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Which Is The Busiest Air Route In The World?

With air travel becoming more popular and accessible each year, it’s no surprise that the airplane is the most preferred mode of travel.

With millions of travellers flying around the world every day, it only makes you wonder which is the most travelled air route.

Is it London to New York or Hongkong to Singapore? Well, the answer will surprise you!

Recently, UK based Aviation Researchers OAG came out with the list of busiest air routes in the world based on passenger and aircraft movements. This is what they found out-

Jeju To Seoul Is The Busiest Air Route In The World

The world’s most crowded flight path is the 282-mile connection between the South Korean island of Jeju and the capital Seoul.

Last year, there were 64,991 departures between Jeju and Seoul, equating to an impressive 178 flights per day. A staggering 13,460,306 passenger travelled between the two airports.

Why Are So Many People Flying On This Route?

Interestingly, the route is hugely popular due to tourism rather than business.

Jeju is the capital of an island called Jejudo, which might just be the most popular holiday destination you’ve never heard of.

UNESCO-listed, and billed as South Korea’s ‘Hawaii’, it’s pure Instagram gold, and home to dramatic volcanic landscapes, underground caves, hiking trails and scenic beaches.

There are also casinos, which help lure travellers and thanks to the island’s self-governing status, anyone can visit without a visa.

The Busiest Air Routes In The World

The top ten busiest air routes in the world are all domestic with the 443 mile stretch from Melbourne to Sydney in second place with 54,519 departures. A total of 9,090,941 passengers flew between the two airports.

It’s no surprise that Delhi to Bombay is the 3rd busiest air route in the world in terms of aircraft movements and 5th in terms of passenger movements.

Here’s The Top 10 Busiest Air Routes In The World:

In Terms of Aircraft Movement
  • Jeju- Seoul (CJU-GMP) – 64,991
  • Melbourne – Sydney (MEL-SYD) – 54,519
  • Mumbai – Delhi (BOM-DEL) – 47,462
  • Fukuoka – Toyota Haneda (FUK-HND) – 42,835
  • Rio De Janerio – Sao Paulo Congonhas (GIG-GRU) – 39,325
  • Sapporo – Toyota Haneda (CTS-HND) – 38,389
  • Los Angeles – San Francisco (LAX-SFO) – 34,897
  • Brisbane – Sydney (BNE-SYD) – 33,765
  • Cape Town-Johannesburg (CPT-JNB) – 31,914
  • Beijing – Shanghai (PEK-SHA) – 30,029
In Terms Of Passenger Movement
  • Jeju – Seoul (CJU-GMP) – 13,460,306
  • Melbourne – Sydney (MEL-SYD) – 9,090,941
  • Sapporo – Tokyo Haneda (CTS-HND) – 8,726,502
  • Fukuoka – Tokyo Haneda (FUK-HND) – 7,864,000
  • Mumbai – Delhi (BOM-DEL) – 7,129,943
  • Beijing – Shanghai (PEK-SHA) – 6,833,684
  • Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City (HAN-SGN) – 6,769,823
  • Hong Kong – Taiwan Taoyuan (HKG-TPE) – 6,719,030
  • Jakarta – Juanda Surabaya (CGK-SUB) – 5,271,304
  • Tokyo Haneda – Okinawa (HND-OKA) – 5,269,481
The Top 10 Busiest International Air Routes In The World (According To Passenger Movement) :
  1. Hong Kong – Taiwan Taoyuan (HKG-TPE) – 6,719,030
  2. Jakarta – Singapore Changi (CGK-SIN) – 4,810,602
  3. Hong Kong – Shanghai Pudong (HKG-PVG) – 4,162,347
  4. Kuala Lumpur – Singapore Changi (KUL-SIN) – 4,108,824
  5. Bangkok Suvarnabhumi – Hong Kong (BKK-HKG) – 3,438,628
  6. Dubai – London Heathrow (DXB-LHR) – 3,210,121
  7. Hong Kong – Seoul Incheon (HKG-ICN) – 3,198,132
  8. Hong Kong – Singapore Changi (HKG-SIN) – 3,147,384
  9. New York JFK – London Heathrow (JFK-LHR) – 2,972,817
  10. Hong Kong – Beijing Capital (HKG-PEK) – 2,962,707
The Busiest Air Routes By Region
  • Jeju – Seoul (CJU-GMP) is the busiest within Asia-Pacific
  • Jeddah – Riyadh (JED-RUH) is the busiest within the Middle East
  • Cape Town – Johannesburg (CPT-JNB) is the busiest within Africa
  • Cancun – Mexico City (CUN-MEX) is the busiest within South/Central America
  • New York JFK – Los Angeles (JFK-LAX) is the busiest within North America
  • Izmir – Istanbul (ADB-IST) is the busiest within Europe

The Busiest Air Routes In India*

Now that we have an idea about the busiest air routes in the world, let’s take a look at the busiest air routes in India.

