In a major development for air travelers under the Biden-Harris administration, the US Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a mandate for airlines to credit automatic cash refunds to passengers in the event of flight cancelations, significant flight schedule/itinerary changes, and other specific circumstances (defined in the mandate). Termed as ‘final rule by DOT’, the mandate requires airlines to honor passengers’ right to a quick refund in the below scenarios, as evident from what US Transportation Secretary said, “Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them – without headaches or haggling.”

PC: IndianEagle.com

Canceled or significantly changed flights: Passengers are entitled to a refund if their flight is canceled or significantly changed, and if they do not accept alternative travel arrangement or travel credits/vouchers offered. As defined by the DOT rule for airlines, “significant changes” to a flight include departure or arrival delays beyond 3 hours domestically and 6 hours internationally.

DOT considers departures or arrivals from a different airport than the actual one booked by the passengers as significant changes to a flight. An increase in the number of connections (for instance, changing an itinerary from a one-stop flight to a two-stop flight) is also defined as a significant change to flights. If airlines modify an itinerary to provide connection(s) at different airports than the ones specified in the itinerary at the time of booking, passengers can refuse this significant change and request a cash refund.

A downgrade to the passenger’s ticketed class of travel, to say from business class to premium economy or standard economy, comes under “significant changes” to a flight, according to DOT. A change of planes, which makes a flight(s) “less accessible or accommodating to a person with a disability” is also a significant change, and therefore, a must consideration for a refund against cancelation.

Significantly delayed baggage return: The DOT rule for automatic cash refunds enables passengers to claim a refund of their checked bag fee if they don’t get the checked baggage within 12 hours of their domestic flight arriving at the gate, and 15-30 hours of their international arrival, depending on the length of the flight.

Extra services not provided: The Department of Transportation requires airlines to refund the fee that a passenger pays for Wi-Fi, seat selection, or any other extra service – if they fail to provide the paid service.

DOT underlines a standard refund policy for airlines   

A standard refund policy for airlines operating to, from and through the United States is the other principal objective of the DOT final rule. DOT standardizes the refund process for airlines – which was otherwise cumbersome and full of hiccups such as making a formal refund request, filling out extra digital paperwork, waiting for hours on the phone. Below are the refund norms that airlines are directed to comply with:

Automatic: Airlines must automatically credit refund amounts without passengers having to explicitly request a refund in case of flight cancelation.

Prompt: Airlines must issue refunds within seven business days of refunds becoming due to credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.

Cash or original form of payment: Refund amounts must be credited to passengers in cash or whatever original payment method they used to book flight tickets, like credit card or airline miles. Airlines may not enforce vouchers, travel credits, or other forms of compensation unless the passenger gives his/her explicit consent to accept alternative compensation.

Full amount: Airlines must provide full refunds of the ticket purchase price, minus the value of any portion of transportation already used (partially used tickets). “The refunds must include all government-imposed taxes and fees and airline-imposed fees, regardless of whether the taxes or fees are refundable to airlines,” said DOT.

DOT’s final rule directs airlines to quickly communicate to passengers about their right to a refund of the ticket and extra service fees, as well as any related policies in the event of flight cancelation.

The post All about US DOT’s Final Rule for Airlines: Biden Empowers Travelers to Get Cash Refunds Quickly and Automatically appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Does your US-India itinerary have a significant layover in a third country? Turning it into a pleasant sightseeing spree is easier and better than lazing around at a transit airport. With airlines offering transit stopovers and city tours, you can gift a mini vacation to yourself or your family during your upcoming trip to India this summer. While stopovers extend over 24 hours or more, transit city tours come in various packages at subsidized rates during a layover of 5 to 10 hours.

Some airlines like Turkish Airlines offer it as a free add-on, whereas some airlines like Emirates and Qatar Airways offer it for less. Some airlines like Singapore Airlines offer guided trips to popular tourist sites within the easily commutable radius of transit airports. What makes major airlines’ transit city tours more tempting to Indians and US citizens is the visa-free entry or visa waiver or visa on arrival or easy-to-obtain e-visa to the countries that US-India flights of those airlines transit through.

Fly Emirates and Explore Dubai during a layover   

Dubai International Airport is the best of all transit hubs with layover tours for Indians booking Emirates flights tickets to India/USA. Dubai, a most happening city offering the Arabian hospitality, luxury activities, and desert safaris, can best be explored during a stopover of up to 48 hours. With a customized tour package of Dubai Experience from Emirates Airlines or its air-ticketing partners including IndianEagle.com, you can turn your stopover into an amazing mini holiday en route to India or USA. A stopover package offers hotel accommodation with 24-hr check-in and check-out, and exclusive deals for theme parks, water parks, desert safari, etc.

If a Dubai stopover does not fit into your US-India travel plans, you can go out for a short sightseeing tour given minimum 8 hours of connection time at Dubai Airport in your itinerary. You can visit the world’s tallest skyscraper Burj Khalifa and the nearby Dubai Fountain in the downtown that Dubai Metro provides seamless connection to from the airport every 10 minutes. Or, you can head to Dubai Miracle Garden, one of the most popular tourist places in Dubai, during a short airport layover.

Indians need a visa to tour Dubai, whereas US citizens can have a visa-free stopover in Dubai. Check our details of Emirates Airlines’ pre-approved visa on arrival facility for Indians with a valid US visa or Green Card.

