Tata’s low-cost carrier to benefit Thiruvananthapuram Airport

Thiruvananthapuram: The impending merger of Air India Express and AirAsia is poised to significantly enhance the prospects of Thiruvananthapuram Airport. This transformation is expected to materialise through the maiden flight of the amalgamated entity, which is likely to debut on the Thiruvananthapuram-Bengaluru route.

Credible insider sources indicate that service initiation in this sector is projected within a span of three months. Aviation experts foresee the potential for a reduction in airfares within this sector, as the merged entity is anticipated to pose robust competition to its peers. Furthermore, this development is poised to break the existing monopoly held by IndiGo Airlines over the same route originating from Thiruvananthapuram.

An official from Air India Express disclosed that Thiruvananthapuram Airport was strategically chosen due to its status as a  significant hub for the airline, thanks to its comprehensive MRO facilities (maintenance, repair, and overhaul). The  Thiruvananthapuram-Bengaluru route is marked by robust demand, given the allure of a shorter travel duration to Bengaluru by air. “Air India Express plans to inaugurate its service within the next three months. Given its budget airline status, a tangible impact on airfares is expected,” the official said.

31/08/2023 Krishnachand K/New Indian Express

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Sikhs For Justice issues threat: 'Will storm IGI Airport with Khalistan flags to avenge arrests in Delhi'

New Delhi: Within hours of Delhi Police announcing the arrest of two operatives of banned outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for allegedly spray painting pro-Khalistan graffiti and slogans at Metro stations last week, the outfit issued a threat that its operatives would now storm IGI Airport with Khalistan flags to avenge the arrests.

SFJ founder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun also declared a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh for information about families of Delhi Police officers in Canada, UK, Germany, Italy & Australia. Earlier Thursday, the special cell had announced the arrest of SFJ operatives Pritpal Singh, alias Kaka, and Rajwinder Singh, alias Kale, from Faridkot.

Special commissioner HGS Dhaliwal said Pannun had promised to pay them $7,000 for the task and paid $3,500 as advance through Western Union. "They were in touch with Pannun on the Signal app and had called him up after the task was completed," Dhaliwal added.

The daring act on August 26 had prompted an all-out manhunt by multiple teams comprising over 100 cops. The duo was finally tracked down by a team led by ACP Sanjay Dutt and inspector Chandrika Prashad through extensive technical surveillance and deep-tech infiltration techniques which also involved analysis of over 5,000 mobile phone numbers, sources said.

31/08/2023 Rajshekhar Jha/Times of India

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Leave home early to catch a flight in Delhi during G20 Summit

New Delhi: Domestic and international passengers who have to board flights from Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport during September 8-10 are advised to start early for the airport due to the G20 Summit. Airport sources said the G20 dignitaries would be taking a different route to exit the airport, but as there would be traffic diversions in the city and enhanced security at the airport, the passengers are advised to plan their journey accordingly.

The summit will be held on September 9-10 and dignitaries will start flying into Delhi from September 8. The dignitaries, who will arrive by special flights, will be exiting from Palam airport. Other delegates will exit the airport from the ceremonial lounge, sources said.

"G20 delegates will take a separate route to exit the airport, but as there will be enhanced security and traffic diversions in the city, passengers may take time to reach the airport or complete formalities in and around the airport. It is advised that they start early for the airport," said a source. The source added, "There might be air traffic restrictions when a leader is about to reach Delhi. Passengers should get in touch with their respective airlines for any flight-related information during the period of the summit."

31/08/2023 Times of India

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Maiden flight lands at Karnataka's Shivamogga airport six months after its opening

The maiden flight operated by Indigo Airlines from Bengaluru landed at the newly constructed Kuvempu airport at Sogane near here at 10.45 am on Thursday. The airport was inaugurated by PM Modi on February 27 this year. 

 Those who were on board the flight include Large & Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development Minister M B Patil, former CM B S Yediyurappa, MP B Y Raghavendra, Shikaripur MLA B Y Vijayendra, MLCs Bharathi Shetty, D S Arun, former minister Haratalu Halappa, Shivamogga MLA S N Channabasappa, Sagar MLA Belur Gopalakrishna, former DyCM K S Eshwarappa and others. 

 Indigo Airlines Private Limited sales executive Manoj Prabhu told DH that as of now, the ATR-72 aircraft will ply between the two cities once daily (both directions). To attract more flyers, the company is offering a fare of Rs 2,669 for a one-way journey and it will remain valid for two months. Patil unveiled the website of the Kuvempu airport on the occasion. Yediyurappa honoured two farmers as part of expressing gratitude to those who gave up their lands for the construction of the airport. 

 01/08/2023 Deccan Herald

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Launch of international operations from new terminal at Bengaluru airport postponed at eleventh hour

Bengaluru:  In a major public relations disaster for the Kempegowda International Airport, its operator Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) cancelled the launch of its international operations from Terminal 2 on Thursday at the proverbial eleventh hour. With the first flight by Singapore Airlines set to arrive at T2 at 10.45 am on August 31, it issued an official release late on Wednesday night postponing the launch.  The official reason cited was the need to offer a seamless transition for passengers.

An official release put out by noon on Wednesday gave a list of all the international flights that would operate on August 31 and elaborated on the wonderful passenger amenities that T2 had in store. It also specified that the Singapore Airline flight would land at 10.45 am. Nine hours later, the airline operator did a volte face. An internal note that was circulating since morning among airport staff said operations would continue from Terminal 1 only even from Thursday.

The statement by a spokesperson on Wednesday night said, “The proposed shifting of international operations to Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru on August 31, 2023, stands postponed. After consulting all regulatory authorities, BIAL will release a firm date for transition of international operations tomorrow. The last-minute decision was taken during the final preparedness review in order to provide an optimal and seamless transition for our passengers. International operations will continue to remain in Terminal 1 until further notice. We regret the inconvenience caused by this decision and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work towards creating the best possible travel experience for our passengers. We request all international passengers to reach out to their respective airlines for any further information.”

30/08/2023 New Indian Express

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Ayodhya airport to extend tarmac to double aircraft parking capacity, ET Infra

Lucknow:  The Airports Authority of India (AAI) will extend the existing apron – the tarmac or the area of an airport where planes are parked – at Ayodhya airport to accommodate four more aircraft. Currently, the airport has constructed a tarmac to handle four Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 at any given time. The decision to expand the tarmac was taken following the recommendations of DGCA and requests from airlines.

When operational, the Ayodhya airport will handle passengers coming from various destinations, primarily for southern and eastern states. Once extended, the apron area will accommodate a total of eight aircraft having 180 seating capacity each.

The airport’s first-phase construction is expected to complete by October 31, following which AAI will approach DGCA for an operational licence. By December month, the airlines are expected to operate from Ayodhya airport on domestic routes. Meanwhile, two airlines have approached AAI to share details about the Ayodhya airport infrastructure, as they will accordingly invest in setting up their passenger check-in booth, boarding stairs, ferry bus and other facilities.

31/08/2023 B2BChief.com

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International flights to take off from KIA’s T2 on Thursday; 27 airlines to shift ops

Bengaluru: T2 of Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) will turn into an international terminal starting Thursday morning, with 27 airlines, including two Indian carriers Air India and IndiGo, shifting from T1 to the new 2,55,645sqm facility.

"Singapore Airlines' SQ 508 will be the first international flight to land at T2 at 10.55am and SQ 509, which will depart at 11.45am to Singapore, will be the first to take off," confirmed a senior KIA official.

A total of 25 international carriers, including Qantas, British Airways, Etihad and Qatar Airways, will start full-fledged operations from Terminal 2, while IndiGo and Air India will be the only Indian airlines to operate from the new terminal.

While Air India will shift both international and domestic operations from T1 to T2 Thursday onwards, IndiGo's domestic operations, which include close to 200 flights from Bengaluru, will continue to run from T1, sources said.

T2's Phase 1, dubbed Terminal in a Garden which is themed after Bengaluru, was constructed at a whopping Rs 5,000 crore and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 11, 2022.

It saw its first flight operation on January 15, 2023, by domestic carrier Star Air. AirAsia and Vistara gradually moved to the terminal with domestic operations.

An Emirates flight to Dubai will be the last international flight to take off from T1 (at 10.30am on Tuesday), and Air India's longest flight between San Francisco and Bengaluru will be the last to land at the terminal.

Domestic operations of AirAsia, Vistara and Star Air will continue from T2 alongside international services, while T1 will house domestic carriers IndiGo, Akasa Air, SpiceJet and Alliance Air, airport sources added.

29/08/2023 Times of India

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Yediyurappa’s dream takes off: First flight to land in Shivamogga Airport on August 31

Six months after its inauguration, Shivamogga Airport will see the first flight touch down on its tarmac on August 31. The Kuvempu Airport was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February this year.

An Indigo flight from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru departing at 9:50 am will be the first plane to land at Shivamogga Airport at 11:05 am. Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil in a statement said that the flight will receive a water salute, a ceremonial welcome after landing at the airport.

The same flight will depart from Shivamogga at 11:25 am and land in Bengaluru at 12:25 am.

Among the passengers of the first flight will be former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, Shivamogga MP BY Raghavendra, Shivamogga district in-charge minister Madhu Bangarappa, minister MB Patil and other legislators from Shivamogga.

Lok Sabha MP BY Raghavendra said that flights connecting Shivamogga to Chennai, Goa and Tirupati will soon start operations.

“Shivamogga will emerge as an International Airport in the next 10 years. The tender process on other routes has been completed. The airlines have to begin operations within 90 days of completion of the tender process. I am confident that other routes will start within a month,” Raghavendra said.

The airport has been built 15 km outside Shivamogga at Sogane with an investment of Rs 449 crore. The airport has been constructed even to accommodate Airbus 320 flights.

29/08/2023 News nine

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Domestic Flights To 7 New Cities To Start From Jaipur Soon: Check Airlines, Routes, Other Details

Jaipur: Here comes a piece of good news for the domestic air passengers. Direct flights to seven new domestic destinations are likely to start from the Jaipur International Airport in the winter schedule, officials told news agency PTI. He said that airline companies like Indigo and SpiceJet have expressed their interest in starting new flights to Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi, Bagdogra, Jaisalmer, Bhopal and Patna.

“Airlines have expressed interest to open new air routes to seven destinations during the winter schedule. Passenger traffic is constantly increasing and a substantial increase is expected during the winter season, which is also the peak tourist season in Rajasthan,” the official said.

