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New Delhi, India: Indian airports may soon face financial penalties for service lapses such as baggage delays, long queues, and unhygienic toilets. The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) has issued a consultation paper proposing to link airport tariffs including user development fees (UDF) with measurable service quality standards. The draft framework applies to airports handling more than 3.5 million passengers annually. It sets benchmarks for maximum wait times at terminal entry points, check-in counters, security screening, immigration desks, and baggage belts. Failure to meet these standards could result in reduced tariffs, while airports exceeding them may receive incentives. AERA’s proposal also focuses on the upkeep of basic passenger facilities, including clean washrooms, seating, and trolleys. Adoption of technology, such as Digi Yatra and immigration e-gates, is part of the criteria aimed at improving efficiency and passenger experience. “Introducing a structured service quality framework will ensure passengers receive consistent and improved service levels across major airports,” AERA said in the consultation paper. Independent third-party audits will be carried out to verify compliance, and performance data will be published to maintain transparency. Airports handling over six million passengers annually will be placed in a separate category, recognizing their higher traffic volumes and operational complexity. AERA has invited comments from stakeholders, including airlines and passenger groups, until September 24, 2025.

Airports

AERA Proposes Baggage Delays, Dirty Toilets May Soon Cost Airports in Fee Reductions

September 17, 2025

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Dutch flag carrier KLM will cancel dozens of flights on Wednesday, September 17, as ground staff at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport prepare for a four-hour strike. The work stoppage, announced by trade unions FNV and CNV, will take place between 08:00 and 12:00 local time (CEST) and is expected to cause significant disruption to operations at one of Europe’s busiest hubs. The strike affects employees responsible for critical ground operations such as baggage handling, towing aircraft, and assisting passengers. Schiphol Airport has warned travelers to brace for delays, cancellations, or changes to their flights, advising passengers to closely monitor flight status before heading to the airport. KLM confirmed that it has already cancelled dozens of flights ahead of the strike to limit the scale of disruption. According to a report in NL Times, the airline has proactively adjusted its schedule after a similar action last week, when a two-hour strike led to the cancellation of over 100 flights and affected nearly 27,000 passengers. Unions representing the workers say the industrial action stems from disputes over wages, workload, and job classifications. They argue that ground staff perform heavy physical tasks but receive lower pay compared to other airport roles. “These workers keep Schiphol running under difficult conditions, yet they are not fairly rewarded,” union representatives stated. The strike is part of a broader wave of labor unrest at European airports, as aviation workers push for higher wages amid rising operational costs and inflationary pressures. With Schiphol serving as a major intercontinental hub, the disruption is expected to ripple across connecting flights throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. Passengers flying on or around September 17 are strongly advised to check their flight status directly with KLM or via Schiphol’s website and consider flexible travel arrangements where possible.

Airlines

KLM to Cancel Dozens of Flights Due to Schiphol Ground Staff Strike Over Pay

September 16, 2025

New Delhi, India: SpiceJet, one of India’s leading low-cost carriers, has once again delayed salary payments for a significant portion of its workforce, According to the report by PTI senior employees who are earning above ₹55,000 per month are affected. While junior staff reportedly received their August salaries on time, senior employees, including Assistant Managers and above, are facing delays of up to 15 days, according to company sources. The airline has cited a “phased disbursement schedule” as the reason for the delay, stating that payments for higher-earning employees are staggered during lean periods. The delays affect a substantial number of employees, with the airline employing 6,484 staff, of whom 4,894 are permanent employees. Reports suggest that the salary delays predominantly impact employees in managerial and senior technical roles. These delays come at a time when the airline is navigating financial pressures, including a net loss of ₹238 crore reported in the June quarter of 2025. During 2024-25, SpiceJet provided an interest-free advance to Ajay Singh, who is the Chairman and Managing Director, an amount of Rs 32 crore for a five-year period in accordance with the Nomination and Remuneration Committee and board-approved policy of the company, as per the annual report. "The company has adjusted the advance from the salary of subsequent months (April and May 2025), as per the company's policy. Further, this advance is not prejudicial to the interest of the company," the report said. The Airline said that losses are mainly due to costs linked to several grounded aircrafts and expenses for bringing them back into service. It has only 21 aircraft operational out of 56 and 35 grounded. Employees impacted by the delayed payments have expressed concerns over financial planning, especially as the delayed salaries coincide with ongoing personal and household obligations. While junior employees received their payments on schedule, the staggered payments for senior staff have raised questions about employee morale and retention. Last September, the airline raised ₹3,000 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP), with plans to use the funds to operationalize grounded aircraft, purchase new planes, invest in technology, and enter new markets. Despite these intentions, progress has been slow, and a substantial number of aircraft remain grounded.

