Aircraft Training - News & Announcements

Air India Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines and Air India Sign a Commercial Cooperation Framework Agreement

A commercial cooperation framework agreement has been signed by Singapore Airlines and Air India, paving the way for both airlines to further strengthen their existing partnership through joint business agreements. This collaboration enables airlines to discover ways to expand connectivity between Singapore and India, offering greater benefits for customers. It was signed on 16 January 2026 in Mumbai by Air India CEO and MD, Campbell Wilson, and SIA CEO, Goh Choon Phong. Conditional on regulatory approvals and the signing of definitive joint business agreements, the airlines’ goal is to expand and improve the product and service offerings, allowing seamless connections and additional route options and letting customers book flights across both airlines under a single unified journey. This corporation also envisions a closer coordination of flight schedules between Air India and Singapore Airlines to improve convenience for customers. Today, the airlines codeshare on 61 points in 20 nations and territories. This follows the October 2024 development of their codeshare corporation, which added 51 international and domestic destinations across both networks. Campbell Wilson, CEO and MD of Air India, said: “Air India is committed to growing its global footprint, both by adding new aircraft to our own fleet and by forging stronger commercial partnerships, particularly with our fellow Star Alliance member carriers. We are pleased to take our valued, lasting relationship with Singapore Airlines to the next level through this new commercial cooperation understanding, which starts a clear and structured platform for both airlines to discover and define future areas of closer collaboration. With this measured approach, we will lay a strong foundation for sustainable, longstanding value creation for our customers and other stakeholders.” Goh Choon Phong, CEO, Singapore Airlines, said: “This agreement is a natural evolution of our successful partnership, creating genuine value and offering improved benefits to customers. It is a strategic, win-win collaboration that will fortify connectivity between Singapore and India, support the advance of air travel and tourism in both nations, and deepen their established business and people-to-people ties.” Source: IBEF

Saheel Singh 20 Jan 2026

Indigo FDTL

22 Crore Fined on IndiGo for Massive Flight Disruptions in December

A Rs 22.20 crore penalty has been imposed on IndiGo and action has been taken against its management for the massive flight disruptions in December 2025. The chairman and members of InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, the firm that owns Indigo, confirmed they have received the DGCA's orders and will take appropriate action. Why did the Disruptions Happen? An inquiry committee, set up by the DGCA on the directions of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, found that the main causes were over-optimization of operations, insufficient regulatory preparedness, weak software systems and inadequacies in management oversight at IndiGo. IndiGo was unable to maintain adequate operational buffers and did not implement the revised flight duty time limitation (FDTL) norms as required. Crew rosters were designed to maximize use, relying heavily on deadheading, tail swaps and long duty hours, which decreased the time for recovery and compromised working efficacy. Action Against Management The DGCA issued a caution to the IndiGo CEO for insufficient overall oversight and crisis management. A warning is issued to the accountable manager for failing to evaluate the impact of the winter schedule 2025 and revised FDTL norms. A warning was issued to the senior vice president, directing that he be relieved of his current operational responsibilities. Warnings were also issued to the deputy head of flight operations, the AVP of crew resource planning and the director of flight operations for lapses in supervision, workforce planning and roster management. IndiGo has been told to take action against other personnel recognized internally and submit a compliance report to the DGCA. How was the Penalty Calculated? 1.80 crore was levied on the airline as a one-time penalty for six violations of the Civil Aviation Requirements, such as failing to adhere to FDTL norms, inappropriate control of operations and insufficient management oversight. A fine of 20.40 crore was levied on the airline by the regulatory authority for non-compliance with the revised FDTL provisions for an extended period of 68 days, spanning from 5th December 2025 to 10th February 2026. The total fine was Rs 22.20 crore.   Apart from this, the airline will also give a bank guarantee of Rs 50 crore under the IndiGo Systemic Reform Assurance Scheme. Passenger Relief and Reforms IndiGo restored its operations quickly post-disruption. Along with refunds and mandatory compensation to passengers, the airline issued a 'Gesture of Care' voucher of Rs 10,000, valid for a year, to all who suffered due to flight delays or cancellations of over 3 hours during the disruption. The MoCA conducted an internal inquiry within the DGCA for the identification and implementation of systemic improvements. Source: NDTV

Saheel Singh 19 Jan 2026

Wings India 2026 Aviation

Wings India 2026: Asia’s Largest Civil Aviation Event Will Showcase the Future of Aviation

