Aviation Insider

Articles giving aviation insights

New International Terminal At Hyderabad Airport To Open On 23rd October!

All international flight departures will take place from the Interim International Departures Terminal (IIDT) at Hyderabad Airport starting Tuesday, 10.30am onwards.

Airport authorities have released a press release , asking passengers to check with their respective airlines about their flight schedule, before they leave for the airport.

Passengers booked on Air India’s international flights AI 127, AI 952, AI 978, AI 988, AI 966 & AI 051 and travelling to domestic destinations ,also have to report to IIDT.

The IIDT is located adjacent to the Haj terminal and can be accessed from both Shamshabad and Srisailam sides of the airport’s main approach road.

Signage with directions to IIDT have been placed starting from the airport approach road. A dedicated free shuttle service has been arranged between the existing terminal and IIDT. It will be available at the arrivals ramp and will operate at regular intervals.

The IIDT is 2 km from the main terminal, and transit between the two takes about five minutes. Volunteers have been deployed at the parking spots and entrance to help the passengers for the first few days to avoid confusion.

The new terminal, which was launched on 10th October, is said to be equipped with new technologies including India’s first remote hand baggage screening facility.

Together with the new automatic tray retrieval system at hand baggage screening, will help security do conduct their baggage checks much faster, plus it will also help passengers since it will reduce their waiting time in the security line.

In case of any query, passengers have been advised to contact the following helpline numbers: 040-66546370; 040-66606660

 

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Government To Only Allow Data Services On Airplanes For Now!

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is planning to allow only data/internet services aboard flights within India in the initial rollout of In-Flight Connectivity scheme.

Voice services have been put on a hold for now on account of some technical issues.

The DoT is likely to approach the Law Ministry next week for the review of these guidelines before notifying them. It could take around two weeks for the Ministry to sanction these guidelines.

They have held meetings with telecom operators and airlines, some of whom have shown interest to offer these services.

Once the licenses are rolled out, the carriers and telecom companies will reportedly have to bid to acquire the license for the service they want to push out.

While mobile phone use will still be restricted during take-off and landing, the Telecom Commission has approved lifting the ban on the use of mobile phones and internet services at cruising altitudes.

While it is still too early for a definite pricing structure for in-flight connectivity, it is anticipated that the cost of installing this will cost the airlines a lot.

Each aircraft would require an investment of about $1 million. The airplane will also have to be grounded for at least 10 days to retrofit the aircraft with the technology. In current circumstances, this revamping may not come across as very welcoming.

Globally, many airlines are offering Wi-Fi for passengers, but they have to switch off the facility when they enter Indian airspace. AirAsia, Air France, British Airways, Egypt Air, Emirates, Air New Zealand, Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways and Virgin Atlantic are among the 30 airlines who have to do this.

Indian carriers have been advocating internet services on flights as it would result in add-on revenues and bring them at par with international flights.

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Airport Authorities To Set Up “DigiYatra” Kiosks At City Centers!

There is some good news for air travellers who want to make the use of Government’s “DigiYatra” initiative.

Air passengers who want to gain hassle-free and smooth access to airports will soon be able to verify their Digi Yatra ID at city centers & common marketplaces.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation is planning to set up kiosks at various city centers, Indian Railways stations and at other crowded places where passengers can verify the Digi Yatra ID.

These kiosks will help passengers verify their identity at the city centers and walk straight to the departure terminal.

To start using their DigiYatra ID at the kiosks, passengers will be required to undergo a one-time verification process to ensure that the ID is original.

According to an Airports Authority Of India (AAI) official, multiple checkpoints and separate facilities will be created by the AAI at crowded tourist areas, where the frequency of air travellers will be more.

Passengers travelling via air can get themselves an ID under the DigiYatra by providing details like their name, e-mail ID, mobile number and details of one approved identity proof. This ID can be then shared by the travellers while booking tickets. The airline company will then share the information, along with the Digi Yatra ID.

