News for 'aircraft'

President Murmu to Fly in indigenous combat helicopter Prachand

President Murmu to Fly in indigenous combat helicopter Prachand

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

President Droupadi Murmu will fly in the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) 'Prachand' at the Jaisalmer Air Force Station. She will also attend the IAF's mega firepower demonstration 'Vayu Shakti' at the Pokhran Field Firing Range.

President Murmu Takes Sortie In Prachand

President Murmu Takes Sortie In Prachand

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

On February 27, President Droupadi Murmu undertook a sortie in the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter PRACHAND at Air Force Station Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

Will Iran Be Browbeaten By Trump's Threats?

Will Iran Be Browbeaten By Trump's Threats?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Far from it; the country's resistance to the US, its nuclear ambitions, and its pursuit of influence and proxies across the Middle East are driven by a constant search for independence and security. Thus, Iran will never capitulate. Trump will learn this home truth ultimately, and it is going to be a humbling personal experience that may even destroy his presidency, predicts Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Ajit Pawar plane crash: DGCA finds 'several lapses'

Ajit Pawar plane crash: DGCA finds 'several lapses'

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

Following a fatal plane crash in Baramati, the DGCA has grounded four aircraft belonging to VSR Ventures due to significant compliance lapses identified during a safety audit.

Nepal-bound flight returns to Bengaluru again, passengers protest

Nepal-bound flight returns to Bengaluru again, passengers protest

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Passengers traveling from Bengaluru to Kathmandu faced significant disruptions and protested at Kempegowda International Airport after their flight failed to land in Kathmandu on two consecutive days, leading to frustration and accusations of mismanagement by the airline.

IRIS Dena sinking: Navy sends Tarangini, Ikshak to assist Sri Lanka

IRIS Dena sinking: Navy sends Tarangini, Ikshak to assist Sri Lanka

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

The vessel sank on March 4, 2026, approximately 20 nautical miles west of Galle, after reportedly being struck by a torpedo from a United States submarine.

IndiGo's Profitability Under Pressure from Fuel, Rupee, and Geopolitical Headwinds

IndiGo's Profitability Under Pressure from Fuel, Rupee, and Geopolitical Headwinds

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo) is experiencing significant financial pressure, with its stock falling 18 per cent since the start of the Iran war, due to rising Brent crude prices, a weakening rupee, and disruptions to its West Asia and European flight networks caused by geopolitical tensions.

Airfares May Rise as Jet Fuel Price Surge

Airfares May Rise as Jet Fuel Price Surge

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices have more than doubled to a record high, impacting airlines and consumers, while commercial LPG rates also see a significant increase.

Day after Trump call, UK weighs 'Octopus' anti-drone shield in Gulf

Day after Trump call, UK weighs 'Octopus' anti-drone shield in Gulf

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

Specifically, military experts are assessing if the 'Octopus' interceptor anti-drone system, produced in the UK to support Ukraine in countering Russian threats, could be repurposed to strengthen British protections against Iran's Shahed drones.

Dubai-bound flight returns to Kochi after security concern

Dubai-bound flight returns to Kochi after security concern

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

An Emirates flight en route to Dubai from Kochi was compelled to return due to a security incident at Dubai International Airport, causing travel disruptions and raising security concerns.

Evacuate Now! Iran Warns Civilians in Neighbouring Gulf Countries

Evacuate Now! Iran Warns Civilians in Neighbouring Gulf Countries

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The IRGC accused US and Israeli forces of using civilians as 'human shields' and warned of continued attacks.

Punjab's Halwara Airport to Commence Flight Bookings in April, Boosting Connectivity

Punjab's Halwara Airport to Commence Flight Bookings in April, Boosting Connectivity

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Flight bookings for Halwara airport in Punjab are scheduled to begin in April, with the first commercial flight expected between May 10 and 15. The airport's opening is anticipated to significantly enhance air connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.

Iran Army chief vows to avenge attack on IRIS Dena

Iran Army chief vows to avenge attack on IRIS Dena

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Major General Amir Hatami, commander-in-chief of the Iranian Army, condemned the attack on the vessel, one of the country's newest warships, which occurred while it was returning from a military exercise.

