News for 'India Airlines'

Iran, Saudi reach out to India, Pak for de-escalation

Iran, Saudi reach out to India, Pak for de-escalation

Rediff.com26 Apr 2025

As tensions escalated between India and Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, Iran reached out to both countries, urging de-escalation. Saudi Arabia also expressed concern, with its foreign minister engaging in phone conversations with his Indian and Pakistani counterparts. Iran's foreign minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, emphasized the importance of bilateral relations, stating Tehran's willingness to "forge greater understanding" at this critical time. Saudi Arabia's foreign minister, Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, spoke with both India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistan's Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. Amidst heightened tensions, India has taken a series of punitive measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and downgrading diplomatic ties. Pakistan responded by shutting its airspace to Indian airliners and suspending all trade. Both countries exchanged warnings, with Pakistan emphasizing its commitment to "respond firmly to any aggression."

AI to discontinue flight number '171' after Ahmedabad tragedy

AI to discontinue flight number '171' after Ahmedabad tragedy

Rediff.com14 Jun 2025

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft that went down soon after take-off was operating the flight 'AI 171' from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick.

Singapore Airlines confirms Vistara-Air India merger discussions

Singapore Airlines confirms Vistara-Air India merger discussions

Rediff.com14 Oct 2022

Singapore Airlines (SIA) is engaged in confidential talks with Tata Sons for merging Vistara with Air India, the flagship carrier of the Republic of Singapore informed the stock exchange in the Southeast Asian nation on Thursday in a first acknowledgement of a possible integration of the two airlines. "In line with its multi-hub strategy, SIA is currently in confidential discussions with the Tatas to explore a potential transaction in relation to the securities of Vistara and Air India. "The discussions seek to deepen the existing partnership between SIA and Tatas and may include a potential integration of Vistara and Air India," SIA said in a notification to the Singapore stock exchange. SIA owns 49 per cent stake in Vistara and is among the four airlines run by Tata Group.

'I Would Like To Die On The Cricket Field'

'I Would Like To Die On The Cricket Field'

Rediff.com25 Sep 2025

'We all make mistakes, but what is important is that you've got to get that out of your mind before the next ball commences.' K R Nayar recalls his many encounters with Dickie Bird, the legendary cricket umpire who passed into the ages this week.

'How Can You Condemn Dreamliner For One Accident?'

'How Can You Condemn Dreamliner For One Accident?'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2025

'Look at the number of flights the aircraft has done. Look at the number of airlines which are using it.'

'Bomb threat': Hyderabad-bound flight forced to make a U-turn

'Bomb threat': Hyderabad-bound flight forced to make a U-turn

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

In Hyderabad, airport sources on Monday said, "A bomb threat email targeting Lufthansa flight LH 752 was received at the Hyderabad airport at 18:01 hrs on 15th June 2025."

India's BPO Industry Gets AI Makeover

India's BPO Industry Gets AI Makeover

Rediff.com29 May 2025

Call centres, once the engine room of India's BPO exports, are evolving too. Depending on the complexity, 30 to 50 per cent of voice and chat volumes are now handled by conversational AI.

Rakesh Gangwal, family trust sell 5.7% stake in IndiGo for Rs 11,385 crore

Rakesh Gangwal, family trust sell 5.7% stake in IndiGo for Rs 11,385 crore

Rediff.com27 May 2025

InterGlobe Aviation promoter Rakesh Gangwal and his family trust on Tuesday sold a 5.7 per cent stake in the airline for about Rs 11,385 crore ($1.33 billion) through a block deal, according to sources. Apart from Gangwal, the Chinkerpoo Family Trust, whose trustees are Shobha Gangwal and JP Morgan Trust Company of Delaware, has also participated in the transaction for divesting its stake in IndiGo, the country's largest airline, the sources said.

India: Airlines lose Rs 2,444 cr in 2007-08

India: Airlines lose Rs 2,444 cr in 2007-08

Rediff.com30 Jul 2009

Kingfisher Red topped the list of loss-makers with Rs 79,8.34 crore (Rs 7.98 billion).

Srinagar Airfares Drop After Govt Intervention

Srinagar Airfares Drop After Govt Intervention

Rediff.com25 Apr 2025

Airlines waive cancellation and rescheduling fees and boost flight capacity from Srinagar.

India briefs foreign envoys on Pahalgam attack for 2nd straight day

India briefs foreign envoys on Pahalgam attack for 2nd straight day

Rediff.com26 Apr 2025

India briefed envoys of around 45 nations on the Pahalgam terror attack and its link to cross-border terrorism. The envoys were briefed in two batches by senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). India also announced punitive measures against Pakistan, including expulsion of Pakistani military attaches, suspension of the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 and immediate shutting down of the Attari land-transit post. Pakistan responded by shutting its airspace to all Indian airlines and suspending trade with New Delhi.

