Singapore Airlines Ltd said on Monday that it had secured about $1 billion in credit facilities, in addition to the S$8.8 billion ($6.32 billion) it recently raised from a rights issue, to help it weather the COVID-19 pandemic.

Global airlines have taken a huge blow as curbs imposed to stop the spread of the coronavirus led to a plunge in travel demand, leading to a liquidity crisis at firms. Singapore Airlines` total financing is among the biggest raised by any carrier amid the global health crisis.

Singapore Airlines said it had raised S$900 million through loans on some of its aircraft. It had also arranged new lines of credit and a short-term loan with several banks for further liquidity of more than S$500 million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/singapore-plans-a-coronavirus-contact-tracing-device-for-all-to-wear-303495">Also read:&nbsp;Singapore plans a coronavirus contact tracing device for all to wear</a>

"During this period of high uncertainty, SIA will continue to explore additional means to shore up liquidity as necessary," the company said in a statement.

On June 5, the company raised about S$8.8 billion through a rights issue, which was backed by existing shareholder Temasek Holdings [TEM.UL].

Singapore Airlines added that the maturity dates for some of its debts had been extended to 2021 or later, ensuring an available liquidity of more than S$1.7 billion.

The company also has the option to raise up to a further S$6.2 billion in additional mandatory convertible bonds until up to July 2021.

Singapore Airlines Ltd said on Monday that it had secured about $1 billion in credit facilities, in addition to the S$8.8 billion ($6.32 billion) it recently raised from a rights issue, to help it weather the COVID-19 pandemic.

Singapore Airlines Ltd said on Monday that it had secured about $1 billion in credit facilities, in addition to the S$8.8 billion ($6.32 billion) it recently raised from a rights issue, to help it weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Global airlines have taken a huge blow as curbs imposed to stop the spread of the coronavirus led to a plunge in travel demand, leading to a liquidity crisis at firms. Singapore Airlines` total financing is among the biggest raised by any carrier amid the global health crisis. Singapore Airlines said it had raised S$900 million through loans on some of its aircraft. It had also arranged new lines of credit and a short-term loan with several banks for further liquidity of more than S$500 million. Also read: Singapore plans a coronavirus contact tracing device for all to wear "During this period of high uncertainty, SIA will continue to explore additional means to shore up liquidity as necessary," the company said in a statement. On June 5, the company raised about S$8.8 billion through a rights issue, which was backed by existing shareholder Temasek Holdings [TEM.UL]. Singapore Airlines added that the maturity dates for some of its debts had been extended to 2021 or later, ensuring an available liquidity of more than S$1.7 billion. The company also has the option to raise up to a further S$6.2 billion in additional mandatory convertible bonds until up to July 2021.

Singapore Airlines secures $1 billion additional credit after rights issue

Pakistan will resume domestic flights in a phased manner from Saturday after the government eased some of the restrictions imposed following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country that has claimed the lives of over 800 people.

The Pakistan government last week said that it would begin a phased lifting of the lockdown due to its effect on the economy and the workforce.

Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) announced to resume the domestic flights operations from Saturday, The Express Tribune reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-generals-confess-abusing-prisoners-in-rakhine-state-298737">Also read:&nbsp;Myanmar army generals confess abusing prisoners in Rakhine state</a>

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Serene Air will operate flights in the morning and afternoon. 
It said that 68 flights will operate from Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, 32 from Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, 32 from Islamabad International Airport, eight from Quetta International Airport and four from Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, the nationwide tally of the coronavirus cases on Friday soared to 37,218 after 1,430 new cases were reported.

A total of 10,155 patients have so far recovered from the virus. The total number of COVID-19 deaths in the country also reached 803 with 33 new fatalities reported during the last 24 hours.

Punjab province reported 13,914 cases, Sindh 14,099, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 5,423, Balochistan 2,310, Islamabad 866, Gilgit-Baltistan 501 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 105.

So far, 344,450 tests have been conducted, including 13,700 during the last 24 hours.

After easing the restrictions for the last four days, the Punjab government on Friday imposed a three-day lockdown throughout the province.

All markets across the province will remain closed except the grocery stores which will remain open from 9am to 5pm. Medical stores will operate even after 5pm.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan joined a call by world leaders for a "peoples' vaccine" to combat the coronavirus.

"We must work together to beat this virus," the Prime Minister's Office quoted Khan as saying.&nbsp;

Pakistan will resume domestic flights in a phased manner from Saturday after the government eased some of the restrictions imposed following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country that has claimed the lives of over 800 people.

Pakistan will resume domestic flights in a phased manner from Saturday after the government eased some of the restrictions imposed following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country that has claimed the lives of over 800 people. The Pakistan government last week said that it would begin a phased lifting of the lockdown due to its effect on the economy and the workforce. Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) announced to resume the domestic flights operations from Saturday, The Express Tribune reported. Also read: Myanmar army generals confess abusing prisoners in Rakhine state Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Serene Air will operate flights in the morning and afternoon. It said that 68 flights will operate from Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, 32 from Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, 32 from Islamabad International Airport, eight from Quetta International Airport and four from Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, the nationwide tally of the coronavirus cases on Friday soared to 37,218 after 1,430 new cases were reported. A total of 10,155 patients have so far recovered from the virus. The total number of COVID-19 deaths in the country also reached 803 with 33 new fatalities reported during the last 24 hours. Punjab province reported 13,914 cases, Sindh 14,099, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 5,423, Balochistan 2,310, Islamabad 866, Gilgit-Baltistan 501 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 105. So far, 344,450 tests have been conducted, including 13,700 during the last 24 hours. After easing the restrictions for the last four days, the Punjab government on Friday imposed a three-day lockdown throughout the province. All markets across the province will remain closed except the grocery stores which will remain open from 9am to 5pm. Medical stores will operate even after 5pm. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan joined a call by world leaders for a "peoples' vaccine" to combat the coronavirus. "We must work together to beat this virus," the Prime Minister's Office quoted Khan as saying.

Pakistan to resume domestic flights from Saturday

Middle East state carriers Emirates and Etihad Airways say it could take three years for air travel demand to return to levels seen just before the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. - UAE business council hosted a video conference with Emirates President Tim Clark and Etihad Chief Executive Tony Douglas on Wednesday, it said.

Emirates, Etihad say recovery in aviation sector could take three years

British Airways is set to cut more than a quarter of its jobs due to the coronavirus crisis, forecasting that passenger numbers will take years to return to 2019 levels. British Airways has 45,000 employees, including 16,500 cabin crew and 3,900 pilots, according to its website.

British Airways plans to cut up to 12,000 jobs | COVID-19 Pandemic

Global aviation industry isbeing hammered because of the coronavirus outbreak. The Qatar Airways is now at risk of bankruptcy.

Global aviation industry hammered, Qatar Airways at risk of bankruptcy

Visiting Thailand or Dubai was cheaper than flying to Goa or Kerala a few months ago. The ultra-low or the budget airfares resulted in&nbsp;a travel boom and it helped in turning the dreams of foreign holidays into reality for many.&nbsp;

From Mauritius to Malaysia, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-mulls-up-to-16-billion-rescue-plan-for-aviation-sector-after-coronavirus-287453">budget or low airfares</a> enticed many to explore the new holiday destinations with millions in India and overseas flying for the first time. But with the coronavirus pandemic striking travel and aviation world, the dreams of many for foreign holidays may be over for now or delayed indefinitely.&nbsp;

From low-cost pocket-friendly carriers to full-service airlines, no one in the aviation world was prepared for a global crisis of this scale. Coronavirus pandemic has broken the backbone of the aviation industry and with this, it may be a long-lasting goodbye to the popular super saver airfare schemes or pocket-friendly budget airfare schemes.

Analysts point out with the global travel and tourism industry taking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/banking-systems-may-need-help-if-handicapped-by-disruption-from-coronavirus-lockdowns-imf-289804">a massive hit</a>, the aviation industry might be limited to the essential air or business and need-based travel for some time to come. The low-cost airfares are a result of competition among the airlines to fill seats fast. With many airlines ceasing to exist in future as a result of coronavirus pandemic, low competition can result in airlines resorting to collusion to charge high fares for high margins.&nbsp;

The low-cost airfares were also the result of budget travel that has also taken a massive hit with low-cost holiday destinations like Thailand and Dubai locking down the cities. Also, expensive loans taken for aircraft purchase or high lease costs of the planes won't allow many low-cost airlines to keep flying. Low-cost airlines that started in the US and Europe were quite popular among bag packers or budget holiday goers and the model has been replicated worldwide. But with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-badly-is-the-indian-e-commerce-sector-going-to-be-hit-by-the-coronavirus-pandemic-289640">coronavirus pandemic</a>, everything can change. Sydney-based CAPA Centre for Aviation estimates that many carriers might go bankrupt by the end of May 2020 itself. &nbsp;

A Bloomberg estimate says the airline that are in danger of going under are Pakistan International Airlines, Spicejet, Norwegian, American airlines, Skywest, Air Asia, Asiana Airlines, Virgin Australia, Korean Air, China Eastern, and China Southern airlines.&nbsp;

"In short to medium term, the demand for air travel will remain low. Many airlines will go out of business. But the remaining ones will be more sustainable in the long term as there will be a capacity rationalisation. Some fare models will have to be reworked", said a veteran of the aviation industry who has served at managerial positions in both low cost and full-service carriers.&nbsp;

Based on the assumption that the airlines are not grounded beyond April 15, when the current lockdown ends, estimates suggest the Indian airline industry including companies providing auxiliary services like airports and ground handlers could suffer losses ranging from 3.3 billion to 3.6 billion dollars in the first three months of fiscal 2021 ending in June.&nbsp;

But the situation can change if governments across the world go for massive bailouts for the aviation and tourism sector including one in India.