Asia’s largest civil aviation event, Wings India 2026, will be launched by Rammohan Naidu, Minister of Civil Aviation. The launch will start a four-day global aviation event to be held from 28 to 31 January 2026 at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad.   The theme of the event will be “ Indian Aviation: Paving the Future, From Design to Deployment, Manufacturing to Maintenance, Inclusivity to Innovation and Safety to Sustainability ”. The event will highlight India’s fast-expanding aviation landscape, its growing global footprint, and its vision to develop into a hub for manufacturing, services, innovation, and sustainable aviation solutions. A Global Platform for Aviation Excellence Wings India 2026 will have an expansive international exhibition, static aircraft displays, flying and aerobatic shows, an advanced international conference, CEO roundtables, B2B and B2G meetings, an aviation job fair, an awards ceremony and vibrant cultural programmes. Delegates from across the world will reinforce the event’s stature as a leading global aviation forum. This event will be attended by airlines, aircraft and engine manufacturers, MROs, airport developers, OEMs, technology providers, training institutions and service partners. This will be a meeting point for industry leaders, policymakers, innovators and investors to deliberate on evolving trends, prospects, and pathways shaping the civil aviation future worldwide. The international conference will have 13 thematic sessions, along with the Global CEOs Forum and Ministerial Plenary, covering main areas, for example, Airports, Aircraft Leasing, Helicopters, Airlines, Women in Aviation, MRO, Air Cargo Transportation, Business Aviation and Small Aircraft, Aircraft Component Manufacturing, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Flying Training and Skilling, Advanced Air Mobility and Drones. Strong International and State Participation This event will be attended by foreign delegations and senior government officials from over 20 countries, as well as official delegations, reinforcing international cooperation in the aviation industry. Indian state participation will showcase aviation-led growth, investment prospects and infrastructure expansion. Spectacular Air Shows and Aircraft Displays Wings India 2026 will have impressive static aircraft displays, flying displays and aerobatic air shows, showcasing various aircraft. Highlight attractions comprise aerial performances by the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team. Dedicated platforms will be provided by the event for exhibitions, chalets and B2B/B2G meetings, allowing networking, partnerships and investment discussions. An Aviation Job Fair will connect industry leaders with aspiring aviation professionals. A curated Civil Aviation innovation Challenge for students will be organized to endorse innovation, problem-solving and industry-oriented thinking among students and professionals, providing them with practical aviation experience. The event will also have a vibrant Cultural Programme reflecting India’s rich heritage, adding an exclusive experiential dimension for delegates and visitors, together with the aviation showcases. An Award Ceremony, continuing the tradition of recognizing excellence and outstanding contributions in civil aviation will also be held. With its strategic focus, Wings India 2026 will be a landmark event that will not only showcase India’s aviation development story but also strengthen global partnerships, drive innovation and chart the future trajectory of the civil aviation sector. Source: PIB

Saheel Singh 19 Jan 2026

Adani Group Embraer

Adani–Embraer Deal Could Start Commercial Aircraft Assembly in India

India is working hard to become a substantial player in the global commercial aircraft manufacturing industry through a tactical partnership between the Adani Group and Brazil’s Embraer. After the MoU was signed between Adani Aerospace and Embraer in Brazil, the partnership plans to establish a local assembly line for Embraer’s regional passenger jets. This could be India’s first final assembly line for commercial aircraft. Although the full details of the project have not yet disclosed, the agreement includes assembling Embraer’s regional jet family, which serves short- to medium-haul routes and houses between 70 and 146 passengers. Should the project be completed, India would join the US, Brazil, Canada, France, and China, which operate commercial aircraft assembly lines.   Taking the history into account, the focus of the Indian aerospace industry has always been on defence programs, manufacturing components and systems integration and not on building a commercial aircraft assembly. Tactical Implications for Adani and the Indian Aviation Industry The assembly line aligns with the Adani Group’s lofty ambitions. The company has dedicated INR 1 trillion to investing in its airports business in the next 5 years and has expanded into maintenance, repair and flight simulation training. The Director at Adani Airport Holdings Ltd, Jeet Adani, focused on the company’s strategy to differentiate airport infrastructure from aircraft-related services and to consolidate MRO competencies through entities, for instance, Indamer and Air Works, into a unified platform. The incorporation of an Embraer assembly line would integrate manufacturing into Adani’s aviation ecosystem, creating an inclusive pipeline which spans assembly, maintenance, training and lifecycle support. This model is typical of more advanced aviation markets and could advance working competencies and service offerings within the aviation sector of India. Support of the Government and Context of the Market The partnership’s timing is significant, taking into account that India is among the fastest-growing aviation markets worldwide. With over 1,800 aircraft on order from IndiGo, Air India and Akasa Air, the requirement for new aircraft is sizable. However, delivery slots for single-aisle aircraft from Airbus and Boeing are mainly booked well into the next decade. The government of India has urged global manufacturers to establish final assembly lines in India to boost industrial capabilities and reduce dependence on imports. There can be economic incentives for airlines to order aircraft assembled in India. Investors are hopeful about the deal and are interested in knowing about scalable platforms and consolidation forecasts in the commercial aerospace industry. Embraer’s strong delivery performance in 2025, surpassing its annual estimates, underscores a favourable environment for the partnership's success. Implementation Challenges for this Deal   There is no doubt that the overall outlook for the aviation sector looks very promising for establishing commercial aircraft assembly in India, but it is not without challenges. There is a need for profound supplier networks, stringent quality control systems and regulatory alignment with aviation authorities worldwide. Aircraft manufacturing needs a lot of capital, the margins are thin and it hinges heavily on airline demand to keep up production stability. Any efficacious final assembly line implementation would need strong policy support, competitive cost and lasting commitments from both manufacturers and airlines to guarantee viability and sustainability. Source: Times of India

Saheel Singh 16 Jan 2026

Air India Airbus

Air India Long-Haul Flights Hit by Delays After Delhi-New York Flight Engine Damage

Air India has warned passengers that some long flights may be delayed or disrupted after one of its Airbus A350 aircraft was damaged at Delhi airport on Thursday. The problem occurred after the aircraft landed and was taxiing on the ground in dense fog. The plane struck a foreign object while en route to the parking area. Later, India’s DGCA confirmed that the object was a cargo container that had fallen off a vehicle and ended up on a taxiway. Further investigation is being carried out, the DGCA said. Photos shared on social media showed a hole in the engine’s air intake. Air India A350 Engine Damaged at Delhi  The aircraft, VT-JRB, was operating Flight AI101 from New Delhi to New York. Soon after take-off, the flight had to return to Delhi because Iranian airspace was suddenly closed. After landing safely at Runway 28 at IGI airport, the aircraft started taxiing towards the apron area. At the taxiway N and N4 intersection, one of the engines ingested a cargo container. The episode occurred around 5.25 am, when visibility was poor due to dense fog. The container was sucked into the aircraft’s No. 2 engine, causing the most damage. The civil aviation ministry shared more details about the incident. As stated by the ministry, a tug operated by BWFS was conveying baggage containers to the Baggage Make-up Area of Terminal 3. While crossing the taxiway joint on the vehicular lane, a container fell onto the taxiway. That container was in the aircraft's path and was sucked into the engine as the plane passed. What was Said by Air India? Air India confirmed that Flight AI101, operating from Delhi to New York, returned to Delhi shortly after takeoff because Iran closed its airspace, which affected its planned route. Post landing in Delhi, the aircraft was struck by a foreign object while taxiing in dense fog, which resulted in damage to the right engine.” “The aircraft was safely positioned at the parking stand, guaranteeing the safety of all passengers and crew on board”. What is Revealed by the Initial Investigation? Initial investigation has revealed that a BWFS tug conveying a few containers to the ‘Baggage Makeup Area’ of Terminal 3 crossed this intersection while on the vehicular lane. Throughout crossing, one of the containers collapsed onto the taxiway intersection. This container was downed into the No. 2 engine of the A350 aircraft. The aircraft is grounded as the investigation continues, and authorities are focusing on airside safety, particularly through low-visibility conditions.” Source: Financial Express