Fly Turkish Airlines and Tour Istanbul for Free

Planning your travel to India or USA via Istanbul? You may be eligible for Turkish Airlines’ free Istanbul City tour or stopover program depending on the layover duration in your itinerary. Irrespective of your economy or business class travel on Turkish Airlines flights to India/USA, you can explore Istanbul during a layover of at least 6 hours. Those with a 20-hour layover are eligible for a complimentary hotel stay in Istanbul. Considering your layover in Istanbul, you can choose one of the eight packages of the Touristanbul program.

Notably, Türkiye is a visa-free destination for US Citizens. Check out our exclusive guide on Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul stopover program to know how to apply for it, what documents are required, what tourist sites to visit, perks of the program, details of free hotel accommodation, etc.

Turn Your Changi Airport Layover into a Free Singapore Tour

You can make the most of a layover at Changi International Airport, and that too for free while flying with Singapore Airlines. Changi Airport offers free transit tours to travelers with at least 5.5 hours of layover.  If you have more than 24 hours of layover time to kill, you might want to consider signing up for one of the Changi Stopover Packages. Changi Airport offers you free transit tours in three different categories: Heritage tour (runs twice a day); City Sights Tour (runs three times a day) and Changi Precinct Tour (runs two times a day). Any tour lasts 2.5 hours.

Each of the tours is unique in some or the other way. The heritage tour walks you through the history and architecture of the colonial era in Chinatown and Little India. Meanwhile, the City Sights Tour offers a much contemporary experience of the city and its modern ‘Singaporean’ architecture comprising magnificent sites like the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands among others. And the Changi Precinct Tour takes you to the heart of the city, immersing you in a unique experience of the local lifestyle. It also includes a visit to the quaint Changi village, which is a favorite getaway for the locals.

Our exclusive guide on free Singapore City tours for Indian travelers comes in handy with such details as eligibility norms, how to register, transit visa requirement, etc.  

Fly Qatar Airways and Add Doha Sightseeing to Your Itinerary

Among the best airline stopover programs, Qatar Airways’ Doha stopover will make your travel between USA and India more enjoyable at no additional airfare. More than 12 hours of connection time at Hamad International Airport makes you eligible for a Doha City tour; however, it requires one-night accommodation at a 4-star or 5-star hotel. Qatar Airways’ destination management wing, Discover Qatar offers cost-effective Doha stopover packages – Standard, Premium, and Luxury – at bundle rates starting from $14 per night for standard 4-star accommodation, $23 for premium 5-star accommodation, and $81 for 5-star luxury accommodation.

If your US-India trip with Qatar Airways cannot accommodate a Doha stopover, you can go for a short Doha sightseeing tour during a layover of 6-8 hours at Hamad Airport. Interestingly, both Indian nationals and US citizens can obtain a visa waiver on arrival at Hamad Airport if they have a passport valid for minimum 3 months and a confirmed flight ticket (s) for onward or return journey. Check out our exclusive guide on Doha stopover and transit tours, alongside our partner Qatar Airways’ best fare deals for India and USA.

Fly Japan Airlines and Enjoy a Multicity Stopover

Among the best international stopover-friendly airlines, JAL lets you book multicity itineraries from USA to Delhi and Bangalore so you can visit more than one transit city at no extra airfares. If your connecting flight is from Kansas International Airport, you can explore Osaka City, from where it takes 15-20 minutes to reach Kyoto by a high-speed train. With a Japan Explorer Pass, you can travel by air from one place to the other within JAL Airlines’ domestic network at much affordable fares.

If Tokyo Haneda or Narita is the connecting airport in your US-India itinerary of JAL Airlines, you can explore both Haneda and Narita City, during a long layover of 6 hours of more. Interestingly, Narita International Airport offers free tour English tour guides to travelers as part of the transit tour program. The English-speaking tour guides help you discover and experience the local culture and history within a budget. Though the tour guides are free, you need to pay transportation charges, entrance fees, and other expenses.

Check out whether Indians and US citizens need a visa for transit stopover in Tokyo/Narita and Japan Airlines’ best flight deals for India/USA.

Fly Etihad Airways and have Abu Dhabi Stopover for Less 

Abu Dhabi is one of the best transit airports with stopovers in the Middle East for passengers of eligible Etihad itineraries for US to India travel. Interestingly, your boarding pass for Etihad flights doubles up as the Abu Dhabi pass loaded with deals and discounts on sightseeing and dining in the UAE capital city. Since itineraries with a layover of 24 hours or more at Zayed International Airport are eligible for the Abu Dhabi stopover, advance booking of stay at any of Etihad Airways’ partner hotels (available at discounted rates) is a must. A single-entry transit visa to Abu Dhabi costs US$ 10.

Indian nationals need a single-entry transit visa for a stopover of 8-48 hours in Abu Dhabi, whereas US citizens and those having a Canadian/Mexican/UK passport can obtain a free UAE visa on arrival at Zayed International Airport (AUH). Rather than booking the stopover, you can turn even an 8-hour layover in Abu Dhabi into an exciting trip to Yas Island spread over 25 square kms. The island has the world’s fastest rollercoaster and one of the world’s best waterparks. Ferrari World on Yas Island is the world’s first Ferrari-themed indoor park.

