The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports of Airports Authority of India (AAI) through Public Private Partnership (PPP). 
 
An official release said that the cabinet accorded its approval for leasing the three airports for operation, management and development to Adani Enterprises Ltd, who was declared as the successful bidder in global competitive bidding conducted by the Airports Authority of India. 
 
The lease is for a period of fifty years. The release said that the projects will bring efficiency in service delivery, expertise, enterprise and professionalism apart from harnessing the needed investments in the public sector.It said that the government had leased out the Airports Authority of India`s airports at Delhi and Mumbai on Public Private Partnership for Operation, Management and Development about a decade ago.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/new-age-of-air-travel-post-lockdown-to-witness-half-empty-aircraft-temperature-checks-at-airports-299929" hreflang="en">New age of air travel post-lockdown to witness half-empty aircraft, temperature checks at airports</a> 
 
The release said that these PPP experiments have helped create world-class airports and helped in the delivery of efficient and quality services to the airport passengers. The move has also helped AAI in enhancing its revenues and focusing on developing airports and air navigation infrastructure in the rest of the country, it said. 
 
The release said that revenue received by AAI from PPP partners enabled AAI to create infrastructure facilities in tier-two and tier-three cities and also to upgrade their airports to international standards. It said PPP airports in India are consistently ranked among the top 5 in their respective categories by the Airports Council International (ACI) in terms of Airport Service Quality (ASQ). 
 
"Therefore, Government decided to lease out more airports of AAI for Operation, Management and Development under PPP through Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC)," the release said.The government has also constituted an Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) to decide on any issue falling beyond the scope of PPPAC."PPPAC approved the transaction documents. The entire bidding process was carried out under the supervision and directions of EGoS which comprised of representatives of NITI Aayog, Department of Expenditure and Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) of Ministry of Finance (MoF)," the release said. 
 
Airports Authority of India released Request for Proposal in December 2018 through global competitive bidding wherein per passenger fee is the bidding parameter.The technical February last year and the financial bids of the qualified bidders were opened in February last year."Adani Enterprises Ltd. has won all the bids by quoting highest per passenger fee for all the three airports - Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvanathapuram," the release said.

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports of Airports Authority of India (AAI) through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports of Airports Authority of India (AAI) through Public Private Partnership (PPP). An official release said that the cabinet accorded its approval for leasing the three airports for operation, management and development to Adani Enterprises Ltd, who was declared as the successful bidder in global competitive bidding conducted by the Airports Authority of India. The lease is for a period of fifty years. The release said that the projects will bring efficiency in service delivery, expertise, enterprise and professionalism apart from harnessing the needed investments in the public sector.It said that the government had leased out the Airports Authority of India`s airports at Delhi and Mumbai on Public Private Partnership for Operation, Management and Development about a decade ago. Also read: New age of air travel post-lockdown to witness half-empty aircraft, temperature checks at airports The release said that these PPP experiments have helped create world-class airports and helped in the delivery of efficient and quality services to the airport passengers. The move has also helped AAI in enhancing its revenues and focusing on developing airports and air navigation infrastructure in the rest of the country, it said. The release said that revenue received by AAI from PPP partners enabled AAI to create infrastructure facilities in tier-two and tier-three cities and also to upgrade their airports to international standards. It said PPP airports in India are consistently ranked among the top 5 in their respective categories by the Airports Council International (ACI) in terms of Airport Service Quality (ASQ). "Therefore, Government decided to lease out more airports of AAI for Operation, Management and Development under PPP through Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC)," the release said.The government has also constituted an Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) to decide on any issue falling beyond the scope of PPPAC."PPPAC approved the transaction documents. The entire bidding process was carried out under the supervision and directions of EGoS which comprised of representatives of NITI Aayog, Department of Expenditure and Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) of Ministry of Finance (MoF)," the release said. Airports Authority of India released Request for Proposal in December 2018 through global competitive bidding wherein per passenger fee is the bidding parameter.The technical February last year and the financial bids of the qualified bidders were opened in February last year."Adani Enterprises Ltd. has won all the bids by quoting highest per passenger fee for all the three airports - Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvanathapuram," the release said.

