Latest flight News | Top flight News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking flight News Today | English flight News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Pilot Surprises His Mother Onboard with Special Announcement | WATCH

April 21, 2025, 3:17 pm

Doing the extra bit to make loved ones feel special is something everybody does and a young pilot recently did just that, leaving the internet greatly touched. A touching video posted by pilot Aswath Pushpan has gone viral after he surprised his mother on a flight she was taking.

As people settled into their seats and boarding was finished, Aswath grabbed the microphone to make a sincere announcement. “I have a very special announcement to make today,” he started. “I have a very special guest on this flight. This individual is someone whom I always bring to the supermarket or the beauty salon, and today, it’s for the first time that I’m taking her to another nation.”

Then, he announced who the special guest was: “This special guest is none other than my mom.” In a joking manner, he concluded the announcement by saying, “Amma, this time you cannot tell that my driving is bad.”

The wholesome moment did not stop there. The video, which was uploaded on social media, also included precious photos of the mother and son within the cockpit, both of them smiling broadly. Aswath captioned the photo lovingly: “Cleared for takeoff with the most special passenger on board! Welcome onboard, Mom.”

Watch:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aswath Pushpan (@ashhwathh)

Since being uploaded, the clip has earned more than eight million views, with the comment space full of moving reactions. One posted, “I and my family saw this live we were on this flight. It was such a lovely moment.” Another commented, “Such a proud moment for his mom.” A third viewer commended, “Congratulations, you made your mom proud.”

Most praised not only the act, but the rearing that produced it. “More power to all the mothers out there who birth and raise men like this. These are lifetime experiences and can’t be substituted for any other flight he might have ever gotten on,” one post stated. Another read, “This is beyond words to say.”

Comments such as “What a blessing,” “This is so adorable,” and just, “Adorable,” resonated with the emotional response the video created.

Interestingly, the video is released just days after Mother’s Day celebrations. On May 12, airline IndiGo had also honored mothers with a special onboard announcement read by a pilot and cabin crew, celebrating the indomitable bond between mothers and children.

PIA Flight Lands Safely in Lahore Despite Missing Rear Wheel

March 15, 2025, 4:56 pm

A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) domestic plane landed at Lahore airport on Thursday morning with one of its rear wheels missing, a report submitted by an official said. Miraculously, no accidents happened during the event, and the passengers alighted normally.

PIA flight PK-306 was departure Karachi for Lahore, and upon arrival, one of the rear wheels of the plane was discovered to be missing. An investigation has been opened to determine whether the wheel went missing during takeoff or while the plane was in transit.Pieces of the lost wheel were discovered on Karachi airport, and officials suspect that the wheel must have been in poor condition before takeoff.

The PIA official confirmed that the flight landed normally and on time. While carrying out the normal walk-around check by the aircraft captain, the missing wheel was found. “According to normal flight procedures, the issue was immediately brought to the notice of PIA flight safety and Lahore airport staff, who are investigating the incident now,” the spokesperson said.

He also ensured that the plane is capable of withstanding such occurrences, posing no danger to travelers or property. The inquiry will also investigate if the wheel had been stolen, though the possibilities of theft seem low.

You’re Antisemitic: Pro-Palestinian Pin On Flight Attendant Ignites In-Flight Drama | WATCH

January 6, 2025, 1:19 pm

A heated confrontation unfolded aboard an American Airlines flight bound for Miami when a Jewish passenger accused a flight attendant of being “antisemitic” for wearing a watermelon pin, a symbol increasingly associated with Palestinian solidarity. The incident, captured on video and shared widely on social media, has sparked controversy and prompted an investigation by the airline.

Passenger Confronts Flight Attendant

The altercation began when the passenger accused the flight attendant of supporting terrorism and discriminating against him for being Jewish. “You support terrorism, you’re antisemitic,” he shouted, adding, “Why are you preventing me from leaving the plane—is it because I’m Jewish?”

Flight attendants attempted to de-escalate the situation, citing US aviation regulations prohibiting passengers from filming airline staff. They also accused the man of physically placing his hands on them, though the passenger disputed this claim.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Community.news (@community.news)

Allegations of Unlawful Detention

According to the passenger, he was detained on the plane and told he could not leave until he deleted the video. Law enforcement was called to the scene, and the man claimed he was the one who initially contacted the police.

“When officers arrived, they informed the airline that I hadn’t broken any laws, and they were in the wrong for detaining me,” the passenger said. “Eventually, the officers removed me from the plane.”

The man described the ordeal as “very upsetting,” adding that he felt he had been treated like a criminal.

American Airlines Investigates Policy Violation

American Airlines confirmed it is investigating the incident, which reportedly occurred last week. The airline’s uniform policy prohibits staff from wearing unauthorised pins, including those not issued by the company. Approved pins include those celebrating anniversaries, awards, union affiliations, military service, or specific religious, ethnic, or LGBTQ identities.

This isn’t the first time American Airlines staff have come under scrutiny for breaking pin-wearing rules. In 2022, employees were criticised for sporting stickers and pins with the anti-Biden slogan “Let’s Go Brandon.”

As the investigation continues, the incident highlights the complexities surrounding workplace policies, freedom of expression, and cultural symbols in increasingly polarized times.

Business Class Traveller Urinates On Fellow Passenger, United Airlines Responds To It

January 5, 2025, 5:02 pm

A United Airlines business class passenger faced an appalling incident during a flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Manila on December 27. The victim, Jerome Gutierrez, was reportedly urinated on by a fellow passenger while asleep in his seat. According to Gutierrez’s stepdaughter, Nicole Cornell, the incident left her father drenched and shocked as he endured the remaining eight hours of the journey in his soaked clothes.