Traveling on Finnair? Explore Helsinki during a Layover

Booking Finnair flight tickets to India or USA is an opportunity to explore Helsinki City in Europe. A layover of 6 to 24 hours is ideal for a sightseeing tour in the Finnish capital. Indian passport holders may need a Schengen tourist visa (C category) to enter and tour Helsinki during a layover at Helsinki International Airport. A most happening destination for art connoisseurs, culture buffs, and foodies! Interestingly, Finland is adjudged as the happiest country in the world. Your passport must be valid for 90 days or more following your departure on the connecting flight from Helsinki.

Fly Saudi Arabian Airlines and Get a 96-hour stopover visa 

Saudi Arabian Airlines, also known as Saudia, recently joined the ranks of airlines in offering a hassle-free stopover with a 96-hour visa to Indian nationals. Indian passport holders having a valid US visa or Green Card or a Schengen visa, are eligible for an electronic transit/stopover visa to Jeddah and Riyadh. The visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. Home to 6 UNESOC World Heritage Sites and the world’s tallest fountain, the Kingdom Saudi Arabia is a must-visit destination for history buffs, culture enthusiasts and art connoisseurs.

The post What are Top Airline Stopover Programs and Transit City Sightseeing Tours between USA and India? appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

On January 24 in 1966, the young India (post-independence) was preparing for the Republic Day celebration. It was a most fateful day for both the nation and its national carrier, Air India. The fatal accident of Air India Flight 101 at Mont Blanc in France, killing 11 crew members and all 106 passengers including Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha on board, reduced the enthusiasm and excitement towards organizing the celebrations into grief and bereavement across the country.

After its image was rebranded for the western markets in the beginning of the 1960s, Air India was operating in full glory. Bombay to London and London to New York were the most popular routes in the network of Air India flights then. Unaware of its tragic fate on January 24 in 1966, Air India Flight 101 using a Boeing 707 named Kanchenjunga took off from Bombay for London via Delhi, had two scheduled stops – Beirut and Geneva.

Picture credit: Homibhabhafellowships.com

At Flight Level 190, the AI Kanchenjunga was supposed to descend for Geneva International Airport after passing Mont Blanc in the French Alps. The pilot, under the impression that he passed Mont Blanc, steered the aircraft to descend and ended up crashing the aircraft at the 15,584-ft elevation of the Mont Blanc Massif. A miscalculation by the pilot in determining the aircraft’s position while passing by Mont Blanc – which was mainly due to a communication error between the pilot and the radar controller – had caused the tragedy of Air India Flight 101, according to the report by India’s inquiry commission.

The pilot-in-command of Air India Kanchenjunga, en route to Geneva from Beirut, knew that one of the VORs was not working. Very High Frequency (VHF) Omni-directional Range (VOR) is a type of short range radio navigation system for aircraft to determine its position on receiving radio signals. As a result, the pilot miscalculated the aircraft’s position in relation to Mont Blanc and communicated his calculation of the position to the radar controller. On finding it an error, the controller determined the right position and sent a message to the pilot who misunderstood the ‘correction’ message.

Surprisingly, a similar mishap at the same place had reduced Air India Flight 245 into dusts on November 3 in 1950. The way both the aircraft – Malabar Princes in 1950 and Kanchenjunga in 1966 – were destroyed killing everyone aboard, has led to several conspiracy theories relating to the death of Dr. Homi Bhabha, the Chairman of the Indian Atomic Energy Commission.

Just two months before Air India’s Mont Blanc crash in 1966, Dr. Bhabha made an announcement on All India Radio that they would make atom bombs to establish India as a nuclear power within 18 months. Dr. Homi Bhabha was the father of India’s nuclear program. Some historians suspect the crash of Air India Flight 101 as a conspiracy for the accidental death of Dr. Bhabha. It was preceded by the suspicious death of Lal Bahadur Shastri, the second Prime Minister of India, on January 11, 1966 in Tashkent.

Hence, January 24 is etched as an ill-fated day in the history of Air India and a day of grief for the demise of Dr. Homi Bhabha in the annals of India. In August 2019, Prime Minister unveiled a monument dedicated to the victims of Air India Malabar Princess in 1950 and Air India Kanchenjunga in 1966.

The post January 24: An Ill-fated Day of Unpleasant Memories for India and Its National Carrier Air India appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The metamorphosis of Indian airports into world-class gateways integrating both modern technology and local cultural elements is taking global aviation aback. The new integrated terminals of Indian airports are being designed as gateways to a new INDIA where tradition and technology are going hand in hand. Flying through the newly inaugurated Ayodhya Airport, the Garden Terminal of Bangalore Int. Airport, the new terminal of Gujarat’s Surat Airport, and T2 of Chennai MAA Airport is an absolutely immersive experience not only for NRIs but also foreigners.

Inaugurated on Day 2 of the New Year 2024, Tiruchirappalli Airport’s new terminal is as beautiful as the city, home to India’s largest architectural complex of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam. Built for a whopping Rs 1100 crore, the new integrated terminal of Tamil Nadu’s second largest airport (TRZ) makes a passage to the rich cultural heritage of the state through its highly aesthetic design, outside and inside.

