PUNE: In a significant boost to aviation skill development in Western India, Global School of Aviation, the training arm of Global Flight Handling Services (A concessionaire of Airport Authority of India for Airport Ground Handling at Pune Airport), today inaugurated its Pune training facility at Aero Mall, adjacent to Pune International Airport. Shri Muralidhar Mohol, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Government of India, inaugurated the state-of-the-art centre.

The new facility underscores Pune’s growing stature in India’s aviation landscape, serving both as a key operational base for airport services and now as a hub for aviation training and employment.

“Pune has always been a city of talent and innovation. With the expansion of air connectivity under the UDAN scheme and the rise in passenger traffic, this new training centre will provide timely skilling opportunities for the region’s youth,” said Shri Muralidhar Mohol, Union MoS for Civil Aviation and Cooperation. “I commend Global School of Aviation for investing in Pune and supporting the Government of India’s vision of making India a global aviation hub.”

The Global School of Aviation Pune facility will offer diploma and certification programs in Airport Ground Handling, Cabin Crew Training, Airport Operations & Management, and degree programs in collaboration with AMET University. Plans are already underway to bring international certification programs from governing bodies and develop a fully equipped mock aircraft cabin to deliver real-world, hands-on training experiences.

“We are proud to launch this facility in Pune, which will enable us to meet our in-house requirements and provide the right platform to future aviators who are looking for an aviation career,” said Sarita Kumari, Managing Director, Global Flight Handling Services. “With over 400 staff working at Pune Airport—95% of whom are from the city and neighbouring districts—this centre is a natural extension of our commitment to local employment, skilling, and aviation excellence.”

Located inside Aero Mall, India’s first airport mall complex situated just opposite Pune International Airport, the training facility benefits from real-time exposure to airport operations. Trainees will be able to interact with professionals from Global Flight Handling Services, which operates across 23 Indian airports, including Pune, Aurangabad, Jalgaon, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra alone.  As an airport ground handling company, we remain committed to expanding our presence across Maharashtra and other parts of India, continuing our mission to elevate aviation infrastructure and training standards nationwide.

The facility is equipped with smart classrooms and multimedia-equipped training halls, cabin crew training labs (under development), career counselling and placement support, and access to on-ground practical exposure at Pune Airport.

Pune Airport, one of the fastest-growing airports in the country, handled over 10.54 million passengers in FY2024–25 and is undergoing significant expansion. With rising demand for both domestic and regional flights, the city is witnessing a parallel surge in the need for skilled aviation professionals across roles.

The Pune centre is the second facility under the Global School of Aviation brand, following the launch in Chennai in 2024. Centres in Kochi, Ahmedabad, and Visakhapatnam are scheduled to launch soon.

Global School of Aviation is a vertical of Global Flight Handling Services, a group company of Updater Services Ltd., India’s largest integrated facilities and business support services provider with a workforce of over 65,000.

“This is not just a training centre; it’s a gateway to careers in aviation for thousands of young Indians,” added Sarita. “We want to ensure that anyone aspiring for an aviation career—whether on the ground or in the air—has access to quality education, global certification, and practical experience.”

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Through this partnership with Collinson International, Kiwi users can now access over 45 airport lounges domestically through Collinson International’s LoungeKey program

INDIA: Kiwi, India’s pioneering credit-on-UPI fintech platform, is redefining travel convenience by becoming the first UPI App to introduce complimentary airport lounge access across 22 airports in the country. To offer customers this travel benefit, Kiwi partners with Collinson International, a global leader in the provision of airport experiences, loyalty, and customer engagement solutions, to provide access to over 45 premium airport lounges in India through their LoungeKey program. This game-changing feature aligns with the surging travel aspirations of Indians, offering users a premium perk tied directly to their spending.

