Airports

Abu Dhabi,02 Jan 2025: Etihad Airways opened its new Etihad U.S. Preclearance Lounge at Zayed International Airport on 30 December, enhancing the travel experience for passengers flying to the United States. Located steps away from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility, the new lounge provides eligible guests with a serene space to unwind after completing their U.S. entry formalities and before boarding their flight. The thoughtfully designed facility features a refined selection of beverages and light dining options, complementing Etihad’s premium travel experience. Select flights offer the convenience of direct boarding from the lounge, enhancing the seamless journey. “This new lounge marks another milestone in our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests,” said John Wright, Chief Operations & Guest Officer at Etihad Airways. “By combining our premium lounge service with the convenience of U.S. Preclearance, we’re offering our guests an elevated journey through Abu Dhabi before they even board their flight. Zayed International is the only Middle East hub to offer this time-saving service.” The U.S. Preclearance Lounge welcomes eligible guests travelling in The Residence, First or Business, as well as Platinum and Emerald Etihad Guest members. Access is also available for purchase, subject to availability. For a comprehensive premium experience, eligible guests are invited to begin their journey at Etihad’s acclaimed First or Business Class Lounge in the main terminal before proceeding to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility approximately 90 minutes before their flight. Flying with Etihad Airways to the U.S. offers the unique advantage of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility, one of only a few such facilities worldwide. By completing all U.S. customs and immigration formalities before boarding in Abu Dhabi, guests arrive in the States as domestic passengers, saving valuable time upon arrival. Guests can simply collect their bags and go, or proceed seamlessly to their connecting flights. Etihad currently serves four U.S. destinations with nonstop flights to Boston, Chicago, New York, and Washington D.C. The airline will also launch services to Atlanta in July 2025, further strengthening its commitment to the North American market.

Philadelphia,December 17, 2024: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has been recognised amongst the 6 best airports in the US for finding good prices by Skyscanner. The airportcontinues to enhance its services with exciting new updates including the launch of Park PHL for improved parking, hosting the American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Arts in the Airport Workshop, and celebrating the importance of art in airport spaces. Park PHL launched Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) recently launched Park PHL, a new streamlined program for convenient parking in collaboration with the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA), offering online booking, prior on-site parking options, garage pre-booking, valet parking, and other options for travellers. With this, comes the airport’s first valet parking service, Park PHL Valet, launched on November 18 as well as Park PHL Economy, the program’s first phase for the Economy Parking Lot that kicked off on October 31.Park PHL allows travellers to reserve and pay in advance for parking at PHL’s Economy Parking Lot or avail of the new valet service.Park PHL Reserve is expected to expand in early 2025 and includes Park PHL Everyday utilizing the airport’s onsite garages. Learning and Networking Art Workshop In other updates, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) recently hosted the American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Arts in the Airport Workshop, a longstanding association of more than two decades and the only event dedicated to airport art offering opportunities for learning and networking to professionals who oversee and manage art programs in airports. PHL has hosted three of these sessions, showcasing a meaningful connection between art and travel. The city of Philadelphia is widely known for its impressive street and public art and is home to over 30 universities, colleges, and renowned art schools. Philadelphia’s art community and background in education have helped foster a rich culture around art that attracts art lovers from around the world. The workshop at PHL showcased Philadelphia’s vibrant art with sessions at Percy Street Project, Tattooed Mom, and The Clay Studio. The workshop also included a PHL exhibition tour led by PHL Collections and Exhibitions Curator Helen Cahng that highlighted the importance of art in elevating airport spaces. Accolades In addition to these newly added services, Philadelphia International Airport is also considered among the 6 best airports in the US for finding good prices on flight tickets as per Skyscanner. A hub for both premium international airlines as well as low-cost carriers, PHL Airport is a priority choice, particularly for international travellers travelling to the East Coast.

