Airlines / Aviation
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.
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.
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.
IndiGo in talks with Brazilian planemaker Embraer for 100 jets, sources say
IndiGo is reportedly negotiating to buy 100 regional jets from Embraer, which includes options for an additional 50 jets. Although the deal is not finalized, it marks significant potential for both companies. Deliveries of these aircrafts are anticipated to commence from or after 2030. Embraer has been advocating for its regional jets among Indian airlines. If finalized, this could result in one of the largest orders for Embraer.
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.
Delhi airport working with regulators to further ease security clearance for transfer passengers
Delhi airport is working with security regulators to ease clearance procedures for transfer passengers, who account for 30-35% of its annual traffic, GMR Airports Executive Director S G K Kishore said. He also defended airport charges, saying higher infrastructure investments push up tariffs, which could decline over time.
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.
Warsaw-Modlin airport closed after unplanned landing of plane from London
Warsaw-Modlin Airport was closed until further notice on Tuesday after a London-bound flight made an unplanned landing following information about a possible explosive device on board. Security agencies are investigating the reported threat.
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.
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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.
IndiGo CEO Willie Walsh eyes 14 A321 XLRs by 2027-end, A350s in 2028
IndiGo currently operates 4 A321 XLR aircraft, with plans to enhance its international routes. The airline will receive one additional A321 XLR aircraft by the end of this year. IndiGo aims to expand its total fleet to 600 aircraft by 2030, up from over 440 planes currently. The A350-900 aircraft deliveries are expected to start in the second quarter of 2028.
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.
Parliamentary panel raises concerns over high airfares; IndiGo, Air India flag rising fuel costs, Pakistan airspace closure
A parliamentary panel raised concerns over high airfares during discussions with IndiGo and Air India officials. Rising Aviation Turbine Fuel prices and the closure of Pakistan airspace were cited as major factors. IndiGo reported significant losses in the September quarter due to these issues, alongside challenges faced by Air India. The meeting also reviewed aircraft security and global aviation practices in India.
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.
Severe Cyclone Murasu: 19 flights cancelled across 3 Andhra airports
Severe cyclonic storm Murasu is expected to impact Andhra Pradesh, resulting in significant flight cancellations. At least 19 domestic flights have been canceled across Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam airports. Major airlines such as IndiGo and Air India Express have announced several flight cancellations. The storm is anticipated to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast during the night between November 2 and November 3.