The offender, who claimed to have acted in a dream-like state, later apologised to Gutierrez. However, flight attendants reportedly advised the victim to avoid confronting the individual to prevent any escalation, leaving him to sit through the ordeal without immediate resolution.

United Airlines Responds

Following the incident, United Airlines banned the offending passenger and called authorities to investigate upon landing in Manila. A spokesperson for the airline confirmed a “passenger disturbance” on the flight but refrained from providing additional details.

Nicole Cornell criticised the airline for its handling of the situation, accusing the crew of prioritising operational concerns over passenger safety and health. “This was a biohazard. The plane should have turned around to address the issue,” she remarked, expressing her disappointment with the airline’s response.

Similar Incidents Raise Concerns

This is not the first time such an incident has occurred in recent aviation history. In 2023, an intoxicated passenger on an Air India flight urinated on a fellow traveler, prompting the airline to place the individual on a no-fly list and file a police complaint.

The recurring nature of such incidents has sparked debates about passenger behaviour and the responsibility of airlines to ensure safety and dignity during travel.

Delhi Sees Longest Zero Visibility, Delays Over 100 Flights and 50 Trains

January 5, 2025, 1:28 pm

Dense fog has been covering Delhi for the third day in a row, and the visibility in the city has reduced drastically. Areas like AIIMS, Dwarka, and New Delhi station were covered with a thick white fog. This foggy weather has caused a halt in flight and train services, and several flights and trains have been canceled and delayed at Delhi airport and railway stations. The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for fog in the region.

Delhi witnessed the longest zero visibility spell of its season. Here, the improving conditions brought zero visibility to the range of a 100 metres near IGI airport. As far as trains, 51 suffered delays; a delay was detected in Vande Bharat. More than hundred flights at the Delhi airport could not depart right on time-creating major havoc for the flying passengers. Between 4 and 7:30 am today, Palam experienced zero visibility while on Sunday Safdarjung’s visibility plunged to a dismal 0.50 meters at 5:30 am. Both Palam and Safdarjung airports reported zero visibility in dense fog at 7:30 am.

Air quality in Delhi stayed in the ‘very poor’ category through most of the day as emissions from uncleared garbage and chimney stacks was not curbed, said the CPCB. Even by 10 am, the Air Quality Index (AQI) had touched 369. Minimum temperatures at Safdarjung and Palam stayed at 9.4 and 7.8 degrees Celsius respectively. Dense fog conditions would persist; the IMD forecast, saying that the maximum temperature would settle only around 18 degrees Celsius.

Passenger Tries to Hijack Volaris Flight, Caught on Camera | WATCH

December 9, 2024, 2:42 pm

A Volaris flight heading from El Bajio to Tijuana was diverted due to a hijacking attempt, where a passenger tried to make the aircraft force its way to the United States. The flight, Volaris 3401, was turned back to Guadalajara, where authorities detained the passenger who had been restrained by the crew, according to video footage of the tense moment when the crew confronted the hijacker.

Watch:

??? PASSENGER TRIES TO HIJACK FLIGHT TO U.S., CREW SAYS “NOT TODAY”

Chaos erupted on Volaris Flight 3041 when a passenger attacked a flight attendant and tried to storm the cockpit to reroute the plane to the U.S.

Instead of Tijuana, the flight was diverted to Guadalajara,… pic.twitter.com/JieHBpUaV6

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) December 8, 2024

After the event, the flight proceeded to Tijuana with the passenger who was turned over to the authorities. Volaris said in a statement, “All passengers, crew, and the aircraft are safe. The other passengers were provided with accommodations and were taken to their final destination.”

The airline continued, “Volaris has been appointed as the plaintiff to ensure that the company faces the full weight of the law, to its ultimate consequences.”

Volaris CEO Enrique Beltranena commented on the incident, releasing a separate statement: “Today we were facing an exceptional situation on flight Volaris 3041. It was a flight on the route El Bajío – Tijuana. A passenger attempted to divert the aircraft towards the United States.” He said further, “Thanks to the professionalism and fast reaction of our crew, security procedures were activated, and the flight was diverted to Guadalajara airport.”

Southwest Airlines Flight Evacuated After Phone Catches Fire, Passengers Criticized for Grabbing Luggage

November 18, 2024, 4:10 pm

A terrifying incident occurred at Denver International Airport when 108 passengers on a Southwest Airlines flight were forced to evacuate after a smartphone battery caught fire, igniting a seat. The Boeing 737-700 was about to take off when the fire started, triggering panic among the passengers.

A video circulating on social media showed the intense moments inside the plane, with cabin crew shouting, “Get out, get out now,” as passengers rushed to evacuate. Many were seen grabbing their luggage in their panic.

Thanks to quick action by the crew, the fire was extinguished, and no major injuries occurred. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Southwest Airlines confirmed that passengers seated at the rear of the plane exited via emergency slides, while those in the front used the jet bridge. One passenger sustained minor injuries, and the person whose phone caught fire was treated for burns. The flight continued after a three-hour delay, landing safely at William P. Hobby Airport in Houston.

In a separate incident, a Korean Air flight from Bangkok to Seoul had to manage an unruly passenger who tried to open the emergency exit mid-flight. The man, seated near the emergency exit, began acting erratically an hour into the flight. Despite his efforts to open the hatch, the crew intervened and restrained him. The flight continued safely to Seoul, where the man was handed over to authorities for further investigation. Korean Air confirmed that the situation was handled according to security protocols.

