The United States and China will allow air carriers to double the number of flights to eight per week, according to the US Transportation Department’s statement on Tuesday.

The world’s two biggest economies had stopped flights and then slowly restarted operation due to the coronavirus pandemic, which began in China, but continues to batter the globe, with US being the hardest-hit country in the world.

Doubling allowed

According to the US, the country will allow four Chinese passenger airlines to double flights to eight round trips per week. This comes in after China allowed US carriers to double the number of flights to China.

After coronavirus pandemic spread globally, US carriers stopped flights to China. On January 31, President Donald Trump had barred all all non-US citizens from flying in from China to the US.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-evacuates-100000-as-floods-threaten-heritage-site-321644" hreflang="en">China evacuates 100,000 as floods threaten heritage site</a>

Starting September 4, United Airlines will increase flights to Chine to four per week from San Francisco to Shanghai. The US department added that Delta Air Lines is also eligible to double its fleet going to China.

Delta had earlier announced that it would operate flights from Seattle and Detroit to Shanghai starting July, via Seoul. On August 18, Delta announced that this would begin from August 24.

Bilateral agreement

As part of their bilateral aviation agreement, the US is hoping that China would restore full US flights. The US Transportation Department added that as China allows more flights to come into the country, so will it.

The agreement between the world’s two largest economies allows operation of more than 100 weekly flights.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-unveils-sky-thunder-missile-system-amid-tensions-in-south-china-sea-321543" hreflang="en">China unveils Sky Thunder missile system amid tensions in South China Sea</a>

After China did not agree restore US flights in June, the US had threatened to bar all Chinese passenger flights.

The Trump administration in May announced thatAir China, China Eastern Airlines Corp, China Southern Airlines Co, Hainan Airlines Holding Co, and their subsidiaries will be required to file schedules.

In June, Reuters had reported that Chinese authorities had agreed to making changes in the policies that allow the operation of flights.

One such move was to conduct temperature checks before taking off instead of while the flight was in transit.

The United States and China will allow air carriers to double the number of flights to eight per week, according to the US Transportation Department’s statement on Tuesday.

The United States and China will allow air carriers to double the number of flights to eight per week, according to the US Transportation Department’s statement on Tuesday. The world’s two biggest economies had stopped flights and then slowly restarted operation due to the coronavirus pandemic, which began in China, but continues to batter the globe, with US being the hardest-hit country in the world. Doubling allowed According to the US, the country will allow four Chinese passenger airlines to double flights to eight round trips per week. This comes in after China allowed US carriers to double the number of flights to China. After coronavirus pandemic spread globally, US carriers stopped flights to China. On January 31, President Donald Trump had barred all all non-US citizens from flying in from China to the US. Also read: China evacuates 100,000 as floods threaten heritage site Starting September 4, United Airlines will increase flights to Chine to four per week from San Francisco to Shanghai. The US department added that Delta Air Lines is also eligible to double its fleet going to China. Delta had earlier announced that it would operate flights from Seattle and Detroit to Shanghai starting July, via Seoul. On August 18, Delta announced that this would begin from August 24. Bilateral agreement As part of their bilateral aviation agreement, the US is hoping that China would restore full US flights. The US Transportation Department added that as China allows more flights to come into the country, so will it. The agreement between the world’s two largest economies allows operation of more than 100 weekly flights. Also read: China unveils Sky Thunder missile system amid tensions in South China Sea After China did not agree restore US flights in June, the US had threatened to bar all Chinese passenger flights. The Trump administration in May announced thatAir China, China Eastern Airlines Corp, China Southern Airlines Co, Hainan Airlines Holding Co, and their subsidiaries will be required to file schedules. In June, Reuters had reported that Chinese authorities had agreed to making changes in the policies that allow the operation of flights. One such move was to conduct temperature checks before taking off instead of while the flight was in transit.

China, US to double number of flights: US Transportation Department

The future of top regional budget carrier AirAsia is in "significant doubt" after the collapse in travel demand caused by coronavirus, its auditor warned, sending the airline's share price tumbling nearly 18 percent on Wednesday.

The aviation industry is facing its biggest-ever crisis due to the pandemic, with airlines worldwide going out of business or laying off huge numbers of staff to stay afloat.&nbsp;

AirAsia, led by colourful chief executive Tony Fernandes, pioneered low-cost air travel across Asia in the early 2000s at a time of growing demand from a fast-emerging middle class.&nbsp;

But on Monday the debt-laden Malaysian airline reported a record quarterly loss of 803 million ringgit ($187 million) for the first three months of the year, after being forced to ground its fleet due to the virus.&nbsp;

Auditor Ernst &amp; Young said Tuesday that global travel restrictions had dented AirAsia's financial performance, with liabilities exceeding assets by 1.84 billion ringgit.&nbsp;

It noted the "existence of material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt on... the company's ability to continue as a going concern", in an unqualified audit opinion statement to the Kuala Lumpur stock exchange.

AirAsia, which flies to over 150 destinations, was already facing stiff competition from other low-cost carriers before the outbreak, and had reported a net loss of 283 million ringgit in 2019.&nbsp;

But the auditor also said AirAsia had "seen positive developments on its business operations" with the gradual lifting of travel restrictions in some countries.&nbsp;

- 'Toughest challenge' - 
AirAsia's shares crashed after the end of a morning trading halt and finished down 17.5 percent at 0.71 ringgit.

Even before Monday's dire results, the airline was already reported to have plans to slash hundreds of staff in response to the pandemic.

Fernandes said the coronavirus was "by far the toughest challenge" AirAsia had ever faced.

But he also sought to strike a positive note.&nbsp;

"Every crisis is an obstacle to overcome, and we have restructured the group into a leaner and tighter ship," he said.

Demand had rebounded since operations resumed in late April, while the airline had also applied for bank loans to shore up liquidity and entered talks on new investments, he said.

But there were "serious risks to AirAsia if the current crisis doesn't end soon, or if the airline doesn't get a cash injection," said Endau Analytics aviation consultant Shukor Yusof.

He said Malaysia's government would be reluctant to bail out a private company but would be forced to "consider the political ramifications of potential job losses if AirAsia is forced to shrink".

The company is just recovering from a crisis it faced earlier this year when Fernandes stepped aside as authorities probed unusual payments at the airline, as part of a $4 billion graft scandal involving European planemaker Airbus.

He returned to his post in March after being cleared by an independent investigation.

The flamboyant Fernandes has carved an image for himself as Asia's answer to Richard Branson, shaking up Southeast Asian air travel with his carrier's slogan "Now everyone can fly".

He has not been shy in flaunting his wealth, and is the co-owner of London football club Queens Park Rangers.

The future of top regional budget carrier AirAsia is in "significant doubt" after the collapse in travel demand caused by coronavirus, its auditor warned, sending the airline's share price tumbling nearly 18 percent on Wednesday.