Saheel Singh 16 Jan 2026

Saudia Air India

Air India and Saudia Sign Codeshare Agreement

Saudia and Air India have signed a codeshare agreement, which will take effect in February 2026. This brings many benefits for the guests of both airlines, improving connectivity, enhancing the travel experience, strengthening network access, maximizing flight options and supporting growing demand across tourism, business travel and broader guest segments. Through the new corporation, guests will enjoy efficient booking and ticketing, seamless connections with a single itinerary and baggage check-through to their final destination. Air India guests travelling to Jeddah or Riyadh with Air India can take unified onward connections on Saudia-operated flights to Dammam, Abha, Gassim, Gizan, Madinah and Taif. The addition of codeshare flights on the Jeddah-Riyadh route now lets guests more flexibility to arrive in one city and depart from another. Connections to select complementary international destinations will be added later this year. The codeshare will also offer Saudia’s guests access to key cities across India via Mumbai and Delhi, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Lucknow, and Jaipur, as well as over 15 other destinations via interline. Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India, said: “Saudi Arabia is among our most significant markets in the Middle East, with the nation fast transforming into a key international gateway to the region. We are happy to be partnering with Saudia to provide greater access to the large Indian diaspora spread across Saudi Arabia, along with opening up the Kingdom’s rapidly developing and diverse tourism offerings and extraordinary destinations to travellers from India.” H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, DG of Saudia Group, said, “The agreement with Air India marks a tactical step forward, given both airlines’ long histories and their shared commitment to growing connectivity within their home markets and between their nations, while providing guests broader access to more destinations through basic travel procedures that raise the overall travel experience.” He added: “Saudia’s existence in India spans over 60 years, throughout which we have proudly served various guests and helped foster stronger ties between our two countries. Saudia Arabia is an incredible place to visit. With unified e-visas, stopover visas, and visa-on-arrival for suitable Indian passport holders, it has never been easier to visit the Kingdom.” Air India has considerably extended its global network. At present, it has 24 codeshare partnerships and around 100 interline agreements with leading carriers all over the globe, offering access to more than 800 destinations. Source: Aviation World

Saheel Singh 15 Jan 2026

Iran Airspace Airspace Closure

Airlines Issue Advisory for International Flyers as Iran Shuts Airspace

On 15th January, Indian carriers issued advisories for international passengers after Iran momentarily closed its airspace, triggering flight delays, rerouting and cancellations on more than a few overseas routes. Airlines urged travellers to check flight status before heading to airports, describing the expansion as sudden and unforeseen and saying flights were being rerouted in the interest of passenger and crew safety. What is Said by the Airlines? Air India said flights were being rerouted, which could cause delays, while some services had been cancelled where rerouting was not feasible. “As a result of the closure of Iranian airspace, some international flights are rerouted or cancelled.   Passengers should check flight status on our website. Safety of the crew and passengers is our priority,” the airline said. Several international flights were affected and the airline assured passengers alternative arrangements or refunds. SpiceJet directed passengers to check flight status online or contact its round-the-clock helpline, warning of possible disturbances owing to the airspace closure. Why has Iran Closed its Airspace? Iran extended the temporary closure of its commercial airspace early on 15 th January, among mounting tensions with the USA and ongoing nationwide protests. While officials did not quote a formal reason, the move followed warnings by Iranian authorities of fast-track trials and likely executions of protest detainees, together with threats of retaliation if the US or Israel intervened. The closure seems to be a precautionary measure as unrest continues in Tehran and other cities. Distinctly, some US staff in Qatar were counselled to evacuate and President Donald Trump issued various statements within 24 hours signalling likely action against Iran, though without providing details. How long will the Closure Last? Initial notices to pilots recommended the airspace would be closed until 7.30 am (local time) on 15 th January, following an earlier shutdown that lasted just more than two hours. Iranian authorities have not announced a permanent closure and international carriers are closely monitoring the state of affairs for further updates. Indian Embassy Issues Advisory The Indian Embassy in Tehran, on 14th January, advised Indian citizens, including students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists, to leave Iran by any means, including commercial flights. It counselled nationals to evade protests, exercise caution, stay in touch with the embassy and keep travel documents ready. More than 2,000 students from J&K are currently in Iran. The External Affairs Ministry has advised against non-essential travel to Iran amid the ongoing unrest. Source: The Business Standard

