India is all set to receive its new plane (Air India One) Boeing 777-300ERs which will be used to fly VVIPs including Prime minister, President, and Vice- President of India.

The new plane will be equipped with most sophisticated technology, military defence systems and a reconfigured cabin which includes Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS). The plane will also feature Advanced Electronic Warfare Suites which will not only protect the aircraft from any kind of attack from surface-to-air but also will be able to take countermeasures in case of an attack.

A team of 40 Air India pilots are being trained alongside IAF pilots to fly the state-of-the-art VVIP planes.

Earlier, India's VVIPs use to fly in 747 Boeing jets with some basic modifications which were also used for the general public as well with the plane belonging to the Air India fleet.&nbsp;

The decision to get the new aircraft for the VVIPs movement had a long halt when PM, President, or Vice-President use to travel long hours on 747 Boeing which was not capable of flying more than 10 hours without refuelling, however, now B-777 aircraft can fly over 17 hours continuously without landing in between for refuelling.

Due to the advanced communication system fitted in the aircraft, the prime minister or the president will be able to communicate with the relevant ground staff through video or audio conferencing without a trap.

The new Boeing 777-300ERs will be operated by pilots of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and not of Air India which was the case earlier.

Here is a look at the top three aircraft in the world used by their head of state:

US President:

US president travels anywhere in the world on Air Force One which is Boeing 747-200B series aircraft capable of refuelling midair. Air Force One has unlimited range and can carry the President wherever he needs to travel. Air Force One is equipped with advanced secure communications equipment, allowing the aircraft to function as a mobile command centre in the event of an attack on the United States.

Russian President:

The Russian president's flying palace is IL-96-300PU jet which is equipped with an advanced communication system that allows it to act as a management centre capable of commanding troops in case of an unexpected attack. The plane features a spacious office, a bedroom and a gym that provides all luxuries to the president while he is in mid-air. The Russian president has a total of four similar aircraft which are ready to take the president anywhere in the world but the specific plane to be used by Putin is not known until takeoff.

Chinese President:

President of China flies in massive Boeing 747-400 which are vetted by security and refitted with a living room, bedroom and office when the president needs to fly. It might surprise you to know that President Xi doesn’t own his planes and the planes are reverted to regular passenger flights by Air China for the rest of the time like Indian VVIPs the old Air India One use to do.

India is all set to receive its new plane (Air India One) Boeing 777-300ERs which will be used to fly VVIPs including Prime minister, President, and Vice- President of India.

India is all set to receive its new plane (Air India One) Boeing 777-300ERs which will be used to fly VVIPs including Prime minister, President, and Vice- President of India. The new plane will be equipped with most sophisticated technology, military defence systems and a reconfigured cabin which includes Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS). The plane will also feature Advanced Electronic Warfare Suites which will not only protect the aircraft from any kind of attack from surface-to-air but also will be able to take countermeasures in case of an attack. A team of 40 Air India pilots are being trained alongside IAF pilots to fly the state-of-the-art VVIP planes. Earlier, India's VVIPs use to fly in 747 Boeing jets with some basic modifications which were also used for the general public as well with the plane belonging to the Air India fleet. The decision to get the new aircraft for the VVIPs movement had a long halt when PM, President, or Vice-President use to travel long hours on 747 Boeing which was not capable of flying more than 10 hours without refuelling, however, now B-777 aircraft can fly over 17 hours continuously without landing in between for refuelling. Due to the advanced communication system fitted in the aircraft, the prime minister or the president will be able to communicate with the relevant ground staff through video or audio conferencing without a trap. The new Boeing 777-300ERs will be operated by pilots of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and not of Air India which was the case earlier. Here is a look at the top three aircraft in the world used by their head of state: US President: US president travels anywhere in the world on Air Force One which is Boeing 747-200B series aircraft capable of refuelling midair. Air Force One has unlimited range and can carry the President wherever he needs to travel. Air Force One is equipped with advanced secure communications equipment, allowing the aircraft to function as a mobile command centre in the event of an attack on the United States. Russian President: The Russian president's flying palace is IL-96-300PU jet which is equipped with an advanced communication system that allows it to act as a management centre capable of commanding troops in case of an unexpected attack. The plane features a spacious office, a bedroom and a gym that provides all luxuries to the president while he is in mid-air. The Russian president has a total of four similar aircraft which are ready to take the president anywhere in the world but the specific plane to be used by Putin is not known until takeoff. Chinese President: President of China flies in massive Boeing 747-400 which are vetted by security and refitted with a living room, bedroom and office when the president needs to fly. It might surprise you to know that President Xi doesn’t own his planes and the planes are reverted to regular passenger flights by Air China for the rest of the time like Indian VVIPs the old Air India One use to do.

PM Modi's plane in new avatar with sophisticated defence systems

The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were recovered from the site where an Indian passenger aircraft crashed, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed on Saturday.

Speaking at a news conference,&nbsp;Puri said the black boxes containing the data had been retrieved as he urged people not to speculate about what caused Friday's deadly crash.

The news of the black boxes' recovery came as the family of the plane's pilot Deepak Sathe, who was killed in the accident along with the co-pilot Akhilesh Sharma, gathered together in their home state of Maharashtra.

The death toll from the Air India plane crash accident rose to 18, with 16 people seriously injured, a senior government official said on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-in-air-india-plane-crash-rises-to-at-least-18-relief-work-underway-318970">Death toll in Air India plane crash rises to at least 18; relief work underway</a>

The Boeing 737, on a special flight from Dubai to bring back Indians stranded by the coronavirus pandemic, overshot the runway at Kozhikode in Kerala state, plunged down an embankment and broke up.

"Fuel had leaked out so it was a miracle that the plane did not catch fire, the toll could have been much higher," one senior emergency official at the scene said.

Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri visited the site Saturday and announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders had been found, which will help the investigation into the cause of the crash.&nbsp;

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau was conducting the probe, he said.

Kozhikode is considered a tricky airport as it has a table-top runway with a steep drop at one end.

Kerala has been hit by severe floods in recent days and heavy rains had been falling for several hours at Kozhikode as the jet landed.

The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were recovered from the site where an Indian passenger aircraft crashed, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed on Saturday.

The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were recovered from the site where an Indian passenger aircraft crashed, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed on Saturday. Speaking at a news conference, Puri said the black boxes containing the data had been retrieved as he urged people not to speculate about what caused Friday's deadly crash. The news of the black boxes' recovery came as the family of the plane's pilot Deepak Sathe, who was killed in the accident along with the co-pilot Akhilesh Sharma, gathered together in their home state of Maharashtra. The death toll from the Air India plane crash accident rose to 18, with 16 people seriously injured, a senior government official said on Saturday. Also read: Death toll in Air India plane crash rises to at least 18; relief work underway The Boeing 737, on a special flight from Dubai to bring back Indians stranded by the coronavirus pandemic, overshot the runway at Kozhikode in Kerala state, plunged down an embankment and broke up. "Fuel had leaked out so it was a miracle that the plane did not catch fire, the toll could have been much higher," one senior emergency official at the scene said. Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri visited the site Saturday and announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders had been found, which will help the investigation into the cause of the crash. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau was conducting the probe, he said. Kozhikode is considered a tricky airport as it has a table-top runway with a steep drop at one end. Kerala has been hit by severe floods in recent days and heavy rains had been falling for several hours at Kozhikode as the jet landed.

Black boxes of crashed Air India plane recovered, says Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri

Several injured passengers of the ill-fated Air India Express flight from Dubai which overshot the runway and crashed at the airport here are yet to get over the horror moments that took them close to death.

It was a black Friday for all the 184 passengers who after a long wait managed to get tickets in the repatriation flight from Dubai as part of the Centre's Vande Bharat Mission to evacuate Indians stranded abroad due to coronovirus pandemic.

"We did not realise what really happened other than the flight was shaking," said Ramshad, who was injured as the aircraft dived into the valley and broke into two portions on Friday night after landing amid rains.

Though he was injured, Ramshad's wife Sufaira and four- year old daughter Saidasherin escaped without any serious wounds.

Similar is the experience of Ashraf, a native of east Kozhikode, now under treatment at the Medical College Hospital here, who said he was yet to recover from the shock.

"As soon the flight crashed, the emergency door was opened and people jumped out to safety, another survivor said.

Ashik, undergoing treatment at a hospital here, said the fire force personnel reached immediately and shifted the injured to hospital soon.

Eighteen people, including pilot-in command Captain Deepak Sathe and Co-pilot Akhilesh Kumar were among those killed in the accident.

Four cabin crew are among the 172 people who escaped with injuries.

The incident also saw local people joining the police and Fire and Force personnel in rushing to the rescue of the victims despite pouring rains and unmindful of social distancing and other COVID-19 protocols.

