Airports

Chennai, 28th Feb 2025: Union Minister for Civil Aviation,Ram Mohan Naidu, inaugurated the UDAN Yatri Cafe at Chennai Airport, marking the second such facility under this initiative. The first UDAN Yatri Cafe was inaugurated on December 19, 2024, at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the historic airport. The Kolkata Cafe has been a resounding success, with travelers expressing high satisfaction with the quality, taste and cost of the offerings. Following immense passenger demand, the initiative is now being expanded nationwide. At the Chennai Airport, strategically located in the pre-check area of the T1 domestic terminal, the cafe will offer all connected passengers access to hygienic refreshments at nominal prices. Ram Mohan Naidu said, “The UDAN Yatri Cafe is a testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of inclusive flying, making air travel more convenient, accessible and affordable for all. Following its successful launch at Kolkata Airport, there has been strong demand from travelers to introduce this facility at other airports. After the eastern gateway of Kolkata, we are proud to bring the UDAN Yatri Cafe to the southern gateway, Chennai Airport which is one of the oldest and now the fifth busiest airport in the country, handling over 22 million passengers annually. We are committed to enhance passenger convenience here and with the Digi Yatra and Trusted Traveler Program E-gates, we are also providing a seamless, end-to-end digital travel experience.” Minister Ram Mohan Naidu also shared that the 86,135 sq.m. expansion of Terminal 2 is underway to enhance international operations. Additionally, the refurbishment of Terminals 1 and 4 is progressing with an investment of over Rs.75 crore, while a comprehensive traffic flow management system, costing ₹19 crore, is being implemented to ease city-side congestion. Beyond infrastructure, Chennai International Airport is dedicated to passenger convenience. Free buggy services for senior citizens and pregnant women, childcare rooms, medical facilities and modern lounges ensure that every effort is made to provide a comfortable travel experience. In the media interaction, Minister also highlighted that the Chennai Airport operates entirely on green energy and houses a 1.5 MW solar power plant as part of its commitment to environment. The UDAN Yatri Cafe aligns with the spirit of the UDAN scheme aimed at democratizing air travel and modernizing airport infrastructure. The event was attended by Dr T R B Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Tamil Nadu, senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, AAI and Chennai Airport, marking another milestone in the Ministry’s mission to enhance passenger experience and connectivity.

Delhi, 17th February 2025: Alstef Group has completed the comprehensive baggage handling system and screening upgrade at Henri Coanda International Airport, located in Otopeni, just north of Bucharest, Romania. This project, which began two years ago following a public tender by Bucharest National Airports Company (CNAB), marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of the airport’s operation. The upgrade included the installation of 56 new check-in conveyors, 12 self-service bag drops, an outbound sortation system with five Standard 3 screening machines, two new make-up carousels, and a transfer connection to the domestic terminal. In addition to the technology upgrades, Alstef Group also managed the associated civil works, HVAC, and other infrastructure expansions to ensure seamless project execution. “This was our first collaboration with CNAB,” says Pierre Boussard, Project Manager for Alstef Group. “We are proud of the results and are excited to continue our partnership with a five-year operations and maintenance contract now in place.” Henri Coandă International Airport is Romania’s largest and busiest airport, and this successful project marks Alstef Group’s expanding presence in Eastern Europe.

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.