Aviation

Fly Easy, Pay Less: Air India Express Rolls Out ‘Xpress Lite’ Fares

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Air India Express, a subsidiary of the Tata Group-owned Air India, has unveiled a new offering targeted at budget-conscious travelers: ‘Xpress Lite’ fares.

By choosing to travel without checking in baggage, customers can take advantage of cheaper ticket costs. With this recent announcement, travelers will be able to schedule their flights with more flexibility and at a lower cost.

Through the ‘Xpress Lite’ program, travelers can take advantage of fares that are less expensive than standard ones. Complementing this service is “Xpress Check-In,” a function that allows passengers to skip lines at baggage belts and check-in counters, thereby expediting the boarding procedure. Furthermore, travelers who choose “Xpress Lite” prices will be given a free 3-kilogram cabin luggage allowance.

To ensure optimal convenience and flexibility for travelers, customers can also take advantage of drastically lower pricing if they prefer to pre-book additional check-in luggage allowances of 15 kg or 20 kg.

Ankur Garg, Chief Commercial Officer of Air India Express, expressed optimism about the launch of ‘Xpress Lite’ fares, envisioning it as a new standard for air travel in India. He highlighted the popularity of similar propositions among flyers globally, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to offering best-in-class services and frictionless journeys for travelers.

Overall, Air India Express’s introduction of ‘Xpress Lite’ fares reflects a strategic move to cater to the diverse needs of travelers while maintaining affordability and quality service.

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.