Air India resists, IndiGo backs Navi Mumbai airport shift

The aviation landscape in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region is witnessing a significant divide as major carriers respond to the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority’s (AERA) latest consultation paper on the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA).

While IndiGo has voiced strong support for the project's potential, Air India and international bodies have flagged financial and operational burden of the transition.

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has taken a bullish stance on the new airport, challenging the current traffic estimates as being too low. In its submission to AERA, the airline pointed out that more than 140 daily movements are already being handled at the site, which equates to roughly 9.4 million seats annually.

The carrier predicts that with a 90 percent seat factor, NMIA could see nearly 8.5 million passengers in its very first year of operation. "In our view, the number of passengers expected to be handled at NMIA in the first year of operation will be nearly 8.5 million," the airline said.

Given the aggressive fleet expansions across the industry, "it is estimated that the airport’s projected installed capacity will get fully utilized at an early date", IndiGo said.

29/04/2026 Swaraj Baggonkar/Moneycontrol

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India Moves to Cap Airport Bids as Adani Eyes Clean Sweep of 11 Airports

India is preparing to impose limits on bids by a single entity in the planned privatisation of 11 airports, amid growing concerns over market concentration, The Economic Times reported. The move follows rising fears of monopolistic dominance in the aviation sector, which came under scrutiny after the IndiGo crisis last year.

According to the report, government officials involved in the process said discussions have begun on structuring bidding rules to encourage competition while preventing excessive concentration of assets in the hands of a single player.

Govt may limit a single entity to two airport blocks (four airports) to prevent market concentration.

Move gains urgency as Adani signals aggressive bids for all 11 airports, echoing its 2018 sweep.

Airlines warn of operational shutdown risks as ATF prices surge amid the West Asia conflict and rising crude.

India is preparing to impose limits on bids by a single entity in the planned privatisation of 11 airports, amid growing concerns over market concentration, The Economic Times reported. The move follows rising fears of monopolistic dominance in the aviation sector, which came under scrutiny after the IndiGo crisis last year.

According to the report, government officials involved in the process said discussions have begun on structuring bidding rules to encourage competition while preventing excessive concentration of assets in the hands of a single player.

In the 2018 privatisation round, no such cap was imposed, allowing Adani Enterprises to emerge as the highest bidder for all six airports on offer. Adani Group Director Jeet Adani has since indicated that the group will aggressively pursue all 11 airports in the upcoming round, prompting policymakers to consider safeguards.

However, some officials caution that imposing strict limits could make bidders more conservative and potentially reduce auction proceeds.

Under the proposal, a single entity would be allowed to win a maximum of two blocks—equivalent to four airports. If the same bidder tops a third block, the next-highest bidder would be given the option to match the winning price. The final decision will rest with the Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee.

The upcoming privatisation round will include seven smaller airports bundled with six larger ones in similar geographies, in a bid to make less commercially viable assets more attractive to investors.

Under this model, Varanasi will be paired with Kushinagar and Gaya, Amritsar with Kangra, Bhubaneswar with Tirupati , Raipur with Aurangabad , and Trichy with Hubli.

Officials across ministries remain divided. A senior civil aviation ministry official noted that airports inherently carry monopoly risks, and excessive concentration could pose systemic threats.

29/04/2026 Outlook

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Jaipur airport becomes Raj’s first water-positive airport

Jaipur: Jaipur International Airport has achieved water positivity, becoming the first airport in Rajasthan and among a select few in India to earn the distinction, officials said Tuesday.

A water-positive facility is one that replenishes more water than it consumes, balancing the total freshwater use with water savings from improved efficiency, reuse and replenishment. A water-positive facility becomes a water provider from a water consumer.

Between April 2025 and March 2026, the airport consumed 103.39 MLD of water while conserving 137.09 MLD through recharge pits and recycled water use, effectively replenishing more water than it used. In northern India, it is the second such airport after Delhi’s IGI Airport.

Officials said the certification was awarded by global consulting firm Bureau Veritas after a detailed assessment of the airport’s water management systems.

“Operating in a water-scarce region, Jaipur International Airport has always been committed to efficient management of water through responsible stewardship, operational sustainability, for long-term resilience,” an official spokesperson said. “Over the past few years, the airport has taken multiple steps in ensuring judicious use of water. The airport has installed 18 deep aquifer recharge pits to support rainwater harvesting and groundwater replenishment,” he added.

According to officials, the achievement rests on three key pillars: 100% recycling and reuse of treated water, reduction in freshwater consumption, and robust rainwater harvesting infrastructure.

28/04/2026 Times of India

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AAI Invites E-Tenders for Automated Parking System at Dehradun Airport

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has invited e-tenders for the grant of license for the Supply, Installation, Testing and Commissioning (SITC) and operation of an Automated Vehicle Parking Management System at Dehradun Airport. The project also includes the collection of parking and lane pick-up fees, aimed at improving passenger convenience and streamlining airport parking operations through advanced automation.

The initiative is part of AAI’s ongoing efforts to modernise airport infrastructure and enhance digital service delivery across Indian airports. The automated system is expected to improve traffic flow, strengthen revenue management, and provide a seamless parking experience for passengers and visitors.

28/04/2026 Ganesh Kahar/PSU Connect

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Delhi Airport Issues Advisory, Warns of Flight Disruptions Amid Thunderstorms

Amid inclement weather conditions across North India, airport authorities have said operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport remain normal, though some flight schedules may be impacted due to adverse conditions. Citing the forecast by the India Meteorological Department, officials said thundershowers in the region could lead to delays in departures and arrivals. Ground teams are working closely with stakeholders to ensure minimal disruption and a smooth travel experience for passengers.

"As per the Indian Meteorological Department's forecast, North India is experiencing inclement weather conditions. Delhi Airport operation remains normal however some flight schedules may be impacted," the Delhi airport said. 

Travellers have been advised to plan their commute in advance and consider alternative transport options to reach the airport. Authorities recommended using the Delhi Metro, with the Magenta Line connecting to Terminal 1 and the Airport Express Line serving Terminals 2 and 3, to avoid possible traffic delays caused by weather conditions.

Meanwhile, airline IndiGo has also issued a travel advisory, warning that flights to and from Delhi could be affected. The airline urged passengers to check their flight status via its website or app before leaving for the airport and to allow extra travel time.

27/04/2026 Sneha/ABP Live

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Coca-Cola India launches digital activation at BLR Airport

 Coca-Cola India has partnered with Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL) to introduce an innovative digital activation at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. This initiative, launched on 23 April 2026, allows passengers to receive a complimentary chilled Coca-Cola by enrolling in Pulse, BLR Airport's official app. The activation aims to enhance the travel experience by offering a refreshing moment amidst the journey.

The collaboration between Coca-Cola India, a leading beverage company, and BLR Airport, one of India's fastest-growing airports, is designed to seamlessly integrate digital convenience with refreshment. Passengers can easily participate by scanning a QR code displayed on digital screens within the terminals, enrolling in the app, and redeeming their drink at a dedicated Coke Zone. This approach ensures a frictionless experience for travellers.

Abhishek Gupta, Vice President of Customer Development at Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, highlighted the significance of airports as engaging consumer spaces. 

28/04/2026 Travel Daily Media

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Noida airport gets final security clearance, may see flights take off in first week of June

New Delhi: Days after it replaced its expat CEO with an Indian one to overcome a regulatory hurdle, Noida International Airport (NIA) on Monday received its final clearance, allowing preparations to begin for commercial launch.

With Bureau of Civil Aviation Security clearing the aerodrome security programme (ASP), Noida airport’s launch airline partners — IndiGo, Air India Express and Akasa — are expected to start selling tickets for domestic flights soon.

The first flight from NIA is likely to take off in the first week of June.

An aviation ministry official said, “First week of June will be an important time for Delhi-NCR’s aerial connectivity. While NIA will start domestic operations, Delhi’s IGI Airport will start its hub-and-spoke operations to enable seamless transfers (like the ones at Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Singapore or Frankfurt) between domestic and international flights.”

This means Delhi’s IGI will set into motion the process of turning into a hub airport for international flyers from different cities, giving them a smoother transit experience that integrates certain processes at the spoke airport with the hub airport.

The double boost for aviation in Delhi-NCR comes at a challenging time for airlines, which are battling cost overruns and a fall in international travel because of the US-Israel war with Iran.

IGI Airport’s international capacity, incidentally, will increase from a little over 2 crore passengers annually to 3.2 crore after the recently converted international pier at Delhi IGIA’s T3 (Pier C) becomes operational next week. In about a month from that, seamless transfers will start and airside transit will also be rolled out between T1 and T3.

So, while India’s busiest airport, IGIA, begins its journey to becoming a hub, NIA will take flight as Delhi’s second international airport.

28/04/2026 Times of India

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Jodhpur airport to resume flight ops from today after month-long runway repairs

Jodhpur: Jodhpur airport will reopen for civil flight operations from Tuesday after remaining closed for nearly a month due to runway repair work. The first flight -- IndiGo service from Bengaluru, is scheduled to arrive at 8:45 am.

Airport director Manoj Uniyal said that connectivity with multiple cities will be restored, allowing passengers to access regular services again.

The airport was shut for commercial flights from March 29 (6:30 pm) to April 27 (6:30 pm) following a Notice to Air Missions issued for runway re-carpeting by the Indian Air Force. During this period, all civil flight operations remained suspended.

The Jodhpur airport is a joint-use facility where both military and civilian aircraft operate on the same runway, making periodic maintenance essential.

28/04/2026 Times of India

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Vivekananda Nayak Appointed as Chief Financial Officer – Designate at GMR Hyderabad Airport

Hyderabad: Vivekananda Nayak has taken on the role of Chief Financial Officer – Designate at GMR Hyderabad Airport, bringing extensive experience across strategic finance, project finance, capital allocation, funding, investor interface, financial governance, private equity engagement, compliance, and infrastructure finance.

In his new role, Vivekananda Nayak will lead the finance function for GMR Hyderabad Airport, driving financial strategy, capital allocation, funding, and investor engagement while ensuring robust governance within a regulatory and concession-led framework. His role will also focus on value creation across a diversified airport platform spanning aero, non-aero, MRO, and commercial land development.