Dr Shimna Azeer, a doctor of a private hospital in Malappuram, who attended to a few of the injured brought there, said she was astonished at the manner in which the volunteers from the accident spot quickly managed to bring the affected.

In spite of the restrictions imposed due to containment and the heavy downpour that lashed since evening, the volunteers did a fantastic job, forgetting all protocols of social distancing or wearing masks which were fully wet during the course of rescue operations, Azeer said.&nbsp;

Several injured passengers of the ill-fated Air India Express flight from Dubai which overshot the runway and crashed at the airport here are yet to get over the horror moments that took them close to death.

Several injured passengers of the ill-fated Air India Express flight from Dubai which overshot the runway and crashed at the airport here are yet to get over the horror moments that took them close to death. It was a black Friday for all the 184 passengers who after a long wait managed to get tickets in the repatriation flight from Dubai as part of the Centre's Vande Bharat Mission to evacuate Indians stranded abroad due to coronovirus pandemic. "We did not realise what really happened other than the flight was shaking," said Ramshad, who was injured as the aircraft dived into the valley and broke into two portions on Friday night after landing amid rains. Though he was injured, Ramshad's wife Sufaira and four- year old daughter Saidasherin escaped without any serious wounds. Similar is the experience of Ashraf, a native of east Kozhikode, now under treatment at the Medical College Hospital here, who said he was yet to recover from the shock. "As soon the flight crashed, the emergency door was opened and people jumped out to safety, another survivor said. Ashik, undergoing treatment at a hospital here, said the fire force personnel reached immediately and shifted the injured to hospital soon. Eighteen people, including pilot-in command Captain Deepak Sathe and Co-pilot Akhilesh Kumar were among those killed in the accident. Four cabin crew are among the 172 people who escaped with injuries. The incident also saw local people joining the police and Fire and Force personnel in rushing to the rescue of the victims despite pouring rains and unmindful of social distancing and other COVID-19 protocols. Dr Shimna Azeer, a doctor of a private hospital in Malappuram, who attended to a few of the injured brought there, said she was astonished at the manner in which the volunteers from the accident spot quickly managed to bring the affected. In spite of the restrictions imposed due to containment and the heavy downpour that lashed since evening, the volunteers did a fantastic job, forgetting all protocols of social distancing or wearing masks which were fully wet during the course of rescue operations, Azeer said.

Survivors of Kozhikode air crash yet to recover from shock

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the Centre was not standing by the people amid the economic downturn due to COVID-19, as she hit out at the BJP-led government over Air India's decision to send certain employees on leave without pay for up to five years.

She accused the central government of taking advantage of the crisis and tweaking laws and rules to keep on with their "dictator-like attitude".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-in-containment-zones-in-west-bengal-for-seven-days-chief-minister-mamata-banerjee-311706">Lockdown in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee</a>

"Sometimes, I feel not to say anything against them and work together to fight COVID-19. But then, I feel sorry that when we are passing through such a critical time and everybody is fighting the disease, the central government and BJP are taking advantage (of it)," the chief minister said at a press conference in state secretariat 'Nabanna'.

"They have already amended so many laws without any consultation (with any political parties), so many laws have been changed and whatever they need to maintain their dictatorship they are doing it. I am shocked," she added.

Slamming the Centre over the Air India move, she asked what will happen to the employees after five years.

"What's happening in the country? I've never heard of this. Will not the Constitution come into play in this case? I am really shocked. How can they snatch the democratic rights of the people... Five years on leave without pay and after five years where will they go," she said.

"Five years of no pay in this situation when people want cash," Banerjee stated.

"Is this the manner in which a democratic government works? Everything is lost... Everybody is afraid, scared and ashamed. What will they do?" Banerjee said.

Air India Thursday said it has started the process of identifying employees, based on various factors like efficiency, health and redundancy, who will be sent on compulsory leave without pay (LWP) for up to five years.

She further said that the central government was not paying heed to the advice of senior economists to give money into the hands of people at this hour of crisis, and instead was allowing FDI in several important sectors such as the railways.

"How can they snatch the rights of the employees of Coal India with 100 per cent FDI? Banks are also been merged," she said.

Banerjee urged all the trade unions to unitedly fight against the decisions of the Centre.

"I will appeal to all trade unions, including the BJP's, to unitedly stand against this without surrendering... I will request them not to bow their heads and stay together to support this cause," she said. 
&nbsp;

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the Centre was not standing by the people amid the economic downturn due to COVID-19, as she hit out at the BJP-led government over Air India's decision to send certain employees on leave without pay for up to five years.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the Centre was not standing by the people amid the economic downturn due to COVID-19, as she hit out at the BJP-led government over Air India's decision to send certain employees on leave without pay for up to five years. She accused the central government of taking advantage of the crisis and tweaking laws and rules to keep on with their "dictator-like attitude". Also read | Lockdown in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee "Sometimes, I feel not to say anything against them and work together to fight COVID-19. But then, I feel sorry that when we are passing through such a critical time and everybody is fighting the disease, the central government and BJP are taking advantage (of it)," the chief minister said at a press conference in state secretariat 'Nabanna'. "They have already amended so many laws without any consultation (with any political parties), so many laws have been changed and whatever they need to maintain their dictatorship they are doing it. I am shocked," she added. Slamming the Centre over the Air India move, she asked what will happen to the employees after five years. "What's happening in the country? I've never heard of this. Will not the Constitution come into play in this case? I am really shocked. How can they snatch the democratic rights of the people... Five years on leave without pay and after five years where will they go," she said. "Five years of no pay in this situation when people want cash," Banerjee stated. "Is this the manner in which a democratic government works? Everything is lost... Everybody is afraid, scared and ashamed. What will they do?" Banerjee said. Air India Thursday said it has started the process of identifying employees, based on various factors like efficiency, health and redundancy, who will be sent on compulsory leave without pay (LWP) for up to five years. She further said that the central government was not paying heed to the advice of senior economists to give money into the hands of people at this hour of crisis, and instead was allowing FDI in several important sectors such as the railways. "How can they snatch the rights of the employees of Coal India with 100 per cent FDI? Banks are also been merged," she said. Banerjee urged all the trade unions to unitedly fight against the decisions of the Centre. "I will appeal to all trade unions, including the BJP's, to unitedly stand against this without surrendering... I will request them not to bow their heads and stay together to support this cause," she said.

Everybody is afraid, scared, ashamed: Mamata on Air India's leave without pay move

Air India will operate 36 flights between India and the US under the Vande Bharat mission from July 11 to July 19.

"Tickets may be booked through Air India website only effective 2000 hours (IST) on 6th July 2020, equivalent to New York (EDT 1030 hrs of 6th July 2020), Chicago (CDT 0930 hrs of 6th July 2020) &amp; San Francisco (PDT 0730 hrs of 6th July 2020)," the airline said, in a tweet on Sunday.

The fourth phase of Vande Bharat Mission began on July 3 to bring back Indian stranded abroad amid the coronavirus pandemic. Air India and domestic private carriers are allowed to operate flights under the programme which has pre-fixed ticket charges.

In June, the US Department of Transportation (DoT) had accused India of engaging in "discriminatory and restrictive practices", and said it would restrict charter flights from India.

The Civil Aviation Ministry then said it had received requests from several countries, including the US, France and Germany for allowing their air carriers to participate in the transportation of passengers along the line being conducted by Air India under the Vande Bharat Mission and that the ministry is examining the requests.

Air India will operate 36 flights between India and the US under the Vande Bharat mission from July 11 to July 19. "Tickets may be booked through Air India website only effective 2000 hours (IST) on 6th July 2020, equivalent to New York (EDT 1030 hrs of 6th July 2020), Chicago (CDT 0930 hrs of 6th July 2020) & San Francisco (PDT 0730 hrs of 6th July 2020)," the airline said, in a tweet on Sunday.

Air India will operate 36 flights between India and the US under the Vande Bharat mission from July 11 to July 19. "Tickets may be booked through Air India website only effective 2000 hours (IST) on 6th July 2020, equivalent to New York (EDT 1030 hrs of 6th July 2020), Chicago (CDT 0930 hrs of 6th July 2020) & San Francisco (PDT 0730 hrs of 6th July 2020)," the airline said, in a tweet on Sunday. The fourth phase of Vande Bharat Mission began on July 3 to bring back Indian stranded abroad amid the coronavirus pandemic. Air India and domestic private carriers are allowed to operate flights under the programme which has pre-fixed ticket charges. In June, the US Department of Transportation (DoT) had accused India of engaging in "discriminatory and restrictive practices", and said it would restrict charter flights from India. The Civil Aviation Ministry then said it had received requests from several countries, including the US, France and Germany for allowing their air carriers to participate in the transportation of passengers along the line being conducted by Air India under the Vande Bharat Mission and that the ministry is examining the requests.

