INDIA AIRLINES
91% of Mumbai airport's international traffic to remain unaffected by Terminal 1 redevelopment
Mumbai's Terminal 1 redevelopment will leave around 91% of international passenger traffic unaffected, with 39 of 50 international airlines continuing operations at CSMIA. Eleven carriers may shift select services to Navi Mumbai International Airport from March 2027, as the revamp aims to address structural concerns and raise Terminal 1's annual passenger-handling capacity by 33% to 20 million by March 2029.
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.
In a first since Covid, Diwali flight numbers fall as high fares, disruptions take a toll
Airlines scheduled about 6% fewer flights across October and November than a year earlier, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium. That marks the first capacity decline since 2020, when carriers slashed service capacity by nearly 45% amid the pandemic-induced collapse in travel demand.
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.
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.
Australia's Qantas Airways to cut 850 jobs as AI takes off, back-office work shifts to India
Australia's largest airline Qantas will cut 850 jobs from mid-2027 as it shifts some corporate functions to India and accelerates the adoption of artificial intelligence. A partnership with Accenture will overhaul its back-end systems, even as the airline embarks on the largest fleet renewal programme in its history.
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Don't let fare caps clip airlines' wings
Recently, airline price surges during festival seasons have raised concerns about imposing fare caps. While there is public demand for such measures, they may disrupt airlines' pricing flexibility. Regulations on airfares are more effective when they account for market demand and emergencies like natural disasters. Airlines might resort to add-on charges if their revenue is impacted by fare restrictions.
Soaring fares fail to ground year-end international travel plans
Despite a 25% increase in international airfares, bookings for year-end overseas holidays among Indians have risen by one-third. Many travelers are opting for more affordable destinations, especially in Southeast Asia and Japan. Airlines are reporting full flights, indicating high demand for international travel from India. Some international carriers are increasing their flight capacities in response to this demand.
UAE flight cancellations continue as airlines suspend Saudi routes until November 19
Flight disruptions continued across the UAE on November 9, with airlines cancelling services to several Saudi Arabian destinations amid ongoing security concerns. Etihad Airways has resumed its daily flights to Jeddah but suspended services to Riyadh and Dammam until November 19.
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.
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.
US slaps sanctions on Indian, Turkish firms and people for aiding Iran
The sanctions are part of the Trump administration's "Operation Economic Outcast," which aims to cut off Iran's ability to sell oil to fund the war with the US and Israel. Treasury unveiled the new sanctions a day after Democrats made huge gains in midterm elections, winning control of both houses of Congress as voters expressed anger about the Iran war and its impact in fueling US inflation.
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.
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.
Airbus wants more 'Made in India' aircraft parts: From titanium to complex assemblies, here's what company plans to source next
Airbus plans to increase its annual sourcing of components and services from India to USD 2 billion before 2030, up from the current USD 1.6 billion. India head Jurgen Westermeier called the country a "very important market" and stressed the need to strengthen local manufacturing, MRO infrastructure and aviation training as the country's aircraft fleet expands.
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.
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.
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.
Navi Mumbai airport presents big opportunity for IndiGo, says CEO Willie Walsh
IndiGo sets its sights on enhancing its international long haul network by shifting some flights to Navi Mumbai airport. Willie Walsh, the airline's CEO, sees this as a pivotal move for future growth. Despite opposition from other foreign carriers, IndiGo is undeterred, viewing Navi Mumbai as an essential opportunity as Terminal 1 of Mumbai airport undergoes renovations next year.
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.
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