Farewell Vistara: Emotional Tributes Pour In as Airline Takes Its Final Flight

November 11, 2024, 12:15 pm

In a major shift for Indian aviation, Vistara will operate its last flight under its own brand on Monday, November 11. Starting November 12, Vistara’s operations will integrate with Air India, effectively retiring the Vistara brand and leading to a more consolidated market with fewer full-service carriers.

This merger, which has stirred emotional responses from loyal customers on social media, will reduce the number of full-service airlines in India from five to one over the span of 17 years. Through this merger, Singapore Airlines will acquire a 25.1% stake in Air India, further strengthening the international partnership in India’s aviation landscape.

Grateful to have experienced @airvistara on its final day of operations—a brand that truly delivered on its promise of ‘a new feeling’ in travel.
Vistara is one of the few brands which overlapped brand promise with brand delivery so seamlessly. 1/4 pic.twitter.com/YFO5JAm19t

— Anubhav Goyal (@anubhavgo) November 10, 2024

Farewell to Vistara ❤️‍?

India’s finest domestic airline, as it takes its final flight today

Since 2015, Vistara has set new standards for service and comfort in Indian?? skies

Thank you, Vistara, for making every journey memorable! ?

Let us fly high to new horizons with Air… pic.twitter.com/MsenFCAK0y

— Parth Suba (@parthsuba77) November 10, 2024

My last Vistara flight before the AI-Vistara merger comes into effect on 12th November.

UK-848, 6th November 2024.

You’ll be missed @airvistara pic.twitter.com/ifhD4S55Gr

— Chetan Bhutani (@BhutaniChetan) November 6, 2024

One of my all time favorite #Vistara pics –

I took it couple of years ago, when the gate-assignment Gods at Delhi T3 must have been in a great mood!

One final #VistaraLove – Thank you for the memories. ?#AvGeek pic.twitter.com/ZF5N0WkdNJ

— AJ (@OntheRoadAJ) November 10, 2024

For over 17 years, India’s skies hosted a variety of full-service airlines, beginning with the merger of Indian Airlines and Air India in 2007. However, several of these carriers gradually exited the market. Kingfisher Airlines, for example, ceased operations in 2012, while Air Sahara, acquired by Jet Airways and rebranded as JetLite, ended with Jet Airways’ closure in 2019.

Vistara’s consolidation with Air India symbolizes the end of an era, reducing the diversity of full-service carriers and altering the competitive landscape in Indian aviation.

Man Arrested for Allegedly Molesting Woman on Delhi-Chennai IndiGo Flight

October 11, 2024, 1:05 pm

A 45-year-old man, Rajesh Sharma, was arrested for allegedly molesting a female co-passenger during an IndiGo Airlines flight from Delhi to Chennai. Sharma, who works as a marble tile layer, was taken into custody at the Chennai airport after the flight landed on October 9.

Incident Details

The woman, who was returning home after a trip to Jaipur and Delhi, reported that the accused, seated behind her on the flight, touched her inappropriately. According to a police officer, the incident occurred during the flight, leading to her filing a complaint with the local authorities once they arrived in Chennai.

Investigation Underway

The local police assisted the woman in filing a written complaint, and an investigation into the matter is currently in progress. As of now, IndiGo Airlines has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.

Adult Movie Shocks Passengers on Japan-Bound Flight

October 7, 2024, 2:06 pm

Passengers aboard Qantas flight QF59 from Sydney to Haneda experienced a shocking incident when the explicit movie Daddio (2023) unexpectedly played on all screens due to a malfunction in the in-flight entertainment system. The R-rated film’s graphic content, which included sexual scenes and nudity, caused discomfort among travellers, particularly families with children.

Many passengers were unable to stop the inappropriate content, which featured exposed genitals and graphic nudity. One individual recounted the experience on Reddit, stating, “It was impossible to pause, dim, or turn it off. It was super uncomfortable for everyone, especially with families and kids on board.”

Qantas confirmed the occurrence, explaining that a technical glitch hindered individual movie selections. In response, crew members asked passengers for their preferred films, which inadvertently led to Daddio being screened for the entire cabin. When it became evident that the film was inappropriate, the crew attempted to rectify the situation by fixing the screens for those wishing to avoid it. However, this effort proved unfeasible, and they ultimately replaced the movie with a more family-friendly option.

A Qantas spokesperson issued an apology for the incident, stating, “The movie was clearly not suitable to play for the whole flight, and we sincerely apologise to customers for this experience.” The airline is now reviewing its film selection process, as it is standard practice to show family-friendly movies in such scenarios.

The incident has left many passengers unsettled, prompting Qantas to take measures to prevent a recurrence of this technical glitch.

Watch: Flight Catches Fire On San Diego To Vegas Route Goes Viral

October 6, 2024, 11:25 am

A Frontier Airlines flight arriving from San Diego encountered a serious incident on Saturday when flames and thick smoke were spotted emanating from the plane’s undercarriage during its landing at Harry Reid International Airport.

Emergency Response Initiated

According to CBS News, the alarming event took place as Flight 1326 was touching down, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Fortunately, all 190 passengers and seven crew members were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Frontier flight 1326 from KSAN-KLAS just caught fire on landing at KLAS.

I caught it on video as it landed pic.twitter.com/KGt1Asx3rv

— Tyler (@TylerHerrick) October 5, 2024

Details of the Incident

Airport officials indicated that the aircraft experienced a “hard landing,” which triggered the activation of emergency services, including the Clark County Fire Department. Frontier Airlines confirmed that the pilots noticed smoke as the plane landed and promptly declared an emergency. “The aircraft landed safely, and all passengers and crew were evacuated via airstairs,” stated a spokesperson for the airline. After the evacuation, passengers were transported to the terminal by bus.