PC: Airports Authority of India

Trichy Airport’s New Terminal is no less than a temple museum 

Trichy Airport’s new integrated terminal aesthetically integrates various cultural elements into its contemporary design. One of the most interesting features of the terminal architecture is its gopuram-like entrance that welcomes passengers. Inspired by the iconic raja gopuram (temple tower) of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli’s Srirangam, the ornamental replica dramatically rises against the sleek geometrical roof and the multi-layered facade of the terminal building.

What grabs eyeballs is the horizontal line of wooden carvings of Lord Vishnu and His incarnations including the Narasimha avatar inside the terminal, just like the intricate engravings found at south Indian monuments. The most prominent being the carving of Vishnu in the reclining position, which is modelled after the presiding deity of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. The elaborately sculpted columns supporting the terminal roof are reflective of the 1000 pillars with centuries-old sculptures of riding horses in Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.

PC: Tamil Hindu

From the roof to column cladding to accent walls, the terminal design pays homage to the magnificent temple architecture of the region. The 13 larger-than-life canvas acrylic paintings of the historical temples across Tamil Nadu, including Madurai Meenakshi Temple and Thanjavur Brihadisvara Temple, make the terminal feel like a museum. Traditional rangoli motifs, paintings and murals lend a splash of color and history to the terminal interiors, depicting local traditions, festivals and cultural heritage.

While the cultural aspects of the terminal take passengers on a captivating journey through the beating heart of Trichy, its eco-friendly features pave the way for a sustainable future, reflecting Indian aviation’s commitment to sustainability. The energy efficient building, which acquired 4 stars as per the GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) rating system, has arrangements in place for solar power generation, rainwater harvesting, water and sewage treatment plants among others.

Tiruchirappalli Airport New Terminal: Cost, Capacity, Facilities 

Built at an astounding cost of Rs 1112 crores, Tiruchirappalli International Airport’s new integrated terminal building sprawls across 75,000 square meters, which is six times the size of its previous terminal. The bi-level modular building has a capacity to handle 4.5 million passengers annually – 3X of Tiruchirappalli Airport’s present capacity; giving a significant boost to Tamil Nadu’s third busiest airport (after Chennai and Coimbatore).

The state-of-the-art terminal is equipped with 60 check-in counters (34 for international passengers and 26 for domestic passengers), 60 arrival immigration counters, 44 departure emigration counters, 19 baggage scanners, and 5 baggage belts to facilitate seamless passenger flow even during peak hours.

A four-lane elevated roadway connecting the departure lounge on the first floor of the terminal with the Trichy-Pudukottai National Highway serves as a direct link for travelers heading to Tiruchirappalli Airport to catch their domestic or international flights.

The post Trichy Airport’s New Integrated Terminal with Gopuram is a Fusion of Tradition & Technology: Interesting Features appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

This week Michelin-star celebrity chef Vikas Khanna travelled on one of the business class flights from New York to Mumbai and tweeted, “Possibly, one of the most beautiful aircraft I have flown in. And impeccable service…..Yes, this is Air India.” His video providing a glimpse of the business class cabin that appears like a blue lagoon floating in the sky has gone viral. Since then, we have noticed a surge in traffic to the website of Indian Eagle Travel – for Air India flight tickets to India from USA. 

The aforementioned business class cabin is, in fact, a Delta One suite on five B777-200LRs that Air India has leased from Delta Airlines for nonstop flights from USA to Bengaluru, Mumbai, and New Delhi. Three of the 5 B777-200LRs were inducted into the Air India fleet for an upgrade to inflight experience, before the Tata Group’s $70bn aircraft deal with Boeing and Airbus took off in February 2023.

Delta Airlines got its ten B777-200LRs lavishly refurbished for $100 million in 2019, but the pandemic grounded the fleet. Besides, the Russian airspace restrictions to American carriers including Delta – which proved to be a blessing in disguise for Air India – curtailed Delta operations on some long-haul routes. The Tata airline retained the Delta cabin products except the logo on the leased aircraft. An ex-Delta B777-200LR has 28 Delta One suites (business class), 48 Premium Select seats (premium economy), and 220 Economy seats.

Photo Credit: Delta Airlines

Those among our customers, who recently travelled on SFO to BLR, BOM to SFO, and NYC to Mumbai flights by Air India, loved the blue-hued seats and quality amenities aboard the leased aircraft. They found the blue upholstery not only soothing but better than the yellow-red ones on the other aircraft in the fleet of Air India. The ex-Delta B777-200LRs have Panasonic Avionics Inflight Entertainment screens installed in all cabins. The Economy travel cabin is roomy and has seats laid out in a 3-3-3 configuration. The leased aircraft has 18.5-inch-wide Economy seats.

USA to India routes with Air India’s B777-200LRs and brand new Premium Economy

The ex-Delta Premium Select is, currently, Air India’s Premium Economy with 48 roomier seats, each with 19-inch width. The booking of Air India’s Premium Economy tickets had opened first for nonstop flights between SFO and Mumbai, NY JFK and Mumbai, and SFO to Bengaluru nonstop travel starting from mid-May 2023. Now Air India will put a B777-200LR with Premium Economy seats into service for nonstop Delhi to San Francisco flights starting from October 17, 2023.