As part of this program, Kiwi users can now enjoy one complimentary airport lounge access for every ₹50,000 spent via Credit Card on UPI on the Kiwi platform. The process is fully digital: users can book lounge access through the Kiwi app, generate a pass or QR code, and simply scan it at the lounge entrance to avail of the service. Whether for business or leisure, this feature transforms routine travel into a luxurious experience, bridging the gap between everyday financial activity and aspirational privileges.

To further enhance the offering, Kiwi plans to launch an additional feature allowing users to extend this benefit to a friend, family member, or companion. This initiative will position Kiwi as a frontrunner in offering holistic lifestyle services through a single platform as it aligns with a “super app” approach, integrating multiple lifestyle benefits into one platform.

Mohit Bedi, Co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Kiwi said, “At Kiwi, our goal has always been to redefine what a payments platform can offer. With this pioneering feature, we aim to integrate premium travel privileges into everyday life while encouraging aspirational and responsible spending. As the first UPI app to offer lounge access, Kiwi is setting a new benchmark in delivering convenience, innovation, and lifestyle value to our users.”

Sumit Prakash, Country Director, India and South Asia, Collinson International said, “Collinson International’s latest research shows that travel is a key driver for consumer expenditure, with a strong ‘travel resonance’ among Indian survey respondents. Travel is the second highest expense for respondents in India, accounting for almost a third of annual expenditure. With growing travel demand and strong consumer preference for travel-related benefits, brands, especially in the financial services sector, have more opportunities to level up their customer value proposition. We are delighted to be partnering with Kiwi to provide a highly valued travel benefit to their customers and we look forward to welcoming them into our network of airport lounges in India.”

As travel returns at pace in India, Indians are placing a heightened focus on tailored travel experiences that add value to their lives. A recent Collinson International research revealed that close to half of the survey respondents in India (44%) rate airport lounge access as one of the most appealing travel-related rewards – surpassing security fast-track (9%) and airport transfers (7%). With Kiwi’s latest initiative incorporating access to airport lounges into their rewards program, Kiwi users can now elevate every journey into something special.

This lounge access benefit is now live and can be availed at major airports across the country. Users can check their eligibility, track their spending, and book their access directly via the Kiwi app.

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The new Star Alliance branded lounge is located in a dedicated space on the upper level of the existing GBIA lounge in the Terminal 1 international area, offering exclusive access to Star Alliance member airline guests. The Star Alliance area provides a comfortable environment for travelers as they relax or work before their flight. Ideally situated close to the departure gates for Star Alliance member airlines, the lounge features an open layout and offers 750 square meters of space which can accommodate up to 100 guests. Open around the clock, it welcomes travelers with varying flight schedules.

“Lounges are a critical component for the effortless travel experience we aim to provide to our member airline passengers,” said Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias. “As a key strategic hub in Asia, Guangzhou serves as an important gateway for our guests. We are excited to inaugurate our first lounge in Asia, given the significance of the continent to aviation growth today and in the years to come.”

Ambar Franco, Star Alliance’s Vice President for Customer Experience, added, “Our first Star Alliance branded lounge in Asia is an exciting milestone for us. Thoughtfully designed with the modern traveler in mind, it offers an effortless blend of comfort and functionality. Conveniently located close to departure gates, this lounge also provides travelers with the flexibility to relax, work, or refresh before their flight, all while enjoying a wide range of refreshment options and services tailored to their needs.”

The lounge features a glass facade offering tarmac views, filling the space with natural light. It also includes practical amenities, such as workstations and comfortable seating areas for both relaxation and productivity. Tucked in a quiet space, the VIP room is a 100 square meters private area ideal for group or private business meetings, available upon request. Guests are also welcome to use the state-of-the-art shower suites to refresh themselves before their onward journey.

The Star Alliance branded lounge offers a sense of connection to Guangzhou and the Pearl Delta River region. In addition to being adorned with art pieces by local artists, the lounge also has an exclusive Tea Appreciation Corner that will be available on special occasions, where guests can experience the region’s renowned tea culture. Guests can also enjoy a range of food options, with light bites and regional delights featuring local cuisine served throughout the day. There is also a dedicated bar counter where travelers can enjoy drinks that have been specially curated for the lounge.

