Airlines

IndiGo announces 21 additional flights in winter schedule for 2022-23

IndiGo strengthens connectivity from Kolkata

As part of its winter schedule for 2022–2023, IndiGo, India’s top airline, has introduced 21 new flights in keeping with its objective to improve regional connectivity. Flights from Hyderabad and Kolkata to coastal resorts including Port Blair, Kochi, and Goa, respectively, started operating on December 9, 2022. To meet the rising demand and increase accessibility in the area, several seasonal additions are being implemented.

IndiGo to operate widebody aircraft this winter(Opens in a new browser tab)

Mr. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo said, “We are witnessing high traffic demand which is enabling the industry’s recovery. As beach destinations are in high demand from October to February, these new flights will increase direct connectivity from Hyderabad and Kolkata to Port Blair, Kochi, and Goa respectively. Our winter schedule flights will add capacity and make travel affordable, while offering more options to customers. We will continue to uphold our promise of providing a courteous, on-time, hassle-free, and affordable travel experience.”

IndiGo strengthens international connectivity with direct flights between Mumbai and Istanbul(Opens in a new browser tab)

The new flights are designed to cater to travellers who are constantly on the lookout for new and affordable flying options to access destinations which help in building businesses and are known for their tourist attractions. Customers who wish to plan their travel can book tickets via official website. The introduction of these flights will further bolster the domestic connectivity.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.