Airlines

SIA to Invest ₹3,195 Crore in Air India Following Vistara Merger

In a significant move to bolster its presence in India’s aviation market, Singapore Airlines (SIA) announced an additional investment of ₹3,194.5 crore in Air India following the merger with Vistara, scheduled to be completed by November 2024.

Before the merger, SIA and Tata held a 49% and 51% stake, respectively, in Vistara, while Air India was fully owned by Tata Group.

This merger will unite Air India and Vistara, creating a strong player in the Indian aviation industry with a significant share across domestic, international, full-service, and low-cost travel segments. With the completion of the merger, Singapore Airlines will maintain its 25.1% stake in Air India.

The ₹3,194.5 crore investment will be made through the subscription of new shares in Air India, and will cover Tata’s previous funding contributions to the airline.

This capital infusion is part of SIA’s commitment to the success of the newly merged entity and is expected to strengthen its multi-hub strategy, reinforcing its footprint in India’s fast-growing aviation market.

In addition to the financial support, SIA and Air India recently expanded their codeshare agreement, which will add 11 Indian cities and 40 international destinations to their shared network.

The collaboration marks a new chapter in the evolution of both airlines, enabling them to better compete in the dynamic Indian market.

SIA’s additional capital will enable Air India to continue its growth trajectory and further enhance its competitiveness in the global airline industry. The continued investment will be evaluated based on the airline’s future needs and funding options.

As the merged entity takes shape, it is poised to provide enhanced connectivity for travelers, while positioning Air India as a more formidable competitor on the international stage.

Airlines

Air India Unveils New Changes to HALAL Meat in Inflight Meals

A 17-yr boy was arrested for making a hoax bomb threat, causing multiple flight diversions and delays.

Air India has introduced significant changes to its inflight meal policy, particularly regarding halal-certified non-vegetarian meals, in response to the diverse dietary preferences of its passengers.

Effective from Sunday, November 10, the airline announced that it will no longer provide halal-certified non-vegetarian meals for Hindu and Sikh passengers. Instead, passengers can pre-book a Muslim Meal (MOML), which will still be halal-certified, ensuring that those who specifically request halal options can continue to receive them.

Apply Now: British Airways Opens 2024 Graduate and Apprenticeship Schemes

The decision to adjust the meal offerings reflects Air India’s commitment to accommodating the various dietary needs of its diverse passenger base.

Under the new policy, the air india food menu will introduce non-halal non-vegetarian meal options, alongside its existing “Hindu Meal” that excludes beef and pork. This move is designed to cater to the dietary requirements of different faith groups while maintaining respect for their religious practices.

The announcement has been widely appreciated by many Hindu and Sikh passengers, who view the decision as a respectful gesture towards their cultural and religious traditions.

Etihad Airways Rolls Out Advanced Features on Digital Platforms

By discontinuing halal-certified meals for Hindus and Sikhs, Air India is seen as addressing the growing demand for more inclusive meal options.

This shift is also seen as a stand against the so-called “halal mafia,” which some believe has influenced meal policies on airlines in India.

In a press release, air india plane further clarified the details of the new meal offerings. “MOML (Muslim Meal): Pre-booked meals labeled with a ‘MOML’ sticker are considered special meals (SPML),” the airline explained.

“A Halal Certificate will be provided only for the pre-booked MOML meal. All meals on flights to Saudi Arabia will remain halal-certified, with a Halal Certificate available for sectors to Jeddah, Dammam, Riyadh, and Medina, including Haj flights.”