Tensions flared at Domodedovo Airport as Russian authorities detained and questioned around 40 Israeli passengers arriving from Tel Aviv.

Reports say the travelers were held for several hours—some for up to five hours—while security officials conducted interrogations linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Passengers were reportedly questioned individually, with some asked to unlock their phones or switch them off. Officials allegedly told detainees that Iran is an ally of Russia and that “any enemy of Iran is our enemy too.

Dozens Of Israelis Detained In Russia: Holds 40 Israeli Passengers For Hours 

The United States has the highest number of airports worldwide, with an estimated 16,116 across the country as of March 2025. Brazil followed with an estimated 5,297 airports, and Australia with around 2,257. Let's have a look at the top 7 nations with the highest number of airports.

The United States has the highest number of airports worldwide, with an estimated 16,116 across the country as of March 2025. Brazil followed with an estimated 5,297 airports, and Australia with around 2,257. Let's have a look at the top 7 nations with the highest number of airports.

Top 7 countries with the most airports in the world

These beautiful airports offer amazing designs, top luxury, and smooth travel. With modern comforts and unique features, they make every journey special and are a must-see for all travellers seeking a memorable travel experience.

These beautiful airports offer amazing designs, top luxury, and smooth travel. With modern comforts and unique features, they make every journey special and are a must-see for all travellers seeking a memorable travel experience.

7 most beautiful airports in the world you must see

In all airports, safety measures are always prioritised in order to safeguard the lives of people. But, still, there are several airports in the world which can scare you even after full safety. Let's have a look at the top 5 most dangerous airports in the world.

In all airports, safety measures are always prioritised in order to safeguard the lives of people. But, still, there are several airports in the world which can scare you even after full safety. Let's have a look at the top 5 most dangerous airports in the world.

Top 5 most dangerous airports in the world — No. 2 will shock you!

The best airports for shopping in 2025 includes names like Doha Hamad, Singapore Changi, Heathrow, and many more. These airports offer top brands, local items, and wide duty-free spaces. Find out which airports lead for global shopping this year.

The best airports for shopping in 2025 includes names like Doha Hamad, Singapore Changi, Heathrow, and many more. These airports offer top brands, local items, and wide duty-free spaces. Find out which airports lead for global shopping this year.

From Dubai to Doha: 10 airports that offer the best shopping experience in the world

Landing a Boeing 787 at tough airports like Antarctica’s troll airfield or Washington’s Reagan National takes skill. short runways, ice, high altitudes, and strong winds test pilots and aircraft performance in extreme conditions around the world.

Landing a Boeing 787 at tough airports like Antarctica’s Troll airfield or Washington’s Reagan National takes skill. short runways, ice, high altitudes, and strong winds test pilots and aircraft performance in extreme conditions around the world.

Can a Boeing 787 Dreamliner land anywhere? 7 toughest airports in the world that push pilots to the limit

Tipping is a mandatory practice in several parts of the world. However, should you tip a machine? A passenger has shared a strange experience she had at an airport where the system asked her for a tip after she made the purchase at a self-service checkout. This happened at the Newark Airport, where another passenger was charged a 3 per cent employee benefit after purchasing a meal using a self-service checkout, as reported by View From The Wing.&nbsp;&nbsp;The woman said that after she bought dinner at the Shore Points markets, she was "charged a 3 per cent employee benefit and retention fee." She was confused because the purchase happened at a self-service checkout, meaning there was no human involvement.&nbsp;Another post from 2023 was also shared on the page about a similar incident where the machine asked her for a tip.&nbsp;"I’m at Newark Airport being asked to tip on a self-checkout transaction- how much should I tip?" the woman asked in a post on X.&nbsp;Who was the extra payment going towards if the payment happened without one? Is it fair to have one pay extra for employee benefits when they aren't even serving them? The website stated that charging employee benefits at airport self-checkout machines is like "imposing mandatory tipping as part of the checkout process."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/istanbul-airport-might-be-most-expensive-airport-in-the-world-8966724">$7 (Rs 582) for a banana? $24 (Rs 2,100) for a burger? THIS might be world's most expensive airport</a><h2>World's most expensive airport</h2>&nbsp;Airports charge a higher amount for food and other items across the world. Recently, a report revealed the world's most expensive airport, where a banana costs $7 and you have to pay nearly 20 dollars (Rs 1,698) for a pint of beer that sells for $1.70 (Rs 145) in the city.&nbsp;A Big Mac costs $24 (Rs 2,086), a measly-looking piece of lasagna costs $27.78 (Rs 2,376), and a savoury croissant could be anywhere between $16.44 (Rs 1,406) and $19.84 (Rs 1,697).Burger King was selling a Whopper for $24.95 (Rs 2,134), while McDonald's was charging $28.69 (Rs 2,453) for a Double Quarter Pounder.&nbsp;Four pieces of fried chicken wings, a soda and French fries were being sold for $19.85 (Rs 1,697). A Reddit user claimed that they once paid $7 (Rs 582) for a banana.&nbsp;Operational costs lead shops at airports to charge customers huge amounts. A bottle of water at the Delhi International Airport can cost Rs 100 and upwards. For a KFC meal, customers are charged 2.5 times the regular price.&nbsp;

https://x.com/annatonger/status/1661116069233172507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1661116069233172507%7Ctwgr%5E1a6114cda47daaa727a8856ca5a6d71ce6b37560%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fviewfromthewing.com%2Fyoure-now-paying-an-employee-fee-to-self-checkout-machines-at-newark-airport%2F

A woman purchased dinner at the self-service checkout and was asked by the machine if she would like to add a tip. Another passenger was charged a 3 per cent employee benefit and retention fee.

Tipping is a mandatory practice in several parts of the world. However, should you tip a machine? A passenger has shared a strange experience she had at an airport where the system asked her for a tip after she made the purchase at a self-service checkout. This happened at the Newark Airport, where another passenger was charged a 3 per cent employee benefit after purchasing a meal using a self-service checkout, as reported by View From The Wing. The woman said that after she bought dinner at the Shore Points markets, she was "charged a 3 per cent employee benefit and retention fee." She was confused because the purchase happened at a self-service checkout, meaning there was no human involvement. Another post from 2023 was also shared on the page about a similar incident where the machine asked her for a tip. "I’m at Newark Airport being asked to tip on a self-checkout transaction- how much should I tip?" the woman asked in a post on X. Who was the extra payment going towards if the payment happened without one? Is it fair to have one pay extra for employee benefits when they aren't even serving them? The website stated that charging employee benefits at airport self-checkout machines is like "imposing mandatory tipping as part of the checkout process." Also Read: $7 (Rs 582) for a banana? $24 (Rs 2,100) for a burger? THIS might be world's most expensive airport World's most expensive airport Airports charge a higher amount for food and other items across the world. Recently, a report revealed the world's most expensive airport, where a banana costs $7 and you have to pay nearly 20 dollars (Rs 1,698) for a pint of beer that sells for $1.70 (Rs 145) in the city. A Big Mac costs $24 (Rs 2,086), a measly-looking piece of lasagna costs $27.78 (Rs 2,376), and a savoury croissant could be anywhere between $16.44 (Rs 1,406) and $19.84 (Rs 1,697). Burger King was selling a Whopper for $24.95 (Rs 2,134), while McDonald's was charging $28.69 (Rs 2,453) for a Double Quarter Pounder. Four pieces of fried chicken wings, a soda and French fries were being sold for $19.85 (Rs 1,697). A Reddit user claimed that they once paid $7 (Rs 582) for a banana. Operational costs lead shops at airports to charge customers huge amounts. A bottle of water at the Delhi International Airport can cost Rs 100 and upwards. For a KFC meal, customers are charged 2.5 times the regular price.