Vande Bharat mission: 36 flights to be operated between India and US from July 11-19

Citing its mission as "discriminatory" since only India's state carrier is allowed, US Transport department has asked Air India to halt the ongoing repatriation under ''Vande Bharat mission'' from the US.

Citing its mission as "discriminatory" since only India's state carrier is allowed, US Transport department has asked Air India to halt the ongoing repatriation under ''Vande Bharat mission'' from the US. The order said, "We are taking this action because the Government of India (GoI) has impaired the operating rights of US carriers and has engaged in discriminatory and restrictive practices with respect to US carrier services to and from India." The order will come into effect 30 days from the service date. The main plea of the US transport authority is that India has "imposed restriction" that prevents US airlines to conduct the flight operations and while noting that Air India is conducting "self-described evacuation", it has "gone beyond true evacuations". India began repatriation flights from US since May 18th and on 19th May, the matter was raised by the US with Air India. In fact, on 26th May, US airline Delta Airlines had requested permission from the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) to perform repatriation charter services similar to those provided by Air India but hasn't received approval. From June 10th and July 3rd, Air India advertised for 59 repatriation flights between India and the US which the order called as "Air India may be using its passenger repatriation charters as a way of circumventing the GoI-imposed prohibition of all scheduled services" and this creates, "competitive disadvantage for US carriers vis-à-vis Indian carriers". So far, the Indian government hasn't reacted to the development. The US government registered its objections with Indian govt regarding this "competitive imbalance" via its mission on 28th May. India announced the suspension of international flights from 25th March. The US transport department has also called for "close scrutiny" and will give prior approvals on "case by case basis" to Air India passenger charter operations. Before that Air India operated 34 round trips flights per week to the US.

Air India repatriation flights from US to be halted over 'unfair and discriminatory practices'

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now.

Addressing a press conference here, Puri said, "I have never been as hopeful and confident on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment whatever you choose, as I am now. I have always said that Air India is a first-class asset. It has excellent engineers, excellent pilots, covering various destinations be it the evacuation of people from Wuhan, Air India has been at the heart of it."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-crew-stranded-on-cruise-ships-in-uk-appeal-for-repatriation-307303">Also read:&nbsp;Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation</a>

"And I think, we need to make some decisions on nationalisation. We may have lost two or three months because of the pandemic, but we have gained a lot of experience in terms of the value and how to take this forward," he added.

Commenting upon the resumption of international flights, Puri said, "The notion that international traffic has opened up and we are the only one not to open up, needs a reality check. The exact time when international flights will be resumed depends on whether other countries are open to receive flights."

"In absence of a decision on resumption of international civil aviation which will depend on other countries opening up, we are left with no option but to continue what I call evacuation and repatriation flights under managed and controlled conditions," he added.&nbsp;

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now. Addressing a press conference here, Puri said, "I have never been as hopeful and confident on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment whatever you choose, as I am now. I have always said that Air India is a first-class asset. It has excellent engineers, excellent pilots, covering various destinations be it the evacuation of people from Wuhan, Air India has been at the heart of it." Also read: Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation "And I think, we need to make some decisions on nationalisation. We may have lost two or three months because of the pandemic, but we have gained a lot of experience in terms of the value and how to take this forward," he added. Commenting upon the resumption of international flights, Puri said, "The notion that international traffic has opened up and we are the only one not to open up, needs a reality check. The exact time when international flights will be resumed depends on whether other countries are open to receive flights." "In absence of a decision on resumption of international civil aviation which will depend on other countries opening up, we are left with no option but to continue what I call evacuation and repatriation flights under managed and controlled conditions," he added.

Hardeep Singh Puri 'confident and hopeful' about Air India's divestment, disinvestment plans

Air India has made it mandatory for its pilots and cabin crew members to check and confirm that their pre-flight COVID-19 test results are negative before they operate an aircraft.

This comes in the wake of an Air India flight from Delhi to Moscow with no passenger on-board being asked to return midway on Saturday after its ground staff realised that one of the pilots of the plane had tested positive for coronavirus but was assigned the duty following an oversight by a team checking pre-flight medical reports of the crew.

The Executive Director (Operations), Air India in a circular, which was accessed by PTI said there was a possibility of an oversight due to a shortage of staff in office.

However, it is imperative that the individual crew member also checks and reconfirms his or her test result, the circular said.

Any laxity in this matter will be dealt with severity, it added.

THE INCIDENT

The Airbus A320 plane departed around 7.15 am on Saturday for Moscow to bring back a group of stranded Indians under the Vande Bharat evacuation mission and it was back in Delhi by 12.30 pm following orders from the authorities.

The airline officials, it is speculated, tasked to examine medical reports of the crew did not look at the pilot's test results properly before assigning him the duty.

According to standard operating procedure, pilots and other crew members of any flight are required to undergo mandatory testing for coronavirus and are assigned duties if the laboratory results are negative.

The plane with registration number VT-EXR was in the airspace of Uzbekistan when it was told to return. All crew members including the Delhi-based pilot with coronavirus infection have been quarantined after they arrived in Delhi, the officials said,

In a statement, Air India had said on Saturday that it recalled the aircraft immediately when it was noticed that one of the cockpit crew had tested positive in the pre-flight COVID-19 test.

Aviation regulator DGCA has already begun an investigation into the case based on a preliminary report by the airline.

(with inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

Air India has made it mandatory for its pilots and cabin crew members to check and confirm that their pre-flight COVID-19 test results are negative before they operate an aircraft.

Air India has made it mandatory for its pilots and cabin crew members to check and confirm that their pre-flight COVID-19 test results are negative before they operate an aircraft. This comes in the wake of an Air India flight from Delhi to Moscow with no passenger on-board being asked to return midway on Saturday after its ground staff realised that one of the pilots of the plane had tested positive for coronavirus but was assigned the duty following an oversight by a team checking pre-flight medical reports of the crew. The Executive Director (Operations), Air India in a circular, which was accessed by PTI said there was a possibility of an oversight due to a shortage of staff in office. However, it is imperative that the individual crew member also checks and reconfirms his or her test result, the circular said. Any laxity in this matter will be dealt with severity, it added. THE INCIDENT The Airbus A320 plane departed around 7.15 am on Saturday for Moscow to bring back a group of stranded Indians under the Vande Bharat evacuation mission and it was back in Delhi by 12.30 pm following orders from the authorities. The airline officials, it is speculated, tasked to examine medical reports of the crew did not look at the pilot's test results properly before assigning him the duty. According to standard operating procedure, pilots and other crew members of any flight are required to undergo mandatory testing for coronavirus and are assigned duties if the laboratory results are negative. The plane with registration number VT-EXR was in the airspace of Uzbekistan when it was told to return. All crew members including the Delhi-based pilot with coronavirus infection have been quarantined after they arrived in Delhi, the officials said, In a statement, Air India had said on Saturday that it recalled the aircraft immediately when it was noticed that one of the cockpit crew had tested positive in the pre-flight COVID-19 test. Aviation regulator DGCA has already begun an investigation into the case based on a preliminary report by the airline. (with inputs from PTI)

AI makes it mandatory for crew to check if their pre-flight coronavirus test results are negative

As the aviation industry gears up to get back in air from Monday, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have issued guidelines for international and domestic travel.

As per the guidelines, wearing face masks, or face shields, will be compulsory during the entire journey. All passengers have been advised to wear hand gloves and avoid coming in contact with anything in public spaces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-tn-west-bengal-seek-delay-in-restarting-flights-as-coronavirus-cases-rise-300734">Also read:&nbsp;Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise</a>

Passengers will go through thermal screening on the airports and will have to follow all rules of social distancing throughout their journey.

All asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to travel, under the strict guidelines to self-quarantine&nbsp;themselves for the next 14 days. They will also have to self-examine their health symptoms&nbsp;for 14 days, and inform the&nbsp;district surveillance officer or the state/national call center if they suspect any symptoms.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Latest guidelines on domestic &amp; international travel have been issued by <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a>. 
 
I hope travellers strictly follow these self-regulatory norms &amp; strengthen India's hands in this fight against COVID19. Remember, each one of us is a soldier against the pandemic.<a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA_GoI</a> <a href="https://t.co/xVbTG1K44n">pic.twitter.com/xVbTG1K44n</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1264479951132209153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It is compulsory for all passengers to be registered on Aarogya Setu app to prove that they are coming from a non-containment zone, or 'green zone'.

A list of dos and don'ts will be provided to the passengers along with tickets by the concerned authorities, said the ministry's guidelines for domestic travel (air/train/inter-state bus travel).

These guidelines have been issued for domestic air, train and road travel.

As majority airlines have booked the tickets for their routes starting tomorrow,&nbsp;Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal&nbsp;have said they are not prepared to open for flights amid rising cases.

As the aviation industry gears up to get back in air from Monday, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have issued guidelines for international and domestic travel.