Busiest Domestic Air Routes In India:
  • Delhi – Mumbai (DEL-BOM) – 6,963,502
  • Delhi – Bangalore (DEL-BLR) – 4,152,372
  • Mumbai – Chennai (BOM-MAA) – 3,416,363
  • Delhi – Kolkata (DEL- CCU) – 3,002,957
  • Delhi – Pune (DEL-PNQ) – 2,580,697
  • Mumbai – Goa (BOM-GOI) – 2,502,387
  • Delhi – Hyderabad (DEL-HYD) – 2,486,276
  • Delhi – Chennai (DEL-CAA) – 2,409,784
  • Mumbai – Bangalore(BOM-BLR) – 2,330,557
  • Mumbai – Hyderabad (BOM-HYD) – 2,192,041
Busiest International Air Routes From India:
  • Mumbai – Dubai (BOM-DXB) – 2,432,260
  • Delhi – Dubai (DEL-DXB) – 2,072,847
  • Chennai – Singapore (CAA-SIN) – 1,194,124
  • Delhi – London (DEL-LHR) – 1,010,439
  • Hyderabad – Dubai (HYD-DXB) – 993,961
  • Chennai – Dubai (CAA-DXB) – 976,026
  • Delhi – Bangkok (DEL-BKK) – 960,205
  • Mumbai – London (BOM-LHR) – 957,814
  • Chennai – Bangkok (CAA-BKK) – 848,217
  • Mumbai – Bangkok (BOM-BKK) – 824,751

*In Terms Of Passenger Movement

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Hyderabad Airport To Introduce “Face Recognition Facility” For Passengers!

Following Bangalore Airport’s example, Hyderabad Airport will soon introduce ‘Face Recognition Facility’ for air travellers.

Passengers flying from the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) can get past all security checks and board the airplane by simply looking into the camera.

Here’s how it will work:

  • After a one-time registration at the entry gate, passenger details will be stored and facial features will be captured by the ‘Hi-Tech’ Cameras. The details will be the passenger’s unique signature
  • The next time that passenger has to board a flight, they won’t have to show the boarding pass. They’ll just have to stand in front of the camera
  • The camera will analyse and match the details and the passenger can gain entry
  • This technology will also be used at the security checks and the passenger won’t need to show the boarding pass there as well.
  • The boarding pass information will be integrated into the new system. It will automatically verify the information with the Airline DCS (Departure Control System).

This process will not only help the passengers but the airport staff as well.

The technology has already been tested for staff entry and will go live for passengers once the airport gets all the necessary approvals from regulatory authorities. It is said that this process will be implemented by the end of 2018.

E-boarding has already been introduced by Hyderabad Airport, therefore, it will be easy to implement this technology.

In the coming few days the airport will be rolling out a pilot project to make an airport journey completely paperless. They will do this by using biometric identification of a passenger to replace tickets and boarding passes.

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Bangalore Airport Inks Deal To Digitize Operations & Infrastructure!

Germany’s technology giants, Siemens, is all set to digitize operations at the Bangalore Airport to simplify airport systems and enhance customer experience.

The group’s subsidiary, Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics (SPPAL), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) to digitized the airport operations and infrastructure using the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, Artificial Intelligence and Data Analysis.

Managing Director and CEO of BIAL, Mr. Hari Marar, released a statement saying that Bangalore Airport is a pioneer and leader of change in the Indian aviation industry. BIAL’s aim is to introduce more digitally advanced and innovative services so that the passengers and stakeholders get the benefit of future technologies.

He also went on to say that with the signing of the MoU for digitalisation, BIAL is once again gearing up for a leading position in India together with SPPAL.

Here’s how SPPAL may digitize Bangalore Airport-

  • With a view to improve operational efficiency, the subsidiary will use MindSphere, an open cloud-based IoT operating system of Siemens.
  • The technology will standardize real-time exchange of quality-assured data. This will create more transparency of information and thus improve processes between the various stakeholders at the airport.
  • Another way it will benefit the airport is by improving the baggage handling system.
  • It is also planning to optimize aircraft spare part management at the airport using predictive analysis.
  • Data analysis and Artificial Intelligence will be implemented in the later stages of development

SPPAL recently opened a new MindSphere Application Centre (MAC) in Dubai, which will be used to develop future-oriented analytics and IoT solutions for airports, airlines, freight service providers and ground-handling services.

As the country’s third busiest airport after Mumbai and New Delhi, Bangalore airport handled 25 million (250 lakh) passengers in 2017. With such technologies being implemented, BIAL will surely be able to help modernize the airport and improve passenger experience.

