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Delhi Airport Goes Green To Combat Pollution!

AirWhizzJun 05, 2018 No Comments

Delhi Airport Goes Green To Combat Pollution!

Aviation Insider

Delhi has had a reputation of being one of the most polluted cities in India, however, the Delhi Airport is combating this situation and is making things easier for passengers at the airport.

Instead of opting for expensive air purifiers, Delhi Airport has put 35000 air purifying plants which can naturally clean the air form basic pollutants.

Here are all the details of this ‘Green’ initiative–

  • Nearly 3.9 million square feet of area within the Delhi Airport has been covered by air purifying plants and shrubs.
  • To purify the air naturally, a mix of different foliage and flowering trees has been used.
  • Plants such as Cassia Fistula, Asltonia Scholaris, Spider Plants, Snake Plants, Golden Pothos, Weeping fig, Jacaranda Mimosifolia and Bamboo Palm have been planted.
  • Each plant type serves a specific purpose, for example, Spider Plants purify the air of Carbon Monoxide and Benzene, while Weeping Fig filters out pollutants from carpets and furniture.
  • The airport plans to add thousands of plants every year and want to keep this green initiative going.

Delhi International Airport Limited(DIAL) said that they have been working towards reducing adverse pollution impacts by taking such initiatives. They have also said that various authorities will be monitoring the air quality within the airport.

Currently, Delhi Airport is the 7Th busiest airport in Asia and the 20Th busiest airport in the world. This Green initiative will surely make things easier for international and domestic passengers travelling to the national capital and will help them breath clean & fresh air within the airport after a long flight.

Experts say that using such plants will have a lot of benefits in the long run. It will moderate the temperature, reduce pollution and prevent wastage of water within the airport. In addition to purifying air, these plants will surely enhance the beauty of the airport.

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Everything You Need To Know About Airline Baggage Rules In India!

AirWhizzJun 04, 2018 No Comments

Everything You Need To Know About Airline Baggage Rules In India!

Travel Like a Pro

Air travel In India has grown exponentially, and in recent years airlines have started cashing in on this.

Airlines have started charging a fee to bring extra luggage on flights.

With baggage fee rules becoming more complex and the fees getting expensive, It can be quite a task to keep a track of hand baggage sizes and weights for each airline.

To help you understand this, here is everything you need to know about baggage policies that most airlines follow.

Check-In Baggage

A)Baggage Allowance Rules

In line with international regulations, your baggage allowances will either be set by how many pieces or the total weight of luggage you can travel with.

The rules depend on where you’re travelling to.

1.Weight Concept

Passengers travelling from India to Far East(Except Japan)/Southeast Asia and Gulf/Middle East countries are allowed free baggage allowances based on the weight of the baggage and the class they are travelling in.

Usually, a passenger is allowed to carry up to –

  • 40 Kgs of check-in baggage in First Class
  • 30 Kgs of check-in baggage in Business Class
  • 20 Kgs of check-in baggage in Economy Class
2.Piece Concept

Under this concept, the airline allows free baggage allowance based on how many pieces of luggage you can travel with, its maximum weight and dimension.

Here are the rules-

  • A person can get 2 pieces of luggage checked-in for free.
  • Each bag has a weight limit of 32kgs
  • The total of all dimensions (Length, Breadth &Height) of each bag cannot be more than 158cm (62 inches)

Airlines that fly from India to Europe, North America, South America , Australia & Africa follow these rules for free baggage allowance.

B) Excess Baggage

Airlines charge you Excess-Baggage fees if your check-in luggage weight exceeds the limit. There is no standard price for excess luggage and it’s up to the airline to set the prices.

  • You will have to pay anywhere between Rs 300 to Rs 500 per kg for domestic flights.
  • You will have to pay anywhere between Rs 500 to Rs 800 per kg for International flights
  • There is no cap on the number of bags you can check-in, but their combined weight should be below the limit.

