According to the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd., the national railway encountered a huge success during the 2026 May Day holiday. The number of railway passenger trips exceeded 100 million, reaching 117 million as of Monday, 4 May 2026.

The holiday weekend started strong in terms of train travel, with 24.8 million passengers registered on 1 May. That number immediately meant ‌a new single-day record according to the China State Railway Group. 2,070 additional trains were scheduled to meet demand.

@cgtneurope Traveling across China during the national holiday could be crazy. From Shanghai to Beijing, tourist hotspots were packed with people on May 1, the first day of China’s Labor Day holiday, as millions are swarming into those cities. On Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, users have been sharing videos from the Bund in Shanghai, Forbidden City in Beijing and Hongyadong in Chongqing. All are popular tourist destinations – and now all are full of happy crowds. #ChinaMoments #MayDay #holiday #Chinatravel #China #Forbiddencity #thebund #Shanghai #chongqing ♬ original sound – CGTN Europe

Although official numbers have not yet been shared, the state railway expected another 23 million passengers to travel on Tuesday, 5 May, with 2,225 extra train services planned to navigate on the final day of the May Day holiday. The railway’s official booking platform shows that Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Shenzhen were among the most popular options.

Aside from the high passenger volume, the railway also noted that the system has operated safely and smoothly, partly due to the extra services that had been added over the weekend.

The railway was not the only means of transportation to score well during the May Day holiday in China. Overall, 1.52 billion cross-regional trips were made during the weekend, with many people choosing to travel by car. Waterway and air traffic were also projected to increase, although official data have not yet been communicated at the time of writing.

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May Day holiday

Traditionally, the May Day holiday is one of China’s most popular public holiday periods of the year. According to the state-run China Global Television Network, in 2026, the Chinese moved away from some of the most crowded landmarks and went looking for “meaningful, hands-on cultural encounters.”

“This year’s Government Work Report called for promoting high-quality development of the cultural and tourism industry and expanding integrated formats spanning culture, tourism, sports and commerce.  The policy push is now being echoed across the country, with dozens of provinces and major cities rolling out new models and consumption scenarios at scale, laying a solid foundation for growth in China’s cultural and tourism market. As consumption shifts from sightseeing to immersive experiences, travellers are staying longer and spending more per capita, underscoring a broader transformation in China’s tourism consumption model,” CGTN writes.

Intangible cultural heritage experiences in Suzhou, indoor ice-climbing in Chengdu, paper making in Jingxian County, the Jiangsu Football City League, and immersive activities such as fruit picking and hiking were among the strongest climbers in terms of popularity. 

L’article China registers over 100 million railway passenger trips during May Day holiday est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

When the cruise ship operated by the Dutch company M/V Hondius set off from Argentina on 1 April 2026, ready to explore Antarctica and multiple islands in the South Atlantic, all seemed fine. However, on 6 April 2026, a Dutch 70-year-old passenger fell ill, and he died just a couple of days later, on 11 April 2026. Only on 24 April 2026, his body was removed from the ship at St. Helena. His wife, a 69-year-old Dutch woman, leaves the ship at the same time and takes a flight to South Africa, where she dies on 26 April 2026 after falling ill during the journey.

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Meanwhile, on the ship, other passengers start falling ill. On 27 April, a traveller is evacuated to South Africa, and a woman who started showing symptoms on 28 April dies onboard the ship on 2 May 2026.

That same day, the first lab results start coming in. They confirm that the passenger who was evacuated to South Africa on 27 April suffers from hantavirus. On 4 May, a second (posthumous) test shows that the Dutch woman who died on 26 April also had hantavirus.

@bbcnews Three people have died and another passenger is seriously ill following a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, which is currently off the coast of Cape Verde. #CruiseShip #Cruise #CapeVerde #Hantavirus #News #BBCNews ♬ original sound – BBC News

Since the arrival of the cruise ship in Cape Verde on 3 May 2026, authorities have been investigating what is now considered to be a hantavirus outbreak. Although only two cases have been confirmed, the WHO is confident that other deaths and illnesses have been caused by the same virus. Two other passengers who fell ill have already been evacuated.