Saheel Singh 15 Jan 2026

Flight Disruption Fog

Airlines Warn of Flight Delays as Dense Fog Shrouds North India; Ops Stable

Airlines issued travel advisories on 14 th January as dense fog covered most of northern India, including Delhi-NCR, leading to flight delays. In an advisory issued on Wednesday morning, IndiGo warned passengers about unexpected drops in visibility across several cities. According to the airlines, Early-morning fog could affect visibility across Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Udaipur, impacting flight operations. Flights Impacted in Chennai, Agartala and Hindon IndiGo also said that low visibility obstructed flights in Chennai, Hindon and Agartala. Departures and arrivals to and from these cities might experience delays due to the weather conditions, and the situation was closely monitored. Operations from UP’s Hindon airport were also affected. Fluctuating visibility at Hindon Airport led to changes in flight schedules and operations may be slower than usual as conditions evolve. According to the Airlines, operations would stabilize once weather conditions improve. Operations of the Airlines Largely Remain Stable The Delhi airport is closely tracking the fog situation and issuing hourly updates. At 8 am, the airport said all flight operations were normal. Numerous airlines, such as Akasa Air, rescheduled a large number of flights on Tuesday due to low visibility in northern India. According to the flight tracking platform FlightRadar24, the departure delay index, which estimates disruption in departures, stood at 1 for Delhi’s IGI Airport as of 8:40 am, indicating negligible disruption. In the meantime, the arrival delay index was at 0.7, signifying even fewer disruptions to landing operations. Fog Situation and Winter Disruptions Fog often leads to flight disruptions in northern India throughout the winter. Air India recently introduced measures to manage fog-related delays. The airline said that poor visibility due to fog is predicted in Northern India, including Delhi, with cascading impacts on our flight operations across the network. It was further added that its 'FogCare' initiative allows affected passengers to change flights without an extra payment or choose a full refund without penalty. Which Airlines Face More Difficulty? Airlines operating aircraft that are not CAT-III compliant will face more difficulty in near-zero visibility conditions. CAT-II and CAT-III-compliant aircraft have cutting-edge landing and navigation systems that allow operations in low-visibility conditions. CAT-II aircraft can land with partial visibility, while CAT-III aircraft can function even when visibility is extremely poor, owing to innovative autoland systems. Source: Business Standard

Saheel Singh 14 Jan 2026

Air India Boeing

Air India to Induce New Dreamliner on Long-haul International Routes from February

Air India, an Indian aviation giant, will introduce a Boeing 787-9 aircraft for international long-haul routes in February 2026. It is done in line with the airline's effort to advance its fleet and improve the passenger experience. The first line of the aircraft was formally handed over to Air India at Boeing's Everett factory in Seattle, USA, on 7 January. After the transfer, the Dreamliner landed at Indira Gandhi International Airport on 11 January, completing a non-stop ferry flight of 16 hours and 58 minutes. The new Boeing 787-9 will enter international, long-haul commercial service in February 2026, and the operation schedule will be announced shortly. Aircraft to Feature Three Cabin Classes, Custom-Made Interiors As stated by the airline, the new aircraft has 296 seats across three classes: Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. It also has custom-made cabin interiors installed directly on Boeing's production line. More details about the aircraft will be revealed in the coming weeks. Air India last received a line-fit Dreamliner in October 2017 when the carrier was still under government ownership. Though the airline was acquired by the Tata Group in January 2022, it continues to operate to date. As stated by the company, it will induct 5 more wide-body planes this year, for instance A350-1000s and B787-9s. Air India Places Orders for Airbus and Boeing Planes Air India has also ordered 350 Airbus and 220 Boeing aircraft. From the Airbus order, six wide-body A350S have already been inducted into the Air India fleet. In the meantime, 51 narrow-body B737-8s have been transported to Air India Express, the Tata Group-owned low-cost subsidiary of Air India that focuses on short and medium-haul routes. Furthermore, Air India's legacy B787-8 aircraft are being retrofitted, meaning they are experiencing upgrades to their cabins, interiors and onboard systems. Many of these planes will complete the process and return to service with a refreshed nose-to-tail makeover in 2026. By the end of this year, approximately 60% of their wide-body fleet will have contemporary interiors. Source:   The Economic Times

Saheel Singh 13 Jan 2026

Indian Air Force Indian Navy

France and India Nearing a Major Deal for 114 Rafale fighters Ahead of the French President’s Visit

France and India are inching closer to a Rafale agreement for the Indian Air Force, ahead of the French president's visit to India in February 2026.  New Delhi is examining a government-to-government framework that combines a large IAF order with extended local manufacturing, as the service seeks to address growing gaps in its fighter inventory. Macron will travel to India in February 2026 for an AI-focused summit, but French and Indian commentators expect defence industrial cooperation, such as the Rafale and engine partnership files, to feature prominently in sideline talks.  Talks Tied to the 114-jet MRFA Requirement  The deliberations are linked to the IAF’s long-lasting requirement for 114 modern fighters under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft program. At the same time, the exact number is still under debate. Reports claim that the projected requirement of 114 combat aircraft is the planning baseline.  Recently, the IAF has argued for a government-to-government Rafale order for the MRFA, citing the urgency created by squadron drawdowns and the type’s prevailing logistics and training footprint in India.  Any key obtaining would still need to pass through India’s standard approval chain, starting with the Defence Acquisition Council, followed by cost negotiations and final sign-off by the Indian Cabinet Committee on Security, accompanied by dedicated budget allocations.  Squadron Shortfall Adds Urgency  The IAF’s case for added Rafales comes as its fighter strength continues to slide. The last MiG-21s were retired by India in 2025. This decision left the service with about 29 fighter squadrons, below the authorized level of over 40.  Postponements in the induction of the Tejas Mk1A have added more pressure, prompting the IAF to consider near-term options that can be implemented swiftly and integrated with the existing infrastructure. Local Production at the Centre of the Proposal  Domestic manufacturing is developing as the central pillar of the prospective deal. In June 2025, Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Dassault Aviation signed an agreement to produce Rafale fuselage sections at Hyderabad, the first such production line outside France. The plant will deliver its first units throughout 2028, ramping up to an output of about 24 fuselages annually for Indian and export orders.  Indian reports add that a broader industrial package is being discussed, including a partnership between HAL and Safran for an engine production plant in Hyderabad and an upkeep, repair and overhaul hub near Jewar in Uttar Pradesh, close to the forthcoming Noida International Airport. Added steps toward localizing high-end subsystems are also ongoing. Thales newly announced a partnership with Indian firm SFO Technologies for the production of key wired structures for the Rafale’s RBE2 active electronically scanned array radar .   Rafale’s Growing Role in the Indian Air and Naval Forces  India by now operates 36 Rafales in IAF service, delivered under a 2016 inter-governmental agreement with France. In April 2025, the government signed a separate deal for 26 Rafale M carrier-borne fighters for the Indian Navy, with deliveries to be completed by 2030.  The first four Rafale M aircraft will arrive in 2029, with the following deliveries phased through 2030 and 2031, providing a standard on pricing and timelines for any larger Indian Air Force package.  Source: The Economic Times