New routes like Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi, Jaisalmer, Bagdogra are places of high tourism importance and direct connectivity will be a major boost to the local tourism sector.

He added that the direct connectivity to Bhopal and Patna was earlier announced in the summer schedule but Indigo airlines could not operate due to some technical issue. The airline is now opening the two routes in the winter schedule.

Direct flight to Jaisalmer starts every year during winter, till the onset of summer, due to its tourism significance. On the other hand, Jaipur International Airport has recorded a surge of 26.6 per cent in passenger footfall from April to July this year, as compared to last year.

Around 17.36 lakh passengers travelled through Jaipur airport during this period, making an increase from 13.72 lakh in the corresponding period last year.

“This notable surge in footfall owes its origin to vacation-break, increased leisure travelers and improved connectivity. During summer vacations from April to June, the passenger traffic increased by 25 per cent,” the official said.

“Since April 2023, passenger traffic at Jaipur airport has been constantly gaining momentum due to various reasons including vacation season and a lot of events and tourism activities apart from the normal traffic,” he said.

28/08/2023 India.com

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Decks cleared for flights from Adampur airport

Chandigarh: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday said decks had been cleared for the resumption of domestic flights from the Adampur airport in Jalandhar. The flights will be started from the hub of the Doaba region to the other states.

Chairing a meeting of the Civil Aviation Department here, the Chief Minister said this would facilitate the NRIs to stay connected with their homes in the motherland. Besides saving time, money and energy of the NRIs, the airport would also act as a catalyst in giving fillip to the economic activity in the region.

He also directed the officers to complete the ongoing work for the construction of civil air terminal at Halwara at the earliest. He said the state government had already released Rs 50 crore for the early completion of the work at the terminal.

Mann said efforts were also afoot for starting domestic flights from Adampur, Halwara and Bhisiana airports.

28/08/2023 Tribune

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Indian Cricket Team Great MS Dhoni's Gesture At Ranchi Airport Gives CISF Officer 'Goosebumps'

MS Dhoni is one of the legends of the world of cricket. Such is his fan following that the player always finds it hard to escape the public eye. Fans try there level best just to get to see him. On Saturday, a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officer, who is also a Dhoni fan, met the cricketer at the VIP Lounge of the Ranchi Airport. The officer named Satish Pandey was so touched by the humility and kindness of Dhoni that he decided to pen down the interaction that took place on August 26.

"At times it is a pleasure to be a foot soldier of an armed force. I feel myself a lucky guy as I got the opportunity to skip the long awaited que of fans and met with my favourite, the one and only #mahi bhai," wrote Pandey in a letter that he uploaded on social media. 'A Memorable Encounter with Mahendra Singh Dhoni at Ranchi Airport' was the subject of the heartfelt letter.

"As I entered the room, I was immediately struck by the genuine warmth and amazement on Dhoni sir's face," read a part of Pandey's letter.

"His welcoming smile and open demeanor set the tone for what was to be an incredible interaction. The hospitality he extended to me was nothing short of exceptional; it truly was a next-level experience. Seated comfortably on a sofa, Dhoni sir's response upon seeing me was remarkable.

"He stood up with a gracious smile, extending his hand for a handshake. This gesture left me with literal goosebumps, a testament to the humility and authenticity that defines him. Mahendra Singh Dhoni is not just a legendary cricketer; he is a superhuman with a heart of gold," he added.

28/08/2023 NDTV

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IndiGo to start Goa Abu Dhabi flights from Mopa airport

Panaji: IndiGo has started direct flights thrice a week to Abu Dhabi from Manohar International Airport, Mopa with the first flight slated for take off on Saturday.

Chief executive officer of GMR Goa International Airport Ltd RV Sheshan made the announcement and said that direct flights between the middle east and Goa will spur further economic growth.

The inaugural Indigo flight to Abu Dhabi from Mopa is scheduled for Saturday at midnight and arrives at Abu Dhabi International Airport at 2:15am with the return IndiGo flight taking off at 3:15am and landing at Mopa at 8:10am.

“This remarkable service is set to operate three times a week, on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday,” said Sheshan. “Our excitement knows no bounds as we introduce Abu Dhabi as a prominent destination in our ever-expanding international network. This direct flight offers not only increased tourist accessibility from the UAE to Goa but also facilitates travel from the Konkan region to the UAE and beyond.”

The Manohar International Airport commenced operations on January 5 and within seven months the private airport has launched international flights. The first international destination to connect with Mopa is to UK with Air India shifting its London Goa flight to Mopa from Goa International Airport, Dabolim.

At present, Air India, Oman Air, and Qatar Airways, among others, operate international flights from Goa International Airport, Dabolim.

28/08/2023 Newton Sequeira/Times of India

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AAI working to restore flights to Kochi, B’gavi from Mysuru

Mysuru: MP Pratap Simha said that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is working on restoring such Kochi and Belagavi from Mysuru which was discontinued.

After attending the Airport Advisory Committee meeting held at Mysuru airport recently, the MP said that AAI is also looking further to add new connections by inviting new airlines and offering the people of Mysuru the much-demanded connectivity to other major cities.

The MP reviewed the land acquisition process and advised the agencies concerned to take time-bound actions to complete land acquisition procedures in time to take up expansion work.

Special land acquisition officer of KIADB Priyadarshini informed the committee that the KIADB, which is the nodal agency for the land acquisition process, submitted a utilisation certificate of Rs 150 crore to the state government.

It is awaiting the approval of the 3rd installment of Rs 91 crore for further land acquisition process. Final notification of land acquisition for 46 acres is also in progress.

Officials of NHAI, South West Railways, MCC, MUDA, KPTCL, PWD, CESC, CNNL, horticulture department, state police, KSISF and airlines representatives attended the meeting. Six advisory committee members from industry, trade, travel, social and political backgrounds also attended the meeting and raised the need of more scheduled flight operations at Mysuru airport.

27/08/2023 Times of India

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Monumental civil aviation growth to see Delhi Airport climbing to top three globally: Jyotiraditya Scindia

Describing the rapid growth currently being witnessed in India’s civil aviation industry as ‘monumental’ Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister for Civil Aviation, said that Delhi airport would be climbing up the rankings to be among the top three globally.

“Delhi Airport today has a throughput capability of close to 70 million passengers. By the end of this year or early next year, Delhi airport will grow to 109 million passengers,” he said, adding, “that’s the way, the country is going to transform from a logistics and transportation standpoint, from metro cities down to tertiary cities".

Scindia made these observations at Business Today’s ‘India @100: Achieving Global Leadership’ summit in New Delhi Saturday in response to a question from Siddharth Zarabi, Managing Editor, Business Today Television.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is the country’s busiest airport and has four runways and a throughput capacity of 70 million passengers currently. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is very keen to develop IGIA as part of its strategy to make the country into a global aviation hub.

Scindia revealed as much when he said the mega aircraft orders by Indian carriers IndiGo and Air India will also help the country regain its position in the international skies, which it had held from the 1960s through 1970s.

26/08/2023 Manish Pant/Business Today

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Delhi airport braces for over 250 flight cancellations daily due to G20 Summit

Normal flight operations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport are likely to take a hit due to the G20 Summit scheduled in the national capital. With over 250 flights bound to be cancelled daily, operations will be impacted between September 7-10.

Anticipated to affect a considerable number of flights, up to 250 flights per day may face cancellations, resulting in a potential impact on around 1,000 flights over the span of these four days.

In a bid to ensure the smooth proceedings of the G20 Leader Summit, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is expected to release comprehensive guidelines in the coming days. The government's strategy revolves around maintaining a clear and unobstructed airspace and runway, serving the logistical needs of the G20 leaders.

The decision to impose these measures arises from a combination of security considerations and operational requirements. By enforcing these regulations, the government aims to guarantee a secure and seamless environment for the G20 summit.

Delhi Airport in a statement said, "Current news on cancellations of flight has no linkage to parking of aircrafts. We have already provided the required parking. Decision on Cancellations of flights have been taken by airlines possibly in light of traffic restrictions due to G20 summit."

So far Delhi Airport has received requests for cancellation of approximately 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over three days, which is six percent of the normal domestic operations at Delhi Airport.  The restrictions will not cause any impact on international flights.

26/08/2023 Daanish Anand/CNBC TV18

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DIAL, airlines chalk out cancellations to accommodate guests

New Delhi: Your plans to fly in and out of Delhi between September 8 and 11 could get affected as the government has directed commercial airlines to cut 20-25% flights to make parking space for the large number of VVIP aircraft expected at IGI Airport for the G20 Leaders' Summit.

Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) said on Saturday it has already got requests to cancel 80 domestic arrivals and as many departures. Airlines say they will be required to cut over 700 commercial flights and are working out cancellations.

While highly placed sources say this has been necessitated due to 52 Airbus A320 aircraft of IndiGo and GoAir being grounded here for months following Pratt & Whitney (PW) engine issues and then replacement engines being nowhere in sight - leaving less than required parking slots for planes of the large number of dignitaries who will be here for G20 - DIAL said it has adequate parking. "...cancellation of flights has no linkage to parking of aircraft. We have already provided required parking. Decision on cancellations of flights have been taken by airlines possibly in light of traffic restrictions due to G20 summit," DIAL said in a statement.

Heads of almost 30 states, their delegations and representatives of international organisations are flying into Delhi for the Leaders' Summit - the largest gathering of the global who's who in India ever.

"Delhi Airport is fully equipped with ample parking space for aircraft. So far we have received requests for cancellation of about 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over three days, which is mere 6% of the normal domestic operations at Delhi Airport. The restrictions will not cause any impact on international flights," the statement said, adding it is "working closely with airlines to minimize any inconvenience caused to passengers."

27/08/2023 Saurabh Sinha/Times of India

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Delhi Airport: Schedule Of Over 1,000 Flights Likely To Get Disrupted In September Due To G20 Summit

G20 Summit: Delhi is all set to host one of the high-profile international summits, G20 Summit, from September 9. The two-day event will be attended by top world leaders, including US President Joe Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Rishi Sunak. To make the Summit a grand success, free from any error, the Central government has been taking a slew of measures. According to an Economic Times report, more than thousands of flights may either get cancelled or rescheduled owning to the summit in the national capital.

However, DIAL has issued a statement (after this report was filled) clarifying that the Delhi Airport had received requests for cancellation of approximately 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over 3 days, which is a mere 6% of the normal domestic operations at Delhi Airport.