The WHO is investigating the outbreak. Although hantavirus is spread by rodents – especially by contact with infected rodents’ saliva, urine, or droppings – the organisation is studying the possibility of rare human-to-human transmission.

“We do believe that there may be some human-to-human transmission that’s happening among the really close contacts, the husband and wife, people who have shared cabins, et cetera,” stated Maria Van Kerkhove, director of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention at the WHO.

#Hantavirus cluster linked to cruise ship travel:
Since 1 April when the boat set sail, of the 147 passengers and crew, 7 people have become ill, among whom 3 have died, 1 is critically ill and 3 are reporting mild symptoms.

Based on the current information, including how… pic.twitter.com/KDKwmrNeBt

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 5, 2026

Such human-to-human transmission is rare but can happen through really close contact, especially with the Andes virus, a specific case of hantavirus. As the Dutch couple who fell ill first had been travelling through Argentina and South America before boarding, it is possible the passengers are suffering from the specific variant, although nothing has been confirmed as of yet.

“At present, the risk to the general population in Europe from this outbreak is considered very low, given that appropriate infection prevention and control measures are being implemented on board and that hantaviruses are not easily spread between people. It is not yet known whether transmission in the current outbreak occurred through environmental exposure or between individuals, and the specific hantavirus involved has not yet been identified,” the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said in a statement on Monday, 4 May 2026.

At the moment of writing, the cruise ship has set sail for the Canary Islands, a journey that should take approximately three days. Once arrived, Spain’s Ministry of Health has confirmed that a team of epidemiologists will go on board to screen the passengers for symptoms and assess the risks. In the meantime, crew members and passengers aboard the ship have been isolated in cabins and are applying maximal physical distancing in order to minimise further risks of contamination.

L’article Deadly hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship went on for weeks before being confirmed est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Starlink is a satellite-based internet system developed by SpaceX that provides high-speed connectivity almost anywhere in the world. It works through a large network of satellites placed in low Earth orbit, which are much closer to Earth than traditional satellites. Because the distance is shorter, data travels faster, helping reduce delays and improve connection quality. Ground stations send signals to the satellites, which then communicate with antennas installed on aircraft, creating a more stable connection throughout the flight.

We’re enhancing our complimentary in flight Wi-Fi offering across all cabin classes on our Airbus A350-900 long-haul and ultra-long-range fleet and A380 aircraft from 2027.@Starlink, the fastest Wi-Fi in the sky, will provide multi-gigabit connectivity on board. Soon, you can… pic.twitter.com/e2VQDBhCCV

— Singapore Airlines (@SingaporeAir) May 4, 2026

The improved service will expand what passengers can do on board. Travellers will be able to stream videos, use social media, play online games, and send or download large files with fewer interruptions. The connection is designed to function from take-off to landing, avoiding the dropouts often seen with older systems. This is particularly useful for business travellers who need to stay productive in the air. Leisure travellers can also enjoy entertainment in a way that feels closer to using the internet at home.

Singapore Airlines will continue to offer complimentary Wi-Fi to a wide range of passengers after the upgrade. Those travelling in Suites, First Class, and Business Class will have unlimited free access throughout their journey. Members of the KrisFlyer loyalty programme flying in Premium Economy and Economy Class will also benefit from free connectivity. This approach ensures that high-speed internet is not limited to premium cabins. It reflects a wider shift towards making onboard connectivity more accessible.

The installation of Starlink will take place progressively across the fleet, allowing the airline to manage the upgrade without major disruption. Aircraft will be fitted with the necessary equipment over time, starting in 2027 and continuing through to 2029. This phased rollout gives the airline room to monitor performance and adjust where needed. As more aircraft are equipped, access to the service will expand steadily across the network.

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The move comes as airlines increasingly invest in onboard connectivity. British Airways has already begun installing Starlink on its aircraft, marking a step in its efforts to modernise the passenger experience. Early feedback suggests the connection can feel similar to broadband on the ground. Other carriers are also moving in this direction, aiming to provide faster and more reliable internet across their fleets.