Cabinet approves proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports through PPP

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The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Thursday said body scanners should be made mandatory at all major airports within a year.

It also informed that body scanners will be made mandatory at all the other airports in two years.

A full-body scanner is a device used to scan an individual's body for security, screening purposes, without making physical contact.

The technology helps in seeing an alternate wavelength image of a person`s body to detect any suspicious items.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Thursday said body scanners should be made mandatory at all major airports within a year. It also informed that body scanners will be made mandatory at all the other airports in two years.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Thursday said body scanners should be made mandatory at all major airports within a year. It also informed that body scanners will be made mandatory at all the other airports in two years. A full-body scanner is a device used to scan an individual's body for security, screening purposes, without making physical contact. The technology helps in seeing an alternate wavelength image of a person`s body to detect any suspicious items.

Body scanners to be made mandatory at all airports in 2 years

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-indias-operations-hit-globally-due-to-technical-glitch-official-213832">five-hour shutdown of Air India's check-in software</a>, which occurred Saturday morning, is still causing its ripple effect as the airline said 137 flights will be running with a delay on Sunday.

The average duration of delay -- on these 137 flights of Sunday -- would be of 197 minutes, the airline's spokesperson said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/155-flights-delayed-as-air-indias-check-in-software-shuts-down-for-more-than-5-hours-213892">Thousands of passengers had a harrowing time Saturday morning</a> at&nbsp;airports across the world as Air India's passenger service system (PSS) software, which looks after check-in, baggage and reservation, did not function from 3.30 am to 8.45 am due to a technical glitch.

The spokesperson said total 149 flights were delayed on Saturday because of the software shutdown.?

When asked about its effect on Sunday, he said, "Due to delay in first sector, 137 flights are delayed by 197 minutes (average)."

Once an aircraft is delayed in first sector, it is bound to be delayed in the second and third sectors as well. An aircraft generally goes from one sector to another during the day. For example, while Delhi-Mumbai is one sector, Mumbai-Bengaluru is another sector and Bengaluru-Chennai is the third sector.

The average number of flights that Air India group, which also includes subsidiaries Alliance Air and Air India Express, flies daily is 674.

The five-hour shutdown of Air India's check-in software, which occurred Saturday morning, is still causing its ripple effect as the airline said 137 flights will be running with a delay on Sunday.

The five-hour shutdown of Air India's check-in software, which occurred Saturday morning, is still causing its ripple effect as the airline said 137 flights will be running with a delay on Sunday. The average duration of delay -- on these 137 flights of Sunday -- would be of 197 minutes, the airline's spokesperson said. Thousands of passengers had a harrowing time Saturday morning at airports across the world as Air India's passenger service system (PSS) software, which looks after check-in, baggage and reservation, did not function from 3.30 am to 8.45 am due to a technical glitch. The spokesperson said total 149 flights were delayed on Saturday because of the software shutdown.? When asked about its effect on Sunday, he said, "Due to delay in first sector, 137 flights are delayed by 197 minutes (average)." Once an aircraft is delayed in first sector, it is bound to be delayed in the second and third sectors as well. An aircraft generally goes from one sector to another during the day. For example, while Delhi-Mumbai is one sector, Mumbai-Bengaluru is another sector and Bengaluru-Chennai is the third sector. The average number of flights that Air India group, which also includes subsidiaries Alliance Air and Air India Express, flies daily is 674.

Air India software shutdown effect: 137 flights to be delayed today

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Friday issued a detailed Circular with an aim to curb the movement of unauthorized arms, contraband goods and cash at the airports, in the wake of the announcement of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the ensuing General Elections.

The Bureau has given specific instructions to be followed by the Airport authorities and other government officials.

Officers of BCAS will be conducting surprise inspections of these airports to check the compliance of these instructions.

