Data suggests more than 5,000 planes with zero passengers on board have arrived at or left UK airports since 2019.&nbsp;

Since 2019, more than 35,000 commercial flights have operated with less than 10% of seats occupied and nearly no passengers, according to a study of data from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). There are now roughly 40,000 "ghost flights" in all.&nbsp;

For instance, 62 empty planes left Luton airport for Poland in one quarter, and 663 practically empty flights to and from the US were observed at Heathrow over the same period. In both quarters, the Covid-19 epidemic was present.

Climate advocates have focused on air travel because it produces more carbon emissions per hour than any other consumer activity and is dominated by a small group of frequent passengers. They referred to the phantom flight disclosures as "shocking" and asserted that both airport development plans and the necessity for a levy on jet fuel should be raised. Ghost flights are referred to as "environmentally damaging" by the UK government.&nbsp;

Ghost flights' motivations remain a mystery. Only airlines are aware of the causes, but they don't release information to support the practice. The "use-it-or-lose-it" airport slot rules may still be followed, even if they were halted at the height of the pandemic. Airlines also list Covid repatriation flights or aircraft repositioning as additional justifications. However, these cannot be confirmed, and activists said more transparency was needed.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-russian-call-for-mobilisation-sparks-mass-exodus-520181">&nbsp;In pics: Russian call for mobilisation sparks mass exodus</a>

Since earlier data only included international departures, the new data provide the most complete picture yet of the number of UK ghost flights. It now includes flights within the UK as well as arrivals from outside. Following a series of FOI requests by the Guardian, the CAA will now publish this data on a quarterly basis.&nbsp;

Since 2019, the data indicates 130 completely empty flights every month on average. Before, during, and after the travel limitations imposed by the pandemic, the number of empty flights stayed at a comparable level, with the second-highest level occurring in the second quarter of 2022. This indicates that the airlines' decision to fly empty planes was not influenced by Covid's effects on aviation.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of 2020, when the Covid epidemic started, there have been 1,200 almost empty ghost flights on average each month. About 80 per cent&nbsp;of these were to or from other countries.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Data suggests more than 5,000 planes with zero passengers on board have arrived at or left UK airports since 2019. Since 2019, more than 35,000 commercial flights have operated with less than 10% of seats occupied and nearly no passengers, according to a study of data from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Data suggests more than 5,000 planes with zero passengers on board have arrived at or left UK airports since 2019. Since 2019, more than 35,000 commercial flights have operated with less than 10% of seats occupied and nearly no passengers, according to a study of data from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). There are now roughly 40,000 "ghost flights" in all. For instance, 62 empty planes left Luton airport for Poland in one quarter, and 663 practically empty flights to and from the US were observed at Heathrow over the same period. In both quarters, the Covid-19 epidemic was present. Climate advocates have focused on air travel because it produces more carbon emissions per hour than any other consumer activity and is dominated by a small group of frequent passengers. They referred to the phantom flight disclosures as "shocking" and asserted that both airport development plans and the necessity for a levy on jet fuel should be raised. Ghost flights are referred to as "environmentally damaging" by the UK government. Ghost flights' motivations remain a mystery. Only airlines are aware of the causes, but they don't release information to support the practice. The "use-it-or-lose-it" airport slot rules may still be followed, even if they were halted at the height of the pandemic. Airlines also list Covid repatriation flights or aircraft repositioning as additional justifications. However, these cannot be confirmed, and activists said more transparency was needed. Also Read: In pics: Russian call for mobilisation sparks mass exodus Since earlier data only included international departures, the new data provide the most complete picture yet of the number of UK ghost flights. It now includes flights within the UK as well as arrivals from outside. Following a series of FOI requests by the Guardian, the CAA will now publish this data on a quarterly basis. Since 2019, the data indicates 130 completely empty flights every month on average. Before, during, and after the travel limitations imposed by the pandemic, the number of empty flights stayed at a comparable level, with the second-highest level occurring in the second quarter of 2022. This indicates that the airlines' decision to fly empty planes was not influenced by Covid's effects on aviation. Since the beginning of 2020, when the Covid epidemic started, there have been 1,200 almost empty ghost flights on average each month. About 80 per cent of these were to or from other countries. (with inputs from agencies)

More than 5,000 ‘ghost flights’ flew to or from the UK since 2019: Report

After the global aviation sector gave the green light for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, countries will have to stake out their positions at a United Nations meeting this week.

WION Climate Tracker: Nations to weigh aviation CO2 target at UN meet

Electrification is the buzzword in the transportation space, including the aircraft industry. Like electric cars, electric planes rely on battery-generated electricity for power. But unlike cars and two-wheelers, electric aircraft face some unique challenges. Who are the leaders in electric aviation, and are any e-planes ready for take-off?

Electric planes: The future of emission-free aviation | Tech It Out

India’s aviation sector is one of the world’s fastest-growing. But how it came to be so? Here's how the Indian aviation industry has evolved since independence.

India@75: Evolution of aviation industry since Independence

India's airlines have seen numerous instances of engine snags and emergency landings. Some flights even had to land in Pakistan. Why is this happening? What does it mean for you? Listen in to Palki Sharma.

Gravitas Plus: Technical snags and emergency landings hit India's aviation sector

The global aviation industry is stumbling. Thousands of flights worldwide have been either canceled or delayed. At leading airports, passengers are losing their bags. What caused this chaos? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Planning a holiday now? Here is why you should reconsider

Akasa Air, a brand of SNV Aviation Private Limited, is an Indian low-cost airline headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is backed by billionaire investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. The airline plans to start flights in July of 2022, after getting its first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. It was founded in December 2021. Akasa air's vision is that "the Sky embraces everyone, and so air travel should be inclusive and affordable for all." Rakesh Jhunjhunwala is famous for&nbsp;his successful stock investments. He has partnered with IndiGo's Aditya Ghosh and Vinay Dube to launch the airline.&nbsp;Akasa Air plans to fly 18 aircraft by the end of March 2023 across domestic routes in the country. The airline plans to operate approximately 70 planes in the next four years and has placed an order of&nbsp;72 Boeing 737 Max aircraft. The deal was signed at the 2022 Dubai Air Show. It has&nbsp;recently received its code from the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)&nbsp;and will be called 'QP'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-set-to-make-one-of-the-largest-aircraft-deals-in-the-history-490213">Tata-owned Air India set to make one of the largest aircraft deals in history</a>

<h2>Akasa Air Boeing 737 Max landed in Delhi</h2>

Akasa air has finally arrived, with its first plane, Boeing 737 Max landing in Delhi.&nbsp;The aircraft touched down at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on 21st June 2022.&nbsp;It flew all the way from Seattle in the United States. It was only last week that the airline took delivery of its first 737 Max aircraft from Boeing in Seattle.&nbsp;People really liked the look of the aircraft and shared their excitement to travel in it on social media. Vinay Dube,&nbsp;Founder,&nbsp;Akasa Air,&nbsp; said, “The arrival of our first aircraft is a very happy moment for all of us and marks an important milestone, bringing us closer to our vision of building India’s greenest, most dependable, and most affordable airline".

