Flight Buzz
Travel Law Updates: EU, Australia, Brazil and Asia Pacific
These practices were facilitated by Delivery Hero’s minority shareholding in Glovo, which created a channel for coordination and later culminated in full ownership in July 2022. The EU Commission found that this relationship enabled sustained collusion, reducing consumer choice, limiting employment mobility and undermining innovation in a fast-growing digital sector.
Both companies acknowledged their involvement and opted to settle the case, receiving a 10% reduction in fines. The Commission highlighted this decision as a landmark case:
- the first cartel finding in the EU’s labour market context; and
- the first time a company was fined for using a minority shareholding to facilitate anti-competitive conduct.
The EU Commission noted that it will ensure fair competition in digital markets and warned that similar scrutiny may follow in other sectors where platform dominance and cross-ownership raise competition concerns.
Please here see for further details.
In June the French competition authority adopted a decision imposing fines on Alten, Expleo, Bertrandt and Ausy for mutual agreements not to hire each other’s employees. This is likely to impact crew and key employee employment terms and poaching practices. Please see further details.
On the radar
The Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council has submitted to the EU Parliament a proposal to reform EU Regulation 261/2004. This regulation governs compensation for delayed and cancelled flights and the key proposed changes include:
- revised mandatory compensation for delayed flights;
- 14-day payment period for compensation;
- reimbursement of up to 400% for rerouted flights;
- a definition of ‘exceptional circumstances’; and
- tarmac delays expressly included in the scope of the regulation.
The EU Parliament will now consider the proposed reforms and has the power to accept, reject or amend them.
Japan
In July 2025, Japanese police arrested a 28-year-old man on charges of fraudulent obstruction of business and intent to harass. He is alleged to have made 580 reservations at a hotel near Haneda Airport using several false names. This included making 258 bookings in a single night from a computer at his then employer. This has resulted in losses for the hotel of JPY17m (approximately US$113,787). This appears to be related to issues which arose during a stay at the hotel in November. The hotel, which has not been publicly identified, does not appear to require a credit card for bookings. While this is not unusual in the Japanese domestic hotel sector, requiring a credit card would have made it more difficult for this individual to make these bookings without the prospect of being charged for the bookings or at least a no-show fee. It is also likely that the credit card issuer would have suspended the card for suspected fraud where 258 bookings were made at the same hotel in one night.
What to watch
This is a timely reminder that online platforms should be vigilant for fraud and misuse in all markets and to ensure that their fraud detection systems could identify these transactions and suspend or cancel them as quickly as possible.
Thailand
Passenger rights for delayed and cancelled flights now in force.
On 20 May 2025, the Thai Civil Aviation Authority (“CAAT”) Regulation 101 came into force and provides passengers with rights in relation to delayed and cancelled flights and in respect of downgrades, upgrades and tarmac delays. These follow a similar structure to the compensation available in the European Union under EC Regulation No. 261/2004. The CAAT introduced these regulations to ensure passengers on international flights have rights where their flights are delayed or cancelled. This was prompted, in part, by complaints from passengers on delayed and cancelled international flights departing Thailand. Thailand had existing regulations for passenger rights and compensation for delayed and cancelled flights, but this only applied to domestic flights. Regulation 101 increases compensation for domestic flights under this existing regime. A key aspect of payment of compensation for cancelled or delayed flights is that compensation must be paid in cash immediately in case of domestic flights, and within 14 days of the affected flight in case of international flights. Where a passenger has booked and paid for the flight on a third-party platform, such as an online travel agent (“OTA”), the airline may not have the passenger’s payment details and must then be requested from the passenger. Passengers can also agree to be paid in the form of a credit or voucher for future travel, frequent flyer miles and other non-cash compensation. Whilst this should be dealt with between the airline and affected passengers, OTAs and other intermediaries should be prepared to receive and respond to claims from affected passengers for compensation and attempts by passengers to seek to book flights on that airline through an OTA platform using airline credits or vouchers.
On the radar
Regulation 101 requires airlines to have in place arrangements for hotels and meals for affected passengers by May 2024 rather than allowing airlines to deal with the need for accommodation as and when this becomes necessary. Airlines and airport hotels who have agreed terms and rates in May 2024 for passengers on delayed and cancelled flights will need to address changes in rates and availability as and when airlines require accommodation for affected passengers, particularly where the affected flight is several months after these rates were agreed. A key issue may be whether unavailability of rooms would constitute a breach of such agreements.
