June 9, 2026

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Air India opened bookings under hub-and-spoke model from Varanasi

Delhi, 9th June 2026: Air India today opened bookings for its first flights under the Government of India’s hub-and-spoke model, introducing these as ‘Easy Connect’ flights. This is intended to facilitate travellers from cities beyond major hubs to drop baggage and complete immigration at origin airport and travel seamlessly to destinations across the world. Air India’s new Easy Connect flights will commence from Varanasi from 25 June 2026 onwards. The airlines will drive a phased rollout of Easy Connect flights across multiple cities in the months ahead to operationalise seamless international connectivity from India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities at scale. What hub-and-spoke flights mean for travellers Under the hub-and-spoke model, ‘spoke’ cities such as Varanasi are connected to major ‘hub’ airports like Delhi, from where passengers can seamlessly access Air India’s extensive global network. This coordinated structure allows passengers from non-metro cities to connect efficiently to multiple international destinations through a single hub, with optimised schedules and a smooth transit experience. At the heart of the model, designed and implemented by Air India in close coordination with industry stakeholders, is a significantly simplified and more intuitive international travel experience: Through check-in to final destination: Travellers from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities such as Varanasi can check in at their home airport all the way through to their final international destination, with no need to collect or re-check baggage at the hub airport (e.g. Delhi). Immigration at origin: Travellers will complete international immigration formalities at their originating airport, avoiding queues and processing at the hub. Seamless international transit via ‘hub’ airport: Passengers will transit through hub airports like Delhi as international travellers, making connections faster and more efficient. Importantly, travellers also benefit from a familiar and comfortable transit environment within India, avoiding the complexity and unfamiliarity usually associated with transiting through foreign hub airports. Easy Connect flights from Varanasi to the world The designated Easy Connect flight from Varanasi to Delhi will operate daily as AI1111. Within four hours of arrival at Delhi, the flight is timed to provide seamless connections to 17 international destinations, including London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Milan, Rome, Zurich, Manila, Singapore, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Riyadh, and Dubai, among others. Subsequent Easy Connect flights with hub-and-spoke operations from other ‘spoke’ airports will be numbered in the ‘AI11XX’ series, creating a distinct network identity for these services. P. Balaji, Group Head – Governance, Risk, Compliance & Corporate Affairs, Air India, said: “The successful implementation of the hub-and-spoke model requires close coordination across airlines, airports, and multiple government agencies, and we are grateful for the strong collaboration that has enabled this rollout. Air India is committed to continuing to work closely with all stakeholders across the industry and the Government of India as we expand this model to more cities and phases. Together, we are building a more efficient, integrated, and globally competitive aviation ecosystem for India.” The rollout will expand to several additional cities in a phased manner over the coming months, as Air India continues to anchor and lead the implementation of this next-generation connectivity model.

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Xiamen Airlines to Host 83rd IATA AGM in 2027

Rio de Janeiro ,9th June 2026: At the International Air Transport Association (IATA) held in Rio de Janeiro, it was announced that Xiamen Airlines will host the 83rd IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) in Xiamen, China, from 30 May to 1 June 2027. “We are excited to bring the 83rd IATA AGM to China, hosted by Xiamen Airlines. China is a major player in the aviation industry. China’s airlines are among the top airlines by passenger traffic in the world. And the country is at the forefront of how technology and digitalization can be deployed to improve efficiency. Hosting the AGM in China will allow the leaders of the global aviation industry to witness first-hand the impressive development of the China market,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “Xiamen Airlines is proud to host the IATA AGM and to welcome our industry colleagues to our home base of Xiamen. China is a vast and culturally diverse country, with many dynamic cities and regions beyond its best-known gateways. Located on China’s southeast coast, Xiamen is an historical port and interface for commerce between China and the rest of the world,” said Zhao Dong, Chairman of Xiamen Airlines. “The opening of Xiang’an International Airport later this year demonstrates how Xiamen is growing its importance as a transportation and business hub. AGM guests can look forward to discovering the rich culture, warm hospitality, coastal beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle that create the distinctive spirit and vitality of Xiamen,” said Xie Bing, CEO & President of Xiamen Airlines. The decision to host the 83rd IATA AGM in China was made at the 82nd IATA AGM in Rio de Janeiro. This is the third time China will host the global gathering of aviation’s top leaders, and the first time it will be held in Xiamen. The AGM was previously held in Shanghai (2002) and Beijing (2012).

2026

Thakur Institute of Aviation: Shaping the Future of Aviation Professionals in Mumbai