Iran war could end in 2-3 weeks, says Trump

Iran war could end in 2-3 weeks, says Trump

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Despite President Trump's optimistic prediction of a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict with Iran, Tehran dismisses any possibility of diplomatic breakthroughs, citing deep distrust and highlighting the complexities of US-Iran relations.

President Witnesses IAF's Vayu Shakti

President Witnesses IAF's Vayu Shakti

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Vayu Shakti-2026 showcased the Indian Air Force's readiness for combat operations in both day and night conditions.

Ajit Pawar plane crash: AAIB flags low visibility, poor runway

Ajit Pawar plane crash: AAIB flags low visibility, poor runway

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Following a fatal Learjet crash, the AAIB is urging the DGCA to implement stricter standard operating procedures for Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flights at uncontrolled airfields to improve aviation safety in India.

The Clock In Islamabad Is Ticking. And The World Is Watching Anxiously...

The Clock In Islamabad Is Ticking. And The World Is Watching Anxiously...

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The delegations from the US and Iran head to Islamabad on Friday, carrying a ceasefire that is already fraying, a Strait that is technically open and practically closed, and a negotiating agenda that would challenge even parties actually negotiating in good faith, which these groups are not. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

War In The Strait Of Hormuz Has Landed On A Tawa In Mumbai

War In The Strait Of Hormuz Has Landed On A Tawa In Mumbai

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The LPG squeeze on India's restaurant sector is the quotidian face of a deeper crisis.

China commissions 3rd aircraft carrier: Should India worry?

China commissions 3rd aircraft carrier: Should India worry?

Rediff.com7 Nov 2025

China has commissioned its third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, featuring advanced electromagnetic catapults, amidst rising tensions and military modernization efforts.

Ajit Pawar Plane Crash: 'No Crew Would Crash A Plane'

Ajit Pawar Plane Crash: 'No Crew Would Crash A Plane'

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

'In any aviation emergency, the first rule is aviate -- fly the aircraft.' 'The fact that the commander's voice is not on the recording simply means he was focused entirely on flying. It does not imply anything more than that.'

Air ambulance from Ranchi to Delhi crashes, all 7 on board killed

Air ambulance from Ranchi to Delhi crashes, all 7 on board killed

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

The crash took place shortly after the aircraft operated by Redbird Airways Pvt Ltd took off from Ranchi airport at 7.11 pm.

Iranian drone strike causes fire at Saudi oil refinery

Iranian drone strike causes fire at Saudi oil refinery

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Falling debris from an intercepted Iranian drone caused a 'limited fire' at Saudi Aramco's Ras Tanura refining facility in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Defence Ministry spokesperson Turki Al-Maliki said, according to Al Arabiya.

Several US jets crash, fire at embassy compound: Kuwait

Several US jets crash, fire at embassy compound: Kuwait

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Kuwaiti Defence Ministry said all crew members of the crashed aircraft ejected safely and were taken to a hospital for medical check-ups.

Punjab Police and BSF Uncover Pakistan-Linked Drug Smuggling Operation

Punjab Police and BSF Uncover Pakistan-Linked Drug Smuggling Operation

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Punjab Police, in collaboration with the Border Security Force, dismantled a cross-border drug smuggling operation, arresting three individuals and seizing a significant quantity of heroin, cash, and a drone used for deliveries from Pakistan.

IRGC claims to hit US military base with missiles

IRGC claims to hit US military base with missiles

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The IRGC said five missiles were launched at 'the headquarters of the US Army at the Harir Air Base in Erbil, located in Iraq's Kurdistan Region'.

What Happens When Trump's Deadline Expires?

What Happens When Trump's Deadline Expires?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Trump may strike. He may announce productive talks and extend again. He may do both at the same time. Iran will not open the Strait on someone else's terms, so no matter what happens, that problem will remain unsolved. And the IRGC will still be collecting its $2 million toll from every ship bold enough to ask permission to pass.

Lavrov discusses Afghan-Pakistan tensions after strikes on Iran

Lavrov discusses Afghan-Pakistan tensions after strikes on Iran

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov discussed tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan with his Afghan counterpart, Amir Khan Mottaqi, following US-Israeli strikes on Iran, emphasising the need for political and diplomatic solutions.

