AIR TRAVELLERS
Air travel in India has become inclusive than being exclusive, says Prime Minister Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the growing inclusivity of air travel in India, with more people from smaller cities flying. He announced the Delhi Declaration for regional cooperation in civil aviation and proposed an international Buddhist tourist circuit. Modi also discussed advancements like air taxis and India's plans to become a global aviation hub.
Regional air connectivity scheme made air travel inclusive, says Prime Minister Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the growth of India's civil aviation sector, noting that air travel has become more inclusive through the UDAN scheme. Speaking at the Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation, he emphasized the sector's role in job creation and mentioned plans for advanced air mobility and air taxis.
India's first luxurious tarmac coach by Air India SATS launched for business class travellers
Air India SATS Airport Services Private Limited has introduced India's first luxury tarmac coaches for First and Business Class passengers at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. These electric coaches, designed for comfort with premium amenities, aim to enhance the travel experience while promoting eco-friendly operations.
UDAAN scheme to continue for 10 more years: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced the extension of the UDAN scheme for ten more years, aiming to enhance regional air connectivity. The scheme has already benefitted over 1.4 crore passengers and operated 2.8 lakh flights. The government plans to develop 350-400 airports in the next 20-25 years, making air travel more accessible and affordable.
Civil aviation minister pitches for sustainable aviation practices, regional air connectivity
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu emphasized sustainable practices in aviation, including using sustainable aviation fuel. The ministry aims to develop 106 airports for regional connectivity and blend 1% SAF with jet fuel by 2027. The UDAN scheme will be extended for 10 more years to boost regional air travel.
Air India unveils 'vista verve' in airbus A350-900 for Delhi-London Heathrow route under the 'new Air India experience' initiative
Air India has introduced its new Airbus A350-900 on the Delhi-London Heathrow route, operational twice daily. This move is part of the airline's 'new Air India' initiative to enhance passenger experience. Replacing Boeing 777-300ER and 787-8 Dreamliner on 14 of 17 weekly flights, it marks a significant upgrade in service quality.
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Air taxis to rule skies soon, revolutionise urban travel: Nikhil Goel, Archer Aviation
Nikhil Goel said that India's civil aviation regulator DGCA is also supportive to frame policies on air taxis. "We have been working with Interglobe for more than over the last year, and together we've started to analyze routes across some of India's largest cities. We see tremendous, not only potential, but support from everybody we meet, whether it's with municipal leaders, federal government and regulators," Goel said.
Vistara operations to end November 12; Air India to manage all flights
Vistara announced on Friday that from November 12, Air India will take over its aircraft and passengers as the merger of the Tata Group-owned airlines nears completion. Starting September 3, Vistara bookings for travel post-November 12 will be redirected to Air India. Singapore Airlines, which holds a 49% stake in Vistara, has received approval to acquire a 25.1% stake in Air India, with the merger expected by year-end. This consolidation aims to strengthen the combined entity's position in India’s aviation market.
You can fly 'Vistara' only till November 11 as merger with Air India closes in on runway
Vistara Air India Merger Update: Following Vistara's merger with Air India, passengers can book tickets until September 3 for flights until November 11, 2024. After November 12, all Vistara flights will be under Air India. The airlines will ensure smooth transition and regular updates for customers during this period.
Vistara-Air India Merger: Final FDI approval expected soon, merger likely after Diwali
Vistara's merger into Air India is all set to secure Singapore Airlines' FDI approval for a 25.1% stake. With Tata Group retaining 74.9%, the merger is set to occur around November 1 to sidestep potential travel disruptions during the festive season.
Struck by wanderlust, Indians queue up to explore Europe in non-traditional seasons; visa delays expected
Post-summer, Indian travelers saw a substantial increase in European visa applications, resulting in extended wait times. High interest in viewing the Northern Lights further fueled this trend. Thomas Cook and Air India expanded services, introducing special tours and increasing flight frequencies to cater to rising travel demands from India to Europe.
Air India announced additional flights to Kolkata to cater to festive rush
Air India has announced additional flights to Kolkata from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai during the Durga Puja season to meet rising travel demand. These flights are introduced to offer travelers more convenience and seamless connections via major hubs to various international destinations including the United States, Canada, UK, and Australia.
Air India announces more flights to Kolkata to handle Durga Puja rush
Air India will operate additional flights to Kolkata from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi to meet the increased travel demand during Durga Puja. Starting from September 20, the services will enhance the frequency and convenience for travellers aiming to visit their loved ones during the festive season.
Rakesh Jhunjhunwala's lofty bet has grown fourfold: What lies ahead
In 2021, Vinay Dube launched Akasa Air, backed by investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. Despite initial losses, the airline's valuation has grown to $350 million. Akasa has expanded its fleet rapidly, overtaking SpiceJet in market share, and is now seeking $125 million in new investments from Premji Invest and Claypond Capital for further growth.
Japan Airlines to enhance air connectivity on Tokyo-Bengaluru route
Japan Airlines will increase flights from Tokyo to Bengaluru to five per week starting late October, up from three, due to rising demand. Currently, JAL is the sole carrier offering direct flights from Bangalore, using Boeing B787-8 aircraft. This expansion aims to enhance connectivity and support regional economic growth, as noted by BIAL's COO.
