JetBlue continues to offer versatility and value to its TrueBlue^® members through expanded redemption partners

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (Nasdaq: JBLU) today announced the expansion of its partnership with Japan Airlines to include TrueBlue point redemptions. TrueBlue members can now use their points to book qualifying Japan Airlines-operated flights directly on jetblue.com. This milestone marks the first time JetBlue’s TrueBlue members can redeem points for travel with an airline partner in East Asia.

“We’re excited to expand the TrueBlue experience by growing our network of trusted airline partners, giving our members even more ways to redeem points,” said Edward Pouthier, vice president of loyalty and personalization, JetBlue. “With Japan Airlines redemption options, we’re opening the door to more destinations for our customers to travel where they want, how they want.”

This new redemption opportunity enhances JetBlue’s commitment to delivering more value and flexibility to its customers. With access to Japan Airlines’ renowned service and premium cabins, TrueBlue members can now explore a range of destinations across Japan and East Asia—including Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa, and Hokkaido—using their points. Whether traveling for a vacation or to visit family and friends, members have more rewarding ways to experience international travel with comfort and ease.

“We’re delighted to announce our newest mileage partnership with JetBlue, a leading carrier based in New York,” said Yasushi Omori, executive officer, senior vice president of mileage and lifestyle business, Japan Airlines. “This partnership will enable JAL to enhance its network beyond New York and Boston, where direct flights from Japan are available.”

The partnership will also allow JAL Mileage Bank members to redeem their miles for select flights across JetBlue’s network, including those to Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and cities along the U.S. East Coast.

For more information on this partnership visit jetblue.com/airline-partners/japan-airlines

NEW YORK — American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are streamlining the connecting traveler’s journey at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as Alaska and Hawaiian officially move their operations to Terminal 8 in 2025.

The strategic move starts today with Hawaiian kicking off operations of its daily flight from JFK to Honolulu (HNL) out of Terminal 8. Both Alaska and Hawaiian expect to fully move their operations to Terminal 8 by October, including moving their gates, ticket counters and other guest services. With the addition of Alaska, Terminal 8 will be home to 10 oneworld^® carriers.

“We are thrilled to welcome our West Coast International Alliance and oneworld^® partner, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines to Terminal 8,” said Amanda Zhang, American’s Vice President of Corporate Real Estate. “We continue to invest in JFK to enhance the travel experience for our customers and those of our partners like Alaska and Hawaiian, especially as we make progress on the redesign and expansion of the T8 concessions program, bringing new shops and restaurant options for customers to enjoy.”

Customers should expect an enhanced travel experience with seamless connections, access to world-class lounges and will soon enjoy the more than 60 new shopping and restaurant offerings coming to the terminal as part of the $125 million commercial redevelopment program underway, which is being led by American, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports.

“The new long-term lease at Terminal 8 and our resulting move strengthen our commitment to enhancing the guest experience, improving employee spaces and driving better economic outcomes for our JFK operation,” said Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet, revenue products and real estate at Alaska Airlines. “Terminal 8 is home to American Airlines — our long-standing oneworld^® partner — and this move demonstrates our shared commitment to delivering seamless connectivity for our guests. After two years of thoughtful evaluation, we’re excited to be closer to American and other global partners to better serve guests.”

In addition to easier connections, both Alaska and Hawaiian First Class customers traveling out of JFK on flights longer than 2,000 miles will now enjoy access to the American Airlines Admirals Club lounge. And customers on flights that are more than 2,000 miles who are traveling in a premium cabin that includes a lie-flat product will have access to American’s premium Greenwich Lounge, which features elevated dining, a wine table and luxurious atmosphere.

Living Green members supported environmental conservation efforts by clearing trails and marking delineations at Joshua Tree National Park earlier this year.

American Airlines is proud to renew its partnership with the National Park Foundation (NPF), reinforcing its dedication to preserving America’s national parks and encouraging exploration of the country’s iconic natural wonders, historic sites and cultural treasures.

As NPF’s first official airline partner, American helps connect travelers with the beauty and history of America’s parks.

