Category Archives: Aviation

SriLankan Airlines turns 45, celebrating a trailblazing journey that took off on September 1, 1979, with just two Boeing 707 aircraft. A pioneer in the region, the airline has always remained resilient in the face of turbulence and has consistently championed true Sri Lankan hospitality globally. Over the years, SriLankan Airlines has proven its versatility in an ever-evolving and testing environment. Today, SriLankan continues to be one of the major international airlines from South Asia, having achieved numerous milestones and accolades along the way. Key Milestones and Achievements: 1979 – Launch of Air Lanka with two Boeing 707 aircraft (1st September) 1979 – Maiden flight to Bangkok on 1st September 1979 – Services are launched to Bahrain, Frankfurt, London, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, Paris, Zurich, Madras and Male 1980 – Launch of Air Lanka Catering Ltd 1980 – First Lockheed L1011 Tristar acquired 1984 – Boeing 747-200 acquired 1990 – Air Lanka becomes a member of IATA (International Air Transport Association) 1990 – Three Ilyushin IL-86’s leased to operate mercy flights for Sri Lankans fleeing Gulf War 1991 – First international airline to obtain IATA accreditation for its Centre for Training 1992 – Launched frequent flyer programme “The Serendib Club” 1993 – First Airbus A320-200 acquired 1994 – First Airbus A340 acquired, becoming the first in South Asia to operate Airbus A340 1998 – Enters into a strategic partnership with Emirates 1999 – Air Lanka rebranded as SriLankan Airlines 1999 – First Airbus A330-200 acquired 2000 – Phased out Lockheed Tristars for an all-Airbus fleet 2000 – The cargo arm rebranded as ‘SriLankan Cargo’ and as a separate entity 2000 – SriLankan Cargo launches dedicated freighter service using Antonov AN12F …

Noida International Airport is prepared to take off promising a significant boost to tourism in the region. The upcoming launch of the airport marks a major milestone for Indian aviation, enhancing connectivity and passenger comfort. Noida International Airport (NIA) continues to make significant strides towards its operational launch, with construction activities proceeding at a rapid pace. The airport, slated to commence commercial operations by the end of April 2025, is set to play an inflectional role in the growth of Indian aviation. Constructions Headway Passenger Terminal: The passenger terminal is taking shape, with work on facades and roof well underway. The installation of the baggage handling system is nearing completion, while MEP and finishing works are progressing steadily. Runway: The asphalt works on the runway have been successfully completed. Focus is now on runway markings, approach lights, and airfield ground lighting. Air Traffic Control: MEP works and finishing works are in progress at the ATC Tower. Navigational aids like DVOR have been calibrated, and preparations for Instrument Landing System (ILS) calibration are underway. Partnerships and Operations Take Flight Airlines Onboard: IndiGo and Akasa Air have signed MoUs with NIA, and discussions on network planning and operational requirements are ongoing. Strong interest from other domestic and international carriers is evident. Concessions Awarded: Key aero concessions, including into-plane fuelling services, ground handling, and cargo, have been awarded. Non-aero concessions for retail, dining, lounge, duty-free, and hotel have also been signed. Seamless Passenger Journey: Factory acceptance tests for key airport systems are complete, and equipment has started arriving on site. Check-in kiosks, self-service bag drops, and e-gates are being tested. Operational Readiness: Agreements for crucial operational and maintenance services, including airfield lighting, passenger …

Aviation Regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Thursday, has placed low-cost carrier SpiceJet under enhanced surveillance due to safety deficiencies uncovered during a recent audit of August 2024. This is the third time SpiceJet has faced strict supervision from the regulator, following safety incidents in 2022 and weak finances in 2023. The airline’s monetary troubles have resurfaced, as evidenced by recent incidents like the Dubai Airport halting boarding of SpiceJet flights due to unpaid dues and flights being unable to fly over Pakistan due to unpaid overflying charges. The DGCA’s decision to place SpiceJet under enhanced surveillance underlines ongoing safety concerns with the airline’s operations. The repeated regulatory scrutiny of SpiceJet can damage the reputation of India’s aviation industry and raise questions about safety standards. “Due to concerns about SpiceJet’s recent flight cancellations and financial difficulties, the DGCA conducted a special audit of the airline’s engineering facilities on 7 and 8 August, 2024. This audit uncovered certain deficiencies,” the DGCA announced on Thursday. The DGCA will conduct more spot checks and night surveillance to ensure safety of SpiceJet’s operations. The airline faces significant financial challenges, including unpaid dues to aircraft lessors, vendors, and suppliers. SpiceJet’s market share in India’s aviation sector has been declining, further impacting its financial stability. While most Indian airlines rebounded significantly from the COVID-19 pandemic, SpiceJet faced ongoing financial challenges. SpiceJet’s repeated regulatory interventions and ongoing financial struggles pose a serious challenge to the airline’s future. The DGCA’s decision to place the airline under enhanced surveillance underscores the need for immediate action to address safety concerns and ensure the well-being of passengers.

Praveen Iyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air, won the DDP Game Changer award for playing an instrumental role in propelling Akasa Air to new heights. “This award is a testament to the power of hard work of our company in achieving remarkable milestones and becoming one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines”, he said after receiving the award.

