Airlines

Biden says airlines can’t treat kids like ‘piece of baggage’

On Tuesday, President Joe Biden sharply criticized U.S. airlines, alleging that they were imposing unfair fees to families, and vowed to introduce new consumer protections.

Biden remarked in his State of the Union address, “We’ll prohibit airlines from charging $50 roundtrip for families just to be able to sit together.” Baggage costs are already a problem; airlines shouldn’t treat your child like a piece of luggage.

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The association Airlines for America (A4A), which includes Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and others, said on Tuesday that none of its member airlines charge more for companion seating.

Biden praised the rules that the Transportation Department is creating to require “airlines to display you the full ticket price upfront and refund your money if your flight is canceled or delayed.” After a string of problems, including a holiday meltdown at Southwest that forced the cancellation of more than 16,000 flights, there are mounting calls in Congress for airlines to strengthen consumer rights.

US lawmakers have proposed broad legislation that would require airline passengers to receive refunds for delayed flights, prohibit further shrinking of plane seat sizes, and give consumers new rights to sue airlines for unfair practices.

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Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

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To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

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In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.