You do have an option to pay less for excess baggage. If you join different membership programs offered by airlines, you can carry more luggage with you without paying any fee.

For example, If you are a ‘GOLD’ or ‘MAHARJAH’ member of Air India’s “Flying Returns” program you can carry 20 kg of extra luggage with you.

Carry-on Baggage

A)Baggage Allowance Rules

With the growing emphasis on airline safety worldwide and to avoid overcrowding of overhead bins in the cabin, airlines are becoming stringent with rules regarding carry-on baggage.

Here are the rules for Carry-on baggage in India

  • Most airlines allow only 1 piece of hand baggage per person.
  • You can carry anywhere between 7-8 kgs of hand baggage, depending on the airline.
  • The length, breadth & height of the bag have to be less than 55x35x25 centimeters respectively and the overall total of the dimensions should not be more than 115 cm.
B) Excess Baggage

As mentioned above, most airlines only allow one piece of hand baggage per person, however, some airlines allow you to carry more than one bag depending on the weight dimensions and airline rules.

In addition to your carry-on bag, you can bring along the following items-

  • Handbag
  • Laptop bag
  • Rug/Blanket
  • Camera Bag
  • Collapsible wheelchair
  • Walking Sticks
  • Umbrella
  • Infant’s Carry Basket
  • Duty-Free Items (carry the invoice)

Airlines such as SpiceJet And IndiGo charge you a fee of Rs 350 – Rs 400  if the combined weight of the items mentioned above and your carry-on luggage is more than 8 kgs.

Special Baggage

If your luggage is not of the standard size & weight and if it requires special handling then you might have to pay more depending on the airline. These type of items are called Out Of Gauge (OOG) baggage.

OOG baggage is the luggage that is very heavy, too large, very light, fragile, does not have at least 1 flat surface or can damage or slow down the baggage handling management system.

Baggage that is outside the standard dimensions for airport luggage and cannot be sorted out by normal conveyor belts come under this category.

Here are a few examples –

  • Sports Equipment
  • Flat Screen Television
  • Extra Large Carpets or Blankets
  • Musical Instruments

So, if you want to know more about your airline’s baggage policy, look no further. Simply download the AirWhizz App to get information regarding different airline policies/regulations to plan your trip on the move and Fly Stress-Free!

*Please note that all weights, prices and specifications mentioned here are only indicative. They are meant to give you a general idea of baggage policies. For the actual price and baggage allowance details please refer to your ticket or the rules of the airline you are flying with.

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Hundreds Of Passengers Stranded At Mumbai Airport After Flight Delays!

AirWhizzJun 04, 2018 No Comments

Hundreds Of Passengers Stranded At Mumbai Airport After Flight Delays!

Aviation Insider

A series of flight delays at the Mumbai Airport, on Sunday, left hundreds of passengers stranded, which resulted in a huge ruckus.

Here are the details of the flights that got delayed!

Jet Airways

158 passengers of Ahmedabad bound Jet Airways flight 9W-2314 were stuck at the airport after the flight failed to take off at the scheduled time.

The passengers were told by the cabin crew that the flight did not take off because the Ahmedabad airport was closed.

However, the Ahmedabad Airport Director had given a statement saying that a NOTAM(Notice To Airmen) was issued for runway maintenance work from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. but the Jet Airways aircraft had been given permission to land.

It was discovered later that the Jet Airways flight had a technical fault in the aircraft which caused the delay.

Air India

Air India Flight AI 625 got delayed for 6 hours which left hundreds of passengers fuming at the Mumbai Airport.

The Lucknow bound flight was supposed to depart from Mumbai at 8:30 a.m. and arrive in Lucknow by 10:30 a.m. However, the flight could not take off till 2.30 in the afternoon.

According to one of the passengers, it felt like a hostage situation and were stuck at the boarding counter without food, water or any kind of answer from the airline officials.

The passenger also said that officials kept avoiding them and the ground staff was very rude. A few people got agitated and started protesting. The CISF had to come in and handle the situation.

