Airlines / Aviation
Air India crash: UK families await update on DNA-matched remains
Families of the Air India 171 crash victims are waiting for DNA confirmation. This follows discussions between India and the UK about misidentified remains. Keystone Law urges urgency in the process. Reports suggest some remains may be in India. A preliminary report indicates fuel cutoff after takeoff. Families seek clarity on the cockpit voice recorder data.
Want relaxed air travel? Pet a puppy at Hyderabad Airport
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad has launched a "Therapy Dog Program" to improve passenger experience. Four well-trained Toy Poodles, accompanied by handlers, are stationed in departure areas to ease travel anxiety and uplift moods. The initiative, currently in its early stages, has received positive feedback, with passengers appreciating the calming presence of the dogs.
Alaska Airlines crew sues Boeing over 737 MAX blowout, cites trauma and negligence
Four Alaska Airlines flight attendants are suing Boeing. They cite physical and emotional injuries from the January 2023 incident. A cabin panel blew out mid-air on a 737 MAX 9 plane. The attendants seek compensation for economic damages. They accuse Boeing of negligence in production and repair. The incident sparked investigations and criticism of Boeing's safety culture.
British Indian hotelier Surinder Arora in race to expand Heathrow Airport
Surinder Arora, a prominent British Indian hotelier, has unveiled his "Heathrow West" proposal to expand Heathrow Airport, aiming for a fully operational third runway by 2035. Developed with Bechtel, the plan promises a cost-efficient solution, simpler construction, and earlier delivery of new terminal capacity.
India-origin Nikhil Ravishankar set to pilot Air New Zealand as CEO
Nikhil Ravishankar, of India origin, is poised to become the CEO of Air New Zealand in October 2025, bringing with him five years of experience with the airline. Air New Zealand and Air India are also set to enhance connectivity, exploring direct flights by 2028 and establishing a codeshare partnership across 16 routes.
AI Express passenger inadvertently flies to Bhubaneswar; airline probes
An Air India Express passenger, initially destined for Delhi, mistakenly remained on the same aircraft and flew to Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. The airline has launched an internal investigation to determine how this occurred and to reinforce standard operating procedures. The incident came to light when the passenger alerted the crew about the error.
Delhi HC dismisses Turkish-based Celebi's plea against revocation of security clearance
The Delhi High Court rejected Celebi Ground Handling India's appeal. The appeal challenged the central government's choice to revoke its security clearance. Justice Tejas Karia noted similar pleas were previously dismissed. Earlier, the court dismissed pleas from other Turkish-based Celebi firms. These firms contested the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security's revocation of their security clearance.
Insurance premium for aircraft expected to go up, says IndiGo CEO
IndiGo anticipates a rise in aircraft insurance premiums due to geopolitical factors, inflation, and accidents. CEO Pieter Elbers mentioned ongoing discussions to finalize the premium amount. Despite challenges like airspace restrictions, IndiGo reported a profit decline in the June quarter. The airline is addressing grounded aircraft issues and monitoring the impact of US tariffs on Indian goods.
Air India tops in serious safety lapses flagged by DGCA
Air India group reported the highest number of serious safety lapses among Indian airlines in DGCA’s annual audit, with seven critical Level 1 findings, raising concerns about its Tata-led overhaul. Vistara had ten such findings before its merger, while Air India Express had two. In total, DGCA flagged 263 issues across eight airlines, intensifying regulatory scrutiny amid India's aviation growth.
DGCA flags 263 safety lapses across airlines; Air India, Vistara lead in serious violations
India’s aviation regulator DGCA found 263 safety-related lapses across airlines in its annual audit. Air India had 51 issues, IndiGo 23, and Air India Express 25. The lapses include training gaps and unapproved simulators. The DGCA noted 19 were significant "Level I" breaches. Audits align with global standards, and larger airlines tend to have more findings.
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DGCA audit lists around 100 violations, observations related to Air India
Air India faces scrutiny after a DGCA audit reveals about 100 violations. These include critical safety risks related to training and crew management. The airline acknowledges the findings and promises corrective action. This follows earlier notices and personnel changes due to safety concerns. A recent fatal plane crash in Ahmedabad is under investigation.
Singapore Tourism Board signs pact with IndiGo to boost tourism and travel
The Singapore Tourism Board and IndiGo have partnered to promote tourism between Singapore and India, capitalizing on strong visitor numbers. This year-long agreement aims to leverage IndiGo's network to boost travel to Singapore, especially as India remains a top tourism source. IndiGo will also introduce its business class offering on key routes, enhancing connectivity and catering to growing demand.
Delhi weather alert: More rain likely till August 3; IGI Airport, airlines issue travel delay advisories
Delhi is experiencing heavy rainfall. This has led to traffic congestion and potential flight delays. Indira Gandhi International Airport advises passengers to expect disruptions. Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India have issued weather advisories. The India Meteorological Department forecasts more rain. Residents are urged to stay safe and avoid waterlogged areas.
The world’s biggest passenger planes keep breaking down
The Airbus A380, despite a resurgence in popularity post-pandemic, faces escalating maintenance costs and a growing number of airworthiness directives. Airlines committed to the superjumbo are struggling with its complexity and strained supply chains, leading to delays and operational challenges. While passengers appreciate its size, the A380's upkeep is becoming increasingly burdensome for operators.
Shop till you fly: Delhi airport retail spend can save user fees
Good news for Delhi flyers. User fees at Indira Gandhi International Airport might vanish by 2035. Increased shopping and dining by passengers are boosting non-aeronautical revenue. This revenue subsidizes passenger charges. Current non-aero activities generate 57% of the airport's income. Recent revisions saw international UDF rise. However, domestic fees remain unchanged. Continued spending could lead to zero user fees.
DGCA begins action against Air India for lapse in plane's emergency slide check
Following an audit, the DGCA discovered that Air India had an aircraft flying with an overdue emergency slide inspection, prompting immediate grounding of the plane. The aviation regulator has initiated enforcement action against Air India and responsible personnel, in response to the safety violation.