IndianEagle.com has the best Premium Economy flight deals including Air India’s for your much-awaited travel on the above routes during the Christmas holiday season. Indian Eagle is a most trusted travel-booking partner with dedicated multichannel customer support for Indian Diaspora in the USA. If you have any concern or need assistance with booking your tickets, you can call the helpline 1-800-615-3969.

Flight #2 of 2023
Sector: Mumbai – New York JFK
Aircraft: Boeing 777-200LR
Airline: @airindiain
Class : Premium Economy
Super comfy seat, Modern IFE, food at par with domestic business, finest of liquors, noise cancelling headphones, Tumi amenity kit.
Rating: 10/10 pic.twitter.com/ow580biGH3

— Siddhartha (@Sidd_MCFC) March 10, 2023

Air India’s inflight services in Premium Economy  

Air India’s B777-200LR Premium Economy is earning rave reviews for generous legroom, comfy seating in a 2-4-2 configuration, soothing interiors, modern inflight entertainment systems with bigger screens, TUMI amenity kits, delicious food, and high-quality noise cancelation headphones. Premium passengers are provided with two menu cards – one for lunch and one for dinner – featuring the tagline, Taste the New Luxury. The airline describes the menu as “a journey of culinary excellence with our enhanced inflight cuisine offering a range of specially curated dishes crafted with care and served with class.” Some passengers shared that they were given hot towels before each meal. Below is a glimpse of the menu:

PC: Twitter | Vinamralongani

Air India’s Business Class on B777-200LRs

The former Delta One suites are the Crystal Cabin Award-winning business class seats on Air India’s B777-200LRs. The business travel cabin that ticks all the boxes for value-for-money inflight experience and uncompromised privacy is driving the demand for Air India’s business class flight tickets on the JFK to BOM, SFO to BOM, and SFO to Bengaluru routes. The seats feature sliding doors, privacy partitions, and in-seat USB ports. It has restored the luxury and glamor of flying on Air India – which will touch the next level with more premium aircraft (as below) to be inducted by the airline.

2024 will be the year of Air India Premium Economy vs Emirates Premium Economy. Air India is all set to cash in on more Premium Economy seats with brand new six A350-900s which will join the fleet starting this November. An A350-900 aircraft has three-class cabin configuration comprising 28 Business, 24 Premium Economy, and 264 Economy seats. In our knowledge, the upcoming A350-900s will replace the outdated aircraft for Air India flights from New York to Delhi, Newark to Delhi, D.C IAD. to Delhi, and Chicago to Delhi. Below is a glimpse of A350-900s:

The post Air India’s B777-200LR with Premium Economy is Beautiful Aircraft with Impeccable Service on Major US-India Routes appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

With an ambitious project for new airports, domestic and international, for its aviation vision 2040, India is moving towards the goal – a trillion-dollar economy. India will have 190-200 functioning airports to facilitate air travel for 1.1 billion travelers, both inbound and outbound, by 2040. Of all the new and upcoming airports in India, Noida International Airport DXN is awaiting its inauguration in 2024, which the world is looking forward to for more than one reason.

Noida Jewar International Airport

Jewar International Airport, which is under construction in Delhi-NCR, will not only take the passenger load off India’s busiest New Delhi Airport but also become the largest international airport in the country by the end of its final phase construction in 2040. Below are some interesting facts about Jewar Airport, which recently got its IATA code – DXN, where D and N stand for Delhi and Noida respectively and X implies air connectivity. The three-letter airport geocode assigned by International Air Transport Association (IATA) signifies the role of Noida Airport DXN as the second aviation hub in the Delhi-NCR area.

Jewar International Airport, when completed by 2040, will have six runways and four terminals- the highest at any Indian airports. Some of the international operations will be shifted from Delhi IGI Airport to Noida Jewar Airport, considering the ever-growing number of flights to New Delhi from USA and other major countries. Jewar Airport will stand out with Uttar Pradesh’s architectural aesthetics woven into its modern design, just as Chennai Airport’s new integrated terminal has embodied cultural aspects of Tamil Nadu and its temple architecture.

Ganga ghats inspires Noida Airport terminal design

Located in Uttar Pradesh where the mighty Ganga River is not just worshiped as a deity but also an elixir of cultural life, Noida Airport is having its terminal inspired by the local architecture. The carbon-neutral terminal building to be beautified with indoor plants will have a sprawling courtyard designed like a haveli (mansion). The flight of steps in the terminal forecourt is being modelled on the Ganga River ghats in Varanasi and Haridwar. The design of the wavy roof of the forecourt will reflect the flow of rivers in the region.

The terminal of Nodia Jewar International Airport will have red sandstone flooring with close semblance to the red sandstone architecture of Fatehpur Sikri in Uttar Pradesh. Adding a touch of classic charm to the terminal building are reinterpretations of traditional jali designs (ornamental lattice screens) unique to the Mughal architecture.

Jewar Airport location, traffic handling, bidding 

Zurich Airport International AG, a Switzerland-headquartered company, has taken the lead to build Noida International Greenfield Airport (JIA), by outbidding its competitors. Zurich Airport placed the highest bid of INR 400.97 per passenger while Anchorage Infrastructure Investments Holdings Limited offered INR 205 per passenger, Adani Enterprises Limited offered INR 360 per passenger and Delhi International Airport Limited offered INR 351.