The future of top regional budget carrier AirAsia is in "significant doubt" after the collapse in travel demand caused by coronavirus, its auditor warned, sending the airline's share price tumbling nearly 18 percent on Wednesday. The aviation industry is facing its biggest-ever crisis due to the pandemic, with airlines worldwide going out of business or laying off huge numbers of staff to stay afloat. AirAsia, led by colourful chief executive Tony Fernandes, pioneered low-cost air travel across Asia in the early 2000s at a time of growing demand from a fast-emerging middle class. But on Monday the debt-laden Malaysian airline reported a record quarterly loss of 803 million ringgit ($187 million) for the first three months of the year, after being forced to ground its fleet due to the virus. Auditor Ernst & Young said Tuesday that global travel restrictions had dented AirAsia's financial performance, with liabilities exceeding assets by 1.84 billion ringgit. It noted the "existence of material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt on... the company's ability to continue as a going concern", in an unqualified audit opinion statement to the Kuala Lumpur stock exchange. AirAsia, which flies to over 150 destinations, was already facing stiff competition from other low-cost carriers before the outbreak, and had reported a net loss of 283 million ringgit in 2019. But the auditor also said AirAsia had "seen positive developments on its business operations" with the gradual lifting of travel restrictions in some countries. - 'Toughest challenge' - AirAsia's shares crashed after the end of a morning trading halt and finished down 17.5 percent at 0.71 ringgit. Even before Monday's dire results, the airline was already reported to have plans to slash hundreds of staff in response to the pandemic. Fernandes said the coronavirus was "by far the toughest challenge" AirAsia had ever faced. But he also sought to strike a positive note. "Every crisis is an obstacle to overcome, and we have restructured the group into a leaner and tighter ship," he said. Demand had rebounded since operations resumed in late April, while the airline had also applied for bank loans to shore up liquidity and entered talks on new investments, he said. But there were "serious risks to AirAsia if the current crisis doesn't end soon, or if the airline doesn't get a cash injection," said Endau Analytics aviation consultant Shukor Yusof. He said Malaysia's government would be reluctant to bail out a private company but would be forced to "consider the political ramifications of potential job losses if AirAsia is forced to shrink". The company is just recovering from a crisis it faced earlier this year when Fernandes stepped aside as authorities probed unusual payments at the airline, as part of a $4 billion graft scandal involving European planemaker Airbus. He returned to his post in March after being cleared by an independent investigation. The flamboyant Fernandes has carved an image for himself as Asia's answer to Richard Branson, shaking up Southeast Asian air travel with his carrier's slogan "Now everyone can fly". He has not been shy in flaunting his wealth, and is the co-owner of London football club Queens Park Rangers.

AirAsia's future in doubt due to virus; share price tumbles

Emirates, one of the world's biggest long-haul airlines, laid off more pilots and cabin crew on Tuesday as it manages a cash crunch caused by the global coronavirus pandemic, and plans thousands of additional job cuts, five company sources said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-economy-to-return-to-pre-crisis-levels-only-in-2022-central-bank-304593" hreflang="en">French economy to return to pre-crisis levels only in 2022: Central bank</a>

Aviation is one of the industries worst hit by the outbreak, with airlines forced to lay off staff and seek government bailouts.

More redundancies were expected at Emirates this week including both Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 pilots, the sources said on the condition of anonymity.

The workforce of 4,300 pilots and nearly 22,000 cabin crew could shrink by almost a third from its pre-coronavirus levels, three of the sources said.

Without giving further details, an airline spokeswoman told Reuters some employees had been laid off.

"Given the significant impact that the pandemic has had on our business, we simply cannot sustain excess resources and have to right size our workforce in line with our reduced operations," she said.

A promise by the Dubai government to provide Emirates with new equity would allow it to "preserve its skilled workforce," the state airline said on May 10.

It has since laid off employees, which sources previously told Reuters were trainee pilots and cabin crew.

Outgoing President Tim Clark has said it could take four years for the airline to resume flying to all of the 157 international destinations it served before the pandemic. It has a fleet of 270 A380 and 777 jets.

The airline has operated limited, mostly outbound services from the United Arab Emirates since grounding passenger flights in March but is due to restart some connecting flights after the UAE last week lifted a suspension.

Emirates has also extended pay cuts until September, and in some cases deepened the reduction to 50%, according to an internal email on Sunday.

Emirates, one of the world's biggest long-haul airlines, laid off more pilots and cabin crew on Tuesday as it manages a cash crunch caused by the global coronavirus pandemic, and plans thousands of additional job cuts, five company sources said.

Emirates, one of the world's biggest long-haul airlines, laid off more pilots and cabin crew on Tuesday as it manages a cash crunch caused by the global coronavirus pandemic, and plans thousands of additional job cuts, five company sources said. Also read: French economy to return to pre-crisis levels only in 2022: Central bank Aviation is one of the industries worst hit by the outbreak, with airlines forced to lay off staff and seek government bailouts. More redundancies were expected at Emirates this week including both Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 pilots, the sources said on the condition of anonymity. The workforce of 4,300 pilots and nearly 22,000 cabin crew could shrink by almost a third from its pre-coronavirus levels, three of the sources said. Without giving further details, an airline spokeswoman told Reuters some employees had been laid off. "Given the significant impact that the pandemic has had on our business, we simply cannot sustain excess resources and have to right size our workforce in line with our reduced operations," she said. A promise by the Dubai government to provide Emirates with new equity would allow it to "preserve its skilled workforce," the state airline said on May 10. It has since laid off employees, which sources previously told Reuters were trainee pilots and cabin crew. Outgoing President Tim Clark has said it could take four years for the airline to resume flying to all of the 157 international destinations it served before the pandemic. It has a fleet of 270 A380 and 777 jets. The airline has operated limited, mostly outbound services from the United Arab Emirates since grounding passenger flights in March but is due to restart some connecting flights after the UAE last week lifted a suspension. Emirates has also extended pay cuts until September, and in some cases deepened the reduction to 50%, according to an internal email on Sunday.

Emirates lays off pilots, cabin crew, plans thousands more job cuts: Sources

A five-year-old boy travelled alone from Delhi to meet his mother in Bengaluru after three months.&nbsp;A few domestic flight routes started plying across the country, and Vihaan Sharma was one of these fights.

Bearing a “special category” ticket, the boy met his mother after three months at the Kempegowda International Airport, ANI reported.

Flights resumed operation today after two months owing to the lockdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic which continues to wreak havoc across the country.

"My five-year-old son Vihaan has travelled alone from Delhi, he has come back to Bengaluru after three months," his mother told ANI, holding Vihaan, donning protective gear.

<img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c7e6f496-5ca9-49ae-aa0a-f28700b07f53" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-6_0.jpg" />

The last flights plied in the end of March, after which the country was put under a strict lockdown to slow down the spread of COVID-19. However, this rendered many unable to go back to their homes, just like the young boy.

Many states were reluctant to reopen airports, especially in light of the record-breaking new cases everyday across the country, especially in the hard hit states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Delhi.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Karnataka:Passengers leave from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, as two flights have landed till now at the airport. A mother who came to receive her son says,"My 5-yr-old son Vihaan Sharma has travelled alone from Delhi,he has come back to Bengaluru after 3 months" <a href="https://t.co/oAOsLCi7v9">pic.twitter.com/oAOsLCi7v9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1264780604958097409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that the flights restarted operating after a long of “hard negotiations” owing to disagreements from many states that feared a rise in the number of infections.

International flights could start plying as early as June, depending on the global condition of coronavirus.

However, people are required to follow strict protocols that include wearing protective gear to maintaining social distance to prevent cross-transmission of the virus.

"Today morning onwards, processes have been working very well. All processes have been made contactless. We are screening all passengers. All the surfaces are being sanitised every 20-30 minutes",&nbsp;Hari Marar, Managing Director &amp; CEO, Bangalore International Airport Ltd told ANI.

A five-year-old boy travelled alone from Delhi to meet his mother in Bengaluru after three months. A few domestic flight routes started plying across the country, and Vihaan Sharma was one of these fights.

A five-year-old boy travelled alone from Delhi to meet his mother in Bengaluru after three months. A few domestic flight routes started plying across the country, and Vihaan Sharma was one of these fights. Bearing a “special category” ticket, the boy met his mother after three months at the Kempegowda International Airport, ANI reported. Flights resumed operation today after two months owing to the lockdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic which continues to wreak havoc across the country. "My five-year-old son Vihaan has travelled alone from Delhi, he has come back to Bengaluru after three months," his mother told ANI, holding Vihaan, donning protective gear. The last flights plied in the end of March, after which the country was put under a strict lockdown to slow down the spread of COVID-19. However, this rendered many unable to go back to their homes, just like the young boy. Many states were reluctant to reopen airports, especially in light of the record-breaking new cases everyday across the country, especially in the hard hit states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Delhi. Karnataka:Passengers leave from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, as two flights have landed till now at the airport. A mother who came to receive her son says,"My 5-yr-old son Vihaan Sharma has travelled alone from Delhi,he has come back to Bengaluru after 3 months" pic.twitter.com/oAOsLCi7v9 — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2020 × The Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that the flights restarted operating after a long of “hard negotiations” owing to disagreements from many states that feared a rise in the number of infections. International flights could start plying as early as June, depending on the global condition of coronavirus. However, people are required to follow strict protocols that include wearing protective gear to maintaining social distance to prevent cross-transmission of the virus. "Today morning onwards, processes have been working very well. All processes have been made contactless. We are screening all passengers. All the surfaces are being sanitised every 20-30 minutes", Hari Marar, Managing Director & CEO, Bangalore International Airport Ltd told ANI.

