality and dependability.

As Spirit Airlines celebrates its 20th anniversary at ATL, it continues to offer travelers affordable options to explore an ever-expanding range of destinations, while maintaining a high standard of service and operational excellence. Whether heading to a favorite domestic destination or planning an exciting Caribbean getaway, Spirit Airlines ensures that passengers have access to competitive prices, a broad selection of routes, and a seamless travel experience.

In short, Spirit Airlines’ anniversary celebrations are more than just a recognition of two decades of successful service at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport; they are a symbol of the airline’s ongoing commitment to making air travel accessible, affordable, and efficient for all passengers.

For those looking to take advantage of the 20% off anniversary offer, the time to act is now—book your Spirit Airlines flight by February 18, 2026, to secure this fantastic deal and enjoy a summer of travel adventures.

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airBaltic Welcomes New Airbus A220-300, Strengthening Fleet for Expanding Network and Enhanced Passenger Experience

airBaltic strengthens its fleet with a new Airbus A220-300, enhancing its network capacity and passenger comfort, while continuing to lead in efficiency and connectivity.

On 15 February 2026, airBaltic took delivery of its latest Airbus A220-300, registered YL-BTD, marking another milestone in the airline’s expansion and fleet modernization. This new addition brings airBaltic’s fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft to a total of 54, solidifying the carrier’s commitment to providing passengers with a superior flying experience while enhancing the airline’s operational efficiency across a growing network of routes.

The newly delivered Airbus A220-300 strengthens airBaltic’s capacity to serve both existing routes and new destinations, improving connectivity to major cities across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. This versatile aircraft plays a crucial role in airBaltic’s operations, not only by directly serving the airline’s route network but also by supporting the carrier’s ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) partnerships across European markets. The ACMI model allows airBaltic to offer flexible capacity, adjusting to varying seasonal demand and maximizing the operational use of its fleet.

Since the airline first introduced the Airbus A220-300 into its fleet in 2016, airBaltic has carried over 24 million passengers on these aircraft, completed approximately 250,000 flights, and logged more than 551,000 flight hours. These statistics demonstrate the aircraft’s remarkable ability to serve a variety of routes efficiently, both short and long haul, while maintaining operational reliability and flexibility. The Airbus A220-300 has become a cornerstone of airBaltic’s growth strategy, enabling the airline to meet increasing passenger demand and expand its international presence.

The latest A220-300 aircraft enhances the passenger experience with its modern design and comfort features. The aircraft boasts wider seats, larger windows, and increased overhead storage space, ensuring a more comfortable journey. These features, combined with a quieter cabin environment, contribute to a superior in-flight experience. Additionally, the Airbus A220-300 is known for its environmentally friendly performance, significantly reducing noise levels and CO₂ and NOx emissions compared to older aircraft, helping airBaltic reduce its environmental footprint while providing efficient service to its customers.

In a continued effort to enhance passenger connectivity, airBaltic has made headlines with its introduction of free high-speed SpaceX Starlink internet onboard. In 2025, airBaltic became the first European airline to offer this advanced internet technology, ensuring that passengers can stay connected from the moment they board until they land. With over 20 aircraft currently equipped with Starlink, and more installations underway, the airline is committed to providing seamless connectivity for travelers, allowing them to remain online throughout their entire journey.

airBaltic’s growth over the past three decades is a testament to its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global connectivity. The airline now connects the Baltic States to over 80 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus, playing a vital role in supporting regional tourism, business, and international travel. With the addition of the newest Airbus A220-300, airBaltic continues to strengthen its position as a leading carrier in the region, offering world-class service, expanding its network, and remaining dedicated to providing passengers with the best possible travel experience.

airBaltic, the leading airline in the Baltics and one of Europe’s fastest-growing carriers, was founded in 1995. As a hybrid airline, it combines the benefits of both traditional network and low-cost carriers. Today, airBaltic operates one of Europe’s youngest fleets, with 54 Airbus A220-300 aircraft and a workforce of nearly 3,000 employees. In 2025, the airline made history by becoming the first European carrier to offer free high-speed SpaceX Starlink internet on board.

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Visit Qatar Wraps Up Successful 2026 Brouq Desert Activation with Over 60,000 Attendees and Expanded Experiences

Visit Qatar has officially concluded the 2026 edition of Brouq, its premier desert activation, marking another successful year for one of the country’s most cherished winter events. Running for 77 days, from December 2025 until 10 February 2026, Brouq attracted a remarkable 61,121 attendees, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination for both residents and visitors alike. This year’s event was a blend of adventure, cultural experiences, and live entertainment, providing a dynamic showcase of Qatar’s desert landscape.