American’s Living Green Employee Business Resource Group (EBRG), formed in 2012, is another key part of the airline’s sustainability efforts. With nearly 1,900 team members across 10 global chapters, Living Green focuses on reducing environmental impact and supporting conservation initiatives at American.

In recent years, members have volunteered at Mount Rainier, Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Teton and Joshua Tree National Parks, along with participating in events like the Annual Pullman National Monument Clean-Up and launching recycle and reuse events across our stations.

In celebration of Earth Month, American invites AAdvantage^® members to donate miles to Miles for Our Planet, with all donations directed to the National Park Foundation throughout April. This initiative supports the preservation of national parks and inspires future generations to connect with these iconic landscapes.

American Airlines offers more than 500 flights to national parks across the U.S., from Joshua Tree to the Grand Canyon to Glacier National Park. Ready to explore? Check out our Flights to National Parks for more information.

Investment, led by Prysm Capital, moves the category creator’s flagship EL9 Ultra Short into pre-production and certification, opens the door to Direct Aviation, and supports growing demand from commercial and defense markets

MANASSAS, Va., April 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) today announced it has secured $115 million in Series B funding to enter the pre-production and certification phase of the EL9, the first-ever Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in 150 feet – roughly 10% of the footprint required for similarly-sized legacy airplanes.

The round was led by Prysm Capital, and Jay Park, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Prysm, has joined Electra’s Board of Directors. 

Electra has over 2,200 pre-orders for the EL9 Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in 150 feet.Post this

“We are delighted to welcome Jay and Prysm to the Electra family,” said Electra Board Chair John Langford. “They’ve already become an indispensable partner and advisor as we transition from prototype to product with the EL9.”

By integrating blown lift technology with hybrid-electric propulsion, Electra’s 9-passenger EL9 Ultra Short offers a range of transformative dual-use capabilities. It operates with the landing and takeoff versatility of a helicopter, the quiet of an electric vehicle, and the cost advantage and safety of a fixed-wing, fixed-propeller aircraft. With the EL9, commercial operators can connect communities that lack traditional aviation infrastructure, fly into airports with strict noise restrictions, create new opportunities and business models for cargo services, and save travelers significant time.

For defense operators, the EL9 introduces novel logistics and troop transport capabilities, including the ability to take off and land with a low signature in helicopter-sized spaces in remote, austere areas and providing mobile power capabilities while building on the safety, cost, and range advantages of a fixed-wing aircraft.

Electra has secured more than 2,200 pre-orders valued at over $10 billion for the EL9 – marking one of the largest provisional order pipelines in the commercial Advanced Air Mobility sector. Additionally, Electra has won over 20 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and NASA, and is currently performing on a Strategic Funding Increase contract with the U.S. Air Force to develop the EL9 for military use cases.

“At Electra, we are on a mission to deliver a new era of aviation, a leap forward in advanced air mobility that is both transformational and practical,” said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. “The EL9 Ultra Short opens the door to opportunities to establish new commercial routes, connect communities currently lacking aviation infrastructure, and enable entirely novel logistics capabilities for warfighters. We look forward to working with our partners at Prysm to continue the development of this aircraft and chart a new course for aviation.”

The EL9 delivers up to 3,000 pounds of payload and a range of up to 1,100 nautical miles, with in-flight battery recharging that eliminates the need for ground charging stations. The ability to operate from compact spaces and unimproved surfaces such as grass fields, parking lots, and repurposed heliports opens new routes and economic opportunities, making regional air mobility for passengers and cargo more affordable and accessible than ever before.

“Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short is a game-changing aircraft that unlocks important new capabilities for commercial and defense users,” said Jay Park. “The EL9 is the flagship of Electra’s future family of aircraft that will transform aviation with hybrid-electric technology. We are excited to partner with Marc, John and the team in their commitment to innovating and expanding air mobility solutions.”

Lockheed Martin Ventures, Honeywell, and Safran are among Electra’s strategic investors along with Prysm Capital, Statkraft Ventures, the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC), and other private investors. 

Electra has grown to roughly 80 employees and established its position as the first mover and category creator in Ultra Short aviation.