New Delhi, 15th December, 2024: At the occasion of 100 years of glorious service of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI Airport), Kolkata, a logo was launched by the Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu.The event was graced by Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary, MoCA; Vipin Kumar, Chairman, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and other senior officials of MoCA and AAI. This exclusive logo celebrating 100 years of Kolkata Airport symbolizes the progressive spirit of the city and airport’s evolution as a sought-after aviation hub. Speaking at the logo unveiling ceremony, Hon’ble Civil Aviation Minister said, “This is a proud moment for all of us, where we are continuing the legacy built by our nation and drawing inspiration from it for future achievements. The airport has catered to crores of passengers and stood as a vital gateway for Bengal and the country through significant historical milestones. Our Hon’ble Prime Minister always says very dearly, ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi’, so this is a proud moment for us.” He further added, “In the last ten years, especially for civil aviation, the way airports have expanded, the way passenger capacity has expanded, airline fleets have grown, and cargo operations have surged, all verticals related to civil aviation have pushed boundaries under the leadership of our Prime Minister. We are now the third largest domestic aviation hub in the whole world. And now, we need to take it forward, break barriers once again, level up the civil aviation sector, and achieve the goal of becoming the number one domestic hub in the world.” He also mentioned that as a part of the transformative initiatives by MoCA and AAI, a budget-friendly café named “UDAN YatriCafe” will be launched soon at the NSCBI Airport, Kolkata as a pilot project. The café will offer a curated menu with affordable pricing, ensuring that passengers have access to quality food at a cost-effective rate, enhancing their travel experience without compromising on value. A series of initiatives are also being planned including release of commemorative stamp and coin to honor the 100 years of Kolkata Airport; launch of coffee table book showcasing India’s cultural heritage reflected in modern airport architecture. Established in 1924 as Dum Dum Airport, Kolkata Airport pioneered Indian aviation by hosting the Bengal Flying Club (1929), India’s first jet service hub (1964) and opening its first dedicated airline cargo terminal in 1975. The Airport was renamed in 1995 as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport to honor the revolutionary leader. A new integrated terminal building was inaugurated in 2013 where the architectural style blends this region’s heritage with modern amenities, cementing the Airport’s status as the gateway to east and northeast India.NSCBI Airport is equipped to serve 26 million passengers annually and caters to around 49 domestic and 15 International destinations. As the Kolkata airport is set to celebrate its centenary on 21st December, 2024, it symbolizes the city’s journey through a century of growth and transformation. From its humble origins to its place among the world’s great aviation hubs, Kolkata Airport has been a bridge between people, cultures, and nations.

Abu Dhabi,18th Nov 2024: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, completed a year of operations at its home in Terminal A, Zayed International Airport. Since the full transition to the new terminal in November 2023, the airline has significantly expanded its operations from 1,336 weekly flights to 1,732, and connects Abu Dhabi to more than 80 destinations worldwide through its extensive network. Operating from the world-class Terminal A, Etihad has played a crucial role in Zayed International Airport’s recognition as the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East for scheduled seat capacity on international flights, with capacity to handle up to 45 million passengers annually. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “In just one year, Terminal A has transformed the travel experience for our guests and supported Etihad’s ambitious growth plans. This world-class facility has enabled us to enhance our service standards significantly, offering greater comfort and convenience while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub. As we continue to expand our network and fleet, Terminal A provides the perfect platform for Etihad’s next chapter of growth.” The airline’s premium offering has reached new heights with its flagship First and Business class lounges, spanning three floors. These exclusive spaces feature the Be Relax Spa, which is open to all passengers, with complimentary treatments for First Class and Residence guests. The lounges showcase the Liwan Global Dining restaurant with live cooking stations and buffet, and the iconic Constellation Bar adorned with a 25-metre glass lighting sculpture depicting the Abu Dhabi skyline. The lounges offer direct boarding access from three gates and include dedicated family spaces, relaxation rooms with day beds, showers, and VIP rooms for First class lounge guests. In addition, for arriving Guests, the Etihad Chauffeur waiting area offers shower facilities and grab-and-go snacks – allowing Guests to refresh after their flight before availing the Etihad chauffeur service. Enhancing the guest experience has been a key focus throughout Etihad’s first year at Terminal A. Guests using self-service kiosks with biometric face recognition can complete their bag drop in as little as 30 seconds. The new terminal’s biometric technology, available at check-in, boarding gate, and immigration touchpoints today, has ambitious plans for future roll out further supporting a smooth and swift journey for passengers. The recent transition of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility to Terminal A further enhances the passenger experience, making Abu Dhabi the only US preclearance facility in the Middle East and Asia. This service allows Etihad’s guests to complete all US immigration and customs formalities before departure, enabling seamless arrival in the United States. Following continued fleet expansion in 2024 and with more aircraft joining in 2025, Etihad Airways continues its network expansion strategy, introducing new destinations across the globe from its home at Zayed International Airport.

