AIR INDIA EXPRESS
Air India CEO targets lower costs, higher passenger yields to steer airline towards profitability
Air India CEO Tewolde Gebremariam said the airline is working to reduce operating costs and improve passenger yields as it pursues a financial turnaround. The plan includes bringing unit costs in line with industry levels, restructuring its Delhi network, expanding international flights from Mumbai and exploring Bengaluru as a third hub.
Airlines seek govt support to protect Mumbai Airport slots
Airlines at Mumbai airport are urging civil aviation ministry intervention regarding proposed capacity reductions planned for next April. Operator Mumbai International Airport Ltd intends to shift part of its international flight schedule to Navi Mumbai International Airport. While some airlines have consented to the changes, others seek more time to adapt to the new airport's infrastructure.
Severe Cyclone Murasu: 19 flights cancelled across 3 Andhra airports
Severe cyclonic storm Murasu is expected to impact Andhra Pradesh, resulting in significant flight cancellations. At least 19 domestic flights have been canceled across Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam airports. Major airlines such as IndiGo and Air India Express have announced several flight cancellations. The storm is anticipated to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast during the night between November 2 and November 3.
Air India Express flight crew's lapse probably led to runway incursion at Goa airport in April this year: AAIB
Air India Express flight crew failed to follow air traffic controller instructions during an incident at Dabolim airport. A Navy fighter jet was taking off when the Air India plane misinterpreted communication, leading to a runway incursion. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau highlighted the need for improved communication procedures among air traffic controllers. Recommendations include crew counseling and better training for personnel involved in the incident.
India's domestic air traffic fell 8.3% in September as demand remained under pressure: IATA
In September, India's domestic air traffic declined by 8.3% year-on-year, marking a significant drop. This decrease was the steepest observed in 2026 so far, according to IATA. The demand for air travel faced pressure due to rising fuel prices and weaker economic conditions. Capacity contracted by 7.9% during the same period, leading to a slight dip in Passenger Load Factor. Overall, domestic traffic fell by 2.
Air India, AI Express extend cancellation of Saudi Arabia flights till November 14
Air India and Air India Express have extended the cancellation of flights to Saudi Arabian cities until November 14. IndiGo and Akasa Air also suspended their flights to these destinations amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Passengers with confirmed bookings can rebook or opt for a full refund. The situation in West Asia has affected infrastructure facilities, including airports. Continual monitoring of the region's conditions remains essential for all airlines and passengers.
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Air India Express denies boarding to woman & 3-year-old on confirmed flight; Court orders Rs 70,000 payout plus interest
A consumer commission in Kerala has directed Air India Express to pay Rs 70,000 to a woman and her three-year-old son after they were denied boarding on a confirmed Kochi-Abu Dhabi flight in 2021. The airline must also refund Rs 20,287 with 9% interest after the passengers were forced to buy fresh tickets to Sharjah.
Foreign airlines, Adani Airports deadlocked over Mumbai Airport shift
A meeting between Adani Airports that controls both Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports and foreign carriers ended without an agreement after around 90 minutes of discussions. About 50 executives representing almost all the 45 airlines in Mumbai's Airline Operators' Committee attended the meeting, people familiar with the matter said. Airlines sought further details before committing to the move.
Akasa Air hikes pilots' salaries by up to 15% to retain them
The revised pay structure will take effect January 1, 2027, with fixed monthly salaries increasing across all eight pilot grades, from first officers to designated examiners.
Mumbai airport operator MIAL, airlines discuss transition plan for international flights
Representatives from over 35 airlines met with Mumbai airport officials to discuss shifting international flights. The Mumbai International Airport Ltd requested airlines to submit their transition plans by November 3. Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air will begin transitioning operations to Navi Mumbai International Airport in December. The partial relocation aims to allow renovation work at Terminal 1 in Mumbai airport to progress.
Ministry of Civil Aviation reviews Cyclone 'Arnab' situation, operational readiness
Cyclonic Storm Arnab is expected to intensify as it approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28. The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has organized a meeting to ensure aviation safety during this period. Flights to and from coastal regions, including Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Rajahmundry, are facing significant disruptions. Airlines have been advised to assist passengers and adhere to operational guidelines amid adverse weather.
Cyclone Arnab tracker: Storm makes landfall in Andhra Pradesh with winds up to 185 kmph, thousands evacuated; airline advisory issued
Cyclone Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast early Wednesday after triggering mass evacuations and disrupting transport. Officials reported strong winds, heavy rainfall, turbulent seas and a risk of storm surges in low-lying coastal areas. Authorities issued flash flood alerts across 15 districts, while flight cancellations and precautionary restrictions affected parts of the state.
Cyclone prompts cancellation of 21 flights at Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam airports
A very severe cyclonic storm named Cyclone Arnab is impacting Andhra Pradesh's flight schedules. At Vijayawada airport, several flights have been cancelled, affecting services to major destinations. Visakhapatnam airport also faced significant cancellations due to the approaching cyclone. The Indian Meteorological Department reported the cyclone is expected to cross the coast by Wednesday morning. Precautionary measures and evacuations are being implemented to safeguard the public and property.
Air India launches direct Toronto-Mumbai flights with upgraded cabins
Air India will launch seasonal flights from Mumbai to Toronto starting this October, with three weekly operations. This new service represents a significant increase in capacity between India and Canada by 4,400 monthly seats. The airline will upgrade existing Toronto flights to new Boeing 787-9 aircraft by January 2027. Passengers can enjoy enhanced cabin products, including First Class and Business Class options.