"Advance cheap airfares could still come even after the Covid-19 crisis is over. After all it is an easier way to raise cash much in advance and many airlines will be in dire need of cash going forward", said another aviation industry executive.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Visiting Thailand or Dubai was cheaper than flying to Goa or Kerala a few months ago. The ultra-low or the budget airfares resulted in a travel boom and it helped in turning the dreams of foreign holidays into reality for many.

Visiting Thailand or Dubai was cheaper than flying to Goa or Kerala a few months ago. The ultra-low or the budget airfares resulted in a travel boom and it helped in turning the dreams of foreign holidays into reality for many. From Mauritius to Malaysia, the budget or low airfares enticed many to explore the new holiday destinations with millions in India and overseas flying for the first time. But with the coronavirus pandemic striking travel and aviation world, the dreams of many for foreign holidays may be over for now or delayed indefinitely. From low-cost pocket-friendly carriers to full-service airlines, no one in the aviation world was prepared for a global crisis of this scale. Coronavirus pandemic has broken the backbone of the aviation industry and with this, it may be a long-lasting goodbye to the popular super saver airfare schemes or pocket-friendly budget airfare schemes. Analysts point out with the global travel and tourism industry taking a massive hit, the aviation industry might be limited to the essential air or business and need-based travel for some time to come. The low-cost airfares are a result of competition among the airlines to fill seats fast. With many airlines ceasing to exist in future as a result of coronavirus pandemic, low competition can result in airlines resorting to collusion to charge high fares for high margins. The low-cost airfares were also the result of budget travel that has also taken a massive hit with low-cost holiday destinations like Thailand and Dubai locking down the cities. Also, expensive loans taken for aircraft purchase or high lease costs of the planes won't allow many low-cost airlines to keep flying. Low-cost airlines that started in the US and Europe were quite popular among bag packers or budget holiday goers and the model has been replicated worldwide. But with coronavirus pandemic, everything can change. Sydney-based CAPA Centre for Aviation estimates that many carriers might go bankrupt by the end of May 2020 itself. A Bloomberg estimate says the airline that are in danger of going under are Pakistan International Airlines, Spicejet, Norwegian, American airlines, Skywest, Air Asia, Asiana Airlines, Virgin Australia, Korean Air, China Eastern, and China Southern airlines. "In short to medium term, the demand for air travel will remain low. Many airlines will go out of business. But the remaining ones will be more sustainable in the long term as there will be a capacity rationalisation. Some fare models will have to be reworked", said a veteran of the aviation industry who has served at managerial positions in both low cost and full-service carriers. Based on the assumption that the airlines are not grounded beyond April 15, when the current lockdown ends, estimates suggest the Indian airline industry including companies providing auxiliary services like airports and ground handlers could suffer losses ranging from 3.3 billion to 3.6 billion dollars in the first three months of fiscal 2021 ending in June. But the situation can change if governments across the world go for massive bailouts for the aviation and tourism sector including one in India. "Advance cheap airfares could still come even after the Covid-19 crisis is over. After all it is an easier way to raise cash much in advance and many airlines will be in dire need of cash going forward", said another aviation industry executive. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Coronavirus impact on aviation industry: Low-cost airfare schemes could be halted for a long time

Airlines bore the brunt of a dramatic expansion of the coronavirus crisis on Thursday, as U.S. travel curbs on much of continental Europe deepened the sector's misery and piled more pressure on governments to offer emergency support.

The 30-day restrictions will badly disrupt transatlantic traffic key to the earnings of major European carriers and their U.S. airline partners, analysts warned, as the move hit travel stocks already battered by the virus outbreak.

Those routes account for 20-30% of large European operators' revenue and a majority of profit, Credit Suisse analyst Neil Glynn warned, "highlighting the damage to revenue lines for the coming weeks and potentially well into the summer."

Glynn added: "A ban on travel to the U.S. will likely mean heavier cuts" than the drastic capacity reductions already ordered as airlines scrapped flights - first to China and then to other destinations including Italy as the virus spread.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-bans-arrivals-from-14-countries-including-india-over-coronavirus-fears-285153">Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears</a>

Shares in European and U.S. airlines slumped in turn to new lows, with Delta and United Airlines down more than 13% and American Airlines 7.2% lower.

Air France-KLM was down 9.1% at 1506 GMT, with British Airways parent IAG down 10.7% and Lufthansa 11.5% lower. Troubled Norwegian Air and U.S.-dependent Icelandair both plunged more than 20%.

The U.S. curbs on travel from the 26-country Schengen Area - which excludes Britain and Ireland - are similar to restrictions on China that took effect on Feb. 1 and do not apply to U.S. residents or their immediate family.

"The ban effectively stops travel from the Schengen Area to the USA," said Bernstein analyst Daniel Roeska - predicting a "more substantial" earnings impact than European carriers had suffered from the earlier China flight suspensions.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-travel-from-europe-to-us-in-coronavirus-crisis-285714">Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis</a>

U.S. airlines had already cut flight schedules to Italy and will take another hit from lower demand for flights from major destinations such as France and Germany.

Among them, American Airlines could be relatively spared by its alliance with British Airways (BA) and a higher share of UK traffic, while Air France-KLM partner Delta and Lufthansa ally United Airlines are likely to suffer more, analysts say.

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence defended the travel curbs on Thursday after the European Union complained they had been imposed "unilaterally and without consultation".

The virus has taken root in the United States after spreading from China to Italy, South Korea, Iran and elsewhere.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whole-of-italy-under-coronavirus-lockdown-public-gatherings-banned-285372">Whole of Italy under coronavirus lockdown, public gatherings banned</a>

TOTAL MELTDOWN

Airlines had already been scrambling to respond to a global travel slump that looks increasingly likely to require government aid to avoid widespread insolvencies. The EU will publish new state-aid guidelines on Friday.

Germany may extend loans and other support to airlines, a government official said on Thursday. The French government also stands ready to help Air France-KLM, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said.

"There is a need for measures from many governments," said Norwegian pilots' union president Yngve Carlsen. "This could lead to a total meltdown."

Scandinavian carrier SAS is in talks with the Swedish and Danish governments about potential support measures, a company spokeswoman said.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-could-get-bigger-in-winters-study-285720">&nbsp;Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study</a>

EU airlines have seized on the crisis to push back on green taxes designed to help the bloc meet climate goals - including proposals to end current tax exemptions on jet fuel.

"New fiscal burdens should be postponed until the industry is back on a sound operational and financial footing," lobby group Airlines for Europe said.

CRITICAL TIME

The latest travel clampdown could make coronavirus worse than previous aviation crises including the 9/11 attacks of 2001, UK-based consultant John Strickland said.

"It's coming at the end of the northern hemisphere winter, which is a weak period for airline finances (when) they should be sowing seeds of a strong summer season by getting the bookings in," he said.

Air France-KLM and Lufthansa said they were still studying the implications of the U.S. move for flight schedules. IAG is potentially less impacted thanks to BA's Heathrow base.

There were panicky European airport scenes as travellers scrambled to fly to the United States before the restrictions take effect late on March 13.

The fallout is also spreading fast from travel and tourism to the aerospace and other industries.

Safran, the world's third-biggest aerospace group, sees a growing threat&nbsp;

Airlines bore the brunt of a dramatic expansion of the coronavirus crisis on Thursday, as U.S. travel curbs on much of continental Europe deepened the sector's misery and piled more pressure on governments to offer emergency support.

Airlines bore the brunt of a dramatic expansion of the coronavirus crisis on Thursday, as U.S. travel curbs on much of continental Europe deepened the sector's misery and piled more pressure on governments to offer emergency support. The 30-day restrictions will badly disrupt transatlantic traffic key to the earnings of major European carriers and their U.S. airline partners, analysts warned, as the move hit travel stocks already battered by the virus outbreak. Those routes account for 20-30% of large European operators' revenue and a majority of profit, Credit Suisse analyst Neil Glynn warned, "highlighting the damage to revenue lines for the coming weeks and potentially well into the summer." Glynn added: "A ban on travel to the U.S. will likely mean heavier cuts" than the drastic capacity reductions already ordered as airlines scrapped flights - first to China and then to other destinations including Italy as the virus spread. Also read: Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears Shares in European and U.S. airlines slumped in turn to new lows, with Delta and United Airlines down more than 13% and American Airlines 7.2% lower. Air France-KLM was down 9.1% at 1506 GMT, with British Airways parent IAG down 10.7% and Lufthansa 11.5% lower. Troubled Norwegian Air and U.S.-dependent Icelandair both plunged more than 20%. The U.S. curbs on travel from the 26-country Schengen Area - which excludes Britain and Ireland - are similar to restrictions on China that took effect on Feb. 1 and do not apply to U.S. residents or their immediate family. "The ban effectively stops travel from the Schengen Area to the USA," said Bernstein analyst Daniel Roeska - predicting a "more substantial" earnings impact than European carriers had suffered from the earlier China flight suspensions. Also see: Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis U.S. airlines had already cut flight schedules to Italy and will take another hit from lower demand for flights from major destinations such as France and Germany. Among them, American Airlines could be relatively spared by its alliance with British Airways (BA) and a higher share of UK traffic, while Air France-KLM partner Delta and Lufthansa ally United Airlines are likely to suffer more, analysts say. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence defended the travel curbs on Thursday after the European Union complained they had been imposed "unilaterally and without consultation". The virus has taken root in the United States after spreading from China to Italy, South Korea, Iran and elsewhere. Also read: Whole of Italy under coronavirus lockdown, public gatherings banned TOTAL MELTDOWN Airlines had already been scrambling to respond to a global travel slump that looks increasingly likely to require government aid to avoid widespread insolvencies. The EU will publish new state-aid guidelines on Friday. Germany may extend loans and other support to airlines, a government official said on Thursday. The French government also stands ready to help Air France-KLM, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said. "There is a need for measures from many governments," said Norwegian pilots' union president Yngve Carlsen. "This could lead to a total meltdown." Scandinavian carrier SAS is in talks with the Swedish and Danish governments about potential support measures, a company spokeswoman said. Also see: Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study EU airlines have seized on the crisis to push back on green taxes designed to help the bloc meet climate goals - including proposals to end current tax exemptions on jet fuel. "New fiscal burdens should be postponed until the industry is back on a sound operational and financial footing," lobby group Airlines for Europe said. CRITICAL TIME The latest travel clampdown could make coronavirus worse than previous aviation crises including the 9/11 attacks of 2001, UK-based consultant John Strickland said. "It's coming at the end of the northern hemisphere winter, which is a weak period for airline finances (when) they should be sowing seeds of a strong summer season by getting the bookings in," he said. Air France-KLM and Lufthansa said they were still studying the implications of the U.S. move for flight schedules. IAG is potentially less impacted thanks to BA's Heathrow base. There were panicky European airport scenes as travellers scrambled to fly to the United States before the restrictions take effect late on March 13. The fallout is also spreading fast from travel and tourism to the aerospace and other industries. Safran, the world's third-biggest aerospace group, sees a growing threat

Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine

India has evacuated 58 citizens from Iran. Meanwhile, airlines around the world are operating 'ghost flights' amid the Coronavirus outbreak. This report brings you the latest updates on how the world is fighting the Wuhan virus.

Wuhan Coronavirus: India brings 58 citizens back from Iran | Gravitas

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrests-ordered-in-philippines-vaping-ban-263361">Philippine</a> Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said.

All 347 passengers and 18 crew aboard Flight 113, a Boeing Co 777 widebody, are safe, an airline spokeswoman said.

Pilots of flight 113&nbsp;declared an emergency and reported a possible engine failure, Los Angeles International Airport said. A witness on the ground described "bursts of flames" coming out of an engine.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said the plane returned and landed safely. Television station ABC-7 in Los Angeles aired video of the aircraft after takeoff that showed flames and smoke coming out of the right engine.

The plane landed around noon local time&nbsp;and was met by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the airport said. The emergency landing did not affect other flights.

Although the cause of the apparent engine failure was not immediately clear, it comes as Boeing faces intense scrutiny over twin deadly crashes involving its 737 MAX single-aisle jetliner. The 737 MAX has been grounded worldwide since March.

GE Aviation, a subsidiary of General Electric, which makes the GE90 engine for the 777 twin-aisle jetliners, said it was aware of the incident and was "working with the airline to determine the cause of the event and to promptly return the aircraft to service."

Boeing did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"You saw bursts of flames, little flames shooting out from the engine," said Andrew Ames, a 36-year-old fitness professional in Los Angeles, who watched as the 777 ascended over the ocean after takeoff. "It almost looked like backfire flames from a motorcycle or car."

"I had never seen a plane spew flames repeatedly. Then it stopped. As soon as it stopped, I saw the plane bank left, like it was heading back to the airport," Ames said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-ban-toxic-vaping-philippines-president-duterte-263244">Philippine</a> Airlines spokeswoman said the flight crew noticed smoke in the plane's second engine, declared an emergency and returned safely to the airport.

"All passengers are safe and sound," spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna said. "They are all being assisted to another flight."

A Philippine Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said.

A Philippine Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said. All 347 passengers and 18 crew aboard Flight 113, a Boeing Co 777 widebody, are safe, an airline spokeswoman said. Pilots of flight 113 declared an emergency and reported a possible engine failure, Los Angeles International Airport said. A witness on the ground described "bursts of flames" coming out of an engine. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said the plane returned and landed safely. Television station ABC-7 in Los Angeles aired video of the aircraft after takeoff that showed flames and smoke coming out of the right engine. The plane landed around noon local time and was met by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the airport said. The emergency landing did not affect other flights. Although the cause of the apparent engine failure was not immediately clear, it comes as Boeing faces intense scrutiny over twin deadly crashes involving its 737 MAX single-aisle jetliner. The 737 MAX has been grounded worldwide since March. GE Aviation, a subsidiary of General Electric, which makes the GE90 engine for the 777 twin-aisle jetliners, said it was aware of the incident and was "working with the airline to determine the cause of the event and to promptly return the aircraft to service." Boeing did not immediately respond to requests for comment. "You saw bursts of flames, little flames shooting out from the engine," said Andrew Ames, a 36-year-old fitness professional in Los Angeles, who watched as the 777 ascended over the ocean after takeoff. "It almost looked like backfire flames from a motorcycle or car." "I had never seen a plane spew flames repeatedly. Then it stopped. As soon as it stopped, I saw the plane bank left, like it was heading back to the airport," Ames said. The Philippine Airlines spokeswoman said the flight crew noticed smoke in the plane's second engine, declared an emergency and returned safely to the airport. "All passengers are safe and sound," spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna said. "They are all being assisted to another flight."

Philippine Airlines flight heading to Manila makes emergency landing in Los Angeles

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) check-in system went down after a fault developed in international submarine cables that connect the country.

In order to run the operations, the national flag carrier switched to a manual system. That could result in a delay in flights, reported ARY News.

Separately, PIA, in a tweet, said: "PTCL (Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited) network is down due to damage to their underground cables causing an outage of PIA Check-In systems across the country. We're moving to backup systems and manual processes. We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to the resulting delays."

Internet service across the country was impacted on Tuesday.

According to the reports, two submarines cables have gone offline disrupting internet in Pakistan. 
 
"IMEWE and SEAMEWE 4, that carry almost 50 per cent of Pakistan's internet traffic, went offline due to a fault at a location that's yet not determined," the report said.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) check-in system went down after a fault developed in international submarine cables that connect the country. In order to run the operations, the national flag carrier switched to a manual system.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) check-in system went down after a fault developed in international submarine cables that connect the country. In order to run the operations, the national flag carrier switched to a manual system. That could result in a delay in flights, reported ARY News. Separately, PIA, in a tweet, said: "PTCL (Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited) network is down due to damage to their underground cables causing an outage of PIA Check-In systems across the country. We're moving to backup systems and manual processes. We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to the resulting delays." Internet service across the country was impacted on Tuesday. According to the reports, two submarines cables have gone offline disrupting internet in Pakistan. "IMEWE and SEAMEWE 4, that carry almost 50 per cent of Pakistan's internet traffic, went offline due to a fault at a location that's yet not determined," the report said.

Pakistan International Airlines system down after submarine cable fault

National Carrier Air India has painted 'Ek Onkar' symbol on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft's tail to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani said that there was a demand to launch a direct flight from Amritsar to London and it was a good opportunity to launch it on the 550th Guru Purab.

"We realised that the exterior of a flight is unique and it can be used to promote tourism. We are celebrating 550th Guru Purab with the painting of 'Ek Onkar' which means 'The God is One' painting on the aircraft's tail. Our flights are flying around the world and India's message should reach maximum places. This is the reason behind this move," he told ANI.

"We are going to launch a fight directly from Amritsar to the UK on October 31. We are getting a good response from passengers and the load factor on this route is also good. The first flight from Amritsar to Stansted (UK) is almost full," he added.

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'Ik Onkar' painted on the tail of Air India's Boeing 787 Dreamliner as a part of 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. <a href="https://t.co/pgrDNVC6II">pic.twitter.com/pgrDNVC6II</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1188732735482814464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Lohani said that the airline needs to be creative since it is in the services sector.

"Some days back, we showcased important tourist destinations on our flights. Earlier, we on World Tourism Day we put world heritage photos on the aircraft's exterior. We also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birthday by creating an outline of Bapu's sketch on Air India Airbus 320 Aircraft's Tail," he added.

On September 27, Air India had launched the flight from Amritsar to Stansted (United Kingdom) flight. It will operate between Mumbai- Amritsar -Stansted (UK) on October 31, 2019.

The aircraft will fly on October 31 from Amritsar at 3 am (IST) to Stansted. The flight will fly only on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.

This international flight will connect Amritsar to Stansted in London to facilitate Sikh pilgrims visiting Punjab.

This aircraft has 256-seats and the airline has set up a special menu to attract passengers, airlines will serve Punjabi foods during the flight.

Air India has also started a direct flight between Amritsar and Patna from October 27 to connect with Takht Sri Patna Sahib to Harminder Sahib (Amritsar) on the 550th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Dev.

National Carrier Air India has painted 'Ek Onkar' symbol on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft's tail to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani said that there was a demand to launch a direct flight from Amritsar to London and it was a good opportunity to launch it on the 550th Guru Purab.

