Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to Introduce a 'Silent' Terminal for Enhanced Passenger Experience

The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport here will be going 'silent' from January 1, 2024. In a 'silent airport', passengers will be provided a noise-free and peaceful travel experience, an airport statement said on Wednesday, December 27. This move aligns it with silent airports such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Lucknow.

"The Silent Airport initiative is to ensure that passengers can enjoy a relaxed auditory experience while they utilise their wait time enjoying their favourite activities without disturbance," a TRV (Kerala) International Airport Limited (TIAL) spokesperson said.

As part of the initiative, the airport will ensure that no vital information for passengers is missed and that TIAL will display flight information in all Flight Information Display Screens across Terminal-1 and Terminal-2, it said.

Only announcements related to changes in boarding gate and the Inline Baggage Screening System will be made at the airport, it added. Emergency and security-related announcements will continue on the public announcement systems per the requirements.

A campaign to sensitise passengers about the Silent Airport initiative of TIAL will also be undertaken on social media handles such as Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, the statement added.

Thiruvananthapuram Airport Getting a Makeover

The phenomenal increase in passenger traffic and the state government’s silence on acquiring land required for terminal expansion have prompted the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Limited (TIAL) to launch a grandiose development project within the existing facility.

The old domestic terminal (T1) on Shankhumukham’s side will be demolished to create a new world-class domestic terminal. Furthermore, the international terminal (T2) will be expanded with the addition of 50,000 square feet, sources close to TIAL said.

The airport authorities have also submitted a proposal to the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to provide a special zone for domestic passengers. The approval is expected within a month.

The T1 demolition will begin next year after the work on the additional 50,000 square feet of space at T2 (Chackai side) is completed. This will allow the domestic terminal to be operated temporarily from T2. The master plan for airport expansion was amended to include this proposal, and the revised plan was submitted to the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) for approval.

The plan is expected to be cleared before March 31, 2024. Once it is approved, work on expanding the terminal will begin. Demolition of the domestic terminal will start only after completely shifting domestic operations to T2. 

Nepal Airlines has once again initiated efforts to sell two MA-60s and three Y12s, manufactured in China, by issuing a tender notice for their auction on December 21, 2023. The move comes after several unsuccessful attempts to lease or sell the aircraft, with previous challenges including pressure from the Chinese Embassy and recommendations to sell them for scrap value.

Background

The Nepalese government procured these aircraft on behalf of Nepal Airlines in the early part of the last decade. However, by 2020, the national carrier decided to retire the MA-60s and Y12s due to their perceived unreliability, high operational costs, and unsuitability for local flying conditions. The decision to part ways with these aircraft was driven by financial losses amounting to NPR 2 billion (USD 15 million) incurred by the airline through flying and storing the non-operational planes.

Auction Details

The tender documentation specifies that the five aircraft are being offered on an "as-is-where-is" basis, with no mention of their airworthiness. The two MA-60s, identified as 9N-AKQ and 9N-AKR, and the three Y12s - 9N-AKS, 9N-AKT, and 9N-AKV - are all equipped with intact engines. On-site inspections are available upon prior arrangement.

Aircraft Details

MA-60s

• 9N-AKQ (MSN 1007): Built in December 2013, 3,316 cycles.
• 9N-AKR (MSN 1008): Built in November 2016, 3,415 cycles.

Y12s

• 9N-AKS (MSN 026): Manufactured in June 2014, 2,333 cycles.
• 9N-AKT (MSN 027): Built in March 2015, 1,424 cycles.
• 9N-AKV (MSN 029): Built in September 2015, 1,386 cycles.

Auction Process

Bidders are required to submit their bids by February 4, 2024, at 1300 local time, accompanied by a bank guarantee for 10% of the bid amount, valid for 90 days. The successful bidder will be issued a Letter of Intent (LOI) pending approval from the Nepal Airlines Corporation board. The bidder must accept the LOI within 15 days, sign a contract within 60 days, and deposit the full amount within 30 days of signing the contract. Removal of the aircraft from Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport must be completed within 180 days.

Conclusion

Nepal Airlines' decision to auction the Chinese-manufactured aircraft reflects its commitment to addressing financial challenges and optimizing its fleet. The upcoming auction will determine the fate of these MA-60s and Y12s, with potential buyers considering factors such as maintenance history, airworthiness, and overall operational viability before making a bid. The outcome will shape the next chapter for these aircraft and influence the future direction of Nepal Airlines' fleet management strategy.

With Inputs from ch-aviation

In a recent Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing on December 18, 2023, Hawaiian Airlines disclosed its openness to buyout offers, emphasizing its commitment to shareholder interests. This move comes as Alaska Airlines' planned takeover bid of $1.9 billion faces uncertainties, awaiting shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Hawaiian Airlines' Stance

The SEC filing revealed that Hawaiian Airlines' board, under specific constraints, would consider alternative buyout offers if the proposed acquisition by Alaska Airlines fails to materialize. Despite this openness, the filing stressed that the current focus remains on the agreement reached with Alaska Airlines, viewed as the optimal path forward for the company.