About Electra
Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) is an advanced aerospace company building hybrid-electric Ultra Short aircraft that achieve never-before performance advantages to fly people and cargo seamlessly without airports, emissions, or noise. With the Ultra Short, Electra is pioneering Direct Aviation, the next level of connectivity that brings air travel closer to where we live, work, and play. Electra’s Ultra Short technology delivers 2.5X the payload and 10X longer range with 70% lower operating costs than helicopters and eVTOLs with significantly greater safety and far less certification risk.

Electra’s team includes some of the most respected and successful entrepreneurs and engineers in novel aircraft design, with over 40 prior aircraft successfully developed and/or certified. Electra’s contracted customers include NASA, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy, along with over 2,200 aircraft under Letters of Intent from 50+ commercial customers, including both airlines and helicopter operators.

Royal Air Maroc Cargo, the cargo division of Morocco’s flagship carrier, has unveiled an ambitious vision for the future, underscoring a bold strategy built on global expansion, digital innovation, sustainability, and deep community engagement. At the heart of this transformation is the airline’s fleet modernization, driven by the introduction of the new generation widebody aircrafts that embody the airline’s commitment to safety, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

This year, Royal Air Maroc Cargo is focused on extending its footprint across Africa while targeting emerging opportunities in Asia and the Americas. With a global network of 82 destinations—including key hubs in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Europe, and the Middle East—the airline is uniquely positioned to connect high-growth markets with efficiency and agility.

The PAX widebody fleet play a pivotal role in this strategy, offering a larger network and increased range, fuel efficiency, and cargo capacity. These next-generation aircraft not only enhance Royal Air Maroc’s long-haul capabilities but also align with the airline’s vision for a lower-carbon, sustainable future. Alongside 30 narrowbodies and a dedicated B767 freighter, the widebody fleet strengthens the carrier’s ability to move both bulk and palletized cargo with exceptional flexibility.

“Our vision is to expand Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s global network, connect emerging and established markets, and strengthen Morocco’s position as a trade and logistics hub,” said Yassine Berrada, Vice-President Cargo at Royal Air Maroc. “With the introduction of the new generation widebodies, we are not only increasing our operational capacity but also reducing our environmental impact—helping us build a future that is innovative, responsible, and customer-focused.”

Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s Casablanca hub remains a central pillar in this vision, serving as a strategic transit point between continents. The hub is equipped with a state-of-the-art cargo terminal offering 200,000 tons of annual capacity and specialized areas for sensitive shipments, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value goods.

The airline continues to elevate its customer service through partnerships with digital platforms like cargo.one and Cargo.AI, ensuring 24/7 access to booking, scheduling, and real-time availability. Future enhancements include real-time tracking, automated documentation, and seamless digital communications, offering clients a transparent and streamlined experience from start to finish.

Sustainability is embedded in every facet of Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s operations. In addition to operating a fuel-efficient fleet, the airline supports IATA’s Eco Hub initiatives, has implemented solar photovoltaic systems at its facilities, and adopted biodegradable wrapping to minimize waste. The airline also plays a critical humanitarian role, delivering medical supplies and vaccines across the continent in partnership with AIRLINK and other global first aid organizations.

Looking ahead, Royal Air Maroc Cargo is charting a course defined by growth, innovation, and global connectivity. With its advanced fleet, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, growth, and service excellence, the company is poised to lead the next chapter in African and global cargo logistics.

Scandinavian Airlines is unveiling Flavors by SAS, a new Food & Beverage concept designed to offer passengers a more varied, globally inspired culinary offering. Launching October 1, 2025, Flavors by SAS will debut alongside the new European Business Class and later expand to lounges and intercontinental flights. 

Building on the foundation of the New Nordic by SAS concept launched in 2017, Flavors by SAS represents the next step in the evolution of onboard dining. While New Nordic highlighted Scandinavian specialties with a modern twist, Flavors by SAS brings a broader, more global perspective—delivering greater variety, enhanced presentation, and international culinary influences tailored to today’s SAS travelers. 

The current Food and Beverage concept has served passengers for eight years, and as customer preferences evolve, so must SAS’ in-flight dining.  

“While SAS has always been about bringing Scandinavia to the world, this new concept, Flavors by SAS, brings the world to Scandinavia, incorporating bold and diverse flavors inspired by Europe, the U.S., Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean,” says Aron Backström, Vice President Product & Loyalty at SAS. 