Vivekananda has been associated with GMR Group for nearly two decades, building deep finance leadership experience across infrastructure and strategic finance functions. Before taking on his new role at GMR Hyderabad Airport, he served as Vice President – Strategic Finance at GMR Group, where he worked across strategic finance, equity, project finance, and related business priorities.

Earlier at GMR Group, Vivekananda served as General Manager in a CFO-1 level role. His responsibilities included presenting to the Board of Directors, managing private equity investors, preparing business plans, handling project and working capital funding, engaging with Big Four auditors, ensuring tax, statutory, audit and consolidation compliances, and managing a finance team of more than 20 members.

28/04/2026 Smita Singh/HR Today

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Juhu airport runway faces a cut, minaret stands tall

As a 37-metre-tall minaret of a nearby mosque stands in its way, the Airports Authority of India plans to issue a notice to Juhu airport to shorten its 732-metre runway by 300 metres.

The Airports Authority of India plans to issue a notice to Juhu airport to shorten its runway by 300 metres, which will reduce the 732-metre strip by almost half and jeopardise operations. Sources said at least 40 per cent of operations, mainly by Pawan Hans and ONGC, will be hit.

17/04/2026 Mid Day

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Security Scare at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport: Hoax Bomb Threat Defused

An email threatening a bomb attack at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport prompted a significant security response on Monday. The suspicious email led airport authorities to conduct extensive screening measures.

However, investigators later dismissed the threat as a hoax, finding no evidence of danger during comprehensive security checks.

27/04/2026 Devdiscourse

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Jalgaon: New Air Service To Delhi Via Indore From May 2, Trial Run Begins

Jalgaon: After a long wait, a major demand of Jalgaon residents is finally being met, as Alliance Air is set to launch a commercial flight service connecting Jalgaon to New Delhi via Indore from May 2. The service will begin on a trial basis and will continue depending on the response from passengers. District Collector Rohan Ghuge expressed confidence that this new route will strengthen the city’s industrial, commercial, and tourism sectors.

At present, Jalgaon has air connectivity with cities such as Pune, Mumbai, Goa, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad through airlines like Alliance Air and Fly91. For a long time, residents had been demanding direct air links to Indore, New Delhi, and Jaipur. A large number of traders and business professionals frequently travel to Indore, and this service is expected to benefit them significantly, along with tourists visiting Madhya Pradesh. Union Minister of State Raksha Khadse played an important role in making this service possible.

The Jalgaon–Indore–New Delhi flight will operate on a trial basis from May 2 to May 31. Its continuation will depend on passenger demand. The service is expected to benefit people from Jalgaon, Dhule, and Buldhana districts, as well as parts of the Vidarbha region. 

27/04/2026 Vijay Pathak/Free Press Journal

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Mysuru airport runway expansion gains pace, leaders call for encumbrance-free land

Mysuru: Mysore-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar and MLA of Chamundeshwari constituency G T Devegowda urged for a close inter-departmental coordination among the officials to ensure that the land acquired for the Mysuru Airport expansion is encumbrance free, so that the project can be completed at the earliest. 

They participated in a meeting on the development of Mysuru Airport,  convened by Mysuru Airport Director P V Usha Kumari at the Mysuru Airport Community Hall, on Saturday.

They discussed on the phase I expansion of runway 09/27, currently measuring 1,740 meters x 30 meters - suitable for ATR-72 aircraft, to 2,300 meters x 45 meters to accommodate larger Airbus A-320 and Boeing 737-type operations.

This requires 240 acres of land, of which 206 acres have been acquired by KIADB, with compensation fully disbursed to landowners (with disputed amounts deposited in court), while the remaining 34 acres is government land.

Usha Kumari appraised regarding the pending compensation issue of the revenue layout formed on 7 acres on Mandakalli/north side of the airport, which is crucial for the runway's basic strip.

26/04/2026 Shilpa P/Deccan Herald

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Where are Kaddu and Dholu? Delhi Airport faces heat over missing dogs

Public anger is brewing across the country over the alleged “illegal” removal and "mistreatment" of community dogs by authorities at Delhi’s IGI Airport, after a series of disturbing videos went viral on social media.

One widely circulated video shows a brown stray dog, Dholu, being tied with ropes and dragged across Terminal 1 by sanitation workers on April 2. Animal rights activists have alleged the use of wire nooses and rough handling, describing the incident as a clear case of cruelty.

In a separate incident days earlier, Kaddu — a 14-year-old, toothless female dog familiar to regular flyers — reportedly disappeared from Terminal 3. Local feeders claim she was forcibly relocated by airport authorities, in violation of animal protection laws.

The videos have sparked online campaigns under hashtags such as #JusticeForDholu and #BringKadduBack, drawing widespread condemnation from animal lovers and frequent travellers alike.

“It is evident from the videos that the two friendly dogs have been unlawfully removed by airport authorities. We demand that long-time community dogs be allowed to remain on airport premises,” said Gurgaon resident Mini Mehra, a frequent flyer.

Activists have since escalated the matter legally, seeking action against airport authorities and their contractors for allegedly violating India’s Animal Birth Control Rules, which prohibit the relocation of sterilized community dogs from their designated territories.

A Delhi court has also intervened, asking local police to explain why no FIR has been registered so far. The next hearing is scheduled for April 29.

Meanwhile, airport operator Delhi International Airport Limited has defended its actions, citing passenger safety concerns. The administration maintains that stray dogs are cared for under veterinary supervision and that any intervention is conducted responsibly.

"We also want to inform you that the brown dog... has been carefully handled, calmed, and gently returned to its familiar area. Our approach remains rooted in care, safety, and responsible management," Delhi Airport tweeted recently.

26/04/2026 Times of India

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Airlines In No Hurry To Shift To Navi Mumbai Airport, Warns Air India

Air India has resisted predictions of a swift relocation of airlines to the recently inaugurated Navi Mumbai International Airport, informing the aviation regulator AERA in a formal letter that airlines will be unlikely to rush to move out from the current airport in Mumbai.

The airline, in an April 16 letter written to the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA), said it didn’t share predictions of the “sheer enthusiasm” on the part of airline operators to migrate to the Navi Mumbai International Airport, given three prime reasons: higher aeronautical tariffs at the new airport, absence of sufficient road and Metro connectivity to Navi Mumbai, and higher operational costs associated with a dual airport operation-operating flights from two separate airports simultaneously.

Also, the airline highlighted the unclear status of the closure of Terminal 1 of the current Mumbai airport, which was believed to be a major catalyst driving airlines to the new facility. AERA is currently in discussions with aviation stakeholders regarding the aeronautical charges that would be imposed at the Navi Mumbai airport between 2025 to 2030. Both the Mumbai airports are owned by the Adani Group.

Air India’s dissent, the country’s biggest airline, marks a slower and possibly contentious migration to Navi Mumbai airport.

25/04/2026 Pune Mirror

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‘Bengaluru’s Soul’ sculpture unveiled at Kempegowda airport

Bengaluru: Biocon Foundation in collaboration with Kempegowda International Airport here on Saturday unveiled ‘Bengaluru’s Soul’, a monumental sculpture by renowned Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, at the Arrival Forecourt of Terminal 2, officials said.

The installation was unveiled by H E Juan Antonio March Pujol, Ambassador of Spain to India, in the presence of IT Minister Priyank Kharge, with Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson, Biocon Group, and Hari Marar, Managing Director and CEO, Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), in attendance, alongside artist Jaume Plensa.

According to BIAL statement, installed in painted stainless steel and measuring 500 x 319 x 375 cm, ‘Bengaluru’s Soul’ reflects the city’s diversity, creativity, and global outlook.

The installation reinforces BLR Airport’s vision of integrating art, culture, and infrastructure to create a distinctive and immersive gateway for travellers.

26/04/2026 Hans India

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Mangaluru airport bags CII zero waste certification

Mangaluru: Mangaluru International Airport Limited has achieved the Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL) Certification from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), marking a significant milestone in its sustainability journey and reaffirming its commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

The airport has been awarded the Platinum Class I Rating, the highest category under the certification, after demonstrating an exceptional landfill diversion rate of more than 99 per cent through waste management practices and strict adherence to sustainability benchmarks.

The certification follows a comprehensive and rigorous audit conducted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), which evaluated the airport’s waste segregation, handling, treatment, recycling and compliance processes.

26/04/2026 Deccan Herald

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AAI engineers' body raises concerns over proposed ATC privatisation plan

ATSEPA, an electronic engineers' body at Airports Authority of India (AAI), has raised concerns over the proposed privatisation of air traffic control services, saying that shifting control away from the Authority without establishing an autonomous regulatory entity could be perceived as a policy decision that weakens India's national strategic capabilities.

In a letter to Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu on April 23, Air Traffic Safety Electronic Personnel Association (India) General Secretary YP Gautam said the matter warrants urgent reconsideration at the highest policy level.

"The proposal to introduce private participation in Air Traffic Control services, without first operationalising an independent Air Navigation Services (ANS) structure, is viewed with grave concern," he said.

Stating that the matter is not exploratory, he said the carving out of ANS (ATC + CNS) from AAI has already been "deliberated, accepted in principle, and partially implemented" during the tenure of (late AAI Chairman) Guru Prasad Mohapatra.

Alleging that the rollback of that framework has resulted in the present structural inconsistency, he said, "Proceeding with privatisation in the absence of an autonomous ANS entity will be perceived as a policy decision that weakens an existing national capability rather than strengthening it".

Creating a system where ANS remains a dependent internal unit while competing with private entities will be seen as institutional disadvantage by design, the association said.

25/04/2026 PTI/Business Standard

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Airport360 Expo 2026 Concludes in Mumbai

India’s aviation sector is entering a decisive phase of growth, with airport development shifting from capacity creation to performance-driven, efficient, and passenger-centric ecosystems. Reflecting this transition, Airport360 Expo 2026 successfully concluded today at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, bringing together key stakeholders from across the global aviation landscape.

Airport360 Expo 2026 was formally opened by prominent leaders from across the aviation ecosystem, including Sharad Kumar, Chief Advisor at Airports Authority of India; B V J K Sharma, CEO of Navi Mumbai International Airport; Shankar Dey of dormakaba India; Susanta Sharma of Aurionpro; and Taher Patrawala of Media Fusion. Their presence reflected a collective commitment to strengthening airport infrastructure and improving operational preparedness across India.