Flight and Investigation Update

The flight departed from San Diego at 1:51 PM Pacific Time and successfully landed in Las Vegas at 3:37 PM. While the fire was extinguished swiftly, the cause of the incident remains under investigation. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a temporary ground stop at the airport while they assessed the situation.

As investigations continue, the incident raises important questions regarding the safety protocols and mechanical conditions of commercial flights.

Sex Act On Packed Plane: Couple Kicked Off EasyJet Flight Goes Viral

September 27, 2024, 2:14 pm

A British couple, Bradley Smith and Antonia Sullivan, faced legal consequences after being caught performing an explicit act on an EasyJet flight. The incident occurred on March 3, 2023, during their return from Tenerife, Spain, and has since led to a court hearing in Bristol. The couple was fined and ordered to complete community service after admitting to public indecency.

The Incident: Inappropriate Behavior in Public View

The couple was on a 7 am flight from Tenerife to Bristol when multiple passengers witnessed their inappropriate behavior. Bradley Smith, 22, was seated in 16A, while his girlfriend Antonia Sullivan, 20, was in 16B. A fellow passenger seated next to them and a mother-daughter duo behind them reported the couple’s explicit act to the cabin crew.

Prosecutor Maree Doyle told the Bristol magistrates’ court that the couple had placed coats over Bradley’s lap and began engaging in inappropriate behavior shortly after takeoff. Despite attempts to conceal their actions, the movements were clearly visible to nearby passengers, prompting complaints.

Confrontation and Escort Off the Flight

When confronted by the cabin crew, Antonia initially denied the accusations, claiming she was merely rubbing her boyfriend’s leg. However, the couple was later escorted off the flight by police upon landing in Bristol. Both were questioned regarding their behavior, leading to charges of outraging public decency.

Court Hearing: Guilty Pleas and Sentencing

At their recent court appearance, Bradley and Antonia pleaded guilty to committing a sexual act in a public place. The court ordered the couple to compensate the three witnesses who reported their behavior, with each receiving £100 (approximately ₹11,000). Bradley was also sentenced to complete 300 hours of community service, while Antonia was ordered to complete 270 hours.

Judge’s Remarks

Judge Lynne Matthews reprimanded the couple for their blatant disregard for fellow passengers. Addressing their behavior, the judge questioned their sense of entitlement and lack of consideration for others, particularly a child who was seated behind them and witnessed the act.

“You had no regard for the feelings of other passengers,” Judge Matthews said. “Who do you think you are, and what right do you think entitled you to behave in that way in full view of people on that flight?”

The incident has sparked discussions about appropriate behavior in public spaces, with both Bradley Smith and Antonia Sullivan facing the consequences of their actions. The court’s ruling serves as a reminder that public decency laws apply even in high-stress situations like air travel.

Passengers Faint Due To Suffocation Onboard, IndiGo Airlines Apologizes

September 7, 2024, 5:21 pm

IndiGo Airlines apologized on Saturday (September 7) following an incident on their Delhi-Varanasi flight where passengers experienced discomfort due to an air conditioning malfunction. The issue led to several passengers fainting from intense heat and suffocation, with some using magazines to cool themselves, as seen in a video shared online.

Watch:

Kalesh inside Indigo Flight over AC not working inside from Delhi to Varanasi Flight yesterday pic.twitter.com/pPrD1EF6yG

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) September 6, 2024

IndiGo sources explained that although the AC was reportedly functioning, temperature fluctuations caused the cabin to overheat, resulting in passenger panic.

IndiGo’s Response

IndiGo issued a statement saying, “We extend our apologies for the inconvenience experienced on flight 6E 2235 operating from Delhi to Varanasi on September 5, 2024.” They attributed the discomfort to temperature fluctuations, which were adjusted based on passenger feedback. The airline added that the cabin crew provided immediate assistance to those affected.

Past Incident

A similar situation occurred in June on a Delhi-Bagdogra flight when the AC malfunctioned for an hour, causing elderly passengers to struggle with breathing. IndiGo responded by stating, “IndiGo flight 6E 2521 between Delhi and Bagdogra was delayed due to high ground temperatures affecting operations. We prioritize passenger safety and regret the inconvenience caused by these uncontrollable factors.”

Vistara Flight Forced to Make Emergency Landing in Turkey Following Bomb Threat

September 7, 2024, 3:13 am

A Vistara Airlines flight from Mumbai to Frankfurt, carrying 234 passengers and 13 crew members, made an emergency landing in Erzurum, Turkey, on Friday. The incident occurred after a crew member discovered a note in the plane’s toilet claiming there was a bomb on board.

In response to the threat, authorities were immediately notified, and the airline is fully cooperating with security agencies to conduct thorough checks. A Vistara spokesperson emphasized that passenger, crew, and aircraft safety is their top priority.

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which had departed Mumbai at 1:02 p.m., landed safely in Erzurum at 7:05 p.m. Passengers were evacuated and provided refreshments while bomb disposal experts examined the aircraft. The airspace over Erzurum was temporarily closed during the investigation.

This incident follows two previous bomb threats involving Vistara flights. On June 28, a flight from Thiruvananthapuram to Mumbai received a similar threat, which was later confirmed to be a hoax. Another Vistara flight from Paris to Mumbai faced a bomb threat on June 2, which was also determined to be false.

