Aviation

India is considering a transformative change in its air travel refund framework, exploring a proposal that would allow passengers to recover up to 80% of their airfare even when cancelling tickets at the last minute. The initiative involves embedding a low-cost insurance component directly into ticket prices, ensuring that travelers do not need to purchase add-on coverage. The plan, which could take shape in the coming months, aims to bring predictability, fairness and consumer protection to a sector long criticized for opaque refund rules and steep penalties.

An Air India flight en route to Frankfurt made an emergency landing at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on Thursday morning after receiving a bomb threat midair. The aircraft, carrying over 250 passengers and crew, landed safely under high-security measures. The Delhi Police and aviation security teams swiftly initiated a full-scale investigation, conducting a comprehensive search of the aircraft and luggage.

India’s youngest airline, Akasa Air, is preparing to commence international operations from Delhi, marking a pivotal milestone in its rapid expansion journey. Following its successful debut on international routes from Mumbai, the airline now plans to connect the national capital with key destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The move underscores Akasa’s strategy to evolve from a domestic low-cost carrier into a globally competitive player, leveraging India’s growing air travel demand and expanding aviation infrastructure.

Flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in Delhi are progressively returning to normal following a period of disruptions caused by technical issues and adverse weather conditions. Airlines are resuming their scheduled departures and arrivals, while airport authorities have implemented contingency measures to ensure passenger safety and operational efficiency. Despite earlier delays and cancellations affecting hundreds of flights, traffic is stabilizing, and travelers are advised to check real-time flight updates.

Air India passengers faced significant check-in delays at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport after a technical glitch affected the airline’s systems, disrupting operations during peak travel hours. The outage reportedly impacted both domestic and international check-ins, leading to long queues and flight delays. While the airline confirmed that its teams were working swiftly to resolve the issue, passengers took to social media to express frustration over the disruption.

In a strategic move aimed at redefining luxury travel for Indian consumers, TIRUN Travel Marketing—the exclusive India representative of Royal Caribbean Cruises—has partnered with Air India to introduce exclusive fly-cruise holiday packages. The collaboration integrates international cruise experiences with seamless air connectivity, targeting India’s growing segment of affluent leisure travellers.

In a mixed development for consumers and industries alike, the government announced a hike in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices while simultaneously reducing domestic LPG cylinder rates, marking the latest round of monthly fuel price revisions. The contrasting adjustments reflect global crude market trends and domestic demand considerations. The ATF price increase is expected to raise operational costs for airlines, while the LPG rate cut will bring partial relief to households ahead of the festive season.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has appointed Vikram Singh as the new Airport Director of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI), Kolkata, one of the country’s busiest aviation hubs. With over three decades of experience in airport operations, Singh’s leadership is expected to strengthen infrastructure modernization, enhance passenger services, and streamline operational efficiency.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a comprehensive review after a power bank caught fire on a domestic flight, raising safety concerns over lithium-ion batteries in air travel. Authorities are assessing causes, regulatory compliance, and potential gaps in airline safety protocols. The incident underscores the risks associated with carrying electronic devices in passenger cabins and cargo. Aviation experts stress the importance of adhering to carriage guidelines and implementing preventive measures to mitigate fire hazards.

Delhi Airport’s Terminal 2 (T2) has officially reopened following an extensive renovation aimed at modernizing infrastructure, improving passenger flow, and enhancing overall travel experience. The upgrade includes expanded check-in areas, advanced baggage handling systems, upgraded lounges, and improved retail and dining facilities. Designed to accommodate increasing passenger volumes and streamline airport operations, the renovation aligns with India’s vision of world-class aviation infrastructure.