Aviation
Boeing’s newest widebody jet 777-9 to make debut at Wings India 2024
In a momentous event for aviation enthusiasts and industry stakeholders, Boeing, the renowned American aircraft manufacturer, is poised to unveil its latest widebody aircraft.The 777-9, at the highly anticipated Wings India 2024 in Hyderabad from January 18 to 21.
The majestic 777-9 is scheduled to touch down in Hyderabad on January 16, setting the stage for an immersive experience for attendees as it takes center stage for static display on January 18 and 19.
The unveiling holds special significance for Air India, which is set to receive ten of these state-of-the-art 777-9s. This acquisition is part of the airline’s substantial order placed in 2023, strategically designed to fortify its fleet and cater to the escalating demand for international air travel in the rapidly expanding South Asian market, as highlighted in Boeing’s press release.
Wings India 2024 promises an immersive experience for attendees, as Boeing plans to showcase the 777X passenger interior in an engaging display. Additionally, the newly merged Air India Express will take center stage with static and flying displays of its 737-8, featuring a captivating Kalamkari-inspired tail design, paying homage to the traditional weaving patterns of the Deccan region.
Boeing’s commitment to India goes beyond the showcase of its latest aircraft. The company has entered into a partnership with GMR Aero Technic to establish a Boeing Converted Freighter line in Hyderabad. This strategic move aligns with Boeing’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure and pilot training programs in India, with a substantial $100 million investment. This initiative is poised to support the country’s burgeoning demand for skilled pilots over the next two decades, underlining Boeing’s long-term vision for aviation growth in India.
Aviation
SpiceJet to Reintroduce Seaplane Routes in 2025
In a major development for regional connectivity and tourism, Indian low-cost carrier SpiceJet has announced its plans to relaunch its seaplane services in 2025. As reported by News18.
This ambitious initiative marks the airline’s return to seaplane operations after a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and it aims to improve access to some of India’s most remote and underserved regions.
The announcement was made in November 2024 by SpiceJet’s Chairman and Managing Director, spicejet ajay singh, during a demonstration flight from Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada to the Srisailam Dam. The event was attended by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu.
As part of this effort, SpiceJet has partnered with De Havilland for the trials and is providing crucial engineering, technical, and logistical support.
SpiceJet has been granted rights to operate seaplane services on 20 routes, including key destinations such as Lakshadweep, Hyderabad, Guwahati, and Shillong. The airline is now preparing to roll out services on these routes as soon as the necessary infrastructure is in place.
The airline originally pioneered India’s first scheduled seaplane service in October 2020, connecting the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad with the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat. However, the operations were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, spicejet is poised to resume this innovative mode of transport, continuing its commitment to the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which aims to make air travel more accessible to the masses.
SpiceJet’s CEO highlighted the role of seaplane services in bridging transportation gaps, particularly in areas that have limited access to conventional air travel. The upcoming resumption of seaplane operations is seen as a significant step forward in making travel to remote destinations more affordable and accessible.
Additionally, the airline sees potential for these services to support tourism, as well as provide a reliable transportation option during emergencies, such as natural disasters when land-based access is compromised.
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