On 5 July, Thailand issued the Notification of the Electronic Transactions Commission on Measures to Prevent Technological Crimes for Social Media Service Providers. This requires social media platforms to remove false or falsified content which could result in a cybercrime within 24 hours of notice to do so from the Prevention and Suppression Division of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. The power of government agencies to do so results from an April 2025 amendment to the Cybercrime Prevention and Suppression Measures Emergency Decree 2023.
MONTREAL — The union representing around 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants could signal its intent to strike if a deal isn’t reached by the end of today.
The earliest that flight attendants could potentially walk off the job is Saturday at 12:01 a.m. ET.
Since the union must provide 72-hours notice if it plans to strike, that means it could declare its plans for a work stoppage by Wednesday at 12:01 a.m. ET.
Air Canada said yesterday it “remains at the bargaining table and is focused on achieving a negotiated settlement” without any disruption to travel.
Flights are continuing to operate as scheduled, but the airline says that if there are disruptions, it will notify customers via email and text message in advance of their travel.
For passengers whose itineraries change mid-journey, Air Canada says it will explore all options to keep them travelling, including rebooking with other airlines.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 12, 2025.
Flight Buzz
India and Thailand Strengthen Travel Ties with Akasa Air’s New Daily Non-Stop Flights from Mumbai to Phuket Starting This September
Published on
August 12, 2025 |
Akasa Air will be enhancing the travel bonds between India and Thailand with the introduction of its third daily non-stop flights from Mumbai to Phuket, starting 20 September. The new service provides a direct and non-stop travel option for Indian travellers from India to the idyllic island of Phuket, which is rich in natural beauty with magnificent beaches and abundant natural resources. These flights are a step towards further strengthening the network between India and Southeast Asia ensuring greater convenience when traveling for both business and leisure passengers travelling between these two countries- one of the most in demand aviation markets.
Akasa Air, one of the newest low-cost carriers in India, is expanding its international network starting December with daily direct flights to Phuket from Mumbai. Non-stop direct flights between the two popular destinations will be available to customers of the airline from September 20th, 2025. For Akasa, this route is an important development as the airline ventures to Southeast Asia, its sixth international destination.
Bookings for the new service are now live through airline’s website, mobile apps and from all major Online Travel Agencies. Initially, the service will cater for leisure and business travelers; it should provide greater flexibility and convenience in Thailand since Phuket is ideal place to visit or connect through for a holiday while passengers can return home faster and more convenient if come to Thailand on a business trip.
Why Phuket?
Phuket, the biggest island in Thailand, is a renowned international destination, celebrated for its stunning coastlines, lively entertainment scene, and deep-rooted cultural heritage. The island has long been a favorite among travelers from India, and its popularity continues to grow as more Indian tourists seek affordable and convenient ways to explore Southeast Asia.
Phuket’s status as a popular tourist and trade center, combined with its established connections to other major Southeast Asian and global destinations, makes it an ideal addition to Akasa Air’s expanding network. As part of its strategy to offer affordable connectivity, the airline is leveraging this strong demand by providing direct, non-stop flights, which are expected to cater to the growing market of Indian travelers seeking affordable holiday options in Thailand.
Flight Details and Schedule
Akasa Air will offer daily non-stop flights from Mumbai (BOM) to Phuket (HKT), featuring two convenient departure times for added flexibility. The airline’s flights will offer both morning and evening options for travelers, ensuring a flexible schedule for both outbound and inbound journeys.
The detailed flight schedule is as follows:
| Flight Number | From | Departure Time | To | Arrival Time | Operating Days | Type | Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QP 0618 | Mumbai | 07:45 hrs | Phuket | 14:35 hrs | Daily | Non-stop | 20 September 2025 |
| QP 0619 | Phuket | 15:35 hrs | Mumbai | 19:15 hrs | Daily | Non-stop | 20 September 2025 |
As shown in the table above, Flight QP 0618 departs Mumbai at 07:45 AM and arrives in Phuket at 14:35 PM (local time). The return flight, Flight QP 0619, departs from Phuket at 15:35 PM and lands in Mumbai at 19:15 PM. The daily, non-stop service offers travelers the flexibility to plan their trips according to their schedules.
