Aviation

FlySafair blazes trail with new aviation innovation

FlySafair blazes trail with new aviation innovation

Johannesburg, 1 April 2018. South African low-cost carrier, FlySafair, has today unveiled a new innovation that is sure to take global aviation by storm. FlySafair has been widely commended for having changed the South African domestic aviation industry for the better.

Since launching in October 2014, the airline has managed to reduce fares on some routes by as much as 32% and has been rated the most on-time airline in the world for two consecutive seasons by international aviation data company, OAG.

The airline has also been recognised as a true innovator, having been the first to launch a fully-responsive website to optimise the mobile sales experience, as well as the first in South Africa to accept credit card payments for catering purchases during flight. But FlySafair clearly isn’t done yet.

“This latest innovation is very exciting to us, because it not only helps us to provide better service for our customers, but it also puts a truly South African mark on the face of global aviation,” says Kirby Gordon, Head of Silliness and Distraction at FlySafair.

“Keeping our costs as low as possible has always been a key focus for us and this solution was right in front of us all along. Like literally right in front of us – attached to the Fortuner on the R24 heading to the airport,” says Gordon.

In a bid to reduce weight on board from luggage, the airline has partnered with aviation engineering company, VentertjieVlieg, to develop an aircraft trailer that can be hitched to Boeing 737 aircraft. Inspired by the iconic South African Venter Trailer and complete with wings and a vertical stabiliser, the trailer allows for luggage to be removed from the aircraft hold and placed in the trailer, effectively reducing the load on the aircraft.

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.