SpiceJet Shares Surges 5% After UK Court Order $8 Million Payment To Engine Lessor

The shares of cash-strapped airline SpiceJet rallied in Friday's trading session after a UK court ordered the airline to cough up $8 million or nearly Rs 70 crore to an engine lessor.

In early trade today, SpiceJet shares rose as much as 5% to hit an intra-day high of Rs 12.27 per share. 

Earlier, London's commercial court ordered granted summary judgment in favour of Sunbird France 02 SAS after noting unpaid rents and maintenance accruals, coupled with no viable defence.

The dispute relates to unpaid rent dating back to January 2022 and maintenance accruals from as early as November 2020.

The ruling comes ​as SpiceJet remains under financial strain following the Boeing 737 MAX grounding and COVID-19 pandemic, and losing market share ​to rivals such as Akasa Air.

The unpaid ​rent dates from January 2022, while maintenance accruals date ‌back ⁠to November 2020. The lessor issued default notices in July 2022 and repossessed all three engines between late 2022 and mid-2023.

10/04/2026 Nitin Waghela/Republic World

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Suspension of Alliance Air flight services from Jabalpur proves a major setback

The suspension of Alliance Air flight services from Jabalpur has triggered concern across the Mahakoshal region, with stakeholders terming it a major setback to connectivity and regional growth. The Vayuseva Sangharsh Samiti has urged the airline to restore operations at the earliest and introduce new routes from the city. Convener Himanshu Khare said Jabalpur is a key administrative, judicial, educational and commercial hub of Madhya Pradesh. The city also serves as a gateway to prominent tourist destinations such as Kanha and Bandhavgarh national parks, along with the world famous Bhedaghat. He said the discontinuation of flights has caused inconvenience not only to passengers but also to those associated with trade, tourism, education and healthcare sectors. Khare stated that Alliance Air has recently launched flights from Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh to Kolkata, Delhi and Bilaspur, where passenger traffic is comparatively lower.

In contrast, earlier flights from Jabalpur, especially on the Delhi and Jagdalpur routes, had recorded strong passenger load factors, indicating the viability of these sectors. Members including Manu Sharad Tiwari, Himanshu Rai and others have demanded immediate resumption of flight services from Jabalpur. They have also called for direct connectivity to major cities such as Pune, Kolkata, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Chennai, along with restoration of the Jabalpur-Jagdalpur route. Samiti members said that an emerging city like Jabalpur should not be neglected. 

10/09/2026 Hitavada

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SpiceJet to bid adieu to Imphal

After providing air connectivity to the State for a little over 2 months, SpiceJet is set to permanently close flight operations from Imphal from April 15.

The airline has cited "operational reason" behind the closure. With this development, only three airlines- Air India Express, Alliance Air and Indigo continue to operate out of Imphal Airport.

It is worth noting that SpiceJet began flight services in Manipur on February 10, 2026.

It had introduced flights connecting Imphal to Kolkata, Guwahati and Mumbai using Boeing 737 aircraft.

The launch of SpiceJet flights from Imphal in February had been lauded as a much needed and positive step in a State where ongoing crisis made highway travel unfeasible, leaving air travel as the only alternative for many in the valley.

09/04/2026 Sangai Express

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Take criticism objectively: Tata Group chief to Air India workers after CEO's exit

As Air India begins the search for a new CEO after the resignation of Campbell Wilson, Tata Group chairman N Chandrasekaran has sought to steady nerves within the airline, urging employees to stay focused on result-oriented execution and not get upset by criticism.

Addressing staff and top management days after Wilson’s exit amid multiple headwinds, Chandrasekaran acknowledged that the airline is “going through a challenging phase” but emphasised that its long-term prospects remain strong.

“Take pride in what is being done, feel proud of yourself, don’t get distracted. Criticism will always be there but take it objectively. Don’t get upset; there is no progress without criticism. If the core message of the criticism is justified, fix it,” he told the employees.

Since Tata Group reacquired Air India in 2022, the airline has embarked on an ambitious turnaround strategy encompassing fleet modernisation, mergers, and global expansion. However, the transformation journey has been accompanied by persistent challenges, including financial pressures, regulatory scrutiny over safety and crew fatigue violations, and operational bottlenecks. Most notably, the Ahmedabad air crash continues to cast a long shadow over the airline, intensifying scrutiny of its safety practices.

Chandrasekaran stressed that the immediate priority must be disciplined execution.

“Our focus should be on what is within our control, where we can improve, be precise on costs and remain grounded in the reality of the situation,” the Tata Group Chairman advised staff.

10/09/2026 Ajmal Abbas/India Today

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Airfare Surge: IndiGo, Air India and Global Airlines Raise Ticket Prices Amid Jet Fuel Spike

The surge in fuel prices—triggered by ongoing geopolitical tensions—has pushed aviation turbine fuel rates from approximately $85–$90 per barrel to as high as $150–$200 in recent weeks. Fuel expenses typically account for nearly 25% of an airline’s operating costs, making this spike a significant challenge for the industry.

Airlines worldwide are taking multiple steps to manage rising expenses while maintaining operations.

AirAsia has reduced flight frequency by nearly 10% and introduced additional fuel surcharges.

Air France plans to increase long-haul ticket prices, with fares rising by around €50 per trip.

Air New Zealand has cut flights and suspended its financial outlook due to uncertainty in fuel markets.

United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have raised baggage fees and reduced less profitable routes.

These measures reflect a broader industry trend of cost optimisation and cautious expansion.

Indian airlines have also introduced revised pricing structures that directly impact passengers.

Air India has shifted from a flat surcharge model to a distance-based system. Domestic passengers may now pay between ₹299 and ₹899 depending on the route.

IndiGo has introduced fuel surcharges of up to ₹950 on domestic routes and up to ₹10,000 on long-haul international flights.