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10 Travel Hacks To Make Your Airport Journey A Breeze!

For frequent flyers travelling through an airport is easy, but for most of us getting through the airport can be a tricky business.

The long queues, boring waits or worst, lost luggage can ruin anybody’s holiday buzz.

But if you’re well prepared, there are plenty of tricks that can make your airport journey a bearable experience.

To have a stress free and seamless experience at the airport, here are 10 travel hacks that will make your journey from the airport entrance to the boarding gate a breeze.

1. Take Pictures Of Your Luggage

 

Losing your luggage at the airport can be frustrating, especially if the airline misplaces it.

Click a few pictures of your check-in luggage before you leave for the airport. This will make it easier for airport staff to locate it if it goes missing in transit.

Describing your bag to a member of staff at a foreign airport could prove tricky so its good to be prepared.

2.Pack An Empty Water Bottle In Your Carry-On Bag

Airports have a reputation for being notoriously expensive when it comes to purchasing food or water. Plus you aren’t allowed to carry liquids during security checks.

However, security staff will allow you to carry empty bottles.

Once your security check is done, you can go to any water dispenser located at the food court or the boarding area and fill up your bottle.

Stay hydrated and fly healthy!

3.Check-In Next To First/Business Class Line

With things becoming automated these days, airports have installed self check-in kiosks for the convenience of the passenger.

But, most passengers want to take the conventional route and collect their tickets form the check-in desks.

Many seasoned travellers suggest that you should join the check-in line near the first/business class counter.

This is because mostly these lines have fewer passengers and if the counter is free, the desk agent can help you check-in, even if you’re traveling in the economy class.

4. Make Use Of The Internet

If your flight gets delayed and aren’t sure what’s going on, avoid the sea of people crowding the desk agent and trying to get information.

Jump online and check your airline’s official website. They will update the status of your flight without fail.

It’s also worth contacting your airline on Twitter as their customer service representatives are prompt to reply with all the necessary information.

5. Go To The Left At Security Checkpoint

After you’ve checked in and collected your boarding pass, the next step is to go through a security check.

Since a majority of people are right-handed, they tend to select the security lane on the right when faced with a choice.

This means that there’ll be fewer people standing in the left side queue at airport security counter.

Going through security can be torturous, so speed up the process by turning left!

6. Prepare For Security In The Queue Itself

The security queue is always the longest, as nobody seems to be prepared for it despite the fact that the process is always the same.

Don’t wait until you get to the front of the line to take your phone, keys, loose change and other stuff.

Take care of it while waiting in the inevitable security line.

7. Check Out The Lost & Found Section

If you’ve forgotten to pack an everyday item like a phone charger or headphones, you should definitely go to the ‘Lost & Found’ desk at the airport.

Anything that has been in lost and found for up to 90 days is no longer the property of its owner.

So if they have the item, you’re looking for, that has been in their possession for over 90 days, they can hand it over to you.

8. Find An Empty Boarding Gate During Layovers Or Delays

If you have a few hours to spare and don’t want to visit an expensive airport lounge, opt for a boarding gate which is not being used.

You’ll have a peaceful and comfortable experience when you have seats, power outlets and Wi-Fi signals to yourself at an empty gate.

Just make sure that you sit at a place where you can hear the announcements related to your flight.

9. Be Careful When Wearing Headphones

Listening to music, streaming a podcast or watching a movie on your mobile device helps pass time when you are waiting for your flight.

But, it also puts you at the risk of missing important announcements like a change in the boarding gate or a boarding call.

Make sure that you’re alert at all times and keep the volume low.

10. Be Informed About Your Destination or Layover Airport

You’re probably pretty familiar with your home airport, but layover/destination airports can get confusing, especially if you’re in foreign lands.

Today there are apps that help you map the airport by providing you with information about different amenities available at each terminal.

This can save you time if you’re trying to find food or toiletries during a tight connection.

Also running around the airport looking for a gate number is hardly relaxing, so map out your route by using these apps.

If you’re wondering which app to use, look no further. Simply download the AirWhizz App to get all the information you need about your airport along with real-time flight updates, information about airline policies and many other air travel services on the move.

Breeze through the airport with these simple hacks and Fly Stress-Free!

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Hyderabad Airport Ranked World No.1 For Service Quality!

Hyderabad Airport is officially one of the best airports in the world, in terms of service quality!

The international airport has been ranked ‘world No 1’ for ‘Airport Service Quality’(ASQ) by the Airports Council International (ACI) in the 5-15 Million Passengers Per Annum (MPPA) category.

The CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport (GHIAL), Mr. S.G.K Kishore, was there to receive the award at the ASQ awards ceremony, organised at the ‘2018 ACI Customer Excellence Global Summit’ at Halifax in Canada.