Employee Concerns Addressed

The majority of the questions in the filing pertained to labor-related issues and the potential impact on Hawaiian Airlines employees if the Alaska takeover bid proceeds. According to the scripted answers, employees can expect business as usual until the transaction closes, a timeline estimated to be within 12-18 months from the board's initial approval.

Employee Transition and Benefits

During this interim period, the filing assured employees that pay and benefits would remain unchanged. While specifics about the integration of benefits plans were not detailed, expectations were set for the combined entity to offer competitive pay and benefits, along with enhanced career advancement and geographic mobility opportunities for the workforce.

Operational Transition

The filing confirmed that until regulatory approval is obtained, both Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines will continue to operate as standalone entities. Post-approval, Hawaiian Airlines is poised to become a wholly owned subsidiary of Alaska Airlines, with Honolulu serving as a regional headquarters for the combined entity. The integration will lead to a single air operator's certificate, marking the point where Hawaiian employees transition into Alaska Airlines employees.

Maintaining Union-Represented Jobs

Addressing concerns about job security, the filing emphasized Alaska Airlines' commitment to preserving and expanding union-represented jobs in Hawaii. Specific assurances were given for maintaining pilot, flight attendant, and maintenance bases in Honolulu, as well as airport operations and cargo services throughout the state.

Fleet Planning and Potential Changes

While fleet composition decisions have not been finalized, the filing acknowledged the possibility of changes to the fleet. Speculation surrounds the replacement of Hawaiian's B717-200s with B737 MAX types ordered by Alaska Airlines. The filing highlighted that decisions would be made based on maximizing operational efficiency and customer experience, with pilot allocations governed by joint collective bargaining agreement terms.

Vendor and Contractor Agreements

The filing acknowledged that Hawaiian Airlines would continue working with ground handling contractors and other vendors until the takeover transaction closes. However, uncertainties persist regarding the continuity of these agreements once Alaska Airlines assumes control.

Conclusion

As Hawaiian Airlines navigates through the complexities of the proposed acquisition by Alaska Airlines, the SEC filing provides valuable insights into the company's openness to alternative buyout offers and its commitment to addressing employee concerns. The evolving landscape of the aviation industry will undoubtedly influence the final outcome, shaping the future of Hawaiian Airlines and its role within the broader Alaska Airlines network.

With Inputs from ch-aviation

In a strategic move to enhance its fleet capabilities, Aegean Airlines has entered into a significant long-term ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) deal with Cyprus Airways. This collaboration involves the wet-leasing of two A320-200s from Cyprus Airways throughout the entirety of 2024. The expansion marks a notable milestone in the ongoing partnership between the two carriers.

Fleet Augmentation Begins

The first aircraft, bearing registration 5B-DDQ and with Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN) 4055, was ferried from Larnaca to Thessaloniki on December 18. Promptly commencing operations for Aegean Airlines, the very next day, it embarked on its inaugural flight to Prague Václav Havel. This move aligns with Aegean Airlines' commitment to meeting growing demand and optimizing its operational efficiency.

Scheduled Deployment of Second Aircraft

The second A320-200, registered as 5B-DDR with MSN 3933, is slated to join Aegean Airlines' fleet in March 2024. This phased deployment underscores the meticulous planning involved in fleet expansion, allowing for a seamless integration of additional capacity as per operational requirements.

Strategic Cooperation Beyond Fleet Expansion

Beyond the aircraft deployment, the strategic collaboration between Aegean Airlines and Cyprus Airways extends to an extensive codeshare agreement. The existing partnership focuses on offering and optimizing joint products and services, ensuring a comprehensive and competitive offering for passengers.

Cyprus Airways' Fleet Dynamics and Future Plans

Cyprus Airways, as part of its broader fleet strategy, currently operates two A220-300s. With an eye on the future, the airline considers the A220 as the foundation of its upcoming fleet. This forward-looking approach aligns with the industry trend towards more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced aircraft.

Challenges and Market Dynamics

Operating in a highly seasonal market, Cyprus Airways has faced challenges exacerbated by a drop in demand from/to Israel due to geopolitical events, specifically the war in Gaza. Israel holds a key position as an international market for Cyprus, and the impact on demand has necessitated strategic adjustments in the face of evolving market dynamics.

Leadership Perspectives

Expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration, Cyprus Airways' Chief Executive, Paul Sies, stated, "We are very happy and proud to take the next step in our strategic cooperation with Aegean." This sentiment underscores the mutual benefits and shared vision that underpin this partnership.

Aegean Airlines Fleet Overview

Aegean Airlines, a major player in the European aviation landscape, operates a diverse fleet comprising twenty-eight A320-200s, sixteen A320-200Ns, five A321-200s, twelve A321-200NXs, nine ATR72-600s, and a single DHC-8-100. Notably, the turboprops are placed under the Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) of Olympic Air, further highlighting the synergies within the broader Aegean Airlines Group.

Conclusion

In summary, this expansion through the wet-leasing arrangement with Cyprus Airways positions Aegean Airlines for enhanced operational flexibility and improved service offerings. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, strategic partnerships and fleet optimization remain critical for carriers navigating the complexities of the market.

