AIR STAFF
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit appointed new Chief of Air Force, replacing Amar Preet Singh
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the new Chief of the Indian Air Force. He succeeds Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh after a long and distinguished career. Dixit has flown various aircraft and logged over 3,500 hours of flying. He is recognized for promoting indigenous aircraft projects, particularly the LCA Tejas. Air Marshal Dixit is expected to further advance the government's Aatmanirbharta initiative.
India, US discuss stronger defence ties, maritime security as Admiral Paparo visits New Delhi
India and the United States are enhancing their defence and strategic partnership under the leadership of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. Admiral Samuel Paparo's visit to India included discussions on regional security challenges and technology cooperation. High-level meetings were held with senior Indian defence officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani. The discussions emphasized shared security priorities and maritime coordination in the Indo-Pacific region.
Saudi-backed Yemeni forces expel the Houthis from several areas around key strait, officials say
Forces of Yemen's internationally recognized government began a major offensive Monday against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels on the country's Red Sea coast, under an intensified air campaign by the Saudi-led coalition.
More layoff pain: Nike, airBaltic and Microsoft's Hellblade studio announce major job cuts
Nike is planning to implement further job cuts as part of its restructuring programme, which began in March. Meanwhile, developers at Hellblade studio Ninja Theory have reported layoffs, affecting several members of the team. European airline airBaltic is also considering cutting between 500 and 700 jobs, with decisions expected to be finalized soon. These changes are causing uncertainty among employees and may impact ongoing projects significantly.
Delhi air pollution: MCD fines fail to deter violators as AQI hits season’s worst level
Delhi’s pollution-control efforts are facing fresh questions after MCD records showed that only a small fraction of fines imposed for construction violations were recovered in 2024 and 2025. The concern comes as Delhi recorded its worst AQI of the season at 187 on October 4, while experts warned that weaker winds and approaching winter conditions could lead to more polluted days.
Germany's Merz arrives in Kyiv to finalize drone deal, release aid
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv with defence industry executives as Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities intensified. Germany is set to announce €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for energy repairs, while Berlin and Kyiv are expected to finalise agreements on joint drone production and deeper weapons cooperation.
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India may finalise 114 Rafale fighter jet deal with France by current financial year: IAF chief
India is planning to finalize a significant multi-role fighter aircraft deal by the end of this financial year. The proposed acquisition involves purchasing 114 Rafale fighter jets to enhance the Indian Air Force's capabilities. Current negotiations are focused on price and other important issues related to the procurement. The Chief of Air Staff emphasized the need for increased air power and self-reliance in manufacturing capabilities.
"Hit me so many times": New footage from flydubai flight shows bloodied Capt Machchhar whose heroics saved 180 lives
Captain Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. After being stabbed, he managed to unlock the cockpit door, thereby saving all passengers aboard. Police later identified the co-pilot as having undergone radical Islamist indoctrination and exhibiting suicidal tendencies. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Machchhar's actions as heroic and crucial to preventing a disaster.
From Hanuman Chalisa to opening cockpit door: Flydubai pilot recounts terrifying attack to PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, commending his actions during a mid-air attack. Machchhar, who sustained injuries, managed to open the cockpit door and help passengers intervene. India's ambassador to the UAE reported that Machchhar is now stable and recovering well after the incident. Modi highlighted the pilot's courage, stating it prevented a potential tragedy.
Omani co-pilot behind flydubai cockpit attack found with 'Free Palestine' leaflets, pro-Palestinian material: Israeli media
A Flydubai flight experienced a severe incident when the Omani co-pilot attacked the captain mid-flight. The flight faced a significant emergency descent, dropping 16,000 feet before landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Israeli authorities are investigating the assailant's potential Islamist radicalisation and connection to Tehran. Captain Smit Machchhar displayed remarkable bravery while preventing a possible catastrophe during the incident.
Flydubai's Omani pilot who attacked Capt Machchhar used 'feet to destroy control', was indoctrinated Islamist
New footage and details have emerged regarding a FlyDubai co-pilot's failed attempt to crash a Tel Aviv-bound flight. Quick-thinking passengers and crew subdued the attacker, while Indian Captain Smit Machchhar fought back to unlock the cockpit. Machchhar is recovering well in a UAE hospital, hailed for preventing a major disaster.
Ayodhya Ram temple staff to undergo 100 per cent police verification, character checks
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust decides to conduct 100 percent verification of all staff working at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The security measures will include police verification, character certificates and detailed family information. The decision will be applicable to all members of the trust. As part of the overhaul of the temple administration, the trust has also stepped up monitoring of staff and improving facilities.
Smit Machchhar stabbed mid-air: Flydubai co-pilot accused of attack ‘prayed a lot’, refused to shake women’s hands; feared he could cause another 9/11
Smit Machchhar stabbed mid-air: The Flydubai Omani co-pilot who attacked Indian captain Smit Machchhar was an extremely religious persona and refused to shake hands with women, a colleague reportedly said. The accused staffer had very strange behaviour and he used to pray a lot. The pilot attacked Smit Machchhar but the brave pilot despite being injured saved the lives of hundreds of passengers on Flydubai flight FZ1073.
Tewolde Gebremariam assumes charge as Air India CEO
Tewolde Gebremariam has officially taken charge as the CEO and MD of Air India. He is the second foreign leader to helm the struggling airline. During a recent staff townhall, he emphasized cost discipline as integral to the company's culture. He also highlighted the importance of sustainable profitability, safety, and operational reliability for the airline's success. Furthermore, Gebremariam plans to introduce programs that reward employees for efficient cost-saving ideas.
