IndiGo flight lands in Guangzhou as airline resumes direct India-China services

An IndiGo flight from Delhi successfully reached Guangzhou on Tuesday, marking the resumption of direct flight services between India and China by the airline.

The arrival of the flight in China signifies the restoration of direct air connectivity between the two nations by the carrier. Following the resumption of these services, the Delhi-Guangzhou route is expected to facilitate easier travel for passengers.

This development occurs amid warming bilateral relations between the two neighbours. Parallel to IndiGo's expansion, Air China has resumed Beijing-Delhi flight services, providing a major boost to air connectivity.

According to a report by the Global Times, the Air China service will run three times a week on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Economy class fares start from approximately USD 523 (3,570 yuan), with flights departing Beijing at 3:15 pm and arriving in Delhi at 8:20 pm local time.

30/04/2026 ANI/ET Travel World

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Indian Airlines To Resume Full Operations To Doha From May 1

New Delhi: India's leading airlines are preparing to restore full-scale operations at Hamad International Airport from May 1, marking a significant step towards normalisation of air connectivity in the region.

The resumption comes exactly two months after a joint US-Israeli military offensive launched on February 28 targeting Iranian leadership and nuclear facilities. This escalated into a broader regional conflict.

Three major Indian carriers -- Air India, Air India Express and IndiGo -- are expected to lead the resumption, reconnecting Doha with several key Indian metropolitan cities and regional hubs.

"Indian carriers plan to resume operations at Hamad International Airport, Doha, as flight operations continue to expand. Air India, Air India Express and IndiGo plan to resume their flight services between Doha and various destinations in India starting May 1, 2026," the Embassy of India in Doha said in a post on X.

The Embassy highlighted that the move is part of a coordinated effort involving global aviation authorities working to stabilise operations in the region.

At the same time, it cautioned that flight schedules remain subject to ongoing coordination, underscoring the still-fragile security environment.

30/04/2026 NDTV World

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Nepal Airlines shows J&K as part of Pakistan in map, apologises after backlash

State-owned carrier Nepal Airlines has come under fire for a recent post that shows the entire Jammu and Kashmir as part of Pakistan on its "network map". After global backlash, the airlines issued an apology for the incorrect map of India within 24 hours, calling it a "cartographic inaccuracy".

The controversy erupted on Wednesday after the airline's social media handle shared a route map in which the entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were shown as part of Pakistan's territory. The image didn't take time to go viral on X and Facebook, drawing flak from Indian users.

Soon, the hashtag #BoycottNepalAirlines began trending, with users urging the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Aviation Ministry to lodge a diplomatic protest with Nepal.

30/04/2026 India Today

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Drunk British Airways passenger told crew 'I want to fight you' before police escorted him off plane

Yogeshwar Sharma had a bottle of vodka and took two doses of prescription medication before he got on a flight to Delhi, India.

After being told he was too drunk to fly, he shouted "f*** off" at staff.

The 51-year-old later tried to spit at police officers and punched a paramedic at Heathrow Airport.

Sharma refused to leave the plane once police arrived.

He took out a lighter and started to vape after being told he was not allowed to smoke.

Uxbridge Magistrates' Court heard that Sharma was escorted off the plane when he tried to spit at officers and lunged towards paramedic Mick Hinde.

Mr Hinde said in a statement that he managed to dodge the worst of the blow so was not injured but that Sharma's fist hit his chin.

Sharma does not remember getting on the plane and was 'appalled' by his actions, the court heard.

Antonia Gray, defending, said: "The reality of the situation is he has absolutely no recollection of the incident.

28/04/2026 BirminghamLive

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Why India has tightened rules for foreign airlines

India's Directorate-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) recently introduced stricter guidelines for foreign airlines operating to and from India. The regulator can now revoke or suspend the authorisation of overseas carriers for failure to meet required safety standards.

We take a look at the new rules:

What do foreign carriers have to do under the new rules?

Vir Vikram Yadav, the new DGCA chief, said foreign carriers can now nominate or appoint a representative to deal with these issues. They must also establish an effective passenger grievance redressal mechanism, set up a complaints database and also give reports to the DGCA.

Airlines will have to get unique login credentials by uploading authenticated documents. The regulator will verify the credentials and then ensure portal access.

Why have these new rules been introduced now?

These moves are part of efforts to improve transparency, compliance and accountability of the carriers. Foreign airlines will have to ensure that their operations align with India’s civil aviation laws. The regulator can now suspend the operating authorisation of a foreign operator if it fails to maintain scheduled operations for four consecutive IATA seasons at specific Indian airports.

This is to ensure that airlines do not arbitrarily suspend services from airports without giving adequate notice and would help maintain continuity in service for Indian passengers. Foreign airlines will have also have to register on the DGCA’s ‘eGovernance of Civil Aviation (eGCA) portal.

What are the benefits of these changes for passengers?

A passenger grievance mechanism will enable travellers to complain to the DGCA if they feel the foreign airline has failed to meet required service standards.

29/04/2026 Nithin Belle/Khaleej Times

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13,194 pilgrims from Kerala to perform Haj; inaugural flight from Kochi on April 30

The first Haj flight from Kerala will depart from Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery to Jeddah at 2.10 p.m. on Thursday, carrying 430 pilgrims under the Haj Committee. A total of 13,194 pilgrims from the State are scheduled to perform Haj this year under the Haj Committee.

State Haj Committee chairman Husain Saqafi Chullikkode said here that the State’s embarkation points at Kochi, Kozhikode, and Kannur were fully prepared for the pilgrimage. The State-level Haj camp will start functioning in Kochi on Wednesday.

Of the pilgrims, 7,943 will fly from Kochi, 4,279 from Kannur and 944 from Karipur. High airfares from Karipur have led many pilgrims to opt for Kochi and Kannur instead.

Mr. Saqafi also said that 28 pilgrims from Kerala would depart from airports in other States. In addition, pilgrims from other regions will also travel from Kerala’s airports, including 107 from Lakshadweep, 39 from Puducherry, 263 from Tamil Nadu, 239 from Karnataka, five from Uttar Pradesh and two each from Maharashtra and Telangana.

Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carriers Flynas and Flyadeal are operating services from Kochi and Kannur respectively. Flynas will operate 20 flights from Kochi, each carrying 430 passengers. Flyadeal will operate 13 flights from Kannur with 350 passengers each. Indian low-cost carrier Akasa Air will operate seven services from Kozhikode between May 14 and 17, carrying 145 pilgrims per flight.

28/04/2026 Hindu

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Air India, IndiGo plan to resume Qatar flights as Gulf airspace situation improves; IndiGo shares face pressure

As the overall flight situation in the Gulf region continues to improve, Air India and IndiGo are also planning to resume flight operations from Qatar to India soon, the Ministry of External Affairs announced on Monday.

With Qatar airspace partially open, Qatar Airways is already operating flights to various destinations in India, according to a statement issued by the MEA.

Additional flights are now operating from the Middle East, with around 105 flights expected on Monday between the UAE and India as airlines continue to operate limited commercial services from Dubai and Abu Dhabi based on operational and safety considerations.

Flights continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to destinations in India. Kuwait airspace is also open, with Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways resuming limited operations to India. Bahrain airspace is open as well, with Gulf Air operating flights to multiple Indian destinations.

Besides, Iraq's airspace is open with limited flight operations that can be used for onward travel to India.

Iran's airspace is partially open for cargo and chartered flights, but Indian nationals are advised to avoid travelling to Iran, and those already there are urged to leave via land routes with embassy support, the MEA said. So far, the Indian embassy in Tehran has facilitated the movement of 2,445 Indian nationals through land border routes.

Israel's airspace is also open, with limited flight operations resuming to regional destinations that can be used for travel to India.

28/04/2026 International Business Times

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ATR bets on Tier-2, Tier-3 markets to drive India’s aviation growth

Regional aircraft manufacturer ATR expects India’s next phase of aviation growth to emerge beyond metro cities, with tier-2 and tier-3 markets offering significant opportunities as regional connectivity expands.

Speaking to businessline, Alexis Vidal, Senior Vice President Commercial, ATR, said that while India has become the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market over the past decade, a large share of inter-city travel outside metro regions continues to be served by rail and road transport.

According to Vidal, nearly 90 per cent of India’s inter-city trips fall within a distance of 740 kilometres, which aligns with the operating range of turboprop aircraft.

However, only about 3 per cent of these journeys are currently undertaken by air.

According to the regional aircraft manufacturer, government-led regional connectivity initiatives have contributed to the expansion of aviation access in smaller markets.

On the upcoming modified UDAN (Regional Connectivity Scheme), the regional aircraft manufacturer noted that investments in additional airports and extended route financing could improve the accessibility and viability of regional air travel across the country.

Under the initial UDAN scheme, more than 600 routes have been operationalised, connecting 93 unserved and underserved airports.

Besides, the Centre plans to increase the number of airports in the country to 230 by 2030.

These developments, Vidal said, create a foundation for regional aviation growth, particularly in smaller cities where direct connectivity remains limited.

As per insights from ATR’s MobilityMonitor, a backcast model analysing journeys across transport modes, India has the potential for more than 400 additional regional air routes, which could add approximately 35 million annual passengers in the regional segment.

27/04/2026 Rohit Vaid/Business Line

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DGCA tightens rules for foreign airlines operating in country

New Delhi: India has tightened rules for foreign airlines operating to and from the country. Now, the DGCA can "revoke or suspend" a foreign airline's authorisation for lapses like not meeting safety standards. In one of his first orders, DGCA chief Vir Vikram Yadav said foreign airlines "shall nominate or appoint a local representative" to deal with the regulator.

While Indian carriers must follow consumer protection rules, the DGCA did not have that remit over foreign ones-this changes now. Foreign airlines must set up an effective passenger grievance redressal mechanism, maintain a complaints database, and submit periodic reports to the DGCA.

Grounds for cancelling or revoking authorisation include ownership and control not vested with the designating country or failure to maintain safety and security standards. Unless urgent, action will follow consultations with the designating govt.

If an airline fails to operate scheduled services to/from an Indian airport for four traffic seasons, its authorisation for that airport will be deemed suspended.

27/04/2026 Saurabh Sinha/Times of India

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Four passengers, 1 crew member injured after engine failure forces evacuation of SWISS Delhi-Zurich flight

Four passengers and one crew member were injured at a runway at Indira GandhiInternational Airport early Sunday. The incident occurred when one of the aircraft’s engines failed and

caught fire during the takeoff roll, prompting the crew to stop the aircraft and initiate an emergency evacuation.

The airline had earlier said that six passengers had been injured but revised the number, Reuters reported on Sunday.

The Airbus A330, operating as flight LX147, had 232 passengers, including four infants, along with crew members on board, according to a TOI report. The aircraft was accelerating on runway 28 at around 1.08 am when the failure occurred. According to flight tracking data, the aircraft had reached a speed of 104 knots before the crew rejected the takeoff.

Passengers and crew were evacuated using emergency slides. Six passengers sustained injuries during the evacuation and were taken to Medanta hospital for treatment. The runway remains closed until the aircraft is removed.

“We are aware of an incident involving flight LX147 in Delhi. The aircraft involved is an Airbus A330 (HB-JHK). SWISS has established a task force.

There were 228 passengers and 4 infants on board. Shortly after takeoff, just after 1 am local time in India, an issue occurred with one of the engines. The crew rejected the takeoff and, following an assessment of the situation, decided as a precaution to evacuate the aircraft,” SWISS said in a statement.

The airline confirmed that the crew members were unharmed. “Six passengers (are) currently receiving medical attention, crew (is) unharmed. All passengers and crew (were) evacuated the aircraft via the emergency slides. Six passengers are currently undergoing medical evaluation. For a small number of individuals who were unable to use the slides, stairs were provided.”

