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September 24, 2025

News to Know


Super Typhoon Ragasa Grounds Hundreds of Flights Leaving Tens of Thousands Stranded Across Asia
(SOURCE: EURO NEWS)

Hundreds of flights have been grounded and tens of thousands of passengers left stranded as Super Typhoon Ragasa moves over Asia.

It has been dubbed the "King of Storms" by China's meteorological agency and is the equivalent of a Category 5 hurricane. It is believed to be the most powerful storm the world has seen this year.

The typhoon will make landfall between the cities of Zhuhai and Zhanjiang in Guangdong on Wednesday afternoon or evening, China's National Meteorological Centre has said.

 
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AVIATION

Chinese Airlines Are Reportedly Close to Ordering 500 Boeing Aircraft (SIMPLE FLYING)

SAS to Add Air France Code to Transatlantic Flights (BTN EUROPE)

United Airlines Flights Grounded Nationwide for 30 Minutes Due to 'Connectivity Issue' (NBC NEWS)

HOSPITALITY

Google’s Agentic AI Takes Aim at Hospitality (HOSPITALITY TODAY)

GROUND TRANSPORTATION

US Rail Travel Booms: Ridership Up 20% Amid Investments (WEB PRO NEWS)

Amex GBT Expands Rail Travel Partnership (THE BUSINESS TRAVEL MAGAZINE)

SUSTAINABILITY

Finnair Launches Alternative Fuels Platform for Corporate Clients (BTN EUROPE)

Sponsored  
OTHER SECTORS

IRS Keeps Per Diem Rates Unchanged for Business Travel Year Starting October 1 (JOURNAL OF ACCOUNTANCY)

Industry Spotlight


 

GBTA Ladders
GBTA Ladders Season 12 Applications Close Soon

Team-based mentoring | Apply before September 26

🎤"Ladders was once the industry's best kept secret. Now it’s widely regarded as the go-to mentoring program for our finest talent, whether you're up and coming or a seasoned pro." – Dan Humby, Vice President, Global Sales at Groups360.

Ready to build your own success story? GBTA Ladders Season 12 applications are now open for mentees, alumni advisors, and committee members worldwide. But don’t miss, the window closes on September 26. Learn more and apply today!

 
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September GBTA Volunteer of the Month



Brenda Davis
Executive Assistant and Travel Manager
International SOS

Brenda Davis is an accomplished Executive Assistant and Travel Manager with over 30 years of experience supporting C-suite executives and more than 13 years leading corporate travel operations across North America. At International SOS, she provides direct support to the CEO and CCO of the North America region, while managing travel policy, vendor relationships, and logistics across multiple business units.

Brenda has successfully planned and executed high-profile events and conferences globally, overseeing large budgets and coordinating accommodations up to 200+ VIPs. She plays a pivotal role in cross-functional collaboration, aligning executive agendas and facilitating strategic meetings with department heads. Her expertise extends to managing key travel partnerships, refining travel policies, training new employees, and leveraging data to drive cost efficiency and operational improvements. Brenda stays at the forefront of industry trends through active engagement with professional committees.

She currently serves as Chair of the GBTA Meetings & Events Committee and remains an active member of SITE Northeast, where she previously served on the board for three years—including terms as CSR VP and VP of Events.

Known for her strategic mindset, attention to detail, and ability to make complex travel and event planning seamless, Brenda brings a collaborative and solutions-focused approach to every project.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family.

 
Learn More
 

Do you know a GBTA Volunteer who should be recognized for their contributions to our industry? Submit your nomination here.

Take Time to Recognize Outstanding GBTA Volunteers
GBTA volunteers are at the heart of how we make things happen in the association and for the industry. From committee participants to convention ambassadors and more, GBTA members graciously dedicate their time, efforts and expertise for the betterment of all. It’s time to recognize them for their contributions, view the 2024 recap and nominate today.

   

Resources


Crisis24 Intelligence Brief

Asia - Typhoon Ragasa tracking westward in South China Sea early Sept. 24. Landfall likely over southwestern Guangdong, China, late Sept. 24.

Greece - Unionized workers plan multisector strike nationwide in Greece, Oct. 1. Transport, maritime, public service disruptions likely.

Philippines - Typhoon-related disruptions ongoing across parts of the Philippines late Sept. 23. Damage and flooding reported, flight disruptions ongoing.

United States - Severe weather forecast across parts of the South, US, through early Sept. 24. Tornadoes possible.  

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