Saheel Singh 13 Jan 2026

IATA Akasa Air

Akasa Air Joins IATA and Becomes India’s Fifth Member Airline

Akasa Air, India’s youngest airline, is now a member of the International Air Transport Association.  In the year 2020, Alaska Air was started by Vinay Dube and backed by Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. Commercial operations began in August 2022 and operate a fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The airline operates a domestic network and began international services in 2024. With this expansion, it becomes the fifth Indian airline to be part of IATA, joining Air India, IndiGo, Air India Express and SpiceJet. The membership places the airline among over 360 carriers worldwide, which together account for more than 80 per cent of global air traffic. Akasa Air’s addition follows the successful completion of the IATA Operational Safety Audit. The audit assesses an airline’s flight operations, maintenance systems, safety management, security and organizational processes against international standards. Akasa Air is now listed as an IATA member airline in the Asia-Pacific. This expansion is a significant step in Akasa Air’s international integration, as the operations expand with global carriers. The move strengthens India’s aviation footprint just as outbound business travel rebounds to 92% of pre-pandemic levels. With Akasa planning to order 100 Boeing 737 MAX jets by 2028, IATA procedures will facilitate code-sharing, cargo alliances, and participation in carbon-offset programmes, significant for multinationals tracking Scope 3 emissions. Akasa’s expansion should surge seat supply on secondary India, Gulf and Southeast Asia routes, possibly lowering travel costs for repositioning staff and project teams. Source: Aviation Today

Saheel Singh 13 Jan 2026

Aviation Regulation Alcohol Regulation

'Regret incident': Air India Issues Statement After Pilot Found Drunk on Vancouver, Delhi flight; Initiates Probe

Air India said it regretted the occurrence after one of its pilots on a Vancouver–Delhi flight on December 23 was found to be drunk by Canadian authorities. Flight AI186 was delayed at Vancouver airport after the cockpit crew member was offloaded ahead of departure. In a statement, an Air India representative said Canadian authorities had flagged the issue, after which the pilot was taken for additional inquiry. “Consistent with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities,” the airline said. The spokesperson added that the pilot had been taken off flying duties throughout the enquiry and that strict action would be taken if any violation were confirmed. “Pending the consequence of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict punitive action as per the company policy,” the statement said. Air India said that there is a zero-tolerance policy on violations and said safety is its highest priority. The incident was highlighted after Transport Canada informed Air India that the pilot failed a breathalyzer test before operating the flight. In a letter dated December 24, Transport Canada said the incident resulted in a violation of Canadian aviation regulations and the conditions set out in Air India’s foreign air operator certificate. It also asked Air India to conduct a detailed investigation under its safety management system and to submit a report on the steps taken by January 26, 2026. It also said enforcement action could be pursued by Canadian authorities. The flight operated a long-haul route that now includes a refuelling stop due to Pakistan airspace restrictions. AI186 was to take flight from Vancouver to Vienna with one set of pilots, after which another crew would take over for the Vienna–Delhi leg. Source: Times of India

Saheel Singh 02 Jan 2026

Boeing Air India

Air India under Fire Yet Again. Why has the DGCA issued a Show-Cause Notice this Time?

Air India has come under the radar once again for operating a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner despite repetitive technical glitches and system degradations. The DGCA issued a show-cause notice to the airline, flagging non-compliance with the Minimum Equipment List for the flight operated on June 28. The airline has faced complaints in 2025, with the DGCA previously issuing notices over crew and compliance violations, training gaps and maintenance concerns. As reported by PTI, the DGCA has noted safety concerns regarding aircraft dispatch, MEL compliance, and flight crew decision-making throughout the operation of flights AI 258 and AI 357. It is believed that these flights operate on the Delhi-Tokyo route. The regulator also said Air India had operated the plane despite prior knowledge of repeated hitches and system degradation. DGCA Probes Boeing 777 Engine Failure After Mid-Air Shutdown The expansions came days after the DGCA began probing an Air India incident involving a mid-air engine failure and a rushed return to Delhi airport. The Boeing 777-300ER aeroplane had seen the oil pressure in its right-hand engine drop to zero soon after take-off, forcing the crew to shut it down mid-climb. The Ministry of Civil Aviation had also noted the Air India flight AI-887 incident and sought a comprehensive report from the airline. A statement from Air India said the crew operating AI-887 decided to return to Delhi due to a technical issue, in line with standard operating procedures. It added that the aircraft is undergoing necessary checks, while a replacement plane departed with all passengers on board. The aircraft, carrying 335 people, was flying for approximately an hour before returning to Delhi. Air India to Bring Back Boeing 787-8 The Tata Group airline also outlined its 2026 plans on Wednesday, confirming that the first two Boeing 787-8 planes from its legacy fleet will return to service in February after a full interior refit. Air India’s CCO Nipun Aggarwal added in a letter to loyalty programme members that the refit of its 777 fleet will also commence this year. Six new wide-body aircraft, comprising 787s and A350S, are slated to arrive in the future.   Source: The Financial Express