26/04/2026 Economic Times

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Malaysia Airlines unveils Mumbai Indians-themed aircraft, taking spirit of Mumbai global

Malaysia Airlines and Mumbai Indians today unveiled a one-of-a-kind aircraft livery, bringing together the iconic blue and gold of one of cricket's most celebrated franchises to the skies with the blues of Malaysia Airlines.

Now featured on Malaysia Airlines’ A330-300, the specially designed livery transforms the aircraft into a bold visual expression of sport, culture and connection - carrying the spirit of Mumbai beyond the stadium and onto the global stage. The design blends the distinctive identities of both brands, featuring a dynamic pulse radiating from the Mumbai Indians emblem and its iconic Chakra, symbolising motion and momentum. Flowing patterns across the aircraft reflect the team’s growing global fanbase, reinforcing Malaysia Airlines’ role as a global carrier connecting people through shared journeys and experiences.

To mark the launch, Malaysia Airlines and Mumbai Indians have released a tribute digital film capturing the vibrant culture of Mumbai, the passion of its fans and the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality.

Bryan Foong, Chief Executive Officer of Airline Business from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “India remains a key growth market for Malaysia Airlines as we continue to strengthen our presence and connectivity across the region. This collaboration with Mumbai Indians allows us to go beyond traditional aviation partnerships by integrating cultural relevance into our brand experience. It reflects our commitment to building meaningful, long-term connections with customers while reinforcing Malaysia Airlines as a carrier that connects people, places and passions across our global network."

A Mumbai Indians spokesperson added, “Our collaboration with Malaysia Airlines is a powerful expression of how the Mumbai Indians brand continues to travel beyond the game and into culture. Seeing our colours take flight on a global platform is a proud moment, as it connects fans across geographies and brings the spirit of Mumbai to the world. Malaysia Airlines has been a forwardthinking partner of sharing our vision of creating meaningful fan experiences not just in stadiums, but across journeys.”

26/04/2026 Storyboard18

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Iran airspace partially open, more flights coming to India from Gulf

New Delhi: Iran’s airspace is partially open for cargo and chartered flights, but Indian nationals are advised to avoid travelling to the country, and those already there are urged to leave via the land border, with the embassy’s support, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Sunday.

So far, the Indian embassy in Tehran has facilitated the movement of 2,445 Indian nationals out of Iran through land border routes, the statement said. Israel’s airspace is open, and limited flight operations have resumed to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India. In the UAE, airlines continue to operate limited commercial flights to India based on operational and safety considerations, with around 110 flights expected between the UAE and India on Sunday.

Flights continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to destinations in India. With Qatar airspace partially open, Qatar Airways is also operating flights to various destinations in India. The Kuwait airspace is open. Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways have resumed limited flight operations from Kuwait to India. Bahrain airspace is also open, and Gulf Air is operating flights from Bahrain to various destinations in India. Besides, Iraq’s airspace is open with limited flight operations to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India. Indian missions remain actively engaged with the Indian community, including the various associations, organisations, professional groups, Indian companies and other stakeholders in the region.

26/04/2026 IANS/Telangana Today

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Sri Lanka seeks investors for loss-making Mattala airport in Hambantota

Sri Lanka has called for Expressions of Interest to run its loss-making international airport in Mattala, in the southern Hambantota district, with a Cabinet-appointed committee tasked with negotiating the deal with prospective domestic and foreign investors.  

The Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation, on behalf of Airport and Aviation Services, “invites proposals from prospective investors i.e. Companies, Corporations, Firms, and Joint Ventures” for investments to “utilise resources” of the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), according to an official statement. The EOI, which includes airside, aerodrome and landside operations, is open to both domestic and international entities, the statement said.

India has in the past expressed interest to operate the airport in Mattala, which has made headlines as the ‘world’s emptiest airport’, including through a joint venture with a Russian company. However, the proposals did not take off. 

26/04/2026 Meera Srinivasan/Hindu

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ICE Put Indian Man on Wrong Alaska Airlines Flight from Seattle to Sitka Instead of New York

Seattle: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers placed a detained Indian man on the wrong Alaska Airlines (AS) flight at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), sending him to Sitka (SIT) instead of New York City (JFK) for his voluntary departure to India.

The previously unreported May 31, 2025, incident prompted Alaska Airlines (AS) to review its safety protocols and raise the matter with the Department of Homeland Security.

Rakesh Rakesh, 25, had spent months at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma before an immigration judge granted his request for voluntary departure on May 21. Despite flight attendants alerting ICE officers that they were boarding the wrong aircraft, the agents directed the crew to continue boarding him, leading to a chain of events that added 16 extra days to his detention, the Seattle Times reported.

The incident unfolded when ICE officers bypassed the standard terminal gate process and brought Rakesh up a stairway from the airfield directly onto the jet bridge.

Federal agents are eligible for badges granting airfield access when escorting individuals in their custody, according to Port of Seattle spokesperson Perry Cooper. However, Alaska Airlines (AS) said the officers failed to follow established check-in procedures with airline gate agents before stepping onto the plane.

Had the officers checked in at the gate, they would have learned that the New York City (JFK) flight was parked adjacent to the Sitka (SIT) flight they were about to board.

Alaska Airlines spokesperson Alexa Rudin confirmed that flight attendants informed the officers they had the wrong plane, but the agents overrode the crew and directed them to board Rakesh anyway.

After the flight departed, attendants alerted the captain, a veteran Alaska Airlines (AS) pilot. When the captain informed Rakesh of the situation, the 25-year-old grew afraid, uncertain whether his voluntary departure status still stood.

The captain took personal responsibility for the stranded passenger. After the plane landed in Sitka (SIT) around 10:30 p.m., the pilot brought Rakesh to his own hotel and booked an adjacent room.

He then arranged a return flight to Seattle (SEA) the following morning and helped Rakesh book connecting flights to New York City (JFK) and onward to India. Alaska Airlines covered the hotel, meals, and all rebooking costs.