Akasa Air has also implemented surcharges ranging from ₹199 to ₹1,300.

These changes are expected to increase overall travel costs, especially during peak seasons.

10/04/2026 Ananya Patnaik/Pragativadi

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Fly91 starts Vijayawada-Hyderabad flights, under regional aviation push

Regional carrier Fly91 has launched flight services on the Vijayawada-Hyderabad sector, adding frequency on the route and widening travel options for passengers. The launch comes as the Centre continues to pitch regional air connectivity through schemes such as UDAN, with Vijayawada also expected to see more domestic and international links in the near future.

10/04/2026 Economic Times

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Indian Airlines Face Rs 2,500 Cr Hit Amid West Asia Crisis

Indian airlines are staring at an estimated revenue loss of around Rs 2,500 crore as airspace restrictions and the ongoing West Asia conflict disrupt operations, forcing cancellations, rerouting and higher fuel consumption.

The crisis has significantly impacted international operations, particularly on routes connecting India with the Gulf — one of the country’s largest aviation markets driven by migrant traffic, business travel and tourism. Airlines have been compelled to cut services sharply, with daily flights to key Gulf destinations dropping substantially due to restricted airspace.

Major carriers such as IndiGo and Air India have scaled back operations, with some operating only a fraction of their planned schedules. The disruptions have led to widespread cancellations and reduced capacity, directly affecting revenue streams.

Airspace closures over parts of West Asia, including critical corridors, along with restrictions over neighbouring regions, have forced airlines to take longer alternative routes. This has increased flight durations by several hours on long-haul routes to Europe and North America, significantly raising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) consumption and operational costs.

06/04/2026 Business World

 

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Iran war disruption gives a rare opportunity to Indian, Chinese airports

The Iran war has created an unexpected opportunity for airports in India and China to emerge as global transit hubs with Middle Eastern aviation facing disruption, the Financial Times reported.

Before the conflict erupted in February, nearly one in three passengers travelling between Asia and Europe transited through Gulf hubs such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha.

With air traffic in the region facing disruptions despite a ceasefire, industry executives told FT that the balance could temporarily shift in the favour India and China.

Asia already hosts major aviation hubs in Singapore and Hong Kong. However, India and mainland China have long struggled to build comparable global transit centres.

“India has so far squandered their opportunity to create a global hub. For many years, the largest hub for India has been many of the airports in the Middle Eastern region," Hari Marar, chief executive of Bangalore International Airport, told FT.

The gap has been driven by regulatory hurdles and the absence of a strong anchor airline, he added.

India’s two biggest carriers — Air India and IndiGo — are expected to triple their fleet sizes over the next decade, supported by large aircraft orders.

China and India are also expanding airport capacity, banking on rising demand from a growing middle class.

10/04/2026 Moneycontrol

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Pilots fear retribution over refusing to fly in West Asia: Aviators' group

Airline pilots who have safety concerns about flying in West Asia during the Iran war have told a global aviators' union group they fear blowback ranging from lost pay to being fired if they refuse assignments, ​its president Ron Hay said.

Pilots from Lebanon to India have voiced "widespread" concerns they could face sanctions if ​they do not fly in often unpredictable conditions where airspace can close with little notice due to missile or drone strikes, according to the ‌head of the International Federation of Air Line Pilot' Associations.

"There is an underlying fear of retribution," Hay told Reuters in his first interview on the matter.

His comments come as some West Asian carriers continue to restore flights even as a two-week ceasefire announced on Tuesday faces challenges from continued attacks.

Hay, a Delta Air Lines captain, said some of the pilots worried about being fired. For others, "they may not lose their job but they (managers) may say, 'Don't fly the trip and you don't get paid for it.'"

He declined to name the airlines involved but said these were examples of how not to run a positive safety culture where pilots were encouraged to speak up.

"That's been lacking in West Asia region for quite some time and it's just been exacerbated by this conflict," Hay said.

10/04/2026 Reuters/Business Standard

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Bengaluru airport, IndiGo, Digi Yatra conduct India’s first contactless international travel trials

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) on April 9 said it successfully demonstrated a fully integrated, contactless international travel flow at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, in partnership with IndiGo and Digi Yatra Foundation.

The trials were conducted under International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) global Proof-of-Concept (PoC) campaign, enabling passengers to move from ticketing and bookings to biometric-enabled airport touchpoints without manual intervention.

George Fanthome, Chief Technical Officer, BIAL, said:  "At Bengaluru airport, we have taken a phased approach to building a biometric-led travel ecosystem. These new trials align with our broader vision of enabling contactless travel at scale, where passenger-controlled data, interoperability, and seamless experiences converge".

Building on earlier domestic successes with Digi Yatra’s Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) technology, IndiGo has extended the system to international travel. The trials enabled app-to-app boarding pass sharing and seamless biometric verification, demonstrating scalability for global passenger flows.

Neetan Chopra, Chief Digital and Information Officer, IndiGo, said: "These successful technical trials clearly demonstrate the feasibility of leveraging digital identity and biometric technologies to deliver seamless, contactless airport experiences. We look forward to this playing a meaningful role in the evolution of global air travel."

09/04/2026 Moneycontrol

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India's lack of widebody aircraft a 'scandal', says incoming IndiGo chief

India's aviation market is poised for significant expansion but remains constrained by a limited number of widebody aircraft, Willie Walsh, the incoming chief executive of IndiGo, told the BBC.

Walsh described the country's fleet of 50 widebody aircraft as a "scandal" given its size and growth potential.

A widebody aircraft is a larger, twin-aisle plane designed to carry more passengers over longer distances, making it essential for non-stop international and long-haul routes.

Walsh will join IndiGo, India's largest airline, in August after the end of his term as the director general of the International Air Transport Association.

He succeeds Pieter Elbers who resigned as IndiGo's CEO on 10 March, citing personal reasons.