Speaking on the sector’s transformation, Sharad Kumar noted that India’s aviation industry is at a critical juncture where sustained growth will depend on clear strategic direction. He highlighted global trends such as digital adoption, sustainability, and stronger linkages between aviation, logistics, tourism, and trade. He also pointed out that geopolitical uncertainties continue to influence routes, costs, and efficiency.

Offering insights on growth and infrastructure, B V J K Sharma underlined that India is already among the top global domestic aviation markets, with passenger traffic showing strong upward momentum. He emphasised that continued expansion of airports, backed by national initiatives and increasing aircraft orders, will support future demand.

25/04/2026 Machine Maker

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Noida International Airport Nears Take-Off as Indian Interim CEO Appointed; Flights to 17 Cities Likely Soon

In a crucial administrative move that could accelerate the launch of commercial flight operations, Noida International Airport has appointed Indian national Nitu Samra as Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with immediate effect, clearing a key regulatory hurdle that had delayed the airport’s final security clearance from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).

Samra, who has been serving as Chief Financial Officer since October 2021, will hold charge until the Board appoints a full-time CEO. The appointment assumes significance as BCAS norms require the chief executive of an operational airport in India to be an Indian citizen. The absence of such compliance had emerged as one of the major reasons behind the delay in issuance of final operational security approval.

Airport officials are now hopeful that with the leadership restructuring completed, the pending BCAS clearance may be granted shortly, paving the way for commencement of passenger flight services from the much-awaited Jewar airport.

According to the airport’s initial route development plan, Noida International Airport is expected to begin operations with connectivity to nearly 17 cities, with domestic flights likely to be rolled out in the first phase.

Key domestic destinations include Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Dehradun and Hubballi, while international services are planned to destinations such as Zurich, Singapore and Dubai as the airport scales up its network. The original operational blueprint envisaged around 30 aircraft movements in the opening phase, including 25 domestic, three international and two cargo services.

This will mark the formal entry of Noida International Airport as North India’s second major civil aviation gateway after Delhi, significantly easing traffic pressure on Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Developed at Jewar in Gautam Buddha Nagar district with IATA code DXN, Noida International Airport is being positioned as a strategic greenfield aviation hub for Delhi-NCR and western Uttar Pradesh.

25/04/2026 Indian PSU

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KIA to be one of four airport hubs, easing global air travel

New Delhi: Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) is part of India's plan to develop four airport hubs to enable seamless transfers mirroring those in Dubai, Doha, Singapore and Frankfurt. While the hub-and-spoke model will roll out first at Delhi IGIA from June 1, the aviation ministry has begun work on the other three: KIA, Mumbai and Rajkot Hirasar.

Once the infrastructure is in place, passengers can fly into these airports from multiple cities within India and then connect smoothly to international flights.

For instance, a passenger flying Lucknow-Delhi-London can do a check-in of baggage at Lucknow itself if both flights (Lucknow to Delhi, and Delhi to London) are of the same airline or of code-share partner carriers. This eliminates the need to collect and recheck bags at the hub. Customs and immigration processes will also be streamlined at the hub airport, making transfers more efficient than before.

While India already has modern airport infrastructure that requires tweaks, it hopes to have strong airlines, apart from IndiGo, once the Air India group gets its act together and others like Akasa grow with time.

"For each hub, we are identifying spoke partners. The idea is to ensure a passenger — flying from Raipur to Oman via Rajkot, for instance — is able to clear customs and immigration at Raipur itself and then take the connecting flight to Oman from Rajkot. The return journey will be equally smooth," said a senior official.

25/04/2026 Saurabh Sinha/Times of India

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Air India hesitant to shift part of operations to new greenfield facility at Navi Mumbai

 Air India is hesitant to shift a part of its operations from the existing Mumbai Airport to the new greenfield facility at Navi Mumbai as it would lead to additional costs and reduced efficiencies.

According to the Tata Group airline, the aviation industry has been facing severe and unprecedented challenges amid the current geopolitical instability and "dramatic" rise in jet fuel prices, among several other operational restrictions.

After reviewing the proposal for determination of aeronautical tariffs for Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) for the first control period (April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2030), the Tata Group-owned airline, in its submission to the airport tariff regulator Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA), said it "disagrees" with the assumption of strong airline demand to shift operations to the Navi Mumbai International Airport for several reasons.

"We respectfully disagree with the assumption of strong airline demand to shift operations to NMI... until sufficient volume at NMI allows efficiencies of scale, splitting operations between BOM & NMI adds costs and reduces efficiencies," the airline said.

Airline, in its submission, also said that the aeronautical charges at the new facility are "significantly higher", while insufficient connectivity limits traffic catchment.

Until future developments in connectivity (such as direct metro connection) are completed, majority of the passengers in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region will choose the existing Mumbai International Airport, it said, adding that at the same time, the planned closure of Terminal 1 (which operates only domestic flights) has been delayed and, in fact, will be in a phased manner.

25/04/2026 PTI/ET Infra

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Little girl runs up to CISF personnel at airport, gives him the cutest salute ever

A little girl ran up to a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel at an airport and saluted him, melting hearts online with her innocent gesture of respect for the uniform.

The video was shared by the official X account of CISF, where it was posted with the caption: "Watch as a little girl offers a heartfelt salute to our personnel at the airport. It’s not just a gesture; it’s a reflection of the deep respect and pride that even our youngest citizens carry for the uniform."

They then added, writing, "When innocence meets duty, the result is pure magic. This beautiful interaction reminds us why we serve, to keep this spirit of love and security alive for the generations to come."

In the clip, the little girl was seen running towards the CISF personnel standing at the airport. He looked down at her in surprise as she suddenly stopped in front of him, raised her hand in a crisp salute, smiled brightly, and then quickly ran back to the person recording the moment, leaving him visibly touched and amused.

25/04/2026 India Today

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Noida International Airport elevates CFO Nitu Samra as interim CEO to start flight operations

New Delhi: Noida International Airport has appointed Nitu Samra as interim chief executive officer in an urgent stop-gap measure to start flight operations after Christoph Schnellmann was denied security clearance.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) rejected the security clearance of Schnellmann as CEO as he is not an Indian national, as ET reported on Wednesday.

Samra, who has been serving as chief financial officer of the airport, will serve as interim CEO until the company board finalises a new chief executive, the airport said in a statement on Friday.

Schnellmann, who has led the airport as CEO since August 2020, will join its board of directors as executive vice chairman.

While the airport received its aerodrome license from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in March, its aerodrome security programme (ASP) has yet to be approved by BCAS.

A 2011 order by the aviation security regulator mandates that the CEO of any greenfield Indian airport shall be its security coordinator, responsible for coordinating the implementation of security measures.

"This management change brings the airport into compliance with security requirements while maintaining continuity in the airport's leadership team," said Daniel Bircher, chairman of Zurich airport-owned Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd, which is the holding company of the airport.

25/04/2026 Economic Times

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Who is Nitu Samra, interim CEO of Noida International Airport?

 Noida: Nitu Samra, a senior finance professional with over two decades of experience in corporate financial leadership, has been appointed interim Chief Executive Officer of Noida International Airport after a regulatory directive required that the airport’s top executive be an Indian national.

Her appointment follows directions from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), which led to Swiss national Christoph Schnellmann stepping down as CEO. Schnellmann, who had been leading the project since 2020, will continue with the organisation as Executive Vice Chairman on the Board of Directors.

Samra has been serving as Chief Financial Officer of the airport since October 2021 and has been part of its core leadership team throughout its development phase. In her interim CEO role, she will oversee the transition as the airport moves closer to the start of commercial operations.

The airport said the leadership change ensures compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining continuity during a critical stage of execution and commissioning.

A Chartered Accountant from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and a commerce graduate from Delhi University, Samra has held senior finance leadership roles across private sector organisations, including serving as Finance Director at LeasePlan India Pvt Ltd.

Developed by Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd (YIAPL), a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG, Noida International Airport is among India’s largest greenfield aviation projects. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 28.

24/04/2026 Mathrubhumi

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Civil Aviation Minister Reviews Readiness for Delhi Airport Hub-and-Spoke Operations

Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, today reviewed the readiness of Delhi Airport for the implementation of hub-and-spoke operations, chairing a high-level meeting with all key stakeholders at the airport. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Secretary Civil Aviation and representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), Bureau of Immigration (BoI), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Customs, Airports Authority of India (AAI), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), CISF, DigiYatra, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) and leading airlines.

The Minister also led a delegation for an on-ground walkthrough of passenger flow systems and inspected the Security Hold Area (SHA) at Terminal 3 of Delhi Airport to assess operational preparedness.

The National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016, formulated under the decisive and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, laid out a clear roadmap for positioning India as an aviation hub of choice for Indian passengers by 2030 and for the world by 2047. In furtherance of this vision, the Government has developed an International Aviation Hub Strategy, under which several key measures have been undertaken. These include adopting a calibrated approach in granting Points of Call to foreign carriers, particularly for non-metro destinations, renegotiating bilateral agreements in a manner that strengthens Indian carriers and promotes domestic hubs and liberalizing domestic code-share arrangements to enable Indian airlines to expand their global reach.

During the deliberations, the Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated, “India’s unique geographical location between the eastern and western hemispheres provides a natural advantage in emerging as a global transit hub. And we have developed the strategy after extensive deliberations with all the stakeholders and I am deeply grateful to Hon’ble Home Minister Shri Amit Shah Ji for his active support in advancing the proposal.”

Elaborating on the significance of the hub-and-spoke model, the Minister stated that it will enable seamless connectivity between Tier-II and Tier-III airports developed through visionary UDAN scheme of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the international destinations. He noted that while the passengers will benefit from reduced travel time, there will also be optimal utilization of the infrastructure already developed across the country.

The Hub and Spoke Strategy represent a shift in India’s aviation landscape from being primarily an end-destination market to evolving into a global transit hub, thereby allowing Indian airports to capture a substantial share of transfer traffic that is currently routed through foreign hubs.

Sharing the Government’s hub vision, Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated, “At present, nearly 35 percent of international passengers travelling from India transit through foreign hubs such as Dubai, London and Singapore. Our aim is to reverse this trend by developing globally competitive Indian hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai.”