A woman purchased dinner at the self-service checkout and was asked by the machine if she would like to add a tip. Another passenger was charged a "3 per cent employee benefit and retention fee."&nbsp;

Woman asked to tip a machine at Newark airport, another charged 'employee benefits' at self-checkout

After years of soaring ticket prices....Airfares are finally coming back down...But not for the reasons travelers might hope. Domestic travel demand is showing signs of softening...And airlines are feeling the turbulence.

Major airlines pulled 2025 forecasts citing instability

Mpox outbreak is becoming a cause of concern. World Health Organisation declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency. While Sweden and Pakistan have reported cases outside Africa, there is no reported case of Mpox in India by far. As per the current assessment, the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission is low.

India prepares for Mpox outbreak: Health Ministry issues guidelines for airports, hospitals

A massive IT outage Friday caused long delays, cancellations, and check-in problems at airports around the world, hitting not only airlines but various other industries.

The disruption, which was blamed on a glitch in Microsoft software, impacted a vast network of services and caused considerable chaos for travellers.

More than 110,000 commercial flights were due to operate on the day; however, by this afternoon already, 2,691 flights had been cancelled worldwide, according to the aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Among the airports affected was Edinburgh, where boarding pass scanners said that a "server is offline message" appeared, with passengers advised to check their flight status online before heading to the airport.

In response to the disruption, many airports and airlines adopted manual check-in processes.

Hong Kong International Airport, however, reported that even as the Microsoft outage was affecting several carriers, flight operations were unaffected. Singapore's Changi Airport also had to result in manual check-ins.

The aviation sector, most sensitive to time and coordination, took a hit as even small delays had flights across the globe out of schedule.

Microsoft said that some of its Office 365 apps and services could experience issues because of a "configuration change in part of our Azure-backed workloads," the company tweeted.

Cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike confirmed it was working with clients affected by the issue caused by a flaw in a Windows update, which contributed to the far-flung glitches.

The blackout was hence very provoking to passengers. At Madrid-Barajas, however, travellers were greeted by long queues and no information, hence a confused wait.

Ana Rodriguez, a tourist from Mexico, also described the chaotic scene of the passengers waiting in different lines only to be told where to check in later.

In New Delhi, resorts to IT failures were made, with airlines issuing handwritten boarding passes and also displaying flight information on whiteboards, while passengers at Baltimore Airport had to wait for long as Spirit Airlines employees processed tickets from paper manifests by hand.

The Federal Aviation Administration reported that major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta issued ground stops in the United States in the early hours of the day due to communication problems.

While American Airlines later resumed its operations, Delta still delayed or even cancelled flights around Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, and Salt Lake City.

Even with all this, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was optimistic that transportation could return to normal on Saturday.

In Europe, some carriers like Spanish airline Iberia did not cancel flights, while there were major disruptions at Amsterdam's Schiphol and Berlin airports.

Questions also remain over passenger compensation. In Europe, carriers usually have to compensate travellers when delays exceed three hours, but the airline could argue this outage constitutes an "extraordinary circumstance" under EU statute.

US carriers are not legally bound to compensate for delays, and it is not clear whether an IT issue will be considered an "airline-caused" delay.

(With inputs from Reuters)

A massive IT outage Friday caused long delays, cancellations, and check-in problems at airports around the world, hitting not only airlines but various other industries.

A massive IT outage Friday caused long delays, cancellations, and check-in problems at airports around the world, hitting not only airlines but various other industries. The disruption, which was blamed on a glitch in Microsoft software, impacted a vast network of services and caused considerable chaos for travellers. More than 110,000 commercial flights were due to operate on the day; however, by this afternoon already, 2,691 flights had been cancelled worldwide, according to the aviation analytics firm Cirium. Among the airports affected was Edinburgh, where boarding pass scanners said that a "server is offline message" appeared, with passengers advised to check their flight status online before heading to the airport. In response to the disruption, many airports and airlines adopted manual check-in processes. Hong Kong International Airport, however, reported that even as the Microsoft outage was affecting several carriers, flight operations were unaffected. Singapore's Changi Airport also had to result in manual check-ins. The aviation sector, most sensitive to time and coordination, took a hit as even small delays had flights across the globe out of schedule. Microsoft said that some of its Office 365 apps and services could experience issues because of a "configuration change in part of our Azure-backed workloads," the company tweeted. Cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike confirmed it was working with clients affected by the issue caused by a flaw in a Windows update, which contributed to the far-flung glitches. The blackout was hence very provoking to passengers. At Madrid-Barajas, however, travellers were greeted by long queues and no information, hence a confused wait. Ana Rodriguez, a tourist from Mexico, also described the chaotic scene of the passengers waiting in different lines only to be told where to check in later. In New Delhi, resorts to IT failures were made, with airlines issuing handwritten boarding passes and also displaying flight information on whiteboards, while passengers at Baltimore Airport had to wait for long as Spirit Airlines employees processed tickets from paper manifests by hand. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta issued ground stops in the United States in the early hours of the day due to communication problems. While American Airlines later resumed its operations, Delta still delayed or even cancelled flights around Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, and Salt Lake City. Even with all this, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was optimistic that transportation could return to normal on Saturday. In Europe, some carriers like Spanish airline Iberia did not cancel flights, while there were major disruptions at Amsterdam's Schiphol and Berlin airports. Questions also remain over passenger compensation. In Europe, carriers usually have to compensate travellers when delays exceed three hours, but the airline could argue this outage constitutes an "extraordinary circumstance" under EU statute. US carriers are not legally bound to compensate for delays, and it is not clear whether an IT issue will be considered an "airline-caused" delay. (With inputs from Reuters)

Global IT outage causes widespread disruptions across airports

India's Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu adopted proactive measures after the roof collapsed at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal-1 amid heavy rains.&nbsp;

The minister said that they will carry out a structural preliminary inspection at all the airports across the country.