SAS is also introducing a new, more flexible dining approach to improve meal variety and adapt service to each flight. The new approach makes it easy to adjust meals based on flight time, service needs, and available space onboard creating a smoother and a more premium dining experience. 

Aron Backström continues, “SAS’ innovative dining approach and rotating menu system sets a new standard in inflight dining, providing a flexible, customer-centric alternative to traditional static menus. This dynamic model positions SAS at the forefront in innovation and adaptability within airline food and beverage service.” 

Key features of the Flavors by SAS-concept: 

• New menus – More globally inspired culinary offerings. 
• Tiered meal service – Various service levels ensure that meal offerings align with flight length and conditions, from a simpler basket service to full tray meals with hot and cold dishes. 
• Flexible dining approach – This allows SAS to mix and match meal components to create unique tray combinations, ensuring variety and freshness.   
• Rolling menu rotations – Meals change frequently, ensuring frequent travelers get to experience new options. 
• Elevated presentation in Business Class – SAS replaces single-use-items with porcelain, a unique double-walled porcelain mug, glass and stainless-steel utensils to elevate the onboard dining experience. 

With the new food offering, SAS is reducing food waste, prioritizing local sourcing whenever possible, and minimizing plastic packaging by increasing the use of compostable and recyclable materials. A key example is the introduction of porcelain tableware—offering a durable, reusable alternative to single-use items. 

Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo and MAB Kargo Sdn Bhd (MASkargo) have announced their intention to launch a Global Cargo Joint Business, which, subject to regulatory approval, will enable the carriers to further enhance existing service level to customers and partners across the global air freight market.

The strategic collaboration will bring together the combined expertise and infrastructure of three leading players in the air cargo industry and is aimed at creating significant customer benefits.

A streamlined product offering, enhanced connectivity, faster transit times, and new routing opportunities across their combined extensive networks will deliver greater value and service flexibility to customers worldwide. In parallel, the parties are jointly working at developing industry-leading harmonized safety and security standards for their customers.

This ground-breaking trilateral partnership will significantly improve the accessibility and efficiency of air freight, enabling customers to expand their global air freight. By combining their resources, Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo and MASkargo plan to build a truly connected, more agile cargo network that will address the evolving needs of global trade and logistics.

Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo said: “Today marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to redefine the global air cargo landscape. This agreement will bring together three strong players to offer unparalleled service and global connectivity, reinforcing our commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence.”

David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer at IAG Cargo said: “This agreement is a testament to our history of bringing businesses together. With years of experience in forging successful collaborations, we understand the real value they bring. This joint business not only unlocks choice and opportunities for our customers but also enhances connectivity for the businesses and industries they serve, further strengthening the role air cargo plays in facilitating global trade.”

Mark Jason Thomas, Chief Executive Officer at MASkargo said: “This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal moment for MASkargo and the air cargo industry. We are excited to partner with Qatar Airways Cargo and IAG Cargo to deliver a new era of value and innovation to our customers. By leveraging our combined strengths and expertise, we will provide enhanced service offerings, expanded global reach, and cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of the global market, ensuring greater efficiency and connectivity for our partners and customers.”

The carriers expect to implement the agreement in the near future, subject to first obtaining the necessary regulatory clearances.

For more information, please visit the official websites of Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo and MASkargo.

• Special Aircraft Livery in Collaboration with Manchester United unveiled
• Brisbane Returns to the Network from November 2025
• Regional Connectivity Strengthened with Additional APAC Flights
• Preview of first ever Lie-Flat Business Class Seat for its narrowbody aircraft

Malaysia Airlines today announced a series of exciting developments aimed at elevating its global presence and connectivity, including the unveiling of its latest co-branded aircraft livery in partnership with Manchester United. The airline also confirmed its return to Brisbane starting from November 2025 alongside increased flight frequencies across its Asia-Pacific network as it seeks to strengthen its global connectivity as the gateway to Asia and beyond.

Malaysia Airlines x Manchester United Co-Branded Livery

The bespoke livery, now featured on the airline’s flagship A330-300, blends the national pride of Malaysia with Manchester United’s global sporting prestige. With dynamic red lines flowing from the Malaysia flag into the club’s iconic red, the design symbolises harmony, strength, and unity between aviation and sports—two forces that inspire and connect people worldwide.