Apart from strengthening the security at the regular commercial airports, BCAS has directed the airport authorities to check flights from uncontrolled, remote and unserved private and public airstrips, helipads and waterdromes.

It has also directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air Traffic Control (ATC) to inform State Police, BCAS and Income Tax Department about such flights in advance.

ATC has been specifically directed to share records of the travel plan of chartered aircrafts or helicopters half an hour in advance to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the State and the DEO of the district, in which the airport is located.

As per direction of the Election Commission, Director General of Police (DGPs) of States have been ordered to deploy police units to check these flights during Code of Conduct.

The operators of all private aircrafts or helicopters have been asked to declare the contents of the baggage, suitcases carried on these flights to CEO of the states, DEOs of the districts, state police and IT Department.

With an aim to keep strict vigil over movement of cash through all airports, Income Tax Department and CISF have been extended with all requisite cooperation for checking and surveillance activities.&nbsp;

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Friday issued a detailed Circular with an aim to curb the movement of unauthorized arms, contraband goods and cash at the airports, in the wake of the announcement of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the ensuing General Elections.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Friday issued a detailed Circular with an aim to curb the movement of unauthorized arms, contraband goods and cash at the airports, in the wake of the announcement of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the ensuing General Elections. The Bureau has given specific instructions to be followed by the Airport authorities and other government officials. Officers of BCAS will be conducting surprise inspections of these airports to check the compliance of these instructions. Apart from strengthening the security at the regular commercial airports, BCAS has directed the airport authorities to check flights from uncontrolled, remote and unserved private and public airstrips, helipads and waterdromes. It has also directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air Traffic Control (ATC) to inform State Police, BCAS and Income Tax Department about such flights in advance. ATC has been specifically directed to share records of the travel plan of chartered aircrafts or helicopters half an hour in advance to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the State and the DEO of the district, in which the airport is located. As per direction of the Election Commission, Director General of Police (DGPs) of States have been ordered to deploy police units to check these flights during Code of Conduct. The operators of all private aircrafts or helicopters have been asked to declare the contents of the baggage, suitcases carried on these flights to CEO of the states, DEOs of the districts, state police and IT Department. With an aim to keep strict vigil over movement of cash through all airports, Income Tax Department and CISF have been extended with all requisite cooperation for checking and surveillance activities.

BCAS issues circular to strengthen security at airports ahead of Lok Sabha polls

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

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-indias-passenger-revenue-grows-by-20-in-q3-of-2018-19-189895">Air India'</a>s Mumbai <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/air-india-pilot-found-dead-in-riyadh-hotel-141134">control centre </a>on Saturday received a phone call threatening to hijack its plane, following which Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) ordered all airlines and CISF to follow specific enhanced measures to ensure security, according to an official note.

"A telephonic message received by the station duty office, AI (Air India) AOCC (Airport Operation Control Centre) Mumbai, stating information regarding a threat to Indian Airlines flight getting hijacked to Pakistan on 23.2.2019," stated the BCAS note dated February 23.

The note added, "In view of the above, APSU (Airport Security Unit)/ASG (Aviation Security Group) and all aircraft operators shall adopt the following (eight) measures with immediate effect."

Both APSU and ASG are part of the Central Industrial Security Force. Indian Airlines is a part of Air India only.

According to BCAS note, the measures to be followed are:

Strict access control to regulate entry to the terminal building, airside, all operational area and other aviation facilities.

Intensive checking of vehicles entering the car parking area to preclude the possibility of car bomb attacks.

Enhanced screening of passengers, staff and visitors including an enhanced random screening at the main gate.

Enhanced screening and protection of hold baggage, cargo, cargo terminal, catering,mails, etc.

Surveillance through CCTV cameras as well as manual surveillance in and around the terminal building and operational areas.

Quick reaction team and perimeter patrolling to be strengthened.

Manning of all cargo gates and vehicle entry gates will be strengthened with strong-armed support.

Any other security measures based on local intelligence inputs.

The Parliament passed Anti-Hijacking (Amendment) Bill in 2014 in order to lay down new protocol to deal with the hijacking of an aeroplane.