Naidus said that a report from all the airports has been sought by the ministry within 2-5 days after which necessary measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the days ahead.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/roof-collapses-at-terminal-1-of-delhi-airport-amid-heavy-rains-four-injured-735833">One killed, eight injured as roof collapses at Terminal-1 of Delhi airport amid heavy rains</a>

"Since we don't want such incidents to be repeated, we will ensure getting a structural preliminary inspection done at all airports. We have sought a report from all the airports across the country within 2-5 days, upon which we will see what necessary measures are needed to be taken to prevent such incidents in the future," Naidu said while speaking to news agency ANI.&nbsp;

<h2>War room constituted, refund for flights cancelled: Minister</h2>

Speaking on the proactive measures taken, the aviation minister said that they have constituted a war room to ensure refunds or alternate flights for the passengers affected in the incident.&nbsp;

He added that people with either get a refund within seven days or alternate flights if their flights were cancelled.

"For now, Terminal-1 is completely closed and evacuated. All the flight movements have been shifted to Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. For those people whose flights have been cancelled, they are being given either a refund or an alternate flight. The Civil Aviation Ministry has decided to pass a circular to provide refunds to the people within seven days," he said.

Watch:&nbsp;India: Six injured after Delhi Airport's Terminal 1 roof collapses

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-six-injured-after-delhi-airports-terminal-1-roof-collapses-736037/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"To ensure this happens, we have set up war rooms at Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. The Ministry has released a statement regarding this which has all the numbers. We are taking care of it and have placed one of the officers in the war rooms," the minister added.

A circular was also issued by the ministry to the airlines, asking them not to increase the fares.

The flight operations from Terminal 1 remain suspended till further notice by the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu adopted proactive measures after the roof collapsed at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal-1 amid heavy rains.

India's Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu adopted proactive measures after the roof collapsed at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal-1 amid heavy rains. The minister said that they will carry out a structural preliminary inspection at all the airports across the country. Naidus said that a report from all the airports has been sought by the ministry within 2-5 days after which necessary measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the days ahead. Also Read: One killed, eight injured as roof collapses at Terminal-1 of Delhi airport amid heavy rains "Since we don't want such incidents to be repeated, we will ensure getting a structural preliminary inspection done at all airports. We have sought a report from all the airports across the country within 2-5 days, upon which we will see what necessary measures are needed to be taken to prevent such incidents in the future," Naidu said while speaking to news agency ANI. War room constituted, refund for flights cancelled: Minister Speaking on the proactive measures taken, the aviation minister said that they have constituted a war room to ensure refunds or alternate flights for the passengers affected in the incident. He added that people with either get a refund within seven days or alternate flights if their flights were cancelled. "For now, Terminal-1 is completely closed and evacuated. All the flight movements have been shifted to Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. For those people whose flights have been cancelled, they are being given either a refund or an alternate flight. The Civil Aviation Ministry has decided to pass a circular to provide refunds to the people within seven days," he said. Watch: India: Six injured after Delhi Airport's Terminal 1 roof collapses "To ensure this happens, we have set up war rooms at Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. The Ministry has released a statement regarding this which has all the numbers. We are taking care of it and have placed one of the officers in the war rooms," the minister added. A circular was also issued by the ministry to the airlines, asking them not to increase the fares. The flight operations from Terminal 1 remain suspended till further notice by the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL). (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi airport roof collapse: Aviation minister orders 'structural audit' of all airports

And starting with our special segment-- Pollnomics, Which decodes why India’s polls matter to the global economy... As Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stones for 15 airport projects, including 12 new terminal buildings, We put the spotlight on India’s infrastructure expansion & how airports are leading the charge. Take a look at this next report for more…

India Elections 2024: Doubling airport capacity fuels passenger surge in India

The pockets of India's national capital New Delhi and its surrounding areas were covered in a thick blanket of haze as temperature dipped to 6 degrees Celsius on Thursday morning (Dec 28) and 11 people were reported to have been killed in road accidents. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that dense fog is likely to envelop Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab till December 31.&nbsp;

An advisory was issued by the weather office, a day after much of north India was covered in a thick blanket of haze, and more than 110 flights and 25 trains were delayed in the national capital.

The visibility dropped to 50 metres at Delhi's Safdarjung observatory at 5:30 am while a visibility of 25 metres was reported in Palam, near Delhi airport. The visibility ranged between 50 to 25 metres in Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and UP. The met officials stated that visibility dipped to zero at Palam airport from 8 am to 10 am on Wednesday (Dec 27) and remained below 200m till 12:30 pm.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-christmas-welcomed-by-fog-and-cold-temperatures-in-delhi-673266">India: Delhi wakes up to a foggy Christmas morning and chilly weather</a>

As per the officials, the visibility was down to zero at Amritsar, Agra and Allahabad airports till 9 pm.&nbsp;

"Dense to very dense fog (0-25 meters) in some pockets of Uttar Pradesh and in isolated pockets over Haryana, Chandigarh &amp; Delhi, Southwest Rajasthan and north Madhya Pradesh," said the IMD&nbsp;in a post on X.

<h2>Flights, trains delayed, Met predicts 'very dense fog' &nbsp;</h2>

According to Delhi Airport FIDS (Flight Information Display System), approximately 134 domestic and international flights were delayed due to dense fog. Meanwhile, Indian Railways confirmed that 22 trains have been running late in Delhi.

The Met predicted "very dense fog" for morning hours and late night till December 31 in the northern states. However, visibility improved in some areas of Delhi on Thursday morning, even though foggy weather prevailed in the NCR region.

"Fog likely to become more dense and very likely to extend more parts of Uttar Pradesh &amp; north Rajasthan and some parts of extreme north Madhya Pradesh," said the IMD&nbsp;in a post on X, while asking travellers to remain careful and use fog lights while driving their vehicles.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Delhi: Dense fog blankets India's Delhi-NCR region

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-dense-fog-blankets-indias-delhi-ncr-region-674016/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As cold wave conditions prevailed, the minimum temperature fell to 6 degrees Celsius while the maximum was likely to not go beyond 21 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;air quality remained in the category of "very poor" for another day in New Delhi. New Delhi's average AQI reached 386 and AQI reached 464 which fell in the "severe" category in Anand Vihar. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the pollution level is likely to stay in the poor category for the next two days.

As fog engulfed roads on Wednesday, multiple collisions were reported across the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In a collision of multiple vehicles on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, one person was killed and 12 others injured. In other accidents reported around Uttar Pradesh, eight people were killed.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The pockets of India's national capital New Delhi and its surrounding areas were covered in a thick blanket of haze as temperature dipped to 6 degrees Celsius on Thursday morning (Dec 28) and 11 people were reported to have been killed in road accidents.