National Carrier Air India has painted 'Ek Onkar' symbol on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft's tail to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani said that there was a demand to launch a direct flight from Amritsar to London and it was a good opportunity to launch it on the 550th Guru Purab. "We realised that the exterior of a flight is unique and it can be used to promote tourism. We are celebrating 550th Guru Purab with the painting of 'Ek Onkar' which means 'The God is One' painting on the aircraft's tail. Our flights are flying around the world and India's message should reach maximum places. This is the reason behind this move," he told ANI. "We are going to launch a fight directly from Amritsar to the UK on October 31. We are getting a good response from passengers and the load factor on this route is also good. The first flight from Amritsar to Stansted (UK) is almost full," he added. 'Ik Onkar' painted on the tail of Air India's Boeing 787 Dreamliner as a part of 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. pic.twitter.com/pgrDNVC6II — ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2019 × Lohani said that the airline needs to be creative since it is in the services sector. "Some days back, we showcased important tourist destinations on our flights. Earlier, we on World Tourism Day we put world heritage photos on the aircraft's exterior. We also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birthday by creating an outline of Bapu's sketch on Air India Airbus 320 Aircraft's Tail," he added. On September 27, Air India had launched the flight from Amritsar to Stansted (United Kingdom) flight. It will operate between Mumbai- Amritsar -Stansted (UK) on October 31, 2019. The aircraft will fly on October 31 from Amritsar at 3 am (IST) to Stansted. The flight will fly only on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. This international flight will connect Amritsar to Stansted in London to facilitate Sikh pilgrims visiting Punjab. This aircraft has 256-seats and the airline has set up a special menu to attract passengers, airlines will serve Punjabi foods during the flight. Air India has also started a direct flight between Amritsar and Patna from October 27 to connect with Takht Sri Patna Sahib to Harminder Sahib (Amritsar) on the 550th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Dev.

Air India paints 'Ek Onkar' symbol on aircraft to commemorate 550th Gurupurab

As you all know, Make-up is mandatory for air hostesses and female crewmembers to weak make during duty hours. Virgin Atlantic decided to break this stereotype mentality. This airline also breaks the gender stereotype as well and sets an example for others.

WION Wings: 'Virgin Atlantic' breaks stereotypes mentality

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thomas-cook-collapses-why-and-what-happens-now-251531">Thomas Cook</a> is not the first travel company to go bust and leave thousands of travellers in the lurch, but never before have so many voyagers been affected.&nbsp;

Here are some other notable examples.

Britain's Monarch

Short-haul British carrier Monarch Airlines declared bankruptcy on October 2, 2017 and immediately ceased all activities, stranding about 110,000 passengers.&nbsp;

The British government took emergency action to return them home in an operation that involved 570 dedicated flights by 60 aircraft from 27 airlines.

But the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook Monday is on a different scale, affecting some 600,000 holidaymakers.

Britain's XL Leisure Group

On September 12, 2008 Britain's third-largest tour operator XL Leisure Group announced it was on the brink of bankruptcy and cancelled most flights operated by its XL Airways.

More than 85,000 holidaymakers were stuck overseas and the group chartered flights to repatriate them.

Although the company collapsed, its German and French subsidiaries were able to continue operations, having been bought by an Icelandic bank.

But on September 19, 2019 XL Airways France also declared itself insolvent.

Brazil's Varig

Brazil's heavily indebted Varig airline, one of the largest in Latin America, filed for bankruptcy protection on June 17, 2005. &nbsp;

It limped on as it awaited a promised buyer but in June 2006 had to cancel scores of domestic and international flights, and shed major international routes.

The government’s National Civil Aviation Agency took emergency measures to repatriate some 20,000 Brazilians stranded abroad, including 5,000 in Germany for the football World Cup.

A plan by Varig's staff to buy the company collapsed and it was eventually saved from liquidation by US-Brazilian investor consortium, Volo do Brasil, in July 2006.&nbsp;

The following year it was bought by low-cost carrier GOL.

Swissair

Once a symbol of Swiss reliability and efficiency, Swissair filed for bankruptcy and protection from creditors on October 2, 2001, just weeks after the September 11 plane attacks that hit the entire aviation sector.&nbsp;

All its aircraft were grounded after fuel companies demand payment for fuel; eventually, around 400 flights were cancelled and 38,000 people left stranded worldwide.

Flights resumed on October 4, after a short-term government loan, but the damage had been done: Swissair carried out its last flight on March 31, 2002, before being folded into a new national carrier named simply Swiss.

Australian Ansett

Indebted Ansett Airlines, Australia's second-biggest carrier, was on September 12, 2001 placed into voluntary administration to stem the financial losses of its owner, Air New Zealand.

Two days later its flights were grounded, stranding 45,000 voyagers around the country.

Flights partially resumed at the end of September but, after its sale to the Tesna consortium fell through, the airline flew for the last time in March 2002.

Thomas Cook is not the first travel company to go bust and leave thousands of travellers in the lurch, but never before have so many voyagers been affected. Here are some other notable examples.

Thomas Cook is not the first travel company to go bust and leave thousands of travellers in the lurch, but never before have so many voyagers been affected. Here are some other notable examples. Britain's Monarch Short-haul British carrier Monarch Airlines declared bankruptcy on October 2, 2017 and immediately ceased all activities, stranding about 110,000 passengers. The British government took emergency action to return them home in an operation that involved 570 dedicated flights by 60 aircraft from 27 airlines. But the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook Monday is on a different scale, affecting some 600,000 holidaymakers. Britain's XL Leisure Group On September 12, 2008 Britain's third-largest tour operator XL Leisure Group announced it was on the brink of bankruptcy and cancelled most flights operated by its XL Airways. More than 85,000 holidaymakers were stuck overseas and the group chartered flights to repatriate them. Although the company collapsed, its German and French subsidiaries were able to continue operations, having been bought by an Icelandic bank. But on September 19, 2019 XL Airways France also declared itself insolvent. Brazil's Varig Brazil's heavily indebted Varig airline, one of the largest in Latin America, filed for bankruptcy protection on June 17, 2005. It limped on as it awaited a promised buyer but in June 2006 had to cancel scores of domestic and international flights, and shed major international routes. The government’s National Civil Aviation Agency took emergency measures to repatriate some 20,000 Brazilians stranded abroad, including 5,000 in Germany for the football World Cup. A plan by Varig's staff to buy the company collapsed and it was eventually saved from liquidation by US-Brazilian investor consortium, Volo do Brasil, in July 2006. The following year it was bought by low-cost carrier GOL. Swissair Once a symbol of Swiss reliability and efficiency, Swissair filed for bankruptcy and protection from creditors on October 2, 2001, just weeks after the September 11 plane attacks that hit the entire aviation sector. All its aircraft were grounded after fuel companies demand payment for fuel; eventually, around 400 flights were cancelled and 38,000 people left stranded worldwide. Flights resumed on October 4, after a short-term government loan, but the damage had been done: Swissair carried out its last flight on March 31, 2002, before being folded into a new national carrier named simply Swiss. Australian Ansett Indebted Ansett Airlines, Australia's second-biggest carrier, was on September 12, 2001 placed into voluntary administration to stem the financial losses of its owner, Air New Zealand. Two days later its flights were grounded, stranding 45,000 voyagers around the country. Flights partially resumed at the end of September but, after its sale to the Tesna consortium fell through, the airline flew for the last time in March 2002.

Travellers stranded abroad, other cases before Thomas Cook

Russian pilot, Damir Yusupov, who landed a passenger plane in a cornfield after hitting a flock of birds said on Friday (August 16) he was no hero despite the Kremlin lauding him for saving the lives of 233 People

Russian pilot says he's no hero despite praise for crash-landing

I-Day joy: Air India to undertake first direct flight to US through North Pole from August 15

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday has asked the Indian airlines to be prepared to operate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cut-short-stay-return-as-soon-as-possible-jammu-and-kashmir-government-to-tourists-amarnath-pilgrims-240198">extra flights to and from Srinagar</a> for Amarnath Yatris and tourists.

"All scheduled Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar at short notice to fly out Amarnath Yatris and tourists from there if need be,'' DGCA said.

After DGCA announcement, airlines said they will give a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all its flights to and from Srinagar.

Earlier in the day, a press conference was addressed by the Corps Commander of the Army and the DGP in which details of the weapons and ammunition recovered in the state was given.&nbsp;

Details of the seriousness of the threats that are there were also given. They also mentioned that the security forces were going to tackle these threats head-on and will not allow them to succeed.

 
The statement came hours after the Jammu and Kashmir government asked the Amarnath pilgrims to "curtail" their stay in the valley and return as soon as possible after in the wake of inputs of terror threats to the annual yatra.

About a week ago, the central government had moved 10,000 central forces personnel to the valley to strengthen counter-insurgency operations and law and order situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday has asked the Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar for Amarnath Yatris and tourists.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday has asked the Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar for Amarnath Yatris and tourists. "All scheduled Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar at short notice to fly out Amarnath Yatris and tourists from there if need be,'' DGCA said. After DGCA announcement, airlines said they will give a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all its flights to and from Srinagar. Earlier in the day, a press conference was addressed by the Corps Commander of the Army and the DGP in which details of the weapons and ammunition recovered in the state was given. Details of the seriousness of the threats that are there were also given. They also mentioned that the security forces were going to tackle these threats head-on and will not allow them to succeed. The statement came hours after the Jammu and Kashmir government asked the Amarnath pilgrims to "curtail" their stay in the valley and return as soon as possible after in the wake of inputs of terror threats to the annual yatra. About a week ago, the central government had moved 10,000 central forces personnel to the valley to strengthen counter-insurgency operations and law and order situation. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian airlines to prepare extra flights for Srinagar tourists, Amarnath Yatris: DGCA

China Southern Airlines will carry out an equity diversification plan that will involve the injection of 30 billion yuan ($4.36 billion) of capital from three investors, the firm announced on Saturday.