Rather than allowing Rakesh to continue his journey home, ICE agents met him when he arrived back at Seattle (SEA) and returned him to the Tacoma detention center. Rakesh said he pleaded with officers to let him leave the country, but his pleas were ignored. He went on a hunger strike for several after being redetained.

25/04/2026 Kevin Derby/AviationA2Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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India reissues travel advisory as India–Iran flight services resume in limited numbers

Embassy of India in Tehran issued a fresh advisory on Thursday, urging its citizens “not to travel to Iran”, as scant flight operations between the two countries begin to resume amid tensions. In a statement, the Embassy of India in Tehran said, “In view of reports of commencement of some flights between India and Iran, and in continuation of earlier advisories, Indian citizens are strongly advised not to travel to Iran, whether by air or land.”

The advisory comes amid ongoing uncertainty in the region, with authorities warning that aviation operations remain disrupted within the country. To assist citizens, the embassy shared emergency contact numbers and urged Indians to remain in close contact for guidance and support as the situation evolves.

 Iran reopened some of its key airports recently and gradually resumed flight operations after weeks of disruptions caused by conflicts involving the United States and Israel.

Major airports, including Imam Khomeini International Airport and Mehrabad Airport, have recently restarted domestic services, and limited international connectivity has also been restored.

24/04/2026 First Post

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India extends airspace closure for Pakistan aircraft till May 24

New Delhi: India has extended the ban on Pakistan planes from using its airspace till May 24.

With the latest extension, the closure of the Indian airspace for Pakistan aircraft will now be in place for more than a year -- a move that first came days after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025.

Since April last year, both countries have been extending the closure of their airspaces for each other's planes. On Tuesday, Pakistan extended the airspace closure till May 24.

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on Wednesday said the Indian airspace will not be available for Pakistan-registered aircraft and aircraft operated/ owned or leased by Pakistan airlines/ operators, including military flights.

Following the terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, that killed 26 people, India and Pakistan closed their respective airspaces for each other's planes.

23/04/2026 PTI/Economic Times

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From Partner to Lifeline: How Singapore Airlines Is Taking Over Air India's Operations

Singapore Airlines (SIA) is deepening its operational involvement in Air India as Tata Group's flag carrier grapples with record losses, safety lapses and a leadership vacuum, according to a Bloomberg report.

The Singaporean carrier has placed its executives in key roles across Air India's flight operations, engineering and maintenance, areas where SIA has long been considered a global benchmark. Singapore Airlines had first stepped up its involvement in engineering last year before expanding its presence across other functions. Meanwhile, Tata Group, which owns 74.9% of Air India, is focusing on commercial, human resources, finance and IT functions.

The shift marks a significant escalation in SIA's engagement, moving it from a strategic minority partner to an active, hands-on presence, a change made more urgent following the deadly Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash last year.

Air India lost more than ₹22,000 crore — roughly $2.4 billion — in the fiscal year ending March 2026, far worse than the $1.6 billion the airline had privately estimated just months earlier, Bloomberg reported. The scale of the damage forced Air India to approach both Tata Group and Singapore Airlines for fresh capital.

For SIA, the financial pain is direct. The carrier entered Air India as a minority shareholder after merging its Indian affiliate Vistara with the airline in 2024, and has since seen its own earnings dragged down. SIA disclosed losses from associated companies — largely attributable to Air India — of $139 million in the December quarter. Despite this, it said it remains "firmly committed" to supporting Air India's transformation.

23/04/2026 Outlook

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Mumbai Indians take flight as Malaysia Airlines unveils special-themed aircraft

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia and the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, Mumbai Indians (MI) have announced a one-of-a-kind aircraft livery that combines the classic blue and gold of one of cricket’s most storied franchises with Malaysia Airlines’ blues.

The newly designed livery, now shown on Malaysia Airlines’ A330-300, transforms the aircraft into a strong visual representation of sport, culture, and connectivity, extending Mumbai’s spirit beyond the stadium and onto the world stage. The design combines both businesses’ respective identities, with a dynamic pulse emanating from the Mumbai Indians’ logo and its famous chakra, which represents motion and speed. Flowing patterns on the aircraft depict the team’s increasing worldwide fan base, supporting Malaysia Airlines’ position as a global airline that connects people through shared adventures and experiences.

To commemorate the inauguration, Malaysia Airlines and MI have created a tribute digital film that captures the colourful culture of Mumbai, the enthusiasm of its supporters, and the warmth of Malaysian hospitality.

Bryan Foong, Chief Executive Officer of Airline Business from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “India remains a key growth market for Malaysia Airlines as we continue to strengthen our presence and connectivity across the region. This collaboration with Mumbai Indians allows us to go beyond traditional aviation partnerships by integrating cultural relevance into our brand experience. It reflects our commitment to building meaningful, long-term connections with customers while reinforcing Malaysia Airlines as a carrier that connects people, places and passions across our global network.”

23/04/2026 Gauresh Mahadik/Sports Mint

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Kuwait, India discuss strengthening civil aviation cooperation

Kuwait: Director General of Civil Aviation, Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah, held talks on Thursday with the Ambassador of India to Kuwait, Paramita Tripathi, on ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in the civil aviation sector.

In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation said the meeting reviewed areas of joint cooperation and explored avenues to further develop relations in a manner that supports air transport operations and facilitates the exchange of expertise in this vital field.

The statement added that both sides also discussed prospects for strengthening cooperation to meet shared aspirations and contribute to the continued development and advancement of the civil aviation sector between the two countries. 

23/04/2026 KUNA/Kuwait Times

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India-China direct flight connectivity grows amid thawing yet ‘fragile’ ties

New Delhi: As India-China relations continue to improve, Air China has restarted direct flights on the Beijing-New Delhi route after a gap of almost six years. The service will operate on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday every week using Airbus A330-200/300 aircraft.

Direct flights between the two countries were halted in 2020 during COVID-19 and remained suspended amid breakdown in ties following the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides.