In Europe, KLM has taken a different approach by introducing free Wi-Fi on short-haul flights. This is particularly relevant on routes where aircraft do not have seatback entertainment screens, meaning passengers rely more on their own devices. By offering free internet, the airline is working towards a more consistent onboard experience. The service allows travellers to stay connected even on shorter journeys.

Not all airlines are choosing the same technology, which shows that the market is still evolving. Delta Air Lines, for example, has partnered with Amazon to use its own low Earth orbit satellite system instead of Starlink. The airline plans to introduce this solution across hundreds of aircraft from 2028 onwards. This highlights how carriers are weighing different options when upgrading their connectivity systems.

At the same time, some airlines have raised concerns about satellite-based systems. They point to added weight and possible effects on fuel use when installing new equipment on aircraft. While faster internet is appealing, airlines still need to consider costs and operational efficiency. Each carrier is therefore balancing performance with practical limits when making these decisions.

Airlines are increasingly treating connectivity as a core part of the travel experience. Passengers expect to stay online during flights, whether for work or entertainment. This shift is pushing carriers to invest in faster and more reliable systems. As more aircraft are equipped with new technology, onboard internet is becoming more consistent across the industry.

L’article Singapore Airlines to roll out Starlink Wi-Fi from 2027 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

This escalation has pushed the regional aviation industry, which is already struggling after 40 days of conflict, to the brink once again. Even if a general peace were to be achieved tomorrow, analysts suggest that the impact on global flight networks would be felt for at least a year. Yesterday’s attacks prompted the UAE to issue Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), enforcing a partial airspace closure that left thousands of passengers across the region with a sense of grim déjà vu.

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According to the latest NOTAMs, traffic into, out of and over the Emirates FIR will only be permitted via specified routes and waypoints, and flow-control measures arex expected. The notices also activate ESCAT procedures across defined areas of UAE airspace and warn pilots of GNSS interference, including possible spoofing and jamming. 

These measures mean that, while flights are still moving, airlines are operating in a highly constrained environment characterised by rerouting, reduced airspace capacity, and the constant threat of technical interference. The restrictions are estimated to be in place from 4 May to 11 May.

NOTAM issued over large parts of UAE pic.twitter.com/01Fy9BU2yO

— Faytuks Network (@FaytuksNetwork) May 4, 2026

This contrasts starkly with the recent optimistic tone of Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths. On Saturday, he described the past few weeks as “extraordinary” for any major airport hub and noted that the collective response had improved the airport’s ability to adapt quickly. He added that this readiness would help to accommodate the return of demand and reinforce DXB’s role as a global leader, despite “regional routing constraints”.

However, while the contrast may be stark, Griffiths’ confidence in the airport’s resilience appears to have been partly confirmed today. Despite Monday’s strikes, data from Flightradar24 shows that Dubai International Airport (DXB) has quickly resumed operations. Just 24 hours after the strikes, flights were taking off and landing with only minor delays – an impressive demonstration of the airport’s sophisticated rapid-recovery protocols.

Multiple flights bound for the UAE diverting to Muscat amid reported attacks on the region. https://t.co/vfONGBTF26 pic.twitter.com/LMMSnzNzjh

— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) May 4, 2026

The stability remains incredibly fragile. The shock of March, when traffic plummeted by 66% to just 2.5 million passengers, is still fresh in the minds of investors and operators alike.

Before the conflict erupted in late February, Dubai airports had projected close to 100 million passengers for 2026, which would have reinforced its position as the busiest international airport. This target now seems out of reach, but officials remain optimistic about a recovery in the second half of the year.

The disruption is not limited to the UAE. In Israel, Ben Gurion Airport is bracing itself for renewed airspace closures. According to Israeli media reports, the Israeli Ministry of Transportation and the Airport Authority have conducted emergency situational assessments in recent hours.

Amid concerns of further escalation, the airport, which had only recently begun welcoming back foreign carriers after months of disruption, has raised its level of preparedness. It is understood that the authorities are reviewing contingency procedures, including measures to manage aircraft on the ground in the event of a rapid deterioration in security.

