Jyotiraditya Scindia Expresses 'Deep Anguish' to Kerala CM Over Calicut Airport Land Issue Delay

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has expressed "deep anguish" to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan over the state government's delay in providing the required land for having a runway end safety area at Calicut Airport, which witnessed a fatal plane crash in 2020.

Scindia also said that if the land is not provided to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), then the civil aviation ministry will be left with no choice but to proceed with action to curtail the runway length for safe aircraft operations from August. The airport at Calicut, also known as Kozhikode, is operated by AAI.

Following the deadly crash of an Air India Express aircraft on August 7, 2020, at Calicut airport, a central government-appointed expert panel recommended that the state government may be requested to provide filled-up levelled land for the provision of Runway End Safety Area (RESA). The committee had also said that in case the required land is not made available, the runway length should be reduced to provide the required RESA of 240 metres from the ends of the runway strip for undershooting and overshooting of aircraft.

Large aircraft such as A321s and B737s may no longer be allowed to use the Kozhikode airport from August 1, with the civil aviation ministry giving an ultimatum to the Kerala government on the transfer of land that will be used to extend the current runway.

What Scindia Said?

With the required land yet to be handed over to AAI, Scindia has written to Vijayan, expressing "deep anguish regarding the inordinate delay". In a letter written on June 26, Scindia said the ministry has made tireless efforts to expedite the matter but the lack of prompt actions from the state government "leaves us with no recourse". The minister noted that provisioning of RESA would take around three years after the land is handed over to AAI.

"...the ministry is left with no choice but to proceed with the necessary action of curtailing the runway length for the safe aircraft operation at Calicut airport from 01.08.2023 unless the land is handed over to AAI immediately," the letter said.

Scindia also said the state government indicated through its letter on January 19 this year that notification for the acquisition of the land has been issued and that the land would be made available by the first week of July. "However, it has been made to understand that state government will not be in a position to provide the required land before January 2024," the minister said in the letter.

What Happened?

On August 7, 2020, an Air India Express Boeing B737 plane repatriating Indians stranded in Dubai on account of the pandemic overshot the runway in heavy rain and crashed, more than 20 people were killed, including 2 pilots, and several others were injured. There were 190 people onboard the aircraft, coming from Dubai, that overshot the runway at Calicut Airport amid light rain before breaking into pieces. Currently, only narrow-body aircraft are operating at the airport.

The aircraft, with 184 passengers skidded off the table-top runway and broke into two parts after crashing nose-first into the ground. It was the deadliest commercial aviation disaster in the country in 10 years. In its crash report, AAIB said stated the probable cause of the accident was non-adherence to the standard operating procedure, including landing “beyond the touchdown zone” by the pilot flying the aircraft.

Calicut’s Tabletop Runway

A tabletop runway is an airport that is located on the top of a plateau or hill and the end of the runway typically overlooks a deep gorge. These are always difficult from the perspective of landing and take-off because of the restricted space.

The tabletop runways in the country currently include Kozhikode in Kerala, Mangalore in Karnakata, Shimla and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, Lengpui airport in Mizoram and Pakyong in Sikkim. These runways have restricted space and hence landings and take-offs are the most critical periods for the flights from these airports.

One of the challenges of a tabletop runway is that they have limited RESA and hence have no room for errors during landing. Experts say that the tabletop runways create an optical illusion for pilots, thus making the landings tricky. The runway length is currently 2850m.

The AAIB report released on September 2021 stated the probable cause of the accident to be non-adherence to the standard operating procedure by the pilot flying the aircraft. It also noted the role of systemic failures as a contributory factor that could not be overlooked.

The airport is the third busiest airport in Kerala and sees airlines like Air India Express, SpiceJet Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Air Arabia, Etihad Airways, and Fly Dubai operating to/ from the airport.