Mentioning the example of IGI Airport, Minister said, “Delhi Airport stands out with its capacity exceeding 100 million passengers annually, handling nearly 50 percent of the total passenger traffic in the northern region and managing around 50,000 daily transfers, thereby positioning itself as a natural hub airport.”

In addition to passenger facilitation, the strategy places strong emphasis on strengthening India’s position as a global air cargo hub. Measures such as the elimination of re-screening requirements for transshipment cargo and the digitization of cargo-related approvals and documentation processes are expected to significantly enhance efficiency and reduce turnaround times.

Highlighting the significance of the model, Minister Ram Mohan Naidu mentioned, “The hub-and-spoke model is also set to have far-reaching economic implications along with increased connectivity across regions. By 2047, the cumulative impact of this initiative is projected to generate approximately 16 million direct and indirect jobs and contribute nearly USD 1.4 trillion to the Indian economy.”

23/04/2026 PIB

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Paris Airport Group slashes stake in India's GMR in $1 billion deal

ADP, the operator of the main Paris airports, agreed to sell up to 7.3 per cent of India’s GMR Airports Ltd. as part of a deal worth as much as €924 million ($1.08 billion).

 The French group agreed to sell the stake to a vehicle connected to GMR’s founding family in a multistage deal, according to a statement confirming an earlier Bloomberg News report. ADP will sell 3.4 per cent of its shares for €256 million and receive a put option to sell an additional 3.9 per cent for about €285 million.

  The family’s vehicle has also agreed to purchase convertible bonds for €301 million face value, plus accrued interest as of the date of the transaction, which is set to be completed by March 31, 2027, ADP’s statement showed. 

 Shares of GMR Airports have risen 8.4 per cent in Mumbai over the past 12 months, giving the company a market value of $10.8 billion.

ADP said its governance rights and status as a so-called co-promoter will remain on completion of the deal. The company doesn’t intend to divest any more of its stake in GMR Airports, and will use cash from the transaction for short-term deleveraging, as well as a special dividend as soon as this year.

 “ADP is taking the opportunity to crystallise part of the value of its investment, while maintaining a significant economic exposure to the future growth potential of this key asset,” ADP Chief Executive Officer Philippe Pascal said in the statement. ADP initially acquired a 49 per cent stake in GMR Airports in 2020. 

24/04/2026 Baiju Kalesh, Dinesh Nair, P R Sanjai and Vinicy Chan/Business Standard

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How India plans to do a Dubai or Doha in Delhi: The plan for hub-and-spoke desi airports kicks of

NEW DELHI: India is finalising its hub-and-spoke policy of flying passengers between small towns and rest of the world via hub like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. The move comes amid Air India and IndiGo’s massive orders for wide body aircraft; the coming of age of Indian hub airports that are gearing up for domestic-to-international and vice-versa transfers; and the biggest hubs of international travel to and from India in the Gulf like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha facing uncertainty over when the resume pre Feb 28 operations. Union aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu visited and secretary Samir Sinha visited the upcoming hub at Delhi’s IGI Airport — India’s busiest airport — on Thursday to fine-tune the policy and begin its implementation in right earnest.

Sinha is tackling what is the biggest pain point for international to domestic passengers — they need to collect their baggage on the port of arrival in India; clear customs and then then check-in again for the domestic connecting flight. “baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention,” the aviation ministry says about the change under the new hub-and-spoke policy.

Passengers flying out of India, say from Lucknow to Delhi to London, on the other hand, can through check-in their bag at Lucknow itself if both their flights are on the same airline or alliance’ code share partner carriers.

The operating procedure for domestic to international transfers:

“Under the hub-and-spoke model, passengers arriving from various smaller cities will be consolidated in a coordinated manner and routed through major hub airports such as Delhi for onward international connections. At the spoke (smaller origin) airport, passengers will be issued two separate boarding passes, clearly marked with ‘D’ (domestic) and ‘I’ (international) indicators,” the aviation ministry said in a statement.

“Customs and immigration formalities for outbound passengers will be completed at the first point of exit from the country, which will be the spoke airport, and passengers on such outbound journeys will not have access to customs declaration facilities during transit,” it said.

23/04/2026 Saurabh Sinha/Times of India

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Navi Mumbai Airport may handle 50,000 passengers daily, operate 380 flights by year-end: Sources

Adani Group-owned Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is likely to handle 50,000 passengers daily, with an estimated 380 flights every day by the end of this year, according to sources.

The airport was set to start international operations from the current summer schedule, but it has been deferred due to the ongoing war in the Gulf region, they added.

The Greenfield Airport, which began commercial operations with domestic flight on December 25 last year, currently handles 20,000 passengers per day with an average of 150 air traffic movements (ATMs).

"We have already touched 20,000 passengers per day. What I foresee, from December, (we will be handling) about 50,000 passengers, while the number of ATMs is also expected to reach about 380 on average by that time. And the way we are pushing, probably we will do more because the traffic that is forthcoming has surprised us also, with a lot of commitment from IndiGo coming in," the sources said.

IndiGo operations currently account for 70 per cent of the airport's total daily flights, which is now going up to 80 per cent, one of the sources said, adding that "if Indigo does change their business model, they will bring in a lot of traffic to the greenfield facility".

23/04/2026 PTI/Economic Times

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Mangaluru Airport Earns Highest Sustainability Rating for Waste Management

Mangaluru: Mangaluru International Airport Limited has received the highest ‘Zero Waste to Landfill’ certification from the Confederation of Indian Industry, underscoring its progress in sustainable airport operations.

The Platinum – Class I rating was awarded after an extensive audit that found the airport diverts over 99 per cent of its waste from landfills. The certification process, conducted by the CII-ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development, examined waste handling, segregation, recycling and regulatory compliance.

Airport authorities said the achievement reflects systematic adoption of the 5R framework—Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle—across its facilities. Measures include reducing waste generation at the source and expanding recycling and reuse channels.

The development comes amid increasing focus on sustainability in India’s aviation sector, where airports are under pressure to meet environmental standards while managing rising passenger traffic.

Experts say such certifications provide measurable indicators of progress and could influence future policy and infrastructure planning. With this recognition, the airport positions itself among facilities integrating environmental goals with operational efficiency.

23/04/2026 Hans India

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Airport director expresses concern over trash dumping, photography on airside

Pune: Airport director Santosh Dhoke on Thursday expressed concerns over passengers taking photographs and videos in the restricted airside area despite preventive measures, and dumping of garbage in the facility's vicinity.

Dhoke said the garbage situation near the airport had improved significantly, but not completely resolved. "Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has done commendable work through daily garbage collection and consistent planning, but some people still dump waste in undesignated areas. This poses safety risks," he said.

The presence of garbage attracts stray dogs towards the airport, even on the runway. An Air India Express flight from Bhubaneswar to Pune had to abort landing on June 28 last year because of a dog on the runway. A stray dog died after coming under the wheels of a taxiing SpiceJet flight to Ahmedabad on Feb 13 this year.

Trash near airports triggers bird hits, too. A bird strike was detected after an Air India's aircraft from Delhi landed in Pune on June 21 last year. A Delhi-Pune IndiGo flight was diverted to Surat on June 5, 2025, because of heavy bird activity near the runway.

Airport director Dhoke was visibly upset over rampant photography and videography at the airport. "There is no provision under which we can take action in the form of penalties against such flyers. While we intend to enhance these measures, passengers must understand the sensitivity of the issue and follow the rules," he said.

The airport authorities have taken several steps, including announcements inside the terminal and on aircraft, and signages, to restrict passengers from taking photographs in the facility. The issue propped up last week following the runway shutdown after hard landing of a fighter aircraft. Shortly after the incident, social media platforms were flooded with images and videos captured from the airport's airside.

24/04/2026 Times of India

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Noida airport operations face further delay as MHA rejects rule change on foreign CEO

New Delhi: The start of the much-delayed commercial operations at Noida International Airport (NIA) in Jewar is set to be delayed further, following the Ministry of Home Affairs turning down a proposal to amend a 15-year-old security rule that bars foreign nationals from holding the top post at a new airport, a government source said.

The CEO of a greenfield airport (built from scratch) also serves as the security coordinator, making it a sensitive post.

NIA has a Swiss CEO, Christoph Schnellmann, and is also the first airport in the country to be executed by a 100% foreign entity, Yamuna International Airport Private Limited, a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG.

The 2011 order by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) states, “The chief executive officer of Indian nationality at each Greenfield Indian airport and the airport director or in-charge airport management at Airports Authority of India airports which are served by civil flights shall be the security coordinator at the respective airports and shall be responsible for coordinating the implementation of security measures in accordance with the legal provisions and instructions issued by the BCAS from time to time.” The BCAS cannot issue clearance unless the Home Ministry gives its approval, an official said.

The Noida airport was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 28 this year, with the official version stating that it would start operations shortly.

The aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, granted it the aerodrome licence on March 6. However, multiple sources told this reporter last month that the second phase of security clearance from the BCAS, the Aerodrome Security Programme (ASP), had not yet been granted to the airport.

22/04/2026 New Indian Express

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Chennai Airport Sees Surge in International Arrivals Ahead of Tamil Nadu Elections 2026

International arrivals at Chennai International Airport have witnessed a significant surge as overseas Tamils return home to participate in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 scheduled for April 23.

With polling already completed in states like Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry, Tamil Nadu is gearing up for a crucial single-phase election. This has prompted a large number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and expatriates from countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, as well as regions in Europe and the United States, to  travel back home.

Many Tamil associations abroad, especially in Bahrain, have highlighted strong enthusiasm among members to exercise their voting rights. Apart from voting, several returnees also plan to spend time with their families and stay back to witness the election results before heading back overseas.

22/04/2026 Live Chennai

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Who Is Noida Airport CEO Christoph Schnellmann and How His Leadership is the Reason Behind the Operational Delays?

Noida International Airport has encountered a significant regulatory challenge just as it prepares for commercial flight operations. According to several media reports, the Ministry of Home Affairs has declined a proposal to relax existing rules that prohibit foreign nationals from serving as chief executives of greenfield airports.

This decision directly impacts the airport’s leadership, as it effectively requires the replacement of its current CEO, Christoph Schnellmann.

