AIRLINES
European plane maker ATR bullish on India; in talks with airlines
European aircraft manufacturer ATR sees potential for 300 more turboprop aircraft over the next decade, citing India’s growing regional connectivity and airport infrastructure. With 70 ATR planes already in use, the firm remains optimistic about future partnerships and market demand.
Akasa Airlines asks sisters aged 17 and 9 to pay Rs 5,000 in cash, denies boarding until payment is made
Akasa Airlines allegedly demanded ₹5,000 cash from two sisters, aged 9 and 17, for an unaccompanied minor fee at Kolkata airport, despite the elder sister being present. The airline refused digital payment and wouldn't consider the 17-year-old as an adult guardian. The family alleges lack of prior notice, proper documentation, and ID verification, causing distress and trauma to the children.
Thief or no thief? What cases say about Vijay Mallya
Vijay Mallya, facing accusations of bank loan defaults, has apologized for Kingfisher Airlines' collapse while denying being a thief. He expressed willingness to return to India under specific conditions, claiming his dues have been recovered multiple times over. Despite his claims, Mallya faces charges of criminal conspiracy, fraud, and money laundering, with investigating agencies detailing several cases against him.
After Indigo, Akasa partners with Navi Mumbai Airport for commercial flights
Akasa Air will soon operate flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport. The airline plans over 100 weekly domestic departures initially. Later, it will increase to 300 domestic and 50 international flights. Akasa Air aims to expand its network with 10 parking bases by 2027. The airline will focus on Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian routes.
Lufthansa to restart Tel Aviv flights on June 23
Lufthansa Group announced it will resume flights to and from Tel Aviv on June 23, after suspending them in early May due to the regional conflict. The decision, affecting multiple airlines within the group, follows a thorough security analysis and coordination with authorities.
Airlines facing skewed value chain; profit margin never crossed 5 pc; IATA executive
Airlines worldwide face a skewed value chain, limiting profit margins. IATA's Marie Owens Thomsen highlights legacy policies as a cause. She hopes India's efforts to balance the chain will set an example. Aircraft manufacturers and oil companies hold significant power. Airlines are squeezed between costs and price-sensitive customers. IATA projects a USD 36 billion net profit for airlines in 2025.
- Go To Page 1
Vijay Mallya claims Pranab Mukherjee told him to keep flying despite crisis in Kingfisher cabin
Vijay Mallya accuses former Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee of denying Kingfisher Airlines' downsizing request during the 2008 crisis, claiming Mukherjee assured bank support. Mallya insists he offered settlements, disputes debt figures, and challenges his 'thief' label, stating he's repaid more than owed.
Vijay Mallya calls 'ease of doing business' a myth in India, says extreme rules are rooted in Indian DNA, regardless of who is in power
Vijay Mallya, facing extradition in the UK, has criticised India's bureaucratic and politically influenced business environment. He claims unfair treatment and expresses willingness to return for a fair trial. Mallya also apologised to Kingfisher staff for unpaid dues, blaming court restrictions and the 2008 financial crisis, during which he sought government support to downsize.
Etihad rules out equity investments in Indian airlines, focuses on partnerships
Etihad Airways, under CEO Antonoaldo Neves, has ruled out equity investments in Indian airlines, shifting from its previous strategy. Despite this, India remains a key market, with Etihad focusing on partnerships like the one with Akasa Air.
‘Call me a fugitive, not a thief’: Vijay Mallya says sorry for Kingfisher crash, not the ‘chor’ tag
Vijay Mallya publicly apologized for the failure of Kingfisher Airlines, acknowledging its collapse while denying allegations of theft and criminal intent. He defended his decision to stay away from India, asserting he didn't 'run away' but left on a pre-scheduled visit. Mallya expressed willingness to return to India if assured a fair trial and dignified life.
$7.27 billion and counting: How checked baggage fees became a goldmine for airlines
Airline companies are making huge profits from baggage fees. Earlier, airlines provided free baggage service. Now, passengers pay extra for checked baggage. This change started in 2008 and continues today. Passengers now prefer smaller bags to avoid fees. Airlines earned billions from these charges. The trend of charging for bags is likely to continue.
Centre nudges Indian carriers to invest in crisis-hit Air Mauritius amid strategic push in Indian Ocean
The Indian government is encouraging its airlines to strategically invest in Air Mauritius, which faces a severe financial crisis with a significant negative equity. This initiative follows a request from Mauritius for potential investment and increased flight frequencies from Indian carriers.
Aviation soars, but profits still on the ground
India's aviation sector is experiencing rapid expansion. However, profitability remains a concern for airlines globally. IATA forecasts low per-passenger earnings for Asia Pacific in 2025. The region trails behind West Asia, North America, and Europe. India's figures are expected to be below the regional average. High costs and competitive pricing are contributing factors.
DGCA audit finds violations by Turkish Airlines
Directorate General of Civil Aviation found safety violations by Turkish Airlines. Inspections occurred at major Indian airports. Violations included unauthorized ground staff and missing service agreements. Hazardous materials were transported without permission. DGCA has directed Turkish Airlines to address the issues. This follows increased scrutiny of Turkish firms. Celebi's security clearance was revoked earlier.
