INDIGENOUS AIRCRAFT CARRIER VIKRANT
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.
flydubai axe attack renews scrutiny: Key aircraft incidents since 9/11 that reshaped aviation safety rules
A flydubai co-pilot launched a terrorist attack by stabbing the captain with an emergency axe. The plane rapidly plunged 16,000 feet before passengers intervened to gain control. Despite serious injuries, the captain managed to land the aircraft safely, ensuring all passengers survived. This incident has reignited discussions regarding aviation security and pilot screening processes. Past incidents like 9/11 and the Germanwings crash have already changed safety protocols significantly.
Self-reliance in aero-engines foundation of India's aerospace sovereignty: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently celebrated the remarkable milestone of HAL's Koraput Division delivering its 2,000th aero-engine. This new Shakti engine line is set to manufacture up to 100 engines each year, reinforcing military readiness. He emphasized the necessity of developing indigenous capabilities for defense projects, notably the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, while calling for strengthened ties with MSMEs and educational institutions, highlighting Odisha's pivotal role in the aerospace industry.
Govt eyes Made-in-India civil aircraft in 2 years; discusses high jet fuel prices with airlines, OMCs: Naidu
India could have its first indigenous civilian aircraft within two years through a joint venture, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu said. With airlines ordering over 1,600 aircraft and more airports planned, the government is also exploring domestic engine manufacturing. Meanwhile, West Asia tensions are driving higher jet fuel costs, pressuring airlines.
Flyadeal looks to expand India network beyond Mumbai, Hyderabad
Flyadeal is considering expanding its operations in India to include additional cities like Lucknow and Kolkata. Currently, the airline has successfully established routes to Hyderabad and Mumbai. The airline's initial flights demonstrate strong passenger demand and high load factors on the existing routes. Challenges include rising fuel prices affecting fares and overall yields. The carrier aims to serve at least six Indian cities as it receives more aircraft.
"Indian Navy among most powerful in world": Rajnath Singh hails force, flags future challenges
The Defence Minister cautioned naval personnel about the challenges they may face in the future. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command Sanjay Bhalla were also present on the occasion.
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Saudi Arabia's flyadeal launches non-stop flights from Mumbai to Riyadh, expands India operations
flyadeal is set to commence non-stop flights between Mumbai and Riyadh starting October 3, operating five times weekly. The airline, which previously launched services to Hyderabad, aims to enhance its Indian presence. These flights will utilize Airbus A320neo aircraft configured with all-Economy Class seating. Passengers will enjoy seamless connections within Saudi Arabia for various destinations on their journey.
Nomura sees IndiGo emerging stronger from fuel shock; initiates Buy with Rs 6,000 target
Nomura initiated coverage on InterGlobe Aviation with a Buy rating and a Rs 6,000 target price, implying around 20% upside from the September 30 close. It believes IndiGo’s low-cost model, large aircraft order book and expanding international network could strengthen its competitive edge despite elevated fuel prices.
Akash air defence system reaches Turkmenistan: Check its capabilities as it joins Chinese systems to protect the Central Asian country
India has exported its indigenous Akash air defence missile system to Turkmenistan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has confirmed, expanding the weapon’s presence in Central Asia after Armenia and Tajikistan. Turkmenistan already operates Chinese-made air defence systems, including the FK-2000, FD-2000, KS-1A and FM-90. Here is a look at Akash’s range, capabilities and evolving variants.
US bombers redeployed to home bases after RAF Fairford terror attack probe
The U.S. Air Force has brought home its bombers stationed at RAF Fairford due to security concerns. An investigation into a potential terror attack has resulted in the arrest of several individuals. U.S. officials have indicated that additional military forces are being deployed to the Middle East. President Donald Trump has signaled continued military action against Iran may be considered. The situation remains fluid, with escalating tensions in the region.
UAE had shared details about FlyDubai flight with Israel, including pilots' names and nationalities
During a FlyDubai flight, chaos erupted when an Omani co-pilot attempted a hijacking, prompting urgent discussions about the crew vetting process. Israeli officials revealed their frustration over insufficient prior warning of the attacker. Initial findings indicate possible security protocol failures that could have prevented the situation. As investigations unfold, unresolved concerns about aviation security practices and international cooperation linger, highlighting the critical need for enhanced measures.
Flydubai incident: Multiple countries probe co-pilot’s background after cockpit attack: Reports
Authorities are investigating Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami for an attempted hijacking of a flydubai flight. The incident occurred during flight FZ1073, resulting in severe injuries to Captain Smit Machchhar. Investigators from Australia and Israel are examining al-Hammami's ties and motives. He was previously banned from flying in Oman due to radical ideological concerns.
"We possess necessary capabilities": IAF Chief AP Singh on countering Chinese 5th-gen aircraft challenge, urges push for AMCA
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh addressed concerns about Pakistan potentially acquiring Chinese fifth-generation aircraft. He emphasized that India possesses the capabilities to respond effectively to such threats. Historical context suggests that advanced platforms alone do not guarantee success for Pakistan against India.
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.
IAF chief hints at foreign fifth-gen fighter option if AMCA is delayed, cites Russia's Su-57 offer
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has indicated that India could examine foreign fifth-generation fighter options if the indigenous AMCA programme is delayed. Russia has offered its Su-57 fighter, although Singh said no decision has been taken. The IAF is also seeking to expand its fighter fleet as squadron strength remains below the authorised level.
Alaska Airlines takes its battle for Seattle with Delta overseas
Alaska Airlines is expanding aggressively into long-haul international travel from Seattle, using widebody aircraft acquired through Hawaiian Airlines to challenge Delta for premium passengers. The airline plans at least 15 intercontinental destinations by 2030, betting that higher-margin international, premium-cabin and loyalty revenue can offset fuel pressures and narrow the profitability gap with larger US rivals.