As the aviation industry gears up to get back in air from Monday, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have issued guidelines for international and domestic travel. As per the guidelines, wearing face masks, or face shields, will be compulsory during the entire journey. All passengers have been advised to wear hand gloves and avoid coming in contact with anything in public spaces. Also read: Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise Passengers will go through thermal screening on the airports and will have to follow all rules of social distancing throughout their journey. All asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to travel, under the strict guidelines to self-quarantine themselves for the next 14 days. They will also have to self-examine their health symptoms for 14 days, and inform the district surveillance officer or the state/national call center if they suspect any symptoms. Latest guidelines on domestic & international travel have been issued by @MoHFW_INDIA. I hope travellers strictly follow these self-regulatory norms & strengthen India's hands in this fight against COVID19. Remember, each one of us is a soldier against the pandemic.@MoCA_GoI pic.twitter.com/xVbTG1K44n — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) May 24, 2020 × It is compulsory for all passengers to be registered on Aarogya Setu app to prove that they are coming from a non-containment zone, or 'green zone'. A list of dos and don'ts will be provided to the passengers along with tickets by the concerned authorities, said the ministry's guidelines for domestic travel (air/train/inter-state bus travel). These guidelines have been issued for domestic air, train and road travel. As majority airlines have booked the tickets for their routes starting tomorrow, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have said they are not prepared to open for flights amid rising cases.

New guidelines issued for domestic travel; Aarogya Setu app compulsory

India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner"&nbsp;from May 25.

"All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said.

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Domestic civil aviation operations will recommence in a calibrated manner from Monday 25th May 2020. 
 
All airports &amp; air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from 25th May. 
 
SOPs for passenger movement are also being separately issued by <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA_GoI</a>.
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1263068920690302977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The minister said that SOPs for passenger movement will be issued separately by the civil aviation ministry.

"Initially only a small percentage of the total number of domestic flights will operate. Then depending on the experience we gain, we will increase the number of flights," civil aviation ministry Hardeep Singh Puri.

Meanwhile, a repatriation flight carrying 168 seafarers from Italy landed in Goa today with all passengers set to be screened even as an Air India flight from London carrying 145 Indians landed at&nbsp;Vijayawada airport.

The Indian Navy said today that phase 3 of "Operation Samudra Setu"&nbsp;has begun with INS Jalashwa continuing with the mission to bring back Indian citizens stranded overseas.&nbsp;

Jalashwa will embark on getting Indian nationals from Colombo in Sri Lanka on June 20.

India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner" from May 25. "All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said.

India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner" from May 25. "All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said. Domestic civil aviation operations will recommence in a calibrated manner from Monday 25th May 2020. All airports & air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from 25th May. SOPs for passenger movement are also being separately issued by @MoCA_GoI. — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) May 20, 2020 × The minister said that SOPs for passenger movement will be issued separately by the civil aviation ministry. "Initially only a small percentage of the total number of domestic flights will operate. Then depending on the experience we gain, we will increase the number of flights," civil aviation ministry Hardeep Singh Puri. Meanwhile, a repatriation flight carrying 168 seafarers from Italy landed in Goa today with all passengers set to be screened even as an Air India flight from London carrying 145 Indians landed at Vijayawada airport. The Indian Navy said today that phase 3 of "Operation Samudra Setu" has begun with INS Jalashwa continuing with the mission to bring back Indian citizens stranded overseas. Jalashwa will embark on getting Indian nationals from Colombo in Sri Lanka on June 20.

Domestic civil aviation operations to begin from May 25 in 'calibrated manner': Hardeep Singh Puri

Indian government, along with Air India and Indian Navy, has started the biggest repatriation operation to bring back the Indians stranded abroad.

A lot of stranded Indians have been brought back home from Doha, Singapore, Kuwait, the UK and the US, and many more countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-bharat-operation-177-indians-brought-back-from-kuwait-297702">Also read:&nbsp;Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait</a>

However, Air India's spokesperson announced that the Air India Express flight IX 374 from Doha which was earlier scheduled to leave Doha at 3:35 pm on Sunday and reach Thiruvananthapuram&nbsp;by 10:45 pm is cancelled.

The revised schedule will be updated later. The reason of the cancellation has not been disclosed yet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizens-aboard-ins-jalashwa-return-from-maldives-as-a-part-of-repatriation-mission-297742">Also read:&nbsp;Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission</a>

It was also announced on Sunday that five Air India pilots tested positive for coronavirus. These pilots fly Boeing 787 planes.&nbsp;

The airlines had asked its pilots to undertake coronavirus&nbsp;test before they operate such flights.

However, as the pilots were tested one after another, the sources have revealed that it might also be a case of faulty test kits.

These pilots had not flown any flight since the last three weeks.&nbsp;"These pilots had operated cargo flights to China prior to April 20," an&nbsp;official said.

Indian government, along with Air India and Indian Navy, has started the biggest repatriation operation to bring back the Indians stranded abroad. A lot of stranded Indians have been brought back home from Doha, Singapore, Kuwait, the UK and the US, and many more countries.

Indian government, along with Air India and Indian Navy, has started the biggest repatriation operation to bring back the Indians stranded abroad. A lot of stranded Indians have been brought back home from Doha, Singapore, Kuwait, the UK and the US, and many more countries. Also read: Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait However, Air India's spokesperson announced that the Air India Express flight IX 374 from Doha which was earlier scheduled to leave Doha at 3:35 pm on Sunday and reach Thiruvananthapuram by 10:45 pm is cancelled. The revised schedule will be updated later. The reason of the cancellation has not been disclosed yet. Also read: Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission It was also announced on Sunday that five Air India pilots tested positive for coronavirus. These pilots fly Boeing 787 planes. The airlines had asked its pilots to undertake coronavirus test before they operate such flights. However, as the pilots were tested one after another, the sources have revealed that it might also be a case of faulty test kits. These pilots had not flown any flight since the last three weeks. "These pilots had operated cargo flights to China prior to April 20," an official said.

Air India Express flight from Doha cancelled; five pilots test positive

Air India's flight from Dhaka, Bangladesh has landed in Delhi. The flight has brought back&nbsp;129 passengers who were stranded in Dhaka.

India commenced its biggest evacuation operation on Thursday. The repatriation operation has been started by government of India with Air India to bring back Indian nationals stranded abroad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-190000-indians-will-be-brought-home-civil-aviation-minister-to-wion-297492">Also read:&nbsp;Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion</a>

The main focus of the Vande Bharat operation is to bring back Indians from the Gulf countries, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Malaysia, Philippines, Bangladesh, the US and the UK.

People stranded in&nbsp;Russia, Germany, Thailand, France, Spain, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan will also be repatriated next week.

First two flights landed in Kerala on Thursday night and brought back more than 550 Indians. Third Air India AI381 flight from Singapore also landed in Delhi around 12pm on Friday.&nbsp;This was followed by a flight from Dhaka, Riyadh and&nbsp;Manama.

Till now, three days after bookings opened, a total of 67,833 requests have been registered for repatriation. The operation is supposed to continue for one more week.

Air India's flight from Dhaka, Bangladesh has landed in Delhi. The flight has brought back 129 passengers who were stranded in Dhaka. India commenced its biggest evacuation operation on Thursday.

Air India's flight from Dhaka, Bangladesh has landed in Delhi. The flight has brought back 129 passengers who were stranded in Dhaka. India commenced its biggest evacuation operation on Thursday. The repatriation operation has been started by government of India with Air India to bring back Indian nationals stranded abroad. Also read: Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion The main focus of the Vande Bharat operation is to bring back Indians from the Gulf countries, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Malaysia, Philippines, Bangladesh, the US and the UK. People stranded in Russia, Germany, Thailand, France, Spain, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan will also be repatriated next week. First two flights landed in Kerala on Thursday night and brought back more than 550 Indians. Third Air India AI381 flight from Singapore also landed in Delhi around 12pm on Friday. This was followed by a flight from Dhaka, Riyadh and Manama. Till now, three days after bookings opened, a total of 67,833 requests have been registered for repatriation. The operation is supposed to continue for one more week.

Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians

An Air India flight landed in&nbsp;Kozhikode around 8pm pm&nbsp;on Friday. The flight brought back around 153 Indian nationals from Riyadh.

Among the 253 passengers, there were 84 pregnant women and 22 children onboard.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-190000-indians-will-be-brought-home-civil-aviation-minister-to-wion-297492">Also read:&nbsp;Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to WION</a>

This was the third flight to land in India today. Air India's AI 381 brought back 234 passengers from Singapore to new Delhi, followed by AI 1242 which landed in Srinagar from Dhaka.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VandeBharatMission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VandeBharatMission</a>: An Air India flight with Indian nationals from Riyadh landed in Kerala's Kozhikode today. Elaborate arrangments have been made at various airports across India incl. the installation of thermal temperature scanning systems for passengers arriving from abroad <a href="https://t.co/XpUkrJ7rqU">pic.twitter.com/XpUkrJ7rqU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1258784622931922949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As a part of this operation, Indian Navy, too, will sail three Navy ships to bring back Indians from abroad. INS Jalashwa has set sail from Maldives and will be bringing back almost 700 Indians back home.