<h2>What routes will Akasa Air&nbsp;run on?</h2>

While no announcement has been made in this regards, it is expected that&nbsp;Akasa air will serve the major domestic routes with a very&nbsp;low cost to attract the potential flyers. The company recently announced plans to fly 18 aircraft by the end of March 2023 across domestic routes in India, focusing on metro to tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Everyone is waiting for the official announcement from the airlines. It may be possible that once the airline starts operations and runs smoothly, it may extended it services internationally as well.

Watch |&nbsp;Report: Air India considers buying 300 planes

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<h2>Will Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s Akasa Air bring revolution in Indian Aviation Industry?</h2>

Due to the Covid pandemic, the aviation sector is facing a huge downfall, leaving many people in the industry unemployed. However, the launch of Akasa air especially due to its ultra low cost, may result in a boom for the industry. Many people wish to travel by air but can't because of the high ticket cost, but if the price lowers, the sale of tickets will increase and help the aviation sector to grow. It will also help provide employment to more people. If the tickets become low cost, people would want to travel more frequently. All this can bring a revolution in the aviation sector.

<h2>Will Akasa Air work on the&nbsp;Wizz Air and Ryan Air Model in India?</h2>

Ryan Air and Wizz Air are both Europe-based airlines that also provide people with low cost travels. Due to this, they are proving to be a boom for the aviation sector there, and are getting a lot of customers. However there is a neck-to-neck competition between both of them, on which one is better. Akasa air also works on a similar model. However in India, Akasa would be the first ultra low cost airline, and everyone wants to see what it serves.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-air-transport-association-says-aviation-industrys-return-to-profit-is-within-reach-in-2023-489991">International Air Transport Association says aviation industry's return to profit is 'within reach' in 2023</a>

<h2>What strategy will be taken by existing airlines in India after Akasa Air launch?</h2>

With the launch of the ultra low-cost&nbsp;airline, Akasa air, the existing airlines like Indigo, Vistara, Spice Jet, etc. are expected to face further pressure. However, in response to the launch of low cost airline, they can also start to lower their ticket prices and improve their services. The tough competition would also force the other airlines to perform better than they were doing before, which may also aid in the growth of the aviation sector after the pandemic damages. Speaking at the post-earnings conference call on July 27, IndiGo’s CFO Jiten Chopra said: “The strength of our balance sheet is our biggest defence in the fight against Covid19 and we will continue to enhance this strength by focusing on cost reduction, liquidity enhancement and capacity addition”.&nbsp;CAPA said that it expects Indian airlines to lose a consolidated $4.1 billion in FY2022, similar to that in FY2021.

Everyone is excited to travel in the ultra low cost airline, and to see will it prove to be a boom for the aviation sector. Rakesh Jhunjhunwala is also known for his successful investments and hence everyone is looking forward to his airlines. Also his partners,&nbsp;IndiGo's Aditya Ghosh and Vinay Dube would help him strengthen the business as they already have a lot of knowledge about this industry.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

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Akasa Air, a brand of SNV Aviation Private Limited, is an Indian low-cost airline headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is backed by billionaire investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala.

Akasa Air, a brand of SNV Aviation Private Limited, is an Indian low-cost airline headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is backed by billionaire investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. The airline plans to start flights in July of 2022, after getting its first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. It was founded in December 2021. Akasa air's vision is that "the Sky embraces everyone, and so air travel should be inclusive and affordable for all." Rakesh Jhunjhunwala is famous for his successful stock investments. He has partnered with IndiGo's Aditya Ghosh and Vinay Dube to launch the airline. Akasa Air plans to fly 18 aircraft by the end of March 2023 across domestic routes in the country. The airline plans to operate approximately 70 planes in the next four years and has placed an order of 72 Boeing 737 Max aircraft. The deal was signed at the 2022 Dubai Air Show. It has recently received its code from the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and will be called 'QP'. Also read | Tata-owned Air India set to make one of the largest aircraft deals in history Akasa Air Boeing 737 Max landed in Delhi Akasa air has finally arrived, with its first plane, Boeing 737 Max landing in Delhi. The aircraft touched down at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on 21st June 2022. It flew all the way from Seattle in the United States. It was only last week that the airline took delivery of its first 737 Max aircraft from Boeing in Seattle. People really liked the look of the aircraft and shared their excitement to travel in it on social media. Vinay Dube, Founder, Akasa Air, said, “The arrival of our first aircraft is a very happy moment for all of us and marks an important milestone, bringing us closer to our vision of building India’s greenest, most dependable, and most affordable airline". What routes will Akasa Air run on? While no announcement has been made in this regards, it is expected that Akasa air will serve the major domestic routes with a very low cost to attract the potential flyers. The company recently announced plans to fly 18 aircraft by the end of March 2023 across domestic routes in India, focusing on metro to tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Everyone is waiting for the official announcement from the airlines. It may be possible that once the airline starts operations and runs smoothly, it may extended it services internationally as well. Watch | Report: Air India considers buying 300 planes Will Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s Akasa Air bring revolution in Indian Aviation Industry? Due to the Covid pandemic, the aviation sector is facing a huge downfall, leaving many people in the industry unemployed. However, the launch of Akasa air especially due to its ultra low cost, may result in a boom for the industry. Many people wish to travel by air but can't because of the high ticket cost, but if the price lowers, the sale of tickets will increase and help the aviation sector to grow. It will also help provide employment to more people. If the tickets become low cost, people would want to travel more frequently. All this can bring a revolution in the aviation sector. Will Akasa Air work on the Wizz Air and Ryan Air Model in India? Ryan Air and Wizz Air are both Europe-based airlines that also provide people with low cost travels. Due to this, they are proving to be a boom for the aviation sector there, and are getting a lot of customers. However there is a neck-to-neck competition between both of them, on which one is better. Akasa air also works on a similar model. However in India, Akasa would be the first ultra low cost airline, and everyone wants to see what it serves. Also read | International Air Transport Association says aviation industry's return to profit is 'within reach' in 2023 What strategy will be taken by existing airlines in India after Akasa Air launch? With the launch of the ultra low-cost airline, Akasa air, the existing airlines like Indigo, Vistara, Spice Jet, etc. are expected to face further pressure. However, in response to the launch of low cost airline, they can also start to lower their ticket prices and improve their services. The tough competition would also force the other airlines to perform better than they were doing before, which may also aid in the growth of the aviation sector after the pandemic damages. Speaking at the post-earnings conference call on July 27, IndiGo’s CFO Jiten Chopra said: “The strength of our balance sheet is our biggest defence in the fight against Covid19 and we will continue to enhance this strength by focusing on cost reduction, liquidity enhancement and capacity addition”. CAPA said that it expects Indian airlines to lose a consolidated $4.1 billion in FY2022, similar to that in FY2021. Everyone is excited to travel in the ultra low cost airline, and to see will it prove to be a boom for the aviation sector. Rakesh Jhunjhunwala is also known for his successful investments and hence everyone is looking forward to his airlines. Also his partners, IndiGo's Aditya Ghosh and Vinay Dube would help him strengthen the business as they already have a lot of knowledge about this industry. 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.

Akasa Air: Why is everyone waiting for Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s airlines?

Tata-owned Air India is considering ordering nearly 300 narrowbody jets, which may potentially become one of the most significant orders in the history of commercial aviation, as the airline plans to expand its fleet under new ownership, reported Bloomberg.