As flights restart operation, 5 year-old-boy flies alone to meet his mother after three months

As the nation starts lockdown 4.0 from Monday, announcements on resuming of domestic air&nbsp;travel are still awaited.

Keeping that possibility in mind, Airport Authority of India (AAI) has issued a brief guideline on Friday for passengers who will be travelling once the flights resume.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-samudra-setu-indian-navy-ship-jalashwa-leaves-maldives-for-kochi-298919">Also read:&nbsp;Operation Samudra Setu: Indian Navy ship Jalashwa leaves Maldives for Kochi</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
With the possibility of resumption of domestic flights soon, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAI</a> has released some steps that must be followed so passengers are fully geared up while travelling. Wear a mask, carry a hand sanitizer, keep docs handy &amp; register on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AarogyaSetuApp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AarogyaSetuApp</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAICares?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAICares</a> <a href="https://t.co/N6ooZIoOsc">pic.twitter.com/N6ooZIoOsc</a>
— Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AAI_Official/status/1261264185486274560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As per the guidelines, the first thing to take care of for passengers is the compulsory registration on Aarogya Setu app. Every passenger will have to download and register on the app, as it will help the authorities determine if the passenger is travelling from a green zone or a red zone.

Wearing masks and carrying a hand sanitizer will be compulsory. No passenger without masks, gloves and hand sanitizer will be permitted to enter the airport premises. Hand sanitizers, which were earlier not permitted in cabin baggage, have now been allowed upto 350ml.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Since sanitizing hands frequently is one of the measures against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> virus, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has allowed passengers boarding an aircraft to carry hand sanitizer up to 350ml in their cabin baggage. This is to be implemented with immediate effect. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAI</a> <a href="https://t.co/pYKXjfLMxT">pic.twitter.com/pYKXjfLMxT</a>
— Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AAI_Official/status/1260930168069083136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

All passengers will only be able to book tickets through online or telephonic portals. Passengers will also have to do a web check-in and carry a printed version of their boarding pass. There will be no stamping of boarding passes too, till further notice. This will help the authorities reduce physical contact, thus limiting the spread of the coronavirus.

Earlier, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) had&nbsp;issued standard operating procedure (SOP) for all airlines and airport operators. This set of guidelines has followed that first draft.

Air India, in the meanwhile, has been bringing back Indian nationals stuck abroad in the biggest repatriation operation of the country, called Vande Bharat mission.

Indian Railways, too, resumed special 25 trains to help domestic travellers return back to their hometown. Railways is also operating 'shramik trains' for migrant workers who had been stuck away from home due to the nationwide lockdown.

As the nation starts lockdown 4.0 from Monday, announcements on resuming of domestic air travel are still awaited. Keeping that possibility in mind, Airport Authority of India (AAI) has issued a brief guideline on Friday for passengers who will be travelling once the flights resume.

As the nation starts lockdown 4.0 from Monday, announcements on resuming of domestic air travel are still awaited. Keeping that possibility in mind, Airport Authority of India (AAI) has issued a brief guideline on Friday for passengers who will be travelling once the flights resume. Also read: Operation Samudra Setu: Indian Navy ship Jalashwa leaves Maldives for Kochi With the possibility of resumption of domestic flights soon, #AAI has released some steps that must be followed so passengers are fully geared up while travelling. Wear a mask, carry a hand sanitizer, keep docs handy & register on #AarogyaSetuApp. #AAICares pic.twitter.com/N6ooZIoOsc — Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) May 15, 2020 × As per the guidelines, the first thing to take care of for passengers is the compulsory registration on Aarogya Setu app. Every passenger will have to download and register on the app, as it will help the authorities determine if the passenger is travelling from a green zone or a red zone. Wearing masks and carrying a hand sanitizer will be compulsory. No passenger without masks, gloves and hand sanitizer will be permitted to enter the airport premises. Hand sanitizers, which were earlier not permitted in cabin baggage, have now been allowed upto 350ml. Since sanitizing hands frequently is one of the measures against #COVID19 virus, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has allowed passengers boarding an aircraft to carry hand sanitizer up to 350ml in their cabin baggage. This is to be implemented with immediate effect. #AAI pic.twitter.com/pYKXjfLMxT — Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) May 14, 2020 × All passengers will only be able to book tickets through online or telephonic portals. Passengers will also have to do a web check-in and carry a printed version of their boarding pass. There will be no stamping of boarding passes too, till further notice. This will help the authorities reduce physical contact, thus limiting the spread of the coronavirus. Earlier, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) had issued standard operating procedure (SOP) for all airlines and airport operators. This set of guidelines has followed that first draft. Air India, in the meanwhile, has been bringing back Indian nationals stuck abroad in the biggest repatriation operation of the country, called Vande Bharat mission. Indian Railways, too, resumed special 25 trains to help domestic travellers return back to their hometown. Railways is also operating 'shramik trains' for migrant workers who had been stuck away from home due to the nationwide lockdown.

Masks, sanitizers and Aarogya Setu app compulsory: Airport Authority of India

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday.

"Any incoming flights to bring Indians back home will have to await the lifting of the lockdown," he told reporters at a press conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/operation-sanjeevani-india-sends-62-tonnes-of-medical-assistance-to-maldives-amidst-covid-crisis-290128" hreflang="en">Operation Sanjeevani: India sends 6.2 tonnes of medical assistance to Maldives amidst COVID crisis</a>

"The lockdown is till April 15. And, we can start considering the resumption of flights on a case-by-case basis depending on where they are coming from after that," Puri said.

India is under a 21-day lockdown till April 14 and therefore, all domestic and international commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this time period.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-three-indian-americans-infected-with-coronavirus-in-critical-condition-290119" hreflang="en">US: Three Indian-Americans infected with coronavirus in critical condition</a>

However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights, offshore helicopter operations and flights specially permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA can operate during this time period.

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday.

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday. "Any incoming flights to bring Indians back home will have to await the lifting of the lockdown," he told reporters at a press conference. Also read: Operation Sanjeevani: India sends 6.2 tonnes of medical assistance to Maldives amidst COVID crisis "The lockdown is till April 15. And, we can start considering the resumption of flights on a case-by-case basis depending on where they are coming from after that," Puri said. India is under a 21-day lockdown till April 14 and therefore, all domestic and international commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this time period. Also read: US: Three Indian-Americans infected with coronavirus in critical condition However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights, offshore helicopter operations and flights specially permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA can operate during this time period.

International flights resumption after April 15 subject to from where they are coming: Aviation minister

As the world is facing the worst coronavirus outbreak—India has emerged strongly in responding to the crisis so far. Till now, the government of India has rescued 1,497 people, which includes 55 foreign nationals as well.

The deadly coronavirus has crippled large parts of the world, infecting over 1,69,000 and killing more than 6,500 people, mostly in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas.

Porous borders, shortage of medical supplies and lack of awareness have made people more vulnerable to the lethal virus—forcing most countries to respond with strong measures to tackle the pandemic.&nbsp;

India has been highly vigilant and proactive in fighting this global health emergency.

It has managed to keep up its efforts in not just controlling the virus spread, but has also carried out timely rescue and evacuation of stranded citizens.

January 28, 2020. India was one of the first countries to initiate evacuation processes after the news of the virus outbreak in Hubei was reported.&nbsp;

Within a few days, 653 Indians and 7 Maldivians were brought back from Wuhan in two batches of 323 and 330.&nbsp;

All of those rescued were monitored in quarantine either at ITBP Chhawla camp or at Manesar facility in the national capital region.