For the global traveller, the message is clear: the “return to normal” in the Middle East is currently a moving target as the persistent threat of ballistic activity means the world’s most strategic aviation corridors remain on a knife edge.

L’article Dubai aviation rebound under pressure as regional escalation disrupts airspace est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

In March, Dubai’s flagship airport saw passenger traffic collapse by two-thirds as regional conflict caused severe airspace closures, with the international hub suffering direct hits from Iranian drones.

Statistics released on Monday by Dubai Airports show that traffic at Dubai International Airport (DXB) fell by 66% year-on-year. The airport handled just 2.5 million travellers in March, a staggering drop for a hub that normally sees 7 million passengers monthly. The sharp decline follows weeks of airspace closures, flight cancellations, and direct disruption linked to the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.

As the world’s busiest hub for international travellers, DXB serves as the central artery for global long-haul aviation. Any disruption here is felt across the entire network.DXB welcomed 95.2 million passengers in 2025 and had been targeting close to 100 million this year.

DXB welcomes 18.6 million guests in the first quarter of 2026. pic.twitter.com/SPCxxwFrkJ

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 4, 2026

Over the first quarter of 2026, passenger numbers fell by 21% to 18.6 million, down from 23.4 million during the same period last year.

Dubai’s media attributed the collapse to a “period of regional disruption that significantly constrained airspace capacity and flight schedules”.

From late February to early April, the conflict caused widespread chaos in the aviation industry across the Middle East, leaving tens of thousands of travellers stranded in the region when the Islamic Republic responded to joint US-Israeli attacks by launching ballistic missiles and drones at nine countries in the region.

The Iranian strikes targeted US military installations, as well as civilian infrastructure including petrol tanks and data centres.

“The extraordinary events of the past few weeks are unprecedented for any major airport hub,” said Paul Griffiths, chief executive of Dubai Airports, which manages DXB and Al Maktoum International Airport.

In a more positive LinkedIn post on Sunday, Griffiths stated that “demand for travel through Dubai remains strong, and DXB is well-positioned to progressively increase capacity”. However, these comments were made before the renewed attacks on the emirate yesterday, which have triggered a fresh wave of delays and diversions.

Flights bound for Dubai and Sharjah have been held, diverted or rerouted, in a situation that aviation observers have described as reminiscent of the disruption in early March. Aviation tracker Flightradar24 indicated that multiple aircraft were forced to alter their routes as tensions escalated once more, threatening the broader aviation system. Dubai’s success as a global hub hinges on its strategic geographical position.

Although Dubai Airports emphasised that it handled over six million passengers, more than 32,000 aircraft movements, and over 213,000 tonnes of cargo during the peak disruption period, these figures reflect a system operating well below capacity.

Any renewed escalation risks prolonging the downturn and delaying a full recovery. For now, the March figures offer a stark reminder that even the world’s most resilient aviation hubs are not immune to geopolitical shock. For now, the March figures offer a stark reminder: even the world’s most resilient aviation hubs are not immune to geopolitical shock.

L’article Dubai Airport traffic falls 66% as airspace disruptions hit recovery est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The incident allegedly involved two men of no fixed abode, one of whom the public prosecutor said was “gravely injured” with a box cutter and taken to hospital for surgery, while the other was reportedly arrested by law enforcement officers. No motive for the attack has yet been reported.

Brussels Airport was the scene of a terrorist plot that killed 32 people just over a decade ago in March 2016. It has also been linked to drug trafficking activity, with recent accusations that it is the scene of a huge spike in the illegal transport of narcotics. Around nine tonnes of drugs were seized there in 2025, according to figures revealed at the annual press conference of Belgium’s General Administration of Customs and Excise (AAD&A). That’s double the quantity seized the previous year. Police say a small number of corrupt employees have helped to facilitate the illegal imports.

In addition, the airport began closing its doors between midnight and 3 am in 2023 due to an increasing homelessness problem. “Normally the airport is indeed open 24/7, but it is now a temporary closure of a few weeks”, said spokesperson Ihsane Chioua Lekhli at the time. Reporters at HLN, said there were about 75 homeless people living on the premises, in 2023.