Bloomberg quoted an anonymous source who claimed that Air India might order Airbus SE's A320neo family jets, Boeing Co.'s 737 Max models, or a mix of both. Even though discounts are typical during such large purchases, a deal for 300 737 Max-10 jets could be approximately worth $40.5 billion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-decides-to-procure-airbus-a350-aircraft-first-planes-delivery-likely-by-march-2023-488698">Air India decides to procure Airbus A350 aircraft; first plane's delivery likely by March 2023</a>

Since Airbus commonly dominates the skies in India, Boeing winning a narrowbody order will be a massive triumph for the manufacturer. In the world's fastest-growing aviation market before the pandemic, airlines such as IndiGo, operated by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd is the world's largest customers for Airbus best-selling narrowbodies, ordering more than 700, along with others including Vistara, Go Airlines India Ltd. and AirAsia India Ltd. who fly planes from the same European manufacturer.&nbsp;

Three hundred planes will&nbsp;take several years or even decades to produce and deliver. Airbus builds close to 50 aircraft in a month and plans to increase production to 65 per month by 2023 and then to 75 in a month by 2025.

Although Air India and Boeing representatives have declined to comment on the matter, a representative from Airbus told Bloomberg that their company is always in contact with existing and potential customers, but their discussions remain confidential.

Watch |&nbsp;CCI okays Tata-Air Asia acquisition proposal

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Bloomberg quoted Satyendra Pandey, managing partner of aviation advisory firm AT-TV claiming, "This order presumably involves new methods of financing to play out in the right manner, including factoring in macroeconomic trends, notably the fluctuating rupee and rising inflation."

"Some airlines have placed voluminous orders only to find that they are unable to line up financing at favorable terms. While it is not an outcome that one envisions and certainly not with a group such as the Tatas, nevertheless, it has to be planned for," added Pandey.

Bloomberg News previously reported that Air India's owner Tata Group is in close talks with Airbus for an order of the A350 long-range jets that have the capacity of flying as far as the US West Coast from New Delhi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-air-transport-association-says-aviation-industrys-return-to-profit-is-within-reach-in-2023-489991">International Air Transport Association says aviation industry's return to profit is 'within reach' in 2023</a>

Although Air India still holds gainful landing spots in the country, the airline faces huge competition from international players providing nonstop services to India and even airlines that fly via hubs in the Middle Eastern countries.&nbsp;

The purchase of Air India by Tata was one of the most high-profile privatization under the Modi government earlier this year. Tata is expected to consolidate its aviation businesses which justifies such a large order for new planes, allowing it to cut costs and compete better with rivals offering cheap fares.

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Tata-owned Air India is considering ordering nearly 300 narrowbody jets, which may potentially become one of the most significant orders in the history of commercial aviation, as the airline plans to expand its fleet under new ownership, reported Bloomberg.

Tata-owned Air India is considering ordering nearly 300 narrowbody jets, which may potentially become one of the most significant orders in the history of commercial aviation, as the airline plans to expand its fleet under new ownership, reported Bloomberg. Bloomberg quoted an anonymous source who claimed that Air India might order Airbus SE's A320neo family jets, Boeing Co.'s 737 Max models, or a mix of both. Even though discounts are typical during such large purchases, a deal for 300 737 Max-10 jets could be approximately worth $40.5 billion. Also read | Air India decides to procure Airbus A350 aircraft; first plane's delivery likely by March 2023 Since Airbus commonly dominates the skies in India, Boeing winning a narrowbody order will be a massive triumph for the manufacturer. In the world's fastest-growing aviation market before the pandemic, airlines such as IndiGo, operated by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd is the world's largest customers for Airbus best-selling narrowbodies, ordering more than 700, along with others including Vistara, Go Airlines India Ltd. and AirAsia India Ltd. who fly planes from the same European manufacturer. Three hundred planes will take several years or even decades to produce and deliver. Airbus builds close to 50 aircraft in a month and plans to increase production to 65 per month by 2023 and then to 75 in a month by 2025. Although Air India and Boeing representatives have declined to comment on the matter, a representative from Airbus told Bloomberg that their company is always in contact with existing and potential customers, but their discussions remain confidential. Watch | CCI okays Tata-Air Asia acquisition proposal Bloomberg quoted Satyendra Pandey, managing partner of aviation advisory firm AT-TV claiming, "This order presumably involves new methods of financing to play out in the right manner, including factoring in macroeconomic trends, notably the fluctuating rupee and rising inflation." "Some airlines have placed voluminous orders only to find that they are unable to line up financing at favorable terms. While it is not an outcome that one envisions and certainly not with a group such as the Tatas, nevertheless, it has to be planned for," added Pandey. Bloomberg News previously reported that Air India's owner Tata Group is in close talks with Airbus for an order of the A350 long-range jets that have the capacity of flying as far as the US West Coast from New Delhi. Also read | International Air Transport Association says aviation industry's return to profit is 'within reach' in 2023 Although Air India still holds gainful landing spots in the country, the airline faces huge competition from international players providing nonstop services to India and even airlines that fly via hubs in the Middle Eastern countries. The purchase of Air India by Tata was one of the most high-profile privatization under the Modi government earlier this year. Tata is expected to consolidate its aviation businesses which justifies such a large order for new planes, allowing it to cut costs and compete better with rivals offering cheap fares. 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.

Tata-owned Air India set to make one of the largest aircraft deals in history

As airport staff dealt with a technical snag with the baggage system, an “enormous luggage carpet” was spotted outside a terminal at Heathrow, Britain's busiest airport. Several people witnessed the chaos while exiting&nbsp;Terminal 2 as they struggled to get hold of thier luggage bags.

UK's aviation industry has been struggling to keep up&nbsp;with post-pandemic demand after sacking too many employees during Covid lockdowns.

Footage showed&nbsp;a "crazy mass of suitcases filling the pavement like an enormous luggage carpet", reports Sky News.

Staff were trying to arrange bags around poles with letters on them but it looked like they had their work cut out for them.

A passenger who was present at the same terminal said, “Passengers are being told they may not get their luggage for two days. She further said, "One passenger was overheard saying 'but I'm climbing Kilimanjaro tomorrow I need all my stuff."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/british-airways-plane-encounters-strong-winds-while-landing-watch-what-happened-next-449767">British Airways plane encounters strong winds while landing. Watch what happened next</a>

A Heathrow representative said&nbsp;that there was a technical issue with the terminal’s baggage system which was fixed later. The travellers were able to check-in&nbsp;as usual but some of them arrived without their bags.

Watch |&nbsp;Plane almost toppled while landing due to high winds at London airport

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"We are working closely with airlines to reunite passengers with their luggage as soon as possible. &nbsp;We're sorry there has been disruption to passenger journeys,” the representative was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15000-ghost-flights-have-left-uk-since-pandemic-began-heathrow-tops-the-list-455783">15,000 ‘ghost flights’ have left UK since pandemic began, Heathrow tops the list</a>

It comes amid weeks of travel disruptions, as airports in UK and Europe are failing to cope with the peak travel season. Staffing shortages over the last month&nbsp;have also resulted&nbsp;in hundreds of cancellations.&nbsp;

However, the chief executive of Heathrow’s John Holland in conversation with Sky news said that the passengers faced some minor delays while travelling. He defended against the charges saying the sector was unable to cope with the resurgence of travellers' demand after two years of Covid lockdowns.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

As airport staff dealt with a technical snag with the baggage system, an “enormous luggage carpet” was spotted outside a terminal at Heathrow, Britain's busiest airport.