Flydubai flight lands in Saudi Arabia after fight in cockpit; injured pilot hospitalised
A flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv experienced an emergency situation over Saudi Arabia. The aircraft sent emergency codes indicating possible hijacking, prompting a quick response from Israeli Air Force jets. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, convened to address the unfolding events. The aircraft was diverted to Saudi Arabia, where further clarification of the situation is expected.
Air India's incoming CEO Tewolde Gebremariam gets security clearance
Tewolde Gebremariam has received security clearance and will officially take charge of Air India. His appointment follows the announcement made on August 5, replacing Campbell Wilson. During a recent townhall, Gebremariam emphasized the importance of cost discipline in Air India's operations.
Thai Airways suspends cargo flights until October 6; passengers face baggage issues
Thai Airways has halted all inbound and outbound cargo flights until October 6 due to severe flooding. The flooding has significantly affected operations at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, causing numerous cancellations and delays. Thai Airways CEO Chai Eamsiri has apologized for the inconveniences faced by passengers during this period. Additionally, Toyota announced temporary suspensions at three plants due to disruptions in parts deliveries.
Delhi announces construction ban, parking charges to double, orders WFH under Winter Pollution Plan: Check full list of measures
Delhi winter pollution news: Delhi government has announced new measures to combat pollution and manage construction activities. Starting November 1, parking charges will be doubled, and office timings changed for government employees. A complete ban on construction and demolition will take effect from December 10, while 50% workforce will work from home until February 28. Outdoor civil construction and demolition will be restricted during this period.
Air India CEO-designate Gebremariam pitches cost-saving measures, employee rewards & profitability in townhall
Newly appointed Air India CEO Tewolde Gebremariam underlined the importance of enhancing financial performance. He announced plans to encourage employee participation in cost-saving initiatives through rewards for ideas that yield measurable savings. Current challenges to break-even have highlighted the need for disciplined growth strategies and operational efficiency. Gebremariam emphasized the necessity of growing the airline sustainably and profitably to ensure long-term competitiveness.
Pakistan's first Hangor-class submarine conducts maiden live weapon firing
In a historic moment, Pakistan Navy's PNS/M HANGOR, the first of its Hangor-class submarines, conducted its first successful live weapon firing exercise in the Arabian Sea, launching an anti-ship cruise missile. This operation was observed by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, who emphasized its significance for strategic regional security. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the Navy's achievement, highlighting the importance of military preparedness in addressing ongoing security threats.
Drugs, alcohol, bicycle & losses: The strange to-do list awaiting Air India’s new boss Tewolde Gebremariam
Air India’s incoming CEO Tewolde Gebremariam inherits an airline with global ambitions but an unusually complicated to-do list. Beyond tackling a Rs 22,238 crore loss and securing fresh shareholder funding, he must address maintenance issues, cut costs and tighten operational discipline. Recent incidents involving pilots, alcohol and drugs, an alleged assault, a bomb-hoax probe, an immigration lapse and other service issues have added to the challenge. With hundreds of aircraft on order, Tewolde’s task is not simply to grow Air India’s fleet, but to ensure the airline can fund, staff and maintain it while charting a path towards profitability.
Air India pilot removed from Zurich flight over alcohol violation
An Air India pilot was removed from his aircraft in Zurich due to alcohol consumption before take-off. Authorities conducted sobriety tests that revealed blood alcohol content exceeding the permissible limit for pilots. As a result, the flight AI 151 to Delhi was grounded, leading to an investigation by Swiss aviation regulators. Both Air India and IndiGo enforce strict zero-tolerance policies for alcohol violations among crew members.
Train passengers, take note: 100% electrified ER faces safety focus as Railway Board checks electrical failures and OHE wire snaps
Eastern Railway is stepping up railway safety and electrical maintenance as Railway Board official Ramendra Kumar Tewari inspected key locations across the Howrah-Memari section. The inspection focused on fire safety, OHE reliability, passenger amenities and staff training. Eastern Railway is also upgrading trains from EOG to HOG and replacing ageing OHE wires to reduce failures, diesel consumption and emissions.
US F-35 stealth fighters to join IAF’s Tarang Shakti exercise in India for first time
The Tarang Shakti 2026 exercise in India will feature six US F-35 stealth fighter jets, a landmark event as they engage in their first multinational combat exercise with the Indian Air Force. Approximately 40 countries will be involved as participants or observers, showcasing various high-tech aircraft. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force remains focused on resolving delays related to the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet deliveries.
Air India staff suspended after passengers bypass immigration at Delhi airport
Air India has suspended staff after three Italian passengers bypassed immigration at Delhi airport while connecting from Amritsar to Munich earlier this month. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said stronger checks have now been introduced after the passengers were wrongly directed to the international transfer area instead of completing immigration formalities.
LCA Mark 1A induction expected in 1-2 months as engine issues resolved, testing underway: IAF Vice Chief Ashutosh Dixit
Earlier, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Chairman and Managing Director Ravi Kumar said that deliveries of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A to the Indian Air Force (IAF) are facing setbacks due to software integration challenges.
US stealth fighter F-35 among global air assets to headline Exercise Tarang Shakti in Jodhpur
The Indian Air Force announced that seven foreign nations—including the US, France, Germany, Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the UAE—will participate in the second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti at Jodhpur Air Force Station from September 26 to October 12. Marking its first participation in the multilateral air exercise, the US multi-role stealth fighter F-35 will feature alongside India's Rafale, Su-30 MKI, and Tejas aircraft in joint tactical maneuvers aimed at enhancing global interoperability.
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