The unveiling was made even more memorable with the presence of Manchester United legends Dimitar Berbatov, Nemanja Vidić, and Luís Nani who joined the celebrations in Malaysia. Fans can look forward to a not-to-be-missed public meet and greet sessions from 18 April – 20 April 2025 at the MAG Arena offering an exciting opportunity to interact with the football greats.

Return to Brisbane and Enhanced Frequencies

Malaysia Airlines also announced its highly anticipated return to Brisbane, reinstating direct flights to Queensland from 29 November 2025, with a promo fare starting from RM 1,999 all-in return for Economy Class and Business Class from RM 8,999 all-in return. This strategic move reaffirms the airline’s commitment to the Australian market, complementing increased frequencies to Sydney and Melbourne to better serve both leisure and business travellers. The airline will also be introducing the all-new A330neo fleet on selected ANZ routes, offering enhanced passenger comfort, fuel efficiency, and cutting-edge cabin features.

Australia remains one of Malaysia Airlines’ key international markets, with growing demand from both inbound and outbound segments. The enhanced capacity will provide greater connectivity, flexibility, and more seamless travel options for passengers across the region. The airline’s presence at the MATTA Fair 2025 will spotlight this commitment, where key partnerships with Australian tourism boards are expected to be formalised over the three-day event.

The airline has also increased flight frequencies across its Asia-Pacific network, with added services to popular cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Surabaya, Phuket, and Trivandrum. This strategic move not only enhances connectivity for both business and leisure travellers but also reinforces Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to meeting growing regional travel demand and strengthening its presence across key markets.

Malaysia Airlines Unveils Lie-Flat Business Class on 737-10

At the same event, Malaysia Airlines previewed its new lie-flat Business Class seats for the Boeing 737-10 — a first for its narrowbody fleet — bringing consistent end to end comfort to regional travel. Passengers can enjoy seamless journeys, such as Trivandrum to Kuala Lumpur on the 737-10 with onward connections to Melbourne on the A330neo, all within a unified, premium cabin experience. With plans to operate 55 Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 aircraft by 2030, this expansion supports the airline’s fleet modernisation and ambition to be a Top 10 global and Top 5 Asian airline.

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “This marks a bold and exciting new chapter for Malaysia Airlines, as we unite the passion of sport, the spirit of innovation, and the pride of our nation. Our partnership with Manchester United embodies shared values of excellence and global ambition, while the resumption of Brisbane flights and expanded regional connectivity reinforce our strategic focus on growth. With the introduction of lie-flat Business Class seats on our new Boeing 737-10 aircraft, we are redefining the travel experience for our guests. As we continue to elevate our offerings, we remain steadfast in our commitment to reimagining travel through the lens of Malaysian Hospitality, guided by our vision to be among the world’s leading airlines.”

Product Enhancements

Malaysia Airlines also announced enhanced attributes across Economy Class fare tiers, giving passengers more choices tailored to their travel needs with Economy Value (formerly Economy Lite), Economy Basic, and Economy Flex, reaffirming its commitment to customer-centric experience. Economy Value includes 7kg cabin baggage, 20kg checked baggage, complimentary meals, a 10% child discount, and booking flexibility for a fee—delivering comfort, convenience, and signature Malaysian hospitality.

To further cater to diverse travel needs, EnrichMoney by Malaysia Airlines is a multi-currency e-wallet and Visa prepaid card, designed to enhance both travel and lifestyle experiences. Its latest feature—Pay with EnrichMoney Points—lets members redeem points instantly via DuitNow QR at participating merchants, making it the first solution of its kind in Malaysia. From 18 April to 31 May 2025, members who use this feature will enjoy up to RM5 off, making it even easier to turn loyalty into everyday value.

Malaysia Airlines’ momentum is further bolstered by strategic trade and industry partnerships with leading organisations such as Google, Atout France, Panorama Group, Student Universe, amongst others—reflecting its forward-looking approach to collaborative growth and digital transformation in the travel sector.