But it was widely seen as being linked to a recent crisis that forced the airline to cancel thousands of flights, the largest disruption in its 20-year history.

In December, the carrier cancelled about 4,500 flights, leaving thousands of passengers stranded at airports across India.

The disruption followed the introduction of new pilot duty and rest regulations in India designed to reduce fatigue among flight crews. The airline later acknowledged it had misjudged how many pilots it would need once the rules came into force.

08/04/2026 BBC News/AOL

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SpiceJet to send some employees on 'furlough':Decision comes amid the company's mounting losses

The country's private airline SpiceJet is going through a crisis. With declining operational capacity, the company has decided to send few employees on furlough.

The airline has 6,800 employees. It has only 13 aircraft left, which include 10 Boeing and 3 Q400. Additionally, 14 aircraft are operating on wet-lease (with crew).

Senior officers have not received salaries since January and other employees are receiving their salaries with a delay of 2-3 months. The company has outstanding dues of more than ₹100 crore in GST, TDS and PF. TDS has not been deposited since April 2025 and GST for 5 months.

The airline has terminated the three-month notice period of dozens of engineers who had resigned. Following the March 31 order, these employees have been asked to leave their jobs immediately.

SpiceJet's share in the domestic market has fallen to just 3.9%. In comparison, the newer airline Akasa has a 4.9% share with 37 aircraft and 5,000 employees. Former employees are also expressing dissatisfaction over not receiving their full and final dues.

10/04/2026 Bhaskar English

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Passenger smokes ‘beedi’ on Delhi-Goa Akasa Air flight; case registered

Panaji: Police have registered a case against a passenger for allegedly smoking a 'beedi' inside the toilet of a Delhi-Goa Akasa Air flight, officials said.

The incident occurred on Saturday, March 7, when the accused Ashish, a Delhi resident, was travelling on flight QP1625 from the national capital to the coastal state, they said.

As per the airline's complaint, the passenger allegedly smoked a 'beedi' (hand-rolled cigarette) inside the plane lavatory during the flight and was also found in possession of a lighter, which could pose a risk to the safety of the aircraft and passengers on board, a police official said on Sunday.

The act endangered the safety of fellow passengers and crew members during the flight, the police said.

A case has been registered against the passenger at the Mopa airport police station in Goa under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act, they said, adding that further investigation is underway.

09/04/2026 Udayavani

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Akasa Air Appoints New Head- Corporate Communications & CSR

Aditi Roy has been appointed as the new Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Akasa Air. This appointment comes at the time when the airlines strengthens its leadership in strategic communications and stakeholder engagement.

Aditi brings extensive experience, having worked across renowned organizations including Novartis India, SPAG FINN Partners, FleishmanHillard, K2 Communications Pvt Ltd, Text100 (now Archetype), and MullenLowe Lintas Group.

She holds expertise in corporate communications, patient advocacy, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, and integrated communications strategy.

09/04/2026 Saba Azim/Safari India

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Akasa Air suspends flights to Doha, Riyadh and Kuwait until April 5 amid West Asia crisis

Akasa Air has suspended flights to Doha, Riyadh and Kuwait until April 5 due to the escalating crisis in West Asia, while continuing operations on select routes.

In a statement posted on X, the airline said, “Following our ongoing safety assessment and a review of the prevailing situation in the Middle East, we continue to operate flights to/from Jeddah and Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kochi and Kozhikode.” Akasa Air noted that operations may change depending on how the situation evolves.

The airline confirmed the suspension of services to Doha, Riyadh and Kuwait, stating, “Flights to/from Doha, Riyadh and Kuwait are suspended until April 5, 2026.”

“We continue to monitor and assess the situation with respect to these destinations on a real-time basis, and changes, if any, will be notified accordingly,” it added.

To assist passengers affected by the suspension, Akasa Air announced a waiver of cancellation and rescheduling charges for these routes. “Passengers may opt for a full refund… or reschedule their travel at no additional cost,” the airline said, adding that refunds will be processed within seven days.

Passengers are advised to check flight status before departure and contact the airline’s support centre for assistance.

31/03/2026 The News Mill

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UK court orders SpiceJet to pay $8 million in fresh financial blow

In a fresh blow to SpiceJet, a UK court has ordered the airline to pay around $8 million to Sunbird France 02 SAS, an aircraft engine lessor, deepening concerns over its already fragile financial position.

The ruling was delivered by London’s Commercial Court in favour of Sunbird, which had filed a claim over unpaid lease rentals and maintenance accruals linked to three aircraft engines. The court granted a summary judgment, observing that SpiceJet had “no realistic prospect” of defending the claim, effectively closing the door on any substantive legal challenge from the airline.

The dispute dates back several years, underlining the long-standing nature of SpiceJet’s financial stress. According to court filings, unpaid engine lease rentals date back to January 2022, while maintenance accrual obligations remained outstanding from as early as November 2020. The lessor had issued default notices in July 2022, before proceeding to repossess all three engines in phases between late 2022 and mid-2023.

What has further complicated the situation for the airline is its legal response or the lack of it. While SpiceJet had initially engaged British legal counsel, it failed to file a formal defence or respond to the lessor’s application. This procedural lapse played a decisive role in the court granting summary judgment, effectively fast-tracking the ruling in favour of the lessor. As of now, the airline has not issued an official response to the judgment.

09/04/2026 Mathrubhumi

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Air India families demand UK 'find the truth' on horror crash that killed 260

The families of some Brits killed in the horror Air India disaster have called for a UK-led investigation into the crash, as they warn of "serious concerns".

A group of people whose loved ones were among the 260 people killed when the Gatwick-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner smashed minutes after take-off have said they are still "seeking the truth" nine months after the tragedy. A group of devastated family members penned a letter to the UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) and reportedly shared their "concerns" over the investigation being done in India.