Jewar in Gautam Budh Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh is the location of Jewar International Airport, 72 km from IGI Airport; 40 km from Bulandshahr; 48 km from Greater Noida; 130 km from Agra; 60 km from Noida, and 70 km from Faridabad and Ghaziabad. The JIA will be easily accessible from not only Kanpur and Allahabad, but also other locations including Gwalior, Ludhiana, Bathinda, Shimla and Pathankot. Moreover, it is proposed to be connected to Delhi Metro via the Noida Metro route and via the Delhi-Faridabad-Ballabhgarh-Palwal-Jewar route. Additionally, a 31-km-long link road will connect Noida International Airport to the upcoming Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. Jewar Airport Station is also one of the proposed stations on the Delhi–Varanasi High Speed Rail project

On completion of all four phases of the construction by 2040, Jewar International Airport’s traffic-handling capacity will be more than 70 million passengers. With two runways, the first phase of the airport will handle around 12 million air passenger traffic which will go up to 30 million in the second phase and 50 million in the third phase and over 70 million at the final phase. Currently, New Delhi IGI Airport is handling around 70 million passengers, which is far beyond its capacity.

Jewar Airport cost, infrastructure, compensation

INR 29,650 crore is the total cost estimate for Jewar International Airport’s construction, which will be spread over 12,355 acres. The first phase of the construction costing a whopping INR 4,588 crore will be spread across 1,334 hectares and is expected to be completed in 2024. The second phase will cost INR 5,983 crore while the third and fourth phases will cost INR 8,415 crore and INR 10,575 crore respectively. The compensation package for rehabilitation of over 8,971 families from various villages in and around Jewar, which have been affected due to the land acquisition, is estimated to be around INR 3,000 crore.

The area and cost wise, Noida’s Jewar International Airport will undoubtedly be much bigger than the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.

The foundation stone for Noida International Greenfield Airport DXN was laid in November 2021 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the project had been tossed around between various political parties in power since 2001. The long-term airport project will be completed in a phased manner through 2040. The airport will become operational as soon as its first phase construction is over in October 2024 with one terminal building and a runway. Its initial passenger-handling capacity will be limited to 12 million per annum.   

The post INR 29,650cr Noida International Airport Spread over 12K Acres will Have 4 Terminals and 6 Runways appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Good news for those scheduled to travel on Air India! The Tata airline discontinued the ‘Bid Upfront Program’ and introduced an easy-to-use cabin upgrade facility with instant confirmation for select flights and select routes. The new program is named ‘Air India Upgrade+’ that you can use to upgrade your travel class from economy to premium economy or business for a fraction of what seats in higher cabins actually cost.

What is Air India’s Upgrade Plus program? It is a great opportunity for you to travel on cheap business class flights with Air India if you choose to upgrade while or after booking your economy tickets, and if you don’t mind paying a little extra fare for the luxurious comfort that Air India’s business class offers on nonstop flights to India from USA, Europe, and Australia.

PC: Twitter

What are benefits of Air India’s Upgrade+ from economy to business class?

The benefits include perks of flying in the business class, such as gourmet meals from Air India’s new inflight menus, luxurious seating, and extra baggage allowance. The other perks are priority airport check-in, priority baggage handling, and priority boarding. A successful cabin upgrade from economy to business comes with faster immigration clearance and expedited security through priority lanes for premium economy and business class flyers.

However, the benefits of using Air India’s Upgrade Plus to travel in premium cabins do not include complimentary lounge facility. Also, the fare conditions of original booking remain applicable even after the cabin upgrade. Be it cancellation/rebooking charges or flying points gained, it will be based on the original booking.

What are eligibility criteria for using Air India Upgrade+ from economy to business?  

To be eligible for Air India’s Upgrade+ program, you should have a confirmed flight ticket on the airline’s document number 098 and have a valid email id updated in the booking reservation (you will receive an upgrade invitation to this email). The flight you are scheduled to travel on must be operated by Air India.

Traveling with an infant or in a group, or carrying a pet makes you ineligible for Air India’s travel cabin upgrade program.

Can I bid for economy to first class upgrade for my travel on Air India? 

At present, Air India’s bidding system is available for one level upgrade from economy to business class, and from business to first class. With your flight booked in economy, you cannot bid to travel in Air India’s first class.

How to use Air India Upgrade+ program for an upgrade in travel class?

You will receive an email invitation for Air India’s Economy to Business Class upgrade on your registered email address. Once you purchase cheap economy tickets for Air India flights, say from USA to India, from IndianEagle.com, you can check whether the itinerary is eligible for an upgrade from economy to premium seats on the airline website. First of all, you should note the above-mentioned eligibility criteria for Upgrade+ program.

Go to AirIndia.com and click ‘Book & Manage” in the top menu bar. It will show a dropdown menu wherein you should click “Seat Selection & Upgrades”. Then go to the ‘Upgrade+ program‘. You will see a big red bar with two white boxes to check your eligibility for Upgrade+. If you are the primary traveler, enter your PNR/booking reference number and your last name and click on submit. If you are eligible for an upgrade of the flight scheduled in the next 72 hours, you can go ahead and get your seat upgraded from economy to business class or premium economy at a fixed amount decided by Air India. 