Another flight AI 173 has also landed in the US to bring back Indian nationals from America. The flight landed at 8:30pm on Friday in San Francisco with 80 American nationals onboard. This was the first Indian flight to land in the US after 48 days. The same flight will bring back Indian nationals who have been stranded in the US.

Two more flights, that took off from Dubai, are expected to land soon.

To help the stranded nationals, IndiGo, too, has decided to operate two special flights to help the almost 200 stranded Kenya nationals to reach Mumbai, from where they will be boarding flight for Nairobi.

An Air India flight landed in Kozhikode around 8pm pm on Friday. The flight brought back around 153 Indian nationals from Riyadh. Among the 253 passengers, there were 84 pregnant women and 22 children onboard.

An Air India flight landed in Kozhikode around 8pm pm on Friday. The flight brought back around 153 Indian nationals from Riyadh. Among the 253 passengers, there were 84 pregnant women and 22 children onboard. Also read: Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to WION This was the third flight to land in India today. Air India's AI 381 brought back 234 passengers from Singapore to new Delhi, followed by AI 1242 which landed in Srinagar from Dhaka. #VandeBharatMission: An Air India flight with Indian nationals from Riyadh landed in Kerala's Kozhikode today. Elaborate arrangments have been made at various airports across India incl. the installation of thermal temperature scanning systems for passengers arriving from abroad pic.twitter.com/XpUkrJ7rqU — ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2020 × As a part of this operation, Indian Navy, too, will sail three Navy ships to bring back Indians from abroad. INS Jalashwa has set sail from Maldives and will be bringing back almost 700 Indians back home. Another flight AI 173 has also landed in the US to bring back Indian nationals from America. The flight landed at 8:30pm on Friday in San Francisco with 80 American nationals onboard. This was the first Indian flight to land in the US after 48 days. The same flight will bring back Indian nationals who have been stranded in the US. Two more flights, that took off from Dubai, are expected to land soon. To help the stranded nationals, IndiGo, too, has decided to operate two special flights to help the almost 200 stranded Kenya nationals to reach Mumbai, from where they will be boarding flight for Nairobi.

INS Jalashwa sets sail from Maldives; 700 passengers onboard

Air India has announced that it will resume bookings for evacuation flights for people who wish to travel to London, Singapore and select destinations in the US.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyAI</a> : Important Update for passengers regarding evacuation flights from India. Please visit <a href="https://t.co/FOAixDQ0Qo">https://t.co/FOAixDQ0Qo</a> for details. <a href="https://t.co/O23kcKLVlU">pic.twitter.com/O23kcKLVlU</a>
— Air India (@airindiain) <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain/status/1258084784389017600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The flights will operate from May 08 to May 14. These flights are specifically for people who are stranded and wish to be evacuated. These outgoing flights will have certain rules in place.

Air India will only be allowing the eligible passengers to board the flight. The eligibility will depend on the nationality status with respect to the destination countries, i.e., the passenger should either hold a green card/permanent residency or a one-year valid visa.

The passengers will have to go through thermal screening, compulsorily wear face masks and follow all protocols of social distancing at all times.

The entire cost of the travel will be borne by the passenger. In addition to this, if the passenger is quarantined or deported, he/she will have to bear the entire cost for that too.

The bookings can be made through Air India's official website.

Air India has announced that it will resume bookings for evacuation flights for people who wish to travel to London, Singapore and select destinations in the US.

Air India has announced that it will resume bookings for evacuation flights for people who wish to travel to London, Singapore and select destinations in the US. #FlyAI : Important Update for passengers regarding evacuation flights from India. Please visit https://t.co/FOAixDQ0Qo for details. pic.twitter.com/O23kcKLVlU — Air India (@airindiain) May 6, 2020 × The flights will operate from May 08 to May 14. These flights are specifically for people who are stranded and wish to be evacuated. These outgoing flights will have certain rules in place. Air India will only be allowing the eligible passengers to board the flight. The eligibility will depend on the nationality status with respect to the destination countries, i.e., the passenger should either hold a green card/permanent residency or a one-year valid visa. The passengers will have to go through thermal screening, compulsorily wear face masks and follow all protocols of social distancing at all times. The entire cost of the travel will be borne by the passenger. In addition to this, if the passenger is quarantined or deported, he/she will have to bear the entire cost for that too. The bookings can be made through Air India's official website.

Air India starts bookings for London, Singapore and the US

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon.

Air India Express IX419 is being used for the biggest repatriation operation of the Indian government to bring back the&nbsp;Indian nationals stranded in the Gulf countries due to the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-samudra-setu-ins-jalashwa-set-to-evacuate-stranded-indians-from-maldives-297209">Also read:&nbsp;Operation Samudra Setu: INS Jalashwa set to evacuate stranded Indians from Maldives</a>

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1st flight with 175 stranded Indians from abroad will land in Kochi from Abu Dhabi at around 2140 hrs. The second flight will also be to Kerala, having 175 stranded Indians. 
 
Location of pic: India's operation room, Dubai<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> <a href="https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de">https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de</a> <a href="https://t.co/ARJTc71i3u">pic.twitter.com/ARJTc71i3u</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1258342149373952001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The first flight will land in Kerala&nbsp;around 9:40pm. The Kochi flight is bringing back 175 Indian nationals from Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;The second flight will also bring 175 stranded Indians from Dubai to Kozhikode, and will land around 10:30pm.

Air India will continue the rescue operation for Indians stranded in&nbsp;Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Philippines, UAE, Bangladesh, the US and the UK.

However, the focus remains on the Gulf countries, where around 3 lakh people are stranded, according to reports.

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Repatriation of Indian nationals begins from UAE<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid</a> <a href="https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo">https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo</a> <a href="https://t.co/rKCuADft7E">pic.twitter.com/rKCuADft7E</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1258360615246200832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shramik-trains-over-163-run-so-far-more-than-160-lakh-migrants-ferried-297207">Also read:&nbsp;Shramik Trains: Over 163 run so far, more than 1.60 lakh migrants ferried</a>

Around 14,600 citizens are expected to be brought back to the country in 64 flights within the first week of the operation.

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United Arab Emirates: 177 Indians, including 4 infants have boarded their flight from Abu Dhabi for Kochi, Kerala. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VandeBharatMission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VandeBharatMission</a> <a href="https://t.co/8d5a4OrYO9">pic.twitter.com/8d5a4OrYO9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1258382635497209859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Around 60 pilots and 120 cabin crew members are providing their services in the&nbsp;operation. All the staff members and the workers have been asked to practice precaution and wear PPE suits during the flight.

Before take-off, passengers will be provided with two face masks, one 100ml sanitiser bottle, a snack box and a bottle of water at their respective seats. &nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon.

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon. Air India Express IX419 is being used for the biggest repatriation operation of the Indian government to bring back the Indian nationals stranded in the Gulf countries due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Operation Samudra Setu: INS Jalashwa set to evacuate stranded Indians from Maldives 1st flight with 175 stranded Indians from abroad will land in Kochi from Abu Dhabi at around 2140 hrs. The second flight will also be to Kerala, having 175 stranded Indians. Location of pic: India's operation room, Dubai#COVID https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de pic.twitter.com/ARJTc71i3u — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 7, 2020 × The first flight will land in Kerala around 9:40pm. The Kochi flight is bringing back 175 Indian nationals from Abu Dhabi. The second flight will also bring 175 stranded Indians from Dubai to Kozhikode, and will land around 10:30pm. Air India will continue the rescue operation for Indians stranded in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Philippines, UAE, Bangladesh, the US and the UK. However, the focus remains on the Gulf countries, where around 3 lakh people are stranded, according to reports. Repatriation of Indian nationals begins from UAE#Covid https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo pic.twitter.com/rKCuADft7E — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 7, 2020 × Also read: Shramik Trains: Over 163 run so far, more than 1.60 lakh migrants ferried Around 14,600 citizens are expected to be brought back to the country in 64 flights within the first week of the operation. United Arab Emirates: 177 Indians, including 4 infants have boarded their flight from Abu Dhabi for Kochi, Kerala. #VandeBharatMission pic.twitter.com/8d5a4OrYO9 — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Around 60 pilots and 120 cabin crew members are providing their services in the operation. All the staff members and the workers have been asked to practice precaution and wear PPE suits during the flight. Before take-off, passengers will be provided with two face masks, one 100ml sanitiser bottle, a snack box and a bottle of water at their respective seats. (With inputs from ANI)

India's biggest repatriation operation begins; Air India flight to land in Kochi tonight

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country.