Watch: Drunk Passenger Forces Emergency Landing On EasyJet Flight at 30,000 Feet

September 6, 2024, 12:08 pm

An EasyJet flight was forced to make an emergency landing after a disruptive passenger attempted to storm the cockpit at 30,000 feet. The incident led to conflicting accounts from the airline and passengers regarding the events leading up to the emergency landing.

Eyewitness Accounts Reveal Chaos

According to eyewitnesses who spoke to The Sun, the disruptive passenger boarded the flight already intoxicated. The man reportedly stated that he was traveling from Gatwick to Kos to buy cannabis. His behavior quickly escalated, culminating in an attempt to breach the cockpit.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

On September 3, #easyJet Airbus A320 (G-EZUR) flight #U28235 from #London Gatwick to #Kos, Greece, was forced to divert to #Munich after a drunk passenger allegedly attempted to open an emergency exit door during the flight.

? ©Charlotte_keen1/TikTok#aviation #AvGeek #avgeeks pic.twitter.com/ZakIQO8FEv

— FlightMode (@FlightModeblog) September 5, 2024

The situation deteriorated as the man, already inebriated, began shouting and using offensive language. Eyewitnesses recounted that he abused other passengers, made suggestive comments to flight attendants, and even broke the intercom system. His aggression continued, including derogatory remarks towards fellow passengers and persistent demands for alcohol.

One passenger reported that the man was seen drinking from a large bottle of scotch before takeoff and was already causing a disturbance. Despite being told he would have to wait for alcohol service until after takeoff, his behavior remained disruptive.

Airline’s Response and Passenger Criticism

In response to the incident, EasyJet issued a statement confirming that the flight from London Gatwick to Kos had been diverted to Munich due to a passenger’s disruptive behavior. The airline emphasized its commitment to safety and the seriousness with which it handles such incidents.

The statement read, “The flight was delayed overnight while we arranged a replacement crew and provided customers with hotel accommodation and meals. We are sorry for the inconvenience caused.” EasyJet described the incident as an “extraordinary circumstance,” noting that such disruptions are rare but taken very seriously.

However, passengers have criticized the airline for allowing the intoxicated man to board in the first place. They argue that the airline’s leniency with its boarding policies contributed to the incident. One passenger expressed disbelief that no one was injured, while another accused EasyJet of neglecting its responsibility to prevent such disturbances.

Police Intervention and Aftermath

Following the emergency landing in Munich, the disruptive passenger was detained by police for causing a disturbance. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about airline security and the enforcement of safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Air India-Vistara Merger: Key FAQs On Bookings, Check-Ins, Flight Status And More

August 30, 2024, 3:08 pm

As Vistara and Air India merge their operations, passengers can expect expanded travel options. Here are key updates:

For travelers with Vistara bookings set for on or before November 11, 2024, there will be no changes; these flights will proceed under Vistara as scheduled.

Starting September 3, 2024, bookings for flights beyond November 11, 2024, will no longer be available through Vistara. From November 12, 2024, and onward, you will need to make reservations through the Air India website (www.airindia.com) or the Air India mobile app.

If you have a Vistara booking for travel after November 11, 2024, be aware that your flight will now be operated by Air India. The transition aims to be smooth, though it may alter some aspects of your travel plans. For detailed information, passengers should refer to the latest updates from Air India.

With Vistara and Air India merging, here’s what you need to know for your flights:

Existing Bookings:

Travel Until November 11, 2024: No changes; continue using the Vistara website or app for bookings and check-ins.
Travel From November 12, 2024 Onwards: Bookings will be handled via the Air India website (www.airindia.com) or app. Vistara flights will be operated by Air India.

Booking and Check-ins:

Booking: For travel until November 11, 2024, use Vistara’s platforms. For travel from November 12, 2024, use Air India’s website or app. Award flights and upgrades can be managed via Club Vistara FAQs.
Check-ins: Continue using Vistara’s system until November 11, 2024. For travel from November 12, 2024, check in via Air India’s website or app using the same PNR.

Ticket Validity and Changes:

E-Tickets: For flights until November 11, 2024, your Vistara ticket remains valid. For flights after November 11, 2024, you’ll receive a new Air India ticket but retain the same PNR.
Travel Agents: Contact your travel agent directly for booking changes.

Baggage and Extras:

Baggage Allowance: The allowance remains the same regardless of the airline change.
Excess Baggage: Purchase excess baggage for travel until November 11, 2024, via Vistara. For later travel, use the Air India website or call their center. Purchased excess baggage will carry over to Air India flights.

Cancellations and Rescheduling:

Vistara Travel: For flights until November 11, 2024, use Vistara’s Call Centre. For flights after this date, contact Air India’s Call Centre for changes. Charges will be as per the operating airline.

Flight Status:

Status Check: For flights until November 11, 2024, use Vistara’s platforms. For later flights, check status on Air India’s website or app. Any changes to flight timings will be communicated by the Customer Service Team via email and SMS.

‘It’s A Plane, Not A Bakery’: Video Of Influencer Baking Bread On Flight

August 28, 2024, 9:08 am

A United States-based baking influencer, Maria Baradell, recently faced widespread backlash after she attempted to bake bread while on a flight to Spain. The incident, which was captured on video and shared on Instagram, quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from social media users.

In-Flight Baking: An Unconventional Cooking Lesson

In the now-viral video, Baradell can be seen mixing salt, flour, and water in a bowl on her tray table, kneading the dough, and preparing it as though she were in her kitchen. The influencer described the act as an extension of her cooking lessons, aiming to make a sourdough loaf from scratch while traveling. She even teased viewers with, “Do you want to see the final results?”

WATCH THE VIDEO:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Maria Baradell (@leafandloafco)

However, Baradell chose not to bake the bread on the plane. Instead, she waited until she arrived in Spain and was reunited with her sister to complete the baking process.