NCP Leader Raises Concerns Over VSR Ventures' Account of Fatal Plane Crash

NCP Leader Raises Concerns Over VSR Ventures' Account of Fatal Plane Crash

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar has raised concerns about the statement given by VSR Ventures owner V K Singh to the Crime Investigation Department (CID) regarding the plane crash that killed former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and four others. Pawar questions whether Singh is attempting to blame the pilot for the accident.

913 Indians exit Iran through Armenia, Azerbaijan: MEA

913 Indians exit Iran through Armenia, Azerbaijan: MEA

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the number of Indians exiting Iran through Armenia and Azerbaijan has increased since the previous update.

Iran fires 'swarm of drones' at US-Israeli positions

Iran fires 'swarm of drones' at US-Israeli positions

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Earlier, another state media outlet showed a display of part of the IRGC's drone arsenal inside a large tunnel. Coinciding with the release of these visuals, the IRGC confirmed the launch of the 48th phase of its retaliatory campaign.

Noida International Airport Gears Up for Grand Opening

Noida International Airport Gears Up for Grand Opening

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Noida International Airport is set for its grand opening as roads are fixed and infrastructure preparations near completion. Here's what's ready and what to expect from the launch.

Bomb scare on IndiGo flight after threat note found in toilet

Bomb scare on IndiGo flight after threat note found in toilet

Rediff.com14 Feb 2026

A Shillong-bound aircraft was moved to an isolation bay at Kolkata airport after a handwritten note claiming a bomb was found, prompting a thorough search.

Boost For IAF: Free Hand On Weapons For 114 Rafales

Boost For IAF: Free Hand On Weapons For 114 Rafales

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

'The additional Rafales will be from a vastly improved version compared to the 36 acquired for the IAF under the 2016 deal.'

India-Russia to co-produce country's first passenger aircraft

India-Russia to co-produce country's first passenger aircraft

Rediff.com28 Oct 2025

India and Russia have agreed to jointly produce a twin-engine narrow-body passenger aircraft for short-haul flights, marking a significant step in their strategic ties. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and Russia's Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC) have signed an agreement for the production of SJ-100 aircraft in India.

Ajit Pawar's son Jay now demands probe into Baramati crash 'lapses'

Ajit Pawar's son Jay now demands probe into Baramati crash 'lapses'

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

Jay Pawar, son of the late Ajit Pawar, is seeking a thorough investigation into the plane crash that killed his father, citing possible serious lapses and demanding a ban on the aviation company involved.

Gulf War: Will Trump Strike A Deal With Iran?

Gulf War: Will Trump Strike A Deal With Iran?

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are actively pushing Trump to take the war to its bitter finish and 'erase' Iran's presence in the geopolitics of the region. Simply put, the two most powerful Sunni Arab oligarchies are on the same page as Israel. Such interference increases the risk of a breakdown in dialogue between the US and Iran, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

AI171 crash: Govt refutes media report blaming pilots

AI171 crash: Govt refutes media report blaming pilots

Rediff.com15 Feb 2026

Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol refutes a foreign media report regarding the Air India AI171 plane crash investigation, emphasizing that the probe is ongoing and trusting Indian agencies.

China hikes defence budget by 7% to $277 billion

China hikes defence budget by 7% to $277 billion

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

China's latest defence budget surges to $275 billion, fueling its ambitious military modernisation program and intensifying geopolitical dynamics in the region.

Op Sagar Bandhu: India deploys NDRF teams, aircraft to Ditwah-hit Lanka

Op Sagar Bandhu: India deploys NDRF teams, aircraft to Ditwah-hit Lanka

Rediff.com29 Nov 2025

"Operation Sagar Bandhu ' Humanitarian Assistance. In the wake of the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah across Sri Lanka, India swiftly launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to bolster relief efforts," the Indian Air Force said in a post on X on Saturday.

Will Trump Send Troops To Iran By The Weekend?

Will Trump Send Troops To Iran By The Weekend?

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Taking Kharg would give the US control over virtually all of Iran's oil exports and thus provide significant leverage, notes Prem Panicker in his must read daily blog on the Gulf War. It would also put American troops within range of Iran's remaining missiles, drones, and artillery on a piece of real estate that is just eight square miles in size, and just 15 miles from the Iranian mainland.