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Aviation Safety Update: Major Korean Airlines Ban the Use of Power Banks on Flights — Here’s the List
Since January 26, 2026, several major Korean airlines have enforced a ban on the use of power banks on aircraft as part of enhanced flight safety measures to reduce the risk of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. This regulation does not apply to just one airline but covers multiple major carriers in South Korea. Korean Airlines Implementing the Ban The following airlines have announced a ban on the use of power banks during flights: Korean Air – South Korea’s largest national carrier, prohibits the use of power banks in the cabin to charge electronic devices for flight safety reasons. Asiana Airlines – Part of the Hanjin Group, also enforcing this ban across all routes. Jin Air – A low-cost carrier under the Hanjin Group that follows the new safety policy. Air Busan – Another Hanjin-affiliated airline banning power bank usage during flights. Air Seoul – Another airline within the same group implementing similar rules. Jeju Air – A major Korean low-cost carrier that has also imposed a full ban on power bank usage onboard. Policy Details While passengers are still allowed to bring power banks into the cabin within permitted capacity and quantity limits, their use and charging during the flight are strictly prohibited. Power banks must be kept within personal reach (such as in the seat pocket or under the seat) and must not be placed in overhead compartments, as this could delay response to potential overheating or short circuits. Why Was This Ban Implemented? The ban comes amid growing concerns over safety issues related to lithium-ion power banks. Fire incidents involving backup battery devices, including a case that occurred on an Air Busan aircraft some time ago, have prompted the industry to tighten safety regulations. What Does This Mean for Passengers? Passengers may still carry power banks in their cabin baggage, but usage and charging during the flight are prohibited. To avoid inconvenience, travelers are advised to fully charge their devices before boarding and use aircraft USB ports only if permitted by the airline. Always check the latest regulations regarding power banks and lithium-ion batteries, as policies may change to ensure flight safety.
31 January 2026
AirAsia Recognized as the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for 16 Consecutive Years: Here’s Why
AirAsia has been awarded the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline at the Skytrax World Airline Awards for 16 consecutive years, a remarkable achievement in the low-cost carrier (LCC) aviation sector. This award is based on a global survey with millions of inputs from international passengers evaluating hundreds of airlines worldwide. Skytrax Awards: The Benchmark for the LCC Industry The Skytrax World Airline Awards are considered one of the most prestigious standards in the aviation industry. The “World’s Best Low-Cost Airline” title is awarded based on passengers’ experiences regarding service, pricing, and overall airline quality. Being recognized for over a decade highlights AirAsia’s strong position in the LCC segment. AirAsia’s Journey as a Low-Cost Carrier Since its inception, AirAsia has positioned itself as a leader in the low-cost carrier category. The airline is known for its budget-friendly pricing strategies and service innovations that make flying more affordable for many people across Asia and beyond. While its operations and routes continue to expand, AirAsia’s focus on value and accessibility has remained consistent, contributing to its reputation as the world’s best LCC. Contribution to the Aviation Industry AirAsia has not only won global awards for many years but has also contributed to the growth and popularity of low-cost air travel worldwide. By successfully expanding its network and introducing the low-cost carrier model to new markets, AirAsia has helped increase air travel accessibility for millions of passengers. What This Achievement Means for Passengers Being recognized as the world’s best low-cost airline for 16 consecutive years confirms that AirAsia is not just an ordinary budget airline, but a global benchmark in the low-cost carrier (LCC) category. Consistency in service quality, pricing strategies, and passenger trust are the key factors behind this remarkable achievement.
09 January 2026
Air Japan Officially Closes After Less Than 2 Years of Operation
Air Japan has announced that all of its flight operations will cease by the end of March 2026, with the final day of operations being March 28, 2026. This move is taken by its parent company, All Nippon Airways (ANA), as part of a brand strategy restructuring. A Brief Overview of Air Japan Air Japan is a Japanese airline launched by the All Nippon Airways group as a brand targeting medium- to long-haul flights with a hybrid or low-cost model. Although the Air Japan brand only began operating international routes in early 2024, the decision to cease its operations was announced on October 30, 2025. Reasons for Closure According to ANA, several key factors driving this decision include challenges in the aircraft supply chain and delays in new aircraft deliveries, as well as engine maintenance issues affecting the Boeing 787 fleet across the group. Additionally, there is a desire to simplify the airline brand structure within the All Nippon Airways group by consolidating operations under the main ANA brand and the low-cost carrier Peach Aviation. Impact on the Japanese Airline Industry The closure of Air Japan reflects the intense competition and high cost pressures in the medium- to long-haul aviation sector. This move strengthens All Nippon Airways’ position with two main lines: ANA for full-service flights and Peach for low-cost operations. The entire Air Japan fleet, cabins, and crew will be transferred to ANA operations, ensuring service continuity for passengers.