Air India flight 171, with 53 Brits on board, crashed into a hostel in Ahmedabad killing 260 people, in June 2025.

A preliminary report into the deadly crash, in July 2025, said the plane's fuel control switches were were moved from "run" to "cut-off" moments after take-off, which would have caused the plane to lose thrust. The controversial report was disputed by many but a full report by Indian investigators is due to published soon.

The families of some of the British victims said they "respected the work" of Indian authorities but called on the UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) to review the black box data from the flight, according to The Times.

In a letter to the chief inspector of the AAIB, Robert Balls, they reportedly wrote: "A review by the UK AAIB would provide families like ours with greater confidence that all technical aspects have been properly examined. We are only seeking the truth and reassurance that such a tragedy will not happen again in the future."

09/04/2026 Elizabeta Ranxburgaj/Mirror

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India-Dubai Air Travel Update: Which Indian Airlines Are Operating Now? What Are Ticket Prices Like?

Amid the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, Indian airlines, including Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo and SpiceJet, are operating limited flights to and from Dubai. Air India and Air India Express are currently running ad hoc (non-scheduled) flights to Dubai, subject to the availability of slots and other prevailing conditions at departure stations. These flights are designed to meet specific, immediate needs rather than operate on a fixed, regular schedule. At present, there are no regularly scheduled flights to Dubai.

According to IndiGo's travel advisory, as of April 5, 2026, the airline is operating select flights to and from the Middle East, including Dubai. Flight schedules are being reviewed on an ongoing basis in coordination with the relevant authorities. Customers are advised to check their flight status before arriving at the airport.

Direct flights between India and Dubai in April-May are operating from the following cities:

Dubai Airport authorities have restricted foreign carriers to one daily flight rotation from April 20 to May 31, 2026, creating significant operational constraints for Indian airlines. The Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), which represents Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet, has sought the Centre's intervention to remove this restriction, stating that it is already resulting in anti-competitive market conditions and substantial revenue losses, reported PTI.

09/04/2026 NDTV Travel

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Air India's Bengaluru-bound flight returns safely to Mumbai after engine stall

An Air India Airbus A320 (VT-TNK) operating from Mumbai to Bengaluru on Thursday returned safely to the origin shortly after take off after one of its engines stalled. The pilots declared PAN PAN to seek a priority return to Mumbai. Some passengers reportedly saw sparks from the engine during take off and heard a sound.

An Air India spokesperson said: "Flight AI2812 from Mumbai to Bengaluru on April 9 returned to Mumbai shortly after take‑off as a precaution due to a suspected technical issue, in accordance with standard operating procedures. The aircraft landed safely and is undergoing detailed technical inspections in line with Air India’s safety standards."

"We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers. Our Mumbai airport teams provided immediate assistance, and an alternative aircraft was arranged to operate the flight. The safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew remain Air India’s top priority," the spokesperson added.

09/04/2026 Times of India

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Fire breaks out at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Terminal 1 in Mumbai

A fire broke out at Terminal 1 of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai on Thursday, a civic official told PTI.

According to the Mumbai Fire Department, the blaze started on the ground floor of a ground-plus-three-storey structure within the terminal premises. Teams from the Mumbai Fire Brigade, along with police and local ward staff, rushed to the spot and are engaged in firefighting operations.

In a statement, an airport spokesperson said the incident was caused by a short circuit around 6:10 pm and was brought under control within minutes by emergency response teams. Airport operations remained unaffected.

"On Thursday 09 April 2026, a minor fire was reported at Terminal 1 due to a short circuit at 18:10 hrs. The fire was immediately bought under control by the emergency response teams within minutes. Airport operations remain unaffected," read the statement.

09/04/2026 Economic Times

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Air India CEO Campbell Wilson Resigns Amid Mounting Losses

Air India Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson has stepped down from his role, marking a significant leadership shift at the Tata Group-owned airline amid mounting financial and operational challenges.

Wilson, who was appointed in 2022 to steer the airline’s post-privatisation turnaround, is currently serving his notice period and is expected to remain in position until a successor is appointed. His tenure was originally set to run until 2027.

The resignation comes at a time when the airline is facing persistent losses, with estimates suggesting its financial strain could widen significantly in FY2026. The carrier has struggled with rising costs, aircraft delivery delays and external geopolitical pressures, including airspace restrictions and the ongoing West Asia crisis.

Operational challenges have further compounded the situation. Increased regulatory scrutiny followed a fatal crash in 2025 that claimed 260 lives, triggering inspections, temporary aircraft groundings and reputational damage for the airline.

07/04/2026 Business World

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Air India introduces flights to Halwara

 Air India will add a service to Halwara (Ludhiana) as its newest destination in India, enhancing access for travellers between the industrial heartland of Punjab and Delhi.

Beginning 15 May 2026, Air India will operate two daily flights between Delhi and Halwara using its A320 Family aircraft.

The flight schedule has been designed to offer same-day connectivity via Delhi to destinations across the UK and the rest of Europe. Passengers from Halwara/Ludhiana and surrounding areas can travel with Air India to Delhi and join onward flights from the same terminal, direct to London, Birmingham, Rome, Milan, and Paris – on a single ticket with baggage checked through to their final destinations.

10/04/2026 TTRWeekly

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Centre amends rules, commercial pilot permits now valid for 10 years

The government has amended aviation rules to make commercial pilot licences valid for 10 years now. This move is in line with the government’s efforts to further improve the ease of doing business in the aviation sector.

Till now, the validity of the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) was for five years and after completion of that period, it had to be renewed. The civil aviation ministry amended the Aircraft Rules, 1937.

Among various changes made, the validity of licences for Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and CPL holders has been increased from five years to 10 years.

“This change is expected to reduce the administrative burden on pilots and aviation authorities such as the DGCA, promoting a more streamlined and efficient licensing process,” the ministry said.

