Airlines

This U.S. airline offers free ‘Mickey Mouse’ goodies for kids

Alaska Airlines‘ newest, one-of-a-kind aircraft will take to the skies today, complete with a touch of fascination from everyone’s favorite chum, Mickey Mouse.

Following the unveiling of this specially decorated plane at a Seattle gate ceremony, passengers will board the inaugural flight to Orange County, Calif., to see “The Happiest Place on Earth” at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim. The famed plane, dubbed “Mickey’s Toontown Express,” is already flying on routes throughout Alaska’s network.

Have you ever received such a *cute* welcome when boarding an aircraft? 😍✈️

By @BDFphotography @AlaskaAir @AlaskaAirNews @Disneyland #Disneyland pic.twitter.com/CKO3tf5vfo
— Airways Magazine (@airwaysmagazine) November 1, 2023

The Boeing 737-800, tail number 565AS, is Alaska Airlines‘ ninth livery in conjunction with Disneyland Resort, featuring amusing pictures of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, as well as their companions Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck in Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Park.

It took artists over 400 hours and 20 days to hand-paint the brilliantly colored aircraft exterior from nose to tail for the unusual design, which even incorporates Chip ‘n’ Dale on the boarding doors and winglets.

Alaska Airlines and Disney sent a number of families and special guests on the inaugural flight to experience Alaska’s everyday level of care before leaving for Orange County, knowing the joy the Disneyland Resort-themed planes can bring to families.

This included priority boarding for families with children under two, family seating at no additional cost, colouring books, and the well-liked Kids’ Choice Picnic Pack and Jetsetter’s Jam Sandwich for guests flying in Premium and Main Cabins. While supplies last, the “Mickey’s Toontown Express” aircraft will have activity books and snack packs featuring Mickey Mouse and friends on board.

The animated neighborhood Mickey’s Toontown in Disneyland Park serves as the inspiration for the plane’s exterior artwork. It is a whimsical and reimagined place where families can explore, play, discover, and unwind together while enjoying new interactive experiences, beloved favorites, and the recently opened Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.

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.

This country tops visa rejections in the popular Schengen countries

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.

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

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.