As airport staff dealt with a technical snag with the baggage system, an “enormous luggage carpet” was spotted outside a terminal at Heathrow, Britain's busiest airport. Several people witnessed the chaos while exiting Terminal 2 as they struggled to get hold of thier luggage bags. UK's aviation industry has been struggling to keep up with post-pandemic demand after sacking too many employees during Covid lockdowns. Footage showed a "crazy mass of suitcases filling the pavement like an enormous luggage carpet", reports Sky News. Staff were trying to arrange bags around poles with letters on them but it looked like they had their work cut out for them. A passenger who was present at the same terminal said, “Passengers are being told they may not get their luggage for two days. She further said, "One passenger was overheard saying 'but I'm climbing Kilimanjaro tomorrow I need all my stuff." Also read | British Airways plane encounters strong winds while landing. Watch what happened next A Heathrow representative said that there was a technical issue with the terminal’s baggage system which was fixed later. The travellers were able to check-in as usual but some of them arrived without their bags. Watch | Plane almost toppled while landing due to high winds at London airport "We are working closely with airlines to reunite passengers with their luggage as soon as possible. We're sorry there has been disruption to passenger journeys,” the representative was quoted as saying. Also read | 15,000 ‘ghost flights’ have left UK since pandemic began, Heathrow tops the list It comes amid weeks of travel disruptions, as airports in UK and Europe are failing to cope with the peak travel season. Staffing shortages over the last month have also resulted in hundreds of cancellations. However, the chief executive of Heathrow’s John Holland in conversation with Sky news said that the passengers faced some minor delays while travelling. He defended against the charges saying the sector was unable to cope with the resurgence of travellers' demand after two years of Covid lockdowns. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of luggage bags stranded outside UK’s busiest airport due to malfunction

Airlines in Europe have been hit by a string of problems amid a challenging operating environment. European airline Easy jet cancelled 5% of its flights.

Challenging operating environment: European airline Easy jet cancelled 5% of its flights

Widespread flight chaos has been witnessed last week at airports across Europe, management struggled to cope with a post-pandemic rebound in demand, but British airports have been particularly hit by major disruption over the past week, which requires urgent intervention.

Schools were on a half-term break and the country also had a long public holiday weekend to mark Queen Elizabeth's 70 years on the throne.

Shapps, who said earlier this week airlines should stop selling tickets for flights they could not staff, said the industry had to sort out the problem.

"The industry itself needs to solve it," he told BBC TV. "The government doesn't run airports, it doesn't run the airlines. The industry needs to do that."

Airlines had hoped for a bumper summer for passengers after two years of COVID-19 travel restrictions.

But they have struggled to recruit staff after the turmoil of the pandemic, and complain it is taking longer to recruit new employees and vet them for security clearance.

Shapps said staff cuts during the pandemic had gone too deep.

"We'll work with the industry very hard ... to make sure we don't see a repeat of those scenes," he said.

A change in the law was making it easier to deal with the administration needed for security clearance, he said, adding he did not envisage a need for the army to be called in to help speed up the security checks.&nbsp;

[With inputs from agencies]

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Widespread flight chaos has been witnessed last week at airports across Europe, management struggled to cope with a post-pandemic rebound in demand, but British airports have been particularly hit by major disruption over the past week, which requires urgent intervention.

Widespread flight chaos has been witnessed last week at airports across Europe, management struggled to cope with a post-pandemic rebound in demand, but British airports have been particularly hit by major disruption over the past week, which requires urgent intervention. Schools were on a half-term break and the country also had a long public holiday weekend to mark Queen Elizabeth's 70 years on the throne. Shapps, who said earlier this week airlines should stop selling tickets for flights they could not staff, said the industry had to sort out the problem. "The industry itself needs to solve it," he told BBC TV. "The government doesn't run airports, it doesn't run the airlines. The industry needs to do that." Airlines had hoped for a bumper summer for passengers after two years of COVID-19 travel restrictions. But they have struggled to recruit staff after the turmoil of the pandemic, and complain it is taking longer to recruit new employees and vet them for security clearance. Shapps said staff cuts during the pandemic had gone too deep. "We'll work with the industry very hard ... to make sure we don't see a repeat of those scenes," he said. A change in the law was making it easier to deal with the administration needed for security clearance, he said, adding he did not envisage a need for the army to be called in to help speed up the security checks. [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.

Post-pandemic rebound in demand leads to aviation chaos in Europe

In a unique decision of sorts in the UK aviation industry, cabin crew of Virgin Atlantic will be allowed to display body art or tattoos, media reports said.&nbsp;Virgin Atlantic has become the first UK airline and leading carrier to do so. The change in the policy was announced by the airline on Twitter. This comes one month after the launch of a branding campaign “championing individuality”. Till now, several airlines have banned visible tattoos. Most carriers only hire staff, who can conceal the ink job under uniform. &nbsp;

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Happy International Flight Attendants Day ❤️ 
 
Today we’re championing the dazzling collection of individuals who are our wonderful cabin crew. We’ve always encouraged our people to be themselves, so from today, they can now show their tattoos with pride. <a href="https://t.co/rRU3OrzKQb">pic.twitter.com/rRU3OrzKQb</a>
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Virgin Atlantic’s chief people officer Estelle Hollingsworth said restrictions were being relaxed “in line with our focus on inclusion and championing individuality. At Virgin Atlantic, we want everyone to be themselves and know that they belong. Many people use tattoos to express their unique identities and our customer-facing and uniformed colleagues should not be excluded from doing so if they choose.” &nbsp;

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For flight attendants, facial and neck tattoos will still remain banned. The tattoos, who are deemed culturally inappropriate or refer to violence, nudity, drugs or alcohol, will also be not allowed. Prison-style love, hate knuckle tattoos or the ones with swearing are a strict no go. &nbsp;

The crew, who will benefit from this decision, are the ones with full-arm tattoos and others who conceal smaller tattoos with makeup. The tattoos of airplanes are also popular among the crew, the airline added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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In a unique decision of sorts in the UK aviation industry, cabin crew of Virgin Atlantic will be allowed to display body art or tattoos, media reports said. Virgin Atlantic has become the first UK airline and leading carrier to do so.

In a unique decision of sorts in the UK aviation industry, cabin crew of Virgin Atlantic will be allowed to display body art or tattoos, media reports said. Virgin Atlantic has become the first UK airline and leading carrier to do so. The change in the policy was announced by the airline on Twitter. This comes one month after the launch of a branding campaign “championing individuality”. Till now, several airlines have banned visible tattoos. Most carriers only hire staff, who can conceal the ink job under uniform. Happy International Flight Attendants Day ❤️ Today we’re championing the dazzling collection of individuals who are our wonderful cabin crew. We’ve always encouraged our people to be themselves, so from today, they can now show their tattoos with pride. pic.twitter.com/rRU3OrzKQb — virginatlantic (@VirginAtlantic) May 31, 2022 × Virgin Atlantic’s chief people officer Estelle Hollingsworth said restrictions were being relaxed “in line with our focus on inclusion and championing individuality. At Virgin Atlantic, we want everyone to be themselves and know that they belong. Many people use tattoos to express their unique identities and our customer-facing and uniformed colleagues should not be excluded from doing so if they choose.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE For flight attendants, facial and neck tattoos will still remain banned. The tattoos, who are deemed culturally inappropriate or refer to violence, nudity, drugs or alcohol, will also be not allowed. Prison-style love, hate knuckle tattoos or the ones with swearing are a strict no go. The crew, who will benefit from this decision, are the ones with full-arm tattoos and others who conceal smaller tattoos with makeup. The tattoos of airplanes are also popular among the crew, the airline added. (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. ×

Now, Virgin Atlantic’s cabin crew to get to show off tattoos

Virgin Atlantic becomes the first UK airline and the world’s leading career to allow its cabin crew to exhibit tattoos. For the time being, tattoos on the face and neck are prohibited for flight staff though it might get modify in future, reported by The Guardian.

