Airlines

Spirit Airlines Takes Home Prestigious ‘Value Airline of the Year’ Award from ATW

Spirit Airlines’ efforts to redefine ultra-low-fare travel are getting recognized on the global stage. Aviation Week Network’s Air Transport World (ATW) named Spirit Airlines the Value Airline of the Year as part of the ATW 2023 Airline Industry Achievement Awards.

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The ATW Airline Industry Achievement Awards were established in 1974 to recognize excellence across a broad range of airline operations. They are bestowed upon individuals and organizations that have distinguished themselves through outstanding performance, innovation and superior service. Winners are selected by a panel of editors and analysts at ATW, Routes, Aviation Week and CAPA, and the award will be presented to Spirit Airlines at an awards ceremony on June 2 prior to IATA Annual General Meeting.

Spirit’s commitment to Invest In The Guest entails a number of initiatives aimed at delivering the best value in the sky. Below are recent examples:

Spirit continues to introduce new cabin enhancements that boost comfort while maintaining its industry-leading commitment to affordable travel. Spirit completed a major cabin refresh in 2019, and starting in April 2023, Spirit is introducing wider seats with more cushion and new headrests. The seats come with an environmental benefit as well with a decrease of nearly 11 ounces per seat thanks to advances in materials and seat frame technology.
Spirit’s Fit Fleet® is one of the most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry. In Q2 2023, Spirit expects to receive its 200th Airbus delivery, and the airline also plans to accept its first A321neo. Additionally, Spirit recently announced an agreement with Pratt & Whitney for PW1100G-JM engines to power its latest order of new Airbus A320neo Family aircraft. The GTF engine has demonstrated its promised ability to reduce fuel burn and carbon emissions by 16 percent on A320neo Family aircraft, reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 50 percent compared to the regulatory standard, and reduce the noise footprint by 75 percent.
In a groundbreaking moment for ultra-low-fare airlines, Spirit Guests can now binge their favorite shows via Spirit Wi-Fi on flights operated by its Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. The major milestone marks the first time a U.S.-based ultra-low-fare airline has offered high-speed Wi-Fi for a true broadband experience in the air.
Spirit completed major investments throughout its operation while it prepares for future growth. In 2022, Spirit added another large aircraft maintenance facility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with two aircraft bays and ramp space for up to four aircraft. Additionally, Spirit launched new crew bases in Miami, Atlanta & Houston to continue strengthening its operation. Major investments in technology continue to strengthen and evolve Spirit’s systems and increase automation for greater efficiency.

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.