Schnellmann is a Swiss national associated with Zurich Airport International AG as well as Bangalore’s Kempegowda Airport. He has spearheaded the Noida airport project since its inception.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) had originally suggested amending the restriction in favour of Schnellmann, but the home ministry rejected the proposal and communicated its stance to the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

As a result, the airport’s stakeholders are now expected to identify and appoint an Indian national to the top position before operations can begin. This transition could potentially lead to further delays for the airport, which has yet to start scheduled commercial flights.

22/04/2026 Avipsha Sengupta/Republic

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Green nod for Shillong Airport expansion

Shillong: The High Court of Meghalaya was on Wednesday told that the proposed expansion of the Shillong Airport has received environment clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.

In a fresh status report submitted on behalf of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the court was also informed that the expansion work has been awarded to KCC Buildcon Pvt. Ltd. Deputy Solicitor General of India Nitesh Mozika tendered the status report, which was taken on record.

The court observed from the report that the green nod was received from the Ministry on March 28 for the expansion of the Shillong Airport runway, the terminal building, apron, and other allied works. The work order was awarded to the firm on April 1.

According to Clause 6 of the work order, the firm has been allowed 18 months, including three months considered for rain, from the 10th day after issuance of the said letter to complete the project. The court was told that safety documents were prepared at the stakeholders’ meeting (for safety assessment during the execution stage) on April 8 and sent to the AAI headquarters for vetting before the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

22/04/2026 Shillong Times

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AAI floats tender for upgrading Saharsa airport

Patna: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has floated a tender for upgrading the existing airport at Saharsa, marking another step towards strengthening regional air connectivity in Bihar. The project aims to enable operations of Code-2B category aircraft — small planes typically carrying 19–20 passengers and suited for short-haul regional flights, including tourism and other services.

As part of the project, a prefabricated steel terminal building, a pre-engineered air traffic control (ATC) tower, a fire station and other allied facilities will be constructed on an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) basis. The EPC model is expected to ensure faster execution and durable infrastructure tailored to small aircraft operations.

The estimated cost of the project is Rs 35.14 crore, covering essential civil works for buildings. Located in Saharsa district, the initiative is part of the state’s broader push to revive and upgrade dormant or underdeveloped airstrips.

Following a memorandum of understanding signed between the Bihar govt and AAI in 2025, work is underway on several regional airports to improve connectivity, boost tourism and support economic activity in underserved areas.

22/04/2026 Faryal Rumi/Times of India

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Malda Mango Association urges reopening airport for direct exports

The Malda Mango Association has called for the reopening of Malda airport to enable direct export of mangoes from the district, which is known for having one of the highest mango outputs in India.

With production expected to reach around 4-5 lakh metric tonnes this year--similar to previous years--an operational air cargo facility would allow traders to export mangoes directly to international markets. This, in turn, could ensure better returns for orchard owners and farmers. Traders have also urged the establishment of mango-based processing industries and the provision of necessary government certifications to facilitate exports.

Their demands come at a time when West Bengal is witnessing a two-phase Assembly election, scheduled for April 23 and April 29.

Ujjal Saha, President of Malda Merchant Association, told ANI that India's highest mango production takes place in West Bengal, and within the state, Malda district has the highest output. "There is a possibility of producing around 5 lakh metric tons of mangoes here. Malda is known across India as the "Mango City," and its mangoes are famous nationwide," Saha said.

21/04/2026 ANI/Asianet News

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Mumbai International Airport to Shut Both Runways for Six Hours on 7 May

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) announced that it will suspend all flight operations between 11:00 and 17:00 IST on 7 May 2026 to carry out critical pre-monsoon runway maintenance. Both primary (09/27) and secondary (14/32) runways will be closed, rendering the airport—the country’s busiest single-runway hub—completely inoperative for six hours. Airport operator MIAL says it began stakeholder consultations six months ago so that airlines could re-time services and issue passenger notifications well in advance. The closure comes after an already-difficult spring in which CSMIA cancelled more than 170 movements on 3 and 8 March when West Asia airspace disruptions forced airlines to rejig rotations.

If these schedule changes require you to reroute through additional countries or secure new transit arrangements, VisaHQ can help simplify the visa process at short notice. Their online platform (https://www.visahq.com/india/) offers quick turnaround times, real-time status tracking and expert support, ensuring travellers remain compliant even when itineraries shift unexpectedly.

21/04/2026 VisaHQ

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SriLankan Airlines adds Ahmedabad as its 10th destination in India

Sri Lanka has always been a top destination for Indian travellers as its national carrier SriLankan Airlines has long made it a mission to bring India closer to Sri Lanka and the world. With close to 90 weekly flights between the two countries, and more to come, the airline has never been more energised about setting the pace for India’s expanding global footprint. For SriLankan, India is its largest market, accounting for nearly 30 per cent of the airline’s total passenger traffic and 23 per cent of overall visitor arrivals to the island.

Building on this momentum, the SriLankan Airlines is poised to enhance its India operations in 2026 through targeted strategic initiatives which will strengthen its connectivity and reinforce the relation between the two nations.

In the current year, SriLankan Airlines will increase its weekly India services and further start new direct flight to the tenth Indian destination at Ahmedabad. At present, the airlines operate direct flights to Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi, Trivandrum, Madurai and Tiruchirappalli.

With the addition of Ahmedabad, SriLankan Airlines will serve six of India’s eight major metropolitan hubs, further diversifying its India portfolio and boosting route economics by capitalising on year-round demand and strong cultural ties between the two countries. These initiatives are projected to increase Indian passenger traffic across the airline’s network by up to 12 per cent this year.

21/04/2026 Aviation World

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Mumbai Airport Fines Ground Handler Rs 10 Lakh for Damaging Gulf Air Aircraft

A ground handling incident at Mumbai International Airport on April 10 has led to a Rs 10 lakh fine for AI Airport Services Ltd (AIASL). During a towing operation, a detached dolly struck and damaged a parked Gulf Air aircraft's airframe. The aircraft was grounded as 'Aircraft on Ground' (AOG), disrupting Gulf Air's flight schedules. Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), owned by the Adani Group, has called the incident a serious safety lapse with significant reputational damage. Such operational failures can impact the broader Indian aviation sector, which is projected for substantial growth. MIAL also reserved rights for further compensation due to the incident.

The Rs 10 lakh fine may be only part of the financial damage. MIAL noted substantial financial and commercial losses, including lost revenue from services related to the grounded aircraft. The incident also caused operational inefficiencies and reduced capacity at the busy Mumbai airport. AIASL, a major ground handler operating at 113 airports, could see its reputation suffer, potentially impacting future contracts. Regulators like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) closely watch ground handling incidents, having previously fined entities like MIAL for other violations, indicating a strict stance.

The incident highlights potential underlying issues within ground handling services, a critical but often outsourced part of airport operations. AIASL, despite its extensive operations, has faced past criticism. In 2022, Air India raised concerns about AIASL, citing delays, staffing shortages, equipment issues, and staff conduct. These recurring problems suggest that underlying causes of operational failures might persist despite fines. This risk is heightened as airport operators invest in safety and automation, especially amid increased international scrutiny on ground safety. Mumbai airport's capacity, already strained by major investment plans and expected passenger growth, is further threatened by such events. India's air traffic control (ATC) also faces strain from staff shortages, which can indirectly affect ground operations and overall airport efficiency.

19/04/2026 Vihaan Mehta/Whalesbook

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Adani sets up 3 subsidiaries for real estate business near airports

Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) has announced the incorporation of three new wholly owned subsidiaries focused on real estate and hospitality developments near its airport projects. The move, disclosed in a regulatory filing on April 18, 2026, signals a strategic push by the conglomerate to monetise and develop land parcels surrounding its aviation hubs.

Adani Enterprises has informed the BSE and National Stock Exchange that its step-down wholly owned subsidiary, Adani Airport City Limited, has incorporated three new wholly owned subsidiaries. These new entities—Adani Navi Mumbai Airport City Limited (ANMACL), Adani Guwahati Airport City Limited (AGACL), and Adani Ahmedabad Airport City Limited (AAACL)—were all incorporated in India on April 6, 2026.

The primary business objective for these subsidiaries falls under real estate activities. Specifically, ANMACL, AGACL, and AAACL are set to engage in the development, leasing, and construction of buildings, as well as the management of integrated hotels, restaurants, banquets, and business centres.

Each of the three companies has been established with a paid-up share capital of Rs10,00,000, consisting of 100,000 equity shares at a face value of Rs10 per share. Adani Airport City Limited holds 100% of the shareholding in each entity, maintaining them as wholly owned subsidiaries within the broader Adani Enterprises corporate structure. The incorporation was completed via cash consideration and did not require any specific governmental or regulatory approvals.

19/04/2026 New Indian Express

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Mumbai airport conman dupes flyers by posing as Nagpur student seeking ticket money

Mumbai: Police warned flyers that a youth, claiming to be a student from a Nagpur Technology Institute, moved around the airport premises and conned people on the false pretext of seeking monetary help to buy a flight ticket to rush back to college or to another destination as he had lost his ticket and was short of money. Police asked flyers not to fall prey to the conman and to alert the local police station if they came across such a person seeking monetary help. At least three to four people were duped in a similar way by the same conman outside the airport.

The latest victim was a sales manager, Akshay Gawade (31), from Pune, who was conned after he stepped out of the arrival gate at Mumbai Domestic Airport Arrival on March 21. An FIR was registered on Saturday on a complaint that Gawade mailed on March 29 after he found out that he was conned by a person who identified himself as Nilaboyina Srigiridhara Aditya. "The team is gathering details of the person through the CCTV footage from the airport premise where Gawade was duped to identify the whereabouts," said a police officer of the Airport police station.

Gawade, employed in a Pune firm and staying with his family in Pune, got down at Mumbai Airport after flying from Kolkata on March 21 after an official trip. In the complaint, Gawade said: "At 12.30 pm I stepped out of the arrival gate at Mumbai Domestic Airport when a youth introduced himself as Nilaboyina Srigiridhara Aditya approached me upset and worried. He claimed himself a student of VNIT College in Nagpur and showed me his College ID card. At that time, I took a photo of the said ID card on my mobile. The said person further told me that his ticket to Hyderabad was lost and he needed to go to Hyderabad urgently, so he needed financial help."