Airlines

SpiceJet Delays Senior Staff Salaries Amid Financial Strain and Operational Challenges

September 16, 2025

Washington, United States: The U.S. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a civil penalty of $3.1 million against Boeing for what it described as “widespread quality system violations” linked to the company’s 737 production line. The enforcement action covers violations identified between September 2023 and February 2024 at Boeing’s Renton, Washington facility and at Spirit AeroSystems’ plant in Wichita, Kansas. According to the FAA, Boeing presented two aircraft as airworthy for certification even though they did not meet all applicable safety requirements, and in some cases pressured employees to approve work to meet production deadlines. “The safety of the flying public is our top priority, and we will hold Boeing accountable for meeting regulatory standards,” the FAA said in a statement, noting that Boeing has 30 days to respond to the proposed penalty. The proposed fine comes months after a highly publicized incident in January 2024 when a door plug panel blew off an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 shortly after takeoff, forcing an emergency landing. One flight attendant and 7 passengers received minor injuries, the captain, the first officer, 3 flight attendants, and 164 passengers were uninjured and the airplane sustained substantial damage. The event triggered a temporary grounding of MAX 9 jets and intensified scrutiny of Boeing’s quality control processes. A detailed FAA investigation uncovered hundreds of quality lapses, including incomplete documentation, improper inspections, and non-compliant parts. The agency also flagged systemic problems within Boeing’s Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) program, which allows company employees to perform certain certification tasks on behalf of the FAA. Boeing, in its response, said it is reviewing the FAA’s notice and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening quality oversight,“We have implemented a comprehensive safety and quality improvement plan, including expanded employee training and enhanced supplier oversight,” a Boeing spokesperson said, adding that the company will continue cooperating with regulators. Boeing has until mid-October to formally respond, after which the FAA could negotiate a settlement or pursue enforcement proceedings. Alongside the regulatory action the FAA has approved Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) Phase 2D for Boeing’s 777-9 model, advancing the aircraft’s certification process. This phase includes community noise tests to be carried out in Glasgow, Montana. So far, the 777X test fleet (including the 777-9) has logged over 1,500 flights and nearly 4,200 flight hours. The next major step TIA Phase 3 will include evaluations of the auxiliary power unit (APU) performance and overall stability, although a start date for Phase 3 has not yet been announced. The 777-9 is currently expected to be delivered first to Lufthansa in mid-2026.

Boeing

FAA Slaps Boeing With $3.1M Penalty for Over Safety Lapses in 737 Production

September 15, 2025

Spain, Europe: Ryanair has announced plans to reduce an additional 1 million seats from its Spanish flight schedule for the summer of 2026, citing increased airport charges as the primary reason for the cuts. This move comes after previous reductions totaling 2 million seats across the summer 2025 and upcoming winter season, affecting mainly regional airports and destinations in the Canary Islands. The airline’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, criticized Spanish airport operator Aena’s decision to raise passenger charges by 6.5% starting March 2026. O’Leary warned that if regional Spanish airport costs remain high, Ryanair may redirect flights to alternative destinations such as Italy, Morocco, Croatia, and Albania, where operational costs are lower. O’Leary emphasized that the airline’s operational strategy prioritizes profitability and cost efficiency, and high airport fees could make certain Spanish routes financially unviable. “We will continue to operate in markets where costs are reasonable. If charges remain high, we will adjust our schedule accordingly,” he said. The Spanish government and Aena have publicly criticized Ryanair’s stance, labeling the airline’s threat of seat reductions as an attempt at “blackmail” and “extortion.” Aena defended the fee increases as necessary for maintaining airport infrastructure and service quality. Officials stressed that these fees are essential to support the growing passenger traffic and investments at regional airports. Ryanair's actions could impact tourism in the affected regions, with potential implications for regional economies dependent on international and domestic travel. Passengers are advised to monitor airline schedules closely and consider alternative carriers for summer 2026 travel.

