The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on African governments to capitalize on the burgeoning aviation sector to boost economic and social development across the continent. While African airlines are projected to achieve their second consecutive year of collective profit in 2024, IATA highlights the need to address challenges such as infrastructure deficiencies, high costs, and blocked funds to fully realize the sector’s potential.
The Michigan Legislature has approved a $82.5 billion budget for fiscal year 2025, prioritizing economic development initiatives and education. The budget includes funding for project attraction, placemaking, talent growth, and innovation, strengthening the state’s ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy.
The Quebec government has announced a $6.9 million investment in four tourism organizations in Est-du-Québec to enhance the region’s tourism experience and promote it beyond Quebec. This investment underscores the importance of tourism to Quebec’s regional economic development and aims to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Sir Howard Bernstein, a prominent figure in Manchester’s growth and development, passed away recently. He was instrumental in establishing Manchester Airport as a vital hub for international connectivity, driving economic prosperity for the region. His dedication to enhancing Manchester’s global reach and fostering strategic partnerships left an enduring legacy.
India faces an obstacle to its economic potential: the weakness of its governance system. This shortcoming hinders the effective delivery of essential services to citizens, affecting education, healthcare, and other crucial areas. The author argues that investing in building the capacity of the Indian state is paramount to overcoming this challenge. However, political incentives and a lack of institutional support often undermine such investments. Moreover, India’s attempt to provide comprehensive welfare services despite limited fiscal capacity has led to a ‘vote bank’ politics that prioritizes short-term gains over long-term development. The author emphasizes the need for independent institutions to align politicians’ interests with public welfare, as well as the importance of strategic philanthropy that focuses on improving governance rather than just providing direct relief.
The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED) corporation announced its intention to dissolve at the end of 2024, as the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County will conduct their own in-house operations for economic development. The decision follows the city and county’s decision not to renew the tri-party memorandum of understanding that expires on December 31, 2024. Established in 1998, PKED delivered economic development and tourism services to the region, but its core funding structure will be eliminated by the city and county’s decision. Despite the dissolution, PKED’s board of directors chairperson, Burton Lee, expressed optimism for the region’s economic growth and urged the city and county to consider existing PKED projects and programs in their future plans.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has selected Pomerleau as the construction management firm and Alstef Canada as the baggage handling system provider for the upcoming facilities work associated with the introduction of United States Customs and Border Protection (US CBP) Preclearance, set to commence in late 2025. The implementation of US CBP Preclearance is expected to provide increased efficiency and more options for US-bound passengers, enhance tourism and business activities, boost employment, and strengthen the ties between the United States and Canada.
Charleston International Airport is expecting a record-breaking year with a 27% increase in travelers during the Memorial Day 2024 holiday travel period. The airport saw nearly 110,000 passengers flying in and out during the Memorial Day Holiday period, up from 86,000 in 2023. The increase is attributed to the addition of ultra-low-cost carriers and expanded service from existing airlines. Charleston Airport is a major economic driver for the Lowcountry region and the state of South Carolina.
Visit Tampa Bay, in partnership with over 900 hospitality partners, recognizes the immense impact of travel during National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW). From May 19th to May 25th, Tampa Bay celebrates the tourism industry, which plays a vital role in the region’s economic growth, vibrant communities, and job creation.
Cardiff Bay’s single-platform station, known for its limited connectivity, is set to undergo a transformative £1 billion upgrade. This extensive investment aims to enhance the rail network, with seven additional stations added to the train services from Cardiff Bay. The project includes the construction of a new platform at Cardiff Bay station and a new stop in Butetown, along with the introduction of newer trains with increased capacity. The upgrades are expected to significantly improve connectivity for tourists, travelers, and tourism businesses, fostering economic growth in the region.