The Central government has instructed airlines to curtail frequency by a fourth throughout the G20 Summit scheduled to take place in September in the city. The report further added that the order has come due to the parking constraints at the Delhi airport. Additionally, the government has asked the airlines to reposition some of their aircraft to other cities’ airports in view of the Summit.

Meanwhile, the airline executives have warned of countrywide network repercussions, leading to flight cancellations as Delhi is India’s primary airport.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has around 220 parking stands and due to a surge in air traffic, all are occupied. According to ET’s report, flights will have to be reduced at Delhi airport from 12 pm to 12 am on 8 September, and from 6 pm on 10 September until 12 pm the next day (9 Sept.) as most of the G20 delegates will fly in and out during these hours.

Delhi traffic police have released a traffic advisory in view of G20 Summit rehearsals that are being held in the national capital on Saturday and Sunday (August 26-27) from 9 am to 12:30 pm.

26/08/2023  Victor Dasgupta/India.com

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G20 Summit: Delhi Airport Received Cancellation Request Of Approximately 160 Flights, Says DIAL

New Delhi: The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) on Saturday said that the airport authority has received requests for cancellation of approximately 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over 3 days owing to the G20 summit scheduled to be held in the national capital from September 9. “We’d like to assure all travellers that Delhi Airport is fully equipped with ample parking space for aircraft. So far, we have received requests for cancellation of approximately 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over 3 days, which is a mere 6% of the normal domestic operations at Delhi Airport. The restrictions will not cause any impact on international flights,” DIAL spokesperson told news agency ANI.

Earlier, reports had suggested that more than thousands of flights may either get cancelled or rescheduled owning to the summit in the national capital. The reports, further added that the Central government has instructed airlines to curtail frequency by a fourth throughout the G20 Summit scheduled to take place in September in the city.

The order has come due to the parking constraints at the Delhi airport. Additionally, the government has asked the airlines to reposition some of their aircraft to other cities’ airports in view of the Summit.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has around 220 parking stands and due to a surge in air traffic, all are occupied. According to ET’s report, flights will have to be reduced at Delhi airport from 12 pm to 12 am on 8 September, and from 6 pm on 10 September until 12 pm the next day (9 Sept.) as most of the G20 delegates will fly in and out during these hours.

26/08/2023  Victor Dasgupta/India.com

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G20 Summit: Airlines plan to cancel 160 domestic flights at Delhi airport

New Delhi: Delhi airport operator DIAL on Saturday said it has received requests from airlines for cancellation of 80 departing and as many arriving domestic flights during three days from September 8 in connection with the G20 Summit.

The Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), a consortium led by the GMR Group, also stressed that the airport is fully equipped with ample parking space for aircraft during the summit period.

“We take immense pride in India’s role as the host of the G20 Summit 2023. Current news on cancellations of flights has no linkage to the parking of aircraft. We have already provided required parking,” it said in a statement.

Further, it noted that the decision on cancellations of flights has been taken by airlines possibly in light of traffic restrictions due to the G20 Summit.

“So far, we have received requests for cancellation of approximately 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over three days, which is a mere 6 per cent of the normal domestic operations at Delhi Airport. The restrictions will not cause any impact on international flights.

26/08/2023 PTI/Tribune

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Jyotiraditya Scindia Releases Book on AAI Airports' Terminal Building Architecture

The Minister of Civil Aviation & Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia released a coffee table book on traditional and local architecture of various terminal buildings at AAI airports in New Delhi today. The book highlights the facade of terminal buildings at 19 airports. 

This publication is a remarkable endeavour that portrays the upcoming Airport Terminal buildings in the light of traditional values.The future terminals will ingeniously blend Indian architectural excellence with practicality, effectively conveying the essence of our heritage.

The airport terminal building orchestrates the seamless transition between aircraft and ground transportation, serving as a conduit for the various services associated with air travel. A terminal becomes a gateway that shapes visitors' initial impressions of a city. 

They are no longer just simple structures of convenience and have to be seen as landmarks of the city, as marvels, which welcome visitors to the city and inspire a feeling of awe and wonder in travellers.

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has a vision to showcase the heritage of India’s rich social and cultural diversity and he has played a significant role through his ardent efforts in promoting the cultural heritage of India and putting it on the global map. 

Following his footsteps, Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia envisaged to combine Indian architectural brilliance with functional ease in existing and upcoming terminal buildings to convey the essence of Indian heritage to each passenger or passer-by. 

These terminal buildings are imbued with a sense of heritage, making them not just memorable structures but also symbolic expressions of the nation's identity.Under his guidance, Airports Authority of India has tried to create Airport Terminals to be remembered as memorable and an iconic addition to the city-scape.  

25/08/2023 5 Dariya News

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G20 Summit in Delhi: 6% of normal domestic operations to be impacted over 3 days, says IGI Airport

The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) on Saturday said that only 6 per cent of the normal flight operations from Delhi may get affected during the G20 Summit, which will be held next month.

The much-awaited G20 Summit, which will be held in the national capital from September 9 to 10, is likely to be attended by more than 30 heads of states and top officials from the European Union and invited guest countries and 14 heads of international organisations.

Earlier new reports said that normal flight operations from Delhi may take a hit at IGI Airport due to the global meet. A news flash on CNBC TV18 said that commercial flights can be impacted between September 7 and September 10.

At least 250 flights could be rescheduled, the news reports said.

Reacting to this, DIAL issued a statement and said that just 80 arrivals and 80 departures may be affected due to these cancellations, which is 6 per cent of the total traffic.

"We'd like to assure all travellers that Delhi Airport is fully equipped with ample parking space for aircraft. So far, we have received requests for cancellation of approximately 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over 3 days, which is a mere 6 per cent of the normal domestic operations at Delhi Airport. The restrictions will not cause any impact on international flights," DIAL said on Saturday.

The authority said there is no linkage between cancellations of flights and parking of aircraft as mentioned by news reports.

26/08/2023 Basudha Das/Business Today

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Mopa locals say no to EDM event in airport vicinity

Panaji: Amid apprehensions that the electronic dance music (EDM) festival Sunburn would be shifted to a location near the Manohar International Airport, Mopa, a local group on Saturday opposed the move, citing the festival’s alleged association with “drugs, alcohol, and other illegal activities”.

The Mopa Vimantal Panchkroshi Pidit Jan Sanghatana (MVPPJS) has submitted a representation to the local panchayat, and is in the process of submitting the same to the CMO and the chief secretary.

“We are aware that the Sunburn festival organised in the past in other parts of Goa was a nuisance to locals, and there were a number of complaints that drugs, alcohol, and other illegal activities were involved during the festival,” said Bhaskar Narulkar.

“Our local youth keep away from such illegal activities, and it is our request to oppose such a move to bring Sunburn to our area. If the government moves such a proposal..., we will be compelled to oppose it by organising protest marches,” the sanghatana said.

27/08/2023 Times of India

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Customs offers Rajkot man Rs 15,000 for 1kg of seized gold bar worth Rs 41 lakh in 2020

Ahmedabad: When airport customs seized a 1 kg gold bar brought by Rajkot travel agent Jaspalsingh Tomar from Dubai for his sister's wedding, he had not imagined that his investment would melt into nearly nothing.

Three years after the seizure, the customs department offered him a paltry Rs 15,862 for that kilo of gold, which is even more shocking because gold prices have risen by 50% in this period. Tomar says the market value of the gold bar was estimated Rs 41 lakh when it was seized in February 2020.

Tomar has been fighting in the Gujarat high court to get his dues, after the gold bar was sent to the mint by the customs authorities.

According to his lawyer, Manan Paneri, Tomar landed at the city airport in February 2020. He declared in the red channel that he was in possession of 1kg of gold and offered to pay the applicable duty, but the gold was seized by customs officials.

Manan Paneri requested permission to re-export the gold but was refused. He appealed against the order of seizure and imposition of the penalty - nearly Rs 30 lakh - before the Customs commissioner.

On May 24, 2022, Tomar offered to pay the penalty, considering that when he brought the gold to India, its value had been Rs 41 lakh, but it had appreciated considerably. Even after paying the penalty, he would get Rs 30 lakh from his gold, as its value had reached Rs 61 lakh. To his surprise, he was told in August 2022 that his gold had been sent to the mint on January 24, 2022.

This led him to the HC, seeking directions to the customs department to retrieve his 1kg gold bar from the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd (SPMCIL) and hand it to him and he would pay the fine for confiscation and the penalty imposed by the joint commissioner of customs.

27/08/2023 Saeed Khan/Times of India

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Dabolim airport will not shut down, Rajnath tells Sawant

Panaji: Union defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday assured a delegation of ministers led by CM Pramod Sawant that the Goa International Airport at Dabolim will continue to operate.

Sawant said Union civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia also gave an assurance that Dabolim airport won't be shut for commercial flights. Instead, the Centre was looking for new flights from Dabolim, which is part of the Naval air base, Sawant said.

The chief minister, who met Singh and Scindia along with ministers Mauvin Godinho and Rohan Khaunte, discussed concerns in the state about domestic and international flights moving from Dabolim to GMR-run Manohar International Airport at Mopa and urged the Centre to ensure the old airport continues to operate.

26/08/2023 Times of India

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Creating parking slots at IGI Airport to hit 1,000 flights

New Delhi: In a bid to create parking slots for VVIP aircraft expected at Delhi airport for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled airlines may have to cut their flights in and out of Delhi by about 25% from September 8-11, reports Saurabh Sinha. The capacity restrictions, say sources, could see about 1,000 flights being reduced or rescheduled in the four days.

The move has become unavoidable as there was no headway in shifting any of the 52 grounded aircraft of IndiGo and GoFirst from Delhi to nearby airports. In IndiGo’s case, there were no replacement engines given by Pratt & Whitey; in GoFirst’s case, the airline itself is grounded.

Fewer commercial flights in and out of Delhi will mean scheduled airlines will have fewer planes at IGIA.

The decision to cut scheduled flights out of IGI from September 8 to September 11 was conveyed by the aviation ministry to Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) on Friday. The ministry will now discuss with airlines which flights are to be cancelled or rescheduled. TOI had reported this issue on July 31.

Officials say it has been indicated to them that flight cuts may be required on September 8from noon to midnight when dignitaries are expected to fly in, and then in the evening of September 10 after 6pm for 18 hours or so when the dignitaries start flying out. Such a restriction will impact flights across airlines’ networks.