Neighbourhood first policy has always remained important for India.&nbsp;

Unlike, Pakistan which refused to bring back its own citizens from Wuhan, India has rescued both—its own citizens and nationals from countries.&nbsp;

In its third leg of operations, India brought back 36 nationals belonging to 7 different countries. Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, China, South Africa, USA and Madagascar expressed their gratitude for Delhi's humanitarian action.&nbsp;

India has a massive diaspora. More than 30 million of them living in different continents away from home.&nbsp;

Among them were fisherman from Kerala stranded in Iran, a huge community of labourers in West Asia and Arabia as well.&nbsp;

Collaborating with Tehran, minister of external affairs S Jaishankar and ambassador Dhamu Gaddam evacuated 389 people from Iran — in four batches.

The latest ones to be evacuated were 52 students and a teacher from Tehran.

An Air India flight in Delhi also landed from Tokyo carrying 119 Indians and 5 nationals from Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru—who were earlier quarantined on board the diamond princess, a cruise ship off the Japanese coast.&nbsp;

Another 211 students and 7 foreign nationals were brought to Delhi from Italy—the second most affected country by a novel coronavirus.

The government of India has responded swiftly and effectively in dealing with the first signs of the infection, which has, so far, affected more than 110 people and killed 2.&nbsp;

Apart from carrying out rescue operations, India has also provided 15 tonnes of medical and relief consignment to china.&nbsp;

Prime minister Narendra Modi has interacted with leaders of SAARC countries through a video conference. Allocating an initial fund of $10 million, PM Modi has called for setting up a rapid response team of doctors and experts to fight the coronavirus outbreak which is still in its benign, early stages in India.

As the world is facing the worst coronavirus outbreak—India has emerged strongly in responding to the crisis so far. Till now, the government of India has rescued 1,497 people, which includes 55 foreign nationals as well.

As the world is facing the worst coronavirus outbreak—India has emerged strongly in responding to the crisis so far. Till now, the government of India has rescued 1,497 people, which includes 55 foreign nationals as well. The deadly coronavirus has crippled large parts of the world, infecting over 1,69,000 and killing more than 6,500 people, mostly in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. Porous borders, shortage of medical supplies and lack of awareness have made people more vulnerable to the lethal virus—forcing most countries to respond with strong measures to tackle the pandemic. India has been highly vigilant and proactive in fighting this global health emergency. It has managed to keep up its efforts in not just controlling the virus spread, but has also carried out timely rescue and evacuation of stranded citizens. January 28, 2020. India was one of the first countries to initiate evacuation processes after the news of the virus outbreak in Hubei was reported. Within a few days, 653 Indians and 7 Maldivians were brought back from Wuhan in two batches of 323 and 330. All of those rescued were monitored in quarantine either at ITBP Chhawla camp or at Manesar facility in the national capital region. Neighbourhood first policy has always remained important for India. Unlike, Pakistan which refused to bring back its own citizens from Wuhan, India has rescued both—its own citizens and nationals from countries. In its third leg of operations, India brought back 36 nationals belonging to 7 different countries. Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, China, South Africa, USA and Madagascar expressed their gratitude for Delhi's humanitarian action. India has a massive diaspora. More than 30 million of them living in different continents away from home. Among them were fisherman from Kerala stranded in Iran, a huge community of labourers in West Asia and Arabia as well. Collaborating with Tehran, minister of external affairs S Jaishankar and ambassador Dhamu Gaddam evacuated 389 people from Iran — in four batches. The latest ones to be evacuated were 52 students and a teacher from Tehran. An Air India flight in Delhi also landed from Tokyo carrying 119 Indians and 5 nationals from Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru—who were earlier quarantined on board the diamond princess, a cruise ship off the Japanese coast. Another 211 students and 7 foreign nationals were brought to Delhi from Italy—the second most affected country by a novel coronavirus. The government of India has responded swiftly and effectively in dealing with the first signs of the infection, which has, so far, affected more than 110 people and killed 2. Apart from carrying out rescue operations, India has also provided 15 tonnes of medical and relief consignment to china. Prime minister Narendra Modi has interacted with leaders of SAARC countries through a video conference. Allocating an initial fund of $10 million, PM Modi has called for setting up a rapid response team of doctors and experts to fight the coronavirus outbreak which is still in its benign, early stages in India.

Coronavirus outbreak: India emerges as a proactive nation in fighting global health emergency

One of the biggest industries to be hit by the long-term repercussions of the coronavirus is aviation. Thousands of flights have been cancelled globally, with stringent travel bans in place to contain the outbreak.

However, this helped create a new record!

On March 14, Air Tahiti Nui, a French airline undertook the longest ever passenger flight in terms of distance. The flight covered 15,715 kilometres from Papeete in Tahiti, French Polynesia to the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-the-global-aviation-industry-survive-coronavirus-related-slowdown-286815" hreflang="en">Will the global aviation industry survive coronavirus-related slowdown?</a>

CNN reported that this new record was a result of the travel restrictions in place, especially the ones set up by the United States.

Usually, this route involves a halt at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). 
 
If an aeroplane halts in the US, passengers have to undergo customs before continuing their journey.

<img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1bc68b7-3a31-40e1-ace5-ee90e5f4b9f5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_32.jpg" />

However, owing to current restrictions, this was impractical. So, the aircraft flew directly from Papeete airport to Paris and covered the journey in under 16 hours, making it the world's longest commercial flight, considering the distance which was covered.

The record was previously held by Singapore Airlines, which offers a flight between Singapore and Newark covering a distance of 15,343 kilometres.

An Australian carrier called Qantas tried something different last year. They undertook ''Project Sunrise'', whereby the aircraft flew for 19 hours non-stop between London and Sydney. However, no paying passengers were on board.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aviation-industry-hit-by-coronavirus-286814/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This flight, TN064 is also the world's longest scheduled domestic flight, for it travelled within French territory, from French Polynesia and mainland France.

The aircraft crew included four pilots, and ran the next-generation Boeing 787-9, CNN reported.

Media reports suggest that the aircraft was not at all full, and was able to undertake the full journey without refuelling.

The airline, however, said that these are one-off measures, only in place until the coronavirus pandemic is in full swing. Most airlines around the world are trying to navigate across the contemporary aviation climate, whereby a lot of bans have crippled the scope of layovers and halts.

The International Air Transport Association has said that the revenue losses due to coronavirus could run as high as 113 billion dollars across the industry this year. 
&nbsp;

One of the biggest industries to be hit by the long-term repercussions of the coronavirus is aviation. Thousands of flights have been cancelled globally, with stringent travel bans in place to contain the outbreak.

One of the biggest industries to be hit by the long-term repercussions of the coronavirus is aviation. Thousands of flights have been cancelled globally, with stringent travel bans in place to contain the outbreak. However, this helped create a new record! On March 14, Air Tahiti Nui, a French airline undertook the longest ever passenger flight in terms of distance. The flight covered 15,715 kilometres from Papeete in Tahiti, French Polynesia to the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris. Also read: Will the global aviation industry survive coronavirus-related slowdown? CNN reported that this new record was a result of the travel restrictions in place, especially the ones set up by the United States. Usually, this route involves a halt at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). If an aeroplane halts in the US, passengers have to undergo customs before continuing their journey. However, owing to current restrictions, this was impractical. So, the aircraft flew directly from Papeete airport to Paris and covered the journey in under 16 hours, making it the world's longest commercial flight, considering the distance which was covered. The record was previously held by Singapore Airlines, which offers a flight between Singapore and Newark covering a distance of 15,343 kilometres. An Australian carrier called Qantas tried something different last year. They undertook ''Project Sunrise'', whereby the aircraft flew for 19 hours non-stop between London and Sydney. However, no paying passengers were on board. This flight, TN064 is also the world's longest scheduled domestic flight, for it travelled within French territory, from French Polynesia and mainland France. The aircraft crew included four pilots, and ran the next-generation Boeing 787-9, CNN reported. Media reports suggest that the aircraft was not at all full, and was able to undertake the full journey without refuelling. The airline, however, said that these are one-off measures, only in place until the coronavirus pandemic is in full swing. Most airlines around the world are trying to navigate across the contemporary aviation climate, whereby a lot of bans have crippled the scope of layovers and halts. The International Air Transport Association has said that the revenue losses due to coronavirus could run as high as 113 billion dollars across the industry this year.