Besides, rules have been amended to address concerns related to the display of lights in the vicinity of an aerodrome. It has also been clarified that the term ‘light’ encompasses lantern lights, wish kites and laser lights. Also, the government’s jurisdiction over those exhibiting such lights has been extended from 5 kilometres to 5 nautical miles around an aerodrome.

“It is made explicit that the government possesses the authority to take action against individuals displaying lights that disrupt the safe operation of aircraft or pose hazards to the operating crew. Should such lights remain unattended for 24 hours, the government is empowered to enter the location and extinguish them,” the ministry said.

16/10/2023 Telegraph

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Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar lays foundation stone for Ambala Cantonment airport

In a bid to improve connectivity and spur economic activity, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar laid the foundation stone of a domestic airport in Ambala Cantonment on Sunday (October 15). This civil enclave project, sanctioned under the UDAN scheme, is set to occupy 20 acres adjacent to the Air Force Station. 

During the ceremony, attended by officials including Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij, Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala, and Rajya Sabha MP Kartikiye Sharma, Khattar highlighted the airport’s potential to strengthen connectivity with other states and bolster economic activity. 

Additionally, the airport will serve as a complementary facility to the Chandigarh airport. The project will leverage the existing runway of the Ambala Cantonment Airport Station for commercial aircraft landings. 

The Ministry of Defence has granted approval for the Air Force airstrip’s civil aviation use, allocating approximately 20 acres for the civil enclave, with the Haryana government disbursing Rs 133 crore. The Public Works department of Haryana has issued a tender worth Rs 16 crore for the terminal building’s construction and approved Rs 25 crore for other airport infrastructure. 

Deputy Chief Minister Chautala revealed plans for a passenger terminal capable of accommodating at least 200 people simultaneously, expected to be completed within six months. 

The Haryana government has sought permission to operate flights from Ambala to several destinations under the UDAN scheme, including Srinagar, Varanasi, Jaipur, Amritsar, and Delhi. 

16/10/2023 Financial Express

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Study estimates count of UAVs required for the three Services

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan recently ordered two studies to be conducted on major military platforms used by all three services. According to defence sources these platforms are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and armoured helicopters. The study on UAVs has since been completed with a recommendation to acquire 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs and 155 Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAVs.

“The studies, undertaken by triservice teams, are meant to optimise the number of platforms required as well as the resources and avoid duplication,” a defence source with knowledge of the matter explained. “The first study was conducted in August-September and the report has been finalised. For the second study, the Terms of Reference are currently being finalised and the study is expected to begin in a month of two,” two sources independently confirmed.

“The broad outcome of the study on UAVs was a requirement for 31 MQ-9B HALE UAVs and 155 MALE UAVs. While the deal for MQ-9Bs is in progress, the division of the 155 MALE UAVs between the three services is yet to be decided,” the second source stated.

The three services operate a large number of Israeli Heron MALE UAVs. A major upgrade to weaponise and incorporate satellite communication on these UAVs, estimated to cost ₹21000 crore, has been pending for several years. Following the study, officials have expressed confidence that this will now get cleared.

In June, the Defence Ministry cleared the procurement of 31 MQ-9B UAVs from General Atomics, 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians – eight each for the Indian Army and Air Force, at an estimated cost of $3,072 million though the US Foreign Military Sales route.

Last month, just ahead of talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the G20 summit, the Defence Ministry issued the Letter of Request (LoR) to the US Government. Based on LOR, the US Government and MoD will finalise the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) where details of equipment and terms of the procurement would be negotiated and finalised.

16/10/2023 Dinakar Peri/The Hindu

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Prayagraj airport records highest footfall in Sept

Prayagraj: The Prayagraj airport has recorded a footfall of 55,000 passengers in September this year which is the highest in the past four years since the facility became operational in 2019. This achievement is given the fact that the number of flights during this month as compared to 2019 onwards has decreased. These figures are also important because September is off-season in the airline industry but this year, the number of passengers was quite high. This is also the first time since 2019 that the number of passengers has crossed 55,000 in September.

The fourth phase of Mission Shakti programme that aims at women’s safety, dignity and empowerment was launched in the city on Saturday. Under it a public awareness rally was taken out by women police personnel from Police Lines on scooters, ambulances and PRB vehicles. The rally was flagged off by Additional Police Commissioner Pawan Kumar and District Magistrate Navneet Singh Chahal. The rally passed through Lakshmi crossing, Bank Road, Balson Crossing, Chandrashekhar Azad park and ended at the district panchayat premises. Apart from this, a rally was taken out by school girls from the Police Lines to the district panchayat premises. Another programme was organised in the auditorium of district panchayat office which was attended by BJP MP Kesari Devi Patel. On the occasion, 12 women, who have done excellent work in various fields, were honoured with shawls and mementos.

16/10/2023 Pioneer

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Odisha: Puri's Sri Jagannath Greenfield International Airport Receives Site Clearance Approval From MoCA

In a significant development supporting the state government's vision of establishing the Sri Jagannath International Airport in Puri, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has granted site clearance approval for the project.

This clearance comes exactly one year after the government had submitted all the necessary documentation to the ministry, in line with the Greenfield Airports (GFA) Policy of 2008.

While granting this clearance, sources indicate that the MoCA has advised the state government to proceed with the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR) to obtain 'in-principle' approval.

Within two years, the state will need to submit its application, along with the DPR, for consideration by the steering committee responsible for greenfield airports.

Initial estimates suggest that the airport's construction will cost approximately Rs 5,631 crore.

The Puri district administration has already initiated the land acquisition process, encompassing around 1,164 acres, including 68 acres of forest and 221.48 acres of privately owned land in Sipasarubali and Sandhapur under the Brahmagiri tehsil.