26/08/2023 Saurabh Sinha/Times of India

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IndiGo To Operate All International Flights From Terminal 2, Effective August 31, 2023

New Delhi: IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, will be operating all international flights to and from Bengaluru from Terminal 2 and all domestic flights from Terminal 1, starting from August 31, 2023, onwards, as directed by Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru.

IndiGo has taken measures to ensure passengers are informed of this change. IndiGo is reaching out to all impacted passengers and their respective travel agents via SMS, calls, and emails provided in reservation details. IndiGo passengers are requested to retrieve their PNR on IndiGo’s website or mobile app to check their terminal before leaving for the airport. The airline is committed to providing a safe and hassle-free travel experience onboard its lean, clean flying machine.

26/08/2023 OrissaDiary

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Mysuru Airport Runway Expansion

Mysore/Mysuru: An Airport Advisory Committee meeting was held at the VIP lounge of the Mysuru Airport this morning under the chairmanship of MP Pratap Simha.

Chamundeshwari MLA G.T. Devegowda, Deputy Commissioner Dr. K.V. Rajendra, Airport Director J.R. Anup and members of Airport Advisory Committee C. Narayanagowda, C.A. Jayakumar, Bhagyashree Bhat and others attended the meeting.

It was decided that the ground- breaking ceremony for the Airport runway expansion would be held in January 2024.

A proposal has been sent to the State Government to acquire an additional 91 acres to facilitate future expansion and also to facilitate the runway expansion of 2,750 metres (45 metres wide) from the existing 1,740 metres (30 metres wide).

The airport stands on 490-acre land and an additional 240 acres of land has to be acquired. Of the total 240 acres of land (all falling under various survey numbers of Marase village, Mysuru taluk) identified for expansion works, a total 160 acres of land have been acquired and a compensation of Rs. 1.5 crore per acre has been disbursed. In addition, 46 acres have to be acquired and compensation has to be distributed, the meeting noted. “We need more land (91 acres) in case the runway has to be expanded to 3,500 metres and the proposal is with the Finance Department,” MP Pratap Simha noted. 

25/08/2023 Star of Mysore

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Three canine members of Goa airport's Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad retire, get felicitated

Panaji: “Born as dog, retired as soldiers,” the Dabolim Airport authority in Goa posted on social media on Friday as three dogs who served its Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad for ten years retired from service.

`Takshak', `S Hero' and `Tiger' contributed immensely towards secure air travel of passengers, it said in the post, accompanied by pictures of the three "soldiers".

“In the felicitation ceremony held today, they were handed over to the pet lovers who have shown interest in adopting them,” the airport said. 

25/08/2023 PTI

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Landings on newest runway of IGI may start from Sept 7

 New Delhi: Aircraft may finally start landing on Delhi Airport's newest runway (29R/11L) from September 7 - a day before dignitaries start arriving for the G20 Leaders' Summit. Commissioned on July 14, 2023, 29R - IGIA's fourth runway - is being used only for take-offs since then as its instrument landing system (ILS) is yet to become operational.

"The ILS was imported from Russia this May and there have been some issues with its calibration. A team of Russian engineers is here to do the work required. We expect the same to be completed soon and post testing, landings should begin on 29R from September 7," said sources.

Authorities are keeping their fingers crossed about the successful completion of calibration work as that will allow two runways towards Gurgaon side of Northern Access Road that connects T3 and Mahipalpur to handle both landings and take-offs. Towards Dwarka side of this road also are two runways - the old warhorse 28/10 (famous for its jumbo point) and the smallest 27/09.

Heads of states, including US President Joe Biden and China's Xi Jinping, are scheduled to start arriving from September 8.

Aircraft flying in the heads of states of G20 member nations will land on runway 27 or 28 as that is closest to Palam Technical Area used by VVIPs, including President, VP and PM. The reason: shortest taxi time between the technical area and these two runways.

Palam technical Area is off runway 27 but both airstrips will remain available and it will be up to pilots to select whichever airstrip they wish. All other VVIPs will come to and depart from T3 that is almost equidistant from both the sets of runways, 29L & 29R and 28 & 27.

24/08/2023 Saurabh Sinha/Times of India

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AAI invites tender for RESA works at Calicut airport ahead of completion of land acquisition

 Kondotty: The Airport Authority of India has expedited preliminary works for lengthening the RESA (Runway and Safety Area) of Calicut International Airport. 

Deciding not to wait any longer for the completion of land acquisition, the AAI invited tenders for construction activities. Meanwhile, the government has fast-tracked their attempts to complete land acquisition. Verification of the land documents commenced on Thursday. 

Three individuals from Pallikkal village and six others from Nediyiruppu village have submitted their documents so far. After verification, the land owners will receive compensation if there are no legal or technical hindrances. The money will be transferred directly to their bank accounts. House owners will receive Rs 10 lakh under the rehabilitation package beforehand. The remaining payment will be credited only after vacating the land.

 Meanwhile, authorities have set up facilities for hearing the grievances of the property owners. The state government had earlier promised to allot land for developmental works at the airport by September 15. The tenders for the project worth Rs 402.18 crore will be finalised in the upcoming months. 

The company that wins the tender will have to start work within 90 days. The delay in land acquisition will not affect the initial works. A total of 19 months have been allowed for the expansion of RESA. The officials are trying to address the issues of the locals concerning the project through discussions. 

 24/08/2023 A Suresh/Mathrubhumi.com

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Telangana Hyderabad RGI airport sees skyrocketing domestic passenger numbers

India's unique landscapes and civilizations are increasingly being sought after to be explored. Domestic travel has become increasingly alluring, resulting in a notable increase in the first half of this year. The rajiv gandhi international airport (RGIA) in hyderabad has seen a record-breaking increase in domestic travellers in only six months. Summertime appears to be the preferred time of year for these adventures in travel, with april and May seeing the highest levels of domestic passenger traffic at the hyderabad airport.

According to this year's figures, intra-country travel has increased dramatically compared to the same time last year. The airport has welcomed more domestic travellers in the first half of the year than in any other time period of similar size during the previous ten years, according to data from the airport.

According to Waseem Syed, the owner of Cloudz Tours & Travels, "The captivating destinations of Goa, Coorg, Munnar, Wayanad, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Mahabaleshwar, and the serene landscapes of kashmir have become the preferred playgrounds for Hyderabadis seeking memorable vacations."

From january to june of this year, the rajiv gandhi international airport alone saw a startling surge of approximately 1 crore (99,88,369) domestic travellers. This number even surpasses the total number of domestic passengers during the previous ten years. It appears that the appeal of overseas travel has not diminished even as the nation's passion with home exploration grows. A stunning 19,37,000 international passengers have been served by the RGIA's international departure terminals, which have been bustling with activity.

24/08/2023 India Herald

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Delhi airport’s one runway to be temporarily closed for resurfacing works from September 11

A runway at the Delhi airport will be closed for resurfacing works for around three months from September 11.

The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), which handles around two lakh passengers daily, has four runways and three terminals.

“RWY 10/28 of IGI Airport will be temporarily closed for resurfacing works for approximately 3 months from 11th September 2023 to 15th December 2023.

“Along with the resurfacing works at RWY 10/28, rehabilitation of existing taxiways connecting RWY 10/28 and construction of few new taxiways connecting RWY 10/28 will also be undertaken,” according to a communication issued by the Airports Authority of India

24/08/2023 Tribune

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Goa BJP Spokesperson Pays ₹265 For Tea At Dabolim Airport, Raises Issue With Aviation Minister

The cost of food and beverages at airports across India has been a long worry for passengers due to the high price they have to pay for even basic items like water and tea.

The issue was again highlighted by Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Sidharth Kuncalienker, who paid a whopping ₹265 for a cup of tea at Goa's Dabolim airport.

The Goa BJP spokesperson took to X (formerly Twitter) to raise the issue with the Aviation Ministry as he tweeted a picture of the receipt after buying a cup of tea.

He requested Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia to "look into the matter" after tagging him in his tweet.

"Single #Chai at @AAI_Official Daboli Goa #Airport costs Rs 265/-

"Probably must be highest cost of tea in all airports across world. Request Min Aviation @JM_Scindia to look into this matter," Kuncalienker.

This is not the first time someone has complained about the high prices of food and beverages at airports in India.

Another instance of the high prices at airport was flagged by a Chandigarh-based content creator last month who paid ₹192 for a plate of Maggi at the airport while she was on her way to Singapore.

24/08/2023 Free Press Journal

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New loaded ATC tower readies for operation at Kolkata airport

The construction phase completed, the new technical building and air traffic control (ATC) tower aequipped with state-of-the-art technology, ushering in a new era of aviation safety. Following thepreparations are underway to integrate the latest communication, navigation, and surveillance gamanager S D Burman will oversee the transition process, ensuring a smooth shift from the existinAirport officials shared that the new technical building and ATC tower will soon be handed over to(AAI), marking a significant milestone in enhancing operational capabilities. A turnkey project conand installing the cutting-edge technology, marking the first instance of a comprehensive projectfor seamless integration.

The upgraded air traffic navigation (ATN) complex will see substantial expansion, with the area co7,640 sq ft to 14,316 sq ft. Atop the tower, the visual control room area will also increase from 1,2tower's height will rise from 112 ft to 184 ft, and the tower's sturdy glass panes, measuring 37.5mwithstand high-velocity winds.

The new technical building will not only house advanced technology but also offer enhanced facilroom, child care space, fitness amenities, and relaxation areas. In addition, separate rooms for actennis, and yoga will be available, along with dedicated areas for controllers and pilots to interactcater to the well-being of controllers.

24/08/2023 Construction World

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DigiYatra service starts at Lucknow Airport, boarding to get faster

Following the successful implementation of biometric self-boarding gates in major Indian airports like Varanasi, Delhi, and Bengaluru, Lucknow's Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport has also introduced its own digital travel initiative, DigiYatra. In a move to enhance passenger convenience and efficiency, the airport has launched this system, allowing travelers to experience hassle-free check-in and boarding processes.

In its initial phase, DigiYatra will be available to passengers of two specific airlines. To facilitate enrollment in the DigiYatra program, the airport has stationed 'Digi Saathis' at Terminal-2's entry gate. The digital service will be accessible at various points, including the entry gate, pre-security check area, and boarding gates.