As of now, India-China connectivity involves around 20 direct flights a week compared to over 40 weekly flights before 2020. These include, apart from Air China’s three weekly flights now, IndiGo’s daily Kolkata-Shanghai and Delhi-Guangzhou services, started in the last six months, and China Eastern Airlines’ six weekly Kunming-Kolkata flights that were resumed this week.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had visited China in July 2025, for the first time in five years, to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tianjin, and the subject of resumption of flights, along with border management and trade, was discussed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi then visited Tianjin in August 2025 for the SCO Summit—his first visit to China in over seven years—and met President Xi Jinping, signalling a massive improvement in India-China ties.

23/04/2026 Esha Mishra/Print

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France lifts airport transit visa requirements for Indian nationals

During his recent visit to India in February 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron had announced that measures would be taken to ease Indian nationals’ travel via France.

Subsequent to President Macron’s statement, a decree amending that of 10 May 2010 regarding the documents and visas required for the entry of foreigners into French territory was adopted, and published in the Official Gazette (Journal Officiel) on 9 April 2026.

Consequently, with effect from 10 April 2026, Indian nationals possessing an ordinary passport are no longer required to hold an airport transit visa when passing through the international zone of airports located on French territory. This measure applies to passengers remaining in the international zone during a layover at a French airport en route to a third country.

This change has been reflected in the procedures on the France-Visas platform: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/inde

23/04/2026 France in India

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Beijing-Delhi direct flights resume as India, China reset ties, aim at expanding air connectivity

India and China are all set to expand air connectivity with resumption of direct flights between Delhi and Beijing from Tuesday, marking the second route to India to be restored this month. 

The service will operate three times a week — on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays — using an Airbus A330 aircraft. Economy class fares are expected to start from 3,570 yuan (approximately USD 523), with departure scheduled at 3:15 pm from Beijing and arrival in Delhi at 8:20 pm local time.

Flight connections between India and China are slowly returning to normal. China Eastern Airlines restarted its direct Kunming–Kolkata flights on April 18, operating six return flights a week using Boeing 737 aircraft. The airline said this will make travel easier and improve people-to-people ties. Earlier, it had also resumed the Shanghai–Delhi route in November 2025.

On the Indian side, IndiGo has expanded its services to China. It started a daily non-stop flight between Kolkata and Shanghai on March 30, along with earlier resumed flights to Guangzhou and new routes from Delhi. The airline is using A320neo aircraft for these services.

22/04/2026 Jasleen Kaur Gulati/PTC News

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Delta TechOps advances global engine leadership, expands into India supporting IndiGo’s CFM56-5B engines

Delta TechOps is extending its position as a global leader in engine maintenance through an eight-year exclusive CFM56‑5B maintenance contract with IndiGo, India’s preferred airline. The partnership expands TechOps’ industry leading engine expertise into the world’s third-largest aviation market, marking the first major collaboration between the two companies and a new presence for TechOps in India. 

Under the arrangement, TechOps is providing support for 20 engines powering IndiGo’s A320ceo fleet, which joins a growing number of airlines that choose TechOps’ deep CFM56 expertise, global Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) scale and operational capabilities to support high‑utilization fleets.  

“India represents one of the most dynamic, fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, and this partnership positions Delta TechOps at the center of that growth. High-utilization fleets require more than technical expertise; these fleets demand reliability, scale and consistent execution,” said Marc Meredith, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Operator for Delta TechOps. “Delta TechOps has built these capabilities over decades, and that’s why IndiGo selected us for this exclusive CFM56 partnership as we expand our global MRO footprint.”  

  IndiGo operates one of the world’s largest A320 fleets and continues to invest significantly in narrowbody growth, with additional A320neo and A321neo aircraft on order well into the next decade.  

22/04/2026 Delta

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Thales and Air India sign 10-year FlytCARE agreement for IFE maintenance

 Thales today announced that Air India, India’s leading global airline, has signed a 10-year agreement with Thales for its FlytCARE services package. This agreement provides a full turn-key maintenance approach, covering line maintenance, spares, repairs and logistics management support for Thales’ inflight entertainment (IFE) systems on 57 Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

Under the FlytCARE agreement, repair and maintenance will be delivered from Thales locations at Delhi and Mumbai airports in India, to expedite services and support Air India's customer-centric modernization journey.

This agreement covers Air India’s 12 new widebody aircraft equipped with Thales’ AVANT UP inflight entertainment system. AVANT UP features a vast catalogue of content showcased on stunning 4K HDR touchscreens, along with 60W USB-C and USB-A fast charging for customer devices, and the ability to simultaneously pair two Bluetooth connections. Air India is the first carrier in the Asia Pacific region to fly with Thales’ AVANT Up solution.

Thales is honored to build on the enduring relationship with Air India to support the airline’s transformation in constantly improving the passenger entertainment experience.

Jeremy Yew, Senior Vice President – Engineering & Maintenance, Air India “Ensuring the highest levels of reliability and uptime for our inflight entertainment systems is critical to delivering a world‑class experience for our guests. Our partnership with Thales under the FlytCARE programme strengthens Air India’s engineering ecosystem with faster turnaround, deeper technical support, and enhanced component availability. This collaboration directly supports our fleet modernization and our commitment to engineering excellence.”

21/04/2026 Thales

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Diaspora: Over 11 Lakh Passengers Travel Back To India During West Asia Conflict:

 As the two-week ceasefire window in West Asia inches closer to the end on April 22, India has evacuated over 11 lakh passengers from the region through continuous flight ops from various countries in the region, to alternate routes.

The details were shared by Aseem Mahajan, Joint Secretary (Gulf) in the Ministry of External Affairs, during an inter-ministerial press briefing here in the national capital on Monday.

Mahajan said that flights continue to operate from the region to India from countries where airspace is open. “Since February 28th, around 11,30,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India. Airlines continue to operate limited commercial flights based on operational and safety considerations between the UAE and India. Around 110 flights are expected to operate from the UAE to India today.”

He added that flights are operating from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to different destinations in India. With the Qatar airspace partially open. Today, Qatar Airways is expected to operate around 10 to 11 flights to various destinations in India.