A Richly Diverse Programme

Set against the backdrop of Qatar’s stunning desert, Brouq offered an eclectic mix of experiences, making it an irresistible draw for visitors of all ages. The Desert Escape Zone became one of the event’s most iconic attractions, with the addition of several exciting new features. Among these was the towering 25-meter Adventure Tower, designed to thrill those with a sense of adventure. This area also included a zipline experience, offering visitors an adrenaline rush as they soared over the desert, taking in the sprawling vistas below. Alongside these high-energy experiences, the zone featured open-air dining areas where guests could savor local delicacies while enjoying the entertainment.

For those looking to relax and immerse themselves in the culture, the Film City zone provided an unforgettable experience. Here, attendees had the opportunity to engage in a variety of cultural activities, such as falcon photo opportunities, henna art, and traditional musical performances. The storytelling sessions, held at various points throughout the site, captivated audiences, weaving tales of Qatar’s rich history and traditions.

Family-Friendly Activities Galore

Brouq 2026 placed a strong emphasis on family engagement, ensuring that younger visitors had just as much fun as the adults. Across the activation, a total of 539 activities and workshops were organized, with many specifically designed for children. The lineup included puppet shows, face painting, caricature classes, and much more, making Brouq a family-friendly destination that encouraged repeat visitation. The event’s appeal to families is expected to strengthen Qatar’s reputation as a destination for year-round tourism, offering both adventure and cultural immersion in a single package.

New Features and Expansions

The 2026 edition of Brouq introduced several fresh activation areas, enhancing the overall visitor experience and providing even more ways to engage with the desert landscape. Among these new areas was the Sunset Lounge, which offered a peaceful retreat where guests could unwind as the sun set over the desert horizon. The Brouq Wildlife Reserve, another exciting addition, gave visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the desert environment, with an emphasis on local wildlife.

Additionally, the Mini Safari Cars provided a fun and interactive way for families to explore the vast desert. These small vehicles offered a safe and exciting adventure through the dunes, perfect for young explorers looking to experience the desert in a new way. The Family Majlis was another welcomed feature, where families could gather and relax in a traditional setting, enjoying the camaraderie and comfort of a local cultural space.

Food, Shopping, and Entertainment

No outdoor event is complete without a diverse range of food, shopping, and entertainment options, and Brouq delivered on all fronts. With 24 food and beverage vendors, alongside retail outlets offering a selection of local crafts and goods, visitors were able to enjoy a full desert experience. Whether indulging in traditional Qatari dishes or browsing local handicrafts, Brouq ensured that attendees could enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Qatar.

The activation was also supported by continuous live performances, keeping the atmosphere vibrant throughout the event. Music, dance, and theatrical acts were a constant presence, with performances designed to reflect Qatar’s diverse cultural heritage while providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Strong Focus on Domestic Tourism

Visit Qatar’s commitment to fostering domestic tourism was evident throughout the Brouq event. By offering an array of experiences that cater to both local residents and international visitors, Brouq has become an integral part of Qatar’s year-round events calendar. As one of the country’s most popular outdoor attractions during the winter months, Brouq continues to play a pivotal role in encouraging repeat visitation to Qatar’s diverse destinations.

With each passing year, Brouq evolves to meet the needs and expectations of its audience, ensuring that visitors are consistently offered new and exciting experiences. As Qatar continues to invest in and develop high-quality tourism activations, Brouq stands as a shining example of how the country is making its mark as a top-tier destination for cultural and adventure tourism.

Conclusion

Brouq 2026 has set a new benchmark for outdoor events in Qatar, with record attendance, engaging activities, and cultural richness that appealed to visitors of all ages. By blending adventure, cultural heritage, and family-friendly entertainment, Brouq remains one of Qatar’s most beloved winter activations, offering a unique and unforgettable desert experience for all who attend.

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Thailand and Malaysia Rank as Top Visa-Free Destinations for Indian Travelers in 2026, Leading Over the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Maldives – Everything You Need to Know

Thailand and Malaysia emerge as the top visa-free destinations for Indian travelers in 2026, surpassing the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, according to Agoda’s latest accommodation search data.