The pockets of India's national capital New Delhi and its surrounding areas were covered in a thick blanket of haze as temperature dipped to 6 degrees Celsius on Thursday morning (Dec 28) and 11 people were reported to have been killed in road accidents. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that dense fog is likely to envelop Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab till December 31. An advisory was issued by the weather office, a day after much of north India was covered in a thick blanket of haze, and more than 110 flights and 25 trains were delayed in the national capital. The visibility dropped to 50 metres at Delhi's Safdarjung observatory at 5:30 am while a visibility of 25 metres was reported in Palam, near Delhi airport. The visibility ranged between 50 to 25 metres in Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and UP. The met officials stated that visibility dipped to zero at Palam airport from 8 am to 10 am on Wednesday (Dec 27) and remained below 200m till 12:30 pm. Also read: India: Delhi wakes up to a foggy Christmas morning and chilly weather As per the officials, the visibility was down to zero at Amritsar, Agra and Allahabad airports till 9 pm. "Dense to very dense fog (0-25 meters) in some pockets of Uttar Pradesh and in isolated pockets over Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi, Southwest Rajasthan and north Madhya Pradesh," said the IMD in a post on X. Flights, trains delayed, Met predicts 'very dense fog' According to Delhi Airport FIDS (Flight Information Display System), approximately 134 domestic and international flights were delayed due to dense fog. Meanwhile, Indian Railways confirmed that 22 trains have been running late in Delhi. The Met predicted "very dense fog" for morning hours and late night till December 31 in the northern states. However, visibility improved in some areas of Delhi on Thursday morning, even though foggy weather prevailed in the NCR region. "Fog likely to become more dense and very likely to extend more parts of Uttar Pradesh & north Rajasthan and some parts of extreme north Madhya Pradesh," said the IMD in a post on X, while asking travellers to remain careful and use fog lights while driving their vehicles. Watch: Delhi: Dense fog blankets India's Delhi-NCR region As cold wave conditions prevailed, the minimum temperature fell to 6 degrees Celsius while the maximum was likely to not go beyond 21 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, air quality remained in the category of "very poor" for another day in New Delhi. New Delhi's average AQI reached 386 and AQI reached 464 which fell in the "severe" category in Anand Vihar. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the pollution level is likely to stay in the poor category for the next two days. As fog engulfed roads on Wednesday, multiple collisions were reported across the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In a collision of multiple vehicles on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, one person was killed and 12 others injured. In other accidents reported around Uttar Pradesh, eight people were killed. (With inputs from agencies)

Thick fog blankets North India: Airports battle zero visibility, 11 die in road accidents

The persistent war&nbsp;in Gaza, pitting Israel against the militant group Hamas, continues to escalate, with Israeli warplanes striking parts of Gaza and even extending their operations on Sunday (Oct 22) to two airports in Syria.

This marked a significant development just two weeks after Hamas launched a major attack on Israel, one of the most significant since the establishment of the Jewish state in 1948.

The ongoing turmoil is deeply entangled in regional rivalries and long-standing divides that shape the responses of various West Asian countries and actors.&nbsp;

<h2>The Israel-Syria-Hezbollah triangle</h2>

The recent airstrikes on Syria can be better understood within the context of the intricate relationships between Israel, Hezbollah, and Syria.

<h2>Israel's concerns</h2>

The Israeli government has yet to provide explicit reasons for the recent attack on Syria. However, it is widely believed that these strikes are preemptive actions aimed at countering Hezbollah's threats to open a new front of attacks in the north, reported Reuters.

Israel's apprehensions are fuelled by the fact that Lebanon and Syria both share borders with Israel in the north. Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant organisation based in Lebanon, has been engaged in sporadic exchanges of fire with Israel in recent weeks, although it has not formally entered the war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Also read |&nbsp;Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, extremist groups call for global attack</a>

<h2>Syria's historical stance on Israel</h2>

Syria has consistently been a staunch opponent of Israel since its formation in 1948, aligning itself with the overarching policy of Arab nations in the region.

The two nations have a history of wars, including the Six-Day War of 1967, which resulted in Israel's occupation of Syria's Golan Heights—a region that remains under Israeli control today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-had-intentions-of-using-chemical-weapons-as-part-of-terror-attack-report-649949">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas had intentions of using 'chemical weapons' as part of 'terror attack': Report</a>

<h2>The evolving relationship between Hezbollah and Syria</h2>

The relationship between Hezbollah and Syria has evolved over the years, shaped by external influences. While both parties share a common opposition to Israel and Western influences and have aligned with Russia, they have also experienced conflicting interests at times. Following the end of the Lebanese Civil War in 1990, Hezbollah had to accept the presence of Syrian groups in Lebanon. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in power since 2000, has accommodated Iran and Hezbollah's Syrian Shia militias within his country.

<h2>How was Hezbollah formed?</h2>

In 1982, Iran's Revolutionary Guards established Hezbollah, also known as the "Party of God." Its primary objectives were to propagate Iran's Islamic Revolution and confront Israeli forces that had entered Lebanon during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990).

Israel's military operation aimed to remove the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) from Lebanon, resulting in the occupation of portions of southern Lebanon. This occupation mobilized Shiite communities in the south, who perceived themselves as resisting Israeli aggression. Hezbollah aligned with Tehran and recruited members from the Lebanese Shiite Muslim population.

After Israel's withdrawal in 2000 and the conclusion of the civil war, Hezbollah, with backing from Iran, became Israel's primary adversary in Lebanon.

Hezbollah's significant display of military power occurred in 2006 during a five-week conflict with Israel. This conflict was triggered when Hezbollah crossed into Israel, capturing two soldiers and causing casualties.

<h2>Syria's role in the current conflict</h2>

Syria has been drawn into the ongoing conflict, primarily through Israeli airstrikes targeting international airports in Damascus and Aleppo. These attacks have inflicted damage and disrupted the airports' operations, marking just one episode in a series of Israeli strikes on Syrian territory during the ongoing conflict. Additionally, Hezbollah has actively participated in the conflict by launching attacks on Israeli positions in the disputed Chebaa Farms, near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights along the Syrian border.

<h2>Concerns and implications</h2>

The escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, along with Israel's strikes on Syria, give rise to significant concerns about the trajectory of the Gaza conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued stern warnings to Hezbollah, underscoring the potentially catastrophic consequences of a war. Hezbollah, boasting a substantial military force and backing from sympathetic countries, remains a formidable actor in the region.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Also watch |&nbsp;Dozens buried in a mass grave in Gaza city: UN</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-dozens-buried-in-a-mass-grave-in-gaza-city-un-650305/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As the conflict enters its third week, there is growing apprehension about the potential for an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza and the risk of spillover into neighbouring countries. Hezbollah's actions, in particular, have the potential to expand the conflict's scope, affecting other nations in the volatile West Asian region.

The recent Israeli airstrikes on Syria amid the ongoing Gaza conflict have profound implications for the region, rooted in complex regional dynamics involving Israel, Hezbollah, and Syria. As the situation continues to evolve, the West Asian region remains at a crossroads, with the potential for further escalation and a widening scope of conflict that could engulf neighbouring nations.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The persistent war in Gaza, pitting Israel against the militant group Hamas, continues to escalate, with Israeli warplanes striking parts of Gaza and even extending their operations on Sunday (Oct 22) to two airports in Syria.