Airlines

Ryanair to Slash 1 Million Seats from Spain Flights Next Summer Over Fee Hike

September 15, 2025

Manitoba, Canada: Four people are dead and a young pilot is seriously injured after a float plane crashed in a remote area roughly 40 kilometres south of St. Theresa Point First Nation, Manitoba, on Saturday evening. Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said the single-engine de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver went down near Makepeace Lake while carrying five people. All four passengers, two men aged 53 and 49 and two women who both were 50 were residents of St. Theresa Point First Nation and died at the scene. The 20-year-old pilot, the sole survivor, sustained serious injuries but is expected to recover. Authorities confirmed he was airlifted to hospital after being located by rescue teams in difficult nighttime conditions. The crash site was located after RCMP received an alert from an iPhone satellite crash-detection system. Due to the fly-in nature of the community, officers chartered a helicopter to reach the scene. The lone RCMP officer was dropped about 500 metres away because of darkness and rough terrain and had to hike to the wreckage. Search and rescue technicians from CFB Trenton were parachuted in to assist, providing medical support and helping stabilize the survivor until evacuation was possible. “This was an extremely challenging operation because of the remote location, darkness, and limited access,” RCMP spokespersons said in a statement, adding that the collaboration between emergency services was critical in saving the pilot’s life. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has confirmed it is gathering information about the crash to determine whether a full investigation will be launched. The cause of the accident has not yet been established. St. Theresa Point Chief and Council have not yet released a statement but community members are mourning the loss of four residents in what is being described as a devastating blow to the First Nation. In a statement on Facebook, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs sent condolences to the families of the victims, and to their community. "We grieve with you. The loss of community members in such a sudden and devastating way is felt across all our Nations. In this time of heartbreak, we stand with St. Theresa Point, holding up the families and community in prayer, love, and strength," the post said. Authorities said updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding the cause of the crash and the identities of those killed.

Aircraft Crashes

Four Killed, 20-Year-Old Pilot Seriously Injured in Manitoba Float Plane Crash

September 15, 2025

Los Angeles, United States: Southwest Airlines Flight 1394, a Boeing 737-700, safely diverted to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) after experiencing an engine failure shortly after departing Hollywood Burbank Airport on the morning of September 11, 2025. The flight was en route to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport when the issue occurred. According to the airline, the flight crew promptly identified the mechanical issue and executed an emergency diversion to LAX, where the aircraft landed safely at approximately 8:15 a.m. local time. There were no injuries reported among the passengers or crew, and the aircraft taxied to a gate without further incident. Southwest Airlines confirmed that all passengers were accommodated on alternate flights to reach their intended destination. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the engine failure to determine the cause and ensure compliance with safety regulations. No official FAA or NTSB statement has yet confirmed the detailed technical cause. Prior to this, on July 18, 2025, Delta Airlines Flight 446, a Boeing 767, experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff from LAX. The aircraft returned to the airport and made an emergency landing. Emergency crews responded promptly, and all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated via emergency slides. No injuries were reported.

Incidents

Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-700 Makes Emergency Landing at LAX Due To Engine Issue

September 13, 2025

Mumbai, India: A major aviation scare unfolded on Friday afternoon when a SpiceJet Bombardier Q400 aircraft operating flight SG 2906 from Kandla to Mumbai lost one of its main landing gear wheels shortly after take-off. The aircraft, carrying 75 passengers and crew, landed safely at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) under full emergency protocol, averting a potential disaster. According to airport authorities at Kandla, air traffic controllers spotted an object falling off the aircraft during take-off around 2:38 pm. Upon closer inspection, officials confirmed that it was the outer wheel of the right rear landing gear, along with metal rings that rolled off the runway. The parts were later recovered for investigation. Despite the wheel loss, the pilots continued to Mumbai after coordinating with air traffic control. A full emergency was declared at Mumbai airport, where firefighting and rescue teams were positioned near the runway. The aircraft landed at 3:51 pm on Runway 27, taxied under its own power, and parked safely. All passengers disembarked without incident. A SpiceJet spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating that the airline is cooperating with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for a detailed probe. “The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority. The affected aircraft has been grounded pending thorough inspection,” the airline said in a statement. Aviation experts suggest several possible causes for such a wheel detachment, including failure of the locking mechanism, loose axle nuts, bearing issues, or material fatigue. The Q400’s landing gear has dual wheels on each side, which allowed the pilots to land with reduced but adequate braking capability. Operations at Mumbai airport resumed shortly after the aircraft was cleared from the runway. No further delays were reported. The DGCA has initiated an inquiry to determine whether the incident was due to a maintenance lapse, manufacturing defect, or operational issue. Preliminary findings are expected in the coming days.