However, the transport hub handles tens of millions of passengers every year. In 2025, it welcomed 24.4 million, making the latest violence a relatively isolated occurrence. Yet, Flemish Minister-President Matthias Diependaele has responded to the event with a call for stricter policing—especially of vulnerable communities.

“The pressure on safety and public order is real today, partly due to nuisance and homelessness in and around the airport,” Diependaele said. “Urgent reinforcement is needed so that the police can fully resume their role and travellers can count on a safe and efficient arrival, every single day.”

Diependaele is a known critic of airport operations who has frequently questioned the efficiency of passport control processes and is now raising the matter of the “overall safety of all passengers at our airport.” His motive? In his words, the “clear impact on Flanders,” which means he is “following this case closely.” Diependaele is a member of N-VA, a Flemish nationalist, conservative political party established in 2001 by a right-leaning faction from the centrist-nationalist movement.

L’article Brussels Airport stabbing causes grave injury and demands for police reinforcements est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The South Korean flag carrier did not reference the bloodsport specifically in its press releases, but said in a statement to the AFP it had “suspended the transportation of roosters of all ages on routes from the United States to the Philippines”, adding that “Korean Air is committed to the lawful and safe transport of live animals, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.”

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The move follows long-term pressure from animal rights campaign groups in the Philippines and elsewhere, such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in the Philippines, and Animal Wellness Action. The latter said in a statement that the ban comes after “months of investigations, and more recent inter-corporate engagement.” The airline “agreed to our demand to halt all shipments of roosters to the Philippines,” it said.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for PETA said they “commend Korean Air” and “hope that other airlines will follow suit” since cockfighting “should be illegal all over the world.”

Cockfighting, an activity in which roosters are placed in a pit or on a stage in front of a wagering public audience, in order to fight each other to the death, remains popular in Asia, Latin America, and Spain. Even though it is illegal in all 50 states of America, US breeding programmes are said to produce particularly dominant strains of birds, making them an export that is much in demand.

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Chicken fight to death

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Criminals passing themselves off as legitimate breeders are alleged to be sending “tens of thousands” of cocks to the Philippines every year, relying on a reputation that is “second to none when it comes to propagation of breeding materials,” one Filipino bird farmer in the southern Philippine city of Tagum told reporters.

Although online betting on cockfighting was prohibited in the Philippines in 2022, the industry retains notoriety for cruelty—and profitability. The price for an individual fighting bird can reach as much as $2,000 (over €1,700) according to Animal Wellness Action. With an estimated 40,000 roosters sold from the United States to the Philippines each year, that amounts to a “sector” value of around $80 million, or €68 million. The practice has given Korean Air the dubious title of “the biggest global air carrier of illegally trafficked fighting birds,” in the world, according to Animal Wellness Action—a name the carrier will be keen to shake off.

L’article Korean Air prohibits transport of live roosters from US to Philippines amid bloodsport allegations est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The programme culminated in the 7^th ECO Ministerial Meeting on Tourism, where participants adopted the “Shusha Declaration”, setting out the organisation’s priorities for regional cooperation in the sector. The declaration places a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism development, strengthening tourism education, increasing private sector participation and advancing joint initiatives, including the creation of regional tourism routes and the promotion of ecotourism.

“We are very grateful to Azerbaijan for hosting this very important event,” said Asad Majeed Khan, Secretary-General of the ECO to AZNews, adding that the designation would help “showcase Shusha’s attractions, its beautiful valleys and its cuisine to the rest of the region”.

At the national level, the Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan, Fuad Naghiyev, described the hosting of the ECO events in Shusha as symbolically important, underlining the city’s cultural and historical heritage and its growing role as a tourism destination. He also noted that ECO member states account for a significant share of visitors to Azerbaijan, reflecting strong historical and cultural ties across the region.

Azerbaijan’s broader tourism ambitions

The launch of Shusha’s ECO Tourism Capital year comes as Azerbaijan continues to expand its tourism strategy and international positioning.