Saheel Singh 02 Jan 2026

Pilot Fatigue Aviation Laws

Delhi Court Asks Aviation Body to Explain Relaxations in Pilot Fatigue Rules

The Delhi High Court sought a response from the DGCA on a plea by the Indian Pilots Guild seeking contempt action against authorities for allegedly not fully realizing the new flight duty time limitation norms accepted by the court earlier this year. The plea supposed that airlines were granted extensions and relaxations in pilot fatigue management rules in violation of the Civil Aviation Requirement 2024 framework. Justice Amit Sharma issued notice to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation on the Indian Pilots Guild's contempt petition and asked it to file a response. The court listed the matter for additional hearing on April 17. In its plea, the association sought the initiation of contempt proceedings against the authorities for their alleged wilful and deliberate non-compliance with the court's earlier orders. It said the new Flight Duty Time Limitation norms were meant to address fatigue management for the flying crew; however, by granting variations, exemptions, and relaxations to airlines, DGCA has defied the undertaking and directions of the high court and jeopardized flight and passenger safety. "By approving non-compliant FDTL schemes and granting variations, exceptions and relaxations to the airlines, the actions of the respondents in the implementation of the FDTL CAR constitute wilful non-compliance of the directions of this court...," the plea said. DGCA's counsel opposed the contempt plea, arguing that the court had not frozen the CAR's filings. While application timelines were binding, the regulator retained constitutional powers under the Aircraft Act and Rules to grant temporary, case-specific exemptions. DGCA's counsel argued that such relaxations were limited, subject to review and that the CAR remains in force. Earlier this year, DGCA, in its affidavit before the high court in an alternative matter, said the new FDTL norms will be implemented in a phased manner. Of the 22 proposed clauses, 15 were implemented on July 1, and the remaining are to take effect on November 1, 2025. The watchdog's revised CAR 2024 related to the FDTL provides for more rest time for pilots, among concerns over pilot fatigue. Primarily, the new norms were to take effect on June 1, 2024. The court's decision followed pleas filed by the Indian Commercial Pilots Association, the Indian Pilots Guild, and the Federation of Indian Pilots concerning the regulator's revised FDTL norms. In November 2025, the Federation of Indian Pilots also filed a contempt petition, claiming that the DGCA had deliberately failed to comply with the High Court's directions. The federation demanded that, despite assurances to the court, the regulator allow airlines extensions and relaxations and clear fatigue management schemes that did not align with the CAR 2024 norms or the agreed timelines. Source: NDTV

Saheel Singh 17 Dec 2025

Aviation Training Aircraft Flying

Civil Aviation Ministry Issues Alert for Northern India Airports Amid Dense Fog, Travellers Should Check Flights

The Civil Aviation    Ministry issued a heavy fog alert for airports across north India, warning that dense fog has reduced visibility and disturbed flight operations, particularly in Delhi. Passengers should check their flight status with the airline before leaving and monitor updates on the airline's website or application. Travellers should allow extra time for their journeys because of possible fog-related delays. On X, the Ministry of Civil Aviation wrote, "Heavy Fog Alert for Northern India, Delhi & other airports in Northern India are experiencing dense fog, affecting visibility. Passengers should check the latest flight status with their airline. Check flight information on the airport website. Please allow extra travel time. Safety is top priority. Our teams & ATC are working diligently to minimize disruptions. I appreciate your patience." The Ministry emphasized that safety is a top priority. Passengers were patient and cooperative during the ongoing adverse weather conditions. In the meantime, IndiGo Airlines also issued an advisory about low-visibility conditions over the national capital, noting that dense fog has affected operations at Delhi and several other airports in northern India. "Low visibility (below minima), because of dense fog, has severely impacted operations at Delhi and airports across northern India, which is beyond our control. Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Delhi airport, in line with established safety protocols," IndiGo said in the press statement. The airline said that while operations are being adjusted according to prevailing weather conditions, some flights may be delayed, and others could be cancelled proactively during the day to prioritize safety and avoid extended waiting times at airports. “We have issued advisories to our customers and proactively informed them to minimize inconvenience," the statement read. IndiGo further urged passengers to regularly check flight status on official airline websites and mobile applications to stay updated on any delays or cancellations before travelling to the airport. Source: Business Line

Saheel Singh 15 Dec 2025

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DGCA Stiffens Fatigue Rules, Mandates Airlines to Train Roster Planners and File Quarterly Reports

DGCA mandates flight fatigue management training for schedulers and dispatchers who prepare rosters for pilots and seeks to strengthen measures to address persistent fatigue concerns among cockpit crews. Also, the DGCA, in a circular dated November 20, has directed airlines to submit quarterly fatigue reports, comprising the number of crew trained in fatigue management and the number of fatigue reports received, accepted or rejected. The airlines should also state the reasons for rejecting any fatigue reports. IndiGo and Air India had initially opposed the implementation of the new norms. The second phase, with some relaxations, of the revised norms came into force from November 1. "The fatigue off should be no less than 24 hours and include one local night and must have a fatigue risk management policy, an education and awareness training program, a fatigue reporting system, a system for monitoring flight crew fatigue and an incident reporting process. As stated in the circular, an audit was conducted of all scheduled operators to evaluate the implementation of the first phase of the FDTL (Flight Duty Time Limitation) norms from July, and it was found that the operators were uncertain of the scope of Annual Fatigue Training to be implemented. The annual fatigue training would be defined in the operations manual and would have at least 1 hour of training scheduled during the Annual Ground Training for operators. "The training might be combined with schedulers, dispatch staff and all personnel responsible for the implementation of various provisions of this Civil Aviation Requirement. The fatigue training should be conducted by trained staff and should comprise its effect on the flight crew and measures to mitigate crew fatigue," the circular said. Airlines will issue a fatigue reporting policy as a circular to all stakeholders, the DGCA said, adding that the operators should have an independent Fatigue Review Committee that will analyze and recommend measures to ease fatigue. Source: Economic Times