Coronavirus helps set a new record: World's longest scheduled commercial flight ever!

Saudi Arabia has suspended aircraft and ship services Monday with nine countries amid the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Saudi Bans air and ship travel with 9 nations

India has successfully completed two rescue missions. Over 200 people have been brought back from two hotspots of the Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak. This report has the details.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak, India evacuates over 200 people

Torrential rain brought floods to Indonesia’s capital Jakarta paralysing large parts of the city as rescue workers used boats to navigate streets.

Indonesia's Capital Jakarta could be under water by 2050

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

Coronavirus Updates: IAF, Air India carry out Evacuations

Australia recently announced that it will begin screening passengers arriving from China to limit the spread of a new mysterious coronavirus which is gaining traction in the Chinese mainland with new cases popping up in nearby countries like Japan and South Korea. The statement was put out by the country's chief medical officer.

Australian authorities had earlier claimed that limiting an outbreak would be very difficult.

The Chinese recently confirmed that more than 200 cases of the virus have been reported, with four deaths in the city of Wuhan.&nbsp;

The virus, as opposed to what was presumed, spreads from person-to-person, and causes a type of pneumonia.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="82c7a6fe-0b49-4816-8402-5f9f012d3cec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_51.jpg" /> 
A woman walks in front of the closed Huanan wholesale seafood market, where health authorities say a man who died from a respiratory illness had purchased goods from, in the city of Wuhan, Hubei province, on January 12, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Additionally, the virus has recently reached Thailand, Japan, and South Korea, which has raised concerns about it spreading via air travel.

The Chief Medical Officer of the Australian government, Brendan Murphy recently said that ''biosecurity officials'' would begin screening passengers slated to arrive on the three weekly flights from Wuhan to Sydney.&nbsp;

"You cannot absolutely prevent the spread of disease into the country. The incubation period is probably a week," Murphy told reporters in Canberra.

According to official information reported by Reuters, passengers would be handed out a checklist pamphlet to ascertain whether anybody had contracted fever or the disease itself. However, Murphy clearly added that these measures are capable of offering only limited protection.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-person-to-person-spread-of-the-new-virus-as-fourth-death-reported-275590">China confirms person-to-person spread of the new virus as fourth death reported</a>

"It's about identifying those with high risk and making sure those who have a high risk know about it and know how to get medical attention", Murphy added.

Australia receives a large horde of tourists from China: almost one million Chinese folks visited the continent-cum-country last year.

<h6><img alt="iiii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="95cc22d2-9468-42d8-a3a0-a12c29fff2bf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_58.jpg" /> 
Medical staff members carry a patient into the Jinyintan hospital, where patients infected by a mysterious SARS-like virus are being treated, in Wuhan in China's central Hubei province on January 18, 2020&nbsp; | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Even though only three weekly flights ply from Wuhan to Sydney, Murphy suggested that people could arrive through other locations. About 160 flights come from China to Australia every year.

Fears of an epidemic have increased that China prepares for the Lunar New Year this week, which witnesses millions coming to and going from the country.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sars-like-virus-spreading-across-china-amid-140-new-cases-third-death-275342">SARS-like virus spreading across China amid 140 new cases, third death</a>

The Australian screening process would involve checking people for higher body temperatures, a technique used to limit the SARS outbreak earlier. Murphy claimed that this technique was ineffective and fostered a false sense of security.

The SARS outbreak, which had also begun in China, left 800 people dead around the world in 2002-03.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

Australia recently announced that it will begin screening passengers arriving from China to limit the spread of a new mysterious coronavirus which is gaining traction in the Chinese mainland with new cases popping up in nearby countries like Japan and South Korea.

Australia recently announced that it will begin screening passengers arriving from China to limit the spread of a new mysterious coronavirus which is gaining traction in the Chinese mainland with new cases popping up in nearby countries like Japan and South Korea. The statement was put out by the country's chief medical officer. Australian authorities had earlier claimed that limiting an outbreak would be very difficult. The Chinese recently confirmed that more than 200 cases of the virus have been reported, with four deaths in the city of Wuhan. The virus, as opposed to what was presumed, spreads from person-to-person, and causes a type of pneumonia. A woman walks in front of the closed Huanan wholesale seafood market, where health authorities say a man who died from a respiratory illness had purchased goods from, in the city of Wuhan, Hubei province, on January 12, 2020 | AFP Additionally, the virus has recently reached Thailand, Japan, and South Korea, which has raised concerns about it spreading via air travel. The Chief Medical Officer of the Australian government, Brendan Murphy recently said that ''biosecurity officials'' would begin screening passengers slated to arrive on the three weekly flights from Wuhan to Sydney. "You cannot absolutely prevent the spread of disease into the country. The incubation period is probably a week," Murphy told reporters in Canberra. According to official information reported by Reuters, passengers would be handed out a checklist pamphlet to ascertain whether anybody had contracted fever or the disease itself. However, Murphy clearly added that these measures are capable of offering only limited protection. Read more: China confirms person-to-person spread of the new virus as fourth death reported "It's about identifying those with high risk and making sure those who have a high risk know about it and know how to get medical attention", Murphy added. Australia receives a large horde of tourists from China: almost one million Chinese folks visited the continent-cum-country last year. Medical staff members carry a patient into the Jinyintan hospital, where patients infected by a mysterious SARS-like virus are being treated, in Wuhan in China's central Hubei province on January 18, 2020 | AFP Even though only three weekly flights ply from Wuhan to Sydney, Murphy suggested that people could arrive through other locations. About 160 flights come from China to Australia every year. Fears of an epidemic have increased that China prepares for the Lunar New Year this week, which witnesses millions coming to and going from the country. Read more: SARS-like virus spreading across China amid 140 new cases, third death The Australian screening process would involve checking people for higher body temperatures, a technique used to limit the SARS outbreak earlier. Murphy claimed that this technique was ineffective and fostered a false sense of security. The SARS outbreak, which had also begun in China, left 800 people dead around the world in 2002-03. (With inputs from Reuters)

Australia to begin screening passengers from China as coronavirus continues to spread

Unions protest in Paris against Macron's pension reform

Several Asian airlines have cut flights to Hong Kong over the coming weeks, according to industry scheduling publication Routes Online, as anti-government protests in the city grow increasingly violent and disrupt daily life.

Routes online said latest schedules showed cancellations from PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, India's SpiceJet Ltd, Malaysia's AirAsia Group Bhd, and the Philippines' PAL Holdings Inc and Cebu Air Inc.

The cuts come as Hong Kong police on Monday fired tear gas at protesters trying to escape a besieged university, while others armed with petrol bombs awaited an expected operation to oust them.

The unrest, raging for almost six months, and an escalating Sino-US&nbsp;trade war has pushed the Asian financial hub into recession for the first time in a decade.

On Monday, Routes Online showed Garuda has reduced weekly flights to Hong Kong to four from 21 through mid-December, SpiceJet has suspended its Mumbai-Hong Kong route through January&nbsp;15 and AirAsia has cut flights from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu in December and January.

Garuda and SpiceJet did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. AirAsia said passenger numbers have been lower over the past few months and that it is adjusting capacity accordingly.

A spokeswoman for PAL Holdings' Philippine Airlines said the carrier was using smaller planes than usual for Hong Kong as passengers were postponing travel due to safety concerns. It has also cut daily flights from Manila to four from five, she said.

A spokeswoman for Cebu Air's Cebu Pacific said the budget carrier has cut flights from Cebu and Clark through December and January respectively due to softened demand. She said the airline nevertheless launched its Puerto Princesa-Hong Kong route on Sunday as scheduled.

Airport Authority Hong Kong on Sunday reported an October decline of 13 per cent&nbsp;in passengers and 6.1 per cent&nbsp;in the number of inbound and outbound flights - the steepest falls since the unrest began. It said a growing proportion of travellers were using Hong Kong as a transit point rather than a destination.