20/04/2026 ANI/News India

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Kazakhstan’s airlines ready to expand flights to India - Civil Aviation Committee Chair Tompiyeva

As part of the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2026 held in Marrakesh, Morocco, Chairperson of the Civil Aviation Committee of the Kazakh Ministry of Transport, Saltanat Tompiyeva, has met with Permanent Representative of India to ICAO Angshumali Rastogi, Qazinform News Agency reports.

Kazakhstan’s Permanent Representative to ICAO Timur Tlegenov also participated in the meeting.

The sides discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in the field of civil aviation,with particular emphasis on expanding air traffic between Kazakhstan and India.

Saltanat Tompiyeva noted that the existing regulatory-legal framework between the two countries provides a solid foundation for further development of air traffic.

Currently, Kazakhstan’s Air Astana operates 13 weekly flights between Almaty and Delhi, and three weekly flights between Almaty and Mumbai.

Tompiyeva also said that Kazakhstan’s airlines also intend to launch new flights to India and increase the number of flights along the existing routes.

20/04/2026 Kazinform International News Agency

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SriLankan Airlines adds Ahmedabad as its 10th destination in India

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

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

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

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

21/04/2026 Aviation World

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China Eastern Airlines resumes direct flights between Kolkata and Kunming

China Eastern Airlines has restarted direct flights connecting Kolkata and Kunming. The move strengthens air travel between India and China. The flights will operate six times week. This route is important for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Passengers can connect to many Chinese cities. More routes are planned for India.

Strengthening aviation links between India and China, China Eastern Airlines resumed its direct flights between Kolkata and Kunming on 19 April 2026. Following the successful relaunch of its Delhi–Shanghai service last year, this strategic resumption delivers on the airline’s commitment to strengthen the air connectivity between the two nations.

The flights on this new route will operate six times weekly, featuring both Business and Economy Class cabins.

The inaugural event was formally marked with a lamp lighting ceremony at Kolkata Airport. Liu Yonghong, General Manager – India, China

Eastern Airlines, and JB Singh, Director, InterGlobe Air Transport, were joined by Xu Wei, Consul-General, and Qin Yong, Deputy ConsulGeneral, from the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kolkata, alongside top officials from the Airports Authority of India and Immigration, to commemorate the launch of the landmark route.

21/04/2026 Economic Times

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Pakistan Further Extends Airspace Ban On Indian Airlines Till May 24

Pakistan on Tuesday further extended the ban on Indian aircraft from using its airspace for another month. Pakistan has kept its airspace shut to Indian flights since April 24, 2025, a move that reportedly caused a loss of billions of rupees to the Indian airlines.

The Pakistan Airports Authority said in the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that "all Indian-registered, leased, commercial and military aircraft will remain barred from Pakistani airspace until 5 am on May 24, 2026." The notice was issued days before the previous one was set to expire on April 24.

Pakistan closed its airspace for Indian airlines following tension in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, for which New Delhi blamed Islamabad. Pakistan, however, rejected the allegations and also called for a transparent inquiry.

India, in response, also closed its airspace to Pakistani airlines. Pakistan has imposed such restrictions on India for the first time. 

21/04/2026 PTI/NDTV Profit

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EU-India free trade agreement can further accelerate cooperation in aviation sector: German Consulate General

Bengaluru: Annett Baessler, deputy consul general of the German Consulate General in Bengaluru, highlighted the potential of the proposed EU–India Free Trade Agreement to significantly boost collaboration in the aviation sector.

Speaking at the 9th International Conference on the Future of Aviation and Aerospace 2026, hosted by IIM Bangalore in partnership with TBS Education, France, she emphasized opportunities in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), workforce development, and deeper sectoral integration, which could create a strong new momentum between India and Europe.

She noted that Europe's highly integrated aviation market gives German and European companies a competitive edge globally. India, currently the fifth-largest aviation market, is expected to become the third-largest within a decade and is emerging as a major manufacturing and design hub. European firms are actively supporting this growth, with Airbus alone holding around 1,250 aircraft orders from Indian clients. Additionally, India's MRO sector is projected to reach $9.5 billion in the coming decade.

Prof S Raghunath, conference chair at IIMB, said, "Our opportunity lies in leading in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), as well as lifecycle intelligence. This is an area where we are more than capable. For decades, we have been the IT backbone of the world. Given that strength, it is not difficult for us to recognise a simple reality: While aircraft sales generate revenue, far greater value lies in keeping those aircraft operational. We already have the technology, the engineering talent, and the skilled workforce needed to capitalise on it."

20/04/2026 Times of India

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H-1B fears rise as pilot training debate intensifies

A viral social media post has ignited concern across the Indian American community, focusing on private-plane pilots, amplifying anxieties around immigration policy, and thrusting the U.S. aviation training sector into an unexpected spotlight.

The post, widely circulated on X, drew backlash for remarks that many users described as inflammatory and misleading. Critics said the rhetoric unfairly targeted Indian professionals and students, escalating tensions at a time when immigration debates are already deeply polarized.

Much of the concern centers on the H-1B visa program, a critical pathway for highly skilled workers, many of whom come from India. The technology and healthcare sectors depend heavily on these professionals, but observers claim the current climate of uncertainty is spreading into adjacent industries, including aviation.

In particular, the post’s references to private pilot courses have sparked alarm among international students and flight schools alike. The United States has long been a global hub for aviation training, attracting thousands of students each year due to advanced infrastructure, favorable weather conditions, and globally recognized certifications. Indian students represent a significant share of that pipeline.

Industry experts warn that heightened scrutiny or negative sentiment could disrupt this ecosystem. Flight training academies rely on international enrollment to sustain operations, while airlines worldwide depend on a steady supply of trained pilots to address ongoing shortages.  Barriers, whether policy-driven or perception-based, could ripple across the broader aviation workforce.

