Category Archives: Aviation

Highlighting policy measures by the Civil Aviation Ministry supporting future success, Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, adds, “While we can truly celebrate these achievements, we must not take for granted the continued success of India’s aviation future. There is more work to be done. In particular, I would highlight three areas: costs, airspace and sustainability.”

IndiGo announces the commencement of daily direct flight connecting Mumbai to its 41st international destination, Fujairah. The only emirate situated along the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, Fujairah is renowned for its pristine beaches, majestic mountain landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This expansion is part of IndiGo’s strategic global growth plan and further strengthens its presence in the Middle East. This marks IndiGo’s fifth destination with direct connectivity in the UAE after Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. The newly launched direct flight from Fujairah to Mumbai and followed by Kannur, not only caters to the growing demand for travel from both business and leisure travellers but also comes at a favourable time, as Fujairah strengthens its position on the global adventure tourism map. In a recent development, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah are planning to launch UAE’s first cross-emirate adventure trial. This opens up new experiences for Indian travellers seeking immersive outdoor getaways. Meanwhile, the strategically planned flight timings carefully coordinated with bus arrival and departure timings are designed to ensure a seamless, hassle-free travel experience for those exploring the UAE, from the cultural charm of Sharjah to the iconic skyline of Dubai and the natural beauty of Fujairah. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, said: “We are pleased to commence daily direct operations between Mumbai as well as Kannur to Fujairah, UAE’s hidden gem known for its natural beauty and growing economic significance. IndiGo already flies to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and now also to Fujairah in the UAE. As our 41st international destination and fifth in the UAE, Fujairah offers immense potential for trade, tourism, & business. With these …

FLY91 introduced UPI payments for inflight purchases, including hot meals and beverages, which can be pre-booked right until the time of boarding, becoming the first regional airline in India and very few in the world to offer this convenience. In most airlines, meals must be booked while purchasing the ticket or paid for in cash. In contrast, FLY91 allows passengers to pre-book their meal right up until they board the flight. Passengers can pre-book or purchase their meals at multiple touchpoints on the day of travel. They can scan a QR code placed at check-in counters, boarding gates or in the seat-back pocket once inside the aircraft. Payments can be made seamlessly via UPI before door closure at departure. This move offers flexibility in payment options. The introduction of UPI payments is just one example of how FLY91 is leveraging innovation and technology for better efficiency and smoother customer experience. Manoj Chacko, MD and CEO, FLY91, said, “As a regional carrier, our focus has always been on enhancing the overall travel experience through practical innovation using an easy-to-use digital framework. Introducing UPI based digital payments on board is a step towards offering our passengers greater convenience, flexibility and warm meals too. FLY91’s digital-first initiative reflects our commitment to a seamless and cashless journey, while continuing to deliver quality service—even on short-haul regional routes.”  

IndiGo has launched new direct flight services linking Abu Dhabi with two of India’s vibrant cultural cities—Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar. This exciting addition aims to improve international connectivity, offering Indian travellers more options for affordable and convenient global travel. Starting from 12 June, flights between Bhubaneswar and Abu Dhabi will operate three times a week, while the Visakhapatnam-Abu Dhabi route will run four times a week, beginning 13 June.

Hahnair launches a new brand to encompass its new suite of retailing solutions based on NDC (New Distribution Capability). Under the umbrella Distriply by Hahnair, the company will introduce a range of products that will enable airlines and travel agencies to tap into new distribution channels, perfectly complementing the existing Hahnair GDS-based solutions.

The government has decided to lift the Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) for several airports across north and north-western India that had been temporarily closed for civilian flights till May 15. Airport Authority of India revoked the suspension, which had led to numerous flight cancellations. The decision was taken post India-Pakistan ceasefire.

Following government directives, the recently closed airports are now available for airlines operations. IndiGo has reopened its flight bookings and resumed operations starting 12 May, 2025 progressively on select routes, beginning with Delhi – Chandigarh, Delhi – Jammu – Delhi and Delhi – Amritsar – Delhi.  Over a course of the next few days more flights will resume gradually across the network. Indigo team is working diligently to ensure smooth, secure and seamless travel experience, supported by enhanced protocols and timely communication.

Saudia received multiple accolades in the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Awards and the Onboard Hospitality Awards, presented on the sidelines of the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo 2025 held in Hamburg, Germany. Saudia’s new ELIE SAAB premium amenity kit collection has earned Gold Awards from the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Awards for Business Class: The Middle East, First Class: Unisex Kit Middle East, and Business Class: Amenity Kit Program for the Rest of the World. This collaboration with lifestyle brand ELIE SAAB marks their debut in aviation luxury, bringing celebrated elegance exclusively to Saudia’s first and business class guests. The kits captivated judges and guests alike with their sophisticated design and luxurious contents. Moreover, Saudia’s exquisite Saudi Coffee Cup initiative was recognised with a Gold Award for First Class Glassware. This initiative features handcrafted cups representing Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions. It reflects Saudia’s dedication to infusing cultural elements into its service offerings while maintaining world-class standards. Further reinforcing its status as a leader in guest comfort and innovation, Saudia was also awarded the prestigious TravelPlus Passenger Amenities Five Star Rating 2025, an honour shared by only five airlines globally this year. The Onboard Hospitality Awards also acknowledged Saudia’s innovative approach by awarding a highly commended recognition in the Best Service Equipment: Crew category for the airline’s new cabin crew uniforms. This award reflects style as well as functionality designed to enhance service delivery onboard. Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer, Saudia, said, “These awards are more than just trophies; they represent our relentless pursuit of excellence across all aspects of our guest experience at Saudia. From our pioneering collaboration with ELIE SAAB to the culturally rich Saudi Coffee Cup initiative …

The national airline of the Maldives, Maldivian (Q2), announced the launch of a new direct flight service between Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HAQ) and Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), India. This new route is set to commence on 15 May, marking an important milestone in the airline’s regional expansion strategy. This new service will provide an essential air bridge between the northern Maldives and India’s Silicon Valley.

IndiGo is further expanding its long-haul capabilities by signing another firm agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways for the damp lease of two additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. These aircraft, the fifth and sixth in this partnership, are expected to start operations by early 2026, serving long-haul routes out of India.