“Today, Azerbaijan is investing in the future of tourism, upgrading its infrastructure to make every visitor’s journey smooth and memorable. Combined with our simplified visa system, visiting Azerbaijan has never been easier,” President Ilham Aliyev has said previously.

The country is actively developing sectors such as MICE and adventure tourism, with a clear ambition to attract international events. Azerbaijan hosted COP29 in 2024 and is set to host the World Urban Forum in early 2026 in collaboration with UN-Habitat. It is also investing in winter tourism, with Shahdag Mountain preparing to host major international competitions in 2026.

This broader strategy is reflected in the country’s tourism performance. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, Azerbaijan welcomed more than 2.57 million foreign visitors in 2025, a 2.1% increase year on year, while international visitor spending reached ₼3.4 billion.

Aktau named Tourism Capital 2030

During the ministerial meeting, Aktau was selected as ECO Tourism Capital for 2030, providing continuity to the initiative and reinforcing the organisation’s long-term tourism agenda. The city has also attracted international attention for its natural environment. In 2020, Aktau gained global visibility when a large flock of flamingos gathered at nearby Lake Karakol, highlighting the area’s ecological appeal and potential for nature-based tourism.

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Aktau’s selection was based on a range of criteria, including its tourism potential, infrastructure, cultural and historical significance, readiness to host international events, sustainable development credentials and security. According to ECO Deputy Secretary-General Yerzhan Mukash, the city was the only candidate nominated for the status.

Located on the shores of the Caspian Sea, Aktau has seen steady growth in its tourism infrastructure in recent years, supported by expanding transport links and an increasing number of hotel developments.

Although called a sea, the Caspian Sea is the world’s largest inland body of water, yet it offers all the characteristics of a seaside destination. In Aktau, the beach season typically runs from May until September or October, with summer temperatures often reaching 45° Celsius and minimal rainfall.

Aktau has also been positioning itself as a seaside destination, attracting both domestic and international visitors seeking beach tourism along the Caspian coast.

L’article ECO adopts Shusha Declaration and names Aktau Tourism Capital 2030 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The project is designed as a phased experiment rather than a simple short-term test. Teams will first analyse airport operations in detail to identify where robots can be used safely and effectively. This will be followed by repeated trials that simulate real working conditions on the ground. The idea is to gradually build a system where robots and humans work together in a structured way. In the long term, the partners hope to create a more sustainable model for airport operations. 

The robots will initially be used for physically demanding tasks such as loading and unloading cargo containers and moving equipment on the tarmac. These machines are built in a humanoid form, meaning they can move in a way that is similar to humans and operate in spaces designed for people. This allows them to work within existing airport infrastructure without major changes. During demonstrations, a robot measuring around 130 centimetres was seen carefully pushing cargo onto a conveyor belt and even waving to a colleague. The robots can operate for two to three hours before needing to recharge, and they are currently controlled remotely by human operators, mirroring human movements. 

One of the main reasons behind this initiative is the growing labour shortage in Japan’s aviation sector. The country is dealing with a declining working-age population while at the same time welcoming a rising number of international visitors. More than seven million tourists arrived in Japan in just the first two months of 2026, adding pressure to airport services. Ground handling work is often physically demanding and requires long shifts, making it harder to attract and retain staff. By introducing robots, airlines hope to reduce the physical strain on workers and maintain smooth operations. 

The issue goes beyond aviation and reflects a broader national challenge. Japan may need more than 6.5 million foreign workers by 2040 to meet its economic goals as the domestic workforce continues to shrink. This creates political and social pressure, as immigration levels remain a sensitive topic. In this context, automation and robotics are increasingly seen as part of the solution. The use of humanoid robots in airports is therefore not only about efficiency, but also about responding to long-term demographic changes. 

The technology behind the robots combines artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and remote operation. This allows them to perform tasks that require both strength and precision while still being supervised by human operators. GMO Internet Group, the parent company involved in the project, has even declared 2026 as the “First Year of Humanoids”. The aim is to accelerate the use of this technology across different industries, not just aviation. Airports are being used as a testing ground because they present real-world challenges that require adaptable solutions. 