The persistent war in Gaza, pitting Israel against the militant group Hamas, continues to escalate, with Israeli warplanes striking parts of Gaza and even extending their operations on Sunday (Oct 22) to two airports in Syria. This marked a significant development just two weeks after Hamas launched a major attack on Israel, one of the most significant since the establishment of the Jewish state in 1948. The ongoing turmoil is deeply entangled in regional rivalries and long-standing divides that shape the responses of various West Asian countries and actors. The Israel-Syria-Hezbollah triangle The recent airstrikes on Syria can be better understood within the context of the intricate relationships between Israel, Hezbollah, and Syria. Israel's concerns The Israeli government has yet to provide explicit reasons for the recent attack on Syria. However, it is widely believed that these strikes are preemptive actions aimed at countering Hezbollah's threats to open a new front of attacks in the north, reported Reuters. Israel's apprehensions are fuelled by the fact that Lebanon and Syria both share borders with Israel in the north. Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant organisation based in Lebanon, has been engaged in sporadic exchanges of fire with Israel in recent weeks, although it has not formally entered the war. Also read | Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, extremist groups call for global attack Syria's historical stance on Israel Syria has consistently been a staunch opponent of Israel since its formation in 1948, aligning itself with the overarching policy of Arab nations in the region. The two nations have a history of wars, including the Six-Day War of 1967, which resulted in Israel's occupation of Syria's Golan Heights—a region that remains under Israeli control today. Also read | Hamas had intentions of using 'chemical weapons' as part of 'terror attack': Report The evolving relationship between Hezbollah and Syria The relationship between Hezbollah and Syria has evolved over the years, shaped by external influences. While both parties share a common opposition to Israel and Western influences and have aligned with Russia, they have also experienced conflicting interests at times. Following the end of the Lebanese Civil War in 1990, Hezbollah had to accept the presence of Syrian groups in Lebanon. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in power since 2000, has accommodated Iran and Hezbollah's Syrian Shia militias within his country. How was Hezbollah formed? In 1982, Iran's Revolutionary Guards established Hezbollah, also known as the "Party of God." Its primary objectives were to propagate Iran's Islamic Revolution and confront Israeli forces that had entered Lebanon during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990). Israel's military operation aimed to remove the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) from Lebanon, resulting in the occupation of portions of southern Lebanon. This occupation mobilized Shiite communities in the south, who perceived themselves as resisting Israeli aggression. Hezbollah aligned with Tehran and recruited members from the Lebanese Shiite Muslim population. After Israel's withdrawal in 2000 and the conclusion of the civil war, Hezbollah, with backing from Iran, became Israel's primary adversary in Lebanon. Hezbollah's significant display of military power occurred in 2006 during a five-week conflict with Israel. This conflict was triggered when Hezbollah crossed into Israel, capturing two soldiers and causing casualties. Syria's role in the current conflict Syria has been drawn into the ongoing conflict, primarily through Israeli airstrikes targeting international airports in Damascus and Aleppo. These attacks have inflicted damage and disrupted the airports' operations, marking just one episode in a series of Israeli strikes on Syrian territory during the ongoing conflict. Additionally, Hezbollah has actively participated in the conflict by launching attacks on Israeli positions in the disputed Chebaa Farms, near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights along the Syrian border. Concerns and implications The escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, along with Israel's strikes on Syria, give rise to significant concerns about the trajectory of the Gaza conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued stern warnings to Hezbollah, underscoring the potentially catastrophic consequences of a war. Hezbollah, boasting a substantial military force and backing from sympathetic countries, remains a formidable actor in the region. Also watch | Dozens buried in a mass grave in Gaza city: UN As the conflict enters its third week, there is growing apprehension about the potential for an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza and the risk of spillover into neighbouring countries. Hezbollah's actions, in particular, have the potential to expand the conflict's scope, affecting other nations in the volatile West Asian region. The recent Israeli airstrikes on Syria amid the ongoing Gaza conflict have profound implications for the region, rooted in complex regional dynamics involving Israel, Hezbollah, and Syria. As the situation continues to evolve, the West Asian region remains at a crossroads, with the potential for further escalation and a widening scope of conflict that could engulf neighbouring nations. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | Why did Israel bomb Syrian airports in the thick of its ongoing war with Hamas?

Six airports across France were evacuated, on Wednesday (Oct 18), after the authorities received an email of "threats of attack", news agency AFP cited a police source as saying.&nbsp;

This is the latest threat in a spate of such incidents reported in the country.

The evacuations at Lille, Lyon, Nantes, Nice, Toulouse and Beauvais airports near the French capital Paris would allow authorities to "clear up any doubts" if the threats were real, the source said.

As per AFP reports, France's DGAC aviation authority spokesman also confirmed the evacuations made over the bomb threats at Lille, Lyon, Toulouse and Beauvais but did not give any further details immediately.

The DGAC's online dashboard displayed noteworthy delays at Lille, Lyon and Toulouse airports respectively.

Nice Airport also took to its official X account and shared a post saying that after "an abandoned baggage item... a security perimeter was set up to allow the usual checks. The situation has now returned to normal".

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Following an abandoned baggage item in terminal 1, a security perimeter was set up to allow the usual checks to be carried out. The situation has now returned to normal.
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The authorities at Lyon's Bron airport also said that the all-clear had been given.

A spokeswoman at Lille said that three flights had been diverted, while a post on the airport's X account said security forces were on the scene.

The incident caused chaos among the passengers with some apparently confused over why they were being steered out of airports.

Palace of Versailles, Louvre Museum evacuated after bomb threats&nbsp;

Last week, the Louvre Museum in Paris and the Palace of Versailles were evacuated after receiving bomb threats. The alert came via an anonymous message online.

The spokeswoman for the Louvre told news agency AFP it had “received a written message stating that there was a risk to the museum and its visitors.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Six airports across France were evacuated, on Wednesday (Oct 18), after the authorities received an email of "threats of attack", news agency AFP cited a police source as saying.

Six airports across France were evacuated, on Wednesday (Oct 18), after the authorities received an email of "threats of attack", news agency AFP cited a police source as saying. This is the latest threat in a spate of such incidents reported in the country. The evacuations at Lille, Lyon, Nantes, Nice, Toulouse and Beauvais airports near the French capital Paris would allow authorities to "clear up any doubts" if the threats were real, the source said. As per AFP reports, France's DGAC aviation authority spokesman also confirmed the evacuations made over the bomb threats at Lille, Lyon, Toulouse and Beauvais but did not give any further details immediately. The DGAC's online dashboard displayed noteworthy delays at Lille, Lyon and Toulouse airports respectively. Nice Airport also took to its official X account and shared a post saying that after "an abandoned baggage item... a security perimeter was set up to allow the usual checks. The situation has now returned to normal". Following an abandoned baggage item in terminal 1, a security perimeter was set up to allow the usual checks to be carried out. The situation has now returned to normal. — Aéroport de Nice (@AeroportNice) October 18, 2023 × The authorities at Lyon's Bron airport also said that the all-clear had been given. A spokeswoman at Lille said that three flights had been diverted, while a post on the airport's X account said security forces were on the scene. The incident caused chaos among the passengers with some apparently confused over why they were being steered out of airports. Palace of Versailles, Louvre Museum evacuated after bomb threats Last week, the Louvre Museum in Paris and the Palace of Versailles were evacuated after receiving bomb threats. The alert came via an anonymous message online. The spokeswoman for the Louvre told news agency AFP it had “received a written message stating that there was a risk to the museum and its visitors.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Six airports evacuated in France after 'threats of attack'

On the eve of Independence Day, US airports saw severe travel havoc as more than 100 million people were under extreme weather warnings. On Monday alone, more than 3,000 flights inside, into, or out of the US were delayed or cancelled.