According to the FIR, the conman pleaded with Gawade saying, "Please help me," and said that he would return the money taken from Gawade very soon. "I thought this person was a student and he needed help. I trusted him and agreed to give him money. Then he showed me a scanner on his mobile phone. I scanned the said scanner and sent him Rs16,000 via Google Pay. After that, he gave me his mobile number. Two days later, I messaged him on his WhatsApp and inquired about the money, but he said he would give the money but did not," Gawade said in the FIR.

20/04/2026 V Narayan/Times of India

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Mumbai airport slaps Rs 10 lakh fine on ground handling services provider for aircraft damage

Terming it a major incident that has caused serious reputational loss to the airport, Adani Group-owned MIAL has imposed a Rs 10 lakh fine on AI Airport Services Ltd (AIASL), according to a communication accessed by PTI.

The incident that resulted in the damage of the Gulf Air aircraft happened on April 10 when AIASL personnel were engaged in towing loaded containers mounted on dollies along the head-of-stand road in the vicinity of aircraft stands.

"... while the towing operation was in progress, one of the rear dollies became detached from the preceding dolly, moved in uncontrolled manner and struck a parked aircraft belonging to Gulf Air at the airport.

The impact resulted in damage to the said aircraft's airframe, including damage in the forward area of the aircraft," MIAL said in a letter to AIASL on April 15.

With the plane suffering damages, it was declared as Aircraft on Ground (AOG). Gulf Air is Bahrain-headquartered airline.

Details about the aircraft could not be ascertained.

According to the letter, the incident has caused serious reputational loss to the airport.

"In addition to reputational harm, MIAL is also facing loss of revenue and commercial impact arising from the AOG condition of the Gulf Air aircraft. This includes disruption and deferment of aeronautical and allied airport revenues directly linked to aircraft operations.

19/04/2026 PTI/Tribune

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Excess time fee scrapped at Doon airport

DEHRADUN: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is set to roll out a commuter-friendly and technology-driven parking system under a revised policy by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). A key highlight is the removal of excess-time fees earlier imposed on vehicles overstaying in parking zones.

Officials said the move will reduce confusion and inconvenience for travellers. “The new rules aim to simplify parking, reduce congestion and improve overall passenger experience,” said BCH Negi, director of the airport.

A major relief has also been extended to commercial vehicles. Non-AAI licensed operators, who were earlier charged Rs 345 for lane pickups, will now pay a nominal fee of Rs 80, making short-duration pickups significantly more affordable.

In addition, toll booths will be relocated outside parking areas, eliminating the need for entry tokens -- a step expected to ease congestion at entry points and ensure smoother traffic flow.

20/04/2026 Gaurav Talwar/Times of India

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How AAI is tackling fog disruptions and passenger delays

India’s northern region has emerged as a major pillar of the country’s aviation ecosystem, handling a significant share of both aircraft and passenger traffic.

According to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which manages 137 airports including 24 international ones, the region accounts for more than a quarter of flight movements and nearly one-third of passengers.

“I think the northern region is contributing more than 25 per cent of the air traffic. As of now... in terms of aircraft movements, it's maybe around 26 per cent. But if you go with the passenger traffic, it will be around 30 per cent,” said Ajay Kumar Kapur.

At the centre of this network is Indira Gandhi International Airport, which remains the busiest aviation hub in the region and handles a substantial portion of this traffic.

Despite strong growth, weather—particularly winter fog—continues to disrupt operations in North India.

“I think the most affected are the early mornings when there is more fog. That time most of the delays happen,” Kapur said.

Low visibility during dense fog leads to delays, flight diversions, and congestion at terminals, especially during peak winter months. While advanced systems are in place, their effectiveness has limits.

18/04/2026 Open

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North India handles 30% of air passenger traffic; fog remains key challenge, expansion underway: AAI official

New Delhi: The Airports Authority of India manages 137 airports, which includes 24 International Airports and also provides Air Traffic Management Services (ATMS) over entire the Indian Air Space. One of its key regions is the Northern Region.

Ajay Kumar Kapur, Regional Executive Director (Northern Region), Airports Authority of India says the northern region accounts for a significant share of India's aviation traffic, contributing over a quarter of aircraft movements and nearly one-third of passenger traffic.

"I think the northern region is contributing more than 25 per cent of the air traffic. As of now... in terms of aircraft movements, it's maybe around 26 per cent. But if you go with the passenger traffic, it will be around 30 per cent," Kapur told ANI, highlighting the region's growing role in the country's aviation ecosystem.

He noted that Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport remains the busiest hub in the region, handling a major share of this traffic.

Talking about the key challenges for the northern region, Kapur said winter fog continues to be the biggest operational hurdle, especially in the early morning hours. "I think the most affected are the early mornings when there is more fog. That time most of the delays happen," he said, adding that low visibility often leads to flight delays, cancellations, and congestion at terminals.

18/04/2026 ANI/Economic Times

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Warangal airport foundation stone to be laid soon: Telangana minister

Hyderabad: Telangana Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy on Saturday said the state government would soon lay the foundation stone for the proposed airport at Warangal.

Reddy, who held a meeting with officials of the Airports Authority of India and others regarding the three new airports proposed in the state, said the government has already handed over 953 acres of land to the Centre for the Warangal airport project.

He said the airport at Adilabad would be developed jointly by the Defence Ministry, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, and the Telangana government.

He added that a master plan for the development of the Adilabad airport would be prepared soon. The government is also taking steps for land acquisition for the project, according to a press release.

18/04/2026 PTI/Economic Times

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Why IAF shut down flight operations at Pune airport for 11 hours

Scores of night flights came to a grinding halt at Pune airport on late Friday (April 17). The flight operations at the city airport have now been resumed, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said.

“The runway at Pune Airport, which was temporarily unavailable due to an incident involving an Indian Air Force aircraft, has now been restored and declared operational. All necessary safety inspections and clearances have been completed. Operations are resuming in a phased manner,” IAF’s statement noted.

The Pune airport’s runway was shut for landings and take-offs following an incident involving an IAF aircraft. According to Defence sources, the incident involved a Sukhoi 30 MKI aircraft; however, the IAF did not confirm the aircraft’s type, Times of India (TOI) reported.

The fighter aircraft reportedly experienced a hard landing, which led to an over 11-hour suspension of services and flight disruptions.

The disruption began at 10:25 pm on April 17. IAF confirmed in a statement that the situation occurred during a routine night flying sortie, and assured the safety of aircrew members involved.

The fighter aircraft experienced an undercarriage failure.

Undercarriage failure refers to a malfunction or damage to a plane’s landing gear, the structural assembly beneath the aircraft used for takeoff and landing.

The aircraft experienced a landing gear failure upon touchdown, resulting in a “hard landing” and leaving the aircraft stranded on the runway. The hard landing reportedly caused potential damage to the runway surface, leading to its closure.

A minor fire erupted but was swiftly brought under control, with all crew members safe. The closure of the runway led to a temporary halt in operations at Pune Airport, Hindustan Times (HT) reported.

18/04/2026 First Post

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IAF orders court of inquiry into Sukhoi hard landing at Pune airport

New Delhi/Pune: IAF ordered Saturday a court of inquiry into a hard landing by a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet in Pune, as flight operations at the civil-military airport resumed after an overnight shutdown of nearly 10 hours.

IAF spokesperson Wing Commander Jaideep Singh confirmed the probe. He also said: “Work was done at a war footing last night to remove the aircraft from the runway and make the runway operational. Airport operations started this morning.”

Senior officers said investigators will examine multiple factors, including aircraft’s vertical speed at touchdown and pilots’ response. “Usually, multiple factors are responsible for a heavy landing of any fighter jet.

The technical team will examine each system thoroughly to identify any technical error.

19/04/2026 Times of India

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Delhi-bound flights diverted to Amritsar after heavy rain, poor visibility; several issue Mayday calls

Several domestic flights bound for Delhi were diverted to Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ), late Friday night, after heavy rain and poor visibility disrupted operations in the national capital, triggering a cascading impact across multiple airports.

According to officials, adverse weather conditions in Delhi NCR, including intense rainfall and low visibility, severely affected flight movements at Indira Gandhi International Airport, forcing diversions and delays.

Airport sources said flights were initially diverted to Jaipur, Lucknow and Ahmedabad. However, after parking bays at these airports were exhausted, further diversions were redirected to Amritsar after 11:30 pm.

In total, 10 flights, including one diversion shortly before midnight the previous day, were rerouted from Delhi to Amritsar. These included five IndiGo flights (from Kolkata, Jammu, Guwahati, Udaipur and Patna), three Air India flights (from Bengaluru, Mumbai and Raipur), and one SpiceJet flight from Mumbai.

Sources revealed that several of the diverted aircraft were critically low on fuel and issued "Mayday" calls before landing, highlighting the severity of the situation.

18/04/2026 Charnjit Singh Teja/Tribune

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Bokaro Airport Project Gets Boost: AAI Inspection Concludes, Fast-Tracking Underway

Bokaro: Deputy commissioner (DC) Ajay Nath Jha has asked Airports Authority of India (AAI) to fast-track Bokaro airport project as the 48-hour inspection by AAI team concluded on Thursday. The team also met with the DC to apprise them of their findings.

The team, led by AGM (CNS) Dilip Kumar Sinha, reviewed infrastructure, safety, emergency systems, communication facilities, and environmental conditions.

Officials said that most requirements identified by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security have been nearly addressed, and clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation is awaited. Jha has asked officials to expedite coordination and appointed additional collector Mumtaz Ansari as nodal officer to fast-track processes.

17/04/2026 Divy Khara/Times of India

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Adilabad airport plan reworked to 1,500 acres

Adilabad: Plans for a long-anticipated airport in Adilabad are gathering momentum, with a joint field survey by officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF), Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the state government laying the groundwork for what is now envisioned as a full-fledged aviation hub.

The proposed Adilabad airport is being developed as a joint-user facility, bringing together civil aviation and defence operations in a single space. Beyond passenger services, the project is expected to accommodate cargo movement as well as IAF training activities, expanding its role from a regional airstrip to a multi-functional aviation centre.

During the survey, a team led by P Sebharwal, S G Hegde, R Shukla and others examined the existing aerodrome and surrounding areas. Bangariguda, Nishanghat, Anukunta and the defunct Cement Corporation of India (CCI) lands were inspected using revenue maps.