The airline has not given any official statement as to why the flight was delayed.

Several other flights including those of GoAir And Qatar Airways were delayed by short intervals and diverted as Mumbai witnessed its first Pre- Monsoon showers on Saturday.

So, If you want to know whether your flight has been delayed due to bad weather, look no further. Simply download the AirWhizz App to get real-time flight and weather updates on your phone to plan your trip on the move and Fly Stress-Free!

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Singapore Airlines Will Re-Launch The World’s Longest Flight!

AirWhizzJun 02, 2018 No Comments

Singapore Airlines Will Re-Launch The World’s Longest Flight!

Aviation Insider

Singapore Airlines announced this week that they will relaunch the world’s longest flight, from Singapore to New York, in October.

Here are all the details about it –

  • The airline will fly from Singapore’s Changi International Airport to the Newark Liberty International Airport in New York.
  • The aircraft will cover a distance of 16,700 Km in 19 hours, making it the longest flight, by duration, in the world.
  • Singapore Airlines will use the long-range Airbus A350 – 900ULR for this route. The airline has ordered 7 of these airplanes with the first one arriving in September and the rest 6 by end of this year.
  • This aircraft is configured to carry 161 passengers with 67 seats in Business Class and 94 seats in Premium Economy. This flight does not have an Economy Class.
  • The airline will launch their flights on this route from 11th October 2018.

Till 2013, the airline used to regularly operate its flights to Newark Airport but had to stop owing to the rising fuel costs, which made flying their previous jets, Airbus A340 – A550, uneconomical. Since then it has flown to JFK Airport in New York via Frankfurt.

Currently, the record for the longest flight is held by Qatar Airways Flight 921 from Auckland to Doha, which takes 17 hours 40 minutes.

With no economy class on this flight, the airline is looking to tap into the premium market and wants to promote their brand amongst wealthy customers. The airline has said that they have plans of flying non-stop from Singapore to Los Angeles using the same airplane.

This decision will help Singapore Airlines fetch more revenue, since long-haul flights often make more cash than flights with more than one stop and make a mark in the highly competitive international aviation market.

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10 Things To Bring Along On A Long-Haul Flight!

AirWhizzJun 01, 2018 No Comments

10 Things To Bring Along On A Long-Haul Flight!

Travel Like a Pro

In recent years, travelling by air has become really comfortable and the flight crew does their best to keep it that way. But, travelling for long hours, especially on international flights, can get boring and tiring at times.

Long-haul flights are a test of endurance, whether you are a frequent flyer or are new to air travel.

But If you are well prepared and know what to take with you onboard, it can make a whole world of difference to your flying experience.

To help get you through a long flight comfortably, we have come up with a list of 10 essential items you must have with you onboard.

NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES

Airlines these days make sure that there is minimum noise in the airplane cabin, but if you are a light sleeper, noise cancelling headphones can make it easier for you to sleep on the flight.

Also, headphones that the airlines provide are not that great when it comes to quality.

So, if you are going to spend several hours on a flight, might as well get a good pair of headphones to enjoy in-flight entertainment and help you doze off.

MINI TOILETRY BAG

If you’re travelling on an overnight flight, make sure you pack a small pouch of toiletries in your carry-on bag.

These days you get travel sized disposable toothbrush, hand sanitizer, toothpaste and dry shampoo spray so go ahead and take advantage of them when you fly.

SLEEPING GEAR

If you’re on a long-haul flight and want to avoid jet lag when you reach your destination, you’ll need to get some sleep.

Pack an eye mask and bring a travel pillow along with you.

You’ll be able to doze off easily with them and the constant chatter in the cabin or your neighbour’s reading light will not affect you.

TRAVEL WALLET

Use a travel wallet to organize and store all your important documents in one place.

They are deep enough and have various pockets to fit your cash, tickets, immigration forms, ID and passports.

Plus, it’s easier to pull out the whole wallet rather than looking around for different documents in your bag.

