Airlines

Virgin sues Alaska Airlines for $160m in trademark dispute

Virgin Group is suing Alaska Airlines for $160 million

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Due to a disagreement on the use of the business’ trademarks during its merger with Virgin America, Virgin Group is suing Alaska Airlines for $160 million. At a stated price of $2.6 billion, Alaska Airlines merged with Virgin America in 2016. Alaska reportedly had to pay $8 million in annual royalties through 2039.

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They argue that they are no longer required to pay Virgin because Alaska no longer utilizes the Virgin name. According to Virgin, Alaska is still obligated to make yearly payments. Alaska must pay the minimal royalty as a debt in exchange for being allowed to use the Virgin trademark, Virgin lawyer Daniel Toledano stated, regardless of whether and to what extent Alaska actually uses the Virgin trademark.

Weisselberg further contends that due to protections put in place in 2007 to allow the airline to operate “completely unbranded from Virgin,” Alaska is protected from further payments to Virgin.

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Regardless of how Alaska Airlines operates its own business following the merger, Virgin wants the money they claim to be entitled. If Alaska has the measures in place to keep them from having to make those payments, they also have a good case, especially in light of the fact that the Virgin America name is no longer in use.

The time between now and 2039, though, is quite a minefield because if such an arrangement were signed, Alaska would have to start paying Virgin by that date. Of course, it makes sense that this issue ended up in court, as an impartial arbitrator is required to render a particular judgment based on the law.

It is heading to court because both sides have compelling arguments. The judge’s work is made a little more challenging in this sense because it is unknown who will win. The judge will probably be able to make an intelligent judgment.

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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.