US urges India, Pak to ease tensions; seeks Sharif's help in Pahalgam probe

US urges India, Pak to ease tensions; seeks Sharif's help in Pahalgam probe

Rediff.com1 May 2025

The phone conversation came amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan over the April 22 terror attack that killed 26 civilians.

A Hopeful Mother Waits In Uttarakhand

A Hopeful Mother Waits In Uttarakhand

Rediff.com7 Aug 2025

Glimpses from India and around the world that will make you smile and cry.

Ahmedabad airport resumes ops after tragic plane crash

Ahmedabad airport resumes ops after tragic plane crash

Rediff.com12 Jun 2025

Flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, which were suspended earlier following the crash of a Gatwick (London)-bound Air India Boeing 787-8, have now commenced with limited flights, the private airport operator said.

The Malayalee Who Captained UAE's Cricket Team

The Malayalee Who Captained UAE's Cricket Team

Rediff.com5 Sep 2025

C P Rizwan led the UAE to its first win in a T20 World Cup match, played 42 ODIs and 18 T20Is before he retired this week. 'I end my international career with a heavy heart, but I feel proud of what I have achieved,' Rizwan tells K R Nayar.

Tata Group announces Rs 1 cr compensation for families of crash victims

Tata Group announces Rs 1 cr compensation for families of crash victims

Rediff.com12 Jun 2025

In the message posted by Tata Group on X, he also said the group will cover the medical expenses of those injured and ensure that they receive all necessary care and support.

Flight tickets to be cheaper this Holi

Flight tickets to be cheaper this Holi

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

With only a few days to go before the country celebrates Holi, several airline companies offered discounts on fares on the occasion of the festival of colours. While two airlines are providing discounts on both domestic and international networks, another has the offer only for the domestic sector. Low-cost airline Akasa Air said it is offering an all-inclusive one-way fare starting at Rs 1,499 on domestic routes.

India revokes Pak visas; asks citizens to return from Pak immediately

India revokes Pak visas; asks citizens to return from Pak immediately

Rediff.com24 Apr 2025

India has revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals effective April 27, advised Indian nationals in Pakistan to return home, and suspended visa services to Pakistani nationals. The move comes in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people and alleged cross-border links to the attack. This escalation follows India's previous actions against Pakistan, including expelling Pakistani military attaches, suspending the Indus Water Treaty, and shutting down the Attari land-transit post.

Air India will increase its global coverage: CEO Wilson

Air India will increase its global coverage: CEO Wilson

Rediff.com1 Jan 2025

Air India has covered a lot of ground since privatisation and its global coverage will further increase in the years ahead, the airline's chief Campbell Wilson said on Wednesday. He also said the interior refit of the single-aisle fleet, serving domestic and short-haul international destinations, is underway, and will be completed by mid-2025.

Curbing air access is like shooting yourself in foot: Emirates president

Curbing air access is like shooting yourself in foot: Emirates president

Rediff.com9 Jun 2025

Restricting air access to foreign carriers by not granting them more bilateral rights is akin to shooting yourself in the foot, as air transport is a wealth multiplier for India's economy, Emirates President Tim Clark said during a press conference held on the sidelines of the annual general meeting of the International Air Transport Association.

Border residents clear bunkers as India-Pak tension rises

Border residents clear bunkers as India-Pak tension rises

Rediff.com26 Apr 2025

Villagers living near the International Border and Line of Control in Jammu are on high alert following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, preparing underground bunkers and accelerating crop harvesting. The incident has heightened security concerns despite a renewed ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan in 2021. Residents are demanding swift action against the perpetrators and their handlers.

$150 Million Insurance Claims Loom After AI 171 Crash

$150 Million Insurance Claims Loom After AI 171 Crash

Rediff.com23 Jun 2025

The claims will include three kinds of liabilities: Damage to the aircraft; loss of lives who were aboard the aircraft; including the crew members; and third-party liability because of loss of lives where the aircraft crashed; and cargo liability.

Air India-Vistara Merger: What You Must Know

Air India-Vistara Merger: What You Must Know

Rediff.com26 Oct 2024

From November 12, Vistara aircraft will be operated under Air India's banner, identifiable by a special four-digit flight code beginning with '2'. For example, flight UK 955 will become AI 2955, making it easier for customers to recognise when booking on airindia.com after this date.

Lalit Modi, Vijay Mallya's Karaoke Duet Goes Viral

Lalit Modi, Vijay Mallya's Karaoke Duet Goes Viral

Rediff.com5 Jul 2025

The Instagram video has drawn significant attention due to the controversial backgrounds of both Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya.

The India Story: 90% Work In Progress

The India Story: 90% Work In Progress

Rediff.com2 Jan 2025

From highways connecting once-remote regions to aviation networks carrying millions, India's infrastructure story is one of transformation.