Robots are already present in some Japanese airports, where they are used for tasks such as security patrols and customer service. The introduction of humanoid robots for ground handling is, therefore, a continuation of an ongoing trend rather than a completely new development. What makes this project different is the focus on physically demanding back-end operations that have traditionally relied on human labour. These tasks are less visible to passengers but are essential for keeping flights running on time. 

Japan’s labor shortage is so severe it burned through its entire 5-year quota for foreign restaurant workers in record time.

The food service sector (restaurants, hospital/nursing home meal services) hit its 50,000 cap early – new Specified Skilled Worker visa applications…

— World of Statistics (@stats_feed) April 26, 2026

Despite the growing role of automation, human workers will remain essential in airport operations. Certain responsibilities, especially those related to safety and decision-making, cannot be handled by robots. Officials involved in the project have made it clear that the goal is to support employees rather than replace them. By taking over repetitive and physically heavy tasks, robots could help improve working conditions and reduce fatigue. Human oversight will continue to be necessary to ensure that all operations meet strict safety standards.

The trial at Haneda Airport reflects a wider shift in the global aviation industry. Airports around the world are exploring new technologies to handle increasing passenger numbers and improve efficiency. These include biometric boarding systems, automated baggage handling, and autonomous vehicles. Humanoid robots could become another tool in this transition, especially in locations where labour shortages are becoming more severe. Their ability to work in human-designed environments gives them an advantage over more specialised machines.

In the future, the role of these robots could expand beyond cargo handling. Japan Airlines is already considering using them for tasks such as cleaning aircraft cabins and operating ground support equipment. As the technology improves, robots may become more autonomous and capable of interacting more naturally with both staff and passengers. If the current trial proves successful, similar systems could be introduced at other airports in Japan and beyond. This would mark an important step towards a more automated and flexible airport environment.

L’article Tokyo’s Haneda Airport to trial humanoid robots for ground operations est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Wallonia positions itself as a diverse and accessible destination for travellers seeking nature, heritage and cultural experiences, with a wide range of sites located within easy reach of Brussels. With efficient rail links connecting major hubs such as Namur, Liège and Mons, and most attractions within an hour’s drive by car, the region offers a diverse travel experience.

1. Citadel of Namur

The Citadel of Namur rises above the city on a rocky spur, offering sweeping views over the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers. Originally home to the wealthy Counts of Namur in the Middle Ages and later used as a holiday residence by King Leopold, the citadel carries a 2,000-year history, tracing its transformation from a medieval fortress to a royal retreat. The site attracts visitors for guided tours, walks and cultural installations, including underground galleries and a museum dedicated to perfume-making by Guy Delforge. Bursting with picturesque panoramic views, romantic river scenery and a striking cable car experience, the site makes it a perfect escape just 48 minutes by train from Brussels.

2. Bouillon Castle

Set in the heart of the Ardennes, Bouillon Castle is a striking medieval fortress overlooking a dramatic bend of the Semois River and forms the centrepiece of the region often described as the “Pearl of the Semois Valley.” The perfectly preserved stronghold offers visitors a vivid journey into the past, with its ramparts, towers and dungeons revealing layers of feudal history. In summer, evening visits by torchlight create an atmospheric experience that evokes its medieval origins. Beyond the castle walls, the multimedia Archéoscope Godefroid de Bouillon brings the story of the First Crusade to life, dating back to 1096, while other highlights include a traditional cheese cellar, daily falconry demonstrations and immersive explorations of the site’s historic underground chambers.

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3. Dinant and the Meuse Valley

Dinant is one of Wallonia’s most recognisable landscapes, framed by steep rock cliffs and the winding Meuse River. The city combines river cruises, rich cultural heritage and distinctive local experiences, including “draisines”, a rail vehicle driven along former train tracks. Overlooking the town, the Citadel of Dinant houses a long-standing museum of history and weaponry and can be reached either by climbing 408 steps or by cable car, both leading to sweeping views of the valley. Nearby, the Castle of Freÿr, an exceptional heritage site, has been inhabited for centuries and known for its refined interiors and expansive gardens, where centuries-old orange trees fill the air with citrus aromas.