The Guangdong Hengjian Investment Holding Corporation, the Guangzhou Urban Construction Investment Group and the Shenzhen Penghang Equity Investment Fund will each inject 10 billion yuan into the airline, as part of the country`s efforts to diversify ownership structures among state-owned firms.

The move will significantly improve the company`s debt-to-asset ratio, generate funds for its growth and help modernise its decision-making mechanisms, the announcement said.

It will also use the funds to serve its main air transportation business, pay for construction related to China`s Belt and Road Initiative and support aviation development in cities in the southern province of Guangdong.&nbsp;

China Southern is one of 96 enterprises owned and administered directly by the central government. Its profits slumped nearly 50% last year as a result of rising fuel costs and a weak yuan currency.&nbsp;

China Southern Airlines will carry out an equity diversification plan that will involve the injection of 30 billion yuan ($4.36 billion) of capital from three investors, the firm announced on Saturday.

China Southern Airlines will carry out an equity diversification plan that will involve the injection of 30 billion yuan ($4.36 billion) of capital from three investors, the firm announced on Saturday. The Guangdong Hengjian Investment Holding Corporation, the Guangzhou Urban Construction Investment Group and the Shenzhen Penghang Equity Investment Fund will each inject 10 billion yuan into the airline, as part of the country`s efforts to diversify ownership structures among state-owned firms. The move will significantly improve the company`s debt-to-asset ratio, generate funds for its growth and help modernise its decision-making mechanisms, the announcement said. It will also use the funds to serve its main air transportation business, pay for construction related to China`s Belt and Road Initiative and support aviation development in cities in the southern province of Guangdong. China Southern is one of 96 enterprises owned and administered directly by the central government. Its profits slumped nearly 50% last year as a result of rising fuel costs and a weak yuan currency.

China Southern Airlines to receive $4 billion capital injection

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has done the safety audit of five airlines, including Air India, and has listed out security concerns in these carriers, said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Thursday.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Puri said, "The implementation of Safety Management System (SMS) was found to be deficient. Quantum of Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) data analysed under Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) was not as per the Indian safety regulators'&nbsp;requirement."

"Inspection schedules were not revised as per the latest Maintenance Planning Document (MPD). Maintenance Control Centre was found not to be maintained as per the required manpower. Flight crew rostering software was not upgraded," he added.

The Civil Aviation Minister further said, "Untrained staffs were found manning check-in counters. The other staff at counters too were found to have inadequate knowledge for the handling of Dangerous Goods despite being trained in Dangerous Good Regulations (DGR). DGCA found that there was a delay in carrying out the corrective actions for the FOQA exceedances."

"DGCA has directed the operators to take corrective action," he said.

Puri said, "The DGCA proactively works towards improving the safety level of civil air transport in the country."

"The DGCA regularly conducts safety audits of scheduled and non-scheduled airline operators in the country as per the annual surveillance plan. The last five safety audits conducted were of Air India Express, SpiceJet, Air India, Indigo and GoAirways," his reply reads.

On the question of whether there are any plans or any private airline came before the DGCA for its revival, Puri said, "No such proposal for revival from any private airline has been received by the DGCA."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has done the safety audit of five airlines, including Air India, and has listed out security concerns in these carriers, said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Thursday.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has done the safety audit of five airlines, including Air India, and has listed out security concerns in these carriers, said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Thursday. In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Puri said, "The implementation of Safety Management System (SMS) was found to be deficient. Quantum of Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) data analysed under Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) was not as per the Indian safety regulators' requirement." "Inspection schedules were not revised as per the latest Maintenance Planning Document (MPD). Maintenance Control Centre was found not to be maintained as per the required manpower. Flight crew rostering software was not upgraded," he added. The Civil Aviation Minister further said, "Untrained staffs were found manning check-in counters. The other staff at counters too were found to have inadequate knowledge for the handling of Dangerous Goods despite being trained in Dangerous Good Regulations (DGR). DGCA found that there was a delay in carrying out the corrective actions for the FOQA exceedances." "DGCA has directed the operators to take corrective action," he said. Puri said, "The DGCA proactively works towards improving the safety level of civil air transport in the country." "The DGCA regularly conducts safety audits of scheduled and non-scheduled airline operators in the country as per the annual surveillance plan. The last five safety audits conducted were of Air India Express, SpiceJet, Air India, Indigo and GoAirways," his reply reads. On the question of whether there are any plans or any private airline came before the DGCA for its revival, Puri said, "No such proposal for revival from any private airline has been received by the DGCA."

DGCA conducts safety audit of five airlines, lists security concerns

InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, the operator of IndiGo, said its quarterly profit surged five-fold, beating analysts’ estimates, as yields rose and the airline carried more passengers amid the collapse of rival Jet Airways (India) Ltd following funding woes.

WION Wallet: IndiGo profit soars in Q4 with  Jet Airways grounded

Several employees of Jet Airways including pilots, engineers and members of the cabin crew gathered at T2 Airport in Mumbai outside Jet Airways ticket window to protest against the lack of payment over the last few months and demand government intervention in the crisis. Watch the video to know more!

WION Wallet: Jet Airways employees protest demanding unpaid salaries at T2 Airport in Mumbai

The trouble at Jet Airways NSE -31.46 % is expected to spill over on to the balance sheets and revenues of leading hotel chains and in-flight catering companies that are on the growing list of vendors to which the airline owes money.

Jet Airways' wings fold impacted Hospitality sector

A major conundrum facing India’s aviation industry is the high growth rate of passenger traffic, both domestic and international.&nbsp;

CAPA, a highly regarded private consultancy, has predicted domestic traffic to grow at 14-16 per cent annually, while internationally, traffic is pegged to rise by 10-12 per cent from FY2020.&nbsp;

IATA has also predicted that India will be the third largest air passenger market by 2025.

While the top dozen airports make profits, the rest 100 odd are loss-making. Of these, half-a-dozen private airports also share their revenue with the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The rest are owned and managed by the AAI, which cross-subsidises the balance.&nbsp;

While the present double-digit growth in passenger traffic is likely to continue, massive investments in the airport and air traffic management are needed to overcome a deficient infrastructure.&nbsp;

Despite double-digit growth, profitability is declining. The original national carriers, Air India and Indian Airlines, were merged in July 2007 in a hair-brained scheme devised by the then minister.&nbsp;

The new entity has not managed to survive without the government’s life support. Since it’s fully owned by the government, no attempt has been made by the previous or the present government to revive it, as was done in the case of Satyam in 2009 or the Japan Airlines.&nbsp;

It’s painful to see that recently the government formed an SPV and transferred Rs 29,000 crore out of its Rs 55,000 crore debt, hiving off the profitable Air India Air Transport Services.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Air India is fast losing its market share and may soon become irrelevant. Justifying it as a cost-cutting measure, Air India has reduced its Global Distribution System (GDS) agents to one, Travelport, which is represented in India by owners of Indigo Airlines - a direct conflict of interest.&nbsp;

The result is that the catchment area of passengers for Air India has shrunk, resulting in the once-premier airline announcing the suspension of three flights from Delhi - to Madrid, Birmingham and to Birmingham via Amritsar, respectively.

As for Kingfisher, Vijay Mallya is fighting against extradition in London courts.&nbsp; 
 
Jet Airways, started and owned by the enigmatic Naresh Goyal as a first-class full-service airline since 1992, too is fighting for survival.&nbsp;

In 1997, the business model of airlines in India changed dramatically with the arrival of a low-cost carrier, Air Deccan. This and other airlines gave up on the glamour quotient, providing just point to point services, sans any frills and lower ticket prices.&nbsp;

With the Indian economy growing at 7 per cent plus, there was an air traffic boom. A lot of people who used trains switched to LCCs.&nbsp;

While growth in air traffic has been in double digits for the last ten years, the growth in railway traffic for two-tier coaches and above has been minimal.&nbsp;

Full-service airlines, Air India, Kingfisher and Jet Airways, began their low-cost subsidiaries. However, by not closing their full services, they suffered.

With the high growth of passenger traffic, airlines started ordering new aircraft. Indigo in 2005 astounded everyone by ordering 100 single-aisle Airbus A320-200 aircraft and followed this up in 2011 by ordering another 180 aircraft of the same type, placing yet another order for 250 Airbus A320-Neo in 2015.&nbsp;

Meanwhile in 2016, the government allowed 100 per cent foreign equity in airlines but kept a cap of up to 49 per cent equity for foreign airlines wanting to invest in Indian carriers, mindful of the international requirement that an airline must be majority-owned and effectively controlled by the nationals of their country.&nbsp;

As new aircraft started arriving to join the fleet, the need to fill them up meant that prices had to be kept low, given India’s price-sensitive market.&nbsp;

A new system of computerised ticket price management was introduced to fill up seats. However, as the seat capacity in India grew, the need to keep prices low to attract travellers became desperate.

To add to this, there were two more variables that mattered. The first were oil prices, which keep fluctuating. But in India, domestic oil prices are kept artificially high by oil companies and the government benefits when prices go up as their share of tax revenue also increases. Therefore, there is little reason for them to lower Air Turbine Fuel (ATF) rates.&nbsp;

The second factor are foreign exchange rates. As the rupee slides down, airlines have to pay more for ATF in Rupee terms, which reflect on their balance sheet.

The net outcome is that the airline industry in India lost S1.7 billion in FY2018 and may lose another $550-700 million in FY 2019.&nbsp;

As more aircraft join the fleet, these losses are likely to continue. As airlines go into losses, the banking sector comes into play. While private banks tend to shy away from such risky loans, it is the public sector banks, in particular, the State Bank of India, that gets hit. &nbsp;

Public sector banks are not only nudged to give loans, but when these loans become nonperforming, are nudged to convert them into equity at a high rate, thereby absorbing partially the losses of the airlines.