Pakistan extends airspace closure for Indian flights till June 24

Pakistan extends airspace closure for Indian flights till June 24

Rediff.com23 May 2025

Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace for Indian flights until June 24, 2025, citing the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) rules that restrict such closures for a month at a time. The ban, which was first imposed in May after the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, applies to all Indian-registered, operated, owned, or leased aircraft, including military aircraft. The decision comes after an IndiGo pilot requested permission to briefly use Pakistani airspace to avoid turbulence during a hailstorm, but the request was rejected.

Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch postponed

Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch postponed

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

The renaming of the trophy is an ode to two living legends England pacer James Anderson and Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

Delhi-bound AI Dreamliner returns to Hong Kong 1 hour after takeoff

Delhi-bound AI Dreamliner returns to Hong Kong 1 hour after takeoff

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

The flight had departed after a delay of almost 3.5 hours as its scheduled departure was at 8.50 am, as per flight tracking website flightradar24.com.

'In Those 10 Seconds, Something Very Critical Happened'

'In Those 10 Seconds, Something Very Critical Happened'

Rediff.com24 Jun 2025

'In those 10 seconds, they even made a MAYDAY call -- which is only issued in case of a serious, imminent emergency.'

AI Crash Report Raises More Questions: Pilots

AI Crash Report Raises More Questions: Pilots

Rediff.com14 Jul 2025

Pilot groups have accused the AAIB of portraying the pilots as responsible for the incident, with vague and selective presentation of cockpit conversations.

From Russia With Love

From Russia With Love

Rediff.com10 Oct 2025

Red Square and VDNKh easily rank among the most striking places I've visited -- both for their historical significance and architectural splendour.
My admiration for Russian culture, vision and ambition grew with every step as I clocked the miles, Nitin Sathe tells us after a visit to Moscow and St Petersburg.

'Travel Is Only Thing You Buy That Makes You Richer'

'Travel Is Only Thing You Buy That Makes You Richer'

Rediff.com8 Jul 2025

To see the happiness on their faces that only a travel experience can bring is priceless.

DGCA audit reveals major lapses in flight safety

DGCA audit reveals major lapses in flight safety

Rediff.com25 Jun 2025

Aviation watchdog Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday said surveillance conducted at major airports revealed several defects in the aviation ecosystem, including multiple cases wherein the defects reappeared on aircraft and centre line marking faded on runway.

Polybags clogged toilets: Why Air India flight returned to Chicago

Polybags clogged toilets: Why Air India flight returned to Chicago

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

Days after its Delhi-bound aircraft returned to Chicago due to unserviceable lavatories, Air India on Monday said its probe found that polythene bags, rags, and clothes had been flushed down and were stuck in the plumbing.

'No Sane Pilot Would Shut Off Fuel'

'No Sane Pilot Would Shut Off Fuel'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2025

'In multi-pilot operations, no critical switch can be moved without the other pilot's consent.'

Airspace coordination in India helps airlines save big

Airspace coordination in India helps airlines save big

Rediff.com6 May 2022

Coordination between defence and civilian authorities has freed up airspace for commercial airlines in India, resulting in routes becoming shorter and costs coming down, apart from mitigating pollution. "Due to various restrictions of the military, only about 58 per cent of the Indian airspace was being utilised. It is close to 70 per cent now," said an official of the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Officials of the AAI said to date 119 routes had been shortened. Sources said since December 2020 the cumulative savings of airlines had been close to Rs 200 crore while there was a reduction in emission of around 45,000 tonnes of carbon.

Red alert in Mumbai as roads flooded, rail, air traffic hit

Red alert in Mumbai as roads flooded, rail, air traffic hit

Rediff.com18 Aug 2025

Mumbaikars woke up to very heavy rainfall on Monday, while the India meteorological department (IMD) issued a 'red' alert, forecasting extremely heavy rains at isolated places in the city and adjoining areas, prompting the civic body to declare a holiday for schools and colleges, officials said.

What Air India Plans For Its Crews

What Air India Plans For Its Crews

Rediff.com4 Oct 2024

Some of the proposed policies have been welcomed by pilots and cabin crew, while others have sparked criticism.

Hailstorm horror: IndiGo pilot's request to use Pak airspace rejected

Hailstorm horror: IndiGo pilot's request to use Pak airspace rejected

Rediff.com22 May 2025

An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Srinagar encountered severe turbulence after a sudden hailstorm. The pilot requested permission from Lahore Air Traffic Control to use Pakistani airspace to avoid the turbulence, but the request was rejected. The flight, carrying over 220 passengers, including Trinamool Congress MPs, landed safely at Srinagar Airport. The incident is being investigated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Why Vacation Costs Are On The Rise

Why Vacation Costs Are On The Rise

Rediff.com8 Jul 2025

The primary drivers: Geopolitical disruptions inflating fuel and operational costs, and a surge in travel demand.