Travelers choosing the DigiYatra check-in process will need to register either at the airport or through the dedicated DigiYatra portal. Once registered, each passenger will receive a unique DY ID, applicable for all future air journeys within India. Acquiring a DigiYatra ID involves providing personal information such as name, email address, mobile number, and identity proof details. This distinctive DY ID will be linked to the passenger's PNR number.

The portal, in collaboration with airlines, will efficiently recognize and match key details like city, airport, and airline with passenger information. This information will then be shared with the airport's security personnel six hours prior to flight departure, ensuring a seamless travel experience for passengers.

With DigiYatra, travelers will be able to navigate through the departure entry gate, pre-security hold area (pre-SHA), and boarding gate after undergoing a facial biometric scan. This initiative not only streamlines the travel process but also enhances the security and convenience aspects of air travel.

24/08/2023 Economic Times

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Two Vistara Flights Avert Crash At Delhi Airport As ATC Aborts Take-Off For One While Another Was Landing

The Air Traffic Controller at the Delhi airport averted a major accident on Wednesday after aborting the take-off of a flight to Bagdogra which clashed with the landing of a flight from Ahmedabad.

A Vistara flight from Ahmedabad to Delhi, after landing on a parallel runway, was proceeding towards the end of the runway as Flight UK725 from Delhi to Bagdogra was about to take off from the newly opened runway. 

A senior official at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) told PTI that Vistara aircraft VT1926 operating the flight from Ahmedabad to Delhi was involved in the runway incursion. The aircraft landed on runway 29L and was instructed by the air traffic controller to cross runway 29R. At the same time, the controller also permitted take off of another Vistara plane VTI725 operating the flight from runway 29R, the official said.

An official told ANI, “Both were given permission at the same time but ATC took control immediately. The ATC (Air Traffic Control) officer on duty asked Vistara flight to abort take-off."

After the ATC aborted the take-off, the Delhi-Bagdogra flight then immediately returned to the parking bay from the active runway. 

The DGCA official reportedly said, "Momentarily, tower controller forgot this crossing and issued take off clearance to another Vistara flight VTI725 (Delhi–Bagdogra) from runway 29R."

"On realisation of the error based on input from VTI926, the tower controller instructed VTI725 to cancel take off," the official added.

23/08/2023 Outlook

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Major mishap averted: 2 planes cleared for takeoff, landing at same time at Delhi airport

A major mishap was averted at the Delhi airport on Wednesday morning as a Vistara Airlines aircraft was given permission for take-off while another was in the process of landing.

According to the details, flight UK725 (from Delhi to Bagdogra) was in the process of taking off from the newly inaugurated runway, while another Vistara flight (from Ahmedabad to Delhi), which had landed on a parallel runway, was moving towards the end of the runway, ANI reported.

“Both were given permission at the same time but ATC took control immediately. The ATC (Air Traffic Control) officer on duty asked Vistara flight to abort take-off,” an official, who was aware of the developments, told ANI.

According to airport officials, if the flight which was taking off was not stopped at the right time, a major accident could have happened.

No aircraft or vehicle movement is allowed during the process of take-off and landing, according to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

Delhi-Bagdogra flight returned to the parking bay from the active runway immediately after take-off was aborted.

23/08/2023 Financial Express

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2 Vistara planes, 1 runway: How alert woman pilot averted crisis at Delhi airport

A woman pilot's timely intervention helped avert a major incident at the Delhi airport on Wednesday after two Vistara planes were given clearance to use the same runway. As one Vistara aircraft - which had already landed - was allowed to use an active runway, another was given the go-ahead to take off from the same runway, sources said. A probe has been ordered into the incident while the air traffic controller has been de-rostered.

According to sources, a Vistara A320 aircraft from Ahmedabad to Delhi landed on Runway 29L a little before 8:30 am on Wednesday, and was instructed by a tower controller to cross another runway, Runway 29R. At the same time, a Delhi-Bagdogra flight was cleared for take-off from Runway 29R.

While the Delhi-Bagdogra flight was preparing for take-off, the woman pilot of the Vistara flight that had landed spotted the former and informed the Air Traffic Control about the flight preparing to take off on a parallel runway, according to sources.

The take-off was aborted after instructions were received from the Air Traffic Control (ATC).

Speaking about the incident, an official who was aware of the developments told news agency ANI, "Both were given permission at the same time but ATC took control immediately. The ATC officer on duty asked the Vistara flight to abort take-off."

The Delhi-Bagdogra flight returned to the parking bay from the active runway immediately after take-off was aborted.

Airport officials said if the take-off was not stopped at the right time, a major accident could have happened.

"Normally, a take-off clearance is not issued to an aircraft on one runway unless the aircraft on the second runway has landed,” an official told ANI.

23/08/2023 Poulomi Saha/India Today

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How an upcoming airport in MP has left 70 trainee pilots in the lurch

On February 15, Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia had laid the foundation stone for a commercial airport at Rewa, the Vindhya region’s largest city in the state’s northeast. The project was part of a larger package that the BJP governments in MP and at the Centre have been pursing for the politically significant region. The target was to have the inaugural flight land at the Rewa airport by September ahead of assembly elections.

But given the mishandling of the project by government agencies, these plans may get delayed. Crucially, nearly 70 trainee pilots of the Falcon Aviation Academy (FAA) find their future jeopardised as flight training has abruptly stopped since February. Many of these students have serviced loans to pay their fee and the interest on their loans is mounting. There are also alleged instances of the local administration adopting coercive measures against FAA.

FAA was allotted the Rewa airstrip by the MP government in 2019 for two 15-year leases. It set up a training academy, brought in 12 trainer aircraft at the site and commenced training. On February 9 this year, local administration officials arrived at the airstrip and began pitching tents for the foundation stone ceremony. On February 12, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) sent an email to FAA that it would begin digging work on the runway.

FAA protested through an email, saying it was the occupant of the airstrip based on the lease and that sufficient notice had not been given. On February 24, FAA moved the high court and secured a stay. The stay was vacated on April 27 and work at the airstrip resumed. AAI, meanwhile, allotted an airstrip in the adjoining Satna district to FAA for operations. A large part of that airstrip was, however, under illegal encroachment. FAA refused the allotment on these grounds.

“The state government transferred the Rewa airstrip to AAI without consulting or informing FAA. The lease was granted to FAA and there had been no violation by the company. The authorities just landed up and started their work without informing us in advance,” said Harshvardhan Pratap Singh, managing director, FAA.

While work is on at the Rewa airstrip site, it cannot progress beyond a point. This is because 11 aircraft of FAA and its fuel dump are still located there. “I cannot move the fuel dump or the aircraft anywhere until I have permission from the Petroleum & Explosive Safety Organisation (PESO) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA),” reasoned Singh.

The fuel dump is spread over 20,000 sq feet and has a capacity of 48,000 litres. Aviation gasoline is a Category A fuel and requires a licence for storage.

23/08/2023 Rahul Noronha/India Today

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Indigo to stop services in Kadapa Airport

IndiGo Airlines will stop flying to Kadapa because they haven't been paid the money they were promised. The AP state government had said they would give IndiGo Rs. 20 crores every year to help them fly to Kadapa. This deal was made after another airline, Trujet, stopped its services for half a year.

Earlier, TDP leader N Chandrababu Naidu had asked Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for flights from Kadapa to big cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore. Based on their agreement, IndiGo started these flights on March 27, 2022.

But, because the government didn't give the money they promised, IndiGo is now saying they will stop flights from Kadapa after September 1. They also stopped selling tickets online.

However, after a meeting with local official Vijayarama Raju, IndiGo decided they'll sell tickets online again until September 15. What happens after that will depend on if the government pays or not.

23/08/2023 AP7am

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AAI to set up civil enclave in Ambala for RCS flight operations: Anil Vij

Chandigarh: Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Wednesday said the Airports Authority of India will set up a civil enclave in Ambala for operations of flights under the Regional Connectivity Scheme.

The Haryana aviation department will transfer more than Rs 133 crore to the Ministry of Defence for the purpose, to which the state government has given its approval, Vij said, according to an official statement.

Vij said the Civil Enclave will be established on about 20 acres, alongside the Air Force station of Ambala, and work on it will start soon.

He said a Rs 16-crore tender has been floated for the operation of the civil enclave.

A civil enclave is an area of military airbase allotted for civil aviation use.

Vij said that the civil enclave was sanctioned under the UDAN scheme.

According to the statement, Vij made tireless efforts to set up the enclave and it has now been approved and flight operations will also start soon.

23/08/2023 PTI/Business Standard

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Indore Gets Air Connectivity With Surat, Rajkot; Check Schedule For Both IndiGo Operated Flights Here

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): There is good news for flyers of the region who were looking for a direct flight for Surat and Rajkot from the city. IndiGo, the leading private sector airline rolled out the direct flights from the city from Monday.

For the first time in the morning, the aircraft departed for Rajkot from the city. Being the first direct flight, the airlines welcomed passengers.

TK Jose, president of MP Chapter of Travel Agents’ Federation of India (TAFI), informed here on Monday that IndiGo rolled-out operation of both the flights from Monday. Earlier the city was connected with only one city of Gujarat that is Ahmedabad. In view of this, it is believed that air connectivity from the city to Gujarat will be strong and these flights will be of great help to the tourists as well as businessmen. Surat is a major manufacturing hub of textile items and diamond cutting and polishing. Similarly the city also has huge business of these items.

Till a few years ago, IndiGo was operating the flights from the city to Surat, but later its operations were suspended. Under the current summer schedule of flight operations, IndiGo had announced the commencement of these flights starting from March 28, but later it was extended to July 1, but even on July 1, the airline could not begin these flights and the date was once again extended to August 21. Just a few days ago, the airline began booking of tickets and on Monday for the first time, the flight left for Rajkot at 6:37 am. There were more than 40 passengers in it. The Surat flight also began from the evening. Both these flights will operate daily and will be done by a 72-seater ATR aircraft.

22/08/2023 Free Press Journal

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Passenger falls sick, Lucknow-Sharjah flight makes emergency landing

Jaipur: A Lucknow-Sharjah flight made an emergency landing at Jaipur International Airport late on Sunday night after a 23-year-old passenger informed the aircraft crew that he was feeling unwell.