Passengers with a DigiYatra ID will have to undergo a one-time facial verification during his/her first travel. This verification will take place at the departure terminal of the airport. A security official or an airport authority will be present during the verification, in order to ensure that the traveller is not using a fake ID.

One the verification is completed successfully, the passenger’s facial biometric will be captured and stored in his/her DigiYatra ID profile. So the next time the passenger travels, their face will act as a boarding pass and they can complete their airport journey without ever taking out a ticket or ID proof.

If the passenger has chosen Aadhaar as an ID proof for creating the Digi Yatra ID, their verification will be valid for five years, else it will be valid for one year only.

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Tata Group In Talks To Buy Stake In ‘Struggling’ Jet Airways!

India’s largest business conglomerate, Tata Group, has held preliminary talks on Thursday to buy a large stake in debt-ridden Jet Airways Ltd.

Jet Airways has been unable to pay salaries to its pilots and employees on time plus have defaulted on a lot of payments.

Mr. Naresh Goyal, Founder of Jet Airways, has sought equity collaboration, however, Tata Sons, the parent company of the $103 million conglomerate, is looking for management control.

Several points like management rights and future role of Mr. Goyal is causing hindrances in the negotiations, but both the companies are exploring ways to agree on a common ground.

Tata Group is interested to buy at least a 26 percent stake in Jet, which would trigger an open offer of an additional 26 percent from Jet’s shareholders. What this means is that if Tata acquires the 26% stake, they will have an option to further buy 26 % stake from the shareholders later on, giving it total control over the Airline’s management.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, which holds a 24 percent stake in Jet Airways, made a $35 million “cash pre-purchase payment” to help out the airline in financial troubles. However, Etihad Airways may sell a part or all of its stake in Jet Airways if the Tata Group comes into the picture.

Tata Sons chairman Mr. N Chandrasekaran has pushed the company’s aviation business through mergers and acquisitions. Currently, Tata has two aviation joint ventures, one with Singapore Airlines operating Vistara and the other with Air Asia.

With Tata’s investing heavily in the airline business it’s no surprise that they have gone with this decision to acquire Jet Airways.

Speculation is that former IndiGo president Mr. Aditya Ghosh, who is acting as an advisor to Tata Trust’s ‘Cancer Care Initiative’, may eventually pilot Tata’s aviation business. Only time will tell what’s the future of Jet Airways!

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South India’s 1st “Airport Radio” Launched At Hyderabad Airport!

Passengers flying to/from Hyderabad Airport will now be greeted with music!

GMR  Hyderabad International Airport Ltd(GHAIL), the operator of the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, has launched an Airport Radio in collaboration with Radio Mirchi.

‘Mirchi Airport Radio’, which is South India’s first Airport Radio, has been launched under GHIAL’s signature #PassengerIsPrime programme.

According to a press release by GHIAL, Mirchi Airport Radio is a 24×7 custom-produced, exclusive airport radio, creating a melodious theme to enhance the travel experience of the passengers at the airport.

According to the CEO of GHAIL, Mr. S.G.K Kishore, the concept of airport radio is one of GHIAL’s many initiatives to improve the passenger experience. He hopes that the passengers will enjoy this welcoming and melodious feature that the Airport offers during their travel.

The airport and Radio Mirchi have co-curated the popular and chart-busting musical numbers with a mix of film and non-film (albums) in Telugu and Hindi languages.

Hyderabad International Airport handles over 55,000 passengers on a daily basis. Typically a passenger stays at the airport from 15 minutes to 3 hours depending on his/her travel.

Airport radio – Mirchi Hyd will offer the passengers a musical treat across the 1.2 lakh square metre expanse of the terminal building and delight them.

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4-Day Dussehra Festivities Kick-Start At Bengaluru Airport!

Bengaluru Airport is all set to dazzle passengers this festive season!

Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru kickstarted its four-day cultural extravaganza to celebrate the spirit of Dussehra on Monday.

Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), who operate KIA, in association with the Department of Kannada and Culture as well as the government of Karnataka, are organizing this event.