According to the latest accommodation search data from the digital travel platform Agoda, Thailand and Malaysia have emerged as the most preferred visa-free international destinations among Indian travelers for 2026. This trend reflects a growing interest in destinations offering easy entry requirements combined with an array of leisure and cultural experiences. Indonesia, while still a favorite, continues to lead as the top destination for visa-on-arrival (VOA) travelers, reinforcing the appeal of hassle-free travel for Indians seeking diverse international experiences.

Agoda’s analysis of accommodation search data from Indian users between January 1 and January 18, 2026, for check-in dates scheduled between February and March 2026, reveals a marked shift towards destinations across Asia that combine accessibility and rich cultural offerings.

Top Destinations with Visa-Free and VOA Status

Thailand, with its visa-free entry for Indian travelers, clinched the top spot as the most searched destination. Known for its vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and diverse adventures, Thailand continues to be a favorite among Indians seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration. Close behind is Indonesia, a VOA destination, which remains the go-to location for travelers looking for an adventure-packed getaway, especially for its world-renowned beaches, jungles, and rich cultural history.

Malaysia and Sri Lanka Rise in Popularity

Malaysia, also offering visa-free entry to Indian passport holders, ranks third in Agoda’s analysis, appealing to travelers seeking both urban experiences and natural beauty. The country’s vibrant cities, complemented by lush rainforests and iconic islands, make it a compelling choice for those looking for a blend of modernity and nature.

Sri Lanka, a destination that offers visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals, recorded the highest year-on-year growth in accommodation searches, with a 61% increase compared to the previous year. This surge is driven by its proximity to India, affordability, and diverse offerings ranging from beaches to cultural landmarks and wildlife. Sri Lanka’s mix of natural beauty and historical significance continues to resonate with travelers looking for both relaxation and adventure.

Maldives and Philippines Show Continued Appeal

The Maldives, which allows visa-free access, continues to captivate Indian travelers in search of short-haul luxury escapes. Its luxurious resorts, crystal-clear waters, and exclusive island experiences make it a favorite for those seeking premium holidays.

The Philippines, another visa-free destination, ranks sixth in the list, with accommodation searches increasing by 73% year-on-year. Popular among beach lovers and adventure seekers, the country’s pristine beaches, water sports, and vibrant marine life remain key attractions for Indian travelers. Its diversity of islands, each with its unique charm, makes the Philippines an ideal vacation destination.

Other Rising Destinations: Nepal, Bhutan, and Laos

Nepal, with its visa-free status, ranks seventh in the list. The country’s scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and trekking opportunities continue to draw travelers, especially those interested in spiritual exploration and nature treks.

Kazakhstan, a new entrant on the list, ranks eighth and is gaining traction for its unique Central Asian landscapes. The country’s natural beauty and emerging tourism infrastructure are drawing attention from Indian travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Bhutan, which offers visa-free access to Indian citizens, ranks ninth and remains a top choice for those seeking wellness retreats and cultural immersion. Its serene environment and Buddhist heritage continue to attract those looking for a tranquil escape.

Lastly, Laos, a VOA destination, ranks tenth with the highest search growth among all destinations in the list, witnessing a remarkable 97% increase compared to last year. Known for its ancient temples, charming towns, and cultural richness, Laos is positioning itself as an up-and-coming destination in Southeast Asia. Simplified visa access and increasing awareness among Indian travelers are contributing factors to this surge in interest.

The Changing Landscape of Indian Travel Preferences

As Indian travelers continue to prioritize convenience and value for money, destinations that offer easy entry requirements, diverse experiences, and affordability are seeing the highest demand. With the growing awareness of Southeast Asia and Central Asia as prime travel regions, Indian travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer both cultural depth and recreational opportunities.

Agoda’s data indicates a marked shift towards short-haul international travel, with Indians opting for destinations that provide quick, visa-free access and a mix of relaxation and adventure. The rise in interest toward destinations like Laos, Bhutan, and Kazakhstan reflects a growing appetite for new, culturally rich locations that offer a different kind of travel experience.

Explore a Wide Range of Travel Options on Agoda

Travelers planning their next getaway can explore Agoda’s extensive offerings, which include over 6 million holiday properties, 130,000+ flight routes, and 300,000+ activities across the globe. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort in the Maldives or a cultural escape to Sri Lanka, Agoda provides deals that make booking your dream vacation easier than ever. For the latest travel deals, visit the Agoda app or head to agoda.com/deals.

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