Incidents

SpiceJet Flight Lands Safely in Mumbai After Wheel Loss Mid-Flight, DGCA Investigates

September 13, 2025

Seattle, United States: A 28-year-old man from Deering, Alaska, was convicted in federal court on September 11, 2025, for abusive sexual contact on an Alaska Airlines flight. Trayton C. Ballot was arrested on January 15, 2025, after flight attendants reported inappropriate behavior during the flight from Anchorage to Seattle. According to court documents, Ballot repeatedly rubbed the inner thigh of a 17-year-old passenger seated next to him. The victim, traveling with her mother and a family friend, attempted to push Ballot’s hand away and immediately notified both her mother and the flight crew, who intervened to stop the assault. The case proceeded to trial in U.S. District Court in Seattle, where the jury, after a two-day hearing, deliberated for roughly one hour before returning a guilty verdict. The case emphasized serious violation of the victim’s personal safety and trust during a routine commercial flight. Ballot faces a statutory maximum sentence of two years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge John H. Chun is scheduled to hear sentencing arguments on December 15, 2025. The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), with the prosecution handled by Assistant United States Attorneys. The case reflects the federal government’s ongoing efforts to address sexual misconduct on commercial flights and to reinforce strict penalties for those who violate passenger safety. Alaska Airlines confirmed it cooperated fully with law enforcement during the investigation and emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate behavior on board.

Incidents

Alaska Airlines Passenger Convicted for Sexually Assaulting 17-Year-Old on Board

September 12, 2025

New Delhi, India: Over 200 passengers on board Air India’s Singapore-bound flight from Delhi faced a gruelling night after a cabin cooling failure delayed their departure by nearly six hours, forcing them to deplane and wait in the terminal before a replacement aircraft was arranged. The incident occurred on Flight AI2380, operated with a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which was scheduled to depart Indira Gandhi International Airport at around 11:00 PM on Wednesday night. Shortly after boarding, the aircraft reportedly experienced faults with its air conditioning system and electrical power supply, resulting in rising cabin temperatures. According to passengers, the situation quickly became uncomfortable as the cabin’s temperature climbed. Several travellers shared videos on social media showing people fanning themselves with newspapers and magazines. Some posts described young children and elderly passengers struggling with the heat during the extended wait. Passengers remained inside the aircraft for close to two hours before crew instructed them to disembark and return to the terminal. The decision was taken after engineers determined the issue could not be resolved on the spot. In a statement, Air India acknowledged the disruption, citing a “cabin cooling issue on ground prior to departure” as the cause. The airline said that its ground teams provided regular updates, refreshments, and meals while travellers waited in the terminal. “We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers. The safety and well-being of everyone on board remain our top priority,” the airline said. With the Dreamliner grounded for repairs, Air India deployed a replacement aircraft. The rescheduled flight finally took off at 5:36 AM IST on Thursday, nearly six hours behind schedule.

Incidents

Air India Delhi–Singapore Flight Delayed 6 Hours After On-Ground Cabin Cooling Failure

September 12, 2025

Washington, United States: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation after a regional jet was forced to abort its landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on Monday morning when pilots observed an airport vehicle on the runway. American Airlines Flight 4528, operated by Republic Airways and arriving from Detroit, was approaching the airport around 7 a.m. when the flight crew detected a potential hazard on Runway 33. According to audio from LiveATC.net, the pilot queried air traffic control, asking, “Tower, is there a vehicle on Runway 33?” The controller responded promptly, instructing the crew to “go around.” By the time the vehicle cleared the runway less than 12 seconds later the plane had already initiated a circling maneuver and safely landed approximately 15 minutes afterward. The FAA confirmed that the go-around was ordered as maintenance personnel were inspecting the runway. Data from Flightradar24 indicated that the aircraft was just 150 feet above ground and about three-quarters of a mile from the runway threshold when the maneuver was initiated, highlighting the proximity of the incident to a potential runway collision. This episode adds to a series of close calls at Reagan National Airport in recent months. Earlier this year, in January, 67 people lost their lives when a PSA Airlines-operated American Airlines regional jet collided midair with an Army Black Hawk helicopter while landing on the same runway. The accident prompted the FAA to restrict helicopter operations in the vicinity and revise air traffic control procedures. The FAA’s current investigation will focus on the circumstances that allowed the runway vehicle to be in the path of an arriving aircraft and assess the airport’s operational procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Airport and aviation officials have emphasized that no injuries occurred and that the aircraft landed safely following the go-around.

