Hello and welcome to Yahoo’s live news blog this Thursday. While Qantas continues efforts to rebuild trust with customers, business is booming for its recently-acquired travel company that has ramped up its cruise offerings to Aussies. Find out more below.
Wildfires continue to threaten homes in California’s LA, where 1,000 structures have been lost. The fires, which have hit some of the city’s wealthiest suburbs, is its most destructive fire on record.
Follow along as we bring you regular updates throughout the day.
Live3 updates
- Thu 9 January 2025 at 4:13 am GMT+5:30
Qantas joins in on booming travel industry
Qantas is taking significant strides into the cruise industry thanks to a recent acquisition.
Australia’s flag carrier last year bought out the remaining stake in travel company TripADeal last year and has now significantly ramped up its cruise offerings, The Australian reported.
Its number of bookings has surged by 70 per cent, with customers offered the incentive of Qantas points with their purchases.
“We’re seeing a real surge in cruise bookings, particularly among younger Australians, so this expansion is about offering greater choice and tapping into that growing demand,” TripADeal chief executive Matt Wolfenden said.
- Thu 9 January 2025 at 4:09 am GMT+5:30
US actor breaks down on live TV after losing home
US actor James Woods broke down live on CNN as he spoke about losing his home in the devastating wildfires that have rocked LA.
“One day you’re swimming in the pool and the next day it’s all gone,” Woods said as she struggled to hold off tears, putting his hands to his face.
Woods has documented the fire on his X account, saying losing everything has “tested” his soul.
For live coverage of the fires, visit Yahoo US here.
James Woods broke down in tears as he recalled losing his home to the devastating fires. Source: CNN
- Thu 9 January 2025 at 3:58 am GMT+5:30
Offer to make Aussie truckies go electric
Truckies on our roads could soon be turning electric after Anthony Albanese’s latest offer to the industry.
The PM is giving $50m in a push to get truck companies and farmers using EVs, with the money used to subsidise loans on vehicles.
“Australian motorists deserve more choices of cleaner, cheaper-to-run cars and that’s exactly what the Albanese government is delivering,” Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said in a statement.
The scheme would reduce the interest payments for those taking up the offer, with a $1,700 saving for a vehicle priced at $60,000.
Read more here.
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