Anti-trust regulator Competition Commission of India (CCI) has issued a show cause notice to Air India, seeking clarification on why its proposed merger with Vistara should not be investigated over concerns about competition in the aviation sector. Reports mention that the CCI has given Air India 30 days to respond.

Vistara and Air India, two full-service airlines, are part of the Tata Group. Singapore Airlines (SIA) holds a 49% stake in Vistara. In November 2022, the salt-to-software conglomerate announced the merger of Vistara with Air India under a deal wherein SIA will also hold a 25.1% stake in Air India.

As a part of the deal, SIA would pump into INR 2,059 crore in the expanded share capital of Air India for a 25.1% stake. Tata Sons would own the remaining 74.9% stake in the combined entity. The approval for the proposed combination was sought from CCI in April this year. The parties to the combination are Tata Sons Pvt Ltd (TSPL), Air India Ltd, Tata SIA Airlines Ltd (TSAL) and Singapore Airlines Ltd.

Tata Sons and SIA filed a merger application with the CCI in April this year, mentioning that the proposed merger of Vistara with Air India would not alter the competitive landscape or cause any adverse impact on competition in India. They had expressed hope to seal the merger deal by March 2024.

If the deal sees the light of day, it will make Air India the country's largest international carrier and second-largest domestic carrier after IndiGo. In terms of overall domestic passenger numbers, Air India Group had a 25.1% market share in the January-March period of 2023, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. IndiGo, India’s largest airline, had a 55.7% market share in the same period.

The Role of CCI

As per the competition law, the regulator can probe into the matter before giving the green light for a merger or acquisition in case there are concerns about possible anti-competitive practices in the deal. Section 29 of the Competition Act mentions the procedures for the probe of combinations. In CCI parlance, combinations refer to mergers and acquisitions.

"Where the Commission thinks that a combination is likely to cause, or has caused an appreciable adverse effect on competition within the relevant market in India, it shall issue a notice to show cause to the parties to combination calling upon them to respond within thirty days of the receipt of the notice, as to why investigation in respect of such combination should not be conducted," as per the section.

In case, the regulator is not satisfied with the responses, it can go to the second stage wherein the parties will be asked to make the details of the proposed deal public and comments will be sought. Besides, CCI can seek additional information from the parties before taking a final decision on the deal.

There have also been instances where parties to a combination submitted remedial measures to address anti-competitive concerns and after accepting them, CCI has given its conditional approvals. Additionally, the CCI has the authority to request further information from the parties involved before reaching a final decision on the merger.

In November 2013, the CCI approved a proposal by Gulf carrier Etihad to purchase 24% of grounded Jet Airways. The CCI then cited the insignificant increase in market share forecast on India-UAE routes as one of the reasons for the approval.

Challenges Ahead

It is a new challenge for formerly government-owned Air India, which Tata Group took over last year. The Indian airline has ambitious plans to modernise its fleet, operational systems and revenue management. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has flagged that on some routes and categories - such as business class travel - the merged entity could have a monopoly, said one of the two sources, who declined to be named as the matter is confidential.

To address the CCI's concerns, Air India could make concessions such as giving up certain routes or reducing the frequency, the second source said, adding that Air India remains confident the matter can be resolved by recommending certain changes.

The CCI note comes amid growing concerns within the industry about a duopoly, with a merged Air India-Vistara and IndiGo controlling more than 80% of the domestic market as smaller rivals such as SpiceJet and Go First struggle.

The first source said that Vistara and Air India both fly on international routes such as London and Dubai and would need antitrust clearances in other jurisdictions. Air India is expecting similar queries from foreign countries once it applies for clearance there, but the source is waiting for the India process to close first, the source added.

The Tata Group is consolidating its aviation business and merging the four airlines into two. While Air India is being merged with Vistara to create a single full-service carrier, AirAsia India is being merged into Air India Express to create a single low-cost airline under Air India. AirAsia India and Air India Express are completely owned by Tata Sons and these two carriers’ merger got approved by the CCI in June last year.

