Emirates

Turkish Airlines To Soon Expand Its Operations In India!

Turkish Airlines is planning to expand its operations in India with direct flights to Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Amritsar and Bengaluru.

It is also planning to double its operations in Delhi & Mumbai. Regarding this, the airline has written a letter to the Civil Aviation Ministry.

Currently, the airline is flying directly from Istanbul to Mumbai and New Delhi along with hopping flights from the 2 Indian cities to Chennai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Amritsar.

While there is no clarity on when the deal is likely to materialise, news reports are saying that the negotiations between the ministry and the airline are on.

The airline has a fleet of 33 Boeing 777 aircraft, and three of those are 400 seaters which are being used for Indian routes. Turkish Airlines currently is flying 14 times a week and it wants to increase the frequency to 70 times a week.

Foreign tourist arrivals to Turkey from India increased by approximately 9 percent in 2017 to 86,996. In 2018, the number went up to 1,20,897.

With over 150 Indian-origin registered companies in Turkey as of 2016, bilateral trade between India and Turkey stood at $6.409 billion. With the New Istanbul international airport in “Arnavutköy” district, the trade possibilities will see a rise leading to more tourists to Turkey.

Turkey is also seen as a popular choice for weddings according to Mr. Karan Anand, Head-Relationships at Cox & Kings. He said that more than 200 Indian weddings have taken place in the past 2 years in Turkey.

These are opportunities that the national carrier does not want to miss out on, which is why they are planning to expand their operations.

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10 Things You Can Get For Free On An International Flight!

The competition in the airline industry has increased a lot recently and this has helped customers in return. Flights have become cheaper than before and Airlines are offering a variety of services to the flyer.

Some of these services include free stuff that is being provided to make our long air travel easy.

So, go ahead and enjoy these free services that you can get when you fly with an International Airline

1.Basic Medical Facilities

This is an important service, which is mandatory for airlines to provide, by law. All commercial airlines have bandages for minor cuts, painkillers, antacids and other medical kit items.

So, in case you feel sick contact any member of the crew to get assistance. The crew is also well trained to tackle such situations and can help you.

You don’t need to worry during a medical emergency. All you need to do is to reach out to the crew.

2.Extra Snacks & Seconds

The small packets of snacks always leave us wanting for more. There is a common misconception that if you had your snacks once, you can’t have them again.

The good news is that you can ask for it the second time as well!

The flight crew will be more than happy to serve you with extra snacks, but they can do it only when they are done serving snacks to all the passengers.

The chances of having extra snacks increase at late night flights because many passengers avoid munching at that time.

3.Kid’s Essentials

Airlines care about their little flyers and do their best to keep babies and Kids at ease.

Many airlines provide parents with facilities like kid’s diapers, reheating the baby’s bottle or food, and baby bassinets for an infant.

The crew members are trained for short-term babysitting, which can be availed by parents during tiring moments on a flight.

4.Grooming kits

Airlines know the importance of looking sharp.

That’s why most of them are equipped with grooming accessories like hairbrushes, combs, toothbrushes, socks, shaving items, mouthwash, and moisturizers.

So, in case, you forget any of these items, ask the crew politely and avail the facility.

5.Cockpit Tours

This may seem a bit confusing, given the security inside an airplane cockpit, but if you ask, many pilots are more than willing to give mini cockpit tours before or after the flight.

The best time for a visit is usually after a flight has landed, since that’s when pilots tend not to be as rushed.

Many pilots love to get visitors, especially wide-eyed children. It makes their day to have the chance to show off their office.

6.Sanitizing Wipes/Tissues

The stream of passengers passing through airplanes each day turns tray tables, armrests, and entertainment-system buttons into germ factories.

If you’d like to clean your area before settling in, ask a flight attendant for a few sanitizing wipes. They often have them on hand, though it’s not something most passengers know they can ask for.

7.Water Bottle Refills

If onboard supplies allow it, flight attendants are usually willing to refill your empty bottle of water for you.

Since passengers who carry their own water bottles must empty them before going through security at the airport, this added service can come in extra handy for the hydration-conscious.

8.Help Switching Seats

Have a seat assignment that’s got you sitting far from a travel companion?

Flight attendants are often willing to help negotiate seat switches so you can sit together. They can help if there’s time, so if you’re going to ask for help, do it soon after boarding.

They may ask you to wait until everyone has taken their seats (or until you’re at cruising altitude), but it’s better to have your polite request on their mind for whenever they have a second.