Social Media Reacts: “Not the Right Place”

Despite Baradell’s creative intentions, many social media users criticized the act, arguing that an airplane is not the appropriate place for such activities. Some commenters pointed out the unhygienic conditions on planes, with one flight crew member mentioning how tray tables are often used for less sanitary activities, such as trimming toenails or changing diapers.

WATCH:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Maria Baradell (@leafandloafco)

One user commented, “Imagine you settle into your seat and the person next to you sets up a camera, takes out bowls, and starts making bread.” Another added, “This is ridiculous! All for social media attention.”

Concerns were also raised about potential allergens, with one user highlighting the risks for passengers with wheat or gluten allergies. “If I was sat next to you, I would ask for a new seat immediately and a full refund because it would make me sick for several weeks to just inhale the flour.”

Influencer Responds: A Lesson Learned

Following the backlash, Baradell addressed the criticism in a follow-up video, acknowledging that her in-flight baking attempt was not well-received. She wrote in the caption, “#milehighsourdoughclub won’t be a thing. I was trying to be creative after I saw another creator making pasta in-flight, but thanks to your comments I learned this was not a great idea.”

She expressed gratitude to those who provided constructive feedback, stating that her intentions were good, but she now understands the concerns raised. Despite the controversy, Baradell shared that she and her sister enjoyed the bread for dinner the following day and that she is currently exploring Barcelona and visiting some of the city’s top bakeries.

Turbulence on Ground: Passenger Removed After Biting CISF Officer on Flight

August 19, 2024, 7:25 am

A 44-year-old woman named Surekha Singh was involved in a violent altercation on a flight from Pune to New Delhi on Saturday morning. The incident began when Singh clashed with fellow passengers, Anvitika Borse and Aditya Borse, over seating arrangements. The Borse siblings were reportedly seated in their allocated seats when the confrontation with Singh escalated.

As the situation intensified, the flight crew intervened and alerted the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). CISF constables Priyanka Reddy and Sonika Pal attempted to calm Singh, but she became more aggressive and attacked them as well. In the altercation, Singh bit Reddy’s hand, causing an injury. Given the severity of the situation, the CISF officers had to restrain Singh and eventually remove her and her husband from the flight. The couple was then handed over to the airport police.

Surekha Singh, a homemaker from Wakad, and her husband, a software engineer, were reportedly travelling to Delhi to attend a relative’s funeral. The incident led to a police complaint filed by Priyanka Reddy, who accused Singh of obstructing official duties by attacking the officers. The police have registered a case based on this complaint.

According to CISF personnel, Singh appeared to be in a state of extreme distress due to a personal emergency. Her behaviour reportedly escalated to the point where the pilot refused to proceed with the flight, prompting the airline to seek assistance from the CISF. The police issued a notice to Singh, asking her to cooperate with the investigation. Meanwhile, the Borse siblings were allowed to continue their journey to Delhi.

Air India Suspends Tel Aviv Flights Amid Crisis

August 2, 2024, 1:56 pm

Air India has suspended all flights to and from Tel Aviv effective immediately until August 8 due to the escalation of the Israel-Hamas war.

“We are closely monitoring the situation and providing support to passengers with confirmed bookings during this period, offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges,” the airline stated.

Israel targeted Beirut, Lebanon, on Tuesday, aiming at the militant commander responsible for a rocket strike that killed 12 youths on a soccer field. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had vowed severe retaliation against Hezbollah for a rocket attack in the Israel-controlled Golan Heights on Saturday, although Hezbollah has denied involvement.

In Israel, tensions remain high as soldiers are set to appear before a military court on Tuesday over allegations of sexual abuse of a Palestinian detainee from Gaza. Hard-line nationalists in Netanyahu’s government and others have protested. An Associated Press investigation revealed dire conditions at Sde Teiman, where most Gaza detainees are held. Israeli authorities generally deny abuses in Palestinian detention facilities.

Further destruction and bodies were found in Khan Younis, Gaza, following the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 39,300 deaths since Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel. Disease is rampant in overcrowded tent camps housing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, where the sanitation system has collapsed, leading to pools of sewage.

American Airlines: Passenger Asks Flight Attendant For Sex, Tries To Open Door Mid Air

August 2, 2024, 12:27 pm

A New Jersey man has been arrested for disruptive and dangerous behavior on an American Airlines flight. Eric Nicholas Gapco, 26, was on flight 2101 from Seattle to Dallas on July 18 when he allegedly exhibited “unruly” behavior, according to authorities.

Gapco’s actions included propositioning a female crew member for sex and attempting to open the plane’s door mid-flight multiple times, which led to an emergency landing, the New York Post reported. The US Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah detailed that Gapco removed his shirt, inhaled from a vape pen, cursed, and hit on a crew member, proposing sex. He also allegedly assaulted a flight attendant.

Gapco’s behavior was attributed to consuming too many marijuana edibles before the flight. Chaotic footage captured Gapco, bare-chested, shouting “I am sane!” as crew members tried to calm him near the plane’s lavatory. Another video showed passengers assisting the flight crew in restraining Gapco’s hands and feet, seating him in the rear of the plane while it diverted to Salt Lake City.

Local police arrested Gapco at Salt Lake City International Airport around 11 a.m.

According to a criminal complaint, Gapco’s hands and feet were restrained after he “disobeyed the flight crew’s instructions to remain seated, used a vape pen onboard despite crew directives, locked himself in a lavatory, screamed, and attempted to open the aircraft’s exterior doors” while the plane was in flight.