On June 27, 2023, history was made as Airbus delivered its first aircraft assembled in Tianjin to Wizz Air, a prominent low-cost carrier based in Hungary. This momentous event signifies a significant achievement for both Airbus and the city of Tianjin, highlighting the expanding collaboration between Europe and China in the aerospace industry.

The Role of Tianjin Municipality in Airbus' Expansion

Tianjin, a vibrant metropolis in North China, has emerged as a crucial hub for Airbus' manufacturing operations. With state-of-the-art facilities and a skilled workforce, Tianjin Municipality offers a conducive environment for aerospace innovation and production. The delivery of the A321neo to Wizz Air demonstrates the successful integration of Tianjin into Airbus' global supply chain.

Wizz Air: Empowering Low-Cost Travel in Europe

As Hungary's leading low-cost carrier, Wizz Air has been instrumental in democratizing air travel throughout Europe. By offering affordable fares and a wide range of destinations, Wizz Air has revolutionized the way people explore the continent. The acquisition of the A321neo further strengthens Wizz Air's commitment to enhancing its fleet and providing passengers with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft.

The A321neo: A Technological Marvel

The A321neo represents Airbus' dedication to technological advancements and sustainable aviation. With its enhanced efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved passenger comfort, the A321neo is at the forefront of modern aircraft design. Its state-of-the-art engines and aerodynamic features make it a preferred choice for airlines seeking to optimize their operations while minimizing their environmental impact. The largest member of the A320 series, the A321neo, can carry up to 244 passengers.

Airbus' Final Assembly Line (FAL Asia) in Tianjin

Airbus' Final Assembly Line (FAL Asia) in Tianjin has played a pivotal role in the company's production strategy. This facility undertakes the assembly, testing, and delivery of Airbus A320 family aircraft, catering to the growing demand in the Asia-Pacific region. The successful delivery of the A321neo to Wizz Air showcases the manufacturing excellence and collaborative efforts at FAL Asia. According to Christoph Schrempp, General Manager of Airbus Tianjin Delivery Centre, "The delivery marks a watershed moment for the company." "Against the backdrop of China's robust economic recovery," he added, "FAL Asia has continued to increase its assembling capacity, assisting in meeting the needs of more foreign clients and infusing new momentum into the global aviation sector."

Collaborative Efforts and Manufacturing Excellence

The delivery of an Airbus aircraft involves the combined efforts of a global network of suppliers, engineers, and skilled workers. This collaborative approach ensures the highest standards of quality and safety throughout the manufacturing process. The remarkable achievement of delivering an aircraft assembled in Tianjin exemplifies the manufacturing excellence upheld by Airbus and its partners.

The Significance of the European Customer's Choice

As a European customer, Wizz Air's decision to procure an aircraft assembled in Tianjin is of immense significance. It demonstrates the confidence that European airlines place in the manufacturing capabilities and craftsmanship of Airbus' facilities worldwide. The delivery of the A321neo marks a new chapter in the relationship between Wizz Air and Airbus, further fostering their partnership for future endeavors.

Implications for Wizz Air's Fleet Expansion

Wizz Air's acquisition of the A321neo is a testament to the airline's ambitious growth plans. With its increased capacity and range, the A321neo enables Wizz Air to explore new markets and expand its operations. The advanced technology and operational efficiency of the aircraft empower Wizz Air to offer more routes and improved services to its ever-growing customer base.

Strengthening Airbus' Global Presence

Airbus' delivery of an aircraft assembled in Tianjin signifies the company's commitment to expanding its global footprint. By strategically locating assembly facilities around the world, Airbus can cater to regional demands and forge stronger partnerships with local aviation stakeholders. The successful delivery to Wizz Air underscores Airbus' position as a leading aircraft manufacturer with a truly global presence.