What is IndiGo's 'Cute Fee' on flight tickets? Airline responds after flyer asks if he is 'cute'
Advocate Shrayansh Singh’s social media post questioning IndiGo Airlines’ "Cute Fee" has sparked a lively debate online. Singh humorously asked if the fee was for being “cute” or if it reflected the airline’s view of its planes. IndiGo explained that the "Cute Fee" refers to charges for using airport equipment like metal detectors and escalators. Singh challenged this explanation, arguing such costs should be covered by taxes rather than additional passenger fees.
Airfares climb up to 25% for Diwali, Onam festival season travel
Analysis by ixigo revealed an increase in airfare by 10-25% on major routes for Diwali and Onam. Delhi-Chennai flights saw a 25% rise, while Mumbai-Hyderabad fares increased by 21%. Meanwhile, fares on some routes, like Mumbai-Udaipur, dropped by up to 27%. Travel demand remains high, impacting ticket prices.
Bengaluru woman slams Air India for cancelling US flight 'arbitrarily'
A Bengaluru woman shared her experience of Air India canceling her Delhi-San Francisco flight without notice. Passengers were offered alternative options, including a long layover. Regulations mandate timely alternatives or refunds, but proper measures were not taken. She expressed frustration over the lack of empathy and assistance from the airline, leading to complaints.
Microsoft CrowdStrike: How the massive outage is affecting flights and services in India and beyond
A global Microsoft outage has severely impacted air travel, causing significant delays and operational challenges at major airports, including those in Delhi and Bengaluru. Airlines are forced to manually check in passengers and issue handwritten boarding passes. The Indian Civil Aviation Minister has called for patience and cooperation from passengers while airlines and authorities work to resolve the disruptions. The issue stems from a technical problem with Microsoft 365 apps.
Air India ties up with The Bicester Collection for loyalty programme
Air India has partnered with The Bicester Collection for its revamped Flying Returns loyalty program, allowing members to earn points at luxury shopping villages across Western Europe. The move aims to cater to Indian travelers' growing interest in luxury shopping globally. The collaboration enhances Air India's loyalty offerings amidst its broader transformation strategy.
Passenger traffic at Mumbai Airport rises 7 pc to 13.46 mn in Jun qtr
Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) reported a 7% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic, reaching 13.46 million in the June quarter of FY 2024. The airport handled 3.7 million international and 9.7 million domestic travelers. Domestic air traffic movements (ATMs) rose to 59,775, and international ATMs to 21,519. Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad were the top domestic destinations, while Dubai, Singapore, and London led international travel. IndiGo dominated the domestic market with a 50% share, handling 4.99 million passengers. The Middle East remained the busiest international region.
Air India Express launches platform with MakeMyTrip for booking flights, accommodation, transport
Tata Group's Air India Express introduced 'Xpress Holidays' with MakeMyTrip, enabling bookings for flights, accommodation, and transport. The service includes international destinations, airport transfers, cab pick-ups, guided tours, and exclusive deals, available on the airline's website and app. Chief Commercial Officer Ankur Garg and Saujanya Shrivastava emphasized the MakeMyTrip fulfillment promise.
Regional airports found wind beneath their wings in FY24
India's hinterland air travel surged last year, driven by civil aviation ministry data and government schemes. Airports like Diu, Pantnagar, Tezpur, and Prayagraj saw significant growth, boosted by the Udan scheme and low fares. IndiGo and other airlines expanded services, with CFO Gaurav Negi highlighting the importance of regional routes for broader networks.
Air India selects IBS Software's iCargo platform to support expansion of its cargo operations
Air India and IBS Software revolutionize air cargo operations, setting new industry standards and propelling growth with cutting-edge technology.
Akasa Air to start flying to Abu Dhabi from Jul 11
Akasa Air started international services with flights to Doha in March. It has also announced flights to Jeddah and Riyadh. It also has traffic rights for Kuwait, and Medina.
Flying windows, fatal turbulence: Is flying in planes safe right now? Here is how to understand disruptions
Air travel disruptions, from minor mechanical issues to severe incidents, often cause anxiety but are rarely dangerous. Aviation experts stress that these problems are usually manageable due to rigorous safety protocols and backup systems, ensuring that flying remains one of the safest modes of transportation despite occasional alarming events.
India a big aviation market; good to have stronger Lufthansa-Air India partnership: Star Alliance CEO
CEO Theo Panagiotoulias highlights the importance of a strong partnership between Air India and Lufthansa within the Star Alliance to offer a unique value proposition for passengers in the Indian aviation market.
Airport industry's pre-tax profit to grow 35% in FY25, CAPA India says
India's airport industry is expected to see a 35% rise in pre-tax profit for fiscal year 2025, driven by strong demand for air travel, as estimated by aviation consultancy CAPA India.
Air India ties up with Delhi Metro, DIAL to facilitate check-in for international passengers
Air India on Tuesday said it has partnered with Delhi Metro and Delhi airport to facilitate check-in for international air passengers at two metro stations in Delhi. The check-in and baggage drop facility at the Delhi airport allows passengers to check in their baggage at the metro station, giving the outstation travellers the option to explore the city baggage-free.
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