Last week, Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd said its business outlook was "challenging and uncertain" and that it has cut capacity and delayed four plane deliveries due to falling demand.

Major mainland Chinese carriers also reported double-digit declines in demand on so-called regional routes in September and October as protests in Hong Kong and travel restrictions to Taiwan took their toll, monthly traffic reports showed.

Routes Online said several Chinese carriers, including Air China Ltd, China Eastern Airlines Corp Ltd and China Southern Airlines Co Ltd had filed for fresh capacity reductions to Hong Kong since late October.

China Eastern declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Air China and China Southern did not respond to requests for comment.

Several Asian airlines have cut flights to Hong Kong over the coming weeks, according to industry scheduling publication Routes Online, as anti-government protests in the city grow increasingly violent and disrupt daily life.

Several Asian airlines have cut flights to Hong Kong over the coming weeks, according to industry scheduling publication Routes Online, as anti-government protests in the city grow increasingly violent and disrupt daily life. Routes online said latest schedules showed cancellations from PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, India's SpiceJet Ltd, Malaysia's AirAsia Group Bhd, and the Philippines' PAL Holdings Inc and Cebu Air Inc. The cuts come as Hong Kong police on Monday fired tear gas at protesters trying to escape a besieged university, while others armed with petrol bombs awaited an expected operation to oust them. The unrest, raging for almost six months, and an escalating Sino-US trade war has pushed the Asian financial hub into recession for the first time in a decade. On Monday, Routes Online showed Garuda has reduced weekly flights to Hong Kong to four from 21 through mid-December, SpiceJet has suspended its Mumbai-Hong Kong route through January 15 and AirAsia has cut flights from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu in December and January. Garuda and SpiceJet did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. AirAsia said passenger numbers have been lower over the past few months and that it is adjusting capacity accordingly. A spokeswoman for PAL Holdings' Philippine Airlines said the carrier was using smaller planes than usual for Hong Kong as passengers were postponing travel due to safety concerns. It has also cut daily flights from Manila to four from five, she said. A spokeswoman for Cebu Air's Cebu Pacific said the budget carrier has cut flights from Cebu and Clark through December and January respectively due to softened demand. She said the airline nevertheless launched its Puerto Princesa-Hong Kong route on Sunday as scheduled. Airport Authority Hong Kong on Sunday reported an October decline of 13 per cent in passengers and 6.1 per cent in the number of inbound and outbound flights - the steepest falls since the unrest began. It said a growing proportion of travellers were using Hong Kong as a transit point rather than a destination. Last week, Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd said its business outlook was "challenging and uncertain" and that it has cut capacity and delayed four plane deliveries due to falling demand. Major mainland Chinese carriers also reported double-digit declines in demand on so-called regional routes in September and October as protests in Hong Kong and travel restrictions to Taiwan took their toll, monthly traffic reports showed. Routes Online said several Chinese carriers, including Air China Ltd, China Eastern Airlines Corp Ltd and China Southern Airlines Co Ltd had filed for fresh capacity reductions to Hong Kong since late October. China Eastern declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Air China and China Southern did not respond to requests for comment.

Asian airlines slash flights to Hong Kong as unrest escalates

Odd-Even road scheme to be implemented tomorrow.

Air Apocalypse in Delhi; Flights delayed, Visibility low in Delhi

French carrier&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-wallet-xl-airways-seeks-rescue-deal-with-air-france-251933">Air&nbsp;France</a>&nbsp;will&nbsp;offset&nbsp;the carbon dioxide&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;of its 500-odd&nbsp;daily&nbsp;internal flights by 2020 at a cost of millions of euros, the company's CEO has announced.

In a bid to counteract its climate impact, the company will finance projects that support tree planting, forest protection and the global shift to less-polluting energy, Anne Rigail told Le Parisien newspaper.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It is an investment of several million euros, she said in an interview published late Monday, adding the company was acting "voluntarily".&nbsp;

Other projects would include banning single-use plastics such as cutlery from local flights as from January, and "to start separating and recycling waste" from October.&nbsp;

The airline industry has been under fire over its carbon&nbsp;emissions, which at 285 grammes of&nbsp;CO2&nbsp;emitted per kilometre travelled by each passenger, far exceed all other modes of transport, according to the European Environment Agency.&nbsp;

Heavy-duty transportation, freight trucking, shipping and aviation, represent over a tenth of global greenhouse gas&nbsp;emissions, says the World Resources Institute, a research body.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;contribute to global warming and climate change, which scientists say will unleash ever harsher droughts, superstorms, and sea-level rise.

In July,&nbsp;France&nbsp;announced it would impose new taxes on plane tickets of between 1.50 and 18 euros per flight, a move criticised by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-france-emirates-maintain-cairo-flights-after-british-air-suspension-237472">Air&nbsp;France</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It is meant to raise about 180 million euros a&nbsp;year&nbsp;to be invested in greener transport infrastructure.&nbsp;

Rigail said she did not know if there had been a drop in passenger numbers due to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-nobel-for-swedens-greta-thunberg-a-tough-decision-for-prize-committee-252010">campaign of "flight shaming"</a>&nbsp;spearheaded by 16-year-old schoolgirl Greta Thunberg, who has become a symbol of the fight against climate change.&nbsp;

French carrier Air France will offset the carbon dioxide emissions of its 500-odd daily internal flights by 2020 at a cost of millions of euros, the company's CEO has announced.

French carrier Air France will offset the carbon dioxide emissions of its 500-odd daily internal flights by 2020 at a cost of millions of euros, the company's CEO has announced. In a bid to counteract its climate impact, the company will finance projects that support tree planting, forest protection and the global shift to less-polluting energy, Anne Rigail told Le Parisien newspaper. "It is an investment of several million euros, she said in an interview published late Monday, adding the company was acting "voluntarily". Other projects would include banning single-use plastics such as cutlery from local flights as from January, and "to start separating and recycling waste" from October. The airline industry has been under fire over its carbon emissions, which at 285 grammes of CO2 emitted per kilometre travelled by each passenger, far exceed all other modes of transport, according to the European Environment Agency. Heavy-duty transportation, freight trucking, shipping and aviation, represent over a tenth of global greenhouse gas emissions, says the World Resources Institute, a research body. The emissions contribute to global warming and climate change, which scientists say will unleash ever harsher droughts, superstorms, and sea-level rise. In July, France announced it would impose new taxes on plane tickets of between 1.50 and 18 euros per flight, a move criticised by Air France. It is meant to raise about 180 million euros a year to be invested in greener transport infrastructure. Rigail said she did not know if there had been a drop in passenger numbers due to a campaign of "flight shaming" spearheaded by 16-year-old schoolgirl Greta Thunberg, who has become a symbol of the fight against climate change.

Air France to offset daily CO2 emissions by next year

In an effort to give comfort to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-four-pumps-brought-to-remove-floodwaters-accelerate-relief-work-death-toll-reaches-40-253055">rain-hit Bihar</a>, Air India on Tuesday announced that it has waived off all applicable penalties of re-issuance, date change, no-show, and cancellation and refund charges for travel to and from Patna, for both domestic as well as international flights.

The waive-off is for both domestic and international flights for up to October 3.

"#FlyAI: Due to inclement weather at Patna resulting in inconvenience to passengers #Airindia has waived off all applicable penalties of re-issuance, date change, no-show, cancellation and refund charges for travel from/to Patna for both Dom &amp; Int flights for travel up to 3rd October,19," Air India announced in a tweet on Tuesday afternoon.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyAI</a>: Due to inclement weather at Patna resulting in inconvenience to passengers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Airindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Airindia</a> has waived off all applicable penalties of re-issuance, date change, no-show,cancellation and refund charges for travel from/to Patna for both Dom &amp; Int flights for travel upto 3rdOct,19
— Air India (@airindiain) <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain/status/1178959609140137985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As many as 40 people have died and many are injured in the state due to incessant rain and floods in many parts of Bihar, officials said on Tuesday.