Among the private land required for the project, 153.37 acres are in Sipasarubali, and 68.11 acres are in Sandhapur.

Fortunately, no rehabilitation and resettlement are needed, as these land parcels are devoid of human habitation.

An official involved with the project stated, "The project proposal was submitted after identifying the land and conducting a favourable obstacle limitation surfaces (OLS) survey. Public hearings for the acquisition of private land have been completed, and the process is underway for the conversion of some government-owned land. With the site clearance approval now secured, we will expedite the remaining processes," reports The New Indian Express.

To obtain in-principle approval, the government must fulfil the requisite formalities with various regulatory bodies and government agencies.

16/10/2023 V Bhagya Subhashini/SwarajyaMag

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No Flight Operations At Mumbai Airport For 6 Hours Tomorrow

New Delhi: The flight operations at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) will remain temporarily suspended tomorrow due to routine maintenance work on its two runways. The runways in one of the busiest airports in the country will remain shut for six hours as part of a comprehensive post-monsoon runway maintenance plan.

"Both runways - RWY 09/27 and RWY 14/32 - will be temporarily non-operational on 17th October 2023, from 1100 hrs to 1700 hrs," the airport operator said in a statement.

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued to airlines and other stakeholders six months ago, the CSMIA said.

The primary objective of the scheduled closure is to undertake repair and maintenance works essential to uphold the airport's infrastructure to the highest standards, the CSMIA added.

"This yearly practice of runway maintenance post monsoons is a part of the series of activities undertaken with precision and meticulous efforts, ensuring operational continuity and passenger safety, thus bringing to life to vision of imbibing passenger first approach at the core of our operations," it said.

The airport has also scheduled flights in a way to ensure the "smooth" completion of the maintenance.

16/10/2023 NDTV

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Gold pieces worth 1.8cr found in plane toilet

Bengaluru: Pieces of gold worth Rs 1.8 crore hidden inside the toilet of an IndiGo plane that flew from Male, Maldives, to Bengaluru were unearthed by sleuths of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) at Kempegowda International Airport.

The agency is now trying to track the passenger who smuggled in the gold and placed it in the toilet, possibly for an accomplice to retrieve.

Sources said the smuggling bid was foiled at KIA on October 7 evening after the flight touched down. Following specific information, the Bengaluru unit of DRI boarded the flight shortly after passengers disembarked and combed it. The sleuths soon found a packet pasted under the wash basin area of one of the toilets. In it were solid gold pieces weighing 3.2kg. Investigators suspect the gold was placed for another passenger, an accomplice, to board in Bengaluru when the flight turned to a domestic leg. A thorough probe is under way to check any possible role of the airline or airport staff, sources said.

In another operation at KIA on October 9, the DRI Bengaluru team arrested two men from Tamil Nadu who landed in an Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi. They were smuggling in gold paste inside their rectum. After being nabbed by DRI, the youth handed over seven capsules containing a total of 2.8kg of gold, estimated to be worth Rs 1.2 crore in its present market value. Further probe is on to find out if they are part of an international racket.

16/10/2023 Petlee Peter/Times of India

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India amends aircraft rules, commercial pilot licenses to be valid for 10 years

Commercial pilot licenses will now be valid for ten years, with the government amending rules as part of efforts to further improve ease of doing business in the aviation sector. Till now, the validity of Commercial Pilot License (CPL) was for five years and after completion of that period, it had to be renewed.

The civil aviation ministry amended the Aircraft Rules, 1937. Among various changes made, the validity of licenses in relation to Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and CPL holders has been increased from five years to ten years.

"This change is expected to reduce administrative burden on pilots and aviation authorities like DGCA, promoting a more streamlined and efficient licensing process," the ministry said in a statement on Monday. Besides, rules have been amended to address concerns related to the display of lights in the vicinity of an aerodrome.

It has also been clarified that the term 'light' encompasses lantern lights, wish kites, and laser lights. Also, the government's jurisdiction over those exhibiting such lights has been extended from 5 kilometres to 5 nautical miles around an aerodrome. "It is made explicit that the government possesses the authority to take action against individuals displaying lights that disrupt the safe operation of aircraft or pose hazards to the operating crew.

"Should such lights remain unattended for 24 hours, the government is empowered to enter the location and extinguish them," the ministry said. Simultaneously, the matter should be reported to the relevant police station for legal action under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

When the source of the observed light is unidentifiable or if it shifts locations, the airport or airline operator is obligated to promptly report the incident to the local police station, initiating potential criminal proceedings. Another amendment is that the requirement for validation of foreign licenses has been removed. "This change signifies aligning the regulations with the evolving needs of the aviation sector," the ministry said.

16/10/2023 PTI/CNBC TV18

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Assam youths develop AI-driven traffic management platform for drones

Guwahati: As drones revolutionise military, commercial and other activities, an imperative need for 'traffic management' of these flying objects has emerged with a start-up by two entrepreneurs from Assam providing solutions for it.

Already working with the Indian Air Force for detection and counter-measures of drones, the duo has now come out with an intelligent airspace management platform, which was launched at the 'East Tech 2023', a two-day defence expo which concluded on October 11.

"While most companies are making drones, we are focusing on drone airspace management as it's equally important for sustainable growth of the drone ecosystem. Just like automobiles require road traffic management to run safely and efficiently, the same analogy applies for drone airspace," Manash Bhuyan, Managing Director and Co-founder of AVGARDE, told PTI.

Avgarde Systems Pvt Ltd (AVGARDE), co-founded by Manash Bhuyan and Nilutpal Choudhury in 2018, is a startup incubated at IISc Bangalore, and IIT Guwahati.

It is a radio frequency and wireless technology-focused deeptech start-up building an AI-driven object sensing platform for low-altitude airspace management.

Both founders have relocated from Dubai and Germany respectively to pursue their passions.

