Akasa Air Takes Flight; Nod for International Operations to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar

In a groundbreaking move, Akasa Air has received the government’s approval to extend its flight operations beyond India’s borders, signaling the airline’s entry into the international market. The destinations initially granted are Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar, heralding a new era for this low-cost carrier. This development aligns with India’s modified 0/20 rule, facilitating international flights once an airline possesses a minimum of 20 aircraft in its fleet without any time-based constraints, a shift from the previous 5/20 rule. However, a notable challenge for Akasa Air lies in securing access to destinations like Dubai, where existing bilateral agreements have nearly been exhausted, underscoring the intricacies of international aviation regulations. The airline’s upcoming journey abroad will undoubtedly shape its role in the global aviation landscape.
Emirates warns Omicron could cause ‘significant traumas’ for aviation industry

A major hit to the peak December travel season because of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus would cause “significant traumas” in the global aviation business, Emirates airline President Tim Clark said on Tuesday.
EXCLUSIVE New Saudi airline plan takes aim at Emirates, Qatar Airways

Saudi Arabia plans to target international transit passenger traffic with its new national airline, going head-to-head with Emirates and Qatar Airways and revving up regional competition.
Qatar Airways halts A350 deliveries after jet surface problem

Qatar Airways said on Tuesday the surface below the paint on some of its Airbus (AIR.PA) A350s was deteriorating faster than expected and insisted it would not take more deliveries of the carbon-composite widebody jet until the problem was resolved.
U.S. House panel discusses low-carbon fuel with airline, biofuel industries

Members of a U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee met on Tuesday with representatives from the biofuels and airline industries to discuss ways to expand production of low-carbon aviation fuel, the subcommittee chair told Reuters. The meeting is part of a broader push by lawmakers to advance climate and energy legislation amid calls by U.S. President […]