Officials from Jaipur International Airport on Monday said that they received information about a flight making emergency landing at the airport at 10:56pm on Sunday. The flight landed at 11:28pm. “The passenger was from Trichy and was flying to Sharjah from Bengaluru via Lucknow. He informed the aircraft crew that he was feeling unwell, after which we were informed about emergency landing. All preparations were done to ensure that the passenger reaches hospital at the earliest. The passenger’s ambulance left the airport at 11:40pm from where he was taken to a city hospital for a check-up,” said an official from the Jaipur airport.

Officials said the passenger was discharged from the hospital around 1am. The passenger then contacted the airlines and informed them that he would fly back home and not go to his original destination.

22/08/2023 Times of India

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President Murmu On 3-Day Goa Visit; Flight Passengers Asked To Reach Dabolim Airport Early Due To Traffic Restrictions

President Droupadi Murmu will arrive on a three-day visit to Goa on Tuesday during which she will address the state legislative assembly and also participate in the Goa University's convocation ceremony, a government official said.

On Tuesday, Murmu will lay a wreath at the Martyr's Memorial at Azad Maidan in state capital Panaji and also attend a civic reception in the Raj Bhavan, the official said.

On Wednesday, Murmu will attend the Goa University's convocation ceremony at Durbar Hall in the Raj Bhavan. She would later interact with members of vulnerable tribal groups in the coastal state, he said. The President will also address the state legislative assembly on Wednesday, the official said. 

The Goa police have appealed to people scheduled to take flights from the Dabolim airport on Tuesday evening to reach the airport early due to restricted traffic movement owing to the President's visit.

State Director General of Police Jaspal Singh in a post on X on Monday said, “In view of the visit of Hon'ble President of India to Goa, those passengers who have to fly from Dabolim say at 5 pm/6pm, and 7 pm they must reach the airport by 3.30 pm as traffic movement would be restricted after 3.45 pm on roads leading to Dabolim."

    An advisory issued by the state police said traffic on the road from Dabolim to Dona Paula and further inside Panaji city would be restricted from 3.15 pm to 5 pm on Tuesday.

    Traffic flow would be affected on Tuesday on the stretches of National Highway 566 from Dabolim Airport to Verna, NH66 Verna to Bambolim, GMC to Dona Paula, Dona Paula to Miramar Circle, Miramar Circle to Bandodkar statue, the police said.

22/08/2023 PTI/Outlook

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Many international airlines switching from Goa Dabolim to Goa Mopa in Winter 2023 Schedules

Earlier in 2023, Goa got the North Goa Airport, also called Mopa or Manohar International Airport (GOX), started domestic operations. At the time, there was also an ambitious timeline for international operations. However, those operations started eventually.

In July 2023, Air India became the first airline to swap their thrice weekly London operations from Goa to operate from the Manohar International Airport instead of the Dabolim Airport. Now, many other airlines are ready to switch as well.

Oman Air: Oman Air, which was the first airline to have planned to move to Goa Mopa, is now planning to start with the winter schedule. The airline will switch to Goa Manohar Airport on October 29, 2023.

Aeroflot Russian Airlines: Aeroflot, which will resume seasonal operations to India in October 2023, will start flying to GOX instead of GOI with its six weekly flights. They will operate thrice weekly from Ekaterinburg (737) and Moscow Sheremetyevo (A333) each.

TUI Airways: Holiday specialist TUI Airways of the UK is also planning to move to Mopa as of November 2023 when the seasonal flights start arriving into Goa. TUI will operate twice weekly from London Gatwick and Manchester into Mopa.

21/08/2023 Live from a Lounge

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Manohar International Airport In Goa Now Authorised Immigration Check Post For E-Visa Holders

The Manohar International Airport (MIA) in Goa is now an authorised immigration check post for the entry of individuals holding e-visas, a spokesperson of the airport said. The international flights commenced at the MIA on July 21, with the arrival of a flight from London-Gatwick airport, he said. The MIA, located in North Goa, is developed and operated by GMR Goa International Airport Ltd (GGIAL), a subsidiary of the GMR Airports Infrastructure Ltd. The MIA is now an authorised immigration check post (ICP) for those holding e-visas, the spokesperson said in a media statement. “In an effort to ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience for international travellers, the MIA has achieved the esteemed status of an authorised ICP for the entry of individuals possessing e-visas. The e-visas are granted to foreigners with intentions such as leisure, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment and business purposes within India,” he said. The individuals holding e-visas are granted entry into India exclusively through designated international airports and seaports, the spokesperson said. With the e-visa facility now operational at the MIA, international guests can expect an effortless entry process. “The airport eagerly anticipates the gradual addition of more international carriers to its repertoire,” he said.

21/08/2023 TravelBizMonitor

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IndiGo announces connectivity to Jaisalmer

Pune: IndiGo on a Monday announced Jaisalmer in Rajasthan as the 81st domestic and 113th overall destination in its network.

The airline will launch new and daily connections between Jaisalmer-Delhi, Jaisalmer-Mumbai, Jaisalmer-Jaipur and Jaisalmer-Ahmedabad, effective October 12, airline officials said.

These new routes will significantly bolster tourism, trade, and mobility by connecting Jaisalmer to some of the commercial and industrial hubs of the country, officials added.

This will also provide customers with increased flight options some of the not only be beneficial for business travellers but also mesmerize leisure travellers.

With the addition of this new destination in IndiGo’s domestic route network, the airline will strategically promote reginal connectivity, and economic growth by providing a gateway for tourists and business travellers to and from Jaisalmer.

21/08/2023 Joy Sengupta/Times of India

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Operations begin at Rs 700-crore new terminal of Port Blair airport

Operations at the new terminal building of the Port Blair airport began on Monday morning, officials said. The operations began with the arrival of an IndiGo flight from Chennai. The flight, 6E-6213, landed at the Veer Savarkar International Airport with 83 passengers at 7.10 am, they said.

The second plane which arrived was of Air India. The flight, AI-549, landed at 7.20 am with 84 passengers from Chennai, they added.

The IndiGo plane was also the first one to depart from Port Blair, at 7.35 am with 159 passengers for Chennai. The Air India flight also returned to Chennai with 161 passengers.

A special programme was organised at the new terminal to mark the commencement of operations. Besides tribal dance forms, the flyers were welcomed with flower bouquets and traditional 'aarti and tilak' on the first day.

Nicobari traditional hats made of palm fronds were also gifted to them.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the new integrated terminal building of the airport in the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on July 18.

The new terminal, which is shaped like a shell depicting the natural environs of the islands, has been built at a cost of Rs 707.73 crore.

21/08/2023 PTI/Economic Times

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G20 Summit: Centre plans to use nearby airports for parking of VVIP planes due to space shortage in Delhi

Ahead of the G20 summit in Delhi, it has turned out that the national capital does not have enough space to accommodate VVIP aircraft that are about to arrive for the summit in September. About 50 aircraft are expected to land at the Delhi airport while the Indira Gandhi International Airport and the IAF base in Palam jointly have a capacity to accommodate 40 aircraft only.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is exploring other possible options to direct the rest of the aircraft. The government is considering airports in cities like Amritsar, Jaipur, Lucknow and Indore to park the VVIP aircraft.

As per the Indian Express report, in a recent coordination meeting chaired by the chief of protocol from MEA, it was discussed that 50 VVIP aircraft are set to land and 13 heads of state or delegates are expected to come in commercial flights for the G20 Summit. Special details about the aircraft, including their features, date, time and other information will be shared later. The special aircraft will be parked in Bay-1 and Bay-3 at IGI Airport, which is very close to the ceremonial lounge itself.

The coordination meeting was attended by the officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Indian Air Force (IAF), Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

During the discussion, a suggestion to close one of the runways of Indira Gandhi International Airport was made. The runway will be used as a parking space. However, the representatives of the airport said that all runways need to be open for landings during the summit. Meanwhile, after considering multiple options, the four cities of Amritsar, Indore, Jaipur and Lucknow airports have been shortlisted to accommodate VVIP aircraft, the report added.

21/08/2023 CNBCTV18.com 

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‘Noida airport will have a western and an eastern side with road, rail links for both’

Christoph Schellmann, CEO of Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd (YIAPL), the Zurich AG subsidiary which is building the Noida airport, says the company is working closely with the UP government for rail and road connectivity.

The possibility of a bus service like the one in Bangalore is also under consideration, he says in an interview. Excerpts:

Under the state support agreement, what are the specific connectivity projects promised by the government for access to the Noida International Airport?

Connectivity is very important. Fundamentally, it’s at the heart of what we do. And one of the things that we’re really encouraged about is that there is such a broad appreciation among various stakeholders in this project of the importance not just of air connectivity but also multimodal ground connectivity to and from the airport. We signed the state support agreement with the government of UP in March 2021.

We’ve been working with the government since before the signing of the agreement as part of our master plan to sort of agree on how this airport will be connected to its catchment area, to Noida, to western UP, to Delhi and the (rest of) NCR.

The site was very well selected for the airport. So, the airport site per se is very well connected. It’s almost adjacent to the Yamuna Expressway. So, you know, taking you to Noida in maybe 45 minutes, Greater Noida in 25 minutes, taking you to the Taj Mahal itself in two hours. So, the Yamuna Expressway will be certainly the lifeline of the airport initially.

20/08/2023 Aditya Dev/Times of India

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Port Blair: Veer Savarkar Airport's new terminal building to begin operations from Aug 21

Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the new integrated terminal building at the Veer Savarkar International Airport in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on July 18.

Operations at the new terminal building of the Port Blair airport will begin on Monday (August 21), officials said. A special programme has been organised at the new terminal to mark the commencement of operations, said an Airport Authority of India (AAI) official. Besides tribal dance forms, the flyers will be welcomed with bouquets and traditional 'aarti and tilak' on the first day, he told PTI.

20/08/2023 PTI/Deccan Herald

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Centre for animals hit by airport project to come up near Dhanauri

Noida: The Yamuna Expressway Authority will construct a rescue and rehabilitation centre for the animals affected by the Noida International Airport in Jewar.

The centre, which is set to come up on 10 hectares near Dhanauri wetland at a cost of Rs 4.5 crore, was to be built by the forest department earlier. It will include a veterinary hospital, quarantine centre and enclosures for various animals, including blackbucks, nilgais and monkeys, among others.

Additionally, Rs 90 lakh will be allocated for Dhanauri wetland’s conservation efforts, encompassing grassland management, removal of wild growth from water bodies and the construction of wooden watchtowers, natural trails and floating platforms for migratory birds. The combined project cost of Rs 5.4 crore will be borne by the shareholders of Noida International Airport Ltd (NIAL), a special purpose vehicle of the government for the airport.