Incidents

Republic Airways Flight Aborts Landing at Washington Airport Due to Runway Vehicle

September 12, 2025

London, United Kingdom: The UK aviation industry has reached new heights, with a record 81 million passengers traveling through its airports between April and June 2025, according to the latest report from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This marks the highest quarterly passenger total on record, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and contributing to a total of 141 million travelers in the first half of the year, a 3% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The surge in passenger numbers is attributed to a combination of factors, including pent-up demand for travel, increased consumer confidence, and the easing of global travel restrictions. Europe remained the most popular international region for UK travelers, with destinations such as Dublin, Amsterdam, Palma de Mallorca, and Alicante seeing significant traffic. Notably, airports in the north of England, including Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, and Leeds Bradford, collectively welcomed nearly 750,000 additional passengers, highlighting the regional strength of the aviation sector. In addition to the record passenger numbers, the industry has demonstrated notable improvements in operational efficiency. Flight punctuality has seen a significant boost, with 75% of flights departing on time a marked increase of 8 percentage points compared to the same period in 2024. April was particularly strong, with 82% of flights departing as scheduled. Cargo operations have also rebounded, with nearly 700,000 tonnes of goods handled at UK airports between April and June. This represents a 6% year-on-year increase, surpassing pre-pandemic volumes. Key international cargo routes included Dubai, New York, Doha, and Leipzig, with notable growth in deliveries to Asian markets, including a 61% increase to Delhi and a 41% rise to Mumbai. Looking ahead, the CAA anticipates continued growth during the peak summer travel season, with expectations for another record-breaking quarter. The positive trends underscore the resilience of the UK aviation sector and its critical role in supporting economic recovery and connectivity. As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders remain focused on sustaining growth while enhancing service standards and operational efficiency to meet the demands of an increasingly dynamic global travel landscape.

Airports

UK Aviation Hits Record 81 Million Passengers in Spring 2025 Amid Strong Growth

September 11, 2025

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Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Global aviation operations have been significantly disrupted this week as a number of major carriers suspend or cancel flights to and from Israel and several key Gulf destinations, citing escalating geopolitical risks and heightened regional instability. Airlines including KLM, Air France, Lufthansa and British Airways have announced cancellations or temporary suspensions of services to critical hubs such as Tel Aviv (Ben Gurion Airport), Dubai and Riyadh, as well as broader route adjustments across the Middle East. The moves come amid intensifying security concerns related to rising tensions between the United States and Iran, and ongoing conflict dynamics in the region. Air France has temporarily halted flights between Paris and Dubai, stating that “due to the current situation in the Middle East,” the airline will suspend service to the UAE emirate for the time being. Dutch carrier KLM has paused flights not only to Tel Aviv but also to Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam (Saudi Arabia) while avoiding overflight of airspace above Iran, Iraq and several neighboring countries as a precaution. Lufthansa Group and British Airways have similarly scaled back operations to the region, with suspensions and cancellations affecting multiple daily services. The disruptions are reported to extend beyond European carriers, reflecting a broader industry response to the perceived security risks associated with the volatile geopolitical environment. These recent cancellations follow a broader pattern of flight suspensions and diversions that have periodically impacted Middle East routes throughout 2025 as regional tensions escalated. In past flare-ups, carriers such as Emirates, flydubai, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia also halted services to destinations including Iran, Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon due to airspace closures and safety concerns. Aviation industry analysts warn that these cancellations could have considerable knock-on effects for global travel and logistics networks. Passengers with upcoming itineraries to the affected regions are being urged to check flight statuses directly with airlines and to contact carriers promptly for rebooking or refund options where applicable. In related developments from prior months, international carriers had earlier extended or re-imposed suspensions for flights to and from Tel Aviv due to direct threats on airspace infrastructure. Airlines and aviation authorities emphasize that passenger and crew safety remain the top priorities guiding route decisions.