Enter your credit card details for general verification (payment deduction will happen after upgrade is successful). Submit your upgrade offer after reviewing your personal information and other details. You will be upgraded instantly and within two hours of submission, you will also receive a confirmation email about the upgrade applicable throughout your flight operated by Air India.

Is there a time window to upgrade cheap Air India flight tickets to a premium class?

Air India’s cabin upgrade window closes 12 hours before the scheduled departure of flights. However, you may still stand a chance to upgrade your travel class at the last minute (within 6 hours of departure). For this, you need to reach out to the airline’s check-in counter at the departure airport.

Can I cancel the confirmed upgrade to my travel on Air India flights to/from India?

No, it is not possible to cancel the upgrade once confirmed. And if you cancel your flight after a successful cabin upgrade, you will automatically lose the amount paid for upgrading your seat to business class from economy. 

How Air India’s Upgrade Plus program works? 

Air India’s new cabin upgrade program works for flights departing within the next 72 hours and based on the availability of seats in premium travel cabins. Currently, it is available for economy to business class upgrades for specific flights and on select routes.

I got the best deal from IndianEagle.com for last minute flights with Air India. Am I eligible to bid for an upgrade on the last-minute flight? 

You are advised to visit the airline’s website to check your eligibility for cabin upgrade on flights departing within the next 72 hours. A last-minute upgrade is also possible but subject to availability. You can check with the airline officials during the airport check-in.

I want to cancel my reservation but my travel class upgrade has been successful. Will I get a refund of the upgrade amount?

The extra amount you paid for purchasing the upgrade won’t be refunded, according to Air India. However, the economy class fare (if refundable) which you initially paid to travel on Air India will be refunded as per the airline policy and the ticket rules.

I want to rebook my flight. Can I transfer the upgrade while rebooking? 

Air India’s Upgrade+ program is exclusive to specific flights. Hence, confirmed upgrades are non-transferable and non-refundable. So, you will not be rebooked in an upgraded travel class if you change your travel dates in the original reservation.

I paid to reserve a seat in Economy. Will I get back the seat reservation fee if my flight ticket is upgraded to Air India’s Business Class?

The amount you paid to get your preferred seat reserved in Economy is likely to be refunded, according to Air India; once you are upgraded to a class higher than Economy.

The post Upgrade Plus: Air India’s New, Easy-to-use Cabin Upgrade System for Economy Flyers to Travel in Premium Cabins appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

India’s Vision 2040 for civil aviation is full of positive facts and practical figures. The phenomenal increase in the total number of India’s inbound and outbound air travelers from 134.98 million in 2015-16 to 184 million in 2017-18 is the foundation of India’s Vision 2040 for 1.1 billion passengers. Recently released at the Global Aviation Summit in Mumbai, the Civil Aviation Ministry’s “Vision 2040” report states that there will be 190-200 functioning airports in India by 2040. Delhi and Mumbai will have three international airports each, while top 31 Indian cities will have two operational airports each. The current fleet of 622 commercial aircraft crisscrossing India (as per March 2018) will grow manifold to include 2359 planes by March 2040. ‘The Next Generation Airports for Bharat’ Nirman Fund (NNF) has been proposed in the report on India’s Vision 2040 to provide monetary support for new and upcoming international airports in India.

Travel Beats, an overseas Indian community portal by Indian Eagle Travel, curated details of India’s upcoming international airports, which are expected to cost around $40-50 billion (excluding land acquisition costs), as per India’s Vision 2040 report. Most of the new and upcoming airports in India will have international connectivity for flights to and from the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific countries.

Rajkot International Airport, Gujarat

One of the new international Indian airports under construction is in Rajkot, Gujarat, as part of India’s vision 2040 in aviation. Expected to be completed by December 2023, the Rajkot International Airport is being developed in two phases – airport site and runway construction under the first phase and passenger terminal and apron under the second phase. The terminal building planned with four passenger boarding bridges, three conveyor belts and 20 check-in counters will be able to handle 1,800 passengers during peak hours.

To be developed across 2534 acres of land, Rajkot Greenfield International airport will have the capacity to handle the A320 family aircraft. One of the upcoming Greenfield airports in India, it will be equipped with a solar power system, rainwater harvesting system and a noise-absorbing green belt. Early in 2018, the Airports Authority of India allocated Rs.7.9 billion (USD 125.1 million) for the new Rajkot International Airport project development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone during the ground-breaking ceremony in October 2017.

Location: Hirasar village, approximately 30 km from Rajkot City 

Dholera International Airport, Gujarat

Gujarat’s third international airport is under construction in the ancient Harappan city of Dholavira. To be constructed in multiple phases with a 2025-26 deadline for its first phase completion, this greenfield airport will initially be able to handle over 3 lakh passengers a year and its capacity will be gradually expanded to 5 million annual passengers in future phases. Dholera Airport will share the increasing passenger load on Ahmedabad International Airport in its capacity as the second airport to the city. Moreover, the airport being developed as a part of the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) will also serve the industrial region as a major cargo hub.