The government must now reduce the tax burden on airlines, both directly and through unnecessary taxes/charges of supply of ATF, which is both monopolistic and very high.&nbsp;

With such a high growth rate of traffic, it is unlikely that revenues will fall. To avoid becoming an oligopolist structure, indiscriminate ordering of aircraft should be examined by some competent authority like the Competition Commission.

DGCA is obligated under Aircraft Rules to look into ‘excessive and predatory’ pricing.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-a-curious-case-of-plenty-2740001">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

A major conundrum facing India’s aviation industry is the high growth rate of passenger traffic, both domestic and international. CAPA, a highly regarded private consultancy, has predicted domestic traffic to grow at 14-16 per cent annually, while internationally, traffic is pegged to rise by 10-12 per cent from FY2020.

A major conundrum facing India’s aviation industry is the high growth rate of passenger traffic, both domestic and international. CAPA, a highly regarded private consultancy, has predicted domestic traffic to grow at 14-16 per cent annually, while internationally, traffic is pegged to rise by 10-12 per cent from FY2020. IATA has also predicted that India will be the third largest air passenger market by 2025. While the top dozen airports make profits, the rest 100 odd are loss-making. Of these, half-a-dozen private airports also share their revenue with the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The rest are owned and managed by the AAI, which cross-subsidises the balance. While the present double-digit growth in passenger traffic is likely to continue, massive investments in the airport and air traffic management are needed to overcome a deficient infrastructure. Despite double-digit growth, profitability is declining. The original national carriers, Air India and Indian Airlines, were merged in July 2007 in a hair-brained scheme devised by the then minister. The new entity has not managed to survive without the government’s life support. Since it’s fully owned by the government, no attempt has been made by the previous or the present government to revive it, as was done in the case of Satyam in 2009 or the Japan Airlines. It’s painful to see that recently the government formed an SPV and transferred Rs 29,000 crore out of its Rs 55,000 crore debt, hiving off the profitable Air India Air Transport Services. Meanwhile, Air India is fast losing its market share and may soon become irrelevant. Justifying it as a cost-cutting measure, Air India has reduced its Global Distribution System (GDS) agents to one, Travelport, which is represented in India by owners of Indigo Airlines - a direct conflict of interest. The result is that the catchment area of passengers for Air India has shrunk, resulting in the once-premier airline announcing the suspension of three flights from Delhi - to Madrid, Birmingham and to Birmingham via Amritsar, respectively. As for Kingfisher, Vijay Mallya is fighting against extradition in London courts. Jet Airways, started and owned by the enigmatic Naresh Goyal as a first-class full-service airline since 1992, too is fighting for survival. In 1997, the business model of airlines in India changed dramatically with the arrival of a low-cost carrier, Air Deccan. This and other airlines gave up on the glamour quotient, providing just point to point services, sans any frills and lower ticket prices. With the Indian economy growing at 7 per cent plus, there was an air traffic boom. A lot of people who used trains switched to LCCs. While growth in air traffic has been in double digits for the last ten years, the growth in railway traffic for two-tier coaches and above has been minimal. Full-service airlines, Air India, Kingfisher and Jet Airways, began their low-cost subsidiaries. However, by not closing their full services, they suffered. With the high growth of passenger traffic, airlines started ordering new aircraft. Indigo in 2005 astounded everyone by ordering 100 single-aisle Airbus A320-200 aircraft and followed this up in 2011 by ordering another 180 aircraft of the same type, placing yet another order for 250 Airbus A320-Neo in 2015. Meanwhile in 2016, the government allowed 100 per cent foreign equity in airlines but kept a cap of up to 49 per cent equity for foreign airlines wanting to invest in Indian carriers, mindful of the international requirement that an airline must be majority-owned and effectively controlled by the nationals of their country. As new aircraft started arriving to join the fleet, the need to fill them up meant that prices had to be kept low, given India’s price-sensitive market. A new system of computerised ticket price management was introduced to fill up seats. However, as the seat capacity in India grew, the need to keep prices low to attract travellers became desperate. To add to this, there were two more variables that mattered. The first were oil prices, which keep fluctuating. But in India, domestic oil prices are kept artificially high by oil companies and the government benefits when prices go up as their share of tax revenue also increases. Therefore, there is little reason for them to lower Air Turbine Fuel (ATF) rates. The second factor are foreign exchange rates. As the rupee slides down, airlines have to pay more for ATF in Rupee terms, which reflect on their balance sheet. The net outcome is that the airline industry in India lost S1.7 billion in FY2018 and may lose another $550-700 million in FY 2019. As more aircraft join the fleet, these losses are likely to continue. As airlines go into losses, the banking sector comes into play. While private banks tend to shy away from such risky loans, it is the public sector banks, in particular, the State Bank of India, that gets hit. Public sector banks are not only nudged to give loans, but when these loans become nonperforming, are nudged to convert them into equity at a high rate, thereby absorbing partially the losses of the airlines. The government must now reduce the tax burden on airlines, both directly and through unnecessary taxes/charges of supply of ATF, which is both monopolistic and very high. With such a high growth rate of traffic, it is unlikely that revenues will fall. To avoid becoming an oligopolist structure, indiscriminate ordering of aircraft should be examined by some competent authority like the Competition Commission. DGCA is obligated under Aircraft Rules to look into ‘excessive and predatory’ pricing. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Government must reduce the tax burden on airlines

The Co-founder of Indonesia’s Lion Air, one of two airlines that lost passengers and crew in recent crashes involving the 737 MAX, has lashed out at Boeing’s handling of the accidents as the potential business fallout from the jet’s grounding intensifies.

Lion Air's founder hits out at Boeing

First official report: Crew of Ethiopia jet followed procedures

Jet’s new plan will ease Indian domestic air travel

The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">the Pulwama attack</a> and subsequent developments.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued the alert and marked it to senior police officials of all states, in-charges of security at all airlines and airports, and officers of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

"In view of the intelligence input in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments, it is imperative to enhance the existing security measures being taken at all the civil aviation installations like airports, airstrips, airfields, air force stations, helipads, flying schools, aviation training institutes etc. So that no untoward incident takes place," the alert notification read.

The BCAS has asked airlines and airports to take 20 specific enhanced security measures which will be "in operation till further orders".&nbsp;

The security measures include "strict access control to regulate entry into terminal building, airside, all operational area and other aviation facilities".&nbsp;

The BCAS has directed "enhanced screening of passengers, including 100 per cent full pat down search at pre-embarkation security checkpoint", and enhanced random screening of "staff and visitors" at the main gate to the terminal building.

No vehicle should be parked in front of the terminal building and there should be "intensive checking of vehicles entering car parking area", according to the alert notification. ? Another measure is -- strict on ground monitoring of regulatory guidelines for operations of non-conventional aerial platform like microlight aircraft, aero models, paragliders, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), drones, power hang gliders and hot air balloons.&nbsp;

The BCAS has suggested enhanced screening of passengers, staff, and hand baggages and "strengthening of anti-terrorism/anti-sabotage measures and placement of quick response teams" at all airports.&nbsp;

According to the alert notification, "QRT and perimeter patrolling" has to be strengthened too. QRTs are part of the CISF only, which is in-charge of security at various airports across the country. 
"Intensive checking of vehicles/persons at the approach to airport terminals/installations" has also been called for.&nbsp;

Enhanced random check at the entry of terminal building, including utilization of bomb detection and disposal squads and dog squads at the entry point has been suggested.&nbsp;

According to the alert notification, authorities have been asked to "enhance surveillance in and around the aviation installations" and specific monitoring of "flights/helicopters/UAV/&nbsp; 
UAS/drones/gliders/hot air balloons from airports/helipads/airfield around Delhi National Capital region".&nbsp;

Regarding catering, the alert notification said, "Inspection by the chief security officer of the airline concerned from the presetting stage to vehicle check and entry into airside. Airport Security Unit/Aviation Security Group to ensure thorough check of the vehicle through under view mirror, cabin search etc and checking of the driver and attendant and their ID matching of signatures". 
There would be "no issuance of visitor entry passes till further notice", it said and directed strict monitoring of non-scheduled flight operations including air ambulance.&nbsp;

The BCAS also called for "thorough search and anti-sabotage check of the aircraft by the airline concerned and its guarding to ensure no unauthorized access to the aircraft... To ensure that no unauthorized person gains access to aero bridge".&nbsp;

The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued the alert and marked it to senior police officials of all states, in-charges of security at all airlines and airports, and officers of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). "In view of the intelligence input in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments, it is imperative to enhance the existing security measures being taken at all the civil aviation installations like airports, airstrips, airfields, air force stations, helipads, flying schools, aviation training institutes etc. So that no untoward incident takes place," the alert notification read. The BCAS has asked airlines and airports to take 20 specific enhanced security measures which will be "in operation till further orders". The security measures include "strict access control to regulate entry into terminal building, airside, all operational area and other aviation facilities". The BCAS has directed "enhanced screening of passengers, including 100 per cent full pat down search at pre-embarkation security checkpoint", and enhanced random screening of "staff and visitors" at the main gate to the terminal building. No vehicle should be parked in front of the terminal building and there should be "intensive checking of vehicles entering car parking area", according to the alert notification. ? Another measure is -- strict on ground monitoring of regulatory guidelines for operations of non-conventional aerial platform like microlight aircraft, aero models, paragliders, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), drones, power hang gliders and hot air balloons. The BCAS has suggested enhanced screening of passengers, staff, and hand baggages and "strengthening of anti-terrorism/anti-sabotage measures and placement of quick response teams" at all airports. According to the alert notification, "QRT and perimeter patrolling" has to be strengthened too. QRTs are part of the CISF only, which is in-charge of security at various airports across the country. "Intensive checking of vehicles/persons at the approach to airport terminals/installations" has also been called for. Enhanced random check at the entry of terminal building, including utilization of bomb detection and disposal squads and dog squads at the entry point has been suggested. According to the alert notification, authorities have been asked to "enhance surveillance in and around the aviation installations" and specific monitoring of "flights/helicopters/UAV/ UAS/drones/gliders/hot air balloons from airports/helipads/airfield around Delhi National Capital region". Regarding catering, the alert notification said, "Inspection by the chief security officer of the airline concerned from the presetting stage to vehicle check and entry into airside. Airport Security Unit/Aviation Security Group to ensure thorough check of the vehicle through under view mirror, cabin search etc and checking of the driver and attendant and their ID matching of signatures". There would be "no issuance of visitor entry passes till further notice", it said and directed strict monitoring of non-scheduled flight operations including air ambulance. The BCAS also called for "thorough search and anti-sabotage check of the aircraft by the airline concerned and its guarding to ensure no unauthorized access to the aircraft... To ensure that no unauthorized person gains access to aero bridge".