Major Airlines Cancel Israel, Dubai & Riyadh Flights Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

January 24, 2026

Lanzhou, China: A Russian-registered passenger aircraft made a precautionary emergency landing at Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport in northwest China on Friday afternoon after declaring a distress situation while transiting Chinese airspace, Chinese authorities and international sources reported. The Azur Air flight ZF2998, operated by a Boeing 757-200, was en route from Phuket International Airport in Thailand to Barnaul, Russia when the crew activated the transponder code 7700, the internationally recognized signal for a flight emergency. According to airport and media reports, the aircraft circled near Lanzhou and conducted precautionary fuel jettisoning before safely touching down at 4:51 p.m. local time on January 23. All people onboard 239 passengers and seven crew members, totaling 246 individuals disembarked without injury, authorities said. Following the landing, airport officials confirmed that regular departure and arrival operations were maintained without disruption. Passengers have since been transported to accommodation in Lanzhou as part of post-flight arrangements by airport and airline representatives. Initial reports from state and international outlets indicate the emergency diversion was linked to a malfunction in the aircraft’s right engine, prompting the crew’s decision to divert for safety reasons. Specialists are expected to conduct detailed technical inspections of the airframe and propulsion systems. A spokesperson for the airline told media that the aircraft’s technical condition will be evaluated thoroughly to determine the precise cause of the in-flight emergency. A transponder code of 7700 is used globally to signal an aircraft is experiencing a serious in-flight emergency requiring immediate coordination with air traffic control and priority handling. Aviation safety experts note that diversion under such conditions is a routine but critical response to ensure passenger and crew safety.

Azur Air Flight Boeing 757 Makes Emergency Landing In Lanzhou After Mid-Air Alert

January 24, 2026

Nice, France: A Luxair regional aircraft was forced to perform an emergency landing at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport on Thursday, January 22, after the crew received a warning of a potential landing gear malfunction, the airline and aviation authorities confirmed. Flight LG8255, operated by a De Havilland Dash 8-400 turboprop registered LX-LQA, departed Luxembourg Findel Airport at approximately 13:17 local time en route to Nice with 74 passengers and crew onboard. According to initial reports, the flight crew received an “unsafe indication” for the right main landing gear during the approach to Nice. Following standard safety protocols, the aircraft aborted its first landing attempt and entered a holding pattern over the Mediterranean Sea to troubleshoot the issue. As a precautionary measure, the crew shut down the right-hand engine and prepared the cabin for an emergency landing, instructing passengers to assume the brace position. After approximately 75 minutes in the air, the aircraft returned to Nice and completed a safe landing on runway 04L, coming to a stop on the runway surface. The aircraft was unable to taxi under its own power and remained on the runway while emergency services attended. All 74 passengers and crew disembarked safely and were transported by bus to the terminal. Local airport authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported. Fire and rescue units had been pre-positioned on the runway as part of routine emergency response procedures. In response to the incident, air traffic at Nice was temporarily suspended, resulting in brief disruptions to scheduled arrivals and departures. Luxair CEO Gilles Feith described the situation as “an enormously stressful event” but praised the professionalism of the flight crew and passengers in managing the emergency. He attributed the issue to a faulty landing gear sensor, noting that after landing the indication returned to normal. “The sensor showed an unsafe indication, although the landing gear was later confirmed as locked,” Feith said in an interview. The airline has dispatched maintenance personnel and auditors to Nice to conduct a full technical investigation into the cause of the warning and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Luxair Flight Makes Emergency Landing At Nice After Landing Gear Indicator Fault