US: Foul weather, tech glitches and staffing shortages cause chaos at the airports

Air India Ltd. placed the largest aircraft order in aviation history, opting to purchase 540 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus on Monday (February 13), allowing the Tata Group airline to expand its operations both domestically and internationally, reported the Mint. Air India is estimated to spend a whopping $82 billion on the acquisition of short&nbsp;and long-haul aircraft, while the real cost would be less as bulk purchases are eligible for discounts and incentives.

Out of the total 540 aircraft, 470 are firm orders, while the remaining 70 are options with Boeing that Air India may subsequently exercise. 250 Airbus and 220 Boeing aircraft make up the 470 aircraft, with the first lot arriving later this year. The previous single-largest jet purchase, according to Bloomberg, was made by American Airlines in 2011 for 460 planes.

“The first aircraft to arrive will be 25 brand-new Boeing B737-800s and six Airbus A350-900s in the second half of 2023, with deliveries really ramping up in 2025 and beyond. In the meantime, our capacity growth will continue to be supported by the previously announced lease-in of additional narrow-body and wide-body aircraft and the restoration-to-service of the remainder of our grounded fleet," Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said in an email to employees, reported Mint.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-leaders-hail-billion-dollar-air-india-airbus-and-boeing-annoucement-562059">Western leaders hail billion-dollar Air India, Airbus, Boeing announcement</a>

Around 450 single-aisle aircraft from the Airbus 320 family and Boeing 737 MAX are included in the total order; these aircraft will be used for local and short-haul international operations. The remaining 90 aircraft, all dual-aisle planes, will travel to Europe and the Americas.

<h2>Why is the Air India order for 470 new aircraft such a huge&nbsp;deal?&nbsp;</h2>

The historic Air India purchase of 470 jets, valued between $80-100 billion, has caused the world to sit up and take notice because of its scale and the ramifications it has for Air India, the aviation industry, and some of the biggest global economies.&nbsp;

This is the biggest bulk order for aircraft; American Airlines' purchase of 460 aircraft in 2011 is now&nbsp;the second-highest. The deal, which took more than a year to work out, marks India's debut as one of the major aircraft-buying countries.&nbsp;

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Indian PM Narendra Modi addressing a virtual meeting&nbsp;on agreement between Air India and Airbus. Photo credits: Twitter

Air India has ordered 40 wide-bodied A350 planes and 210 narrow-bodied A320 neo-family planes from Airbus, reported Hindu BusinessLine.&nbsp;The Boeing order entails&nbsp;10 wide-bodied B777X planes, 20 wide-body B787 planes, and 190 narrow-body B737MAX planes.&nbsp;Indigo is reportedly considering similar plans to buy 500 aircraft, said the Hindu BusinessLine.&nbsp;

<h2>How is this order beneficial for Air India?</h2>

After the Tatas' takeover in early 2022, the former national airline of India, which had been making significant losses, has been working to improve its performance. By merging with Vistara recently, it became the nation's largest airline operating on foreign routes and the second-largest domestic airline after&nbsp;Indigo. Prior to the most recent order, the Tata group operated 218 aircraft, flying to 52 domestic and 38 overseas destinations.

With this deal, Air India's fleet size will more than double, and it will surpass Indigo's fleet of 300 aircraft to become the largest airline operating domestic routes as well. The kind of aircraft that&nbsp;Air India has ordered indicates that it aims to significantly expand its footprint on international routes as well as fly to both major and minor locations within the domestic market.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/google-layoffs-late-night-email-terminates-453-employees-in-india-562943">Google layoffs: Late-night email terminates 453 employees in India</a>

How Air India finances this transaction will be interesting to observe. When the Tata family assumed control of the airline, they had paid off around 15 per cent&nbsp;of the struggling airline's 61,562 crore debt. The Tatas, however, claim to have already refinanced the debt they inherited, as per a Hindu BusinessLine&nbsp;report.&nbsp;

<h2>What does the deal really mean for India's aviation sector?</h2>

The Maharajah will re-ascend the throne to rule supremely over India's skies, and the aviation industry in India will undergo a shakeout. The agreement aims to turn India into a major international air travel hub by significantly increasing the number of international&nbsp;air carriers operating from India. This will require a revamp&nbsp;of Indian airports too.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Chetan Sharma Resigns: Indian cricket Chief selector resigns

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The chairman of the Tata group suggests that some aircraft parts may be manufactured in India which will stimulate local manufacturing and provide new job opportunities.

<h2>Is this deal in tandem with the present passenger traffic?</h2>

Aviation traffic has undoubtedly increased during the previous 12 months. Between April and December 2022, domestic aviation traffic increased by 63 per cent&nbsp;year over year, according to ICRA, with 986 lakh passengers. Since the pandemic&nbsp;lows, the passenger load factor has also increased and now stands at 91 per cent.

India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) predicts that India will move up one spot in the next 10 years, moving from seventh to third in terms of civil aviation. By 2024, India is expected to surpass the UK to acquire the third-largest position in the domestic aviation industry. The population and rising buying power of India would undoubtedly lead to an increase in domestic aviation travel.&nbsp;

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Air India Ltd. placed the largest aircraft order in aviation history, opting to purchase 540 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus on Monday (February 13), allowing the Tata Group airline to expand its operations both domestically and internationally, reported the Mint.