"The Bill provides death punishment for the offence of hijacking, where such offence results in the death of a hostage or of a security personnel; or with imprisonment for life and the moveable and immovable property of such persons shall also be liable to be confiscated," the central government said in a statement on December 3, 2014.

Air India's Mumbai control centre on Saturday received a phone call threatening to hijack its plane, following which Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) ordered all airlines and CISF to follow specific enhanced measures to ensure security, according to an official note.

Air India's Mumbai control centre on Saturday received a phone call threatening to hijack its plane, following which Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) ordered all airlines and CISF to follow specific enhanced measures to ensure security, according to an official note. "A telephonic message received by the station duty office, AI (Air India) AOCC (Airport Operation Control Centre) Mumbai, stating information regarding a threat to Indian Airlines flight getting hijacked to Pakistan on 23.2.2019," stated the BCAS note dated February 23. The note added, "In view of the above, APSU (Airport Security Unit)/ASG (Aviation Security Group) and all aircraft operators shall adopt the following (eight) measures with immediate effect." Both APSU and ASG are part of the Central Industrial Security Force. Indian Airlines is a part of Air India only. According to BCAS note, the measures to be followed are: Strict access control to regulate entry to the terminal building, airside, all operational area and other aviation facilities. Intensive checking of vehicles entering the car parking area to preclude the possibility of car bomb attacks. Enhanced screening of passengers, staff and visitors including an enhanced random screening at the main gate. Enhanced screening and protection of hold baggage, cargo, cargo terminal, catering,mails, etc. Surveillance through CCTV cameras as well as manual surveillance in and around the terminal building and operational areas. Quick reaction team and perimeter patrolling to be strengthened. Manning of all cargo gates and vehicle entry gates will be strengthened with strong-armed support. Any other security measures based on local intelligence inputs. The Parliament passed Anti-Hijacking (Amendment) Bill in 2014 in order to lay down new protocol to deal with the hijacking of an aeroplane. "The Bill provides death punishment for the offence of hijacking, where such offence results in the death of a hostage or of a security personnel; or with imprisonment for life and the moveable and immovable property of such persons shall also be liable to be confiscated," the central government said in a statement on December 3, 2014.

Air India’s Mumbai control centre receives hijack threat call, all airports across country put on high alert

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/train-18-trial-for-engineless-semi-high-speed-train-from-next-month-162258">railways</a> is planning to seal train stations just like how airports function and passengers will have to arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure of trains to complete the process of security checks.

The security plan — with high-end technology — has already been put in motion at Prayagraj, in anticipation of the Kumbh Mela which begins this month and at Hoobly railway station in Karnataka with a blueprint for 202 more stations ready for implementation, Railway Protection Force Director General Arun Kumar said.

"The plan is to seal the railway stations. It is primarily about identifying openings and to determine how many can be closed. There are areas which will be closed through permanent boundary walls, others will be manned by RPF personnel and yet others will have collapsible gates," he said.

"At each entry point, there will be random security checks. However, unlike at airports, passengers need not come hours in advance, but just 15-20 minutes ahead of their departure times to ensure that they are not delayed because of the security process," he said.

Mr Kumar said while security will increase, the presence of security personnel will not. "If we are investing in technology, then workforce requirement will reduce," he said.

These steps are a part of a security plan under the Integrated Security System (ISS) which was approved in 2016 to strengthen surveillance mechanism at 202 railway stations.

The ISS will comprise CCTV cameras, access control, personal and baggage screening system and bomb detection and disposal system which together provide multiple checking of passengers and baggage from the point of entry in the station premises till boarding of the train. The anticipated cost of the ISS project stands at Rs. 385.06 crores.

"The security plan envisages a layered security check where passengers will be scrutinised even before they enter the station premises to ease the pressure at stations during peak hours," Mr Kumar said.

It will also include real-time face recognition software which will alert the RPF command centre of any known offenders.

