Airlines

Man flies alone on Jet2 flight for $162, calls experience “surreal”

Man flies alone on Jet2 flight for Rs 13,000, calls experience "surreal"

A UK guy was astonished when he discovered that he was the only traveler on his Jet2 travel from Portugal to Northern Ireland. Paul Wilkinson, 65, was on his way to visit his family, but when he noticed that there was no line at the airport entrance, he became apprehensive.

He asked if the aircraft had been delayed or canceled, but was told he was the only person on board and was being treated as a “VIP guest” by the stewards. Wilkinson described the experience as “surreal” and “like his own private jet,” saying that at first, he assumed they were making fun of him but soon realized he had the entire plane to himself.

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The flight attendants referred to him as “King Paul” and gave him special access to a safety presentation, letting him pick his own seat and have a conversation with the captain prior to takeoff.

Wilkinson also passed through passport control without incident and promptly retrieved his luggage at the end of the three-hour trip. The passport check employees were surprised to see him as he was the only passenger to leave the aircraft. They were surprised, but they cheerfully processed his paperwork.

He paid only $162 for the entire trip (about Rs. 13,000), which is nothing compared to the price of a private plane, which he was informed goes for about £28,000. Jet2 also offered their perspective on the unusual circumstances, adding that they were thrilled to host Paul Wilkinson and that he had the opportunity to enjoy their renowned VIP service.

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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.