Air India Ltd. placed the largest aircraft order in aviation history, opting to purchase 540 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus on Monday (February 13), allowing the Tata Group airline to expand its operations both domestically and internationally, reported the Mint. Air India is estimated to spend a whopping $82 billion on the acquisition of short and long-haul aircraft, while the real cost would be less as bulk purchases are eligible for discounts and incentives. Out of the total 540 aircraft, 470 are firm orders, while the remaining 70 are options with Boeing that Air India may subsequently exercise. 250 Airbus and 220 Boeing aircraft make up the 470 aircraft, with the first lot arriving later this year. The previous single-largest jet purchase, according to Bloomberg, was made by American Airlines in 2011 for 460 planes. “The first aircraft to arrive will be 25 brand-new Boeing B737-800s and six Airbus A350-900s in the second half of 2023, with deliveries really ramping up in 2025 and beyond. In the meantime, our capacity growth will continue to be supported by the previously announced lease-in of additional narrow-body and wide-body aircraft and the restoration-to-service of the remainder of our grounded fleet," Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said in an email to employees, reported Mint. ALSO READ | Western leaders hail billion-dollar Air India, Airbus, Boeing announcement Around 450 single-aisle aircraft from the Airbus 320 family and Boeing 737 MAX are included in the total order; these aircraft will be used for local and short-haul international operations. The remaining 90 aircraft, all dual-aisle planes, will travel to Europe and the Americas. Why is the Air India order for 470 new aircraft such a huge deal? The historic Air India purchase of 470 jets, valued between $80-100 billion, has caused the world to sit up and take notice because of its scale and the ramifications it has for Air India, the aviation industry, and some of the biggest global economies. This is the biggest bulk order for aircraft; American Airlines' purchase of 460 aircraft in 2011 is now the second-highest. The deal, which took more than a year to work out, marks India's debut as one of the major aircraft-buying countries. Indian PM Narendra Modi addressing a virtual meeting on agreement between Air India and Airbus. Photo credits: Twitter Air India has ordered 40 wide-bodied A350 planes and 210 narrow-bodied A320 neo-family planes from Airbus, reported Hindu BusinessLine. The Boeing order entails 10 wide-bodied B777X planes, 20 wide-body B787 planes, and 190 narrow-body B737MAX planes. Indigo is reportedly considering similar plans to buy 500 aircraft, said the Hindu BusinessLine. How is this order beneficial for Air India? After the Tatas' takeover in early 2022, the former national airline of India, which had been making significant losses, has been working to improve its performance. By merging with Vistara recently, it became the nation's largest airline operating on foreign routes and the second-largest domestic airline after Indigo. Prior to the most recent order, the Tata group operated 218 aircraft, flying to 52 domestic and 38 overseas destinations. With this deal, Air India's fleet size will more than double, and it will surpass Indigo's fleet of 300 aircraft to become the largest airline operating domestic routes as well. The kind of aircraft that Air India has ordered indicates that it aims to significantly expand its footprint on international routes as well as fly to both major and minor locations within the domestic market. ALSO READ | Google layoffs: Late-night email terminates 453 employees in India How Air India finances this transaction will be interesting to observe. When the Tata family assumed control of the airline, they had paid off around 15 per cent of the struggling airline's 61,562 crore debt. The Tatas, however, claim to have already refinanced the debt they inherited, as per a Hindu BusinessLine report. What does the deal really mean for India's aviation sector? The Maharajah will re-ascend the throne to rule supremely over India's skies, and the aviation industry in India will undergo a shakeout. The agreement aims to turn India into a major international air travel hub by significantly increasing the number of international air carriers operating from India. This will require a revamp of Indian airports too. ALSO WATCH | Chetan Sharma Resigns: Indian cricket Chief selector resigns The chairman of the Tata group suggests that some aircraft parts may be manufactured in India which will stimulate local manufacturing and provide new job opportunities. Is this deal in tandem with the present passenger traffic? Aviation traffic has undoubtedly increased during the previous 12 months. Between April and December 2022, domestic aviation traffic increased by 63 per cent year over year, according to ICRA, with 986 lakh passengers. Since the pandemic lows, the passenger load factor has also increased and now stands at 91 per cent. India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) predicts that India will move up one spot in the next 10 years, moving from seventh to third in terms of civil aviation. By 2024, India is expected to surpass the UK to acquire the third-largest position in the domestic aviation industry. The population and rising buying power of India would undoubtedly lead to an increase in domestic aviation travel. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED: What does Air India's historic aircraft deal mean for India?

The UK government will soon ease some rules regarding security check-ins at the airport in 2024. Passengers at most major British airports will be able to carry liquids in two-liter containers.

WION Dispatch: UK airports to relax aircraft liquid rules beginning in mid-2024

Some of the major Indian airports like Delhi and Mumbai are struggling to handle the holiday traffic. Many people have complained about missing flights due to long queues. Watch this to know more.

Chaos at Indian airports ahead of holiday season

For a seamless and hassle-free air travel experience, India has launched a mechanism called Digi Yatra today. You can now pass through various checkpoints at Delhi, Bengaluru and Varanasi airports using facial features to establish your identity, that could be linked to your boarding pass.

Facial recognition based entry at these Indian airports now

Some of the US airport websites were hit by a cyber attack. Though there are no concrete reports on disruptions in services, the sites were not offline but they were overloaded from fake web users.

World Business Watch: US airport websites hit by cyber attacks

Europe is slashing energy consumption as Russia cuts off supplies. Germany has switched off street lights. France plans to ban illuminated billboards. Spain has limited air conditioning at airports. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Lights off in Europe as winter approaches

The Canadian government announced on Friday that it was suspending random Covid tests at airports till the end of June. The step has been taken with a view to reducing chronic delays for travellers.The tests will be put on hold on Saturday. The government statement said that the tests will resume "off site" on July 1.

"We continue to work with airports, airlines, baggage handlers, and other partners to implement solutions to reduce delays as we approach the summer peak season," it said.

Number of aviation officials have expressed their displeasure in recent weeks against the tests. They've said that the tests have worsened wait time at the airports.

In Toronto, as in Montreal, it takes several hours for passengers to leave the airport. A nationwide labor shortage has worsened recently and is affecting all sectors.&nbsp;

Many passengers have taken to social media in recent days to complain about being stuck in their planes after landing before being allowed to disembark, but also about long queues when checking their baggage.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-end-covid-tests-for-air-travellers-487028">US to end Covid tests for air travellers</a>

The country's main airline, Air Canada, has admitted to being hit by these problems.&nbsp;

Air Canada spokesman Peter Fitzpatrick told the media that "extended delays in security and customs," had recently forced airlines to cancel some flights.&nbsp;

The government has promised to continue to hire screening officers at airports. The statement Friday said 865 people have joined the ranks of air transport security since April.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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The Canadian government announced on Friday that it was suspending random Covid tests at airports till the end of June. The step has been taken with a view to reducing chronic delays for travellers.

The Canadian government announced on Friday that it was suspending random Covid tests at airports till the end of June. The step has been taken with a view to reducing chronic delays for travellers.The tests will be put on hold on Saturday. The government statement said that the tests will resume "off site" on July 1. "We continue to work with airports, airlines, baggage handlers, and other partners to implement solutions to reduce delays as we approach the summer peak season," it said. Number of aviation officials have expressed their displeasure in recent weeks against the tests. They've said that the tests have worsened wait time at the airports. In Toronto, as in Montreal, it takes several hours for passengers to leave the airport. A nationwide labor shortage has worsened recently and is affecting all sectors. Many passengers have taken to social media in recent days to complain about being stuck in their planes after landing before being allowed to disembark, but also about long queues when checking their baggage. Also Read | US to end Covid tests for air travellers The country's main airline, Air Canada, has admitted to being hit by these problems. Air Canada spokesman Peter Fitzpatrick told the media that "extended delays in security and customs," had recently forced airlines to cancel some flights. The government has promised to continue to hire screening officers at airports. The statement Friday said 865 people have joined the ranks of air transport security since April. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Canada: Random Covid tests at airports suspended

Nowadays, several efforts are being made to reduce carbon emissions in every walk of life. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In this attempt, airports are also making efforts to use new equipment. One such thing is a TaxiBot. &nbsp;

It has been deployed by India’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport in New Delhi since May 2019. It is one of the first airports in the world to employ it. &nbsp;