SNACKS

The food that is served on flights can make you feel bloated and feeling uncomfortable especially on a long-haul flight.

Fruits, salads, mixed nuts and vegetable sandwiches are all good options to bring on your flight.

Munch on some healthy homemade snacks while you watch an in-flight movie and skip the bland airplane meals!

Here are some tips on How To Eat Healthy When You Fly!

ENTERTAINMENT

It’s going to be a long flight, so prepare yourself to fill every hour with some form of entertainment.

Download some movies, songs, TV series or video games on your mobile or tablet before you leave as backup, in case you get bored of in-flight entertainment!

It will keep you entertained when you are done sleeping and will also keep you alert during the flight.

BOOKS/MAGAZINES

Bring at least one book or a magazine with you!

It will be useful when your airplane is landing/taking off or when you need a break from your device’s screen.

Also, it’s a good option to keep a backup if your tablet’s battery dies.

WIPES/TISSUES

Airplane lavatories are covered with germs and it’s easy to catch an infection.

Make sure that you pack some bleach wipes or sanitized tissues for your long trip.

Also, one more advantage of packing them is that it eliminates the need for liquids in the carry-on, they are easy to carry and don’t leak or spill in your bag.

MEDICINE KIT

Carry a small medical kit with you, regardless of whether it’s a long flight or not.

Dehydration can cause a headache, cabin pressure can trigger sinus problems, the lack of proper cleaning can set off dust allergies and strange food might give you stomach issues.

Be prepared for every situation and pack the medicines you think you will need or consult your family doctor.

*Remember carry only over the counter unprescribed medicines and check whether the destination you are flying to allows them.

SCARF

Avoid using airplane blankets and carry a long scarf.

All seasoned travelers carry scarves with them because they can be used as blankets when your airplane’s AC is at full blast.

Also, make sure you dress comfortably overall, since you will be in the same clothes during the flight and wearing loose clothing in the airplane will help you sleep better.

So, the next time you fly and are looking for travel accessories, headphones, sleeping gear or just a nice book to read, download the AirWhizz App. Avail exclusive discounts on Swiss Military accessories as an app user and get information about airport shops and their location on the move.

Have a comfortable flight and Fly Stress-Free!

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No Bids For Air India As Deadline Expires!

AirWhizzJun 01, 2018 No Comments

No Bids For Air India As Deadline Expires!

Aviation Insider

The government’s plan to sell Air India has come to an unfortunate end as no buyers have shown interest in the national carrier.

The Civil Aviation Ministry published a tweet at 5 p.m. yesterday, saying that transaction advisors (Ernst & Young) have informed them that they have not received a response to the Expression of Interest (EoI) for the disinvestment for Air India.

Civil Aviation Secretary, Mr. R N Choubey, had released a statement saying that the May 31st deadline set by the government will not be extended and was confident that they will receive bids for the airline.

The deadline for potential buyers to submit a response was extended from 14th May 2018 to 31st May 2018.

Here are some of the reasons that may have put off potential buyers –

  • The new buyer would have had to take over 61 percent (or Rs 33,392 crore) of the debt burden.
  • They would have had to accommodate Air India’s 27000 strong-workforce.
  • The Government would have retained 24% stake in the airline.
  • A rise in crude oil prices globally.
  • The general elections being held in 2019.

Industry experts have said that the government needs to tweak its terms of sale if they want the airline to be privatized, however, with only a few months left to the general elections, the possibility of that happening is looking bleak. They have also said that offering the entire equity would be a wiser option as private players want no government intervention.

The government will take Inputs from Ernst & Young on what went wrong and will decide what further action has to be taken.

They will also discuss the airline’s expansion plan about adding more airplanes and routes to their network, which were put on hold due to the planned disinvestment.

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IndiGo Increases Airfare On Domestic Routes To Counter Rising Oil Prices!

AirWhizzMay 31, 2018 No Comments

IndiGo Increases Airfare On Domestic Routes To Counter Rising Oil Prices!