Tattoos that represent cursing, culturally unacceptable, refers nudity, any sort of drugs and alcoholism are prohibited.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rise-in-prices-globally-airline-fares-jumped-by-107-in-march-report-470778">Rise in prices globally, airline fares jumped by 10.7% in March: Report</a>

The airline will inform its employees of this policy change a month after launching its branding campaign “championing individuality,” and as the aviation sector scrambles to fill vital posts following the pandemic recovery.&nbsp;

Until now, Sir Richard Branson’s airline, like most others has prohibited visible tattoos only hiring people who could hide they’re beneath their uniforms. However, the chief police officer of the airline Estelle Hollingsworth, said that the limits a now being eased keeping focus on inclusion and their branding campaign.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Global airline capacity peaks in 2022

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The officer said, “At Virgin Atlantic, we want everyone to be themselves and know that they belong. Many people use tattoos to express their unique identities and our customer-facing and uniformed colleagues should not be excluded from doing so if they choose.”

This is not the first time the airline has taken a decision in favour of its members, earlier the airline loosened rigorous cabin crew makeup requirements. The female cabin crew until 2019, were required to wear cosmetics when the restrictions were repealed and were given a choice to wear pants if they desired to instead of skirts. This decision was welcomed as a watershed moment by the female attendants.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/emirates-reports-significantly-reduced-loss-of-usd-11-billion-478668">Emirates reports 'significantly reduced' loss of USD 1.1 billion</a>

The embrace of body art is line with what the airline’s campaign is about, which has commercials featuring a varied range of passengers and employees including tongue piercings, which triggered the airport security. When later asked, the airline stated that such piercings are prohibited for the crew.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Virgin Atlantic becomes the first UK airline and the world’s leading career to allow its cabin crew to exhibit tattoos. For the time being, tattoos on the face and neck are prohibited for flight staff though it might get modify in future, reported by The Guardian.

Virgin Atlantic becomes the first UK airline and the world’s leading career to allow its cabin crew to exhibit tattoos. For the time being, tattoos on the face and neck are prohibited for flight staff though it might get modify in future, reported by The Guardian. Tattoos that represent cursing, culturally unacceptable, refers nudity, any sort of drugs and alcoholism are prohibited. Also read | Rise in prices globally, airline fares jumped by 10.7% in March: Report The airline will inform its employees of this policy change a month after launching its branding campaign “championing individuality,” and as the aviation sector scrambles to fill vital posts following the pandemic recovery. Until now, Sir Richard Branson’s airline, like most others has prohibited visible tattoos only hiring people who could hide they’re beneath their uniforms. However, the chief police officer of the airline Estelle Hollingsworth, said that the limits a now being eased keeping focus on inclusion and their branding campaign. Watch | Global airline capacity peaks in 2022 The officer said, “At Virgin Atlantic, we want everyone to be themselves and know that they belong. Many people use tattoos to express their unique identities and our customer-facing and uniformed colleagues should not be excluded from doing so if they choose.” This is not the first time the airline has taken a decision in favour of its members, earlier the airline loosened rigorous cabin crew makeup requirements. The female cabin crew until 2019, were required to wear cosmetics when the restrictions were repealed and were given a choice to wear pants if they desired to instead of skirts. This decision was welcomed as a watershed moment by the female attendants. Also read | Emirates reports 'significantly reduced' loss of USD 1.1 billion The embrace of body art is line with what the airline’s campaign is about, which has commercials featuring a varied range of passengers and employees including tongue piercings, which triggered the airport security. When later asked, the airline stated that such piercings are prohibited for the crew. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's airline allows cabin crew to show their tattoos

In signs of recovery in aviation sector European low-cost airline Ryanair said its bookings looked very strong for the summer and the load factor should gradually rise to 94-95% in June-August.

Ryanair sees over 15 million passengers in May, summer bookings strong

Flying is one of the safest and most convenient modes of commuting however aviation industry leaves a huge carbon footprint. Now, in order to keep a check, aviation industry has set his own climate goals but a new research says global aviation industry has missed 50 but achieved 1.

Aviation industry sets its own climate goals, only 1 out of 50 goals met

A day after it came to light that IndiGo barred a specially-abled child from boarding a flight at the Ranchi airport as he was in "a state of panic", Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Monday that no human being should have to go through this and he himself is investigating the incident.

As the boy was prohibited from boarding the airline's Ranchi-Hyderabad flight on Saturday, his parents, who were with him, also decided to not enter the plane.

The Saturday's incident came to light after other passengers posted about this incident on social media on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-airline-website-hacked-by-passenger-after-losing-baggage-467210">IndiGo website 'hacked' by passenger after losing baggage</a>

Commenting on one such social media post regarding this incident, Scindia on Monday said on Twitter, "There is zero tolerance towards such behaviour. No human being should have to go through this! Investigating the matter by myself, post which appropriate action will be taken."

DGCA chief Arun Kumar had on Sunday told PTI that the regulator has sought a report from IndiGo on this matter.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is probing this incident and it will take appropriate action, he said.

A passenger named Manisha Gupta had detailed this incident on LinkedIn. She said that on Saturday, at the Ranchi airport, an adolescent with special needs, was in great discomfort.

"The exhaustion of the drive to the airport and then the stress of security check has sent him into the throes of hunger, thirst, anxiety and confusion. His parents obviously knew how to handle his meltdown - with patience, cajoling, stern-ness, many hugs," she mentioned.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Severe turbulence hits SpiceJet flight from Mumbai to Durgapur

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By the time the boarding began, the child had been fed and given his medicines, she said.

He seemed ready except for some big displays of general teenage assertiveness, she noted.

"Then we witnessed the full display of brute authority and power. The IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd) staff declared that the child would not be allowed to take the flight because he was a risk to other passengers," she mentioned.

"The Indigo manager also said something on lines of 'behaviours such as this, and that of drunk passengers, deems them unfit to travel'," she said.

The other passengers opposed him resolutely and they demanded that the child and his parents board the flight as soon as possible, she mentioned.

Several challenged the Indigo staff to calibrate his decision with corresponding statements in the rule book, she said.

"They held up their mobile phones with news articles, and Twitter posts on supreme court judgements on how no airline could discriminate against passengers with disabilities. There was a delegation of doctors that was taking the same flight. They offered to provide full support to the child and his parents, if any health episode were to occur mid-air," she noted.

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However, IndiGo staff did not change their decision of barring the child from taking the flight, she said.

