Airlines

Air India Resumes Non-Stop Delhi-Zurich Route After 25 Years

After a prolonged absence, Air India is set to make a comeback at Zurich Airport with the launch of its non-stop service between Delhi and Zurich.

This move not only marks the airline’s reentry into Switzerland but also expands its presence in mainland Europe to seven cities, reaffirming its commitment to global connectivity. According to an official press release, Air India will deploy its two-class configured Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft for the Delhi-Zurich route.

Operating four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, the flights aim to cater to both business and leisure travelers. The modern Boeing 787-8, equipped with 256 seats, promises a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers.

Flight schedules have been strategically designed to accommodate diverse travel needs. Departing from Zurich at 8:50 pm, the aircraft arrives in New Delhi at 08:05 am the following day, facilitating convenient connections for travelers. Conversely, flights depart from New Delhi at 2:05 pm, landing in Zurich at 7:15 pm, offering seamless travel options for both inbound and outbound passengers.

Air India’s return to Zurich comes after a hiatus of nearly three decades since its last scheduled services to the Swiss city in 1997. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, expressed enthusiasm about the new route, highlighting its significance in strengthening bilateral ties between India and Switzerland.

Wilson emphasized the robust economic relationship between the two countries, with numerous Swiss companies operating in India, Indian companies in Switzerland, and a thriving Indian diaspora.

It’s worth noting that Air India‘s entry into Switzerland complements the existing connectivity provided by Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), the home carrier, and Star Alliance partner. SWISS already offers daily flights connecting New Delhi with Zurich, further enhancing travel options between the two nations.

Airlines

Air India Express Aircraft Engine Part Falls Outside Delhi Airport; DGCA Orders Probe

Air India Express flight skids off runway while landing at Kochi airport

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an inquiry following reports that metal fragments were discovered at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport after an Air India Express flight made an emergency landing on Monday evening.

The emergency landing was prompted by a detected engine fault, but fortunately, the landing was executed safely without any injuries to the passengers.

The situation began when crew members of the Air India Express flight reported an engine issue, leading to the emergency landing. The DGCA has confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway and has directed that the aircraft undergo a comprehensive safety inspection.

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The discovery of metal debris outside the airport has raised concerns, prompting the DGCA to probe whether these fragments are linked to the aircraft involved in the emergency landing. Authorities are particularly focused on whether the metal pieces, which were found near the airport, originated from the same Air India Express flight that experienced engine trouble.

While preliminary assessments suggest that the debris could be a broken blade from an aircraft engine, the exact source remains unconfirmed. The airline has yet to verify if the metal fragments are from their aircraft.

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The Delhi Police, working in conjunction with the DGCA, have initiated their own investigation to determine the origin of the metal pieces. A technical team is set to analyze whether the fragments are associated with the aircraft in question. As the investigation continues, a case has been filed with the airport authority to address the matter.