Aviation security measures under new scrutiny after in-flight attack on FlyDubai pilot
The alleged stabbing of captain by his co-pilot on a FlyDubai flight bound for Tel Aviv has exposed potential gaps in crew screening, cockpit security and emergency response protocols. Investigators from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Israel, with assistance from the US and Oman, are examining the incident, including pilot vetting, the handling of distress calls and how the crew member was cleared to operate the Israel-bound flight.
Trump weighs fresh Iran strikes as US sends 9,000 more troops to Middle East
The US military is deploying approximately 9,000 additional troops to the Middle East aboard ships for heightened tensions with Iran. President Donald Trump has hinted at potential escalating strikes after the upcoming elections. This military buildup includes three aircraft carriers, increasing US naval presence in the region significantly. Concerns are growing regarding Iran's possible shift towards unconventional tactics following recent attacks.
Emirates flight EK31 Frankfurt diversion: Dubai-London A380 flight takes emergency turn, hours after flydubai stabbing. Here's what happened
Emirates flight EK31, an Airbus A380 flying from Dubai to London Heathrow, was diverted to Frankfurt after a passenger suffered a medical emergency on board. The aircraft landed safely and the passenger was taken for further medical care. The diversion came just days after a separate flydubai flight to Israel was forced to make an emergency landing after its co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain.
Flydubai pilot called ‘terrorist’ after attempting to crash Israel-bound plane; what we know so far
One of the pilots of an Israel-bound flydubai flight tried to kill his co-pilot before the plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, a passenger's mother told AFP. Yasmin Abukasis, whose daughter Miryam was on the flight to attend a service for her brother killed in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, said her daughter told her by telephone after landing that everyone "thought they were going to die". "She said one pilot tried to kill the other pilot with a knife.
Bloodshed at 34,000 feet: Indian pilot braves stabbing to help Dubai flight land safely
An Indian pilot helped thwart an alleged hijacking attempt aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv after the co-pilot reportedly attacked him in the cockpit. The Boeing 737 MAX 8, carrying around 174 passengers, diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely after passengers and other pilots intervened.
India's fighter jet engine efforts get a big boost: Desi Kaveri engine clears key step in Russia, ready for integration with stealth UCAV ‘Ghatak’
India's Kaveri dry engine has completed high-altitude and flight trials in Russia, recording 48.5 kN of peak dry thrust against its target of 46 kN. Developed by DRDO, the engine is intended for India's planned Ghatak stealth UCAV.
US Navy sets its eyes on F/A-XX 6th Gen fighter as Boeing wins the award: here’s a look at the other similar jets in the making and which country is ahead; cost, specifications and features
Boeing’s F/A-XX will replace the US Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and operate alongside the F-35C. Here’s a look at its expected range, cost and design, and where China’s J-36, GCAP and FCAS stand in the sixth-generation fighter race.
Vikrant Massey brings ‘Musafir Cafe’ to real life: Two web series-inspired cafes with food, coffee, books and 20 artist residency rooms coming to Dharamshala, Uttarakhand by next year
Vikrant Massey and his wife Sheetal Thakur plan to open two Musafir Cafes inspired by the series. The cafes will be located in Dharamshala and Uttarakhand and are currently under construction. These spaces aim to create an environment for artists to work while providing food and books. Massey anticipates that the cafes will open by summer next year.
Four US Navy sailors injured aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower after landing mishap; Two aviators ejected safely
On September 28, a significant incident occurred on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, resulting in injuries to four individuals during an aircraft recovery operation. Two aviators from Carrier Air Wing 3 successfully ejected from their two-seater plane and were promptly evaluated by onboard medical staff. Meanwhile, one sailor was taken to a hospital in Norfolk with non-life-threatening injuries.
Boeing’s latest 737 MAX glitch hits close to home as Indian airlines bet hundreds of planes on the jet
Boeing identified a software issue affecting 737 MAX aircraft during specific landing scenarios, impacting airlines heavily investing in them. Air India Express and Akasa Air operate around 96 of these aircraft, with hundreds more on order. Boeing is developing a software fix while ensuring pilots can still land safely without automated assistance. Indian carriers have a significant backlog of Boeing orders, reflecting demand for the 737 MAX.
LCA Mk2, AMCA first flight dates confirmed: Defence Secretary reveals timeline for India’s next-gen fighter jets
India's LCA Mk2 medium weight fighter prototype is expected to fly by September 2027. The country's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, or AMCA, is targeted for its first flight in September 2028. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh provided clear timelines for these military aircraft programs. Test flights are set to occur between June and September next year. These developments are crucial for enhancing India's air combat capabilities against regional threats.
IndiGo Guwahati-Bengaluru flight makes abnormal runway contact at Bengaluru airport, airline clarifies
An IndiGo flight from Guwahati encountered a tail strike during a landing attempt in Bengaluru. The incident occurred amid challenging weather conditions at Kempegowda International Airport on Sunday. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were safe and successfully disembarked from the aircraft. The Airbus A321 involved in the incident will undergo maintenance checks before resuming operations. The relevant authorities have been informed about the situation for further review.
Defence ministry signs Rs 811 crore deal with BDL for 160 satellite-guided anti-airfield weapons
The Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth Rs 810.79 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited on Wednesday. This contract involves the procurement of 160 Satellite Smart Anti Airfield Weapons for the Indian Air Force. The weapon system, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, features 60% indigenous content. It will be deployed on aircraft such as the Jaguar, Hawk, and Su-30 MKI.
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