19/04/2026 Jayujyoti Mullick/American Bazar

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

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

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

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

19/04/2026 Vihaan Mehta/Whalesbook

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2 Americans detained at Srinagar airport after satellite phone found in luggage

Two US nationals were detained at Srinagar airport on Sunday after security officials found a satellite phone, a prohibited item, in their luggage during a routine check.

The individuals were questioned by airport security and later handed over to police for further investigation.

One of the detained individuals was identified as Jeffrey Scott from Montana. Officials said the satellite phone, manufactured by Garmin, was recovered from his luggage.

The use of satellite phones is prohibited in India without prior government approval. Devices such as Thuraya and Iridium phones fall under strict regulation, and unauthorised possession can lead to detention, arrest and seizure under the Indian Telegraph Act and other security rules.

According to official guidelines, travellers must obtain written permission from the Department of Telecommunications before carrying or using satellite communication devices in the country.

India enforces stringent telecom restrictions due to security concerns, and both foreign nationals and Indian citizens have faced action in the past for carrying satellite communicators.

Last May, a US-based ophthalmologist was stopped at Puducherry airport after an Iridium satellite phone was found in her possession. She was prevented from boarding a flight to Hyderabad, and a police investigation was initiated.

Authorities have also reported previous detentions involving foreign nationals, including a Chinese citizen and a British executive, for carrying unauthorised satellite devices at airports and hotels across the country.

19/04/2026 Mir Fareed/India Today

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Turkish Airlines India menu update for onboard dining

Turkish Airlines has updated its Economy Class catering on routes to and from India, introducing menus developed with chefs specialising in regional cuisine. The changes have been in effect since 1 February 2026 on flights connecting Istanbul with Mumbai and New Delhi.

The revised menus are designed to reflect local taste preferences while maintaining consistency across the airline’s onboard service.

Outbound flights from India now include breakfast options such as omelette with tandoori paneer, chana masala with poori and banana pancakes. These are served alongside items such as yoghurt with honey, cheeses, olives, fresh vegetables and a selection of breads.

Inbound flights offer meal options including butter chicken with basmati rice, dal makhani with spiced vegetables and pasta dishes, accompanied by salads, desserts and bread selections.

Alongside the menu update, the airline has expanded its Stopover in Istanbul programme, allowing eligible passengers to stay in the city before continuing their journey. Economy passengers can receive a one-night stay in a four-star hotel, while Business Class passengers can stay for two nights in a five-star hotel.

19/04/2026 Priyal Dutta/Safari India

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Singapore Airlines CEO to meet senior Tata Group executives, Air India losses top agenda

Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong will be meeting senior Tata Group executives on Thursday, and both sides are expected to have detailed discussions on loss-ma ines CEO to meet senior Tata Group executives, Air India losses top agenda   Read More: https://www.moneycontrol king Air India.

Goh Choon Phong arrived at the Bombay House, the headquarters of the Tata Group, on Thursday morning.

Tata Group acquired Air India from the Indian government in January 2022, and later Singapore Airlines purchased a 25.1 per cent stake in the airline.

A source said he would be meeting senior Tata Group executives.

Details about his planned meetings with the Tata Group executives could not be immediately ascertained.

According to reports, the Singapore Airlines CEO will be meeting Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran.

The meeting assumes significance against the backdrop of Air India facing multiple headwinds, including spiralling operating costs due to the airspace curbs in the wake of the West Asia conflict and the closure of Pakistan airspace for nearly a year now. These restrictions have forced the airline, which is in the midst of an ambitious transformation plan, to take longer routes for long-haul international flights, resulting in increased fuel burn and higher expenses.

16/04/2026 PTI/Moneycontrol

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China Eastern Airlines resumes direct flights from Kunming to Kolkata in India

Direct flights linking the Indian city of Kolkata and Southwest China's Kunming in Yunnan province will resume operations on April 18 by China Eastern Airlines, a new development following the restoration of the Shanghai-Delhi route in November 2025, according to the Shanghai-based carrier.

The Kunming-Kolkata direct flights will be operational from Kunming every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Kunming, with the return flights scheduled to depart from Kolkata every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

As the capital city of India's West Bengal state, Kolkata is not only the commercial and financial hub of eastern and northeastern India but also the country's third-largest city.

Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, is striving to strengthen its role as a hub for opening up in Southwest China through continuously improved transportation networks for aviation and rail.

13/04/2026 Wang Ying/China Daily

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

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

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

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

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

There was one brief moment of concern during her stay.

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

14/04/2026 India Today

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Family Of 8 Spends Rs 49 Lakh On Flight, KLM Denies Boarding At Bengaluru Airport

For J S Sathishkumar, chairman of a medical institution based in Salem, Tamil Nadu, a long-planned international family trip ended not at the destination they had dreamed of, but in a courtroom. What was meant to be a celebratory journey from India to Peru has now spiralled into a legal battle involving one of the world's major airlines, raising questions about passenger rights, documentation checks and the responsibilities of airline staff during international travel.

Court Orders FIR Against KLM Royal Dutch Airlines' Top Executives

According to a report by The New Indian Express, a court in Karnataka has directed the police to register an FIR against senior executives of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (the flag carrier of the Netherlands), including its chief executive officer (CEO) and chief operating officer (COO).

The directive was issued by a civil judge and judicial magistrate in Devanahalli, under whose jurisdiction Kempegowda International Airport falls.

The order follows a complaint filed by J S Sathishkumar, after his family was denied boarding at Bengaluru airport at the last minute. The reason? Confusion around visa.

The complaint centres on an incident that occurred on June 19, 2024, when Sathishkumar and seven members of his extended family were scheduled to fly from Bengaluru to Peru on KLM. The family had booked eight non-refundable business-class tickets, reportedly costing around Rs 49 lakh, with a return journey planned for July 3, 2024.

13/04/2026 Jigyasa Kakwani/NDTV Travel

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Indian national arrested with cannabis at TIA

Kathmandu: An Indian national has been arrested at Tribhuvan International Airport with approximately two kilograms of cannabis, authorities said.

