Airlines

American Airlines Apologizes To Two Caribbean Prime Ministers Over Guyana Incident

American Airlines has issued a “sincere apology” to Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and his counterpart, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, after they became the latest high-level officials to be affected by the airline’s policy on leaving Guyana earlier this month.

The airline refused to let the two prime ministers check in through the VIP Lounge at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, according to the Guyana Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two leaders were in Georgetown for the 2023 International Energy Conference and Exhibition (CJIA).

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The Guyana government had previously raised objections to American Airlines‘ stance against its own high-ranking government personnel, according to the Foreign Ministry, but to no effect.

The two prime ministers received letters from American Airlines’ Robert Wirick, the company’s managing director of international government affairs, on February 20. In the letters, Wirick expressed his “sincere regret for not promptly approving the request for expedited treatment and the inconvenience caused during your departure from Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport” (CJIA).

After flying from Guyana to Miami to connect with a trip to The Bahamas for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) meeting, he wrote, “We deeply apologize that we fell short of your expectations.” American holds your connection with the people of Trinidad & Tobago in the highest regard. We’ll work hard to make sure all of your next flights with us are enjoyable and go above and beyond your expectations. American takes pride in giving our customers the respect and service they deserve. Please don’t be hesitant to get contact with me if you have any queries or issues,” Wirick wrote in the letter.

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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.