Oman Air has launched its biggest ever Global Sale campaign, offering discounts of up to 25% on Business and Economy Class tickets across its entire network. Running until 5 September 2024, the sale offers travelers the perfect opportunity to explore some of the world’s most popular destinations, starting from as little as OMR 31. With a choice of stunning cities across Europe, the Far East, Indian Subcontinent and more, guests can experience Oman Air’s award-winning service, signature Omani hospitality, and convenient connectivity through its Muscat hub. The promotion includes one-way and return fares and is valid for travel from 1 September 2024 to 31 March 2025. Please note that the offer does not include domestic flights, interline flights, or codeshare partners. Other terms and conditions also apply. Bookings can be made through Oman Air’s website, mobile app, call center, sales office, or appointed travel agents.

Oman Air received delivery of its latest Boeing B787 9 aircraft, the first of three scheduled for this year. Part of an existing order, which includes eight more aircraft by 2027, the newest marks the tenth Dreamliner in the airline’s fleet. As one of the world’s most modern and advanced passenger aircraft, the B787-9 is known for its innovative design and exceptional fuel efficiency, while its wide cabins and large windows offer unparalleled on-board comfort for guests. The aircraft touched down in Muscat on 23 August 2024, arriving from the Boeing facility in Seattle. “We’re excited to welcome our new Boeing B787-9 to our aircraft line-up, which aligns with our strategy to fly a modern and common Oman Air fleet. It allows us to maintain efficiency in operations, optimise maintenance costs and ensure a seamless and consistent experience for our guests,” said Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer, Oman Air. “Our latest addition to the fleet is also consistent with our focus on transforming our airline towards financial sustainability, while upholding our reputation as a world-class carrier and supporting Oman’s ambitions to increase tourism and connectivity in the years to come.” The newest aircraft features a two-class configuration with 30 Business Class seats and 258 Economy Class seats and will serve across the airline’s network of destinations. Oman Air’s spacious, elegant cabin design, and exceptional service and hospitality, has garnered it a string of international awards, including most recently Best Seat Comfort in the Middle East at the APEX 2024 Awards and Best Airline Staff Middle East at the Skytrax 2024 Awards.

India has emerged as the global leader in the low-cost carrier market. Data from OAG revealed that LCCs, primarily IndiGo, account for 71% of India’s total airline seat capacity, surpassing the global average of 34%. In contrast, aviation giants like China rely on full-service carriers.

To cater to shifting demand and in line with global consumer trends, Oman Air has announced its new Business Studio. The new cabin, which will replace the airline’s First Class product, will retain its spacious cabin layout, classic lie-flat seats, and Wi-Fi connectivity, but with more affordable fares and a redefined service approach that is tailored to theneeds of modern travellers. Featuring predominantly on its London and Bangkok services, the new higher-tier Business experience offers all the features of premium flying along with Oman Air’s award-winning service and hospitality, giving guests the room to work, connect and rest like never before, whether traveling for business or premium leisure. “Inspired by valuable guest feedback and to adapt and evolve in line with global market trends, we have strategically refined our premium offering to deliver greater value and appeal. The traditional First Class experience has seen diminished demand, and after careful analysis and  benchmarking against industry standards, we decided to retire the product. This decision allows us to focus on delivering an exceptional Business Class experience that better meets modern traveller expectations and is more closely aligned with the demographics targeted by the national tourism objectives, such as such as wellness, adventure and MICE. Moreover, we’re offering it all at a more competitive price point,” said Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air. Oman Air’s new Business Studio offers the best Business Class available anywhere in the region with one of the world’s most generous pitches at 82”, privacy walls for every seat, 23-inch personal screen, free Wi-Fi connectivity, and à la carte dining to stay nourished on-the-go. Guests will be able to book Business Studio from 9 September 2024.

Kerala-based travel services operator Alhind Group has received the Civil Aviation Ministry’s initial nod to start an airline — Alhind Air. This takes the group’s ambition to enter India’s fast-growing aviation sector a step closer. The airline will start its operations by the end of 2024 after receiving the Air Operator Certificate from DGCA.

Nok Air, a leading premium budget airline in Thailand, has launched its new nonstop daily service between Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport (DMK). The new route will be operated by state-of-the-art Airbus 737-800 with 189 seats. Starting on October 28, 2024, the new route will offer convenient travel options for both business and leisure travellers seeking seamless connectivity between Thailand and India. With its well-known Thai hospitality service and tailored product offerings, Nok Air aims to provide passengers with an exceptional flying experience at an affordable price “This is a great milestone for Nok Air as we continue to increase our international network. This will enhance the travel connection from India to Bangkok and to our extensive domestic network. Not only well-known destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi but also hidden gems across the country such as Chiang Rai, Nan, Udon Thani, Trang, and others,” said Wutthiphum Jurangkul, Chief Executive Officer, Nok Air. Passengers can purchase tickets starting on August 19, 2024, with travel periods from October 28, 2024, to March 29, 2025. With Round Trip fares starting from INR 16,000* and can be purchased on www.nokair.com or through preferred travel agents. Timetable Destination Flight Number Departure Arrival BOM-DMK DD939 02.05 07.45 DMK-BOM DD938 22.05 01.05+1 Nok Air also operates four weekly flights from Hyderabad to Don Muang Airport (DMK), offering convenient connections to Bangkok and over 20 destinations across Thailand.