When asked about the incident, IndiGo had on Sunday said, "In view of the safety of passengers, a specially-abled child could not board the flight with his family on May 7, as he was in a state of panic."

The ground staff waited for him to calm down till the last minute but to no avail, it said.

The airline made the family comfortable by providing them a hotel stay and they flew the next morning to their destination, it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-spicejet-flight-hits-severe-turbulence-passengers-injured-475559">Watch | SpiceJet flight hits severe turbulence; passengers injured</a>

"We regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers. IndiGo prides itself on being an inclusive organisation, be it for employees or its customers; and over 75,000 specially-abled passengers fly with IndiGo every month," it said.

IndiGo India's largest carrier carried 58.61 lakh passengers within the country in March, a 54.8 per cent share of the domestic market, as per the DGCA data.

A day after it came to light that IndiGo barred a specially-abled child from boarding a flight at the Ranchi airport as he was in "a state of panic", Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Monday that no human being should have to go through this and he himself is investigating the incident.

A day after it came to light that IndiGo barred a specially-abled child from boarding a flight at the Ranchi airport as he was in "a state of panic", Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Monday that no human being should have to go through this and he himself is investigating the incident. As the boy was prohibited from boarding the airline's Ranchi-Hyderabad flight on Saturday, his parents, who were with him, also decided to not enter the plane. The Saturday's incident came to light after other passengers posted about this incident on social media on Sunday. Also read | IndiGo website 'hacked' by passenger after losing baggage Commenting on one such social media post regarding this incident, Scindia on Monday said on Twitter, "There is zero tolerance towards such behaviour. No human being should have to go through this! Investigating the matter by myself, post which appropriate action will be taken." DGCA chief Arun Kumar had on Sunday told PTI that the regulator has sought a report from IndiGo on this matter. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is probing this incident and it will take appropriate action, he said. A passenger named Manisha Gupta had detailed this incident on LinkedIn. She said that on Saturday, at the Ranchi airport, an adolescent with special needs, was in great discomfort. "The exhaustion of the drive to the airport and then the stress of security check has sent him into the throes of hunger, thirst, anxiety and confusion. His parents obviously knew how to handle his meltdown - with patience, cajoling, stern-ness, many hugs," she mentioned. Watch | Gravitas: Severe turbulence hits SpiceJet flight from Mumbai to Durgapur By the time the boarding began, the child had been fed and given his medicines, she said. He seemed ready except for some big displays of general teenage assertiveness, she noted. "Then we witnessed the full display of brute authority and power. The IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd) staff declared that the child would not be allowed to take the flight because he was a risk to other passengers," she mentioned. "The Indigo manager also said something on lines of 'behaviours such as this, and that of drunk passengers, deems them unfit to travel'," she said. The other passengers opposed him resolutely and they demanded that the child and his parents board the flight as soon as possible, she mentioned. Several challenged the Indigo staff to calibrate his decision with corresponding statements in the rule book, she said. "They held up their mobile phones with news articles, and Twitter posts on supreme court judgements on how no airline could discriminate against passengers with disabilities. There was a delegation of doctors that was taking the same flight. They offered to provide full support to the child and his parents, if any health episode were to occur mid-air," she noted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: However, IndiGo staff did not change their decision of barring the child from taking the flight, she said. When asked about the incident, IndiGo had on Sunday said, "In view of the safety of passengers, a specially-abled child could not board the flight with his family on May 7, as he was in a state of panic." The ground staff waited for him to calm down till the last minute but to no avail, it said. The airline made the family comfortable by providing them a hotel stay and they flew the next morning to their destination, it said. Also read | Watch | SpiceJet flight hits severe turbulence; passengers injured "We regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers. IndiGo prides itself on being an inclusive organisation, be it for employees or its customers; and over 75,000 specially-abled passengers fly with IndiGo every month," it said. IndiGo India's largest carrier carried 58.61 lakh passengers within the country in March, a 54.8 per cent share of the domestic market, as per the DGCA data.

IndiGo bars specially-abled child; Scindia says no human being should have to go through this

World’s longest non-stop commercial existing and upcoming flights

Qantas&nbsp;announced on Monday&nbsp;it will&nbsp;launch&nbsp;the world's&nbsp;longest&nbsp;non-stop&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;flight, with passengers set to spend 19 hours in the air travelling from Sydney to London by the end of 2025.

After five years of planning, the airline said it was ordering 12 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft to operate the "Project Sunrise" flights to cities including London and New York.

Non-stop&nbsp;flights will start from Sydney by the end of 2025, it said, with long-haul trips later planned to include Melbourne.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-a-record-of-interfering-in-foreign-politics-says-australias-prime-minister-scott-morrison-475152">China has a record of interfering in foreign politics, says Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison</a>

"New types of aircraft make new things possible," said&nbsp;Qantas&nbsp;chairman Alan Joyce, according to a statement.

"The A350 and Project Sunrise will make any city just one&nbsp;flight&nbsp;away from Australia," he said.

"It's the final frontier and the final fix for the tyranny of distance."

Qantas&nbsp;operated research flights for the long-haul route in 2019, including a trial London-Sydney trek of 17,800 kilometres (11,030 miles), which took 19 hours and 19 minutes.

A trial New York-Sydney&nbsp;flight&nbsp;in the same year covered 16,200 kilometres (10,200 miles) and took a little over 19 hours.

Singapore Airlines currently operates the world's&nbsp;longest&nbsp;non-stop&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;flight&nbsp;from Singapore to New York, covering 16,700 kilometres (10,400 miles) in a little under 19 hours.

Qantas&nbsp;already operates a 14,498-kilometre Perth-London trip that takes 17 hours.

Watch |&nbsp;Australia's Qantas airways: World's longest non-stop flight

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Maximum comfort

"As you'd expect, the cabin is being specially designed for maximum comfort for long-haul flying," Joyce said.

Qantas&nbsp;said the new A350 aircraft would be configured for 238 passengers with first-class suites offering a separate bed, recliner chair and wardrobe.

It promised spacier economy sections and a "wellbeing zone" designed for "movement, stretching and hydration".

Airbus listed the price of the A350-1000 at US$366.5 million (348 million euros) on its 2018 catalogue, the last one it published.

Qantas&nbsp;said it was also ordering 40 A321 XLR and A220 aircraft from Airbus.

In addition, it bought options for another 94 of these planes until the end of 2034.

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The A220 models were listed at between US$81 million and US$91.5 million in 2018. The A321 was unveiled after Airbus stopped publishing catalogue prices.

Qantas&nbsp;said the total cost of the deal was a matter of commercial confidence, though it indicated it had obtained a significant discount on the standard price of the aircraft.

"The A320s and A220s will become the backbone of our domestic fleet for the next 20 years, helping to keep this country moving," Joyce said.

The newer aircraft would reduce emissions by at least 15 per cent if running on fossil fuels, and more if using sustainable aviation fuel, he said.

"We have come through the other side of the pandemic a structurally different company," the airline boss said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-competition-watchdog-sues-uber-for-usd-19-million-fine-474004">Australia: Competition watchdog sues Uber for USD 19 million fine</a>

"Our domestic market share is higher and the demand for direct international flights is even stronger than it was before Covid."

The A350-1000 planes will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 turbofan engines, designed to be 25 per cent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation of aircraft,&nbsp;Qantas&nbsp;said.