According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, 40 people are dead whereas nine are injured, due to heavy rainfall and flooding in the state.

On Sunday, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue.

As per the weather forecasting report by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-predicts-heavy-rainfall-over-bihar-sikkim-252670">India Meteorological Department</a>, Patna is likely to receive more rainfall for the next few days accompanied by thunderstorms.

In an effort to give comfort to rain-hit Bihar, Air India on Tuesday announced that it has waived off all applicable penalties of re-issuance, date change, no-show, and cancellation and refund charges for travel to and from Patna, for both domestic as well as international flights.

In an effort to give comfort to rain-hit Bihar, Air India on Tuesday announced that it has waived off all applicable penalties of re-issuance, date change, no-show, and cancellation and refund charges for travel to and from Patna, for both domestic as well as international flights. The waive-off is for both domestic and international flights for up to October 3. "#FlyAI: Due to inclement weather at Patna resulting in inconvenience to passengers #Airindia has waived off all applicable penalties of re-issuance, date change, no-show, cancellation and refund charges for travel from/to Patna for both Dom & Int flights for travel up to 3rd October,19," Air India announced in a tweet on Tuesday afternoon. #FlyAI: Due to inclement weather at Patna resulting in inconvenience to passengers #Airindia has waived off all applicable penalties of re-issuance, date change, no-show,cancellation and refund charges for travel from/to Patna for both Dom & Int flights for travel upto 3rdOct,19 — Air India (@airindiain) October 1, 2019 × As many as 40 people have died and many are injured in the state due to incessant rain and floods in many parts of Bihar, officials said on Tuesday. According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, 40 people are dead whereas nine are injured, due to heavy rainfall and flooding in the state. On Sunday, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue. As per the weather forecasting report by India Meteorological Department, Patna is likely to receive more rainfall for the next few days accompanied by thunderstorms.

Bihar: Air India waives off penalties on cancellation, refund for flights to and from Patna till October 3

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-dgca-suspends-pilots-license-for-3-months-in-runway-incursion-case-246899">suspended the licenses</a> of two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/spicejet-to-shift-entire-operation-to-terminal-2-of-mumbai-airport-244513">SpiceJet</a> pilots for four months each over the June 13 flight from Hyderabad to Jaipur, which suffered cabin pressurisation failure.

The incident occurred on a B737-800 operated as flight SG 341.

The civil aviation watchdog said that one of the pilots,&nbsp;Captain Sunil Mehta had forgotten to put the bleed switch on during cockpit preparation, departure briefing and after takeoff checklist which resulted in pressurisation failure during the climb.

The second pilot, Captain Vikram Singh had called out bleeds 'on'&nbsp;during after takeoff checklist.

"However, bleeds were still in off position which resulted into pressurisation failure during a climb," the DGCA said in its suspension letter, adding that the action jeopardised the safety of the aircraft and its occupants.

"In exercise of the powers delegated under Clause (a) of the Sub-Rule (3) of Rule 19 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, the undersigned hereby suspend the license of Captain Sunil Mehta and Captain Vikram Singh for a period of four months from the date of the incident," the civil aviation watchdog said.

Earlier on September 23, the DGCA had issued a show-cause notice to the pilots giving them a time period of 15 days to explain why action should not be taken against them.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) suspended the licenses of two SpiceJet pilots for four months each over the June 13 flight from Hyderabad to Jaipur, which suffered cabin pressurisation failure.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) suspended the licenses of two SpiceJet pilots for four months each over the June 13 flight from Hyderabad to Jaipur, which suffered cabin pressurisation failure. The incident occurred on a B737-800 operated as flight SG 341. The civil aviation watchdog said that one of the pilots, Captain Sunil Mehta had forgotten to put the bleed switch on during cockpit preparation, departure briefing and after takeoff checklist which resulted in pressurisation failure during the climb. The second pilot, Captain Vikram Singh had called out bleeds 'on' during after takeoff checklist. "However, bleeds were still in off position which resulted into pressurisation failure during a climb," the DGCA said in its suspension letter, adding that the action jeopardised the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. "In exercise of the powers delegated under Clause (a) of the Sub-Rule (3) of Rule 19 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, the undersigned hereby suspend the license of Captain Sunil Mehta and Captain Vikram Singh for a period of four months from the date of the incident," the civil aviation watchdog said. Earlier on September 23, the DGCA had issued a show-cause notice to the pilots giving them a time period of 15 days to explain why action should not be taken against them.

Two SpiceJet pilots suspended over air pressurisation failure in flight

Solar panels, vegan diets, no flights: Meet America's climate revolutionaries

Fights erupted in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hills-shine-with-protest-lights-in-festival-themed-rally-249521">Hong Kong</a> on Saturday with political rivals trading blows <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-plan-shopping-mall-sit-ins-after-hill-top-human-chains-249585">in a mall and Beijing supporters using Chinese flags to assault</a>&nbsp;opponents on a street, deepening the city's polarisation after months of pro-democracy protests.

The once-stable international hub has been convulsed by weeks of huge, sometimes violent rallies calling for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability.

The movement is the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city was handed back by Britain in 1997 and shows no sign of ending, with city leaders and Beijing taking a hard line.

Fights have begun breaking out with increased frequency after pro-democracy supporters began holding impromptu singalongs of a popular protest anthem&nbsp;and as pro- Beijing supporters have held rival gatherings to sing China's national anthem.

In the district of Fortress Hill on Saturday, a group of men, many waving Chinese flags and wearing blue t-shirts declaring "I love HK police", attacked people perceived to be pro-democracy protesters.

Multiple videos posted online showed the group of men assaulting largely younger victims with large flags on poles and with punches and kicks as terrified onlookers ran away.

Hong Kong police did not respond to a request for comment on the incident.

Fortress Hill is next to North Point, an area of the city where similar mob attacks by government supporters have occurred this summer and which has long been a bastion of pro-Beijing sentiment.

Shortly before the assaults, the men were filmed tearing down post-it notes and posters on a nearby "Lennon Wall", pro-democracy billboards which have sprung up across the city.

Within hours, the wall was back up as crowds put up new slogans and messages.

"It makes me so angry," a 37-year-old local pro-democracy protester, who gave her first name as Ed, told AFP.

"These walls are a form of emotional support, it shows the movement is still alive. But even if they destroy it, we will just build it again."

Bloody mall brawl

Fights later broke out between pro-China and pro-democracy supporters in Amoy Plaza, a shopping centre on the other side of the harbour.

An AFP photographer at the scene said some two hundred people had gathered to wave Chinese flags and sing the national anthem.

Violence erupted after pro-democracy supporters arrived on the scene with several people on both sides visibly bloodied and bruised.

Police with shields and helmets later rushed into the mall, ending the fights.

Some young pro-democracy supporters were seen being detained outside and inside the mall by police.

The South China Morning Post said fights also broke out between ideological rivals in a subway station.

Democracy protesters have accused police of taking sides, clamping down harder on their camp than violent government supporters accusations the force has strongly denied.

An attack by pro-government men with sticks in the town of Yuen Long in July which left more than 40 people hospitalised sent anger soaring after police were accused to taking too long to get to the incident and failing to arrest the aggressors on site.

Hong Kong has been battered by nearly 100 days of protests, sparked by a now-abandoned plan to allow extraditions to the mainland.

But with few concessions won so far the movement has snowballed into wider calls for democracy and a halt to sliding freedoms under Beijing's rule.

Millions have taken part in huge, largely peaceful demonstrations.

But smaller groups of hardline protesters have fought increasingly violent battles with riot police and vandalised subway stations in scenes that have sent shockwaves through the once-stable financial hub.

Under a deal signed with Britain ahead of the city's 1997 handover to China, Hong Kong is allowed to keep its unique freedoms for 50 years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-activist-joshua-wong-seeks-trump-us-congress-support-249535">Democracy activists</a> accuse Beijing of reneging on those promises by ramping up political control over the semi-autonomous territory.

Activists and analysts say the movement will only end when some other key demands are met, such as an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for the nearly 1,400 people arrested and universal suffrage.