Sadly, the Air India crew has been subjected to societal problems since the start of the virus in India. As Air India employes have had to write a letter to the authorities again, this time the problem is not from the society. Air India employees write a letter to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puri, requesting him to intervene and stop the salary cuts of the employees.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exemplary-act-spicejet-to-airlift-boxer-dingko-singh-from-imphal-to-delhi-for-cancer-treatment-receives-plaudits-from-kiren-rijiju-294502">Also read:&nbsp;Exemplary act': SpiceJet to airlift boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi for cancer treatment; receives plaudits from Kiren Rijiju</a>

"We the employees of Air India and its subsidiaries are writing to you at the backdrop of unilateral pay cut imposed on employees of Air India Ltd for three months against the government's instructions. While all the PSU's are following the directions of the Government, it is agonizing to note Air India has imposed pay cut in wake of COVID- 19 crisis. It is explicitly reflected as COVID-19 pay cut in March 2020 salary slip," the letter reads.

The letter was written as the employees received a 10 per cent&nbsp;salary cut in the salary that was credited to their accounts on April 18. The employees believe that after running several relief flights for the nation, this&nbsp;pay cut, in such tough times,&nbsp;will negatively affect their morale.&nbsp;

"In spite of instructions from the Government of India, concerning the welfare of the employees and directions to make payment of wages on the due date, the management of Air India defaulted on timely payment of salary which was paid on 18th April 2020 with a 10 percent pay cut. The Flying crew are yet to receive 70 percent of their wages for the work done in the month of February 2020," the letter reads.

"We request you to countermand Air India Committee's decision on COVID pay cut which is against the Government Directives and also treat us at par with other PSU's during lockdown," requested the employees. They also requested for government support on all fronts so that they employees can keep continuing helping the nation through their relief missions.

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country.

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country. Sadly, the Air India crew has been subjected to societal problems since the start of the virus in India. As Air India employes have had to write a letter to the authorities again, this time the problem is not from the society. Air India employees write a letter to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puri, requesting him to intervene and stop the salary cuts of the employees. Also read: Exemplary act': SpiceJet to airlift boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi for cancer treatment; receives plaudits from Kiren Rijiju "We the employees of Air India and its subsidiaries are writing to you at the backdrop of unilateral pay cut imposed on employees of Air India Ltd for three months against the government's instructions. While all the PSU's are following the directions of the Government, it is agonizing to note Air India has imposed pay cut in wake of COVID- 19 crisis. It is explicitly reflected as COVID-19 pay cut in March 2020 salary slip," the letter reads. The letter was written as the employees received a 10 per cent salary cut in the salary that was credited to their accounts on April 18. The employees believe that after running several relief flights for the nation, this pay cut, in such tough times, will negatively affect their morale. "In spite of instructions from the Government of India, concerning the welfare of the employees and directions to make payment of wages on the due date, the management of Air India defaulted on timely payment of salary which was paid on 18th April 2020 with a 10 percent pay cut. The Flying crew are yet to receive 70 percent of their wages for the work done in the month of February 2020," the letter reads. "We request you to countermand Air India Committee's decision on COVID pay cut which is against the Government Directives and also treat us at par with other PSU's during lockdown," requested the employees. They also requested for government support on all fronts so that they employees can keep continuing helping the nation through their relief missions.

Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene

Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday clarified that no decision has been taken to open domestic/ international operations. Airlines are advised to open their bookings only after a decision in this regard has been taken by the government, tweeted Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Hardeep S Puri.

Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday clarified that no decision has been taken to open domestic/ international operations. Airlines are advised to open their bookings only after a decision in this regard has been taken by the government, tweeted Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Hardeep S Puri. The Ministry of Civil Aviation clarifies that so far no decision has been taken to open domestic or international operations. Airlines are advised to open their bookings only after a decision in this regard has been taken by the Government.@MoCA_GoI @DGCAIndia @AAI_Official — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) April 18, 2020 × The statement came after reports emerged that national carrier Air India has opened bookings for select domestic flights from May 4 onwards and also for international flights from June 1. In a notification on its website, Air India said, " In the light of the ongoing global health concerns, we have currently stopped accepting booking on all domestic flights for travel till 03rd May 2020 and on all international flights for travel till 31st May 2020". "Bookings for select domestic flights for travel from 04th May 2020 and for international flights for travel 01st June 2020 onwards are OPEN," Air India said. Air India further said that the situation is being constantly reviewed and the customers shall be updated regularly.

No decision on domestic/international operations: Ministry of Civil Aviation

The government on Wednesday allowed NRIs to control up to 100 per cent stake in disinvestment-bound Air India.

The decision comes at a time when the government has sought preliminary bids for 100 per cent stake sale in the national carrier.

"Today's decision on Air India is one milestone decision where NRIs... Will get permission to invest 100 per cent in the airline," Union Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters briefing about the cabinet decision.

Non-resident Indians (NRIs), who are Indian nationals, will get permission to participate in Air India's strategic sale. Earlier, they were allowed to own up to 49 per cent stake, the minister said.

"Now they can take 100 per cent," he added. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The government on Wednesday allowed NRIs to control up to 100 per cent stake in disinvestment-bound Air India. The decision comes at a time when the government has sought preliminary bids for 100 per cent stake sale in the national carrier.

The government on Wednesday allowed NRIs to control up to 100 per cent stake in disinvestment-bound Air India. The decision comes at a time when the government has sought preliminary bids for 100 per cent stake sale in the national carrier. "Today's decision on Air India is one milestone decision where NRIs... Will get permission to invest 100 per cent in the airline," Union Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters briefing about the cabinet decision. Non-resident Indians (NRIs), who are Indian nationals, will get permission to participate in Air India's strategic sale. Earlier, they were allowed to own up to 49 per cent stake, the minister said. "Now they can take 100 per cent," he added. (With inputs from PTI)

Govt allows NRIs to own up to 100% stake in Air India

Air India has raised a bill of almost Rs 6 crore for evacuating 647 people from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus. The minister of state in the Ministry of External Affairs V.

Air India has raised a bill of almost Rs 6 crore for evacuating 647 people from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus. The minister of state in the Ministry of External Affairs V. Muraleedharan in response to a question in Lok Sabha said, "Air India has raised a bill of Rs. 5,98,90,352/- for operating two special flights to China." The state carrier spent Rs 92,566.23 on each of the 647 people to evacuate them from China, worst impacted by Coronavirus. Air India's two special flights were sent to Wuhan on January 31st and February 1st to evacuate 640 Indians and 7 Maldivians. India had sent three flights to evacuate its citizens and many foreigners from Wuhan. Barring the two Air India flight, an Air Force C17 was sent in the last week of February to evacuate more people. "An Indian Airforce flight carrying relief material to China also carried Indian citizens from Wuhan, China on its return journey. Expenditure details are yet to be received from the Ministry of Defence."Muraleedharan said. Government of India evacuated a total of 766 persons, including 723 Indian nationals and 43 foreigners from China. 119 Indians have been brought back to India from the cruise ship Diamond princesses which was quarantined off the coast of Japan.

Air India raises Rs 6 crore bill for evacuating 647 from coronavirus epicentre Wuhan

Special flights of the IAF and Air India evacuated foreigners and Indians from coronavirus-hit Wuhan in China and cruise ship in Japan. Union Health Minister Harshwardhan said that we are trying our best to evacuate Indians from Wuhan.

Coronavirus Updates: IAF, Air India carry out Evacuations

WION Wings: Air India scripts history | WION News | World News

At a time European aircraft manufacturer, Airbus, is embroiled in a global bribery scandal and the settlement of multi-nation investigations, Indian agencies have intensified a probe to see if $2.2 billion Airbus aircraft sale to Indian national carrier known as Indian Airlines before the merger in 2006 involved any bribes.&nbsp;

Reports say Enforcement Directorate (ED) is inspecting payment of $20 million or Rs 1.42 billion linked to the 2006 purchase of 43 aircraft by Indian Airlines.

The probe began as a police investigation in 2010. Post the beginning of the probe, a team was sent to Europe to question Airbus executives, as well as, the government merged the domestic operations of the National Carrier, operated under the brand Indian Airlines with flag-carrier Air India in 2007.&nbsp;

The agency is also probing the commitment made as a part of the contract to provide aircraft-overhaul facilities that were never built. 
 
In a global bribery settlement that resulted in record losses for Airbus in 2019, the European planemaker has agreed to around $4 billion dollar for years of illegal payments to key executives.&nbsp;

The Indian Airlines order for A320-series narrow-body planes was placed in 2006. Reports say that Enforcement Directorate is seeking help from authorities in France, as well as, where Airbus is based in Toulouse. Airbus has reported losses of $1.4 billion for 2019 due to this bribery settlement.&nbsp;

At a time European aircraft manufacturer, Airbus, is embroiled in a global bribery scandal and the settlement of multi-nation investigations, Indian agencies have intensified a probe to see if $2.

