AIRLINE
Airlines go premium as demand for business-class seats outpaces economy
Since 2020, airlines have increased the number of premium seats significantly to meet growing consumer demand. Airlines are adopting strategies to enhance premium offerings, including gourmet meals and exclusive lounges. This focus has resulted in premium products generating substantial ticket revenue. Various airlines are implementing new options, such as Economy Plus and first-class services.
Mumbai airport slot row: AOC questions ministry approval to deny slots to 12 international airlines
Airline Operators Committee has raised concerns regarding the slot allocation for twelve international carriers. The carriers have not received their requested slots for the summer 2027 season. Mumbai International Airport is planning to temporarily relocate operations to Navi Mumbai International Airport. This move is due to the redevelopment of Terminal 1. Clarity on the approval from the civil aviation ministry is being sought by the committee.
Air India starts using Iraq airspace for New York, Newark direct flights; likely to see 10% fuel savings
Air India has resumed non-stop flights to New York and Newark using Iraqi airspace, cutting journey times by around four hours to 16 hours and saving nearly 10% in fuel costs. The revised routes also offer greater flexibility in crew deployment and help ease the impact of prolonged airspace restrictions.
Saudi airline flyadeal launches direct flights between Jeddah and Lucknow
In a new development plan, Flyadeal is expanding its services to India with new direct flights from Jeddah to Lucknow, scheduled to commence on November 4, 2026. With three flights a week, this new route reinforces ties between the two countries, satisfying the needs of travelers for business and family connections.
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.
Mumbai airport asks 12 international airlines to shift to Navi Mumbai
Mumbai airport has given slots to 38 out of 50 airlines for the upcoming summer schedule. Twelve remaining airlines may operate from Navi Mumbai airport during Terminal 1 redevelopment. Passengers traveling to 14 designated destinations will shift their operations accordingly.
- Go To Page 1
Iran war, doubling fuel prices knock 66% off Emirates' first-half profit
Emirates Group's first-half net profit plunged 66% to $1 billion as the Iran war disrupted flights across the Gulf and doubled jet fuel prices. Passenger numbers at Emirates airline fell 22%, while cargo revenue rose 52%. The Dubai-based group is relying on cash reserves as geopolitical uncertainty clouds its outlook.
Explainer: What do we know about the wave of bomb threats against flights in Europe?
Airlines in Europe have experienced a series of coordinated bomb threats this week, prompting security responses and flight diversions. Many threats were communicated via anonymous emails, but none have proved genuine so far. The risks associated with such threats can disrupt airline operations significantly and lead to financial costs. Aviation security officials emphasize the need to treat every threat seriously until proven otherwise.
US airlines may face fresh scrutiny as Democrats plan probes into pricing and passenger rights
Following a significant midterm election victory, Democrats intend to scrutinize airlines regarding personalized pricing practices and passenger protection rules. The Federal Trade Commission has requested information from major airlines about the influence of personal data on pricing. Congress plans to revive protections that were previously withdrawn, including compensation for travel disruptions. Legislators are also exploring requirements for transparency in ticket pricing and additional passenger rights.
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.
US sanctions India-based couple, companies over alleged support for Iran's Shadow oil fleet
The United States imposed sanctions on Suniel Kumar Sharma and Jaspreet Preeti Shahid for aiding Iran's shadow fleet. Their network allegedly provided fraudulent maritime registrations to help sanctioned vessels transport Iranian petroleum. Several companies linked to the couple also received sanctions under Executive Order 13902. Additionally, a Turkiye-based company was sanctioned for providing services to US-designated Iranian airlines.
India proposes 1% mandatory blending of green jet fuel from January
India has introduced a draft policy for the mandatory blending of sustainable aviation fuel for international flights. The initial blending requirement is set at 1%, increasing to 5% by 2030, and 20% by 2040. Airlines must source approximately 90% of their aviation turbine fuel from international airports to curb economic tankering. Non-compliance may lead to penalties for airlines and oil marketing companies in this proposal.
MIAL seeks to shift 14 international flights to Navi Mumbai Airport by Nov 3
Mumbai International Airport has proposed shifting flights to 14 international destinations to the new Navi Mumbai International Airport. This move aims to free up capacity for the redevelopment of Terminal 1 at the current airport. If airlines do not voluntarily surrender slots, the airport operator plans to execute the transition. Passengers flying to Gulf and Asian destinations may have to use the new airport instead.
SpiceJet’s meltdown: Rs 5,500 crore raised, but where did the money go?
SpiceJet's mounting financial crisis raises serious questions over the fate of more than Rs 5,500 crore raised in recent years, its unpaid dues, operational collapse and regulatory oversight. Despite repeated capital infusions, the airline faces mounting losses and possible bankruptcy, while questions persist over fund utilisation, management accountability and aviation safety.