14 November 2025
26th Anniversary of GarudaMiles: Redeem Garuda Miles for More Benefits!
In celebration of the 26th anniversary of GarudaMiles, Garuda Indonesia’s frequent-flyer program has prepared various attractive bonuses for its members! Special Bonus GarudaMiles for the 26th Anniversary In celebration of the 26th anniversary of GarudaMiles, Garuda Indonesia is offering special bonuses for all its members. From bonus miles to attractive discounts on upcoming flights, all are provided to make your journeys more enjoyable. 100% GarudaMiles Bonus Garuda Indonesia presents a Buy Miles Bonus 100% promotion, where every purchase or gifting of miles via the FlyGaruda app or Garuda Indonesia’s official website will receive double bonus miles. Terms & Conditions of the Promotion Program period: September 1–26, 2025. The promotion applies only to transactions via the FlyGaruda app and Garuda Indonesia’s official website. Only valid for active GarudaMiles members. Purchased miles do not affect membership status or tier. Maximum miles purchase per year is 250,000 miles. Purchased or gifted miles cannot be canceled, refunded, or transferred to another account. Bonus up to 260 GarudaMiles For this 260-mile bonus, there are two different types of bonuses: 1. Garuda x bluDebit Card (GbDC) Garuda Indonesia, together with bluDebit Card (GbDC), presents a special promotion for GbDC cardholders. During the period September 8–30, 2025, you can receive GarudaMiles bonuses simply by making transactions with the bluDebit Card. Example: Minimum transaction of IDR 500,000 → receive 26 miles bonus Minimum transaction of IDR 5,000,000 → receive 260 miles bonus Terms & Conditions: Valid for all bluDebit Card (GbDC) holders. Bonus is given only if the minimum transaction requirements are met. Maximum bonus that can be obtained is 260 miles per customer during the promotion period. Valid for all types of transactions (offline/online merchants, Garuda Indonesia website, and FlyGaruda app). Bonus miles will be credited to the GarudaMiles account by the 10th of the following month if the total accumulated miles reach a minimum of 50. If the total accumulated miles are less than 50 but the transaction meets requirements, only 26 miles will be given. Limited quota. 2. Request bluDebit Card via Blu App Besides the transaction bonus, there is also an offer for those who want to create a bluDebit Card (GbDC). By requesting a card through the Blu app during September 8–30, 2025, you have the chance to receive a 260 GarudaMiles bonus. How to Get the Bonus: Open a bluAccount via the FlyGaruda app. Request a GbDC card through the Blu app. Complete all steps before September 30, 2025:- Maintain a minimum bluAccount balance of IDR 250,000- Make at least 1 transaction (no minimum amount)- Activate the GbDC card and make a minimum transaction of IDR 50,000 Terms & Conditions: Applicable to all GbDC cardholders. Promotion only applies to new account openings during the program period. Bonus is given to the fastest customers who meet all requirements. Limited quota. Welcome Bonus up to 26,000 GarudaMiles For new Garuda x bluDebit Card (GbDC) holders, an attractive welcome bonus of up to 26,000 miles is available. The promotion runs from September 8 – November 30, 2025. How to Get the Bonus: Apply for the GbDC card. Make the first transaction within a maximum of 60 days after card activation. Complete the Blu account opening and meet the required average balance. Example: Minimum transaction of IDR 1,000,000 with an average balance of IDR 10,000,000 → Bonus 260 miles Minimum transaction of IDR 10,000,000 with an average balance of IDR 50,000,000 → Bonus 2,600 miles Minimum transaction of IDR 100,000,000 with an average balance of IDR 500,000,000 → Bonus 26,000 miles Additional Terms: Bonus will be credited no later than 30 working days after the 60-day period since card activation. Limited quota, valid while supplies last. Bonus up to 2,600 GarudaMiles Below are details of two different types of 2,600 GarudaMiles bonuses: 1. For New GarudaMiles Members For new registrants as GarudaMiles Regular or Junior, a welcome bonus of up to 2,600 miles is available during September 17–30, 2025. Promo Details: After registration, new members automatically receive 1,260 miles. The first 26 registrants (Regular or Junior) will receive an additional 1,340 miles, totaling 2,600 miles. Minimum age for registration:- GarudaMiles Regular: 12 years and above- GarudaMiles Junior: 2–11 years Registration can be done via all online and offline channels. Bonus miles are valid for 12 months from the date awarded. 