At a time European aircraft manufacturer, Airbus, is embroiled in a global bribery scandal and the settlement of multi-nation investigations, Indian agencies have intensified a probe to see if $2.2 billion Airbus aircraft sale to Indian national carrier known as Indian Airlines before the merger in 2006 involved any bribes. Reports say Enforcement Directorate (ED) is inspecting payment of $20 million or Rs 1.42 billion linked to the 2006 purchase of 43 aircraft by Indian Airlines. The probe began as a police investigation in 2010. Post the beginning of the probe, a team was sent to Europe to question Airbus executives, as well as, the government merged the domestic operations of the National Carrier, operated under the brand Indian Airlines with flag-carrier Air India in 2007. The agency is also probing the commitment made as a part of the contract to provide aircraft-overhaul facilities that were never built. In a global bribery settlement that resulted in record losses for Airbus in 2019, the European planemaker has agreed to around $4 billion dollar for years of illegal payments to key executives. The Indian Airlines order for A320-series narrow-body planes was placed in 2006. Reports say that Enforcement Directorate is seeking help from authorities in France, as well as, where Airbus is based in Toulouse. Airbus has reported losses of $1.4 billion for 2019 due to this bribery settlement.

India steps up probe into 2006 sale of Airbus aircraft to Indian Airlines

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../latest-south-asia-news-india-rescues-7- maldivians-from-wuhan-under-neighbourhood-first-policy-278298">Air India</a> crew onboard the two special flights that evacuated more than 600 Indians from the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan has been sent on a week-long leave, an Air India spokesperson said on Monday.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-evacuation-650-indians-brought-back-6-with-fever-snubbed-278248">Wuhan evacuation: 650 Indians brought back, 6 with fever 'snubbed'</a>

The two special flights had returned to New Delhi carrying as many as 647 Indians and 7 Maldivians on Saturday and Sunday from Wuhan - a Chinese city of more than 11 million people which has been the epicentre of the new strain of coronavirus.

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A total of 64 people were involved in the evacuation operations. These included 30 cabin crew, 8 pilots, 10 commercial staff of Air India and one senior officer from AI CMD Secretariat, the spokesperson said.

The team was led by Air India's Director of Operations, Captain Amitabh Singh.

Those evacuated from Wuhan have been sent to quarantine facilities in Manesar and Chhawla managed by the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) respectively.

The Air India crew onboard the two special flights that evacuated more than 600 Indians from the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan has been sent on a week-long leave, an Air India spokesperson said on Monday.

The Air India crew onboard the two special flights that evacuated more than 600 Indians from the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan has been sent on a week-long leave, an Air India spokesperson said on Monday. Also read- Wuhan evacuation: 650 Indians brought back, 6 with fever 'snubbed' The two special flights had returned to New Delhi carrying as many as 647 Indians and 7 Maldivians on Saturday and Sunday from Wuhan - a Chinese city of more than 11 million people which has been the epicentre of the new strain of coronavirus. × A total of 64 people were involved in the evacuation operations. These included 30 cabin crew, 8 pilots, 10 commercial staff of Air India and one senior officer from AI CMD Secretariat, the spokesperson said. The team was led by Air India's Director of Operations, Captain Amitabh Singh. Those evacuated from Wuhan have been sent to quarantine facilities in Manesar and Chhawla managed by the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) respectively.

Air India's Wuhan evacuation crew given leave for one week

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-air-india-plane-carrying-323-indians-takes-off-from-chinas-wuhan-278090">Second Air India plane carrying 323 Indians takes off from China's Wuhan</a>

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Yesterday, a special Air India flight carrying 324 Indians who were stranded in China's Wuhan has landed in New Delhi. This comes as the total number of suspected coronavirus cases in India rises to eight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-coronavirus-infections-hit-daily-record-deaths-climb-to-304-278085">China's coronavirus infections hit daily record, deaths climb to 304</a>

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The death toll from the coronavirus outbreak in China had reached 304 as of the end of Saturday, state broadcaster CCTV said on Sunday, citing the country's National Health Commission.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-mexico-el-chapos-daughter-ties-knot-in-state-cathedral-278089">In Mexico, "El Chapo's" daughter ties knot in state cathedral</a>

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Alejandrina Gisselle Guzman married Edgar Cazares, the nephew of Blanca Margarita Cazares, Mexican newspaper Reforma reported on Saturday, in the heartland of Mexico's powerful Sinaloa Cartel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-march-on-with-4-0-rout-of-southampton-278086">Liverpool march on with 4-0 rout of Southampton</a>

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It was Liverpool's 20th successive home win dating back to last season, matching Manchester City's record set between March 2011 and March 2012.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/joker-leads-the-pack-at-bafta-awards-278093">'Joker' leads the pack at BAFTA awards</a>

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Hollywood stars will pack the Royal Albert Hall in London for the glitzy bash, where Joaquin Phoenix and Renee Zellweger are tipped to scoop the main acting awards.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2020-budget-whats-in-it-for-you-gravitas-278080">Watch:&nbsp;2020 Budget: What's in it for you? | Gravitas</a>

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Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Second Air India plane carrying 323 Indians takes off from China's Wuhan Yesterday, a special Air India flight carrying 324 Indians who were stranded in China's Wuhan has landed in New Delhi.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Second Air India plane carrying 323 Indians takes off from China's Wuhan Yesterday, a special Air India flight carrying 324 Indians who were stranded in China's Wuhan has landed in New Delhi. This comes as the total number of suspected coronavirus cases in India rises to eight. China's coronavirus infections hit daily record, deaths climb to 304 The death toll from the coronavirus outbreak in China had reached 304 as of the end of Saturday, state broadcaster CCTV said on Sunday, citing the country's National Health Commission. In Mexico, "El Chapo's" daughter ties knot in state cathedral Alejandrina Gisselle Guzman married Edgar Cazares, the nephew of Blanca Margarita Cazares, Mexican newspaper Reforma reported on Saturday, in the heartland of Mexico's powerful Sinaloa Cartel. Liverpool march on with 4-0 rout of Southampton It was Liverpool's 20th successive home win dating back to last season, matching Manchester City's record set between March 2011 and March 2012. 'Joker' leads the pack at BAFTA awards Hollywood stars will pack the Royal Albert Hall in London for the glitzy bash, where Joaquin Phoenix and Renee Zellweger are tipped to scoop the main acting awards. Watch: 2020 Budget: What's in it for you? | Gravitas ×

Morning News Brief: India  evacuates more Indians from China's Wuhan, Coronavirus toll, and more

The special Air India plane carrying 323 Indian citizens along with seven Maldives citizens, evacuated from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus, landed at Delhi Airport on Sunday morning, bringing the total number of Indians evacuated from the coronavirus-hit city to 647.

The flight carrying the first batch of Indians had landed at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-air-india-plane-carrying-323-indians-takes-off-from-chinas-wuhan-278090">Indira Gandhi International Airport</a> in Delhi on Saturday.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Indian nationals and 7 Maldives nationals who arrived in Delhi by the second Air India special flight from Wuhan , China today, being taken to Indian Army quarantine centre. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a> <a href="https://t.co/loJEPqQJPO">https://t.co/loJEPqQJPO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1223848566499627009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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All the Indians who have returned from Wuhan which is the epicentre of coronavirus outbreak have been quarantined in the Indo Tibetan Border Police ( ITBP) facility in Delhi and defence facility at Manesar.

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Of the 324 passengers, three were minors and 211 were students.

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Delhi: 323 Indian nationals and 7 Maldives nationals who arrived in Delhi by the second Air India special flight from Wuhan, China today, being taken to quarantine centres set up by Indian Army and ITBP. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a> <a href="https://t.co/lrnY1weBNt">pic.twitter.com/lrnY1weBNt</a>
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The virus originated in Wuhan in December last year and has since then spread to various cities around the world.

Several countries including India have sped up the evacuation process after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak as a global health crisis.&nbsp;

The special Air India plane carrying 323 Indian citizens along with seven Maldives citizens, evacuated from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus, landed at Delhi Airport on Sunday morning, bringing the total number of Indians evacuated from the coronavirus-hit city to 647.

