Airlines

Qatar Citizens Can Travel to the United States Without a Visa

In a significant development for international travel, Qatar has become the second Muslim-majority country to gain admission into the United States’ Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Announced on Wednesday by the U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security, this achievement allows Qatari citizens to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business purposes without the need for a visa, effective no later than December 1, 2024.

The decision to admit Qatar into the VWP is based on the nation meeting strict eligibility criteria, which include maintaining a low visa refusal rate, minimizing visa overstays, and ensuring reciprocal visa-free access for American travelers.

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Currently, U.S. citizens can visit qatar for up to 30 days without a visa, and this will be expanded to 90 days starting October 1, 2024, for Americans who meet specific requirements, including having a valid passport and confirmed hotel booking.

The VWP is designed to enhance security partnerships between the U.S. and participating countries. To qualify, nations must fulfill rigorous standards concerning counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security, and border management.

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Specifically, a nonimmigrant visa refusal rate must be below 3%, secure travel documents must be issued, and reciprocal entry privileges must be extended to all U.S. citizens regardless of their national origin, religion, ethnicity, or gender. qatar air line has demonstrated a comprehensive commitment to these standards by collaborating with the U.S. on information sharing regarding terrorism and serious crimes.

Qatari travelers will apply for travel authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) via an online application or mobile app, which will soon be updated to include Qatar. These travel authorizations are typically valid for two years. Meanwhile, those with existing B-1/B-2 visas can continue to use them for travel to the U.S.

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.