2. For GarudaMiles Gold Privilege Purchases For those who wish to enjoy exclusive facilities, Garuda Indonesia also offers a 2,600-mile bonus for each purchase of the GarudaMiles Gold Privilege package for the first 26 buyers. This promotion runs from September 17–30, 2025, with a price of IDR 4,990,000. Promo Details: Gold Privilege membership is valid for 12 months. Gold Privilege cards will be delivered between October 14–31, 2025 (delivery available only within Indonesia). Price includes tax and shipping fees. Purchases can be made at Garuda Indonesia sales offices or via Customer Service (email/WhatsApp). Purchased Gold Privilege cards cannot be returned, refunded, or exchanged. Bonus miles will be credited no later than 14 working days after the program ends. Miles awarded are award miles and cannot be redeemed for cash, transferred, or used for tier evaluation. 26% Discount for Redeem Miles There are also two types of 26% redeem miles discounts: 1. For Garuda Indonesia Flight Tickets & Upgrades Garuda Indonesia offers a 26% discount for miles redemption applicable for award tickets and flight upgrades on all routes. Promo Details: Booking period: September 17–30, 2025 Travel period: September 17, 2025 – January 31, 2026 Applicable to all active GarudaMiles members No passenger limit Valid for both domestic and international Garuda Indonesia routes Applies even on blackout dates Booking can be made via online or offline channels, including GarudaMiles WhatsApp Service Cannot be combined with other miles discount programs Discount only applies to new ticket issuance and flight upgrades Not valid for non-flight redemptions (e.g., merchandise) 2. For Partner Airline Tickets In addition to Garuda Indonesia, the 26% miles redemption discount also applies to partner airlines, both SkyTeam and non-SkyTeam members, during GarudaMiles’ 26th anniversary period. Promo Details: Booking period: September 17–30, 2025 Travel period: September 17, 2025 – January 31, 2026 Applicable to all active members Valid for Economy and Business class (according to partner airline rules) Applies only to new award tickets, not class upgrades Discount cannot be combined with other redemption promotions List of Partner Airlines with 26% Discount: SkyTeam Airlines (various routes) Singapore Airlines (SQ) Emirates Japan Airlines (JAL) Qatar Airways Redemption can be made at Garuda Indonesia sales offices, airport ticketing offices, or via GarudaMiles WhatsApp Service. 26% Bonus Miles Additionally, there are two bonus miles offers of 26% as follows: 1. Happy Miles Day Receive a 26% bonus on total miles earned through GarudaMiles partners, including bank and non-bank point redemptions, during the limited promotion period. Terms & Conditions: Applies to miles earned during September 25–27, 2025 Maximum bonus per member is 50,000 miles, calculated from all eligible partner transactions Bonus miles are valid for 12 months from the date awarded Members can earn or redeem miles from multiple partners during the program Bonus does NOT apply to miles earned via co-brand credit/debit cards or excluded partners Bonus miles will be credited no later than 60 days after the program ends Important Exclusions: Not valid for miles from the following co-brand Garuda cards:- Garuda Indonesia UOB Card- Garuda BNI Visa Signature Credit Card- Garuda BNI Visa Platinum Credit Card- Garuda bluDebit Card- Mandiri Garuda Debit Card- BNI Garuda Debit Card Also excluded: Jenius, DBS, Maybank, HSBC, UOB Buy Miles program 2. Golden Fly In celebration of GarudaMiles’ 26th anniversary, members flying on September 26, 2025, will receive an additional 26% bonus miles for Tier Miles and Award Miles. Terms & Conditions: Applicable to all active GarudaMiles members Only valid for flights on September 26, 2025 Only valid for flights operated by Garuda Indonesia (prime flights) and for paid ticket classes according to applicable fare rules Bonus miles will be credited after the flight is completed, no later than 30 working days after the program ends Bonus Award Miles are valid for 36 months (3 years) Bonus Tier Miles will be counted for membership tier evaluation Retroactive claims are not allowed So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of GarudaMiles’ 26th anniversary special promotion and enjoy these exciting benefits now!