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A short distance away, the Annevoie Water Gardens offer a contrasting setting of landscaped ponds, fountains and waterfalls, blending French, English and Italian styles. Each year in May or June, Annevoie Water Gardens comes alive during its Venetian Costume Carnival, when more than 100 participants in ornate carnival dress move through the gardens in a lively procession. Visitors encounter masked figures as they prance, dance and wander among trees, ponds and water features, creating a theatrical atmosphere that blends performance with the scenic surroundings.

4. Pairi Daiza

Pairi Daiza has built a reputation as one of Europe’s beautiful zoological parks. Home to more than 5,000 animals, it recreates natural habitats across themed gardens representing different continents. Species range from elephants, white tigers, to orangutans, lions, rhinos and many more. Among its most notable residents is Tian Bao, the giant panda born in 2016, who drew international attention on social media. The park’s immersive concept and diverse wildlife make it a major attraction for families and nature enthusiasts.

5. Hautes Fagnes Nature Park

Covering around 30,000 hectares, the Hautes Fagnes Nature Park offers one of Belgium’s most distinctive natural landscapes. Known for its peat bogs, forests and elevated terrain, it supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Surrounding areas such as Spa, Malmedy, Eupen and even the German town of Monschau frame this rugged natural reserve, which includes the Hertogenwald forest and four artificial lakes. Marked trails and guided tours allow visitors to explore the unique area year-round, while in winter the landscape transforms into one of Belgium’s rare cross-country skiing destinations.

6. Liège and La Boverie Museum

Easily reached in under an hour from Brussels, Liège stands out for its lively atmosphere and reputation as one of the region’s most vibrant cities, known for its dynamic art scene. At its heart, the La Boverie Museum occupies a landmark building dating back to the 1905 World Fair and has become a key cultural institution. Set within a riverside park overlooking the Meuse River, the museum hosts major international exhibitions in collaboration with the Louvre while also showcasing a permanent collection featuring works by artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Kees van Dongen, Claude Monet and Adrien de Witte, attracting visitors from across the world.

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7. Les Bains de Spa

The town of Spa is widely regarded as the origin of the modern spa concept. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has long attracted visitors seeking relaxation in a natural setting. Surrounded by lush landscapes, the city forms part of a European network of renowned spa towns including Bath and Vichy. The 2025 reopening of Les Bains de Spa, a world-class luxury hotel with high-end wellness facilities, refined dining and elevated lounges, reinforces its status as a destination for wellness tourism.

8. Stavelot Abbey and Spa-Francorchamps

The Stavelot Abbey blends religious heritage with the speed of motorsport. The site, one of the oldest monastic foundations in Belgium, now houses exhibitions including a museum dedicated to the nearby Spa-Francorchamps racing circuit. The venue features historic vehicles like a Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow and a Bugatti Type 35, displayed within the abbey’s vaulted halls and cellars.

9. Château de La Hulpe & Folon Foundation

Just a short drive from Brussels, the Château de La Hulpe sits within the vast Solvay Estate, where wooded hills, ponds and scenic paths stretch into the Soignes Forest. Built in 1842 and surrounded by lush gardens and exquisite sculptures, the château is accessible to visitors only during public events. Nearby, the Folon Foundation, located in the estate’s former farm, showcases more than 500 works by Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon. 

10. Waterloo Battlefield

The Battle of Waterloo site stands as one of Europe’s most significant historical landmarks. Here, on 18 June 1815, Napoleon was defeated by the Duke of Wellington and Field Marshal Blücher after nine intense hours of fighting. Visitors can explore the Lion’s Mound, a 141-foot-high memorial overlooking the surrounding plains and commemorating 40,000 men who lost their lives. Nearby, Hougoumont Farm offers sweeping views over the battlefield, while the modern underground museum, The Memorial 1815, completes the visit with immersive exhibitions.

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With its combination of natural beauty, historic sites and rich cultural heritage, Wallonia continues to strengthen its appeal as a destination that can be explored easily and efficiently from the Belgian capital. 

L’article 10 must-visit destinations in Wallonia for your next getaway est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.