Qi Yaoming, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, said, “The fact that Star Alliance has chosen to open its first branded lounge in Asia at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is not only a sign of trust and support for us but also an acknowledgment of the status of Baiyun Airport as an important international hub. Baiyun Airport will continue to uphold the service concept of ‘Customer First’ and continuously build itself into an airline-friendly airport to provide even better service guarantees for Star Alliance and its member airlines.”

The Star Alliance branded lounge was created by Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in cooperation with member airlines. Operated by Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Business Travel Service Co., Ltd, the new lounge is set to play a key role in enhancing the airport’s support services and improving the travel experience for international passengers.

Given Guangzhou’s growing importance as a major travel hub in Asia, Star Alliance will open a new branded lounge in the upcoming Terminal 3 of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.

At present, 10 Star Alliance member airlines operate from Guangzhou, including Air China, ANA, Asiana Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, THAI, and Turkish Airlines, offering 774 weekly departures to 50 destinations in 10 countries.

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NEW DELHI: Honeywell Automation India Limited (HAIL) (NSE: HONAUT) has secured a contract to provide its Airfield Ground Lighting (“AGL”) system for the Noida International Airport (“NIA”). These systems will provide visual guidance to aircraft, increasing safety and streamlining operations across the tarmac. 

Honeywell’s visual aids will play a crucial role in helping aircraft maneuver the tarmac in difficult weather conditions and will support landing and on-ramp safety. Honeywell’s advanced AGL uses ‘intelligent lighting’ technology, which makes the ground taxi process easier for pilots. AGL will also help pilots improve their situational awareness by automatically switching lights on and off based on information shared by aircraft surveillance and tracking systems with tower controllers.

“Noida International Airport represents a significant leap forward in advancing India’s aviation sector, and we are pleased to have secured this visionary project, ensuring the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency with our advanced technology,” said Atul Pai, Managing Director, Honeywell Automation India Limited (HAIL).

Christoph Schnellmann, CEO, of Noida International Airport said, “We are delighted to partner with Honeywell to bring their Airfield Ground Lighting system to Noida International Airport. The implementation of the state-of-the-art system will ensure superior visual guidance and operational efficiency, aligning with our mission to provide a safe and seamless experience for all airport users.”

The project covers the supply, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of Honeywell’s AGL system on runway 10L-28R and the associated taxiways at NIA. Honeywell has a broad portfolio of technologies in use at airports across India and also has end-to-end AGL system operations in the country, including design, manufacturing, assembly, installation, commissioning, and service support. 

The first phase of the airport will feature one runway and one terminal, with the capacity to handle traffic of 12 million passengers annually. Upon completion of all four development phases, the airport will be able to cater to 70 million passengers per year. 

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This open call invites photographers from around the globe to showcase their talent and be part of the Art Programme at T2, a new addition to the existing collection of artworks at the terminal. T2 has 60 commissioned artworks by 43 artists that are inspired by Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture, themed on ‘Naurasa’ or the nine emotions mentioned in Bharata’s natya shastra.

Photographers are encouraged to explore two compelling themes:

1. The Karnataka of today – showcasing hyper-local aspects and the soul of Karnataka
2. The charm and character of South India, where tradition thrives amidst rapid urbanization

Please note that only black and white images are accepted. Submissions can cover a range of subjects from rural and urban life to iconic landmarks, hidden treasures, traditional attire, vibrant festivals, captivating performing arts, and more. However, wildlife, food, selfies, self-portraits, and still-life photography are excluded from this call.

For further details and submission guidelines, please visit https://qr1.be/7JU0

Interested participants can reach out to artprogramme@bialairport.com for inquiries and submissions.