18 September 2025
Airport Regulations for Flights to Dubai Have Changed – Here’s What You Need to Know
Previously, passengers were allowed to bring essential items such as medications in their cabin baggage. However, under the latest regulations, certain medications are now prohibited on flights to Dubai. It is crucial for travelers to be aware of these regulatory changes to ensure they only carry items that are permitted under the updated guidelines. Many passengers board flights without fully understanding which items are banned, which can lead to unnecessary issues for both themselves and airport security staff. Items prohibited on flights to Dubai include narcotics (such as cocaine, heroin, and cannabis), as well as betel leaves, sharp weapons, gambling tools, and goods originating from boycotted countries. Furthermore, printed documents, works of art, certain types of food (including non-vegetarian dishes), and counterfeit currency are also strictly forbidden. In addition, certain items require prior authorization and payment before being brought into Dubai. These items include plants, fertilizers, books, specific medications, medical equipment, cosmetics, electronic devices, alcoholic beverages, personal care products, e-cigarettes, and electronic hookahs (shisha). Specific medications are also banned on flights to Dubai. These include Betametadol, Alpha-methylfentanyl, Codoxime, Fentanyl, Methadone, Opium, Oxycodone, Codeine, Amphetamine, and other substances listed in the airport authority’s guidelines. It is extremely important for travelers planning to visit Dubai to thoroughly understand these regulations to avoid inconvenience or legal issues during their trip. Always check for the latest updates from airport authorities or consult with your airline for specific details before preparing for your journey to Dubai.
11 August 2025
Bukchon Hanok Village in Korea Crowded with Tourists Due to Over Tourism
Since the beginning of 2024, many countries around the world have started facing the problem of over tourism. Some of the countries affected by over tourism are trying to tackle it by attempting to minimize the arrival of tourists to their countries, one of which is South Korea. With its booming K-pop culture and popular dramas, Korea has certainly become one of the favorite destinations for international tourists. The continuously increasing number of tourist arrivals has made Korea begin to struggle in handling the situation. Local Government Takes Action The local government in one of Seoul’s historical tourist spots, namely Bukchon Hanok Village, will take stricter measures to protect the Bukchon Hanok Village area from crowds of tourists flooding the streets and causing conflicts with local residents. Bukchon Hanok Village itself is one of Korea’s favorite tourist destinations. Its main attraction lies in the beautiful and well-preserved traditional Korean houses known as “hanok.” As with the impact of over tourism in other countries, here too the number of tourists has far exceeded the number of local residents. This has led to increasing complaints about noise, littering, and privacy issues around the area. In an effort to ease tensions between tourists and local residents, as well as to control the crowds, the local government will start limiting tourist access to Bukchon Hanok Village beginning in early October 2024. There will be fines imposed on those who violate the rules. In addition, a strict curfew for tourists will be enforced every day between 5:00 PM and 10:00 AM. Chartered buses carrying tourists will also be restricted in several locations. The goal is to reduce traffic congestion that often occurs. Furthermore, the area around Bukchon Hanok Village will be divided into three zones: red, orange, and yellow. This zoning aims to enable the local government to control and monitor crowds in the most densely populated areas. On the other hand, according to data from the Seoul government, a total of 6.6 million tourists, both local and international, visited Bukchon Hanok Village in 2023.
07 July 2025
Bangkok Named Best City in Asia Pacific by Travel + Leisure Magazine
Travel + Leisure, a leading travel and lifestyle magazine, has been organizing the Luxury Awards Asia Pacific for the past three years to determine the best cities and islands in the Asia-Pacific region for global travelers. The awards are determined through a survey conducted among its readers over a specific period. The 2024 survey was conducted from January to March of this year. According to the released statement, the best cities in Asia are often associated with street food vendors, friendly locals, five-star service, and endless cultural offerings. Meanwhile, the best islands in Asia are those that readers believe strike the perfect balance between accessibility and remoteness, local character, and global sensibility. Bangkok Takes the Top Spot In 2024, Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, took the top position as the best city due to its perfect blend of gilded temples, modern architecture, and the sights, sounds, and aromas of lively street food and delicious cuisine. Beyond its food scene, Travel + Leisure also noted that Bangkok boasts a vibrant nightlife, unparalleled choices of luxury resorts and hotels, and a diverse selection of shopping destinations. Furthermore, Bangkok has a softer and more spiritual side, marked by numerous ornately decorated temples and palaces, canals, and an artistic cultural heritage. On the other hand, three islands in Thailand made it to the list of the best islands in the Asia-Pacific region. These three islands are Koh Samui, Phuket, and Koh Phi Phi. For the complete list, here are the top 10 best cities in the Asia-Pacific region according to Travel + Leisure magazine: Bangkok, Thailand Osaka, Japan Tokyo, Japan Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) Kyoto, Japan Hanoi, Vietnam Hong Kong Seoul, South Korea Singapore Taipei, Taiwan And here is the complete list of the top 10 best islands in the Asia-Pacific region according to Travel + Leisure magazine: Koh Samui, Thailand Bali, Indonesia Palawan, Philippines Boracay, Philippines Phuket, Thailand Sri Lanka Sumba, Indonesia Penang, Malaysia Koh Phi Phi, Thailand Phu Quoc, Vietnam
07 July 2025
Air Travel Rules in Turkey: Passengers Who Stand Up Too Early Will Be Fined!