Qantas announced on Monday it will launch the world's longest non-stop commercial flight, with passengers set to spend 19 hours in the air travelling from Sydney to London by the end of 2025.

Qantas announced on Monday it will launch the world's longest non-stop commercial flight, with passengers set to spend 19 hours in the air travelling from Sydney to London by the end of 2025. After five years of planning, the airline said it was ordering 12 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft to operate the "Project Sunrise" flights to cities including London and New York. Non-stop flights will start from Sydney by the end of 2025, it said, with long-haul trips later planned to include Melbourne. Also read | China has a record of interfering in foreign politics, says Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison "New types of aircraft make new things possible," said Qantas chairman Alan Joyce, according to a statement. "The A350 and Project Sunrise will make any city just one flight away from Australia," he said. "It's the final frontier and the final fix for the tyranny of distance." Qantas operated research flights for the long-haul route in 2019, including a trial London-Sydney trek of 17,800 kilometres (11,030 miles), which took 19 hours and 19 minutes. A trial New York-Sydney flight in the same year covered 16,200 kilometres (10,200 miles) and took a little over 19 hours. Singapore Airlines currently operates the world's longest non-stop commercial flight from Singapore to New York, covering 16,700 kilometres (10,400 miles) in a little under 19 hours. Qantas already operates a 14,498-kilometre Perth-London trip that takes 17 hours. Watch | Australia's Qantas airways: World's longest non-stop flight Maximum comfort "As you'd expect, the cabin is being specially designed for maximum comfort for long-haul flying," Joyce said. Qantas said the new A350 aircraft would be configured for 238 passengers with first-class suites offering a separate bed, recliner chair and wardrobe. It promised spacier economy sections and a "wellbeing zone" designed for "movement, stretching and hydration". Airbus listed the price of the A350-1000 at US$366.5 million (348 million euros) on its 2018 catalogue, the last one it published. Qantas said it was also ordering 40 A321 XLR and A220 aircraft from Airbus. In addition, it bought options for another 94 of these planes until the end of 2034. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The A220 models were listed at between US$81 million and US$91.5 million in 2018. The A321 was unveiled after Airbus stopped publishing catalogue prices. Qantas said the total cost of the deal was a matter of commercial confidence, though it indicated it had obtained a significant discount on the standard price of the aircraft. "The A320s and A220s will become the backbone of our domestic fleet for the next 20 years, helping to keep this country moving," Joyce said. The newer aircraft would reduce emissions by at least 15 per cent if running on fossil fuels, and more if using sustainable aviation fuel, he said. "We have come through the other side of the pandemic a structurally different company," the airline boss said. Also read | Australia: Competition watchdog sues Uber for USD 19 million fine "Our domestic market share is higher and the demand for direct international flights is even stronger than it was before Covid." The A350-1000 planes will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 turbofan engines, designed to be 25 per cent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation of aircraft, Qantas said.

19 hours in air: Qantas to launch world's longest non-stop commercial flight from Sydney to London

March 2022: China plane crash kills 132 Country says "no clues to explain plane crash" What went wrong? Is Boeing to blame? And how is the Russia-Ukraine war impacting aviation? Watch "Aviation: In a Tailspin"

AVIATION: IN A TAILSPIN | WION WIDEANGLE

First of its kind emissions-free electric aircraft by Pipistrel Velis has been certified for training. Are electric aircraft the future of aviation?

Future of the aviation sector: First of its kind electric aircraft certified for training

First of its kind emissions-free electric aircraft certified for training

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has stopped its lucrative flights to Moscow as insurance rates became prohibitive after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the country's national airline announced Monday.

Both Russia and Ukraine were among the top three tourism-generating markets for Sri Lanka, a nation grappling with its worst economic crisis since independence from Britain in 1948.

Sri Lankan Airlines operated three flights a week to the Russian capital until fighting broke out last month and had reduced the frequency to two.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-major-sri-lankan-newspapers-suspending-print-editions-as-surge-in-economic-crisis-465415">Two major Sri Lankan newspapers suspend print editions as economic crisis surges</a>

The airline said it was compelled to pull the once highly profitable Moscow flights due to the steep operating costs after war broke out and difficulties in repatriating profits from Russia.

The South Asian nation had banked on tourists from the two warring nations to earn much-needed foreign exchange to finance the import of food, fuel and medicines.

The airline said its pullout was due to "operational restrictions that are outside of the airline's control" and promised to refund those with flight bookings.

Out of the 82,300 foreign tourists who visited Sri Lanka in January about 13,500 or 16.4 per cent were Russians, followed by 11,750 Indians and 7,770 Ukrainians.

The collapse of the leisure sector soon after the pandemic broke out in 2020 saw Sri Lanka lose more than four billion dollars in lost tourism revenue.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-significant-achievements-so-far-in-russia-ukraine-talks-kremlin-466309">&nbsp;No ‘significant achievements’ so far in Russia-Ukraine talks: Kremlin</a>

The country's best year for tourism was 2018 when it earned $4.38 billion from tourism and welcomed 2.3 million visitors.

Sri Lanka is currently in the grip of severe shortages of food and fuel as commercial banks have run out of dollars to finance essential imports.

Colombo has said it will seek an IMF bailout as the country's foreign currency reserves had hit $2 billion at the end of February, compared to $7.5 billion two years ago.

Watch |&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar holds important bilateral talks in Sri Lanka

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Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has stopped its lucrative flights to Moscow as insurance rates became prohibitive after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the country's national airline announced Monday.

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has stopped its lucrative flights to Moscow as insurance rates became prohibitive after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the country's national airline announced Monday. Both Russia and Ukraine were among the top three tourism-generating markets for Sri Lanka, a nation grappling with its worst economic crisis since independence from Britain in 1948. Sri Lankan Airlines operated three flights a week to the Russian capital until fighting broke out last month and had reduced the frequency to two. Also read | Two major Sri Lankan newspapers suspend print editions as economic crisis surges The airline said it was compelled to pull the once highly profitable Moscow flights due to the steep operating costs after war broke out and difficulties in repatriating profits from Russia. The South Asian nation had banked on tourists from the two warring nations to earn much-needed foreign exchange to finance the import of food, fuel and medicines. The airline said its pullout was due to "operational restrictions that are outside of the airline's control" and promised to refund those with flight bookings. Out of the 82,300 foreign tourists who visited Sri Lanka in January about 13,500 or 16.4 per cent were Russians, followed by 11,750 Indians and 7,770 Ukrainians. The collapse of the leisure sector soon after the pandemic broke out in 2020 saw Sri Lanka lose more than four billion dollars in lost tourism revenue. Also read | No ‘significant achievements’ so far in Russia-Ukraine talks: Kremlin The country's best year for tourism was 2018 when it earned $4.38 billion from tourism and welcomed 2.3 million visitors. Sri Lanka is currently in the grip of severe shortages of food and fuel as commercial banks have run out of dollars to finance essential imports. Colombo has said it will seek an IMF bailout as the country's foreign currency reserves had hit $2 billion at the end of February, compared to $7.5 billion two years ago. Watch | External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar holds important bilateral talks in Sri Lanka

War forces crisis-hit Sri Lanka to end Moscow flights

Airport operators GMR Airports, Groupe ADP together with Airbus, Axens and Safran signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to conduct joint study on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and their potential in India.