Enhancing China's Aerospace Industry

China's aerospace industry has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with Tianjin playing a pivotal role in this advancement. The delivery of the A321neo assembled in Tianjin showcases China's expanding capabilities in aircraft manufacturing and positions the country as a key player in the global aerospace market. This achievement bolsters China's ambition to become a technological powerhouse in the aviation sector.

Promoting Sustainable Aviation with the A321neo

The A321neo embodies Airbus' commitment to sustainable aviation practices. Through innovative technologies and design improvements, the A321neo reduces fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to a greener aviation industry. Wizz Air's adoption of the A321neo underscores its dedication to operating a modern and environmentally friendly fleet.

Looking Ahead: Future Prospects and Innovations

As Airbus and Wizz Air continue to push the boundaries of aviation, exciting prospects and innovations lie ahead. From advanced materials and propulsion systems to enhanced passenger experiences, the industry will witness continuous advancements. Collaborative efforts between Airbus and Wizz Air, fueled by their shared vision for the future, will drive the next generation of aircraft and shape the way we travel.

Conclusion

The delivery of an Airbus A321neo assembled in Tianjin to Wizz Air marks a historic achievement for both parties involved. It represents the culmination of collaborative efforts, manufacturing excellence, and a commitment to sustainable aviation practices. With this significant milestone, Airbus reinforces its global presence, while Wizz Air strengthens its fleet and expands its low-cost travel offerings. This achievement stands as a testament to the innovation and dedication propelling the aerospace industry forward.

With Inputs from Xinhua

Virgin Australia, a renowned airline operating in the Australian aviation industry, has recently celebrated a significant milestone with the delivery of its first new-generation Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. This momentous occasion marks a crucial step in Virgin Australia's ongoing transformation and underscores its commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience to passengers.

The Boeing 737 MAX: A New Era of Aviation

The Boeing 737 MAX represents the latest evolution in aircraft technology, bringing numerous advancements that revolutionize air travel. Designed with passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability in mind, the 737 MAX family introduces cutting-edge features that enhance the overall flying experience.

Virgin Australia's Transformation Strategy

In December 2020, Virgin Australia made a strategic decision to restructure its aircraft order, aligning its fleet expansion plans with the industry's changing landscape. This move allowed the airline to adapt to shifting passenger demands, optimize operational efficiency, and maintain a competitive edge in the market. The delivery of the first Boeing 737-8 aircraft signifies a critical milestone in Virgin Australia's transformation journey. The aircraft is being leased to Virgin Australia by China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC), a prominent global aircraft lessor.

"It is great to work with Boeing and Virgin Australia on the successful delivery of the 737-8," remarked Winnie Liu, Executive Director, Deputy CEO, and CCO of CALC. The arrival of the first 737-8 not only represents a watershed moment in CALC's history as the first aircraft type in our fleet, but it also boasts unsurpassed fuel economy and lends great support to the airline's sustainable fleet optimisation programme. CALC has made significant investments in cutting-edge technology aircraft types, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and green fleet solutions. We will continue to develop energy-efficient aircraft models and work with all aviation partners to achieve net zero emissions by 2050."

Enhanced Passenger Experience

One of the key objectives of Virgin Australia's fleet renewal is to provide passengers with a superior travel experience. The Boeing 737 MAX family offers a range of features designed to enhance passenger comfort and convenience. From spacious cabins and ergonomic seating to improved overhead storage and larger windows, the MAX aircraft ensures a more pleasant and enjoyable journey for passengers.

Fuel Efficiency and Sustainability

As the aviation industry continues to prioritize environmental sustainability, Virgin Australia's adoption of the Boeing 737 MAX is a testament to its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. The MAX aircraft boasts advanced fuel-efficient engines, aerodynamic improvements, and optimized flight systems, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. By embracing these eco-friendly aircraft, Virgin Australia contributes to global efforts aimed at achieving a more sustainable future for aviation.