If you are wondering what is a TaxiBot, it is a semi-robotic hybrid special purpose vehicle. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-290000-tonne-shipments-get-trapped-indonesian-palm-oil-export-ban-to-hit-india-badly-474737" hreflang="en">As shipments get trapped, Indonesian palm oil export ban to hit India badly</a>

Israel Aerospace Industries has developed this equipment, which helps in towbarless movement of aircraft. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The TaxiBot has an 800 horsepower (HP) hybrid-electric engine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

What makes it really special is that it can be controlled by the pilot from the cockpit with the help of regular controls. &nbsp;

It is generally used to move an aircraft from the terminal gate to take-off point (taxi-out phase) and returning to the gate after landing (taxi-in phase). &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties

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In 2021, two TaxiBots were operational with three airlines at airport in New Delhi. The number is slated to go up to 15 in the next some years. &nbsp;

At the airport, it has helped in reducing around 532 tonnes of carbon by saving 2.14 lakh litres of aviation turbine fuel (ATF) till 2021, which would have been used by the aircraft during taxing. &nbsp;

“TaxiBot’s also facilitated in reducing the risk of foreign object debris (FOD) damage to the aircraft during its ground movement and taxiing noise at the airport. It is resourceful to ATC as TaxiBot offers faster apron clearance and assist airlines in reducing turnaround time for its ground operations,” the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) had earlier said. &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Nowadays, several efforts are being made to reduce carbon emissions in every walk of life. In this attempt, airports are also making efforts to use new equipment.

Nowadays, several efforts are being made to reduce carbon emissions in every walk of life. In this attempt, airports are also making efforts to use new equipment. One such thing is a TaxiBot. It has been deployed by India’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport in New Delhi since May 2019. It is one of the first airports in the world to employ it. If you are wondering what is a TaxiBot, it is a semi-robotic hybrid special purpose vehicle. Also Read: As shipments get trapped, Indonesian palm oil export ban to hit India badly Israel Aerospace Industries has developed this equipment, which helps in towbarless movement of aircraft. The TaxiBot has an 800 horsepower (HP) hybrid-electric engine. What makes it really special is that it can be controlled by the pilot from the cockpit with the help of regular controls. It is generally used to move an aircraft from the terminal gate to take-off point (taxi-out phase) and returning to the gate after landing (taxi-in phase). Watch: Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties × In 2021, two TaxiBots were operational with three airlines at airport in New Delhi. The number is slated to go up to 15 in the next some years. At the airport, it has helped in reducing around 532 tonnes of carbon by saving 2.14 lakh litres of aviation turbine fuel (ATF) till 2021, which would have been used by the aircraft during taxing. “TaxiBot’s also facilitated in reducing the risk of foreign object debris (FOD) damage to the aircraft during its ground movement and taxiing noise at the airport. It is resourceful to ATC as TaxiBot offers faster apron clearance and assist airlines in reducing turnaround time for its ground operations,” the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) had earlier said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

What is a TaxiBot employed at airports to reduce carbon emissions?

5G has led to a major disruption in aviation. Several flights to America were cancelled - after airlines warned of a "catastrophic disruption" due to the 5G rollout. Is 5G dangerous for airplanes? Palki Sharma has the answers.

Gravitas: Why pilots flying to America are afraid of 5G?

Major international airlines have resumed normal service to the United States after a slew of cancellations on Wednesday over fears of the 5G rollout.

Major international airlines restore flight to US after 5G confusion

Major international airlines rushed to rejig or cancel flights to the US ahead of a 5G wireless rollout on Wednesday that has triggered safety concerns.

Major airlines scramble to rejig schedules amid US 5G rollout

Major US airline leaders have warned of a “catastrophic” disruption from the rollout of a brand new 5G service near airports.

Major US airlines warn of a 'calamity' against 5G rollout near airports

As the world unlocks, countries are using innovative solutions to make travel safer. Many Indian airports too are set to get 'smarter'. Watch the video and see how new technologies are making airports high-tech and reshaping the passenger experience.

Tech It Out: Futuristic airports around the world

Keeping its promise to sanction Belarus the European Union has banned Belarusian planes in its airspace and airports.

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Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday requested the Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to speed up the process to build six more airports in the state.

"I request the Ministry of Civil Aviation to kindly expedite finalizing the sites and getting all statutory clearances on a single-window basis so that the government can commence the infrastructure work," said Rao.

Rao is currently in New Delhi, where he personally met Puri and discussed the matter.

KCR, as Rao is popularly known, said this will enable Telangana to start non-scheduled operators` permit (NSOP) operations with its own funds.

Rao reminded Puri that he had requested the Prime Minister immediately after the formation of Telangana in 2014 to establish six more airports as the state has only one at Hyderabad.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fire-in-hyderabad-factory-several-injured-many-feared-trapped-349294">Fire in Hyderabad factory: Several injured, many feared trapped</a>

Telangana had proposed new airports to be built at Basantnagar (Peddapally district), Mamnoor (Warangal urban), Adilabad, Jakranpally (Nizamabad), Devarkadra (Mehboobnagar) and Bhadradri Kothagudem.

Following discussions with the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it was decided that only no-frills airports for smaller aircraft will be developed, which may be expanded in the future for commercial operations depending on demand.

"Though AAI has already taken up the Obstacle Limitation Surface Survey (OLS), soil testing and other investigations at the sites and some draft reports have recently come, the final reports are yet to be given," he highlighted.

Rao also produced a copy of the letter he wrote to Narendra Modi on September 6, 2014 about the proposal for Puri`s reference.

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday requested the Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to speed up the process to build six more airports in the state.

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday requested the Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to speed up the process to build six more airports in the state. "I request the Ministry of Civil Aviation to kindly expedite finalizing the sites and getting all statutory clearances on a single-window basis so that the government can commence the infrastructure work," said Rao. Rao is currently in New Delhi, where he personally met Puri and discussed the matter. KCR, as Rao is popularly known, said this will enable Telangana to start non-scheduled operators` permit (NSOP) operations with its own funds. Rao reminded Puri that he had requested the Prime Minister immediately after the formation of Telangana in 2014 to establish six more airports as the state has only one at Hyderabad. Also Read | Fire in Hyderabad factory: Several injured, many feared trapped Telangana had proposed new airports to be built at Basantnagar (Peddapally district), Mamnoor (Warangal urban), Adilabad, Jakranpally (Nizamabad), Devarkadra (Mehboobnagar) and Bhadradri Kothagudem. Following discussions with the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it was decided that only no-frills airports for smaller aircraft will be developed, which may be expanded in the future for commercial operations depending on demand. "Though AAI has already taken up the Obstacle Limitation Surface Survey (OLS), soil testing and other investigations at the sites and some draft reports have recently come, the final reports are yet to be given," he highlighted. Rao also produced a copy of the letter he wrote to Narendra Modi on September 6, 2014 about the proposal for Puri`s reference.

Telangana CM asks Centre to expedite work on 6 airports

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