January 23, 2026

Delhi, India: India’s civil aviation sector marked a significant milestone in 2024 with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issuing a record number of Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPLs), reflecting rapid expansion in pilot training activity amid growing air travel demand. According to an official statement released by the Civil Aviation Ministry, the DGCA issued 1,628 commercial pilot licenses in 2024, the highest number recorded in any year in the history of Indian civil aviation. The figure represents an increase of more than 2.5 times compared with eight years earlier, underscoring the sector’s growth trajectory. The ministry’s release provided a multi-year breakdown of CPL issuances, showing the progression of licenses granted over recent years. In 2018, the DGCA issued 640 CPLs, followed by 744 in 2019 and a dip to 578 in 2020. Numbers rebounded to 862 in 2021 and climbed further to 1,165 in 2022 and 1,622 in 2023 before reaching the current high. The surge in pilot licensing occurs against the backdrop of India’s expanding aviation market, where fleet growth and rising passenger demand have placed increasing emphasis on pilot recruitment pipelines. Analysts and industry officials have highlighted that airlines will require tens of thousands of additional pilots over the next decade to support fleet expansion and maintain operational schedules. Beyond licensing, the Civil Aviation Ministry said in its release that it maintained active oversight of airline fare levels throughout 2024, leveraging real-time data and coordination with carriers and online travel agencies. During IndiGo operational disruption in December, the ministry invoked regulatory powers to enforce fare caps and guard passengers against opportunistic pricing. Civil aviation stakeholders said the record issuance of CPLs reflects both increased capacity at flying training organisations and more streamlined processes via the DGCA’s digital licensing platform. However, industry leaders continue to stress the need for enhanced infrastructure, cost-efficient training pathways and strategic policy support to fully leverage the growing pool of qualified pilots.

DGCA Records India’s Highest-Ever CPL Issuance With 1,628 Licenses Issued In 2024

January 23, 2026

Sakaka, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has officially inaugurated the New Al‑Jouf International Airport in Sakaka, a strategic development aimed at expanding air connectivity in the Kingdom’s northern region. The ceremony was led by Prince Faisal bin Nawaf, Emir of Al‑Jouf, alongside Transport Minister Saleh bin Nasser Al‑Jasser, GACA President Abdulaziz Al‑Duailej, and other senior officials. The inauguration signals a significant step forward in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions to modernize transport infrastructure and promote regional economic development. The new facility expands passenger capacity from 175,000 to 1.6 million annually, addressing growing demand for both domestic and international travel in the northern region. The airport’s 24,000-square-meter terminal is equipped with advanced passenger processing facilities, including two boarding bridges, seven departure gates, four arrival gates, 16 check-in counters, and modern automated passport control systems. Additional amenities include seven smart gates, a 470-meter baggage conveyor system, commercial and retail zones totaling 1,700 sqm, children’s play areas, and parking for 648 vehicles. At launch, the airport is served by three domestic Saudi airlines and four international carriers, connecting Al‑Jouf to destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Sharjah, Dubai, Cairo, and Assiut. Domestic operations constitute the majority of flights, with Riyadh emerging as the busiest route, offering 38 weekly flights. Officials highlighted that the new airport will significantly improve travel convenience and reduce transit times for passengers in northern Saudi Arabia. Beyond passenger services, the airport is expected to stimulate tourism, trade, and local business development. The modern infrastructure will facilitate increased regional economic activity, create new employment opportunities, and serve as a gateway for international travelers exploring northern Saudi Arabia. GACA confirmed that full flight operations are scheduled to commence in February 2026, following final operational testing. Minister Al‑Jasser lauded the project as a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in modern transportation and logistics, stating that the airport “represents a strategic gateway for the northern region and a key enabler of tourism, commerce, and regional connectivity.” The airport also aligns with broader national objectives to diversify the economy, expand the tourism sector, and integrate Saudi Arabia more fully into global aviation networks. The inauguration of Al‑Jouf International Airport marks a transformative moment for northern Saudi Arabia, combining modern passenger facilities, expanded flight connectivity, and economic development potential. With its capacity to handle over 1.6 million passengers annually, the airport is expected to become a central hub for both domestic and international travel, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a regional aviation and tourism leader.

Saudi Arabia Inaugurates Al-Jouf International Airport With 1.6 Million Capacity

January 23, 2026

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India’s Air Passenger Traffic Set to Hit 40 Crore by 2029: Civil Aviation Secretary

The Middle East aviation market is expected to be worth $33.7 billion by 2029, with airports investing $151 billion to expand capacity and upgrade passenger cargo By 2040, it is expected that aircraft position investment would reach $2.4 billion worldwide, driven by policies, sustainability, new technology and enhanced passenger experience | Aviation Today

Middle East Aviation Market Set to Reach $33.7 Billion by 2029 with $151 Billion in Airport Investments

In a recent statement, Willie Walsh, the Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), described India as a "fascinating market" and a top destination. He made reference to the more than 1,000 aircraft that local carriers like Air India and IndiGo have ordered, saying, "I think somebody with an ambition to be a pilot should be looking at India because of the aircraft orders | Aviation Today

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