Airlines

Akasa Air Surprises its Competitors with Massive Aircraft Orders and Stock Market Plans

India's Akasa Air nears order for 150 Boeing jets - report

Akasa Air is currently dealing with a pilot shortage, which has impacted its flying operations significantly. Vinay Dube, the airline’s founder and CEO, stated that they have been actively raising their pilot numbers to address this issue. They had 330 pilots in April, and they now have almost 450 pilots.

Furthermore, 125-130 more pilots have contractually committed to joining the airline in the next 3-4 months, bringing their total pilot count to around 600 in the coming months. Akasa Air is making a proactive effort to hire ahead of time based on their needs, and their standard growth plan is being implemented, displaying their long-term vision for the company.

In addition to addressing their pilot shortage, Akasa Air has secured government approval to expand its overseas operations to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. However, they will have to wait before starting flights to destinations in the United Arab Emirates, such as Dubai, because all possible bilateral agreements for this region have been exhausted.

Akasa Air also intends to go public before the end of the decade. The airline, which is only 14 months founded but already runs more than 750 weekly flights to 16 domestic locations, wants to gain more history and operating experience before conducting an initial public offering (IPO).

They have placed a large order for 76 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which will be added to their fleet by mid-2027. They now have a fleet of 20 aircraft, and they want to place an order for more aircraft in the three-digit range by the end of 2023 and listing on stock exchanges. Akasa Air’s ambition is to become a key participant in the Indian aviation business, with a strong local and international network and several operational bases.

While an IPO listing is something the company intends, Vinay Dube stated that it may not happen by 2027, and that they may need to accumulate more operational experience before proceeding with a listing. Nonetheless, it remains a priority for the airline’s future.

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Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.