AIR INDIA EXPRESS MERGER
Air India losses narrow, but Singapore Airlines’ profit falls 44% as fuel costs rise
In its latest financial report, Singapore Airlines announced a net profit of S$134 million for the first half, down from S$239 million in the same period last year. The airline faced a more than 20% rise in expenses, driven by higher jet fuel prices that reached US$171 per barrel, marking an 86.7% increase. Nevertheless, revenue saw a boost of 16.8% to S$11.
Things will be known at appropriate time: Sunetra Pawar on NCP merger talks
Maharashtra Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar addressed questions regarding the possible merger of two NCP factions. She stated that further details would be revealed in due time. Several leaders recently met Sharad Pawar, increasing speculation about the merger. The government will celebrate the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda with various programs across the state. Service weeks and health awareness camps are planned, highlighting the importance of the occasion.
Qualcomm initiates India layoffs: Here’s how much employees will get in severance
Qualcomm has begun implementing planned job cuts globally, affecting employees in India and the US (in California).
Delhi AQI today: Air quality improves to 'poor' category, no station records 'severe' levels; check IMD weather forecast and other details
Delhi air pollution news: Air quality in Delhi showed improvement as the AQI dropped below 300 on Wednesday. The city had been experiencing very poor and severe air quality previously. Data from 59 monitoring stations indicated that 29 stations recorded very poor levels. An increase in wind speed is anticipated to lead to further improvement in air quality.
CM Devendra Fadnavis says no flights will shift from Mumbai to Navi Mumbai airport; opposes proposed relocation of international services and suggests an alternative plan for Terminal 1 redevelopment
Mumbai airport news: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is opposing plans to shift international flights from Mumbai airport to Navi Mumbai airport. He communicated with the union civil aviation minister regarding an alternative redevelopment proposal for Terminal 1. This plan aims to keep the existing terminal operational during its replacement construction. The Airports Authority of India holds a minority stake in Mumbai airport, while Adani Airport Holdings Ltd is the majority stakeholder.
Pakistan blames India's Diwali fireworks for Lahore's toxic air
The northern Pakistani city of Lahore topped Swiss group IQAir's ranking of the world's most polluted major cities for a second day on Tuesday, with an air quality index (AQI) of 263, categorised as "very unhealthy".
- Go To Page 1

Air India shortlists former Singapore Airlines executive Balagopal Kunduvara for CFO role
Air India has shortlisted former Singapore Airlines executive Balagopal Kunduvara for the CFO role as the airline steps up efforts to cut costs and improve financial performance. Kunduvara, who recently left his position as finance chief at Garuda Indonesia, has over two decades of experience at Singapore Airlines. The carrier reported losses of more than Rs 22,000 crore in the last financial year.

NCP merger decision rests with Sharad Pawar, Sunetra; neither has told us anything yet: CM Fadnavis
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that only Sharad Pawar and Sunetra Pawar could clarify any merger plans. He noted that neither had informed the BJP about a potential merger of the two NCP factions. Fadnavis compared Sunetra Pawar’s leadership to that of her late husband, Ajit Pawar, declaring it unfair. He expressed confidence in river-linking projects helping eliminate drought in Maharashtra over time.

Air India considers departed Garuda CFO for top finance position
Most recently, Kunduvara was finance chief for Garuda Indonesia, a position he recently left after holding the job for little more than a year. Prior to that, he spent more than two decades at Singapore Airlines, which is a partial owner of Air India alongside conglomerate Tata Group.

Delhi AQI today: National captial's air quality improves but remains in 'very poor' category; check IMD weather forecast and other details
Delhi pollution latest news: Delhi experienced marginal improvement in air quality as AQI levels decreased after Diwali celebrations. The Air Quality Index recorded a reading of 304 at one point, down from earlier figures. Despite this, pollution remained in the 'very poor' category according to the Central Pollution Control Board. The government's emergency action plan continues to be enforced to tackle rising pollution levels.

How to protect yourself from rising air pollution and smog: 6 practical tips and guide to choosing the right air purifier
Rising air pollution and smog affect daily life in India, particularly during winter months. Taking precautions such as wearing masks can help mitigate exposure to polluted air. Keeping windows and doors closed is essential during times of severe pollution. Regular home cleaning and avoiding indoor burning can improve indoor air quality effectively. Choosing the right air purifier involves considering room size, filter costs, and energy consumption.

Tenneco India explores diversifying beyond auto sector, eyes M&A
Tenneco Clean Air India is exploring acquisitions to diversify beyond the automotive sector, with potential targets in railways, aerospace and defence. CEO Arvind Chandra said the debt-free company has the cash to fund sizeable deals and is seeking businesses with strong technology, margins and an India growth opportunity.