Safety and Technology Features

Safety remains a top priority in the airline industry, and Virgin Australia's selection of the Boeing 737 MAX underscores its dedication to passenger well-being. The MAX family incorporates state-of-the-art safety features, including advanced avionics, enhanced sensors, and an upgraded flight control system. These technologies work in harmony to provide pilots with comprehensive situational awareness and ensure a safe and secure flight experience.

Fleet Expansion and Operational Advantages

Virgin Australia's acquisition of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft signifies a significant expansion of its fleet, enabling the airline to meet growing passenger demands and expand its route network. With its fuel-efficient engines and increased range, the 737 MAX offers operational advantages by enabling non-stop flights to new destinations and enhancing overall operational flexibility. This expansion aligns with Virgin Australia's long-term growth strategy and strengthens its position as a leading player in the aviation industry.

Collaboration with Boeing: A Shared Vision

The delivery of the first new-generation Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to Virgin Australia highlights the fruitful collaboration between the airline and Boeing. Both organizations share a common vision of transforming the travel experience and driving innovation within the aviation sector. Through this collaboration, Virgin Australia can leverage Boeing's expertise in aircraft design and manufacturing, ensuring the delivery of world-class aircraft to its passengers.

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The new MAX family aircraft, according to Virgin Australia Chief Operations Officer Stuart Aggs, are a vital component of the airline's transition, providing not just a more luxurious experience to customers but also forming the backbone of Virgin Australia's decarbonization aspirations. "These new aircraft will enable us to increase capacity while also supporting more efficient jet services," he added. "Most importantly, they will reduce emissions by at least 15% per flight when compared to the 737-800 NG fleet, supporting our commitment to net zero emissions by 2050."

"Operating younger, more fuel-efficient 737-8 aircraft will support Virgin Australia in taking key steps towards meeting its sustainability goals while providing passengers with enhanced comfort and a more enjoyable flying experience," said Erika Pearson, Boeing Vice President, Commercial Sales and Marketing, Southeast Asia, and Oceania.

Conclusion

Virgin Australia's acceptance of the first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft marks a significant milestone in its ongoing transformation journey. This strategic move not only enhances the airline's operational capabilities but also elevates the overall passenger experience. With a renewed focus on passenger comfort, fuel efficiency, and sustainability, Virgin Australia positions itself as a forward-thinking airline that embraces the latest advancements in aviation technology.

With Inputs from Virgin Australia

Airlines in the highly competitive aviation industry are constantly on the hunt for innovative methods to streamline their operations while providing excellent services to passengers. China Airlines, a world-class player in the Asian market, has taken an intelligent step to modernize its fleet by selecting GE's GEnx-1B engines to power its growing Dreamliner fleet.

China Airlines Background

China Airlines, established in 1959, is the national carrier of Taiwan and a leading airline in the Asia-Pacific region. With its headquarters in Taipei, the airline operates an extensive network of domestic and international flights, connecting Taiwan with destinations worldwide. China Airlines is renowned for its commitment to safety, efficiency, and excellent service, consistently striving to provide passengers with a comfortable and memorable travel experience. With its strong presence in the global aviation industry, China Airlines continues to play a vital role in promoting tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges between Taiwan and the rest of the world.

China Airlines' Order of GEnx-1B Engines

China Airlines has been a GE Aerospace customer since 1999, when it ordered 13 GE CF6-80C2-powered Boeing 747-400 aircraft. The firm currently operates an 87-aircraft fleet, which includes 66 passenger jets and 21 freighters. China Airlines has recently made a substantial investment in its fleet by placing an order for 17 GEnx-1B engines and spares. These engines will play a crucial role in powering the airline's expanding fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner commercial aircraft. This strategic move demonstrates China Airlines' commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities and ensuring a seamless travel experience for its passengers.