Aviation Insider

In a bid to cater to rising oil prices, IndiGo will increase the fuel surcharge on flight tickets for domestic routes. This will increase air ticket prices and it is speculated that other airlines may follow IndiGo’s footsteps.

The cost of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) has increased by 30% in the past 1 year and it was just a matter of time, that airlines passed on this burden to passengers. IndiGo is the first domestic airline to do so.

Here are the details of the price hike –

  • IndiGo flight tickets will carry a fuel surcharge of Rs 200 for a short flight, covering a distance of 1000 Km and below.
  • Flights on longer routes, which cover more than 1000 Km, will carry a fuel surcharge of Rs 400 per passenger.

To make things clearer, you will be charged Rs 400 for fuel on a return flight ticket from Delhi-Chandigarh and Rs 800 on a return flight ticket from Delhi-Mumbai.

In addition to fuel charges, a passenger pays a CUTE(Common Use Terminal Equipment) charge of Rs 50, Rs 200 for the Regional Connectivity Scheme(RCS) provision and Rs 153 for Passenger Service Fee along with airport development fee and taxes on a flight ticket.

All this, along with an increase in fuel charge, will surely affect passengers and their holiday plans.

According to Mr. Sanjay Kumar, IndiGo’s Chief Commercial Officer, ATF prices in India have increased by 25 % in the last month, which is the highest in the last 3 years and the airline has no other option but to pass on some of its increased cost burden to the passengers. He also said that the airline is confident that this marginal increase in ticket prices will not affect the demand.

ATF accounts for 45% of the total operating cost of an airline. With Indigo being the first airline to make this move, others may follow them and aviation experts are saying that airlines in India may increase their ticket prices by 15%.

With people gearing up for summer vacations, the timing of this decision could not have been worse. People who were looking forward to booking last minute tickets to holiday destinations within India will be very disappointed.  However, this decision will not affect those who have booked their flight tickets well in advance.

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Vistara’s AI Robot “RADA”, Will Soon Assist Passengers At The Delhi Airport!

AirWhizzMay 30, 2018 No Comments

Vistara’s AI Robot “RADA”, Will Soon Assist Passengers At The Delhi Airport!

Aviation Insider

Starting from July 2018, passengers travelling with Vistara will be assisted by an Artificially Intelligent robot at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in New Delhi.

Vistara, which is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, has developed a robot to help their passengers, address queries and entertain them before boarding a flight.

Here are all the details about the robot –

  • Vistara has named the AI robot ‘RADA’.
  • The robot will be installed in the ‘Vistara Signature Lounge’ at Delhi Airport’s Terminal 3 from 5th July 2018.
  • It is the first AI robot in India to be deployed at an airport to assist passengers.
  • It is built on the chassis of 4 wheels, which enables it to rotate 360 degrees and has 3 inbuilt cameras to help it interact with customers at the lounge.
  • ‘RADA’ is capable of scanning boarding passes, giving information about terminals & departure gates, real-time flight updates, weather conditions and different products. It also tells passengers about the services offered by Vistara.
  • It will use basic hand movements to greet the passengers entering the lounge and will move around on a predefined path.
  • It is also capable of entertaining kids and adults by playing games, videos and songs.
  • Over a period of time, the AI robot will be developed in terms of functionality and features based on customer feedback.
  • The airline claims that it is one of the most economical AI robots in India, which is completely made from components manufactured within the country.

‘RADA’ has been developed under Vistara’s ‘Innovation Initiative’. It has been designed and engineered by experts from the TATA Innovation Lab with the help of students from reputed institutions.

According to Mr Ravinder Pal Singh, Vistara’s Chief Information and Innovation Officer, the idea behind this concept was to build a simple and extremely cost-effective robot which is capable of basic human interaction to start with. He also said that the robot will further be developed to perform more complex tasks to handle the evolving passenger habits in this technological age.

With this innovation, Vistara will surely enhance its customer’s experience and will further strengthen its hold in the domestic aviation market.

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