The aviation industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, creating exciting career opportunities for young professionals who aspire to work in airlines, airports, customer service, and aviation operations. With the increasing demand for skilled aviation personnel, choosing the right training institute plays a crucial role in building a successful career. Among the leading aviation training institutes in Mumbai, Thakur Institute of Aviation has established itself as a trusted destination for students seeking industry-oriented aviation education and career opportunities. Located in Kandivali (East), Mumbai, Thakur Institute of Aviation (TIA) is committed to providing quality aviation training that combines theoretical knowledge with practical exposure. The institute is approved as a training partner by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and focuses on preparing students for careers in various segments of the aviation industry. Industry-Focused Aviation Courses Thakur Institute of Aviation offers specialized programs designed to meet the requirements of the modern aviation industry. The institute provides training in: Cabin Crew / Air Hostess Airport Ground Handling Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Private Pilot License (PPL) These courses are carefully structured to equip students with industry-relevant skills, communication abilities, customer service expertise, personality development, grooming standards, and operational knowledge required by airlines and airport organizations. The Cabin Crew and Air Hostess program is among the most sought-after courses at TIA. Students receive comprehensive training in passenger handling, inflight service procedures, aviation safety, emergency response, communication skills, and professional grooming. The course aims to prepare candidates for rewarding careers with domestic and international airlines. The Airport Ground Handling program focuses on airport operations, passenger services, baggage management, customer service, aviation security awareness, and airline coordination. This training enables students to pursue careers in airport operations and ground services. For aspiring pilots, TIA offers guidance and training pathways for Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and Private Pilot License (PPL) programs, helping students move closer to achieving their dream of becoming professional pilots. Practical Learning and Modern Training Infrastructure One of the key strengths of Thakur Institute of Aviation is its emphasis on practical learning. The institute believes that aviation education must go beyond classroom teaching and provide students with real-world exposure. Students benefit from hands-on practical training, industry-oriented workshops, first-aid training, grooming sessions conducted by experts, fire-fighting awareness programs, and exposure to aviation equipment and operational procedures. The institute also provides opportunities for industrial visits that help students understand the functioning of the aviation ecosystem. TIA is known for maintaining professional training standards and providing practical exposure that helps students gain confidence before entering the workforce. The focus on industry-relevant curriculum ensures that students are prepared for the expectations of recruiters and aviation employers. Experienced Faculty and Professional Development The success of any educational institution depends largely on the quality of its faculty, and Thakur Institute of Aviation takes pride in its experienced and certified trainers. Students are guided by professionals who understand the practical requirements of the aviation industry and help them develop both technical and soft skills. In addition to aviation-specific knowledge, students receive training in personality development, communication skills, interview preparation, customer service excellence, teamwork, and professional etiquette. These skills are essential for building successful careers in airlines, airports, hospitality, and customer-facing industries. Strong Placement Support and Career Assistance Placement assistance is one of the most important factors students consider while selecting an aviation institute. Thakur Institute of Aviation has established a dedicated Placement Assistance Cell that works closely with students and recruiters to facilitate employment opportunities after course completion. The institute conducts placement support activities, interview preparation sessions, and on-campus recruitment drives. Through its industry connections, TIA helps students connect with airlines, airport service providers, hospitality organizations, travel companies, and customer service employers. Over the years, students from TIA have secured opportunities with reputed aviation and airport organizations. The institute’s placement page highlights successful student placements with leading industry employers, reflecting its commitment to helping students launch their careers. The combination of practical training, industry exposure, and dedicated placement assistance provides students with a strong foundation for professional success. Many students have shared positive experiences about the confidence, skills, and career opportunities they gained through their training at TIA. Why Choose Thakur Institute of Aviation? Students choose Thakur Institute of Aviation for several reasons: NSDC-approved training partner Industry-relevant aviation curriculum Experienced and certified faculty Practical and hands-on learning approach Personality development and grooming programs Industrial visits and real-world exposure Dedicated placement assistance Strong industry network and career support Focus on global aviation opportunities Convenient location in Mumbai’s educational hub at Kandivali (East Conclusion As India’s aviation industry continues to expand, the demand for trained aviation professionals is expected to grow significantly. For students seeking a career in cabin crew services, airport operations, ground handling, or pilot training, Thakur Institute of Aviation offers a comprehensive platform to acquire industry-ready skills and professional confidence. With quality education, practical training, experienced faculty, and dedicated placement assistance, Thakur Institute of Aviation continues to play an important role in shaping the next generation of aviation professionals in Mumbai and beyond. For aspiring aviation professionals, TIA represents a pathway to exciting career opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.  

FOREWORD

Dear Reader’s,

 

The current edition of Aviation World has covered many areas of Aerospace & Defence based on the latest development in the sector. The front cover highlights three different images, first for the Union Civil Aviation Minister ….. who is leading from the front to steer Indian Civil Aviation sector to witness one of the most interesting phases. He is also facing most tumultuous timing due to the ongoing financial stress in the Aviation sector due to ATF rising cost and long airspace restrictions resulting in mounting losses for Indian carriers. Despite of all the ground level challenges,the minister is addressing new things on regular basis which keeps the sector motivated. We have featured many such developmental works in this edition done under his guidance which will be interesting to read.

Our lead story on “ The West War” is another important feature which covers the ground level reality of the challenges faced by the Aviation sector. Its though time ahead and we believe it will pass soon .

There are features on Regional connectivity and MoCA revised rules on the UDAN 2.0 and how its going to transform the flying experience within India.

In this edition, we have covered topics on MRO,Various Policy changes,Sea Plane Operations by SkyHop Aviation, TATA-Airbus joint project on C295 military aircraft under Make In India which is expected to roll out soon and many other interesting contents which will be good to read.

We are covering Farnborough International Airshow 2026 from 20-24July 2026 in London and our next edition will be based on the same event.For features, you may contact our team on priority basis.

 

Happy Reading!

NEWSLETTER

Aviation World Magazine is India’s premier aviation magazine and has been actively supporting the development of the Indian and global civil aviation sector. We started our journey in year 2015 and its been 12 years now and the response and acceptance is really encouraging. Thanks to all our associates and writers who remained with us in our progressive journey.

We have started 2026 on a very positive note and we look forward to increase our footprints to more locations and induct many more new companies in our campaign.. Do write to us at : editor@aviationworld.in

Disclaimer

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