Mr. Kishore has said that the award is a recognition of the airport’s relentless efforts towards service excellence and customer delight. It will be their endeavour to continuously raise the bar and exceed customer expectations.

He also went on to thank the stakeholders, including the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Immigration, Customs and service providers such as airlines and airport staff for their constant support in helping the airport achieve this status.

The award was presented by the President and CEO of Halifax Stanfield International Airport, Ms. Joyce Carter.

Hyderabad Airport has been ranked No.1 for the second consecutive year and has been in the top 3 rankings for the past 9 consecutive years. The airport was adjudged World no 1 Airport in this category for the year 2016-2017.

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Bangalore Airport’s Second Runway To Be Powered By LED Lighting!

In a bid to become more environmentally friendly and save energy, Bangalore Airport will be using LED lighting system to illuminate its second runway.

The runway, which is scheduled to become operational in 2019, will be the first airport runway in the country to have LED lighting.

With this facility, Kempegowda International Airport, which is the 3rd busiest airport in India, will improve runway safety & efficiency while saving energy and cost.

The runway will be powered by a US-based firm, ‘ADB Safegate’ who are responsible for designing and supplying the Airfield Lighting (AGL) as well as Advanced Visual Docking Guidance Systems(A-VDGS).

The Company will provide the ‘SafeLED’ lights, Constant Current Regulators (CCR) for power management, cables and control systems.

According to Chief Project Officer Of Bangalore Airport, Mr. Tom Shimmin, this system will help the airport gear up to support the 55 aircraft per hour movement at the second runway in an efficient way and ensure safety.

The new runway will have an Advanced CAT III instrumental landing system that will cater to all types of airplanes including the Airbus 380 (The Largest Aircraft In The World) and Boeing 747/748.The runway is expected to become functional from October 2019.

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In-Flight Connectivity: Here’s What You May Have To Pay!

It will soon be possible for Indian travellers to use Wi-Fi and make calls while flying as the Department of Telecom(DoT) is set to allow In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) services from October.

As per the existing rules, no person can use any electronic device which intentionally transmits radio signals while aboard an aircraft. However, with the advancement in technology, it is not very difficult for Indian carriers to launch this facility after they get the licence.

How Much Will It Cost The Airline

According to experts, it would be a herculean task to provide IFC services since the cost of installation and the turnaround time to do so will be quite high.

It is estimated that the cost of installation will be around $100,000 per aircraft and turnaround time would be about eight days. However, this estimate depends on the aircraft type, fleet size, bandwidth, other technical specifications and regulatory requirements.

Estimates may vary, but the cost of providing IFC is certainly going to be high.

How Much Will You Have To Pay

Given the cost and turnaround time, it shouldn’t be a surprise if IFC services are expensive, at least in the initial stages.

Airlines across the world use different pricing strategies for connectivity services. The charges for net connection might range from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 for 30 minutes to an hour as per international standards.

However, a lot would depend on the packaging of the IFC services being offered by the airlines. To differentiate their product experience from other airlines, they may offer special packages to frequent fliers and premium customers or may even base pricing on the time of the flight (early morning flights generally have more corporate travellers).

Aviation experts believe that within a couple of years of the launch, one can expect these services to become free.

Airlines such as  Emirates, JetBlue and Turkish Airlines already offer free IFC. In two-three years, we can expect IFC services in India to become free of cost like in hotels, restaurants and malls.

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Food & Beverage At Indian Airports To Become Affordable!

In a bid to make refreshments affordable for air travellers, Airports Authority Of India(AAI) has ordered airports to sell snacks and beverages at Maximum Retail Price(MRP).

More than 90 government-run airports across the country will soon sell packaged drinking water at MRP along with snacks and tea at the lowest rate possible.

This decision by AAI has been taken after they received many complaints from passengers about the exorbitant prices charged for water and snacks at airport terminals.

In fact, in March 2018, former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram had tweeted about the high prices of tea at the Chennai Airport which caused many MP’s to debate about this topic in the parliament.

AAI has asked airport authorities to sell water and snacks at MRP at separate counters. However, these rules are not applicable to some of India’s biggest airports such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Kochi, as these airports are run by private companies.

According to an AAI official, the notice to start different counters was sent to airport authorities last month. The companies running the food courts have been asked to run a separate counter where they can sell selected items at affordable prices.

Today, air travel is not confined to the elite. With the success of the UDAN scheme and low budget airlines, air travel is accessible to people from all segments of the society. However, they have limited options when they have to pay a premium price for tea and snacks. These counters will surely bring them relief.

Airports in places like Pune and Shimla have already set up cheap food counters at their terminals but AAI is looking to make this a permanent norm at other airports across the country.

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