"The objective of the study is to understand and evaluate the demand, the challenges and opportunities of supply, infrastructure and fueling, as well as to prepare a business case for SAF production and use in India for all kind of aviation purposes," said a press release.

What is SAF?

As per the release, the SAF is a clean substitute for fossil jet fuels. Rather than being refined from petroleum, SAF is produced from sustainable resources such as waste oils from a biological origin, agri residues, municipal solid wastes or algae.

SAF produced using the most advanced pathways can provide CO2 emission reduction of up to 85% across the entire SAF lifecycle.&nbsp;

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has the potential to make Indian aviation future-ready. India already has 3rd largest domestic aviation market in the world and it is projected to grow at the rate of 9 per cent per year.

SAF may aid India's efforts to achive the stated goal of reduction in carbon emissions and net-zero target by the year 2070.

Airport operators GMR Airports, Groupe ADP together with Airbus, Axens and Safran signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to conduct joint study on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and their potential in India.

Airport operators GMR Airports, Groupe ADP together with Airbus, Axens and Safran signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to conduct joint study on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and their potential in India. "The objective of the study is to understand and evaluate the demand, the challenges and opportunities of supply, infrastructure and fueling, as well as to prepare a business case for SAF production and use in India for all kind of aviation purposes," said a press release. What is SAF? As per the release, the SAF is a clean substitute for fossil jet fuels. Rather than being refined from petroleum, SAF is produced from sustainable resources such as waste oils from a biological origin, agri residues, municipal solid wastes or algae. SAF produced using the most advanced pathways can provide CO2 emission reduction of up to 85% across the entire SAF lifecycle. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has the potential to make Indian aviation future-ready. India already has 3rd largest domestic aviation market in the world and it is projected to grow at the rate of 9 per cent per year. SAF may aid India's efforts to achive the stated goal of reduction in carbon emissions and net-zero target by the year 2070.

Airport operators join forces to study sustainable fuel in India

Canada&nbsp;has closed its&nbsp;airspace&nbsp;to all&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;carriers&nbsp;in protest at the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;invasion of Ukraine, Ottawa announced Sunday.

But the ban was quickly tested when, according to Canadian officials, a plane operated by&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;airline Aeroflot flew over the country.

Aeroflot flight 111 had departed Miami, Florida, bound for Moscow.

Announcing the measure earlier in the day, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said: "We will hold Russia accountable for its unprovoked attacks against Ukraine."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-russia-shuts-airspace-to-flights-from-bulgaria-poland-and-more-456828">Top 10 world news: Russia shuts airspace to flights from Bulgaria, Poland, and more</a>

The closure, effective immediately, aligned&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;with the vast majority of European countries.

While there had been no direct flights between Canadian and&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;airports, the decision by the world's second-largest country -- Russia is the largest -- promised to seriously complicate flights by Aeroflot to or from the United States, as well as to other countries to the south.

Any flight owned, chartered by or used by&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;interests -- including private flights -- was banned from Canadian skies, transport ministry spokeswoman Valerie Glazer told AFP in an email.

However, the Aeroflot flight "violated the prohibition", according to a tweet by government agency Transport&nbsp;Canada.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/after-canadian-freedom-convoy-us-peoples-convoy-protests-pandemic-restrictions-455836">After Canadian Freedom Convoy, US 'People's Convoy' protests pandemic restrictions</a>

"We are launching a review of the conduct of Aeroflot and the independent air navigation service provider, NAVCAN, leading up to this violation," it said.

"We will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action and other measures to prevent future violations."

A growing list of European countries -- including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands and Sweden -- have closed their&nbsp;airspace&nbsp;to&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;carriers&nbsp;in response to the invasion of Ukraine.

Britain barred Aeroflot flights on Thursday.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: EU shuts airspace to Russian airlines amid invasion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-eu-shuts-airspace-to-russian-airlines-amid-invasion-457282/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

No flights from Russia appeared Sunday to be arriving at major US airports in Washington, Baltimore, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

Delta Airlines on Friday suspended a code-sharing arrangement with Aeroflot.

But the US Transportation Department has yet to announce a decision on banning&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;flights.

Canada has closed its airspace to all Russian carriers in protest at the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ottawa announced Sunday. But the ban was quickly tested when, according to Canadian officials, a plane operated by Russian airline Aeroflot flew over the country.

Canada has closed its airspace to all Russian carriers in protest at the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ottawa announced Sunday. But the ban was quickly tested when, according to Canadian officials, a plane operated by Russian airline Aeroflot flew over the country. Aeroflot flight 111 had departed Miami, Florida, bound for Moscow. Announcing the measure earlier in the day, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said: "We will hold Russia accountable for its unprovoked attacks against Ukraine." Also read | Top 10 world news: Russia shuts airspace to flights from Bulgaria, Poland, and more The closure, effective immediately, aligned Canada with the vast majority of European countries. While there had been no direct flights between Canadian and Russian airports, the decision by the world's second-largest country -- Russia is the largest -- promised to seriously complicate flights by Aeroflot to or from the United States, as well as to other countries to the south. Any flight owned, chartered by or used by Russian interests -- including private flights -- was banned from Canadian skies, transport ministry spokeswoman Valerie Glazer told AFP in an email. However, the Aeroflot flight "violated the prohibition", according to a tweet by government agency Transport Canada. Also read | After Canadian Freedom Convoy, US 'People's Convoy' protests pandemic restrictions "We are launching a review of the conduct of Aeroflot and the independent air navigation service provider, NAVCAN, leading up to this violation," it said. "We will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action and other measures to prevent future violations." A growing list of European countries -- including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands and Sweden -- have closed their airspace to Russian carriers in response to the invasion of Ukraine. Britain barred Aeroflot flights on Thursday. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: EU shuts airspace to Russian airlines amid invasion No flights from Russia appeared Sunday to be arriving at major US airports in Washington, Baltimore, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. Delta Airlines on Friday suspended a code-sharing arrangement with Aeroflot. But the US Transportation Department has yet to announce a decision on banning Russian flights.

Canada closes airspace to all Russian carriers

Does 5G delay flights? The CEOs of Boeing & Airbus claim that 5G frequencies can disrupt a flight's radio altimeters & make landings risky.

Does 5G pose a threat to airline safety?

The year 2021 began with hope for the aviation sector because the lockdowns were ending, but the same cannot be said about its end.

Aviation sector in the year 2021: wait continues for the international holidays

It's deja vu in the aviation market. Omicron virus is spreading and some airlines are cancelling air travel due to this.

Airlines cancel flights due to Omicron virus spread

Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways will divest several support service businesses to a new aviation company owned by Abu Dhabi state holding firm ADQ and to Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) as well.

Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways to divest several businesses to state holding firm ADQ, ADNEC

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has taken the world by storm, with new restrictions dealing a deathly blow to the aviation sector.

Omicron restrictions hit aviation sector as demand wanes

The aviation and telecom industries said Wednesday they were making progress to address air safety concerns about potential interference from the planned Jan. 5 5G wireless deployment.

Aviation and telecom industries make progress to address air safety concerns

The Indian Aviation industry is cautiously optimistic about the long term future of the sector. Industry leaders are confident about the positive long term future of the Aviation industry.

COVID-19: Airlines are cautiously optimistic about long term future of the Indian Aviation industry

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