The special Air India plane carrying 323 Indian citizens along with seven Maldives citizens, evacuated from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus, landed at Delhi Airport on Sunday morning, bringing the total number of Indians evacuated from the coronavirus-hit city to 647. The flight carrying the first batch of Indians had landed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Saturday. Delhi: Indian nationals and 7 Maldives nationals who arrived in Delhi by the second Air India special flight from Wuhan , China today, being taken to Indian Army quarantine centre. #Coronavirus https://t.co/loJEPqQJPO — ANI (@ANI) February 2, 2020 × All the Indians who have returned from Wuhan which is the epicentre of coronavirus outbreak have been quarantined in the Indo Tibetan Border Police ( ITBP) facility in Delhi and defence facility at Manesar. × Of the 324 passengers, three were minors and 211 were students. Delhi: 323 Indian nationals and 7 Maldives nationals who arrived in Delhi by the second Air India special flight from Wuhan, China today, being taken to quarantine centres set up by Indian Army and ITBP. #Coronavirus pic.twitter.com/lrnY1weBNt — ANI (@ANI) February 2, 2020 × The virus originated in Wuhan in December last year and has since then spread to various cities around the world. Several countries including India have sped up the evacuation process after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak as a global health crisis.

Air India flight carrying 323 Indians, 7 Maldivians evacuated from Wuhan lands in Delhi

A second Air India flight carrying 323 Indians has taken off from China's Wuhan. The flight will be landing in Delhi in a short while. The plane is also carrying seven Maldivians.

A second Air India flight carrying 323 Indians has taken off from China's Wuhan. The flight will be landing in Delhi in a short while. The plane is also carrying seven Maldivians. This is the second phase of evacuation drive carried out by India in the coronavirus-hit Wuhan. Yesterday, a special Air India flight carrying 324 Indians who were stranded in China's Wuhan has landed in New Delhi. This comes as the total number of suspected coronavirus cases in India rises to eight. The passengers have been screened for coronavirus, by a joint team of airport health authority and armed forces medical services. Health officials said that the passengers were doing fine. However, not all Indians were allowed to board the plane. 6 Indians were offloaded in Wuhan as they had high temperatures. All the Indians who have returned from Wuhan which is the epicentre of coronavirus outbreak will be quarantined in the Indo Tibetan Border Police ( ITBP) facility in Delhi and defence facility at Manesar. The evacuees most of whom are students, will be kept in isolation wards for at least 14 days. The 324 passengers comprise 211 students, 110 working professionals and four minors.

Second Air India plane carrying 323 Indians takes off from China's Wuhan

An Air India team is braving the threat of the deadly coronavirus to rescue Indians from Wuhan. WION's Palki tells you all about the heroes who have taken this mission.

Gravitas: Meet India's Wuhan Heroes

Air India special flight departing from Delhi on Friday will evacuate around 400 Indians trapped in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-fears-grip-chinas-borders-families-of-uk-citizens-barred-from-departing-as-they-hold-chinese-passports-277484">coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan</a>, the national carrier's Chairman and Managing Director Ashwani Lohani said.

Lohani said that the Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft will take off at 12 pm from Delhi today and will return by 2 am on Saturday. "We are sending a Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft. Around 400 Indians will be evacuated today from Wuhan in China by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-disinvestment-begins-modi-govt-invites-bids-for-100-stake-sale-276796">Air India</a> flight. It will take off at 12 pm today and will return by 2 am tomorrow," he added.

<img alt="CMD Ashwani Lohani" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40457b0e-386f-4ade-b624-2a28836753a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2824%29_4.jpg" /> 
[ Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Managing Director, Air India (Courtesy: ANI) ]

The flight will include all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-has-to-be-privatised-no-other-option-hardeep-puri-271260">necessary </a>resources like masks, medical equipment, packed food, prescribed medicines, along with a team of five doctors from the Health Ministry, and paramedical personnel from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/government-puts-100-of-air-india-on-sale-277092">Air India</a>. Twenty crew members, including 15 cabin crew and five cockpit crew will be on board. Lohani said that the team of doctors and crew will be led by Air India's Director of Operations Captain Amitabh Singh.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-indigo-air-india-suspend-most-china-bound-flights-no-case-in-india-yet-277405">Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet</a>

Lohani said that further arrangements for the passengers upon their return to India will be done by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Health Ministry. China has imposed a lockdown in Wuhan following the outbreak of the virus.

Coronavirus has claimed the lives of as many as 213 people in China alone, while cases have been reported in several countries across the world. Health authorities around the world are taking action to prevent a global pandemic as the virus continues to spread, with cases reported in Australia, France, the US, and several Asian countries besides China

Air India special flight departing from Delhi on Friday will evacuate around 400 Indians trapped in the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan, the national carrier's Chairman and Managing Director Ashwani Lohani said.

Air India special flight departing from Delhi on Friday will evacuate around 400 Indians trapped in the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan, the national carrier's Chairman and Managing Director Ashwani Lohani said. Lohani said that the Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft will take off at 12 pm from Delhi today and will return by 2 am on Saturday. "We are sending a Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft. Around 400 Indians will be evacuated today from Wuhan in China by Air India flight. It will take off at 12 pm today and will return by 2 am tomorrow," he added. [ Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Managing Director, Air India (Courtesy: ANI) ] The flight will include all necessary resources like masks, medical equipment, packed food, prescribed medicines, along with a team of five doctors from the Health Ministry, and paramedical personnel from Air India. Twenty crew members, including 15 cabin crew and five cockpit crew will be on board. Lohani said that the team of doctors and crew will be led by Air India's Director of Operations Captain Amitabh Singh. Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet Lohani said that further arrangements for the passengers upon their return to India will be done by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Health Ministry. China has imposed a lockdown in Wuhan following the outbreak of the virus. Coronavirus has claimed the lives of as many as 213 people in China alone, while cases have been reported in several countries across the world. Health authorities around the world are taking action to prevent a global pandemic as the virus continues to spread, with cases reported in Australia, France, the US, and several Asian countries besides China

Air India CMD says around 400 Indians to be evacuated from Wuhan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india.../indias-gita-sabharwal-appointed-as-un- resident-coordinator-in-thailand-277450">India</a>&nbsp;will operate two flights to evacuate its&nbsp;citizens from the epicentre of coronavirus in Wuhan in China.

Also Read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-china-accepts-indias-request-to-evacuate-nationals-from-wuhan-277138">Coronavirus: China accepts India's request to evacuate nationals from Wuhan</a>

According to the Ministry of Health, Only those without any symptoms of flu are to be evacuated with mandatory isolation of 28 days instead of 14 days incubation period in the country. 
&nbsp; 
India is also preparing isolation wards in Manesar,&nbsp;near Delhi.&nbsp;The government will be evacuating around&nbsp;300 citizens.&nbsp;

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The wards have been set up by the defence and labour ministries along with the Indo-Tibetan border police.

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The government plans to quarantine most of the evacuees from China at the Defence Facility in Manesar, as it located far from residential areas.

Isolation wards have also been set up in Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospital.

Patients' samples will be tested at the National Institute of Virology in Pune.

Let's also understand the evacuation plan.

300 Indian citizens including 200 students will be evacuated from Wuhan. However, only those with no symptoms will be allowed to leave China.

Two aircraft will be deployed for the mission. The staff will wear special protective gear and N-95 masks to avoid contracting the infection.

The evacuation will begin once India gets a clearance from China.

Meanwhile, joining a slew of international airlines, Air India and indigo have also suspended all flights to China.

India will operate two flights to evacuate its citizens from the epicentre of coronavirus in Wuhan in China. Also Read- Coronavirus: China accepts India's request to evacuate nationals from Wuhan According to the Ministry of Health, Only those without any symptoms of flu are to be evacuated with mandatory isolation of 28 days instead of 14 days incubation period in the country.

India will operate two flights to evacuate its citizens from the epicentre of coronavirus in Wuhan in China. Also Read- Coronavirus: China accepts India's request to evacuate nationals from Wuhan According to the Ministry of Health, Only those without any symptoms of flu are to be evacuated with mandatory isolation of 28 days instead of 14 days incubation period in the country. India is also preparing isolation wards in Manesar, near Delhi. The government will be evacuating around 300 citizens. × The wards have been set up by the defence and labour ministries along with the Indo-Tibetan border police. × The government plans to quarantine most of the evacuees from China at the Defence Facility in Manesar, as it located far from residential areas. Isolation wards have also been set up in Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospital. Patients' samples will be tested at the National Institute of Virology in Pune. Let's also understand the evacuation plan. 300 Indian citizens including 200 students will be evacuated from Wuhan. However, only those with no symptoms will be allowed to leave China. Two aircraft will be deployed for the mission. The staff will wear special protective gear and N-95 masks to avoid contracting the infection. The evacuation will begin once India gets a clearance from China. Meanwhile, joining a slew of international airlines, Air India and indigo have also suspended all flights to China.

Coronavirus outbreak: India preparing to evacuate 300 citizens stuck in Wuhan

Air India is up for sale again. The government is inviting bids for a 100% stake.

Gravitas: Indian Government puts up Air India for sale, again

The airline is sitting on a debt pile of around Rs 58,000 crore, besides huge accumulated losses running into thousands of crores. Currently, the Government of India holds a 100 per cent stake in the airline, and its subsidiary Air India Express.

Government puts 100% of Air India on sale

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