"Passengers will be checked randomly - every eighth or ninth passenger will undergo the process on his arrival at the station," he said.

The railways is planning to seal train stations just like how airports function and passengers will have to arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure of trains to complete the process of security checks.

The railways is planning to seal train stations just like how airports function and passengers will have to arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure of trains to complete the process of security checks. The security plan — with high-end technology — has already been put in motion at Prayagraj, in anticipation of the Kumbh Mela which begins this month and at Hoobly railway station in Karnataka with a blueprint for 202 more stations ready for implementation, Railway Protection Force Director General Arun Kumar said. "The plan is to seal the railway stations. It is primarily about identifying openings and to determine how many can be closed. There are areas which will be closed through permanent boundary walls, others will be manned by RPF personnel and yet others will have collapsible gates," he said. "At each entry point, there will be random security checks. However, unlike at airports, passengers need not come hours in advance, but just 15-20 minutes ahead of their departure times to ensure that they are not delayed because of the security process," he said. Mr Kumar said while security will increase, the presence of security personnel will not. "If we are investing in technology, then workforce requirement will reduce," he said. These steps are a part of a security plan under the Integrated Security System (ISS) which was approved in 2016 to strengthen surveillance mechanism at 202 railway stations. The ISS will comprise CCTV cameras, access control, personal and baggage screening system and bomb detection and disposal system which together provide multiple checking of passengers and baggage from the point of entry in the station premises till boarding of the train. The anticipated cost of the ISS project stands at Rs. 385.06 crores. "The security plan envisages a layered security check where passengers will be scrutinised even before they enter the station premises to ease the pressure at stations during peak hours," Mr Kumar said. It will also include real-time face recognition software which will alert the RPF command centre of any known offenders. "Passengers will be checked randomly - every eighth or ninth passenger will undergo the process on his arrival at the station," he said.

Arrive at least 20 mins before departure: Railways planning to seal train stations like airports

Airports across the country owe&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;970 crore to the CISF for providing them security, a top officer of the paramilitary force said today. While&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;880 crore is pending against joint venture airports or privately-run facilities,&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;90 crore is due against airports operated by the Airports Authority of India or AAI, Central Industrial Security Force Director-General Rajesh Ranjan told reporters.

Out of the&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;880 crore, the maximum&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;788 crore is pending against Indira Gandhi International Airport in the national capital, run by Delhi International Airport Limited, he said.

"We have communicated this to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Home Affairs as they are the expert ministries to figure out the solution," the officer said.

Ranjan said any call on withdrawal of the CISF from these airports, owing to the dues, can be taken by the two ministries as they are "authorised to take a call on that."

The CISF is tasked as the security force to guard civil airports in the country; 60 such facilities are under its cover.

Airports across the country owe Rs 970 crore to the CISF for providing them security, a top officer of the paramilitary force said today. While Rs 880 crore is pending against joint venture airports or privately-run facilities, Rs 90 crore is due against airports operated by the Airports Authority of India or AAI, Central Industrial Security Force Director-General Rajesh Ranjan told reporters.

Airports across the country owe Rs 970 crore to the CISF for providing them security, a top officer of the paramilitary force said today. While Rs 880 crore is pending against joint venture airports or privately-run facilities, Rs 90 crore is due against airports operated by the Airports Authority of India or AAI, Central Industrial Security Force Director-General Rajesh Ranjan told reporters. Out of the Rs 880 crore, the maximum Rs 788 crore is pending against Indira Gandhi International Airport in the national capital, run by Delhi International Airport Limited, he said. "We have communicated this to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Home Affairs as they are the expert ministries to figure out the solution," the officer said. Ranjan said any call on withdrawal of the CISF from these airports, owing to the dues, can be taken by the two ministries as they are "authorised to take a call on that." The CISF is tasked as the security force to guard civil airports in the country; 60 such facilities are under its cover.

Airports owe Rs 970 crore dues to CISF, Delhi highest at Rs 788 Crore

Travellers will soon be able to enter airports in the country with facial recognition biometric under the government's Digi Yatra initiative.

Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said the initiative would be "forward-looking and futuristic" and would be launched soon.

He also said it would be voluntary for passengers on whether to opt for facial recognition biometric for air travel.

Digi Yatra initiative seeks to promote paperless and hassle-free air travel.

It is biometrics-based digital processing system for passenger entry and related requirements at the airport.

The Digi Yatra platform would be operational by February 2019, according to the ministry.&nbsp;

Travellers will soon be able to enter airports in the country with facial recognition biometric under the government's Digi Yatra initiative. Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said the initiative would be "forward-looking and futuristic" and would be launched soon.

Travellers will soon be able to enter airports in the country with facial recognition biometric under the government's Digi Yatra initiative. Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said the initiative would be "forward-looking and futuristic" and would be launched soon. He also said it would be voluntary for passengers on whether to opt for facial recognition biometric for air travel. Digi Yatra initiative seeks to promote paperless and hassle-free air travel. It is biometrics-based digital processing system for passenger entry and related requirements at the airport. The Digi Yatra platform would be operational by February 2019, according to the ministry.

Soon, face recognition to allow flyers to enter airports: Civil Aviation Minister

Indira Gandhi International airport has now made it to the world's top 20 busiest airports in terms of traffic, after jumping six places from last year.&nbsp;

The GMR-group-run New Delhi airport jumped from 22nd rank in 2016 to 16th rank solidifying its status as one of the fastest growing airports in the world for passenger traffic, as per the Airports Council International (ACI).

"Delhi, the country's busiest airport for passenger traffic, grew by 14.1 per cent year-over-year at 63.45 million, pushing it up from 22nd to the 16th busiest airport in the world," the ACI said in the release.&nbsp;

Following India are Jakarta/Soekarno-Hatta (CGK), Singapore Changi (SIN), Seoul/Incheon (ICN) and Denver (DEN). John F Kennedy (JFK) airport has been dropped from the latest list - ranking at 22nd worldwide from the 19th position last year. Despite the lower ranking JFK saw a 0.49 per cent increase in total passengers between 2016 and 2017, the ACI report said.

Even with this rapid growth in throughout, Delhi was also ranked first in Airport Service Quality for airports above 40 million passengers per annum along with the Mumbai airport, it said.&nbsp;

The results are based on reports from 1,202 airports worldwide where Indian and Chinese airports where major&nbsp;contributors to growth Air cargo.&nbsp;

Moreover, according to the Airports Council International (ACI), Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Chennai were among the fastest growing airports in the world last year.

The report also revealed that Atlanta-Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) has secured top spot again. With almost 104 million passengers, the airport is within a two-hour flight of 80% of the United States’ population. Beijing (PEK), holds second spot and Dubai (DXB) remained in the third position. As a major connection point for long-haul international flights, Dubai International Airport is also the world’s busiest in terms of international passengers. Total passenger traffic at DXB grew 5.5% in 2017.

The GMR-group-run New Delhi airport jumped from 22nd rank in 2016 to 16th rank solidifying its status as one of the fastest growing airports in the world for passenger traffic

Indira Gandhi International airport has now made it to the world's top 20 busiest airports in terms of traffic, after jumping six places from last year. The GMR-group-run New Delhi airport jumped from 22nd rank in 2016 to 16th rank solidifying its status as one of the fastest growing airports in the world for passenger traffic, as per the Airports Council International (ACI). "Delhi, the country's busiest airport for passenger traffic, grew by 14.1 per cent year-over-year at 63.45 million, pushing it up from 22nd to the 16th busiest airport in the world," the ACI said in the release. Following India are Jakarta/Soekarno-Hatta (CGK), Singapore Changi (SIN), Seoul/Incheon (ICN) and Denver (DEN). John F Kennedy (JFK) airport has been dropped from the latest list - ranking at 22nd worldwide from the 19th position last year. Despite the lower ranking JFK saw a 0.49 per cent increase in total passengers between 2016 and 2017, the ACI report said. Even with this rapid growth in throughout, Delhi was also ranked first in Airport Service Quality for airports above 40 million passengers per annum along with the Mumbai airport, it said. The results are based on reports from 1,202 airports worldwide where Indian and Chinese airports where major contributors to growth Air cargo. Moreover, according to the Airports Council International (ACI), Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Chennai were among the fastest growing airports in the world last year. The report also revealed that Atlanta-Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) has secured top spot again. With almost 104 million passengers, the airport is within a two-hour flight of 80% of the United States’ population. Beijing (PEK), holds second spot and Dubai (DXB) remained in the third position. As a major connection point for long-haul international flights, Dubai International Airport is also the world’s busiest in terms of international passengers. Total passenger traffic at DXB grew 5.5% in 2017.

