Aviation

A plane’s door flew open during takeoff, raining gold and silver over 16 miles of Siberia

One of the coldest regions of the world saw some rain Thursday — a shower of silver and gold, that is.

A plane carrying 9.3 tons of precious metals lost part of its cargo Thursday as it was taking off from the Yakutsk Airport in Siberia, scattering treasure across the runway as it gained height. Gold bars fell out of the Nimbus Airlines Antonov AN-12 cargo plane for as far as 16 miles from the airport, according to the Siberian Times.

The plane had been taking off after refueling at the airport when its cargo door flew open. At least 3.4 tons of doré bars — semi-pure alloys of silver and gold — came tumbling out, according to the Tass news agency. The precious metals had come from the Kupol mine in Russia’s Chukotka region, and in total weighed about 18,600 pounds.

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.

This country tops visa rejections in the popular Schengen countries

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.

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

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.