Saheel Singh 28 Nov 2025

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Indias Domestic Aviation Demand Strengthens in October 2025

India’s aviation landscape for October 2025 indicates that domestic air passenger traffic, ICRA's projections, and passenger load factor trends reflect underlying resilience in the nation’s travel ecosystem. There is a noticeable rise in overall travel interest, driven mainly by renewed confidence among leisure travellers, improved fleet availability, and seasonal tourism peaks that frequently inspire movement across key states and cities. According to the latest analysis by ICRA, passenger movements across Indian airports have been supported not only by higher flight occupancy but also by sustained recovery in aviation-related operations, which have contributed significantly to travel and tourism in the country. In October, domestic air passenger traffic in India grew in line with broader improvements across the national aviation network, suggesting the sector has efficiently adapted to operational challenges. Encouraging numbers in capacity deployment, combined with consistently strong interest amongst travellers heading to established and emerging destinations, have helped create a stable foundation for the aviation outlook. This expansion is significant for India’s travel sector, where air connectivity is important in linking tourism hubs and supporting regional economies. Steady Growth Reflected in India’s Domestic Aviation Activity The domestic aviation sector in India has been observed moving through a phase of renewed momentum in October 2025, with ICRA estimating that passenger traffic reached 14.28 million during the month. This signified a 4.5% increase over the 13.6 million passengers who travelled in October 2024. The month-on-month growth of 12.9% compared to September 2025 further indicated that the aviation landscape is benefiting from a surge in holiday travel, festival-related movement, and improved connectivity across the country’s major travel corridors. India’s domestic aviation network, supporting vital tourism flows across states such as Goa, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, and Jammu and Kashmir, has anchored the resurgence of intra-country travel. With improving convenience and accessibility, the sector has played a central role in revitalizing local tourism economies that depend heavily on air-linked visitors. Passenger Load Factors Highlight Sustained Travel Demand The average passenger load, one of the strongest indicators of aviation demand, stood at 84.7% during October 2025. This marked an improvement over the 82.4% recorded in October 2024. This shift is a clear reflection of strong, consistent consumer appetite for travel within India. A high PLF has also been advantageous for airlines operating in the country, allowing more efficient seat use and improving operational stability. Tourist-heavy routes, for example, those connecting Delhi to Leh, Mumbai to Kochi and Bengaluru to Port Blair, have contributed to these strengthened load factors. Seasonal demand for hill stations and beach destinations has a big role in shaping this positive trajectory. Return of Grounded Aircraft Helps Ease Operational Pressure In October, domestic capacity deployment rose 1.7% year on year, with a 10.8% consecutive increase. These improvements were due to the return of grounded aircraft to service and by airlines' improved fleet utilization. India’s aviation sector has been experiencing periodic constraints due to supply chain delays, upkeep requirements and global market uncertainties. The reintroduction of grounded aircraft has therefore been instrumental in stabilizing seat availability across the country. This enhanced capacity has supported tourism-dependent regions where flight frequencies are vital for maintaining tourist arrivals. Improved seat supply has also helped travellers visiting pilgrimage sites, wildlife reserves, luxury resort destinations and remote hill regions in India that depend heavily on-air connectivity. Performance Overview for the First Seven Months of FY26 From April to October 2025, India’s domestic air passenger traffic is projected at 94.45 million, a modest year-on-year increase of 1.6 per cent. Though this increase has been measured against the more robust recovery phase witnessed in FY25, it has nevertheless indicated stability in the sector among various global and domestic challenges. In the corresponding seven months of FY25, domestic air passenger traffic was about 1,653.8 lakh, which reflected a stronger 7.6% year-on-year expansion. This earlier growth aligned with ICRA’s projections of 7-10% for FY25. Broader financial sentiment, temporary disruptions and evolving passenger behaviour patterns in business and leisure travel have influenced the shift from high to moderate growth in FY26. External Factors Shaping the Aviation Environment While travel demand remains healthy, ICRA has highlighted numerous factors that could shape growth consequences in the near future. Cross-border tensions have introduced doubts into aviation routes, while ATC disruptions have added operational intricacy to flight scheduling. Also, a mild softening in business travel sentiment has been observed due to shifting corporate priorities, remote-work dynamics, and ongoing global market conditions. Despite these influences, tourism-driven demand continues to anchor the domestic travel ecosystem. Enthusiasm amongst holidaymakers has remained high, particularly as India offers diverse travel landscapes that attract both repeat and first-time flyers. Augmented interest in short-haul trips, experiential tourism and flexible weekend travel has helped preserve consistent passenger movement across domestic airports. Stability Expected for FY26 Aviation Outlook ICRA has placed a Stable outlook on India’s aviation industry for FY26. Domestic traffic growth is projected at 4 to 6%, while international traffic is projected to rise by 13 to 15%. These projections confirm that India’s aviation system is well-positioned for gradual, sustained growth, supported by strong fundamentals such as airport upgrades, enhanced airline efficiency, and expanding networks serving key tourism circuits. International travel demand linked to routes connecting India to Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe has also been contributing to a positive aviation environment. As new flights and restored routes, such as Air India’s planned resumption of Delhi–Shanghai operations, become available, India’s position in the global travel network is expected to strengthen further. Source: Travel and Tour World