They have organized this gala event to showcase the rich cultural heritage of South India, with music and dance performances. It was a treat for the global audience transiting through the Airport.

Here are all the details about the event:

  • TM Vijay Bhaskar, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka, inaugurated the show.
  • The festivities kicked off with a stimulating performance by award-winning Hindustani Classical vocalist Smt. Sangeeta Katti.
  • This was followed by a dazzling ‘Mohiniattam’ performance by Smt. Sreelekha, one of the earliest employees of BIAL.
  • The final show of the day was a one-hour classical dance performance by Vidhwan Ashok and his team.

During the course of these 4 days, a special Dussehra/Dasara food menu will be available inside the Terminal for passengers, to add flavour to the festivities.

Passengers can also experience a Dasara-themed virtual reality game with Ravana as the main protagonist. Passengers, who play the game and win, will be given gift vouchers that can be redeemed at select outlets at the Airport. A crystal ‘Rangoli’ has been created especially for the festivities.

The next three days promise to be exciting, as several renowned classical and folk artists will captivate the visitors and passengers at the Bengaluru Airport between 6.00 pm and 8.30 pm.

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Top 10 Richest Airlines In The World!

We all can agree that flying has somewhat become cheaper than it used to be, thanks to, low-cost carriers which dominate aviation markets around the world.

But then there are some airlines which may seem expensive but offer some world class services to its guests.

In fact, a few airlines go as far as offering showers, spas and playing areas to their passengers cause they can afford to.

We did some digging around and found out which are the 10 richest airlines in the world which provide luxurious services like Healthy Meals, Seat Comfort, Spa, Shower, Cabin Staff Service etc.

1.Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is the richest airline service in the world.

Its fleet comprises of one of the most modern aircrafts out there, which provide the best of everything, from comfort to entertainment, as compared to any other airline.

Surprisingly, it hasn’t been in this business for that long but still stands at the number one position of richest airlines in the world.

It’s one of the youngest airlines holding a lot of awards and recognitions from Skytrax and other corporations.

Qatar Airways ensures the comfort, safety of its passengers and provides healthy meals. They do this by providing specially cooked meals made by onboard chefs and provide a luxurious experience with there comfortable seats and inflight facilities.

2.Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airline is the second richest airline in the world after Qatar Airways.

The airline is known to provide spacious and luxurious airplanes so that their guest can travel in peace.

In fact, it is regarded as the best airline in Asia based on the awards it has got and customer reviews. It has won many awards such as “Best Airline In Asia”, “Best airline cabin crew”, “Best first class” and many more.

It has a fleet size of 105 aircraft, which includes the Airbus A380, the largest passenger airplane in the world.

3.Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Airlines have been named “Airline Of The Year” on 4 occasions and there is a good reason for that.

Its first class ticket costs $31000 however, it’s completely worth it, due the facilities and luxuries provided to its customers.

The airline is a member of the global airline alliance and has a fleet of 150 airplanes which fly to 200 destinations throughout the world.

In 2017, the airline was awarded with “The Best Premium Economy Class” by Skytrax.

4.Turkish Airlines

It is one of the best airlines in the world in terms of services and amenities provided, be it in the economy class or first class cabin.

Their airplanes have a children’s playroom, library, billiards room, and teleconference rooms. This luxurious airline is very comfortable which provides its passengers with massage beds and showers sections.

The airline has received numerous accolades which include the best airline in south Europe from 2009 to 2016, the best airline in Europe for 5 consecutive times and best business class lounge in 2015.

This airline is valued at more than $3 billion.

5.Emirates

The airline was founded in the year 1985, starting initially with just 2 aircraft, but now it has a vast fleet of about 230 aircraft flying to over 140 sites including 80 countries.

It was considered the richest airline in the world before Qatar Airways took over.

It has received more than 500 international awards, one of which is the “Best Inflight-Entertainment” award, which they have won for the past 12 consecutive years.