It has announced launch of 'DeepSense', a platform addressing complex challenges presented by drones in terms of their operational environment which needs to be managed efficiently and effectively to ensure the safety of aviation, public, operators and other stakeholders.

The platform has various applications across multiple market segments, including airports airspace safety, critical infrastructure protection, drone fleet operations, unmanned traffic management, security monitoring, aerospace and defence, amongst others, they claimed.

Explaining the functioning of the AI-based platform developed by the company, Nilutpal Choudhury, CEO and Co-Founder said, "We have already put in place technologies through which drones can be identified, tackled and their movement inhibited. A 'bird detection and monitoring radar' (BDMR) is also among our products which can prevent 'bird aircraft strike hazard' (BASH) for airport operators and ensure aviation safety."

16/10/2023 PTI/Times of India

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Simaero announces the forthcoming opening of an Aviation Training Center in Delhi

Simaero is pleased to announce its latest milestone in the expansion of Simaero India with the  upcoming opening of a state-of-the-art Training Center in Delhi. This announcement marks a  significant step towards fulfilling the growing demand for airline pilot training in the region.

Strategically located within a 10-minute drive from the main terminals of Indira Gandhi  International Airport (IGI), the new Simaero Training Center will be an ideal setting to offer accessible, high-quality, and market-specific training solutions for local airlines. Its proximity to  high-class hotels and recreational facilities will ensure unparalleled comfort for trainees from  across India and beyond. The future Training Center is set to feature eight simulator bays, housing a diverse range of market-specific devices such as the A320, B737 Max, and ATR 72-600 Full-Flight Simulators.

Committed to delivering a comfortable and optimized training environment, the Training  Center will feature a modern ground school classroom equipped with state-of-the-art IT tools for  Computer-Based Training (CBT). Trainees will also have the opportunity to relax and network in  a welcoming lounge area.

16/10/2023 Kanchan Nath/Travel Daily Media

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SpiceJet plane faces tech issue in Tel Aviv, aircraft taken to Jordan

A SpiceJet aircraft that operated a flight from the national capital to Tel Aviv on Sunday is facing a technical issue and the plane has been taken to Jordan to rectify the problem, according to sources. SpiceJet had operated the flight, with an A340 aircraft, under Operation Ajay.

On Monday, the sources said that after landing at Tel Aviv, a technical issue was detected in the aircraft. To rectify the problem, the plane has been taken to Jordan, which was the nearest place that has the facilities to look into the issue, they added. There was no immediate comment from SpiceJet.

On Sunday, SpiceJet said it will be operating a flight with an A340 plane to Tel Aviv. Operation Ajay has been launched by the government to facilitate the return of Indians who wish to come back from Israel where an intense conflict is going on with militant group Hamas.

16/10/2023 PTI/CNBC TV18

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Bengaluru customs seize 2.3 kg gold worth over Rs 1.3 crore at Kempegowda airport in three days

Bengaluru: The Customs officials at the Kempegowda International Airport seized 598 grams of gold concealed inside a pasta maker. The passenger arrived in Bengaluru from Dubai on Indigo flight 6E-1486. Gold worth Rs 35,37,768 was concealed inside the rods of the pasta machine, according to the Customs officials.

Bengaluru Customs officials had seized 1.7 kg of gold and four Dell laptops from three separate passengers on October 12 and 13. The passengers arrived in Bengaluru from Singapore, Kuwait, and Colombo. The seized gold was worth Rs 1 crore and one passenger was arrested in connection with the seizure.

The passenger who arrived from Singapore concealed the gold inside shoes, trousers packet, and laptops. The seized laptops were worth Rs 1,19, 412. The passenger who arrived from Kuwait concealed 689 grams of gold in his rectum. Gold weighing 103.33 grams was concealed in the undergarments of the passenger who arrived from Colombo.

16/10/2023 Muralidhara Sampangishetty/news nine

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Vistara Retains 2nd Spot With 10% Share Of India’s Domestic Market

India’s air traffic continues to increase year-on-year, with September also registering similar growth patterns. While IndiGo remains far ahead of other airlines, Vistara increased its market share slightly to maintain its second spot in the overall rankings. September, however, was not a good month for punctuality, as all major Indian carriers performed poorly compared to the previous month. Let’s take a look at what the DGCA’s data reveals.

India’s full-service carrier, Vistara climbed to the No.2 position in August with a 9.8% market share. Data from India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), revealed that Vistara maintained its 2nd spot with a marginal market share increase to 10% in September.

This is the first time in quite a while that any Indian carrier has reached a two-digit figure in domestic market share, apart from IndiGo, which maintains its eye-watering lead with a share of 63.4%.

Air India, another Tata Group airline, was next on the list with a market share of 9.8%, while AirAsia India came fourth with a share of 6.7%. SpiceJet commanded 4.4% of the Indian market, while Akasa Air was at the bottom of the list of major carriers, with a share of 4.2%.

Akasa enjoyed a great run earlier this year when it surpassed SpiceJet in market share. But it has recently been plagued by several flight cancellations amid a crunch of qualified pilots, leading to a slip in rankings.

Overall, India’s domestic carriers flew more than 112 million passengers from January to September, registering an annual growth of 29.10 % and a monthly growth of 18.26 %.

Vistara also reported good numbers in the passenger load factor department, coming out on top with a load factor of 92. SpiceJet, which traditionally aces the load factor rankings, was at the no.2 spot for a second month in a row, with a load factor of 91.4.

16/10/2023 Gaurav Joshi/Simple Flying

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Indian steel giant front-runner to buy Go First - reports

Details are emerging in Indian media identifying entities that have lodged expressions of interest (EOIs) to buy insolvent Go First (GOW, Mumbai International). Applications closed on September 28, with the front runner reportedly Indian steel company Jindal Power. While several local and foreign airlines have also submitted EOIs, at least two foreign applicants are believed to be out of contention because their EOIs did not satisfy certain stipulated conditions.