Congress slams Modi govt for being in 'denial' on impact of air pollution on mortality
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh condemned the Modi government for denying air pollution's significant mortality impact. He referred to a FICCI-EY report indicating around 2 million death cases linked to pollution in 2023. The report urges reforms like tightening PM2.5 and ozone standards to WHO levels for better public health. Ramesh emphasized the need for revamping the National Clean Air Programme to address these alarming issues.

Delhi AQI at 3,000 or 300? Why different apps are showing different pollution levels
Delhi's air pollution readings have sparked confusion as government and independent monitoring platforms report sharply different AQI figures, ranging from the 300s to over 3,000. Differences in AQI calculation methods, averaging periods, monitoring networks and sensor technology explain why apps show varying numbers. Here's why Delhi's AQI readings differ and how PM2.5 levels can provide a clearer picture of air pollution.

BJP says Sharad Pawar, Sunetra Pawar to decide on NCP merger
BJP is engaging in discussions regarding the potential merger of the two Nationalist Congress Party factions. Rohit Pawar has dismissed any possibility of a reunion, while Sunetra Pawar, the current NCP president, remains silent. BJP leaders such as Pravin Darekar believe that only Sharad Pawar and Sunetra Pawar can decide on the merger.

Delhi AQI today: National capital’s air continues to remain toxic, AQI crosses 400 at over 22 stations; check IMD weather forecast and AQI
Delhi air pollution news: Delhi is experiencing a serious decline in air quality with an AQI reading of 365. As Diwali approaches, pollution levels may increase due to firecracker use and stubble burning. The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented stage three measures to manage air quality. Forecasts indicate continued poor air quality, likely reaching severe levels from November 7 to 9.

SC questions recurring Delhi-NCR pollution, flags vehicle emissions as major contributor
The Supreme Court has raised concerns over recurring air pollution in Delhi-NCR, identifying vehicular emissions as a major contributor and questioning why the AQI continues to approach 400 despite regulatory measures. The bench also called for changes in festival practices and economic incentives to discourage stubble burning.

Pakistan more loyal to China than the dragon is to itself: Brahma Chellaney highlights curious case of Taiwan airline ban and a u-turn in 24 hours
Pakistan’s one-day restriction on Taiwanese airlines using its airspace has drawn attention to Islamabad’s close alignment with Beijing. Geopolitical commentator Brahma Chellaney said the move, reversed after China reportedly expressed surprise, showed Pakistan attempting to defend Chinese interests more aggressively than China itself.

International airlines have choice to shift to Navi Mumbai airport or suspend operations temporarily: Adani Airports CEO
International airlines currently operating from Mumbai airport are given options to temporarily suspend operations or relocate. Discussions are ongoing with various international carriers regarding this transition. Indian airlines such as IndiGo and Air India have agreed to shift certain operations.

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.

Bombay HC invokes secular spirit, slams 'petty mindset', says restore Dia Mirza clip
The Bombay High Court expressed discontent over the removal of Dia Mirza's eco-friendly Diwali campaign video. Political objections led to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's decision to delete the clip. The court emphasized the need for a secular approach in environmental awareness efforts. Justice Gokhale criticized local politicians for not advocating for environmental issues effectively.

Iran thanks India after airborne commandos recapture pirate-held vessel Azini off Somalia, rescue 20 crew members
Iran has thanked India after Indian Navy commandos recaptured the pirate-held fishing vessel Azini off Somalia and rescued all 20 Iranian crew members in a 48-hour operation. The mission, completed more than 3,000 km from Mumbai, involved an Indian Navy warship, reconnaissance aircraft and support from an IAF C-17 aircraft.

Air India CEO eyes wide-body aircraft order expansion, says profitability remains a concern
Air India CEO Tewolde Gebremariam emphasized the airline's commitment to enhancing financial performance and expanding its aircraft orders. The airline seeks to capitalize on significant growth opportunities in the aviation sector amidst current industry challenges. Gebremariam expressed the need for India to make timely decisions for its potential as a global aviation hub. Air India also aims to rethink its hubs and network structure to adapt to changing conditions.

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.

Six senior NCP leaders bypass Sunetra, Parth Pawar in huddle with union home minister
Praful Patel met Amit Shah along with Maharashtra NCP chief Sunil Tatkare, state ministers Chhagan Bhujbal, Hasan Mushrif, Dilip Walse Patil and Dhananjay Munde. The faction led by Patel claimed that the meeting was held to build pressure on BJP brass to return the finance ministry portfolio, held by the late Ajit Pawar, back to NCP.

CBDT tightens merger rules for charity trusts, imposes five-year curbs on changing objectives
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has made it mandatory for organisations merging with another registered non-profit to inform the I-T Department within a prescribed deadline, get their accounts audited and disclose the reasons for the merger. The new rules, notified on October 30, also prevent organisations with regular registration from merging with those holding provisional registration, and vice versa.

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.

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.

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.
Load More