GE's GEnx-1B Engines: A Strong Option

The aviation industry has recognized GE's GEnx-1B engines for their cutting-edge technology and outstanding efficiency. These engines are intended to deliver substantial fuel savings, reduced emissions, and lower maintenance costs. The GEnx-1B engines incorporate advanced materials and innovative design features that contribute to enhanced aerodynamics and noise reduction, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable flying experience for passengers. The GEnx-1B engines, with their sophisticated architecture and novel features, are a suitable answer for China Airlines ambitious fleet development ambitions.

The Benefits of GE's GEnx-1B Engines

Fuel Efficiency: The GEnx-1B engines offer significant fuel savings, leading to lower operating costs for airlines. These engines utilize advanced technologies such as lightweight composite fan blades and a unique fan bypass design, which contribute to improved fuel consumption.

Reduced Emissions: As the aviation industry places increasing emphasis on environmental sustainability, GE's GEnx-1B engines stand out for their reduced emissions. These engines employ advanced combustion technology, resulting in lower nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.

Enhanced Performance: GE's GEnx-1B engines provide exceptional performance in terms of thrust, power, and reliability. The incorporation of advanced materials and design features allows for higher thrust levels, enabling better takeoff performance and enhanced operational flexibility.

Quieter Operations: Noise reduction is a crucial aspect of modern aircraft engines, and the GEnx-1B engines excel in this area. The innovative fan blade design and advanced acoustics contribute to a quieter flight experience, reducing noise pollution around airports and residential areas.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a state-of-the-art aircraft that has revolutionized air travel. It is designed to offer a superior flying experience with its advanced technology, spacious cabin, and fuel efficiency. The Dreamliner's composite materials, aerodynamic design, and innovative systems enable it to consume less fuel and provide a quieter and more comfortable journey for passengers. With its long-range capabilities, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner has opened up new possibilities for airlines, enabling them to connect distant destinations efficiently.

The Significance of the Order

China Airlines' order for GEnx-1B engines holds significant importance for the airline and the aviation industry as a whole. It signifies the airline's confidence in the performance and reliability of these engines, which will power its expanding fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. By investing in these advanced engines, China Airlines aims to enhance its operational efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and minimize its environmental footprint. This order also reflects the airline's commitment to delivering a superior travel experience to its customers.

China Airlines' Fleet Expansion Plans

The decision to order GEnx-1B engines aligns with China Airlines' ambitious fleet expansion plans. The airline aims to strengthen its position as a leading international carrier by increasing its capacity and improving its service offerings. The addition of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, powered by GEnx-1B engines, will enable China Airlines to expand its route network, enhance long-haul operations, and cater to the growing demand for air travel. This strategic investment will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the airline's growth and success in the competitive aviation market.

The Comprehensive Services Agreement

In addition to the order for GEnx-1B engines, China Airlines has also secured a comprehensive services agreement. This agreement encompasses various aspects of engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, ensuring that the airline's engines operate at peak performance throughout their lifecycle. The comprehensive services agreement provides China Airlines with the peace of mind that it can rely on General Electric's expertise and support to maintain the reliability and efficiency of its GEnx-1B engines.

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"We are thrilled that China Airlines has chosen the GEnx-1B engine for its growing 787 Dreamliner fleet." "This agreement exemplifies the airline's confidence in our products and services," said Kathy MacKenzie, Vice President, GE Commercial Programs at GE Aerospace.  According to China Airlines, "The GEnx-1B engine is critical to our operations." This engine and service agreement allows us to assure that we are fulfilling the highest performance and reliability criteria in order to serve our consumers."

Conclusion

China Airlines' recent order for 17 GEnx-1B engines and spares to power its expanding fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft marks a significant milestone for the airline. This strategic investment demonstrates China Airlines' commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities, improving fuel efficiency, and providing a superior travel experience for its passengers. The GEnx-1B engines, renowned for their advanced technology and performance, will play a crucial role in enabling China Airlines to achieve its fleet expansion goals.

With Inputs from GE Aerospace