Hamilton, Bermuda – April 21, 2025 — The island of Bermuda and Charleston, South Carolina, are now just a short flight apart, thanks to BermudAir’s newest nonstop service to Charleston International Airport (CHS). This exciting route launch marks the third addition to BermudAir’s U.S. network this month, further cementing the airline’s commitment to offering effortless connections to beloved destinations across the U.S.

The inaugural flight launched on Saturday, April 19, 2025, during the Easter holiday weekend. Flights will operate weekly on Saturdays aboard BermudAir’s 70-seat Embraer E175 jet, with a flight time of approximately two hours.

“We’re so pleased to bring Bermuda and Charleston closer together,” said Adam Scott, Founder & CEO of BermudAir.
“Charleston’s mix of Southern elegance and warm hospitality mirrors our island’s spirit, and we look forward to welcoming travellers from both places—whether for an exciting getaway, a business venture, or to discover the timeless beauty of Bermuda.”

Charleston travellers can now explore Bermuda, an island destination known for its pink-sand beaches, picturesque waters, and world-class hospitality. Likewise, Bermudians now have a direct path to Charleston, where Southern charm meets modern energy, offering everything from gourmet dining and world-class shopping to a thriving arts scene and unmatched coastal lifestyle.

“The launch of BermudAir’s nonstop service between Charleston and Bermuda marks a significant milestone for both regions,” said Elliott Summey, Executive Director and CEO of Charleston International Airport.
“This new route enhances our international connectivity and strengthens economic and cultural ties between the Lowcountry and the island. By facilitating easier travel for tourists and business professionals alike, we anticipate a positive impact on local economies, increased tourism, and enriched cultural exchanges.”

“BermudAir’s inaugural flight is a momentous occasion for the airport, the hospitality and travel industry, and residents throughout our region,” added Helen Hill, Chair of the Aviation Authority and President and CEO of Explore Charleston.
“A second international destination is further testament to our community’s strength and desirability. It’s also another example of Charleston International and air service development enhancing quality of life for locals. We know how selective airlines are when choosing where to place their resources and are proud to join BermudAir’s network and build on this partnership in the future.”

SHANGHAI, April 19, 2025  — The 2025 “Shanghai Summer” International Consumption Season officially launched on 18 April at Xujiahui Centre. With innovative offerings like the “240-Hour Products” and “City Customised Events,” this year’s programme presents a city-level consumer experience that blends international lifestyle with summer vitality. The first stop of the global roadshow will arrive in Osaka, Japan this May, continuing to share Shanghai’s summer story with international audiences.

A new wave of flagship events is set to unfold. Three globally popular IPs—LEGO China， POP MART, and Shanghai Disney Resort—will join forces in Shanghai. The LEGO China Discovery Resort will enter trial operations, with the ” World Play Festival” making its global debut. POP MART will bring its “Summer Trend Play” series to life, featuring IP exhibitions, new product launches, and interactive pop-ups. Shanghai Disney Resort will also unveil various summer-themed activations, creating immersive entertainment experiences for all ages.

To enhance inbound tourism, “Shanghai Summer” integrates transportation, attractions, and retail districts into a “starter kit” experience tailored for international travellers. China Eastern Airlines will offer discounted group packages across global routes. In terms of payment, Visa is co-developing “Payment-Friendly Zones” to enhance QR code transactions and tax refund scenarios for international travelers. China UnionPay is expanding foreign card acceptance to 65,000 merchants citywide and has launched the “Shanghai Summer” themed card along with a variety of promotional offers—creating a diversified payment ecosystem that integrates credit cards, mobile payments, and digital RMB.

In 2024, offline spending in Shanghai reached RMB 815.9 billion, an 8.2% increase year-on-year. Dining consumption rose to RMB 96.4 billion, up 26.9%. Foreign card spending surged by 68.2%, with Huaihai Road seeing a 208.6% increase and the Lujiazui-Zhangyang Road area growing by 119.9%—demonstrating the city’s growing international appeal.

The official website www.shanghaisummer.com is now available in five languages. AI assistant “Shanghai Xiaoxia” is also online, with many offerings equipped with Japanese-language support—welcoming global travellers to join this vibrant summer celebration in Shanghai.