Aviation

Aer Lingus scraps free blankets on cheapest fares

Airlines are no strangers to cost cutting. Besides squeezing in as many seats as possible, cutting down on meals, and adding fees for everything from gate-checked bags to in-flight entertainment, it seems like nothing is off the table when it comes to airlines saving money.

Starting in October, Aer Lingus, Irish sister-company to U.K. based airline British Airways, will officially remove these complimentary luxuries for passengers flying on cheaper fares from Dublin to North American destinations, according to the Independent.

The new “Saver” fare is a no-frills way of flying, like the “basic economy” fares recently introduced by major U.S. airlines.

Passengers who choose Aer Lingus’ saver option will need to bring their own headphones, and should definitely wear a sweater. The option also does not allow passengers to select a seat in advance and check in a bag for free. Plus, only one, maximum 22-pound piece of carry-on baggage is allowed.

However, the new option saves travelers about €40 ($47 USD) each way. And there’s still an in-flight meal.

In the event a “Saver” passenger does need a blanket or headphones, they will be available for purchase for €3 (about $3.50 USD) and €5 (About $6 USD) each, respectively.

A representative of Aer Lingus told the Independent that the new option is “designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s traveler, Saver is here to offer more choice and flexibility.”

The new, cheaper fare options are a result of direct competition with other budget transatlantic airlines like WOW Air and Norwegian.

And Aer Lingus isn’t the only airline making changes because of new, super-cheap fares between the U.S. and Europe: American Airlines could offer a no-frills transatlantic fare as early as next year. So while this is an announcement by one airline today, don’t be surprised if everything that used to come with a long flight — checked bags, food, entertainment, maybe even an alcoholic beverage — suddenly costs extra.

Courtesy : travelandleisure

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.