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines

WION Wings: How Airlines Prepare Your Meals

Airlines world over make huge investments to hone the skills of pilots in their quest for the maintenance of high safety standards.

It is therefore incomprehensible that an astounding number of pilots of Indian carriers – 181 to be precise, as per statement made in Parliament, failed the mandatory breathalyser test prior to operating flights during the three year period 2015-18.

Pilots, in the course of their exhaustive training, are made to realise the significance of safety; that lives of hundreds of passengers depend on them, etc. Why do some of them then behave so immaturely and irresponsibly so as to fail the mandatory breathalyser test?&nbsp;

It’s a question that has defied a satisfactory response because the number of instances of pilots failing the test hasn’t shown any appreciable decline during the recent years and India’s track record continues to be more abysmal than most other countries.&nbsp;

Even if it is argued that while instances of pilots reporting in a drunken state year after year in absolute number may not have shown a decline, the reality of it going down as a percentage of flights operated cannot be overlooked. This is because the number of flights operated in these years has gone up significantly, as has the number of pilots in various airlines.&nbsp;

What is, however, perplexing is that even the tightening of action by the regulatory agency, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has apparently failed to make the pilots understand the gravity of their lackadaisical approach.&nbsp;

As per new regulations introduced by the DGCA in 2015, more as a consequence of India’s safety rating downgrade by the Federal Aviation Administration of USA in the previous year, to curb the menace, all flights are now mandatorily covered through pre-flight checks whereas earlier checks were conducted only at random.&nbsp;

The punishment too has been made more stringent. Suspension of flying licence for the first instance of violation and revocation of licence for three years for a repeat offence.&nbsp;

Considering that pilots earn between Rs 3-8 lakh a month depending on their seniority, suspension of flying licence does translate into a huge financial punitive loss for them, but it seemingly is still failing to act as a deterrent.

It is imperative to dispel the often-cited, hastily drawn, conclusion that had the pilots not been stopped from operating the flight on failing the breathalyser test it would have resulted in a tragedy.&nbsp;

The breathalyser tests are stringent as even negligible traces of alcohol in breath result in pilots being kept away from operating the flight. The pilot unions have always termed these standards as too stringent, but their reservation is only to be expected considering whose interests they seek to represent and protect.&nbsp;

Rule 24 of the Aircraft Rules states “No person acting as, or carried in aircraft for the purpose of acting as pilot, commander, navigator, engineer, cabin crew or the other operating member of the crew thereof, shall have taken or used any alcoholic drink, sedative, narcotic, or stimulant drug preparation within 12 hours of the commencement of the flight...”

Pilots failing breathalyser test is also not a phenomenon restricted to India alone. Nineteen pilots of Japan Airlines since August 2018 have failed the breathalyser test forcing the airline to ban alcohol consumption 24 hours before a flight, instead of the earlier 12 hours.

Likewise, a Singapore Airlines pilot failed a random breathalyser test before captaining a transcontinental flight from Melbourne, Australia, to Wellington, New Zealand, three months ago. The flight had to be cancelled resulting in inconvenience to passengers because at foreign locations substitute pilots are not available.

DGCA may perhaps need to emulate the example of Japan Airlines because restrictions need to be guided by ground realities as they exist in India and not global benchmarks.

The argument that our current 12-hour ban is already higher than the eight-hour ban that exists for pilots in Europe and the USA can’t be held as merited because the problem needs to be curbed as the safety of passengers is paramount.

There are some who argue that the problem of pilots failing the breathalyser test is a consequence of stress caused by increasingly busy schedules as airlines expand operations, but it lacks credibility.&nbsp;

A more plausible reason could be our social environment where good-monied life means partying and partying can’t be without the liquor flowing freely. No one would grudge the pilots enjoying the way they would like to but it can’t be at the expense of the safety of passengers! 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pilots-must-curb-tendency-to-turn-up-drunk-for-flights-2703194">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Airlines world over make huge investments to hone the skills of pilots in their quest for the maintenance of high safety standards. It is therefore incomprehensible that an astounding number of pilots of Indian carriers – 181 to be precise, as per statement made in Parliament, failed the mandatory breathalyser test prior to operating flights during the three year period 2015-18.

Airlines world over make huge investments to hone the skills of pilots in their quest for the maintenance of high safety standards. It is therefore incomprehensible that an astounding number of pilots of Indian carriers – 181 to be precise, as per statement made in Parliament, failed the mandatory breathalyser test prior to operating flights during the three year period 2015-18. Pilots, in the course of their exhaustive training, are made to realise the significance of safety; that lives of hundreds of passengers depend on them, etc. Why do some of them then behave so immaturely and irresponsibly so as to fail the mandatory breathalyser test? It’s a question that has defied a satisfactory response because the number of instances of pilots failing the test hasn’t shown any appreciable decline during the recent years and India’s track record continues to be more abysmal than most other countries. Even if it is argued that while instances of pilots reporting in a drunken state year after year in absolute number may not have shown a decline, the reality of it going down as a percentage of flights operated cannot be overlooked. This is because the number of flights operated in these years has gone up significantly, as has the number of pilots in various airlines. What is, however, perplexing is that even the tightening of action by the regulatory agency, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has apparently failed to make the pilots understand the gravity of their lackadaisical approach. As per new regulations introduced by the DGCA in 2015, more as a consequence of India’s safety rating downgrade by the Federal Aviation Administration of USA in the previous year, to curb the menace, all flights are now mandatorily covered through pre-flight checks whereas earlier checks were conducted only at random. The punishment too has been made more stringent. Suspension of flying licence for the first instance of violation and revocation of licence for three years for a repeat offence. Considering that pilots earn between Rs 3-8 lakh a month depending on their seniority, suspension of flying licence does translate into a huge financial punitive loss for them, but it seemingly is still failing to act as a deterrent. It is imperative to dispel the often-cited, hastily drawn, conclusion that had the pilots not been stopped from operating the flight on failing the breathalyser test it would have resulted in a tragedy. The breathalyser tests are stringent as even negligible traces of alcohol in breath result in pilots being kept away from operating the flight. The pilot unions have always termed these standards as too stringent, but their reservation is only to be expected considering whose interests they seek to represent and protect. Rule 24 of the Aircraft Rules states “No person acting as, or carried in aircraft for the purpose of acting as pilot, commander, navigator, engineer, cabin crew or the other operating member of the crew thereof, shall have taken or used any alcoholic drink, sedative, narcotic, or stimulant drug preparation within 12 hours of the commencement of the flight...” Pilots failing breathalyser test is also not a phenomenon restricted to India alone. Nineteen pilots of Japan Airlines since August 2018 have failed the breathalyser test forcing the airline to ban alcohol consumption 24 hours before a flight, instead of the earlier 12 hours. Likewise, a Singapore Airlines pilot failed a random breathalyser test before captaining a transcontinental flight from Melbourne, Australia, to Wellington, New Zealand, three months ago. The flight had to be cancelled resulting in inconvenience to passengers because at foreign locations substitute pilots are not available. DGCA may perhaps need to emulate the example of Japan Airlines because restrictions need to be guided by ground realities as they exist in India and not global benchmarks. The argument that our current 12-hour ban is already higher than the eight-hour ban that exists for pilots in Europe and the USA can’t be held as merited because the problem needs to be curbed as the safety of passengers is paramount. There are some who argue that the problem of pilots failing the breathalyser test is a consequence of stress caused by increasingly busy schedules as airlines expand operations, but it lacks credibility. A more plausible reason could be our social environment where good-monied life means partying and partying can’t be without the liquor flowing freely. No one would grudge the pilots enjoying the way they would like to but it can’t be at the expense of the safety of passengers! (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pilots must curb tendency to turn up drunk for flights

Emirates Airline on Thursday posted an 86 per cent drop in half-year profits as the Middle East's leading carrier was hit by a hike in oil prices and currency devaluations.

The Dubai-based airline in a statement its net profit in the six months to September 30 was also impacted by other challenges and expected tough months ahead.

Emirates said it recorded a profit of just $62 million in the first half of the 2018-2019 fiscal year compared with $452 million in the same period last year.

"The high fuel cost as well as currency devaluations in markets like India, Brazil, Angola and Iran, wiped approximately 4.6 billion dirhams ($1.25 billion) from our profits," said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Group.