Expanding missile threats and airspace closures are straining airlines
Airline companies face challenges due to increasing global conflicts. These conflicts impact flight routes and raise operational costs. Airlines reroute flights to avoid conflict zones. Recent events, like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, affect air travel. GPS jamming and airspace closures add to the difficulties. The industry prioritizes safety amid rising security concerns.
Global airlines pile on India capacity as US-Europe traffic drops
International carriers are increasing routes to India due to weaker transatlantic demand, spurred by global economic uncertainties. Delta Air Lines plans new services from Atlanta to Delhi and a code-sharing pact with IndiGo.
Aircraft makers need to come out with SOPs for airlines to deal with GPS spoofing situations: IATA
IATA urges aircraft manufacturers to provide guidance for airlines facing increasing GPS interference and spoofing, especially near conflict zones. Standardized procedures and better communication with civil and military stakeholders are crucial. IATA is collaborating with EASA to address GPS spoofing, while India reports numerous incidents in border regions.
IATA says there is need for greater certainty on taxation
IATA highlighted the need for more clarity in India's complex taxation system, especially as foreign airlines face tax notices. Despite this, India's aviation market is rapidly expanding, outpacing even China in growth. Airlines are increasing fleets and networks to meet the rising demand, making tax certainty crucial for sustained development.
Airlines projected to report USD 36 billion profit in 2025: IATA
Global airlines are set to soar with profits reaching 36 billion USD next year. The International Air Transport Association, IATA, held its annual meeting in New Delhi after 42 years. Supply chain issues and aircraft backlogs were key concerns. India's aviation sector supports millions of jobs and contributes significantly to the GDP.
Airlines say they are studying legal options over aircraft delivery delays
Aircraft delivery delays are hindering the airline industry's growth, prompting evaluations of legal options, according to IATA. While collaboration with manufacturers is preferred, airlines will oppose price hikes due to tariffs. IATA Director General Willie Walsh noted that there are currently no indications of increased plane prices.
Top airline credit cards for frequent flyers in 2025: Check credit card details of Axis Bank, SBI, ICICI Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank
Frequent flyers can unlock significant value with the right airline credit card. Options from Axis, SBI, ICICI, Kotak, and Standard Chartered offer benefits like free flights and lounge access. Cards such as Axis Bank ATLAS and Air India SBI Signature provide generous rewards and welcome bonuses.
Airline profit will increase despite head winds of geopolitics and trade wars
International Air Transport Association projects airline profits to rise to $36 bn in 2025. This is due to lower fuel prices. Passenger numbers are expected to reach a record 4.99 bn. Geopolitical unrest and airspace closures pose threats. Delay in aircraft delivery is also a concern. Passenger revenues will increase to $693 bn.
3 reasons why you should not swap your seats on a flight
Seat swapping on flights is now a complex issue. Passengers face potential risks like accountability for another's actions. United Airlines users risk preloaded payment issues. Many travellers now pay extra for specific seats. James Randolph refuses to switch after paying more. Seat selection fees and basic economy rules make seat swapping less simple. Passengers are protecting their investments.
Aviation hub-bub, now, bridge the gulf
India is strategically expanding its international air travel capacity, resisting pressure to expand bilateral agreements with West Asian carriers. This move aims to reduce reliance on foreign airlines and foster the growth of Indian aviation hubs. While West Asian airlines express concerns about potential capacity constraints, India prioritizes its long-term aviation goals and market share.
Key climate target of airline decarbonisation 'in peril': IATA
IATA warns that the airline industry's 2050 decarbonisation target faces challenges. Policies favouring fossil fuels are slowing progress. Sustainable Aviation Fuel is crucial but expensive. Investment of $4.7 trillion is needed.
IndiGo CEO responds to DGCA deadline to end Turkish lease, says it will help in finding solution for customers
IndiGo receives a three-month extension from the DGCA for its damp-leased aircraft from Turkish Airlines. This extension, valid until August 2025, helps IndiGo manage operations and customer commitments. CEO Pieter Elbers states the airline will find solutions for booked customers. IndiGo will comply with the government decision.
Consumer panel asks Flynas Airlines pay Rs 1.25 lakh to passenger for baggage loss
Flynas Airlines faces consumer commission's order. The airline must compensate a passenger over Rs 1.25 lakh. This is for a lost bag on a Mumbai-Istanbul flight. The commission found negligence by the airline. Flynas failed to trace the bag properly. The passenger had filed a complaint after unsatisfactory responses. The airline also needs to pay for mental distress.
DGCA extends IndiGo’s wet lease of Turkish Airlines' Boeing 777s amidst tensions with Turkiye
DGCA has granted IndiGo a three-month extension for its wet lease agreement with Turkish Airlines, allowing continued operation of Boeing 777s on Delhi and Mumbai to Istanbul routes. This decision occurs amidst geopolitical tensions and revoked security clearances, yet addresses IndiGo's capacity constraints due to grounded aircraft.
IndiGo will comply with any govt regulations, says CEO Pieter Elbers on wet leasing of Turkish Airlines planes
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers on Friday affirmed the airline's commitment to comply with all government regulations regarding its wet-leased aircraft from Turkish Airlines. His remarks follow Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu’s statement that the ministry is reviewing inputs from IndiGo and security agencies before making a decision on the matter.
Load More