Croatia, 11th Nov 2024: Global baggage handling specialist, Alstef Group has been awarded a significant contract to expand the baggage handling system at Zagreb International Airport, a key infrastructure project that reinforces a decade-long partnership with Croatia’s busiest airport. This new project builds upon Alstef’s initial installation of the airport’s baggage handling system in 2014, which has since been managed and maintained by an onsite Alstef team to ensure continuous, reliable service. The expansion will introduce a new check-in island equipped with 15 check-in desks, allowing the airport to accommodate a growing number of passengers efficiently. Additionally, Alstef will integrate an extra screening line along with a full suite of conveyors to seamlessly connect the new check-in area with the existing screening and make-up carousel systems. The enhancements also include the construction of a new steel platform to support the expanded infrastructure, alongside upgrades to Alstef’s BAGWARE SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and SAC (System Automation Control) systems to guarantee peak performance and operational stability. Scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2025, this project underscores Alstef’s commitment to delivering innovative, scalable solutions that drive efficiency and support growth at Zagreb International Airport.

New Delhi, 03 November,2024: Airports Authority of India observed Vigilance Awareness week 2024 from 28th October 2024 to 03rdNovember 2024 with the theme “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity” across all its airports and establishments. Integrity Pledge was administered by Dr. H. Srinivas, Member (HR) to senior officers of the organization in an event held on 28th October 2024 at AAI Corporate Headquarter, Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Safdarjung Airport, New Delhi. Nikhil Kumar Kanodia, IPS, Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO), AAI was also present in the above event along with other Board Members of AAI namely Sharad Kumar, Member (Operations), Pankaj Malhotra, Member (Finance), Anil Kumar Gupta, Member (Planning) along with other senior officers of AAI. Integrity Pledge was administered by the Member (HR) to 40 Officers (approx.)on this occasion. Member (HR) laid emphasis on importance of Vigilance in effective functioning of the organization. He called upon the employees to participate in the activities of VAW 2024 with earnestness and sincerity while appreciating the exemplary work done by Vigilance Directorate, AAI. On this occasion, Nikhil Kumar Kanodia (IPS)CVO, AAI mentioned about the works done by the Vigilance Directorate in last two Months as a prelude to Vigilance Awareness Week 2024 on Preventive Vigilance with focus on five areas as directed by Central Vigilance Commission. He brought out that AAI is marching ahead with resoluteness for “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity”. He called upon all the employees to actively participate in the movement against corruption to achieve the mandate of the commission in letter & spirit. During the Vigilance Awareness Week, various activities like elocution, debate, essay, quiz, drawing slogan competition, walkathons and Gram Sabhas were conducted for citizens and employees across all airports and establishments to sensitize them regarding importance of vigilance and evils of corruption. Integrity pledge counters were setup at airports to administer the integrity pledge to all stakeholders.

New Delhi, 28th October, 2024: Vipin Kumar, an IAS officer of 1996 batch, Bihar cadre took over as Chairman of Airports Authority of India, today. Prior to this appointment, Shri Kumar was serving as Additional Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India.During his tenure at Ministry of Education, Government of India, he was looking after Samagra Shiksha Scheme, National Education Policy-2020, PM-SHRI Scheme and other important assignments. During his posting in Bihar, he worked as District Magistrate in many districts of the state. He was also the Chairman of Bihar Bridge Construction Corporation; Managing Director of Bihar Milk Cooperative Federation (SUDHA) and Director, Mid-Day Meal Scheme-Bihar. Vipin Kumar holds a degree in Electronics & Communication Engineering. In his new assignment as the Chairman of the Airports Authority of India,Kumar will lead efforts to achieve AAI’s organizational goals of developing world-class airport infrastructure, leading air navigation services and providing top-of-the-line passenger facilities across the country. His role will be instrumental in charting the roadmap of Indian Aviation Sector towards realising the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat-2047.