The suspect, who arrived in Kathmandu today on a SriLankan Airlines flight from Colombo, Sri Lanka, was apprehended from the airport’s customs area by the Armed Police Force Nepal.

According to APF spokesperson Bishnu Prasad Bhattarai, the seized narcotics and the individual have been handed over to Nepal Police for further investigation.

13/04/2026 Republica

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

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

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

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

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

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

13/04/2026 Arjun Brij/Swarajya

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Civil Aviation Ministry raises issue of restricted access for Indian carriers at Dubai airports

New Delhi: The Civil Aviation Ministry has, through the Consulate General in Dubai, approached authorities over the highly restricted access for Indian carriers at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, a senior official said.

While restrictions on all foreign flights have been in place since February 28 and extended periodically, the latest curbs from April 20 to May 31 are expected to severely impact Indian airlines, sources said. Each airline is currently permitted only one round flight per day to either of the two airports.

A senior civil aviation official said the issue has been taken up with Dubai authorities through the Indian Embassy and efforts have been ongoing for the past ten days.

Air India Express, IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet operate multiple daily flights to Dubai under normal circumstances.

An airline executive said operations were halted after the conflict that began on February 28, with only a few special flights initially allowed. Subsequently, airlines were permitted one slot per day, extended periodically. The latest extension continues this restriction until May 31.

12/04/2026 New Indian Express

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Air India Express to operate flights between Mangaluru and Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah on April 13

Air India Express will operate its flights between Mangaluru and Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah on Monday (April 13).

It will operate its Mangaluru–Dubai–Mangaluru flights IX 6040/6041, Mangaluru–Abu Dhabi–Mangaluru flights IX 6083/6086, and Mangaluru–Jeddah–Mangaluru flights IX 845/847, sources at the Mangaluru International Airport said.

Flights services between Mangaluru and West Asian cities were disrupted since the war between Iran and US-Israel broke out on February 28.

12/04/2026 The Hindu

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Bangladesh-India discuss strengthening cooperation in civil aviation sector

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Prannoy Verma paid a courtesy call on the Honorable Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Afroza Khanam (Rita). Honorable Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat was also present in the meeting.

The meeting discussed various aspects of strengthening bilateral cooperation in the civil aviation sector between the two countries, improving air connectivity, increasing air cargo capacity, and developing and enhancing aviation infrastructure.

High Commissioner Prannoy Verma briefed the Minister and State Minister about the ongoing development activities in India’s civil aviation sector. He mentioned that as a result of these initiatives, India has now become one of the fastest growing civil aviation markets in the world.

12/04/2026 Business in Bangladesh

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'Fear Of Retribution': Pilots Say Airlines Are Forcing Them To Fly In Conflict Zones

Pilots are raising safety concerns after growing fear that they could be in breach of their contracts if they refuse assignments that require them to fly over conflict zones, as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East. Safety concerns have been elevated by pilots in countries from Lebanon to India.

While many European airlines have been banned from operating in Middle Eastern airspace, there are some carriers that continue to operate in the region without as many restrictions, with one of these being the Indian flag carrier, Air India. Following these developments, a global aviation union group has raised concerns that pilots are afraid to resume assignments, as they could lose pay or be fired, as reported by Reuters.

Pilots are raising safety concerns after growing fear that they could be in breach of their contracts if they refuse assignments that require them to fly over conflict zones, as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East. Safety concerns have been elevated by pilots in countries from Lebanon to India.

While many European airlines have been banned from operating in Middle Eastern airspace, there are some carriers that continue to operate in the region without as many restrictions, with one of these being the Indian flag carrier, Air India. Following these developments, a global aviation union group has raised concerns that pilots are afraid to resume assignments, as they could lose pay or be fired, as reported by Reuters.

Pilots in Israel's neighboring country of Lebanon have voiced their concerns that they may face sanctions from their employer if they refuse to fly. This comes at a time when there are continuing to be unpredictable conditions, and airspaces can abruptly close without notice due to incoming missile or drone strikes.

The underlying fear of retribution remains strong, as reported by Hay, a Delta Air Lines Captain, who noted that they are worried they could lose their job and won't be paid for the time spent on a trip they didn't take. While the names of the airlines involved were not disclosed, the report evidently shows that there is a lack of confidence that a positive safety culture allows pilots to speak up.

Members of the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Association (IFALPA) include several airlines based in the conflict-stricken region, including Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, and Egypt. This does not include the major Gulf carriers that have been heavily affected by the Iran crisis, such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, which remain unionized.

11/04/2026 Aaron Bailey/Simple Flying

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One-Flight Rule To Dubai Sparks Revenue Fears For IA

HYDERABAD: Dubai has reportedly imposed restrictions, allowing only one foreign flight daily to its airports until May 31, owing to the West Asian crisis. From India alone, approximately 75 to 85 flights operate daily to Dubai, making it one of the busiest international routes. Major carriers including Emirates, Flydubai, IndiGo, and Air India Express connect multiple Indian cities to Dubai airports, with top routes from Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and cities in Kerala. From Hyderabad to Dubai, Emirates earlier operated three flights daily, Air India and IndiGo one each — this was the schedule before the crisis. The restrictions on foreign airlines have sparked fears of revenue losses among Indian carriers, which had planned more flights than airlines from any other country, letters show.

The war that began on February 28 forced the aviation industry to set new norms. “Such decisions at this point of time, when ATF is at an all-time high, will push operators into greater losses. There are multiple areas involved in airline operations, and restrictions like these will affect the industry,” explained Fawzan Fareed, regional manager (Operations India), Sri Lankan Airlines.

11/04/2026 Sanjay Samuel Paul/Deccan Chronicle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10/04/2026 Nitin Waghela/Republic World

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

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

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

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

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

06/04/2026 Business World

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10/04/2026 Moneycontrol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10/04/2026 Reuters/Business Standard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

31/03/2026 The News Mill

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

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

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

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

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

09/04/2026 Mathrubhumi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

09/04/2026 Elizabeta Ranxburgaj/Mirror

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

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

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

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

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

09/04/2026 NDTV Travel

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