Out-of-pocket lenders are reportedly backing any Hisar-based Jindal Steel & Power bid. Go First's resolution professional, Shailendra Ajmera, has so far accepted claims worth USD2.9 billion from operational and financial creditors. The airline's biggest lenders included the Central Bank of India, the Bank of Baroda, IDBI Bank, and Deutsche Bank. Go First suspended operations in May 2023. It has since secured approval from India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to restart, albeit on a scaled down basis and under certain conditions. However, the airline has not yet managed to resume operations.

Jindal is a publicly listed company on the Bombay Stock Exchange with a market capitalisation of INR695 billion Indian rupees (USD8.35 billion). The Jindal family, now headed by Naveen Jindal, owns around 60.5% of the shares on issue.

The company was issued with a non-scheduled air operators permit by India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation in 2008 and formerly operated a Cessna 560 XL/XLS registered as VT-JSS (msn 560-5594). However, that aircraft was written off after a runway excursion at Vidyanagar in mid-2020.

According to sources close to talks, having lodged the EOI, Jindal is now conducting due diligence and attempting to value Go First's remaining assets. It is unclear whether they propose restarting Go First themselves or want to take on a strategic partner. However, interested parties cannot access the insolvent company's financial records without formally submitting an EOI.

16/10/2023 ch-aviation

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India-made light combat aircraft Mark 1A to be equipped with indigenous systems

Amid the government's push towards indigenisation in the military, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will equip its made-in-India Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A fighter jets with 'Uttam' radar and 'Angad' electronic warfare suite, replacing the imported systems installed earlier.

The IAF has already commissioned 83 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets, with plans to order an additional 97 in the near future. "The Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array radar and Angad electronic warfare suite are in the advanced stages of development. They will be ready for integration with the LCA Mark 1A aircraft soon," defence officials told Indiatoday.in.

The current replacement plan, starting from the 41st aircraft in the order of 83 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets, includes an Indian-made electronic warfare suite and AESA radar. Different laboratories of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) are executing the projects.

The 'Uttam' radar, currently in the development phase, has presented very promising results and is also being contemplated for use in high-end fighter jets.

The move to retrofit the LCA with home-grown weapon systems is expected to save millions in foreign exchange while simultaneously creating employment opportunities in the defence sector.

16/10/2023 Manjeet Negi/India Today

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Make the aviation business cost-effective

India needs a thriving aviation sector, but for that to happen it has to ensure one or two players do not dominate the sector. Currently, there is a clear duopoly with IndiGo and Tatas (through Air India, Air Asia and Vistara) enjoying 90 percent of the market share. The two big players strengthened their grip over the market after Go Air went out of business in May this year. Meanwhile, SpiceJet, which has been struggling with its finances, and Akasa, which has been seeing many of its pilots leave, keep losing their market share to the big two. While smaller players need to get their houses in order to thrive in the business, the government must ensure the cost of airline operations does not go through the roof.

Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) costs account for around 40 percent of the operation costs of airlines in India. While international crude oil prices have a direct bearing on the ATF prices, high and complex taxes on ATF in India make the situation worse for airlines. There have been demands to bring ATF under the Goods and Services Tax. This will serve two purposes—taxes will be lower and airlines will be able to claim input tax credit on GST paid on fuels. The government must also ensure that airports do not charge unnecessary fees from airlines or passengers. An airline spends 8-10 percent of its total expenses on airport charges such as landing fees, parking fees and aerobridge fees. The aviation industry, along with the government, also needs to find a solution to the skill deficit in the industry. Indian airlines are severely constrained by the shortage of pilots, and the same was evident from the recent crisis in Akasa Air. India needs to develop domestic capabilities for aircraft maintenance and repair. Engine problems and a shortage of mechanics ensure over 20 percent of airlines remain grounded.

The aviation sector is a difficult business to be in. Scores of airlines, including big names such as Jet Airways and Kingfisher, have shut shop. A strong aviation sector can propel growth for an expanding economy like India’s. The government has ensured over the years that the aviation infrastructure expands and newer towns are connected through air. However, unless the running costs of the industry are within the scope of commercial viability, the sector cannot prosper.

16/10/2023 New Indian Express

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Air India Welcomes First Airbus A320neo From 2022 Lease Agreement

Air India’s aircraft deals and lease agreements after privatization are gradually bearing results. After taking deliveries of four Airbus A321neos on lease in the last few months, the carrier has now welcomed its first A320neo since becoming a private carrier. The latest aircraft is part of the leasing agreement Air India signed last year, which included 21 A320neos and four A321neos.

Air India has taken delivery of its first Airbus A320neo aircraft since becoming a private airline. The plane is part of a leasing agreement signed by the carrier last year to develop its fleet for immediate capacity enhancement.

The plane, registered as VT-RTF, is the first of nine A320neos ordered on lease from China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC). The remaining eight will be delivered in the coming months through 2024. Winnie Liu, Executive Director, and CCO of CALC, commented,“We thank Air India for their trust in CALC. CALC is delighted to be embarking on another collaboration with our longstanding customer Air India to support the airline’s robust growth with the latest technology aircraft.”

VT-RTF is part of a leasing agreement signed by Air India last year for 30 aircraft, including five Boeing 777-200LRs and 25 Airbus narrowbody planes. Four of the 25 narrowbodies are A321neos (already delivered), and the remaining are A320neos.

Air India Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson told his employees in a message that the remaining 20 A320neos will progressively arrive between now and August 2024. He also spoke about the delivery status of the carrier’s latest widebody type – the Airbus A350 – adding, “We also took delivery of our second A350 (VT-JRB), which is now undergoing livery changes and other modifications in Toulouse before arriving in New Delhi in January 2024.”

16/10/2023 Gaurav Joshi/Simple Flying

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