Akasa Air’s Continued Expansion
Akasa Air, which began its international operations in 2024, has quickly expanded its reach beyond India’s borders. The airline’s first international routes were launched to destinations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait. With the introduction of the Phuket route, Akasa is now reaching further into Southeast Asia, signaling its growing commitment to providing affordable, high-quality connectivity for Indian travelers.
This new route is especially significant as it marks Akasa’s first international service to Southeast Asia, highlighting the airline’s ambitions to expand its global network and cater to an increasing demand for affordable international flights. The airline has demonstrated consistent growth by adding international routes while maintaining a focus on offering budget-friendly travel options.
What This Means for Travelers
For Indian travelers, Akasa Air’s new Mumbai to Phuket flights offer a direct, affordable route to one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after vacation spots. Whether travelers are looking to relax on the island’s stunning beaches, explore its vibrant nightlife, or immerse themselves in its cultural offerings, the new Akasa Air service will make the journey easier and more accessible than ever.
Moreover, Akasa Air’s commitment to maintaining competitive pricing ensures that these flights remain affordable for a broad spectrum of travelers. By connecting India to a growing array of international destinations, the airline is helping to meet the increasing demand for international travel options while promoting tourism in both India and Southeast Asia.
With both morning and evening flight options, travelers can select a time that best suits their schedules, offering greater flexibility for business trips, vacations, or connecting flights to other destinations in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Akasa’s Growing International Network
Phuket marks the sixth international destination for Akasa Air, further solidifying the airline’s position in the international aviation market. Currently, Akasa Air operates flights to Doha (Qatar), Jeddah and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kuwait City (Kuwait), and now Phuket (Thailand).
The airline’s rapid expansion into these diverse regions demonstrates its commitment to connecting Indian travelers with key international destinations. This growth is in line with Akasa Air’s strategic vision of offering affordable international connectivity for the Indian market, thereby contributing to the increase in international tourism and trade links for India.
The airline’s ability to offer such connectivity comes in part from its innovative approach to budget air travel, which includes modern aircraft, efficient operations, and a focus on customer satisfaction. As a result, Akasa Air has been able to successfully capture the attention of price-conscious travelers without compromising on quality or service.
The Future of Akasa Air’s International Growth
As Akasa Air broadens its global network, it is strategically positioned to meet the increasing demand for travel between India and Southeast Asia. The addition of Phuket to its network is only the beginning, as Akasa Air has already hinted at further international destinations in the near future.
For now, the airline is focusing on strengthening its presence in key regions while continuing to offer affordable, non-stop services to its growing list of destinations. With its commitment to maintaining budget-friendly fares and expanding its network, Akasa Air is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of affordable air travel for Indian and international travelers alike.
Key Takeaways
- Akasa Air will begin operating daily non-stop flights from Mumbai to Phuket, starting on September 20 of this year.
- The new service marks Akasa’s entry into Southeast Asia, expanding its international network to six destinations.
- Phuket, a popular destination for Indian travelers, is now easily accessible via Akasa Air’s non-stop flights.
- The airline is committed to providing affordable connectivity for both leisure and business travelers, maintaining its competitive pricing and service standards.
- Bookings for the new route are available through Akasa’s official website, mobile apps, and major online travel agencies.
As Akasa Air continues to expand, it is clear that the airline’s focus on connecting Indian travelers to key international hubs, coupled with its commitment to affordability, will make it a significant player in the aviation market. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday or a business trip to Phuket, Akasa Air’s new service offers a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers.
Akasa Air is announcing the launch of daily non-stop connections from Mumbai to Phuket on September 20 th, thereby strengthening the travel and economic ties between India and Thailand. Akasa Air is introducing this service to meet the expanding direct, low-cost flight requirements between India and Southeast Asia, which will significantly improve the convenience of travel to Phuket for both business and leisure.
The commencement of Mumbai to Phuket flights serves as a major development in Akasa Air’s international expansion. Intended to gradually increase over time, this will result in up to 17 direct flights per week before the introduction of daily flights from September 20th of 2025 providing travelers insight on how they can now visit Thailand´s top island destination cheaply and quickly. With the airline expanding its global reach, travelers can look forward to even more cheap and cheerful fun exploring worldwide destinations.
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