Emirates, one of the world's biggest airlines, said fuel costs rose by 42 per cent compared with the same period last year.

The company, which flies to more than 150 destinations, said the cost of fuel amounted to a third of its expenses.

Emirates is the world's largest operator of Airbus A380s with more than 100 of the superjumbos in its fleet.

"The next six months will be tough, but the Emirates Group's foundations remain strong," Sheikh Ahmed said in a statement.

In the six months to September 30, the airline carried 30.1 million passengers, a rise of three per cent on the last fiscal year, the company said.

Emirates' revenues were 10 per cent higher than the previous year at $13.3 billion.

"We are proactively managing the myriad challenges faced by the airline and travel industry, including the relentless downward pressure on yields and uncertain economic and political realities in our region and in other parts of the world," said Sheikh Ahmed.

Profit for the Emirates Group, which also includes Dnata, a leading air services provider, was also down by 53 per cent to $296 million.

Emirates Airline on Thursday posted an 86 per cent drop in half-year profits as the Middle East's leading carrier was hit by a hike in oil prices and currency devaluations.

Emirates Airline on Thursday posted an 86 per cent drop in half-year profits as the Middle East's leading carrier was hit by a hike in oil prices and currency devaluations. The Dubai-based airline in a statement its net profit in the six months to September 30 was also impacted by other challenges and expected tough months ahead. Emirates said it recorded a profit of just $62 million in the first half of the 2018-2019 fiscal year compared with $452 million in the same period last year. "The high fuel cost as well as currency devaluations in markets like India, Brazil, Angola and Iran, wiped approximately 4.6 billion dirhams ($1.25 billion) from our profits," said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Group. Emirates, one of the world's biggest airlines, said fuel costs rose by 42 per cent compared with the same period last year. The company, which flies to more than 150 destinations, said the cost of fuel amounted to a third of its expenses. Emirates is the world's largest operator of Airbus A380s with more than 100 of the superjumbos in its fleet. "The next six months will be tough, but the Emirates Group's foundations remain strong," Sheikh Ahmed said in a statement. In the six months to September 30, the airline carried 30.1 million passengers, a rise of three per cent on the last fiscal year, the company said. Emirates' revenues were 10 per cent higher than the previous year at $13.3 billion. "We are proactively managing the myriad challenges faced by the airline and travel industry, including the relentless downward pressure on yields and uncertain economic and political realities in our region and in other parts of the world," said Sheikh Ahmed. Profit for the Emirates Group, which also includes Dnata, a leading air services provider, was also down by 53 per cent to $296 million.

Emirates Airline half-year profit slides 86% on oil hike

India is open to listing ailing state carrier Air India, a government source said&nbsp;on Wednesday, after failing to attract buyers for a 76 percent stake in the company.

While the government is considering several proposals related to reviving the divestment process, it will not allow complete foreign ownership of the airline, the source said, declining to be named before a final decision is reached.

One of the proposals could involve the government retaining a share in the debt-laden carrier and selling it at a later date so it can capitalise on any financial upside that may occur from listing the airline, the source said.&nbsp;

The government may also consider reducing the debt it passes on to potential buyers and restructuring the large workforce, another senior government official told Reuters.

"We will take a decision in next few days on changing conditions before inviting fresh bids," the official said, adding that the government is committed to selling its stake in the national carrier in the current financial year but could defer it if it fails to get the right price.

The government in March finalised plans to divest a majority stake in Air India and offload about $5.1 billion of its debt, but prospective buyers stayed away, with some citing onerous terms as a reason for their lack of interest.

The lack of buyers in a booming aviation market underlines the challenges the government faces in fixing the debt-laden national carrier, and is a setback for Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s credentials as a reformer willing to step away from running money-losing businesses.

Air India, known for its Maharaja mascot, has some of India`s most lucrative international and domestic landing and parking slots that are key for airlines.

While a buyer would have got management control and gained access to more than 2,500 international slots and over 3,700 domestic slots, it would also have been required to take on Air India`s 27,000 employees, 40 percent of whom are permanent staff.&nbsp;

The terms had also stipulated that the government would have continued to hold a 24 percent stake, with the need for the bidder to abide by conditions, not yet detailed, designed to safeguard employee interests.

The government will soon arrange a bank loan for Air India, the second official said, to meet working capital needs and buy time for a few months before inviting fresh bids.

"The heavens would not fall if the stake sale is deferred to the next fiscal year," the official said adding that ahead of national elections next year, the government could not take the risk of selling the national carrier at a low price.&nbsp;

This could cost the government politically and hurt the process of further privatisation of other state companies, he said.

Government will not allow complete foreign ownership of the airline

India is open to listing ailing state carrier Air India, a government source said on Wednesday, after failing to attract buyers for a 76 percent stake in the company. While the government is considering several proposals related to reviving the divestment process, it will not allow complete foreign ownership of the airline, the source said, declining to be named before a final decision is reached. One of the proposals could involve the government retaining a share in the debt-laden carrier and selling it at a later date so it can capitalise on any financial upside that may occur from listing the airline, the source said. The government may also consider reducing the debt it passes on to potential buyers and restructuring the large workforce, another senior government official told Reuters. "We will take a decision in next few days on changing conditions before inviting fresh bids," the official said, adding that the government is committed to selling its stake in the national carrier in the current financial year but could defer it if it fails to get the right price. The government in March finalised plans to divest a majority stake in Air India and offload about $5.1 billion of its debt, but prospective buyers stayed away, with some citing onerous terms as a reason for their lack of interest. The lack of buyers in a booming aviation market underlines the challenges the government faces in fixing the debt-laden national carrier, and is a setback for Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s credentials as a reformer willing to step away from running money-losing businesses. Air India, known for its Maharaja mascot, has some of India`s most lucrative international and domestic landing and parking slots that are key for airlines. While a buyer would have got management control and gained access to more than 2,500 international slots and over 3,700 domestic slots, it would also have been required to take on Air India`s 27,000 employees, 40 percent of whom are permanent staff. The terms had also stipulated that the government would have continued to hold a 24 percent stake, with the need for the bidder to abide by conditions, not yet detailed, designed to safeguard employee interests. The government will soon arrange a bank loan for Air India, the second official said, to meet working capital needs and buy time for a few months before inviting fresh bids. "The heavens would not fall if the stake sale is deferred to the next fiscal year," the official said adding that ahead of national elections next year, the government could not take the risk of selling the national carrier at a low price. This could cost the government politically and hurt the process of further privatisation of other state companies, he said.

India open to listing Air India after failed divestment: Government source

Jet Airways on Tuesday became the latest major Indian airline&nbsp;to rule out a bid for debt-laden national carrier Air India in a new blow to the government's privatisation plans.

The announcement came just days after rival IndiGo pulled out of the race&nbsp;to acquire Air India's operations meaning the government now has no clear frontrunner in the sale campaign.

"We welcome the government move to privatise Air India. It is a bold step," &nbsp;Jet Airways' deputy chief executive, Amit Agarwal said in a statement emailed to AFP.

"However, considering the terms of offer in the information memorandum and based on our review, we are not participating in the process," he added.

Once the country's monopoly airline, Air India has slowly lost market share to new low-cost private players in one of the world's fastest-growing airline markets.

Air India ran losses for nearly a decade after a botched merger in 2007 and has debts of around $7.67 billion according to government figures.

It has received $5.8 billion in bailout funds from the government but needs even more working capital to turn it around, experts say.

The Indian government recently said it wanted to sell a 76 percent chunk of the struggling carrier.

It released bid documents on what would be one of the country's highest-profile asset sales in decades showing it wants the prospective buyer to take on all of Air India's operations.

IndiGo, India's largest airline, withdrew on Friday, saying it was interested only in Air India's international routes and not its domestic operations.

India has the world's fastest-growing passenger airline industry, expanding at an annual rate of around 20 percent.&nbsp;

About 100 million of its 1.25 billion people took to the skies in 2016 and airlines have embarked on huge purchases of new jets in expectation of new growth.

The announcement came just days after rival IndiGo pulled out of the race to acquire Air India's operations meaning the government now has no clear frontrunner in the sale campaign

Jet Airways on Tuesday became the latest major Indian airline to rule out a bid for debt-laden national carrier Air India in a new blow to the government's privatisation plans. The announcement came just days after rival IndiGo pulled out of the race to acquire Air India's operations meaning the government now has no clear frontrunner in the sale campaign. "We welcome the government move to privatise Air India. It is a bold step," Jet Airways' deputy chief executive, Amit Agarwal said in a statement emailed to AFP. "However, considering the terms of offer in the information memorandum and based on our review, we are not participating in the process," he added. Once the country's monopoly airline, Air India has slowly lost market share to new low-cost private players in one of the world's fastest-growing airline markets. Air India ran losses for nearly a decade after a botched merger in 2007 and has debts of around $7.67 billion according to government figures. It has received $5.8 billion in bailout funds from the government but needs even more working capital to turn it around, experts say. The Indian government recently said it wanted to sell a 76 percent chunk of the struggling carrier. It released bid documents on what would be one of the country's highest-profile asset sales in decades showing it wants the prospective buyer to take on all of Air India's operations. IndiGo, India's largest airline, withdrew on Friday, saying it was interested only in Air India's international routes and not its domestic operations. India has the world's fastest-growing passenger airline industry, expanding at an annual rate of around 20 percent. About 100 million of its 1.25 billion people took to the skies in 2016 and airlines have embarked on huge purchases of new jets in expectation of new growth.

Jet Airways rules out Air India bid

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