The exercise focused on rerouting water bodies and internal roads, relocating habitations and power lines, and assessing approach roads, all crucial to the project’s feasibility.

18/04/2026 New Indian Express

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Why are Indian airports seeing frequent wing clip incidents

New Delhi: Wings of an Akasa aircraft was about to take-off and a taxiing SpiceJet aircraft collided at the Delhi airport on Thursday. Initial reports suggested that SpiceJet pilots executed a turn without wing walker clearance from the Air Traffic Control (ATC) officer. The Directorate General of Civil aviation (DGCA) has ordered that the pilots of the SpiceJet aircraft and the ATC officer concerned be taken off duty till an inquiry is conducted.

This has brought similar incidents in the past two months into the spotlight, highlighting concerns about aviation safety standards at airports.

A major disaster was averted at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on February 3 after the wing tips of two aircraft were involved in a ground collision. In this case, it was an Air India flight pushing back for its departure to Coimbatore and an IndiGo flight taxiing after arriving from Hyderabad. Earlier this month, an IndiGo aircraft was hit by an unmanned catering truck at Kolkata airport.

These incidents have raised questions about safety standards at Indian airports, highlighting the need for immediate attention. 

A Parliamentary Standing Committee report on review of safety in civil aviation tabled in 2025 said that AIRPROX (aircraft proximity) rates exceeded the acceptable benchmark, further reinforcing the conclusion that systemic issues related to airspace management, standard operating procedures, and pilot-controller communication are not being adequately resolved by the DGCA. The aviation regulator has set up an Occurrence Review Board (ORB) to look into such incidents.

Runway incursions by aircraft were recorded at a rate of 14.12 per million movements, significantly exceeding the established target of 9.78 in 2024. Similarly, incursions attributed to a loss of situational awareness stood at 5.91 per million movements, against a target of 4.54. These are high-consequence events that pose a direct risk of collision on the ground.

The persistence of high runway incursion and AIRPROX rates indicates that the mitigation and prevention phases of the safety management cycle are broken.

 17/04/2026 Richa Sharma/Business Today

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Pune Airport runway restored, ops resume after IAF incident: MoS Mohol

Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol on Saturday announced that the runway repair work at Pune Airport had been completed on a war footing after an incident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft temporarily disrupted operations.

In a post on X, Mohol said safety remained the top priority during restoration work and confirmed that departure operations resumed from 7:30 am, while arrival operations restarted from 8:00 am. He added that air traffic in Pune is expected to gradually return to normal over the course of the day.

"The runway at Pune Airport was temporarily unavailable following an incident involving an IAF aircraft. Runway repair work has since been completed on a war footing, with safety maintained as the top priority throughout. Departure operations will resume from 07:30 AM, and arrival operations will commence from 08:00 AM. Air traffic in Pune is expected to gradually return to normal over the course of the day," Mohol posted.

Earlier on Friday, the IAF said the runway had become temporarily unavailable following the aircraft-related incident, but confirmed that the aircrew were safe and there was no damage to civil property.

18/04/2026 PTI/Business Standard

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Pune Airport Runway Briefly Shut After Air Force Aircraft's 'Hard Landing'

Flight operations at the Pune Airport resumed this morning after an overnight suspension triggered following an incident involving Indian Air Force's aircraft.

After ensuring all safety protocols, departure flights resumed from 7:30 am today, while arrival operations recommenced from 8:00 am, officials said.

According to the authorities at the Pune International Airport, at about 2225 hrs, a fighter aircraft experienced an undercarriage failure during landing, resulting in blockage of the runway.

"As per IAF ATC, it will take 4–5 hours to clear the runway and restore normal operations," they said.

Union Minister of State for Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed the suspension of runway operations at the airport.

"Thankfully, the aircrew are safe and there has been no damage to civil property. Airlines have been informed, and it may take approximately 5 hours to restore normal runway operations," Mohol said in a post on X.

"I am in constant touch with the Airport Director and Air Force officials to ensure the situation is resolved at the earliest," he said.

The Indian Air Force had earlier stated that the runway at Pune airport was temporarily unavailable following the incident involving one of its aircraft, adding that restoration efforts were already underway.

"Pune runway is temporarily unavailable due to an incident involving an IAF aircraft. The aircrew are safe and there is no damage to civil property," the IAF said on social media.

"Efforts are underway to operationalise the runway and resume normal operations at the earliest," it said.

18/04/2026 PTI/NDTV

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Pune airport reopens after IAF aircraft 'hard landing' incident; flight operations resume

Flight operations at Pune Airport resumed on Saturday morning after authorities restored the runway that had been shut following an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft incident late Friday night.

In a statement on X, Pune Airport said repairs were completed on priority with safety checks in place. Departures restarted from 7:30 am, while arrivals resumed from 8:00 am, with operations expected to normalise through the day.

The disruption was triggered after an IAF aircraft encountered a technical issue during landing, leading to a temporary runway closure. The IAF had earlier said the runway was “temporarily unavailable” due to the incident but confirmed that the aircrew were safe and there was no damage to civil property.

18/04/2026 Economic Times

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Tiff at Amritsar airport over Rs 500 parking penalty

Allegations of overcharging by a parking contractor at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport resurfaced on Thursday after a heated argument broke out at the facility between a passenger and parking staff over a Rs 500 fine.

The dispute occurred in the airport’s pick-and-drop area after a vehicle was parked there for over 20 minutes. The parking staff issued a fine of Rs 500, following which the passenger entered into an argument with him. The passenger alleged that such high charges were not levied at other airports and accused the contractor of overcharging.

After a prolonged argument, the staff eventually allowed the vehicle to leave without paying the fine. However, employees of the contractor maintained that the challan was issued according to the rules and the passenger continued to argue despite being informed of the same.

17/04/2026 Tribune

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Ambala domestic airport will be inaugurated soon: Vij

Chandigarh: Haryana minister Anil Vij said on Thursday that the domestic airport constructed at Ambala Cantonment will be inaugurated soon. During a meeting held on Thursday, with officers of the Haryana Civil Aviation Department, directions were issued to complete the remaining minor works at the airport at the earliest.

While chairing the meeting, Vij directed officers to constitute a team of senior officers to inspect the airport so that technically pending works can be completed promptly. He directed that CCTV installation, control room setup, security arrangements, online UPS, minor civil works and other office-related requirements be completed on priority. Directions were also issued regarding the availability of staff and vehicles. Additionally, Vij directed officers to establish an off-airport air terminal to facilitate cargo operations.

The minister said that Ambala Cantonment is a major junction, and the start of air services from here will greatly benefit people in surrounding areas and boost commercial activities. He said that apart from districts like Kurukshetra, Yamunanagar, Kaithal, Karnal and Panipat in Haryana, people from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh will also benefit. He added that since the airport is located within the city, passengers will not face any inconvenience in commuting.

 16/04/2026 Times of India

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Odisha Pushes AAI Takeover And Major Expansion Of Rourkela Airport To Enable Larger Aircraft Operations

The Odisha government has stepped up efforts to transfer Rourkela Airport to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), alongside plans to significantly upgrade the facility to handle larger aircraft under code 4C operations.

The airport is currently owned by Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) through its Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) and operates on a much smaller scale, catering to ATR-72 type aircraft under code 2C classification.

According to The New Indian Express report, a high-level meeting held in Bhubaneswar last week brought together senior officials from both the Centre and the state, along with SAIL representatives, to fast-track the proposal and resolve pending issues.

Discussions centred on removing land-related hurdles and accelerating expansion plans for both the airport and the steel plant. Authorities emphasised the strategic importance of the project in boosting regional connectivity and industrial growth.

16/04/2026 Arjun Brij/Swarajya Mag

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‘RR’ stamp on boarding pass: What it means for your next flight from India

You are all excited to board your flight, but just as you receive your boarding pass, you spot ‘RR’ stamped over it. Is it a concern: has your luggage been flagged, or is your travel under question? It’s normal to start worrying over all sorts of possibilities; however, the silver lining is that it is a simple process that shouldn’t trouble you much if you have all your documents in place and you arrive early.

Let’s understand this scenario in detail.

In simple terms, RR stands for Random Review or Random Referral, which means you have been randomly selected for an extra security or customs check before your flight. But it doesn’t mean you are in trouble or have done something wrong. “Basically, it is an additional security screening. You have been randomly selected for additional security or customs screening before boarding, particularly for flights departing from Indian airports. This is a standard procedure and doesn’t mean you did anything wrong. It is printed or written by the airlines’ check-in system and is required by airport security and customs authorities. This is a mandated layer within India’s aviation security framework governed by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS),” said K Anuradha Suresh, an aviation expert and a Retired Senior AGM from Air India.

Notably, airports regularly select a small number of passengers for additional checks, which falls under their mandate.

According to the expert, the selection is algorithm-driven and purely random. “It is not based on passenger behaviour, ticket category, nationality, or frequent flyer status. The principle behind this protocol is unpredictability, a globally accepted aviation security doctrine designed to strengthen deterrence,” said Anuradha, adding that generally, this additional screening happens after the immigration check.

16/04/2026 Indian Express

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Navi Mumbai Airport emerges key aviation hub

Navi Mumbai International Airport has already emerged as one of India’s busiest aviation hubs, ranking as the ninth busiest domestic airport with 393,819 departing seats in April, according to OAG data.

 The airport has been developed to ease congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, which has been operating near capacity for years. This new facility is expected to significantly enhance overall air traffic management in the Mumbai region.

 In its first phase, the airport is designed to handle 20 million passengers annually, featuring one integrated terminal and a single runway. The development represents a major infrastructure investment of approximately INR 19,650 crore.

Looking ahead, the airport’s long-term expansion plan is ambitious. By 2032, it is expected to reach a total capacity of 90 million passengers per annum, positioning it among the largest airports in India and globally.

17/04/2026 Travel Biz Monitor

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Pune airport gets 15 new slots; new routes to Tirupati, Mangaluru from May

Pune Airport is set to expand its air connectivity this May, with 15 additional flight slots approved by the Indian Air Force, taking the airport’s total slot count from 220 to 235. The new slots will facilitate the introduction of fresh routes connecting Pune to Tirupati (via Solapur), Mangaluru, and Bagdogra.

“Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol had requested the Indian Air Force to allow 15 additional slots, which had been agreed, and these new flight schedules would be part of these daytime slots. This is expected to boost tourism, trade, and regional integration,” said airport director Santosh Dhoke.

Tirupati via Solapur

One of the most important additions is a multi-leg route linking Pune to Tirupati through Solapur, creating two new sectors: Tirupati-Solapur-Pune and Pune-Solapur-Tirupati. Star Air will operate flight S5 331/332 on this route effective May 1.

On the Solapur-Pune leg, flights will arrive in Pune at 3:20 pm and depart back to Solapur at 4:00 pm six days a week except Saturday. While the Saturday service will arrive at 4:10 pm in Pune and depart at 4:40 pm. Timings for the Solapur-Tirupati leg are yet to be announced.

Mangaluru

FLY 91 will launch flight IC 1609/1610 connecting Mangaluru and Pune effective May 1. The flight from Mangaluru arrives in Pune at 6:40 pm and departs from Pune back to Mangaluru at 7:05 pm. The service will operate all seven days of the week.

Bagdogra

Air India will operate flight AI 4171/4172 between Bagdogra (IXB) and Pune effective May 1. The inbound flight arrives in Pune at 12:25 pm and departs at 1:15 pm, Monday through Sunday.

Dhoke highlighted the strategic importance of Bagdogra in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. “Bagdogra is strategically important as it serves as a gateway to the Northeast. Direct connectivity from Pune will significantly ease travel to these areas,” he said.

13/04/2026 Shubham Kurale/Indian Express

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Manipur CM reviews Imphal airport expansion, reaffirms commitment to high-quality aviation infrastructure

Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday inspected the ongoing upgradation of the new terminal at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal and reiterated that the government is fully committed to delivering infrastructure that meets the highest standards for the people. 

The expansion and facelift of Imphal airport, including the construction of a new terminal building awarded in 2022, had been stalled for several months following the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur in May 2023. However, work has recently resumed, and the Airports Authority of India now expects the project to be completed by 2027. 

During his visit to the airport on Monday, the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of construction. Later, in a Facebook post, Khemchand Singh noted: “Encouraging progress has been made, and we remain hopeful that upon timely completion, passenger convenience and service delivery will be significantly enhanced.” “At the same time, certain shortcomings in workmanship were observed. Necessary directions have been issued for immediate rectification to ensure quality standards are upheld,” he added.

Khemchand Singh also reviewed the air cargo terminal facilities during his inspection. “The government remains firmly committed to strengthening airport infrastructure and ensuring efficient, high-quality services for our people. Ensuring that our International Airport operates at optimal efficiency remains a key responsibility of the government,” he stated. While interacting with the AI officials, he assured that the government would extend all possible assistance for the timely completion of the construction of the terminal.

14/04/2026 India News

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Pakistani woman shares what her 10-hour layover at Mumbai airport looked like

A Pakistani woman shared what a 10-hour layover at Mumbai airport looked like for her, and her surprisingly smooth experience is now winning hearts online.

The video, posted by Instagram user Wanzipa, who is based in London, documented her transit through Mumbai while travelling to Nepal. Right from the start, she admitted she was nervous. “Like any normal person, I was nervous boarding the flight because India and Pakistan are not the best of friends,” she said.

After landing in Mumbai following an 11-hour IndiGo flight, she shared that the process was far simpler than anticipated. Security checks, she said, were seamless and uneventful. Since she was only transiting and staying within the international terminal, there was no immigration process involved.

With a long layover ahead, she showed snippets of herself exploring the airport, walking through terminals, relaxing, and eventually settling into a lounge where she could eat and rest. “It was quite late, and we were exhausted, found this lovely lounge where we could have food and rest for a bit,” she said, capturing the calm, almost routine nature of her stopover.

There was one brief moment of concern during her stay.

She recalled receiving a WhatsApp call from an Indian number informing her about a “suspicious item” in her luggage. But what initially sounded alarming turned out to be a minor issue. She was simply asked to remove a power bank from her checked-in bag. “Staff was so lovely throughout,” she added, emphasising how the situation was handled smoothly.

14/04/2026 India Today

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Noida International Airport adopts low-emission furniture; aims to be India’s first net-zero airport

New Delhi: Noida International Airport (NIA) in Jewar has emerged as one of the first airports in the country to use low-emission certified furniture and workstations across its 1,00,000 sq m terminals and back office areas.

An official release from the airport said, “This supports NIA’s ambition to be India’s first net-zero airport through clean energy, efficient design, and low-impact operations.” Made from low-emission materials, the furniture ranges from public seating and lounge systems to modular workstations, control desks, and specialised installations.

“The airport boasts workstations that are 66% recyclable and carry a 115.43 kg CO2e cradle-to-gate carbon footprint – critical to serve the airport’s expected 12 million annual passengers,” it said.

NIA marks a concrete shift from conventional airport fit-outs, where sustainability features are often limited to building design, it added.

“Completed in two zero-delay phases, the 5 lakh sqft project consists of 6,000-plus furniture units and specialised installations involving precision manufacturing and parallel execution,” the release said.

13/04/2026 New Indian Express

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CISF's quick action helps German passenger retrieve bag at Delhi airport

A moment of panic turned into relief for a German traveller at Delhi airport, thanks to the swift response of CISF personnel, an incident now being widely praised online.

According to the post shared on X by Airport Sector of the Central Industrial Security Force (APS-CISF), Carla Teresa Dettki, a German national travelling from Delhi to Colombo, accidentally left her bag behind at the security check. What could have turned into a stressful situation was quickly resolved thanks to the swift action taken by CISF staff on duty.

“Ms Carla Teresa Dettki, a German national traveling from Delhi to Colombo, inadvertently left her bag at the security check. Upon being informed, CISF personnel acted promptly, traced the baggage, and handed it over to her. She appreciated the prompt assistance,” the post read.

The accompanying video shows Dettki explaining how she realised her bag was missing and expressing gratitude towards the CISF team for helping her recover it without delay. Her relief and appreciation are evident, turning what could have been a travel disruption into a positive experience.

13/04/2026 India Today

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Kareena Kapoor cuts long queue at Mumbai airport, netizens roast her over ‘VIP treatment’

A viral clip of Kareena Kapoor at Mumbai Airport has ignited a fresh debate on celebrity privilege. The actor is seen walking past a long queue at the entrance security check and heading straight inside, prompting mixed reactions online.

While some users criticised what they called “VIP treatment” and questioned fairness for regular passengers, others defended the actor, suggesting she may have opted for a paid fast-track or special airport service.

The video, widely shared on X with over a million views, has once again brought the spotlight on how celebrities navigate public spaces.

One user @shivbasu2 commented, “When the public becomes foolish enough to lose self respect they will allow such i*diotic activities happen under their eyes. Who is to blame? Those in the long queue they’re . These people get no importance in the USA or UK etc developed countries.”

“Sense of entitlement. People in the queue should have intervened, stopped her from moving ahead, or at least raised their voices,” wrote another user.

13/04/2026 Tribune

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US Challenges Adani’s Plan To Move Cargo Operations To Navi Mumbai Airport, Flags Possible Breach Of India–US Aviation Pact

A proposal by the Adani Group to relocate cargo operations from Mumbai’s primary airport to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport has drawn objections from US authorities.

According to a Bloomberg report, the US Department of Transportation had written to India’s Aviation Ministry in March, raising concerns that the proposed shift of freighter services, including those operated by FedEx, could breach the India–US Air Transport Agreement.

The US side has cautioned that compelling American carriers to relocate may invite retaliatory measures under the bilateral pact.

The move follows a directive by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd., which operates both Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Navi Mumbai airport, asking cargo operators to transition in phases between August 2026 and May 2027.

The company has attributed the decision to planned infrastructure upgrades at Mumbai airport that are expected to reduce cargo handling capacity.

13/04/2026 Arjun Brij/Swarajya

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Asia Air Travel Chaos: Delhi, Tokyo, Dubai Among Worst-Hit As 1,470 Flights Delayed, 67 Cancelled

Air travel across Asia was severely disrupted, with around 67 flights cancelled and nearly 1,470 delayed, leaving thousands of passengers stranded across multiple countries.

The disruption affected nations including Thailand, Japan, Singapore, the UAE, India, and Indonesia, as airports struggled to handle heavy passenger volumes and operational challenges.

Data from April 12 indicates a much larger scale of disruption during the day, with approximately 445 cancellations and 3,839 delays recorded across a wider region stretching from Northeast Asia to the Gulf, including China and Saudi Arabia. The situation led to overcrowded terminals and major schedule disruptions.

Several major airports faced intense pressure. Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport reported the highest number of delays at 216 along with 13 cancellations, followed by Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport with 199 delays.

In Japan, Tokyo’s Haneda Airport saw 182 delays, while Narita recorded 90 delays and 10 cancellations.

13/04/2026 Aanchal Sinha/News18.com

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Jewar Airport Redrawing NCR’s Real Estate Map

Luxury in NCR is quietly changing its address. For years, the premium tag was closely tied to Gurugram’s niche sectors and select pockets of South Delhi. What is unfolding along the Noida-Greater Noida and Yamuna Expressway corridors, however, signals a clear realignment. Luxury today is no longer defined solely by a postcode; it is increasingly shaped by infrastructure, accessibility and future readiness.

At the heart of this shift is infrastructure rather than sentiment. The recent inauguration of the Noida International Airport has significantly reshaped perceptions of the region, positioning NCR’s eastern corridor as one of the country’s most closely watched real estate growth stories.

According to the latest report by Knight Frank India, the airport is expected to significantly strengthen developer confidence and drive fresh residential supply across Greater Noida’s micro-markets. The report highlights that since the foundation stone of the airport was laid in November 2021, the region has witnessed a steady rise in launches and sales activity.

Greater Noida accounted for 28% of total NCR residential launches in 2025, a notable increase from 19% in 2021. Annual residential launches have also surged from 4,415 units in 2021 to nearly 14,000 units in 2025, underscoring the growing developer interest in the corridor.

The airport development also marks a structural shift in NCR’s aviation framework. With the addition of Jewar, the region is gradually moving towards a three-airport ecosystem, complementing the existing aviation infrastructure and decentralising passenger traffic. The phased expansion strategy is expected to position Jewar as a major secondary aviation hub in North India.

11/04/2026 Kausar Firdausi/Outlook

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