A federal grand jury has indicted Gapco on charges of interfering with a flight crew and attempting to harm an aircraft under US special aircraft jurisdiction. His initial court appearance is set for Thursday afternoon.

Air Europa Flight Suffers Severe Turbulence Leaving Dozens Injured

July 2, 2024, 3:08 am

An Air Europa flight from Madrid to Montevideo was forced to make an emergency landing at a Brazilian airport due to severe turbulence, according to the airline. About 40 passengers, mostly with minor injuries, were taken to hospitals in Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte state, after the plane was diverted early on Monday. News website G1 reported that some passengers suffered fractures and head injuries during the turbulence, with at least two remaining in hospital on Monday afternoon.

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, carrying 325 people, left Madrid at 11:57 pm on Sunday and was scheduled to arrive in Montevideo early on Monday. At 2:32 am, Flight UX045 requested an emergency landing at Natal airport in northeastern Brazil, approximately 4,000km from Montevideo, according to its operator, Zurich Airport Brazil. Air Europa stated on X that Natal airport was the closest that could quickly attend to passengers with medical needs, confirming that there were “injured passengers of varying severity.”

The state’s public health department reported that 40 passengers from Spain, Uruguay, Israel, Germany, and Bolivia were treated in state-run hospitals, with most being discharged after receiving medical attention. Four passengers remained stable at Monsenhor Walfredo Gurgel Hospital, awaiting test results, while five others were taken to private hospitals. No information was available about their nationality or specific health condition.

A social media user who claimed to be on the flight posted pictures showing broken ceiling panels, with pipes and wires exposed. By 1:12 pm, Air Europa announced that passengers who were not injured were being transferred to Recife, the capital of Pernambuco state, 255km from Natal, where they would be accommodated before traveling to Montevideo.

This incident follows a series of similar occurrences where turbulence has caused significant injuries. In May, a 73-year-old British man died, and several others suffered severe injuries when a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore was forced to make an emergency landing in Bangkok due to turbulence. A week later, eight people were hospitalized following turbulence on a Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Ireland.

Scientists have noted that clear air turbulence, which is invisible to radar, is increasing due to the climate crisis. Research from Reading University indicates that higher temperatures resulting from the climate crisis are causing significant increases in turbulence across transatlantic flights. The study found that incidents of severe turbulence increased by 55% between 1979 and 2020 due to changes in wind velocity at high altitudes.

SpiceJet Flight SG 486: Why Were Passengers Left Without AC Amid The Heatwave?

June 19, 2024, 1:46 pm

SpiceJet passengers traveling from Delhi to Darbhanga (SG 486) were forced to endure over an hour inside an aircraft without air conditioning amid the ongoing heatwave, leaving several individuals feeling unwell.

#WATCH | SpiceJet passengers travelling from Delhi to Darbhanga (SG 486) had to wait inside an aircraft without air conditioning (AC) for over an hour amid the ongoing heatwave, with several feeling unwell. pic.twitter.com/6f5Oij7yho

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

Similar incidents have occurred recently, highlighting a concerning trend. Just days ago, passengers on another SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Srinagar faced a similar predicament. They boarded the aircraft and were left inside for more than an hour without functioning air conditioning, exacerbating the discomfort caused by Delhi’s severe heat.

Imagine being trapped in an enclosed setup with no open doors, windows, or fans. The situation quickly became intolerable, especially given the current heatwave conditions. The temperature in Delhi has been soaring, and heatwaves are taking a toll on the health of residents.

For the passengers of the Delhi to Darbhanga flight, the lack of air conditioning turned the waiting period into a dreadful experience. According to reports, many passengers began to feel sick due to the extreme heat. The Print reported that the situation became dire as the hot and stagnant air inside the cabin made it difficult for passengers to breathe comfortably.

One passenger described the ordeal, saying, “Waiting in the flight cabin was unbearable. Without air conditioning, the heat was stifling. People around me were visibly uncomfortable, and some even started to feel faint.”

The incident raises serious concerns about passenger safety and comfort during air travel, particularly during extreme weather conditions. As temperatures continue to rise, ensuring that aircraft are equipped with fully operational air conditioning systems is critical to preventing such distressing experiences.

SpiceJet has yet to release an official statement addressing the incident. Passengers affected by the situation are calling for the airline to take immediate action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions and the importance of maintaining essential services to ensure passenger well-being. As heatwaves continue to impact cities like Delhi, airlines and other service providers must prioritize measures to protect individuals from the harmful effects of high temperatures.

Qatar Airways Passengers ‘Strip Off’ and Faint Due to Broken Air Conditioner

June 15, 2024, 3:53 pm

Passengers aboard a Qatar Airways flight from Athens, Greece to Doha endured extreme heat for over three hours after the aircraft’s air conditioning system malfunctioned. Reports indicate that the technical failure caused passengers to sweat profusely, with some even removing their clothes to cope with the heat.

A video shared by sports massage therapist Garth Collins showed Damian Collins, a Muay Thai fighter on the flight, visibly sweating while passengers behind him tried to fan themselves and stay hydrated.

Garth expressed concern, stating, “Damian Collins, while they held on board @qatarairways flight QR204 for 3.5 hours with the doors closed, no air cooling, and zero sustenance, people were passing out, and panic ensued.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Garth Collins (@granitebodies)

Garth also shared additional videos showing passengers struggling with the heat and attempting to cool themselves with inflight magazines. Eventually, passengers were allowed to disembark and return to the terminal building at Athens International Airport to await further instructions.

The delayed flight arrived in Doha around 10:30am on Tuesday, after originally being scheduled to land at 6:20pm on Monday.