But there is little sign of Beijing agreeing to those demands.

Plans by demonstrators to hold a large rally on Sunday have been rejected by the police.

Previous bans have simply been ignored by the masses and clashes with police have quickly followed.

Protesters have also called for rallies the next two weekends and a general strike starting in October.

Fights erupted in Hong Kong on Saturday with political rivals trading blows in a mall and Beijing supporters using Chinese flags to assault opponents on a street, deepening the city's polarisation after months of pro-democracy protests.

Fights erupted in Hong Kong on Saturday with political rivals trading blows in a mall and Beijing supporters using Chinese flags to assault opponents on a street, deepening the city's polarisation after months of pro-democracy protests. The once-stable international hub has been convulsed by weeks of huge, sometimes violent rallies calling for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability. The movement is the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city was handed back by Britain in 1997 and shows no sign of ending, with city leaders and Beijing taking a hard line. Fights have begun breaking out with increased frequency after pro-democracy supporters began holding impromptu singalongs of a popular protest anthem and as pro- Beijing supporters have held rival gatherings to sing China's national anthem. In the district of Fortress Hill on Saturday, a group of men, many waving Chinese flags and wearing blue t-shirts declaring "I love HK police", attacked people perceived to be pro-democracy protesters. Multiple videos posted online showed the group of men assaulting largely younger victims with large flags on poles and with punches and kicks as terrified onlookers ran away. Hong Kong police did not respond to a request for comment on the incident. Fortress Hill is next to North Point, an area of the city where similar mob attacks by government supporters have occurred this summer and which has long been a bastion of pro-Beijing sentiment. Shortly before the assaults, the men were filmed tearing down post-it notes and posters on a nearby "Lennon Wall", pro-democracy billboards which have sprung up across the city. Within hours, the wall was back up as crowds put up new slogans and messages. "It makes me so angry," a 37-year-old local pro-democracy protester, who gave her first name as Ed, told AFP. "These walls are a form of emotional support, it shows the movement is still alive. But even if they destroy it, we will just build it again." Bloody mall brawl Fights later broke out between pro-China and pro-democracy supporters in Amoy Plaza, a shopping centre on the other side of the harbour. An AFP photographer at the scene said some two hundred people had gathered to wave Chinese flags and sing the national anthem. Violence erupted after pro-democracy supporters arrived on the scene with several people on both sides visibly bloodied and bruised. Police with shields and helmets later rushed into the mall, ending the fights. Some young pro-democracy supporters were seen being detained outside and inside the mall by police. The South China Morning Post said fights also broke out between ideological rivals in a subway station. Democracy protesters have accused police of taking sides, clamping down harder on their camp than violent government supporters accusations the force has strongly denied. An attack by pro-government men with sticks in the town of Yuen Long in July which left more than 40 people hospitalised sent anger soaring after police were accused to taking too long to get to the incident and failing to arrest the aggressors on site. Hong Kong has been battered by nearly 100 days of protests, sparked by a now-abandoned plan to allow extraditions to the mainland. But with few concessions won so far the movement has snowballed into wider calls for democracy and a halt to sliding freedoms under Beijing's rule. Millions have taken part in huge, largely peaceful demonstrations. But smaller groups of hardline protesters have fought increasingly violent battles with riot police and vandalised subway stations in scenes that have sent shockwaves through the once-stable financial hub. Under a deal signed with Britain ahead of the city's 1997 handover to China, Hong Kong is allowed to keep its unique freedoms for 50 years. Democracy activists accuse Beijing of reneging on those promises by ramping up political control over the semi-autonomous territory. Activists and analysts say the movement will only end when some other key demands are met, such as an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for the nearly 1,400 people arrested and universal suffrage. But there is little sign of Beijing agreeing to those demands. Plans by demonstrators to hold a large rally on Sunday have been rejected by the police. Previous bans have simply been ignored by the masses and clashes with police have quickly followed. Protesters have also called for rallies the next two weekends and a general strike starting in October.

Mall brawls and street fights as Hong Kong polarisation deepens

Flights were cancelled after protesters took over terminals

Breaking News: Hong Kong airport cancels departing flights

All flights suspended at Hong Kong airport today.

WION Playlist: Protests continue at Hong Kong Airport

Air India has capped fares of all its flights to and from Srinagar till August 15, a spokesperson for the airline said on Sunday.

Speaking to ANI, AI spokesperson Dhananjay Kumar said the national carrier has capped fares at Rs 9500 after Jammu and Kashmir administration on Friday issued a security advisory for tourists and Amarnath Yatris asking them to leave the Valley immediately citing security concerns.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has advised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-airlines-to-prepare-extra-flights-for-srinagar-tourists-amarnath-yatris-dgca-240337">airlines to rein in surging airfares for pilgrims</a> returning from Amarnath Yatra.

Airfares for flights from Srinagar over the weekend shot up to abnormally high levels following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/britain-issues-travel-advisory-to-citizens-travelling-to-kashmir-over-amarnath-alert-240502">security advisory for tourists and pilgrims</a>.

For a one-way direct flight from Srinagar to Delhi, even low-cost airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir and AirAsia charged between Rs 10,000 to Rs 22,000, according to travel portals, as against around Rs 3,000.

Similarly, from Srinagar to Jammu, flight rates on Saturday were Rs 16,000. Other places like Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Jaipur also witnessed a jump in airfares ranging between Rs 10,000 to Rs 19,000.

Web portals of several airlines with flights from Srinagar on Saturday and Sunday showed that virtually all seats were sold out.

The advisory to Amarnath Yatris was issued after it was announced in a joint press conference of the Army and police forces in Srinagar that weapons and ammunition were recovered in the Amarnath Yatra route.

They also said terrorists from Pakistan were planning to launch an attack on Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, based on credible inputs.

In view of the additional rush of passengers, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had on Friday asked Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar to fly out Amarnath Yatris and tourists from the Valley.

Soon after DGCA's directions, airlines made announcements to give a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all its flights to/from Srinagar.

&nbsp;

Air India has capped fares of all its flights to and from Srinagar till August 15, a spokesperson for the airline said on Sunday. Speaking to ANI, AI spokesperson Dhananjay Kumar said the national carrier has capped fares at Rs 9500 after Jammu and Kashmir administration on Friday issued a security advisory for tourists and Amarnath Yatris asking them to leave the Valley immediately citing security concerns.

Air India has capped fares of all its flights to and from Srinagar till August 15, a spokesperson for the airline said on Sunday. Speaking to ANI, AI spokesperson Dhananjay Kumar said the national carrier has capped fares at Rs 9500 after Jammu and Kashmir administration on Friday issued a security advisory for tourists and Amarnath Yatris asking them to leave the Valley immediately citing security concerns. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has advised airlines to rein in surging airfares for pilgrims returning from Amarnath Yatra. Airfares for flights from Srinagar over the weekend shot up to abnormally high levels following the security advisory for tourists and pilgrims. For a one-way direct flight from Srinagar to Delhi, even low-cost airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir and AirAsia charged between Rs 10,000 to Rs 22,000, according to travel portals, as against around Rs 3,000. Similarly, from Srinagar to Jammu, flight rates on Saturday were Rs 16,000. Other places like Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Jaipur also witnessed a jump in airfares ranging between Rs 10,000 to Rs 19,000. Web portals of several airlines with flights from Srinagar on Saturday and Sunday showed that virtually all seats were sold out. The advisory to Amarnath Yatris was issued after it was announced in a joint press conference of the Army and police forces in Srinagar that weapons and ammunition were recovered in the Amarnath Yatra route. They also said terrorists from Pakistan were planning to launch an attack on Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, based on credible inputs. In view of the additional rush of passengers, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had on Friday asked Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar to fly out Amarnath Yatris and tourists from the Valley. Soon after DGCA's directions, airlines made announcements to give a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all its flights to/from Srinagar.

Air India caps fares of flights to and from Srinagar till August 15

flights

Flights, News on Flights, stories on Flights, articles on Flights, Flights stories at Wion, Flights news, Flights latest news