For those of you planning to fly to Turkey soon, there’s an important update you need to know: the Turkish government has now implemented strict rules for passengers who stand up too early before the plane has come to a complete stop on the runway. Want to know how much the fine is? Read the full information below! Understanding the Term “Aisle Lice” in the Aviation World Passengers who stand up too early on a plane, even before it has come to a complete stop on the runway, have a special nickname—“Aisle Lice.” This term comes from the word “aisle,” referring to the walkway inside the plane, and “lice,” meaning parasites. The term “Aisle Lice” is used to describe the behavior of passengers who frequently stand, walk, or linger in the aisle during the flight. More specifically, it often refers to impatient passengers who stand up before the appropriate time, especially when the plane has not yet landed or has not completely stopped at the gate. This kind of behavior can block the way for other passengers and make the cabin atmosphere less comfortable. Additionally, it disrupts the flight attendants as they carry out their duties, such as serving food or delivering safety instructions. Due to these impacts, several countries, including Turkey, have started enforcing strict regulations that prohibit passengers from standing up too early to ensure safety and comfort during the flight. Sanctions for Passengers Who Violate the Rule The Turkish Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has officially implemented a new rule prohibiting airplane passengers from standing or unfastening their seatbelts before the aircraft has completely stopped on the runway. This policy was introduced to enhance safety and order during the landing process and passenger disembarkation. Passengers who violate this rule will be subject to an administrative fine of up to 2,603 Turkish lira (around Rp1,100,000 or $67). This policy also aims to reduce the risk of accidents caused by passengers who rush to stand and move inside the cabin when it is not yet safe to do so. The regulation has received mixed reactions from the public and the aviation industry, with some supporting the move in the name of safety, while others consider it to be overly strict. The Background Behind the Rule The regulation banning passengers from standing too early on planes was introduced as a preventive measure in response to growing safety concerns during the landing and disembarkation process. According to a letter published by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in Turkey, at the beginning of 2025, the country recorded a significant increase in complaints about passengers ignoring crew instructions by standing up and leaving their seats while the seatbelt sign was still on. Furthermore, passengers were often seen standing in the aisles and opening the overhead luggage compartments before the plane had come to a full stop on the runway. Such behavior not only disrupts the flight crew’s service operations but also increases the risk of accidents and injuries during landing. As a result, strict rules and fines have been implemented to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers and to maintain an orderly and secure flight environment.
28 June 2025
Balmoral Castle Tour: A Rare Opportunity to Visit the Royal Family’s Balmoral Castle
For the first time in over 170 years, the gates of Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, have been opened to the public. Visitors interested in exploring the castle can purchase tickets for the Balmoral Castle tour, priced at £100 (approximately IDR 2,068,523) or £150 (approximately IDR 3,102,787). Unfortunately, at the time of writing, it has been confirmed that the tickets for the tour have already sold out. Tour Highlights and Royal Changes Those who managed to secure tickets will have the chance to tour several rooms inside Balmoral Castle, including the Entrance Hall, Red Corridor, Main Dining Room, Family Dining Room, Lobby, Library, and Drawing Room. Visitors will also witness changes made to the castle by King Charles III after his accession to the throne, such as his decision to return the drawing room carpet to the original Hunting Stewart tartan design chosen by Queen Victoria. The special tour took place from July 1st to August 4th, with only 40 visitors allowed per day. Balmoral Castle is famously known as the favorite residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II. It was at this castle that the Queen spent her final days, took her last photograph, and passed away in 2022. Previously, the public was only allowed to access the ballroom and grounds of the castle. However, during July and August, visitors were permitted to enter rooms that were once reserved exclusively for the British Royal Family. The tours were scheduled just before the King and Queen arrived at Balmoral Castle for their annual summer vacation.
31 May 2025