9.Alcohol

Cheers! Most airlines offer free alcoholic beverages in first and business class and a selection of free wine/beer on international flights.

So if you need something to calm your nerves down at 30000 feet or just want to kick back and relax on your seat, don’t hesitate to go for that extra pint of beer, cause its free!

10.Wing Pins For Kids

Most airlines have cut free food and snacks for adults and kids, but many still offer little flyers wing pins to commemorate their flight.

Not all flights will have them, but there’s no harm in asking. Usually, flight attendants have them stashed somewhere in the cabin itself.

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Airlines May Soon Be Ranked On The Basis Of Customer Feedback!

India citizens may soon rank its airlines based on the quality of service they provide to flyers. If this concept is implemented it will be the first country in the world to do so.

The quality will be determined by the ratio of passengers flying with a particular airline and the number of complaints registered against it.

Aviation Minister, Mr. Suresh Prabhu, said this on Monday while launching an upgraded version of the ministry’s aviation portal “Air Seva 2.0”, which promises to make registration of grievances and their redressal faster.

According to Mr. Prabhu, the ministry with the help of the portal will categorise airlines. For this, they will take the help of Quality Council Of India to determine the parameters for ranking airlines.

Airlines ranked lower will have to work to improve their standings as passengers will choose the airlines which are more customer friendly. This way the overall service from airlines is bound to improve.

Mr. Prabhu and his deputy in the ministry, Mr. Jayant Sinha, have always been very proactive on social media. They say that their social media accounts are flooded with complaints from various flyers across the country which made them think about a more systematic process for registering grievances and redressing them.

The next version of the portal, “Air Seva 3.0”, will be launched in a couple of months. It will allow passengers to register for Digi-Yatra, which offers paperless boarding for domestic passengers.

It will kick off in Bangalore and Hyderabad by February, followed by Varanasi, Kolkata, Pune and Vijayawada some months later. Other airports will soon follow suit.

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Lion Air Under Investigation After Last Week’s Airplane Crash!

Last week, an unfortunate disaster hit Indonesia, where a Lion Air crashed plunged into the Java Sea just minutes after taking off from Jakarta, killing all 189 onboard.

Authorities are conducting a review of the operations of Lion Air, as the search for the main wreckage and cockpit voice recorder of the crashed Boeing jet continues into the seventh day.

The “special audit” will cover the standard operating procedures of the airline, the flight crew qualifications and coordination with industry stakeholders.

Indonesia’s aviation ministry is coordinating with institutions such as the European Union, the International Civil Aviation Organization and the Federal Aviation Administration. Corrective steps will be taken on the basis of the review.

The government had already ordered a review of Lion’s repair and maintenance unit and suspended several managers after the airline had reported some technical issues a day before the crash.

Even after a week-long search involving dozens of ships and hundreds of specialists, the plane’s main wreckage and the cockpit voice recorder that’s key to unravelling the mystery, are yet to be recovered.

However, search crews have recovered a flight data recorder, both the engines, a part of the landing gear, body parts of victims and personal belongings since the flight carrying 189 people plummeted into the sea.

Indonesia’s National Transportation Safety Committee recovered about 69 hours of flying data from the flight data recorder. The agency will begin analyzing the information from Monday to find out the reasons for the crash.

The Lion Air crash is the worst airline disaster in Indonesia since 1997, when 234 people died on a Garuda flight near Medan. In December 2014, an AirAsia flight from Surabaya to Singapore plunged into the sea, killing all 162 on board.

Indonesian airlines were barred in 2007 from flying to Europe because of safety concerns, though several were allowed to resume services in the following years.

 

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Cathay Pacific Airways Has Suffered The Biggest Airline Data Breach Ever!

Hong Kong based, Cathay Pacific Airways has become the target of the world’s biggest airline data breach after a hacker accessed credit card, passport and personal details of around 9.4 million customers.

The airline came to know about this breach while conducting online security processes. But, they reported this incident on Thursday, almost 7 months after the hack was done.

While passports, addresses and emails were exposed, flight safety wasn’t compromised and there was no evidence that information has been misused, however, there are still no details revealing the origin of the attack.

Cathay Pacific has said the data stolen included names, nationalities, birth dates, phone numbers, addresses, passport, identity card numbers and expired credit card numbers, among other information & said no passwords were compromised. They have been contacting customers to advise them on how to protect themselves.