A Qatar Airways spokesperson apologized for the delay, attributing it to a technical issue and stating, “Qatar Airways sincerely apologises for the delay to passengers travelling on flight QR204 from Athens (ATH) to Doha (DOH) on Monday 10 June 2024, which was due to a technical issue.”

Port Blair: Flight operations commenced from new integrated airport terminal

August 21, 2023, 5:38 pm

The inaugural flight from Chennai departed from the New Integrated Terminal Building of Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.

The airplane arrived here on Sunday, according to an announcement from the Airports Authority of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi used video conferencing to inaugurate Port Blair Airport’s new integrated terminal on July 18, 2023.

The terminal, which has a total built-up space of 40,837 square meters, can serve 1200 passengers during peak hours and approximately 50 lakh passengers yearly. The airport facility has 28 check-in desks, 12 immigration desks, three passenger boarding bridges, and three conveyor belts. The airport’s apron can accommodate up to ten aircraft at once.

The airport terminal’s architectural design is inspired by nature and resembles a shell-shaped building portraying sea and islands. The building also has current ecological measures, as well as different accessibility amenities for people with limited mobility, among other things.

The new terminal building’s operation and greater aerial access to the islands are projected to boost the developing tourism business while offering new job possibilities for the local community.

Go First extends flight cancellations till 22 June

June 19, 2023, 1:09 pm

On Monday, the crisis hit airline Go First stated that owing to operational concerns, all of its scheduled flights will be cancelled through June 22. The original deadline was 19th June.

“Due to operational reasons, Go First flights until 22nd June 2023 are cancelled,” the airline said in a tweet and apologised for the inconvenience caused to the flyers.There were reports that the grounding of the Go First flights had put pressure on airfares, particularly on select routes where the now-grounded airline had its footprint.The airline operator had in early May filed for voluntary insolvency and since then its operations were kept stalled. The company earlier said it had filed an application for immediate resolution and revival of operations.

‘Agni Prime’ ballistic missile successfully flight-tested by DRDO off Odisha coast

June 8, 2023, 1:12 pm

According to a DRDO statement on Thursday, the maiden pre-induction night launch of Agni Prime, a next generation ballistic missile, was successfully completed on Wednesday at around 7:30 pm from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.All objectives were successfully shown during the flight test, according to the official statement. After three successful missile development tests, the users launched their first pre-induction night launch, proving the system’s precision and dependability.

“First Pre Induction night launch of New Generation Ballistic Missile Agni Prime was successfully conducted off the coast of Odisha on 07 June 2023,” tweeted DRDO.
Range instrumentation like Radar, Telemetry and Electro-Optical Tracking Systems were deployed at different locations, including two down-range ships, at the terminal point to capture flight data covering the entire trajectory of the vehicle, the statement said.
Senior officials from DRDO and Strategic Forces Command witnessed the successful flight test, which paved the way for the induction of the system into the Armed Forces.

Rajnath Singh, the minister of defence, commended DRDO and the armed forces on the New Generation Ballistic Missile Agni Prime’s success and flawless performance.
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary Department of Defence R&D & Chairman DRDO, expressed appreciation for the efforts made by the DRDO laboratory personnel and the test launch participants.

VietJet Air’s flight to Ho Chi Minh City to take off from Mumbai after 20 hour delay

May 26, 2023, 1:27 pm

VietJet Air has announced that the rescheduling of a flight from Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City has impacted several flights, leading to chaotic scenes at Mumbai airport. The flight, VJ884, which was originally scheduled to depart at 1 am on May 26, has been rescheduled to 8:30 pm on the same day, causing a delay of over 12 hours.

VietJet Air cited operational reasons for the rescheduling and stated that affected passengers would receive support according to the carrier’s policy, including accommodations, meals, and other necessary assistance. The airline apologized for the situation and mentioned that flight rescheduling for operational reasons is common in the aviation industry to prioritize passenger safety. Passengers can contact VietJet Air through email or their Indian Call Center for further information.

During Air-India flight, passengers headed for Sydney were hurt during turbulence.

May 17, 2023, 2:22 pm

The aircraft experienced intense turbulence mid-flight on Tuesday, injuring several passengers on board an Air India trip from Delhi to Sydney, according to the aviation watchdog Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
On Tuesday, May 16, the event occurred during the flight, and the injured passengers received medical attention when they arrived at the Sydney airport. The DGCA said that no passenger was hospitalised. The AI-302 (Delhi-Sydney) Air India B787-800 aircraft, registered VT-ANY, experienced significant turbulence. Seven passengers on the flight reported mild sprains, the DGCA said to media.

Soon after the plane landed, the female passenger received emergency medical attention and was taken to the hospital. “The aforementioned passenger was seen by a doctor at the airport after landing, received treatment at the hospital, and was then released.
“Our staff according to the protocol, thoroughly inspected the aircraft, discovered the scorpion, and then properly performed the fumigation process. We deeply regret the passenger’s suffering and inconvenience, Air India remarked.

Flight captain report to police for touching the door

February 21, 2023, 7:54 am

The police said on Monday, an engineering student had been booked for apparently touching the emergency door of a Delhi-bound flight according to the police. As per reports, on Saturday, the accused engineering student was travelling from Chennai to Delhi. Police said the person touched the emergency gate during the flight. Observing the incident, the flight crew tried to stop him and reported to the flight captain. The captain decided to report the police about the incident. However, the accused said he didn’t want to opened the emergency door, but had only touched its handle. The police have said that a notice has been served to the accused and legal action is being taken against him. Although he has not been arrested, he will have to appear in court, they said.