Previously, the NIAL was supposed to fund the construction of the centre while the management of the project was to be overseen by the forest department.

YEIDA and NIAL CEO Arun Vir Singh said, “A meeting with senior officials of the UP forest department was held on August 14, in which it was decided that YEIDA will execute the project. As soon as we receive the written order, the Yamuna Authority will start the work. The rescue centre will be ready before the airport becomes operational.”

Nilgai, blackbuck, Indian gazelle, monkeys, golden jackals, jungle cats and sarus cranes are present in and around the project site. The Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, which has prepared a biodiversity conservation plan, suggested that a rescue centre be set up to rehabilitate the affected fauna.

As per the WII report, blackbucks and sarus cranes are the two key species found on the land acquired for the international airport. A survey of the 1,334 hectares, where the first phase of the airport is coming up, and an adjacent 10km to 25km radius of the area found 258 blackbucks. They recorded the largest group of 29 blackbucks on the south-eastern part of the airport, close to Rohi-Parohi villages.

19/08/2023 Aditya Dev & Anjali Singh/Times of India

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Bird hits: Thiruvananthapuram Corporation to set up rendering plant at Vallakadavu

Thiruvananthapuram: In view of increasing incidents of bird hits at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, the city corporation, jointly with the Suchitwa Mission, is drawing up a proposal to set up a rendering plant at Vallakadavu to scientifically handle the slaughter waste. According to official sources, the proposal is in its final stages, and the plan is to implement the project using the CSR funds from the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL).

Illegal slaughtering and unscientific handling of slaughter waste are cited as the primary reasons for the growing number of bird hits. As per the data from the airport authorities, 25 incidents of bird hits have been reported between January and July this year. A total of 42 incidents (both confirmed and suspected) were reported between April 2022 and April 2023.

The airport authorities have deployed sanitation workers to handle the illegally dumped waste on their property to minimise the number of bird hits. The airport authorities had approached the district collector seeking intervention in the matter.

An official said, as per the current policy of the government, revenue land can be used for setting up waste treatment facilities. “Revenue land is available near Bangladesh Colony at Vallakadavu. The district administration has agreed to hand it over to set up the plant. The proposal is being finalised and a decision on the capacity of the rendering plant is pending. If it’s a small plant with a capacity to treat one tonne, the cost will come to around Rs 20 lakh,” said the official. 

As per a recent survey, there are around 319 poultry shops under the corporation’s jurisdiction, and on average, 22,094 birds are slaughtered every day. Vallakadavu is one of the hotspots where illegal slaughtering is rampant.

19/08/2023 Shainu Mohan/New Indian Express

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Bihar CM Nitish Kumar inaugurates new building of civil aviation directorate near Patna airport

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar on Friday inaugurated the newly constructed building of state’s civil aviation directorate near the Jaiprakash Narayan international (JPNI) airport in Patna.

Soon after the inauguration, the CM inspected the directorate building.

He also held a meeting with the officials in the conference hall of the new building and took detailed information about the arrangements made in the directorate building.

After that, the CM took stock of the ongoing construction and beautification works at the JPNI airport and issued necessary instructions to the officials.

While responding to media queries outside the airport, the CM said the state government was making a separate approach road so that people do not face any kind of difficulty in reaching the Patna airport.

Nitish also said when the proposed civil airport at Bihta would become functional, people would have more accessibility.

He said the state government would ensure that people do not face any kind of difficulty while going and coming out from the both airports.

While talking about the ongoing construction works at the airport, Nitish said the development works were being executed in the area of the state government. “The work of one part has been finished, while the work of another part is in progress. I have come here to take stock of the ongoing construction works,” he said.

18/08/2023 Madan Kumar/Times of India

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As air-traffic zooms, Indian airports need thousands more staff, says study

New Delhi: As more and more people take flights and the network of airports grows in the country, there will be greater demand for security personnel and immigration staff at airports, Mint has reported, citing an aviation ministry study. Capacity expansion is necessary to avoid the long hours of inconvenience for passengers, similar to what was seen at the beginning of the year.

As many as 3,800 more Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel and 440 more immigration staff are required to cater to just eight airports, the report said, citing the study. The study evaluated the metro airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai, along with those located in Bagdora, Indore, Jammu and Srinagar.

The aviation ministry had sought inputs from these airports about the status of their operation and preparations for the peak travel season. This was done as part of the study that was started earlier this year, the Mint report said.

A government official aware of the matter told Mint, “In line with the shortage identified, the Civil Aviation Ministry and other stakeholders are working to deploy additional manpower by CISF in two phases by October and by November. The staff reinforcement from the Bureau of Immigration is expected to start by October."

Earlier this year, the airports struggled to handle the surge in traffic. As people stood in long queues outside, the airports were flooded with frustrated passengers. This resulted in several complaints being lodged, prompting Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia to step in to provide relief.

To prevent a similar situation, airport officials held several rounds of discussions with the representatives of the ministry to identify the challenging areas and suggest stop-gap arrangements.

18/08/2023 Business Standard

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Uncertainty looms over construction of new ATC tower in Kozhikode airport

Kondotty: The project for building a new ATC (Air Traffic Control) tower at the Kozhikode International Airport is in limbo due to land constraints. The plan was to construct a technical block building and a new tower in the wireless station compound. But the expert committee of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) who arrived from Delhi to examine the feasibility of the project, only gave consent to build the technical building and not the tower. 

 It is said that the expert committee while granting permission for the construction of the new technical building had asked the Kozhikode airport authorities to construct the new ATC tower opposite the terminal. However, due to the non-availability of land, the tower can’t be constructed in that area. The 18-metre-long ATC tower at Kozhikode airport is situated adjacent to the parking bay. 

The current tower stands close to the runway which is in violation of international guidelines. As per the rules, the requirement is 140 m runway strip on either side of the runway centre line. Also, the tower height should be seven times the height of the existing ATC tower. The airport authorities intended to discard the old building as part of the renovation works. Moving the tower from its current location will allow more parking space for airplanes. 

 17/08/2023 A Suresh/Mathrubhumi

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Feasibility study on to make Delhi airport an international hub: Jyotiraditya Scindia

The government plans to develop the Indira Gandhi International Airport in the Capital as the country’s first international hub airport and is conducting a feasibility study for the same, civil aviation minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia said. “We are conducting a feasibility study on stakeholder collaboration and multi-modal connectivity – to, from and within the airport — and working to ensure that minimum connect time is reduced to globally acceptable levels,” Scindia told Fe.

The study is likely to be over by next month.

Apart from Delhi, airports at Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Thiruvananthapuram also  have the potential to be developed as hub airports.

An international hub airport synergises the domestic and international airports in a manner that passengers can transit from one to the other in a seamless manner.

For this, the airport requires metro, road and highway connectivity as well as strong airline networks spanning both the domestic and international destinations.

At present, there are no international hub airports in the country and a substantial number of passengers from India transit via such facilities located in Middle East and Southeast Asia.

“Recently, Delhi Airport became the first airport in India to not only have a fourth runway but also an elevated cross taxiway. DigiYatra at the airport for domestic passengers is already showing positive results,” Scindia said.

17/08/2023 Rohit Vaid/Financial Express

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Who picked the techie's bag? Bengaluru's Kempegowda Airport authorities trying to find the answer

In a concerning incident at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), a 28-year-old software engineer returning from Germany inadvertently left behind one of his bags upon disembarking. The bag was subsequently picked up by another passenger, shedding light on a lapse in airport security protocols.

The software engineer, who goes by the pseudonym Satish, hails from Andhra Pradesh and resides in Thimmaiah Layout, Whitefield. He had arrived in Bengaluru via an Emirates flight at approximately 3 am on July 30.

Satish explained to KIA police that a fellow passenger who had arrived from Sharjah during the early hours of July 30 had unknowingly walked away with his bag. The bag contained valuable items including a laptop, his MTech marks card, documents related to his stay in Germany, a wireless headphone, mobile phone chargers and adapters, and Rs 3,000 in cash.

"I completed the immigration clearance procedure and collected my luggage. Unfortunately, I forgot to retrieve my laptop bag. I realized my oversight just as I exited the main entrance. Despite my attempts, the CISF authorities denied me re-entry," disclosed Satish.

He was subsequently directed to approach an Indian airline counter associated with Emirates. The airline personnel, after investigating the matter, informed Satish that his bag was not within the arrivals area. However, they assured him of a response within two days.

Following futile attempts to resolve the issue via email, Satish escalated the matter to the attention of the police. Citing the originality of his marks card and the company-issued laptop, he felt compelled to register a formal case.

Subsequent investigations by police uncovered that a passenger named Shameer Pulkuzhiyi, who had arrived in the city from Sharjah, had mistakenly taken Satish's bag from the ground handler. Reportedly, the ground handlers handed over the bag to Shameer without proper verification.

16/08/2023 Economic Times

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Now, Mopa int’l airport starts accepting e-visas

Panaji: The Manohar International Airport on Thursday announced that it has started accepting e-visas. The move is seen as a huge relief to tour operators and international passengers.

Since the news about the non-availability of the facility at the new airport in North Goa was out, it had raised concern among tourism stakeholders. Soon after the new airport became operational earlier this year, several airlines announced their plans to land at Mopa.

A month ago, Air India shifted its operations to Manohar International Airport but soon the non-availability of e-visas at the facility posed a problem for its UK passengers.

Raising the issue on the floor of the House in the legislative assembly on August 8, GFP MLA Vijai Sardesai had said that all flights from London should be moved back to Goa International Airport, Dabolim, to avoid inconvenience to travellers. The Dabolim airport being a naval one, offers limited slots for international flights.

Tour operators were worried since August-September is the crucial period when bookings and inquiries from international destinations take place, and foreign arrivals of charter tourists and free independent travellers (FITs) begin from October.

While the last season was good, numbers were nowhere close to the annual footfalls of 8-9 lakh international tourists that Goa received before the pandemic.

17/08/2023 Times of India

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Hyderabad Airport: 70,000 cars and 6000 students daily

Due to the heavy traffic at hyderabad shamshabad airport brought on by the large number of students who fly overseas for their studies, the police have restricted accompanying people. Over the past 10 days, shamshabad airport has seen a daily departure rate of 5,000–6,000 people heading abroad for further education. Additionally, every day, 70,000 cars enter and exit the airport. 50,000 domestic passengers and 10,000 foreign travellers pass through rajiv gandhi International airport each day on average.