It is currently the largest and the best airline in the Middle-East.

6.Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways is the national airline of United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The airlines commenced operations in 2003 and currently has a fleet size of 126 airplanes which fly to more than 116 destinations around the world.

It has a workforce of more than 20000 people and operates a 1000 flights per week.

In fact, it has received the Best Airline in the world award in 2016, amongst many accolades.

7.All Nippon Airways(ANA)

The first-class ticket of this airline costs anywhere between $6500 to $7500 due to its extra seat cushioning, comforts and amenities.

The Japanese airline was founded in 1952 and is ranked as the 7th richest airline in the world.

It’s the only Japan-based airline which has been given a 5-star rating for the past 4 consecutive years.

The airline has a fleet of 221 airplanes and has the best cabin crew in the world, which provide quality customer care services.

8.Eva Air

Eva Air is the second largest airline in Taiwan which flies over 60 international destinations in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

It is famous for its customer service and cabin crew all around the world.

The airline is one of the eight airlines in the world who have got a 5-star rating. The airline is currently the best when it comes to Business class seats.

9.Garuda Indonesia

The Indonesian airline, which was on the verge of shutting down due to financial issues, is among the top 10 richest airlines in the world.

It is rated as 5 star by Skytrax for the world-class services and facilities it provides to its clients.

The Garuda Indonesia Airline has been the winner of ‘world’s best cabin crew’ as well as ‘world’s best economy class airline’ award.

It is also known as the “Best Regional Airline In The World”, which flies to 40 domestic and 36 international destinations.

10.Qantas

Founded in 1920, Qantas is the 3rd oldest airline in the world which flies to many international destinations and airports.

It is Australia’s best airline and has won many international awards for its world-class facilities and services it provides to its customers.

In fact, the airline was awarded the ‘Best Premium Economy Airline’ and “Airline Excellence Award” in 2015.

The above-mentioned airlines are also the best airlines in the world in terms of cabin crew services based on Skytrax ratings. So before you fly with an airline, it is important to check its Skytrax rating.

There are currently only 8 airlines in the world who have been provided with a 5 star Skytrax rating. Airlines with a 3 or more star rating are known to provide a pleasant flight experience

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SpiceJet Will Soon Offer Free Inflight Wi-Fi!

Low-cost airlines in India aren’t particularly known for their inflight services.

To keep costs low, free snacks don’t exist and in-flight entertainment is no more than a magazine, half of which is full of advertisements

However, all that is soon about to change!

In a bid to grow its popularity, SpiceJet will be the first airline in India to offer free in-flight Wi-Fi when it is cleared by the government.

Normally, airlines charge a fee for providing the service. SpiceJet will not charge passengers for the inflight internet but they will cover their costs by charging advertisers for pop-up ads.

India’s regulatory policy continues to ban inflight internet in the country. Even international flights entering Indian airspace must switch off their systems.

However, in May 2018, Telecom Commission – the highest policy-making body of the Department of Telecommunication, had approved the proposal for allowing internet inside flights. Airlines are expecting all the other necessary approvals to be completed by November.

The wi-fi will be available in SpiceJet’s new Boeing 737 Max, for which they have tied up with “Immarsat”, a mobile satellite service communication provider who will fit the aircraft with Satcom (Satellite Communication) antennas.

SpiceJet’s strategy to offer free inflight wi-fi is in tandem with its strategy to blur the lines between low-cost and full-service airlines. In the past few months, the airline has launched onboard entertainment, has revamped its loyalty programme. It will also retrofit its aircraft with USB charging points.

According to Mr. Ajay Singh, Chief Managing Director of SpiceJet, In India, you cannot define a low-cost airline by the service provided. Airlines like SpiceJet are low-cost carriers because the cost of operations is low.

He went on to say that if they can use those savings from the cost to better customer experience, it will obviously work in their favour.

SpiceJet will join the club of a handful of carriers providing inflight wi-fi for free. Among global carriers, JetBlue, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines provide wi-fi as free.

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