With Inputs from ch-aviation

In a recent survey conducted by the community social media platform LocalCircles, alarming revelations have emerged regarding the state of passenger comfort and service quality in India's airline industry. The survey, which garnered responses from over 13,000 air passengers across 284 districts in India, paints a concerning picture of airlines compromising on comfort and cutting corners in the past 24 months.

Rising Complaints and Issues

The surge in complaints recorded by LocalCircles since October is indicative of a growing dissatisfaction among air travelers. The issues reported range from excessive fares, flight cancellations, and delays to boarding denials, damaged or misplaced luggage, and steep hikes in onboard food prices. The holiday season exacerbated these problems, reaching a new peak as many passengers headed to airports for Christmas and New Year travel.

Passenger Sentiment Survey Highlights

• Overall Dissatisfaction: Approximately 78% of the 12,902 respondents acknowledged facing one or more issues while flying in the last two years, highlighting a widespread discontent among air travelers.
• In-Flight Services: A significant 39% of respondents expressed concerns about in-flight services, including meals and entertainment, indicating a decline in the quality of onboard experiences.
• Boarding and Check-in Procedures: About 35% of participants reported issues with boarding and check-in procedures, shedding light on challenges faced during the pre-flight phase.
• Baggage Handling: Similarly, 35% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with baggage handling, pointing towards problems related to damaged or misplaced luggage.
• Aircraft Interiors: Thirty percent of survey participants indicated displeasure with poor aircraft interiors, encompassing discomfort related to seating arrangements and entertainment systems.
• Timely Information Sharing: Seventeen percent of respondents faced challenges due to airlines not promptly sharing information, reflecting a lack of transparency and communication.
• Flight Delays: Another 17% of participants reported hassles caused by flight delays, impacting travel schedules and causing inconvenience.
• Staff Behavior: Nine percent of respondents cited issues with the behavior of airline staff, both inside the flight and at airport check-in counters, indicating a need for improved customer service.

Common Issues and Trends

The survey findings also highlighted common issues such as airlines overbooking and denying boarding to passengers arriving slightly late, as well as instances of staff displaying rude behavior during these incidents.

Public Perception and Opinions

An overwhelming 88% of the 12,823 respondents believed that Indian airlines have been compromising on passenger comfort and cutting corners over the last two years, underscoring a widely shared sentiment of dissatisfaction within the flying community.

Demographic Insights

Breaking down the respondents, the survey revealed that 64% were men, while 36% were women. Additionally, 47% were from tier-1 cities, 33% from tier-2 cities, and 20% from tier-3, -4 cities, and rural districts.

Conclusion

The findings of the LocalCircles survey indicate a pressing need for the Indian aviation industry to address the concerns raised by passengers. As air travel continues to play a crucial role in connecting people and fostering economic growth, ensuring a positive and comfortable flying experience should be a top priority for airlines. The survey results serve as a valuable source of feedback, urging stakeholders to take corrective measures to enhance passenger satisfaction and restore confidence in the country's aviation sector.

Bamboo Airways, Vietnam's private carrier, is facing financial difficulties, prompting Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai to urge government ministries for assistance. The deputy prime minister has called on the transport and finance ministries to support the beleaguered airline and provide a report to the prime minister's office by December 31.

Current Situation

Bamboo Airways has encountered losses and debts attributed to unspecified challenges, as stated by Le Minh Khai. The airline has been grappling with financial instability, leading to a significant reduction in its services, including the elimination of its international routes. The carrier, once servicing destinations such as Frankfurt, London Gatwick, Melbourne, Seoul, Singapore, and Sydney, now exclusively operates domestic flights.

Job Losses and Restructuring

The removal of international routes has resulted in substantial job losses within the airline, according to reports. Bamboo Airways initiated a broader restructuring plan in 2023, marked by significant leadership changes at the top level. The airline aims to stabilize its operations and address persistent concerns about its financial stability.

Fleet Overview

As of the latest available data, Bamboo Airways currently operates nine aircraft, including five Airbus A320 family jets, two A320neos, and two Embraer E190s. Additionally, the airline has nine aircraft in storage, comprising four A320s, two A320neos, and one E190. Bamboo Airways holds orders for 10 Boeing 787-9s, reflecting its ambition to expand its fleet.

Previous Status

At the beginning of 2023, Bamboo Airways boasted a more extensive fleet, with 29 aircraft in service, featuring three 787-9s, 21 A320/A320neo family jets, and five E190s. The airline's decision to streamline its operations by focusing on domestic flights underscores the challenges it has faced in sustaining international routes.

Government Call for Support

Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai's recent call for support follows a similar appeal made in August. The government is seeking assistance not only from the transport and finance ministries but also from key stakeholders such as fuel provider Petrolimex, the Airports Corporation of Vietnam, and lenders.

Conclusion

Bamboo Airways' current predicament highlights the broader challenges faced by the aviation industry, especially amid the ongoing global uncertainties. As the airline seeks government assistance to navigate its financial woes, the industry and investors will be closely monitoring developments to gauge the effectiveness of the proposed measures and the potential impact on Bamboo Airways' future operations.

With Inputs from Flight Global