The situation is unchanged despite a warning. Due to a high-security alert for Independence Day, students are only permitted to be accompanied by three individuals. The telangana government suggested a second airport near Hakimpet for hyderabad due to the city's rapid growth and congestion. These issues would be resolved for the airport.

A police officer from the shamshabad police DCP office verified to india Herald that a student should not be accompanied by more than three people. The advise notes that there has been a notable increase in the number of meeters/greeters at the airport due to the annual rush of student traffic travelling overseas for education. With an average of 50 to 60 visitors every passenger and a significant number of vehicles, the approach road and ramps get congested.

17/08/2023 India Herald

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Goa govt allows 24-hr liquor sale at airport outlets

Panaji: The Goa government on Wednesday notified the Goa Excise Duty Rules, allowing licensed retail liquor outlets at airports and letting those outlets be open for 24 hours. The amendment to the excise rules has been presumably made keeping in mind Manohar International Airport’s operations. A month ago, the liquor trade had protested apprehending a move by the government to allow liquor outlets on the premises of Manohar International Airport. 

The issue was raised on the floor of the House in the recently concluded monsoon session.

Responding to the query by GFP MLA Vijai Sardesai, chief minister Pramod Sawant told the House that since all other airports in the country have retail liquor outlets, the government saw no reason why they should not be permitted at Manohar International Airport. Sardesai responded by saying that only a Goan should be issued a licence.

17/08/2023 Times of India

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Sonari airport operations powered through solar energy with commissioning of 2.0 MWp

Jamshedpur: The entire operations of Tata Steel-owned Sonari Airport here will now be powered through solar energy with the commissioning of a ground-mounted solar power project of 2.0 MWp (Megawatt peak) capacity, a company statement said on Wednesday.

The project commissioned on Monday has been commissioned by Tata Power under an agreement with Tata Steel for the installation of a total of 41 MW with a combination of rooftop, floating and ground-mounted solar panels across its locations..

Earlier, four rooftop solar projects totalling 7.65 MWp have been commissioned at its Central Warehouse, Cold Rolling Mill, Wire Rod Mill and Hot Strip Mill. A floating solar power project of 10.8 MWp in Tata Steel Jamshedpur Works is also nearing completion. 

16/08/2023 PTI

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Plan for agri packhouse at Mopa flies into confusion

Panaji: The government appears to have contradicted itself by saying that there is no proposal to set up a packing-cum-sorting facility for agricultural produce at Mopa international airport. Agriculture minister Ravi Naik had said in November 2022 that his department has approached GMR Goa International Airports Limited (GGIAL) to discuss the establishment of such a facility. The agriculture department had planned to build an integrated packhouse to export fresh fruits and vegetables by flights.

However, the department recently informed the state legislative assembly in writing that no proposal of that nature was made.

In the reply, Naik also admitted that “there are no existing packhouses of the directorate of agriculture in the state for agricultural produce”. The lacuna affects the ability of local farmers to export produce to other states and countries.

The lack of certified packhouses for perishables and of accredited testing labs in Goa hinder the exports of vegetables and fruits not only from Goa but also from districts of the neighbouring states.

Records show that officials from the directorate of agriculture visited Mopa airport on November 8 to explore the possibility of setting up a packhouse.

17/08/2023 Times of India

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Sonari airport operations powered through solar energy with commissioning of 2.0 MWp

Jamshedpur: The entire operations of Tata Steel-owned Sonari Airport here will now be powered through solar energy with the commissioning of a ground-mounted solar power project of 2.0 MWp (Megawatt peak) capacity, a company statement said on Wednesday.

The project commissioned on Monday has been commissioned by Tata Power under an agreement with Tata Steel for the installation of a total of 41 MW with a combination of rooftop, floating and ground-mounted solar panels across its locations..

Earlier, four rooftop solar projects totalling 7.65 MWp have been commissioned at its Central Warehouse, Cold Rolling Mill, Wire Rod Mill and Hot Strip Mill. A floating solar power project of 10.8 MWp in Tata Steel Jamshedpur Works is also nearing completion. 

16/08/2023 PTI

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Delhi International airport gears up to receive leaders for G20

New Delhi: With less than a month left for the G20 summit in Delhi, works are going in full swing to ensure that the arrival of leaders and their delegation is seamless, safe, and on time.

“In order to make flight landings with dignitaries seamless, the flights carrying the leaders (which includes Prime Ministers, Presidents) would be allowed to land at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, on a first come first served basis. While additional aircraft, including stand-by aircraft, logistics flights, and flights with additional delegates and security staff can be diverted to other nearby airports,’’ according to a source.

Since the airport is located about 30 minutes from the meeting venue, delegates, and their teams have been advised to arrive in New Delhi latest by September 8th evening and stay until September 10th. Since some leaders will be coming in with their own security, there is an advisory that has been issued for those carrying weapons and communication equipment.

“No weapons will be allowed to be brought in by delegation members or accompanying security at any of the venues. Any communications equipment brought in by visiting delegations will be checked by the customs officials on arrival.

Details of any such equipment as well as request for usage of wireless communication equipment by security officers of the visiting dignitary and allotment of desired frequency will need to be shared with in advance,’’ the source added.

Dedicated lanes will be made at immigration counters to fast-track delegates. Only prescription drugs will be permitted and any currency above the $10000 limit will have to be declared to the customs. 

16/08/2023 Yeshi Seli/New Indian Express

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Telangana government plan to develop Mamnoor airport triggers realty boom

Warangal: The State government’s recent decision to revive and develop the defunct Nizam-era Mamnoor airport by allocating 200 acres to the Airport Authority of India (AAI) has triggered a real estate boom in the surrounding villages here. Agriculture land prices have taken wings as realtors are scouting for land to develop housing ventures and build high-rise apartments.

Developers are approaching both the AAI authorities and Greater Warangal Municipal Corporation (GWMC) for permission for residential and commercial complexes. Warangal, the capital city of the Kakatiya dynasty and known for its architectural grandeur and cultural heritage, has become the second largest city after Hyderabad in the State after the formation of Telangana. Well connected by road and rail network, the city has potential to become a commercial hub and the Mamnoor airport will play a considerable role in its development.

Farmers in the villages surrounding the airport have raised the price of an acre of land to Rs 2 crore after the government’s announcement to develop the airport. An acre of agricultural land here commanded a price of Rs 1 crore before that.

For instance, farmers of Nakkalapally village were not interested in selling their agricultural land. Now, with the land boom setting in, they are ready to part with their agricultural land. The development has come as a boon for the farmers who did not make enough to make both ends meet by toiling in the fields throughout the year. Now, they can lead a decent life even if they sell an acre of their farmland.

16/08/2023  U Mahesh/New Indian Express

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Hassan Airport to be ready by December

Hassan: The much-awaited Hassan Airport, which is coming up near Bhuvanahalli, will be completed by December this year, said district in-charge Minister KN Rajanna on Tuesday.

Unfurling the Tricolour during the 77th Independence Day celebrations, he said over 70% of works, including the runway, have been completed in the Rs 200-crore project that was started three years ago. 

He said the state government is committed to completing ongoing projects in a phased manner and the guarantee schemes will be implemented effectively. “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will launch the Gruha Lakshmi guarantee scheme on August 27. The government has also released Rs 5 crore to pay compensation to families affected by the recent rain in the district,” he added.

Rajanna said the government is committed to overall development of the state and uplift of the downtrodden through social justice. 

16/09/2023 New Indian Express

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Airports Authority of India to operate over 100 airports with renewable energy by 2024

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) will operate more than 100 airports with renewable energy by 2024, Chairman Sanjeev Kumar has revealed. In alignment with the AAI’s progressive ethos and environmental responsibility, Kumar stated that the Authority aims to integrate all existing airport structures and new developments into GRIHA-5 standards, striving to power all operational airports using renewable energy by December 2024.

Observing the accumulation of passengers at numerous airports across the nation as a positive indicator for the aviation industry, Kumar also conveyed that the coming years will witness the organization’s adept handling of infrastructure expansion challenges. He asserted that tackling congestion is imperative and underscored the proactive efforts of Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia in this regard.

Over the past six to eight months, Scindia has initiated various measures to cater to the escalating passenger demands and enhance airport infrastructure, Kumar informed ANI. The enhancement of airport infrastructure involves augmenting gate and counter capacities, as well as bolstering manpower, an endeavor to be embraced by airports, airlines, and operators.

Kumar revealed that the congestion witnessed at airports during recent months was personally monitored by Home Minister Amit Shah. Speaking while unfurling the flag on Independence Day at the Delhi Air Traffic Services Complex of the Airports Authority of India situated at IGI Airport in New Delhi, Kumar also expressed pride in India’s monumental order for approximately 1000 aircraft, shaping the nation’s aviation future.

16/08/2023 Financial Express 

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Kozhikode airport privatisation faces political opposition

Malappuram: The Central government's plan to privatise the profit-making Kozhikode international airport at Karipur in Malappuram district has met with political opposition. Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), which has a strong presence in the district, said there was no need to privatise the airport which is the third highest profit-making airport under the Airport Authority of India (AAI).

Local MP and the chairman of the Airport Advisory Council, M P Abdusamad Samadani told Onmanorama that the profit-making airport can continue in the public sector. "For years, we have been demanding the Centre to take initiatives for the further development of the airport. This would help attract more aircraft and passengers thereby improving its revenue,” he said. He was responding to a reply given by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation V K Singh on Monday in the Rajya Sabha where he said Karipur airport would be privatised along with others as decided earlier. 

 As per the data tabled by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in Lok Sabha, the Karipur airport made a net profit of Rs 95.38 crore for the year 2022-23, only behind Chennai (Rs 169.50 crore) and Kolkata (Rs 482,30 crore). All three airports come under public sector AAI. However, industrialists believe that privatisation is the only way to upgrade the airport. 

K M Basheer, president of the Malabar Development Forum, said business houses have been alerting authorities how the airport was falling behind its regional rivals like Kochi international airport. "Passengers from the region depend on Kochi airport for better flights and direct connectivity to major cities. We believe privatisation would help develop the airport faster and attract many more airlines,” he said. 

 15/08/2023 Onmanorama

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