Cathay’s CEO, Mr. Rupert Hogg has released an apology statement saying that they are sorry for any inconvenience that may be caused due to this data breach. The statement also said that the airline acted immediately to contain the event, commence a thorough investigation with the assistance of a leading cybersecurity firm, and further strengthened their  IT security measures.

Hong Kong’s privacy commissioner expressed serious concern over the leak and said the office will initiate a compliance check with the airline. A dedicated website, infosecurity.cathaypacific.com, provides information about the event and what affected passengers should do next.

Some local lawmakers criticized Cathay for taking seven months to reveal the breach. Lam Cheuk-ting, a member of the Legislative Council’s security committee, told reporters that many people in Hong Kong are angry and the airline should’ve taken the initiative the very first day it found out.

Cathay’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Mr.Paul Loo said the airline wanted to have an accurate grasp of the situation and didn’t wish to “create unnecessary panic”.

Impacting more people than the population of Cathay Pacific’s home base of Hong Kong, the hack is in another league as compared to breaches reported by British Airways and Delta Air Lines Inc. this year.

Upon the release of this news, the shares of Cathay Pacific plummeted by almost 6.8 %, causing the airline’s market value to drop by $361 million.

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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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17 Airlines Keen To Operate From Kannur International Airport In Kerala!

According to the Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, 11 international and 6 national airlines have expressed their willingness to conduct services from Kannur International Airport.

The international airlines include Emirates, Etihad, Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Saudia, Silk Air, Air Asia and Malindo Air. Domestic carriers such as Air India, Air India Express, Jet Airways, Indigo, SpiceJet and Go Air will operate out of Kannur International Airport.

Mr Vijayan was speaking at the annual public meeting of the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, where other issues related to the Kannur airport were also discussed.

Here are the key points from the meeting-

  • Authorities are planning to increase the length of Kannur airport’s runway from 3050 meters to 4000 meters. The formalities of acquisition of lands are in progress. The CM said that Kannur Airport will become the largest airport in Kerala.
  • The Kerala police will have the temporary responsibility of immigration. Air India Services Limited and Celebi Ground Handling have the responsibility of ground handling services.
  • Construction of terminal building and arranging facilities inside terminal have been completed.
  • Monti Carlo Limited has been given Rs 113 Crore to construct the International Air Cargo Complex, 4 storeyed airport office building, 5 storeyed CISF residence building and the approaching roads to the airport. They have also been given the task of lighting and decorating the airport.
  • 29 people in the families who lost houses when the government acquired lands were appointed in different positions. The remaining people in this category will be appointed through Air India ITSL, ground/cargo handling agency of the airport.
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Air India Pilots Avoid Crisis Situation At New York’s JFK Airport!

On 11th September 2018, pilots of the Air India’s flight AI-101, from Delhi to New York, were caught in a nightmarish situation. Multiple system failures, bad weather conditions and low fuel made it a struggle for the pilots which were supposed to land the airplane in New York’s JFK Airport.

The flight was in a very bad situation however, the two pilots and an Air Traffic Control (ATC) operator were able to overcome this situation and saved the lives of 370 passengers onboard.

Here are all the details about the incident:

  • Air India’s Senior Commander Mr. Rustom Palia and Second-in-Command, Captain Sushant Singh, reported to the ATC operator at JFK Airport that the flight experienced multiple system failure while approaching the airport for landing.
  • Apart from these, the flight also witnessed the malfunctioning of all three of its Instrument Landing System (ILS) receivers on board. This meant that the pilot of the aircraft needed to manually land the flight.
  • They had to abort landing at JFK and spent close to one and a half hours in the air, trying to figure out to land at an airport in New York or a nearby city with good visibility.
  • Running low on fuel, they quickly needed a decent chance of sighting a runway early enough to make approach due to the failed ILS.
  • After help from the ATC tower operator they weighed various options to solve that situation and decided to land at Newark Airport.
  • The AI pilots skillfully managed to land the airplane safely, 38 minutes after hovering over JFK Airport.

According to reports, the Air India’s B777 aircraft had flown over 36,985 hours and had been in service for almost 9 years. While the incident was transpiring, there was panic among passengers as the aircraft managed to land.

A pilot can fly an aircraft without the onboard navigation system, however, the accuracy often suffers.

Mr Palia and Mr. Singh defied all the odds and used their experience and skills, with the help of the ATC operator, to avoid a disaster situation and saved the lives of all passengers.

Air India has set up an inquiry on aircraft and constituted an internal inquiry under the airline’s ‘Flight Safety Department’.

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