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INDIA: IndiGo, India’s preferred carrier, has announced direct connectivity between Mumbai and Ayodhya, effective January 15, 2024. These daily flights will provide travelers, with direct accessibility to Ayodhya making their journey smoother and shorter. Earlier, IndiGo announced inaugural operations from the soon-to-be-inaugurated Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport in Ayodhya from Delhi w.e.f. December 30, 2023. Subsequently, commercial operations from Delhi to Ayodhya from January 06, 2024, and from Ahmedabad to Ayodhya will commence from January 11, 2024. This expansion reinforces IndiGo’s commitment to providing customers with improved and direct flight choices to and from Ayodhya, fostering accessibility, travel, and commerce in the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo said, “We are pleased to announce direct connectivity between Ayodhya & Mumbai, in addition to Delhi and Ahmedabad. These new routes will significantly promote travel, tourism, and trade in the region, contributing to economic growth and providing tourists direct access to Ayodhya, through the 6E network across India as well as overseas. As India’s leading carrier, we remain committed to providing our customers with seamless connectivity across the country and delivering on our promise of providing affordable, on-time, courteous, and hassle-free travel experiences.”

Ayodhya stands as a city of profound historical and cultural importance in India. For centuries, it has been a cornerstone of religious devotion, serving as the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama. The city boasts a plethora of renowned ancient temples, ghats, and sacred sites that draw pilgrims and tourists from across the globe. Among these landmarks, the upcoming Ram Mandir holds a prominent place.

Customers who wish to plan their travel can book tickets via our official website www.goIndiGo.in. The introduction of these flights will further bolster the airline’s domestic connectivity.

Flight schedule:

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• Eligible Federal Bank cardholders will also have additional access to over 1,200 international airport lounges and travel experiences through Collinson’s LoungeKey^TM program.

MUMBAI: Federal Bank in association with Collinson, owner, and operator of Priority PassTM Access India, a dedicated airport experiences program for India, and  LoungeKey^TM, an international digital travel experiences program, announces a new program that offers the Bank’s customers access to premium airport lounges and travel experiences.

This partnership will enable eligible Federal Bank cardholders (with payment cards issued across any payment network brand – Mastercard, Visa, and Rupay) to enjoy complimentary access to over 50 premium airport lounges and travel experiences across all major cities in India, simply by tapping or swiping their payment card on entry. Additionally, eligible Federal Bank cardholders will also have access to over 1,200 international airport lounges and travel experiences through Collinson’s LoungeKey^TM program. Depending on their card type, eligible cardholders will be entitled to between two and four complimentary lounge visits per annum.

With India experiencing a positive travel rebound over and above pre-COVID levels, this partnership with Federal Bank is perfectly timed to better support its cardholders during their upcoming travels.

The premium benefit is also highly relevant, with travelers having expressed that they are willing to pay more for experiences that make their journeys more comfortable, such as airport lounge access. A recent Collinson study surveying over 5,400 frequent travelers across seven Asia Pacific markets (1,063 of which were India-based respondents) found that 87% of travelers in India expect airport lounge access as a premium card benefit. 55% said they felt ‘rewarded’; while a further 52% ‘feel valued as a customer’ when they are provided with lounge access. Indian travelers also valued other travel experiences, such as dining discounts, lifestyle and wellness benefits such as sleep pods, and having access to a well-being and fitness app, the study found.

Speaking on the partnership, Sumit Prakash, Country Director, India, and South Asia at Collinson, said: “With the Indian market rapidly approaching full travel recovery in both the domestic and international segments, we are delighted to be partnering with Federal Bank to enhance their customers’ travel experience. We are looking forward to welcoming Federal Bank cardholders to enjoy both our local and international network of airport lounges and travel experiences.”

Chitrabhanu KG, Senior Vice President & Country Head- Retail Asset & Cards, at Federal Bank, said, “At Federal Bank, we’re delighted to offer this program to our valued cardholders that provide seamless, integrated travel experiences at the tap of a card. Through our partnership with Collinson, not only are we excited that our customers will be able to enjoy premium airport lounges and travel experiences in India and abroad; but we also believe that this easy access to enhanced travel experiences will be greatly appreciated by our customers.”

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