Saheel Singh 19 Nov 2025

Aviation Training Aviation Exams

"Its More Than Tech Glitch": Air Traffic Controllers on Delhi Airport Chaos

The ATCs' Guild has raised concerns over the current failure of the Automatic Message Switching System at IGI Airport, describing it as "more than a technical glitch in India's air traffic infrastructure." In a letter to the Civil Aviation Minister, the Guild stated that the fiasco was a reflection of inadequacies in the nation's aviation communication and navigation preparedness. The disruption, which occurred between November 6 and 8, 2025, required ATCs to manually handle more than 2,500 daily aircraft movements, including in excess of 1,500 scheduled flights and about 1,000 overflying aircraft. Describing the failure as "infrastructural, a clear lapse in system maintenance and timely replacement", the Guild noted that the AMSS supplied by Electronics Corporation of India Limited failed because of technical reasons and was restored only after direct ECIL intervention. The system had already surpassed its OEM-supported validity period, while procurement and upgradation had been delayed. The letter criticized the Airports Authority of India for maintaining an expensive, manpower-heavy model in its Communication, Navigation and Surveillance systems. It stated that while OEMs such as Thales, Indra, Raytheon, ECIL, Honeywell, and BEL offer global lifecycle support with smaller teams, AAI employs approximately 500-600 CNS personnel just to manage about 50 MSSR radar systems. By comparison, OEM ELDIS Pardubice functions radar systems worldwide with only about 250 staff. The Guild argued that this domestic approach doubles AAI's costs without improving competence, calling for OEM-backed maintenance and support contracts to guarantee accountability and dependability. It also cautioned that such outdated infrastructure and procurement delays could have extensive safety implications. "ATC is the only real-time safety-critical service in AAI governed by ICAO and DGCA guidelines, where minor errors have direct safety consequences". The Committee's 380th report, tabled in August 2025, recommended urgent review and modernization of air traffic automation. To avert future breakdowns, the Guild proposed more than a few structural reforms, including a government-led investigation into the AMSS failure, holding officials accountable, and reviewing automation upgrades at other major airports such as Mumbai and Bengaluru. It also urged the acceptance of redundancy systems, such as parallel AMSS servers and modern automation tools, to guarantee operational continuity. The Guild stated that despite the AMSS malfunction, ATCs guaranteed safe operations under extreme pressure by generating flight plans manually and coordinating closely with the Air Defence and ECIL engineers for restoration. Source: NDTV

Saheel Singh 18 Nov 2025

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The Asia Pacific region will Require 19,560 New Planes over 20 years: Airbus

The APAC will require 19,560 new narrow-body and wide-body planes over the next two decades, mainly driven by demand from India and China, Airbus said. The demand, Airbus said, represents 46% of the global requirement for 42,520 new aircraft over two decades. India and China are powering a major portion of the growth, Airbus Asia Pacific President Anand Stanley said. With increasing passenger traffic, the APAC will experience an annual passenger growth rate of 4.4 per cent, surpassing the global average of 3.6%. India is one of the world's fastest-growing civil aviation markets, and airlines have placed important orders as they expand their fleets to meet the increasing demand for air travel. Presenting the forecast during the Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines' Annual Assembly of Presidents in Bangkok, Airbus stated that the region will require around 3,500 wide-body aircraft over the two decades. This number represents 43% of global demand in the larger size aircraft categories. According to the forecast, the APAC region will require approximately 16,100 single-aisle aircraft, accounting for 47% of the new deliveries globally throughout the specified period. “Nearly 68% of the aircraft deliveries will support fleet expansion, while 32% will replace older models, making a substantial contribution to decarbonization efforts. "The next-gen Airbus wide-body aircraft offers an immediate 25% improvement in fuel efficiency and a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions," Airbus said. Stanley said the APAC region is entering an exciting phase of growth. In addition to passenger growth, network development, the penetration of low-cost carriers, and infrastructure are the major drivers of air travel. Source: The Hindu

Saheel Singh 18 Nov 2025

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India Eyes 30,000 Pilots to Power Economic Lift-Off

India’s growing civil aviation sector is on a collision course with a massive workforce shortage, as Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu revealed India will need an additional 30,000 pilots to manage the expansion of the domestic fleet. The strict requirement stems from the pending orders placed by Indian carriers for about 1,700 new aircraft from manufacturers, for example, Boeing and Airbus. Speaking at the CII Partnership Summit, Naidu quantified the scale of the impending challenge. He explained that to operate a single commercial aircraft on a proper schedule, the industry requires between 10- 15 pilots. Multiplying this ratio across the 1,700 aircraft on order translates directly to a demand for about 25,000 to 30,000 new aviators in the near future, as these planes enter service. The minister highlighted the contrast between future demand and current capacity. India currently operates a fleet of approximately 834 commercial aircraft, with a total pilot strength of around 8,000. Crucially, Naidu pointed out that 2,000 to 3,000 of these licensed pilots are not actively flying, further worsening the immediate operational gap. The shortfall necessitates an urgent and significant overhaul of the country’s training infrastructure. Naidu focused that the existing ecosystem of Aviation Training Organizations is inadequate to meet this future demand, as they produce limited CPLs annually. He emphasized the importance of scaling the training ecosystem to guarantee that a lack of trained professionals does not deter the rapid growth of the market.   The minister also stated that every job created in the aviation sector in India generates approximately 15 indirect jobs, making the push for pilot training a vital component of employment generation and financial growth. The government is looking to augment training capacity and is also considering a FedEx-style model of dedicated cargo airports to lift the air freight sector. Source: News 18

Saheel Singh 17 Nov 2025