Delhi's IGI airport now among the top 20 busiest airports worldwide

Thousands of passengers at four German airports, including the biggest hub Frankfurt, were stranded on Tuesday as ground staff and other public sector workers staged walkouts across the country to increase the pressure in a pay dispute.

Lufthansa said on Monday it was cancelling more than 800 of its planned 1,600 flights on Tuesday and Frankfurt airport operator Fraport has warned of disruption.

As well as Frankfurt, airports in Munich, Cologne and Bremen were hit. The industrial action also affected nurseries, rubbish collection services and swimming pools in several German states.

"We want to send a clear signal to employers with these massive strikes," Frank Bsirske, head of Verdi, Germany's biggest labour union for service sector employees, said. "We expect an offer to be made for the third round of talks that is worthy of discussion so we can reach a good solution."

He said the union would escalate the dispute if employers did not present an offer next week. The third round of talks start on April 15.

Verdi has called for a 6 percent pay rise for its 2.3 million public sector employees at the federal and local level. Germany's federal government and municipalities have rejected that, saying such an increase would force them to outsource jobs.

The strikes, which started at 5 a.m. (0300 GMT) were due to run until 6 p.m. (1600 GMT) on Tuesday.

Europe's biggest economy is in robust shape, with record tax revenues and a budget surplus. Rising employment, inflation-busting pay hikes and low borrowing costs are fuelling a consumer-led upswing.

In the industrial sector, 3.9 million workers agreed on a pay and flexible working hours deal in February that amounted to a roughly 4 percent rise per year for 2018 and 2019. Inflation edged up to 1.5 percent in March.

The European Central Bank is keeping a close eye on the German wage negotiations for any sign that wage growth is picking up, potentially lifting inflation and allowing the ECB to start winding down its massive stimulus programme.

Neighbouring France has also faced industrial action in the last few weeks in protests against President Emmanuel Macron's planned reforms.

The strikes, which started at 5 a.m. (0300 GMT) were due to run until 6 p.m. (1600 GMT) on Tuesday

Thousands of passengers at four German airports, including the biggest hub Frankfurt, were stranded on Tuesday as ground staff and other public sector workers staged walkouts across the country to increase the pressure in a pay dispute. Lufthansa said on Monday it was cancelling more than 800 of its planned 1,600 flights on Tuesday and Frankfurt airport operator Fraport has warned of disruption. As well as Frankfurt, airports in Munich, Cologne and Bremen were hit. The industrial action also affected nurseries, rubbish collection services and swimming pools in several German states. "We want to send a clear signal to employers with these massive strikes," Frank Bsirske, head of Verdi, Germany's biggest labour union for service sector employees, said. "We expect an offer to be made for the third round of talks that is worthy of discussion so we can reach a good solution." He said the union would escalate the dispute if employers did not present an offer next week. The third round of talks start on April 15. Verdi has called for a 6 percent pay rise for its 2.3 million public sector employees at the federal and local level. Germany's federal government and municipalities have rejected that, saying such an increase would force them to outsource jobs. The strikes, which started at 5 a.m. (0300 GMT) were due to run until 6 p.m. (1600 GMT) on Tuesday. Europe's biggest economy is in robust shape, with record tax revenues and a budget surplus. Rising employment, inflation-busting pay hikes and low borrowing costs are fuelling a consumer-led upswing. In the industrial sector, 3.9 million workers agreed on a pay and flexible working hours deal in February that amounted to a roughly 4 percent rise per year for 2018 and 2019. Inflation edged up to 1.5 percent in March. The European Central Bank is keeping a close eye on the German wage negotiations for any sign that wage growth is picking up, potentially lifting inflation and allowing the ECB to start winding down its massive stimulus programme. Neighbouring France has also faced industrial action in the last few weeks in protests against President Emmanuel Macron's planned reforms.