New Delhi,21st October,2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Development of New Terminal Building and allied works at Varanasi Airport, New Civil Enclave of Agra, Darbhanga, and Bagdogra and inaugurated New Airports at Rewa, Sarsawaand Ambikapur on 20th October, 2024 in Varanasi,Uttar Pradesh. Development of New Terminal Building and allied works at Varanasi, and New Civil Enclave at Agra, Darbhanga and Bagdogra Airports is being undertaken at the total cost of Rs.5910 Crore. Anandiben Patel, Governor, Uttar Pradesh,Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation were also present during the ceremony in Varanasi.The other dignitaries included Governors, Chief Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers of respective states and Murlidhar Mohol, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation participated in the event virtually. The three new airports of Sarsawa in in Uttar Pradesh,Rewa in Madhya Pradesh &Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh have been developed at a total cost of Rs. 225.88 Crore, having combined capacity to serve around 10 lakh passengers annually. These airports are fully equipped with all passenger facilities including check-in counters, baggage conveyors and sufficient concessionaire area while boasting various sustainability features. While addressing the gathering, Prime Minister underlined that the government has initiated a huge campaign for infrastructural development in the country in the last 10 years with two main objectives of improving services for the people and creating employment opportunities for the youth through investments.The designs of all seven airports are influenced and derived from the common elements of heritage structures of that state and city, thus reflecting the local culture and highlighting the heritage of the region. On this occasion,highlighting about these projects,Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu,Union Minister of Civil Aviation said that Varanasi airport currently serves 30 lakh passengers annually which will cross the figure of 3 Crore by 2047, for which a new terminal will be built at a cost of Rs. 2870 crore. He also emphasized about the ‘UDAN Yojana’ Regional Connectivity Scheme, under which Sarsawa, Rewa and Ambikapur airports have been developed. As a result of these projects, the air connectivity of the nation will be strengthened, the economy will grow and new employment opportunities will be created. The inauguration and foundation stone laying of these Seven Airport projects worth more than Rs. 6,100 Crore, places India’s civil aviation industry at the forefront of the nation’s economic growth and solidifies its role as a major player in the global aviation landscape. With these new airports and terminal buildings, air connectivity in the country will witness an increase which in turn will spur tourism, business, education and generate employment which is vital to the regions’ economic prosperity. It will also strengthen the economy of the states over the long haul, boosting productivity through its positive impact on businesses. Source: PIB

Delhi, 14th October, 2024: Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has recently announced the inauguration of its new First and Business Class Check-In Lounge at Terminal 1 of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance the travel experience for Saudia’s premium guests, including travelers from India, as part of the airline’s commitment to luxury and exceptional service. A New Standard in Travel Comfort Officially inaugurated by H.E. Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, the lounge is a luxurious sanctuary offering exclusive amenities tailored for elite travelers. With 10 dedicated check-in counters and comfortable seating areas, the lounge ensures a seamless and relaxed start to every journey. Guests are welcomed with traditional Saudi coffee and dates, embodying the warm hospitality that Saudia is known for. Tailored Services for Indian Travelers As Saudia continues to strengthen its ties with the Indian market, this new lounge represents a significant enhancement to the overall travel experience. Travelers can expect personalized services that cater to their specific needs, ensuring comfort and convenience from the moment they arrive at the airport. The lounge also features a dedicated café counter offering a variety of hot and cold beverages, perfect for travelers looking to unwind before their flight. Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 The opening of the First and Business Class Check-In Lounge is part of Saudia’s broader strategy to establish Jeddah as a true aviation hub, optimizing connectivity and transit traffic. This initiative supports Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to attract 330 million visits to the Kingdom, welcoming travelers from around the world. Commitment to Premium Travel Experience Riyadh M. Alhudhaif, General Manager of the Jeddah Hub, stated, “Unveiling Saudia’s new First and Business Class Check-In Lounge marks a landmark milestone in luxury travel, redefining the airport experience for our guests. This exclusive sanctuary at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport offers more than just a premium check-in experience; it’s an immersion into Saudi hospitality and culture. With personalized services, unparalleled comfort, and stunning artistic displays, we are elevating travel to new heights and cementing Saudia’s position as a global aviation leader.” The launch of the lounge complements Saudia’s extensive investment in enhancing guest experiences, which includes an extensive seat retrofit program, the installation of advanced In-Flight Entertainment screens, the launch of the beta version of the Travel Companion powered by AI and high-speed in-flight connectivity that will be implemented across its fleet. These initiatives are designed to provide travelers with a world-class journey from start to finish. Experience the Luxury with Saudia Saudia invites Indian travelers to experience this new level of luxury and comfort. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, our premium services are designed to make every moment of your journey unforgettable.