Star Air cuts weekly flights on high fuel costs, says airline official
Star Air has reduced its weekly flights by 15-20%, largely due to soaring Aviation Turbine Fuel prices. The airline is calling for a special fuel pricing strategy to support regional operators. This change is in response to increasing operational expenses caused by volatile fuel costs amid geopolitical tensions. Although the government had previously set up a Price Stabilisation Fund for airlines, it has since expired.
Singapore Airlines says 46,000 booking records affected by Amadeus breach
Singapore Airlines said on Tuesday that about 46,000 booking records may have been affected by a cybersecurity incident involving Amadeus, its reservation technology
Indian airlines seek to boost domestic MRO capabilities as aircraft fleets expand
Indian airlines are focusing on building in-house capabilities for maintenance and repair as the aircraft fleet grows. Air India plans to establish an MRO facility in Bengaluru by 2027, while IndiGo emphasizes the need for self-reliance. Akasa Air's maintenance facility at Noida airport is expected to be operational by 2028. The commercial aircraft fleet in India, currently around 800, is predicted to double in coming years as air traffic increases.
Cancelled flight ticket? GSTAT says airlines can refund GST to passengers and claim it back from the government
Taxpayer wins GST refund denial case after depositing GST on airline ticket with the govt and later refunding the GST back to passengers due to cancelled ticket; GSTAT orders GST department to issue GST refund with interest to taxpayer
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.
FLY91 plans to expand fleet to 60 aircraft in five years, targets 350 weekly flights: CEO Manoj Chacko
Regional airline FLY91 plans to expand its fleet from six to around 60 aircraft over five years, backed by an order for 40 planes scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2032. The airline also aims to operate nearly 350 weekly flights this winter, prioritising domestic expansion before exploring international routes.
Bomb threat leads to unscheduled landing of LOT flight at Warsaw-Modlin airport
A passenger plane traveling from London to Warsaw made an emergency landing in Poland after a bomb threat. Warsaw/Modlin Airport was closed until further notice to ensure safety. The security services initiated verification processes to assess the reported threat. There were 181 individuals on board the aircraft during this incident. Polish airlines LOT confirmed its involvement with the flight that experienced the alert.
India needs three national carriers to compete globally, says Adani Airports CEO
Adani Airports CEO Arun Bansal emphasized the need for three national carriers to cater to India's aviation demands. He stated that strengthening domestic airlines is crucial before embracing more international competition. Passenger traffic is expected to rise, requiring robust airline ecosystems and regulatory changes. Adani Airports plans to invest significantly in infrastructure to support this growth. The company aims to expand its capacity and participate in upcoming airport privatization initiatives.
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.
Socha nhi tha plane ke neeche sona padega: SpiceJet’s SG-533 flight from Mumbai to Gorakhpur cancellation forces passenger to lie near aircraft, airline responds
A video showing SpiceJet passengers sleeping on the airport apron near an aircraft after the cancellation of Mumbai-Gorakhpur flight SG553 has surfaced online. The airline attributed the disruption to operating-hour restrictions at Gorakhpur's defence airport, while passengers questioned why they were allowed to board before the cancellation.
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.
IndiGo to consider hedging fuel as it ventures on long haul routes
IndiGo is evaluating the possibility of hedging fuel costs as it plans for long-haul international operations. The airline's planned introduction of the Airbus A350 aircraft will enhance its overseas expansion strategy. Despite previously avoiding fuel hedging, management is now reassessing this approach in light of market competition. IndiGo's dominant position in the domestic aviation market facilitates its long-term growth aspirations.
IndiGo to introduce business, premium economy and economy cabins on A350 aircraft from 2028
IndiGo Airlines will introduce business class, premium economy, and economy cabins with its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The first A350-900s are expected to join IndiGo's fleet in the second quarter of 2028. This marks a significant expansion in IndiGo's long-haul international operations, offering passengers more travel options. The airline currently operates in the domestic market and aims to strengthen its international presence.
IndiGo expects first Airbus A350 delivery in second quarter of 2028, CEO Willie Walsh says
The anticipated delivery of IndiGo's first Airbus A350 wide-body aircraft is scheduled for the second quarter of 2028, according to CEO Willie Walsh. The airline is focused on expanding its long-haul routes despite the hurdles of increasing fuel costs and a falling rupee. To better manage its operations, IndiGo has cut back on its Saudi Arabia routes.
Government notifies new airfare rules, allows intervention in extraordinary situations
The government has notified new rules allowing it to intervene in airline ticket prices in extraordinary situations and in the public interest, amid concerns over high airfares in the backdrop of elevated crude oil and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices.
Load More