Hundreds of flights cancelled in Germany as airports hit by public sector strikes

European air travellers faced mass disruption on Tuesday with around half of all flights at risk of delays following a technical problem at Eurocontrol, the agency in charge of the continent`s skies.

Several of the EU`s biggest airports, including Amsterdam`s Schiphol, warned of problems and advised passengers to check on their flights because of the computer breakdown.

"Today 29,500 flights were expected in the European network. Approximately half of those could have some delay as a result of the system outage," said a statement from Eurocontrol.

The Brussels-based agency, which coordinates European air traffic control operators, said the cause "has been identified and action is underway to return to normal operations" but that that would not happen until "late this evening".

The breakdown comes a day after the Easter holidays when many travellers are on the move around Europe, and as commuters across France faced disruption from a massive rail strike in protest at President Emmanuel Macron`s reforms.

"We have never had anything like this before," a Eurocontrol spokesman told AFP.

Brussels airport said departures were limited to 10 flights an hour. The Belgian airport manages 650 flights a day, according to its website.

Several airports across the continent warned of problems, with Schiphol saying that the "system failure" at Eurocontrol could have "possible consequences" for departures.

Helsinki, Prague and Copenhagen airports also said traffic was facing delays.

Eurocontrol said that there had been a "failure of the Enhanced Tactical Flow Management System", which tracks and manages traffic demand across the continent.

"Contingency procedures are being put in place which will have the effect of reducing the capacity of the European network by approximately 10 percent," the agency said in an initial statement.

It added that flight plans filed before 1026 GMT were "lost" and asked airlines to refile them.

It added that air traffic control had not been directly affected and "there are no safety implications arising from this incident".

Several of the EU`s biggest airports, including Amsterdam`s Schiphol, warned of problems and advised passengers to check on their flights because of the computer breakdown

European air travellers faced mass disruption on Tuesday with around half of all flights at risk of delays following a technical problem at Eurocontrol, the agency in charge of the continent`s skies. Several of the EU`s biggest airports, including Amsterdam`s Schiphol, warned of problems and advised passengers to check on their flights because of the computer breakdown. "Today 29,500 flights were expected in the European network. Approximately half of those could have some delay as a result of the system outage," said a statement from Eurocontrol. The Brussels-based agency, which coordinates European air traffic control operators, said the cause "has been identified and action is underway to return to normal operations" but that that would not happen until "late this evening". The breakdown comes a day after the Easter holidays when many travellers are on the move around Europe, and as commuters across France faced disruption from a massive rail strike in protest at President Emmanuel Macron`s reforms. "We have never had anything like this before," a Eurocontrol spokesman told AFP. Brussels airport said departures were limited to 10 flights an hour. The Belgian airport manages 650 flights a day, according to its website. Several airports across the continent warned of problems, with Schiphol saying that the "system failure" at Eurocontrol could have "possible consequences" for departures. Helsinki, Prague and Copenhagen airports also said traffic was facing delays. Eurocontrol said that there had been a "failure of the Enhanced Tactical Flow Management System", which tracks and manages traffic demand across the continent. "Contingency procedures are being put in place which will have the effect of reducing the capacity of the European network by approximately 10 percent," the agency said in an initial statement. It added that flight plans filed before 1026 GMT were "lost" and asked airlines to refile them. It added that air traffic control had not been directly affected and "there are no safety implications arising from this incident".

Half of European flights face delays after computer failure

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