Air India Express connects Mangaluru with Ras Al Khaimah
Mangaluru International Airport initiated direct flights to Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE with Air India Express. The inaugural flight left with 146 passengers, demonstrating strong demand for this new route. Air India Express will operate this service twice a week on Mondays and Saturdays. The airport now connects to nine international destinations and six domestic sectors.
Air India Express introduces new direct flights from Kochi to Bangkok four times a week
Air India Express has launched direct flights between Kochi and Bangkok from October 25, 2026. The service will operate four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from Kochi, with return flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The route is part of the airline’s expanded Winter Schedule 2026, which includes new international connections from Kerala.
IndiGo, Air India Group to shift 133 weekly flights to Navi Mumbai Airport
IndiGo and Air India Group will shift multiple international flights to Navi Mumbai airport in upcoming months. This transition impacts nearly three million passengers each year, correlating with Mumbai airport's redevelopment plans. IndiGo plans to move 12 daily international services while introducing new routes to Kathmandu. Air India Express will begin operating domestic flights from the new airport later this year.
IndiGo, Air India Group to shift flights to Navi Mumbai airport ahead of Mumbai T1 redevelopment
IndiGo and Air India Group will gradually transition their flight operations to Navi Mumbai International Airport. This shift is scheduled to begin in December 2026 and will continue until mid-2027. The airlines aim to free up capacity at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for new international routes. IndiGo plans to connect passengers between domestic and international services at NMIA.
Indian Embassy in UAE discontinues four consular application centres
Four Indian Consular Application Centres in the UAE ceased operations from October 22 due to administrative issues. The Indian Embassy confirmed that services will still be available at 12 remaining centres. Locations that were discontinued include Musaffah and Al Reem in Abu Dhabi, as well as others in Sharjah and Dubai. Services at the remaining centres will continue to be managed by Al Hind Tours & Travels.
'Abide by local laws': Indian Embassy advises nationals against filming missile interceptions in Saudi Arabia
India has advised its nationals in Saudi Arabia to follow local laws and avoid sharing sensitive information. The warning is due to increased tensions following drone and missile attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Air India flights to Saudi Arabia continue to be suspended for an extended period affecting many travelers. The Indian Embassy is offering assistance to affected citizens while coordinating with local authorities.
Riyadh Airport announces resumption of operations at T1, T2 following closure after Houthi attacks
Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport will resume operations from Terminals 1 and 2 on October 25, issuing a travel advisory amid Houthi claims of attacks on Saudi airports and energy infrastructure. Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah for specified periods, offering refunds or rebooking.
Air India and Air India Express extends Riyadh, Dammam flight suspensions until November 7
Air India and Air India Express have prolonged the suspension of flights to Saudi Arabia, with operations to Riyadh and Dammam on hold until November 7. Meanwhile, Jeddah flights are canceled until October 31. Passengers may elect to rebook flexibly or receive a complete refund, along with complimentary rebooking on available operational routes, adhering to specific timelines.
Air India, Air India Express extend Saudi flight suspension until November 7
Air India and Air India Express have postponed flights to Riyadh and Dammam until early November. IndiGo and Akasa Air also cancelled their services to various Saudi cities during this period. Affected passengers, including Umrah pilgrims, are receiving assistance from Indian diplomatic missions for accommodation and other needs. In response to security alerts, the Saudi authorities confirmed a danger that has since passed.
IndiGo extends Saudi Arabia flight cancellations; Riyadh services suspended till Oct 31
IndiGo has extended the suspension of flights to several cities in Saudi Arabia amid ongoing security concerns. Other airlines, including Akasa Air and Air India, have also announced similar flight cancellations. The affected passengers are being notified through the contact details they provided during booking. Airlines are offering options for refunds or rescheduling without additional costs for affected passengers.
Cheaper air tickets may remain a distant dream for Indian flyers
Indian flyers may have to wait longer for airfare relief after the festive season as elevated aviation turbine fuel prices, rupee depreciation and West Asian conflict-related disruptions keep costs high. ICRA expects fares to remain elevated in the near term, with sustained relief depending on lower fuel prices and improved capacity availability.
Air India and Standard Chartered offer Maharaja Club status to eligible clients in the UAE and Singapore
Air India has announced a partnership with Standard Chartered to enhance services for affluent clients. Eligible clients in Singapore and the UAE will gain access to the Maharaja Club loyalty program. Members can enjoy various travel benefits, including additional baggage allowance and airport lounge access. The partnership also aims to provide dedicated banking and wealth management services for international needs.
Air India Express flight from Bhogapuram to Bengaluru reports bird strike, lands safely
An Air India Express flight from Bhogapuram to Bengaluru reported a bird strike during its journey. The flight, which was carrying 148 passengers, landed safely at Kempegowda International Airport. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported among any passengers or crew members. Following the incident, technical teams inspected the aircraft as part of standard safety procedures.
Air India Express flight from Vizag to Bengaluru suffers bird strike
Air India Express flight IX2065 experienced a bird strike while en route to Bengaluru and landed safely. All 148 passengers and crew members were unharmed during the incident on Tuesday. Ground engineers conducted inspections on the aircraft following standard safety procedures and found no injuries reported. In a separate incident, an Air India flight experienced a hijack scare but was cleared for takeoff after a thorough evaluation.
Delhi-bound Emirates flight hit by bird strike, Dubai return delayed till October 18; hotel stay arranged for affected passengers
An Emirates flight from Delhi to Dubai has been delayed until October 18 after the aircraft encountered a bird strike on arrival in the national capital. Separately, Air India and Air India Express have extended the suspension of flights to Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam until October 24 amid the security situation in West Asia, offering eligible passengers complimentary date changes.
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