Location: Navagam village, Dholera, around 100 km from Ahmedabad

Visakhapatnam International Airport, Andhra Pradesh

The upcoming greenfield airport in Bhogapuram will be Andhra Pradesh’s first international airport near Visakhapatnam. Bhogapuram Airport is being developed in three phases by the prestigious GMR Group, the operator of Delhi IGI Airport, Hyderabad RGI Airport, and Goa’s Mopa Airport. Also known as GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport, it had its foundation stone laid in May 2023.  The first phase is scheduled for completion in the next three years at an estimated cost of INR 4,592 crore. The airport, to be developed across 2,200-acre, will handle 6 million annual passengers in its first phase, and this capacity will be increased to 18 million passengers based on for international flights to Vizag, India.

Location: Bhogapuram, approximately 45km from Visakhapatnam

Sabarimala International Airport, Kerala

Good news for the Sabarimala pilgrims from across the world! The proposed Sabarimala International Airport project on 2570 acres of land at Cheruvally Estate near Erumely in Kottayam district has overcome its first hurdle and gained the Union Environment Ministry Panel’s approval in June 2023. Now it’s up for impact assessment and if things fall in place as per the Kerala government’s plan, Sabarigiri International Airport will be the nearest airport for Sabarimala and the fifth international air travel hub in Kerala. Currently, Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Sabarimala at a distance of 155 km.

Location: Erumeli, approximately 40 km from Kottayam

Navi Mumbai International Airport

The costliest and biggest of all the upcoming international airports in India is Navi Mumbai Airport, which will become operational once the first phase of construction is completed as planned by December 2024. The airport – officially named D. B. Patil International Airport – will handle 10 million passengers a year initially and more than 90 million annual passenger traffic upon completion of its all four phases by 2032. Reportedly, the NMI airport will handle 80 flights an hour and some 1900 flights in 24 hours. 

The Navi Mumbai International Airport project cost is estimated at Rs.16, 700 crore, as per the report on India’s Aviation Vision 2040. Read more about the second Mumbai international airport designed like a lotus, India’s national flower, and its topnotch facilities.

Ludhiana International Airport, Punjab

Ludhiana, Punjab’s largest city and industrial hub, is the location of one of the upcoming international airports in India. The airport, officially named Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha International Airport, is coming up at the existing Indian Air Force (IAF) station in Halwara. To be developed by the Punjab government and the Airports Authority of India in collaboration, the project includes construction of an international passenger terminal in the first phase. Ludhiana International Airport will be able to accommodate and handle Code 4C-type aircraft such as Boeing 737-700 and Airbus A-320.

Most likely to begin operations in September 2023, it will share the increasing load of air traffic to Amritsar International Airport in Punjab. Qatar Airways is the only major international carrier operating flights to Amritsar from USA and other countries.

Location: Halwara, nearly 40 km from Ludhiana

Ayodhya International Airport

One of the most awaited Indian airports is Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport in Ayodhya. It will facilitate domestic and international air connectivity for Indian Diaspora looking forward to the opening of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. While the first phase of the airport construction is close to completion for operations scheduled in December 2023, Ayodhya International airport (UP’s fifth) will be developed gradually in three phases across the area of 821 acres.

In its first phase, the airport will cater to mostly domestic passengers and its interim terminal building will handle 6,00,000 passengers annually. The airport design that resembles the architecture of Ayodhya Ram Mandir is among the most stunning features.. 

Second International Airport, Chennai

Like Delhi and Mumbai, Chennai is paving the way for a second international airport in line with India’s Vision 2040 for aviation. Intended to decongest Chennai International Airport (MAA), the second facility is proposed to be built across 5000 acres of land spanning 13 villages in Parandur, situated nearly 15 km from Kanchipuram. This 20,000 crore project is planned with 100 million passenger handling capacity and the tentative deadline for completion of the airport’s construction is 2028. Reportedly, Chennai’s Parandur Airport will feature two long runways that can hold huge 600-seat aircraft. A metro line connecting the airport with Chennai City and a road link with the Bangalore–Chennai Expressway are also planned.

Location: Parandur, nearly 70 km from Chennai

Kalyani Airport, Kolkata

A new airport is being built 53 km away from Kolkata and some 82km from India’s biggest ISCKON temple to ease the burden on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport – the biggest hub for air travel in east India and also one of the 10 busiest airports in the country. Kalyani Airport will be developed across 1500 acres of land and the airport will have a capacity to handle around 8.5 million passengers annually. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) set a 2030 deadline for Kolkata’s second airport to become operational.

Shivamogga Airport, Karnataka 

To be operationalized from 11 August, Shivamogga Airport is another UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) project developed in two phases at a cost of INR 450 crores. The greenfield airport covers 662 acres of land and features a 3200-m runway, the second-longest runway in the state after Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport. Its lotus-shaped passenger terminal building has a capacity to handle nearly 300 passengers in peak hours. As per reports, the domestic airport can handle Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 type aircraft and its standards are at par with that of an international airport.

Karnataka has two more upcoming airports – Vijayapura Airport with a tentative operational deadline in December 2023 and Hassan Airport whose construction is expected to be completed by April 2024.

Jewar International Airport, Noida

A wing of India’s Vision 2040 for aviation is Noida International Airport at Jewar, which will be catering to the catchment areas of Delhi NCR. Expected to ease the air traffic load on Indira Gandhi International Airport, the new facility will increase passenger-handling capacity up to 70 million per year over the next 30 years. INR 10,000 crore is the estimated cost of constructing the airport’s first phase, which is likely to open for commercial flight operations by the end of 2024. In the first phase, Noida International Airport will handle 12 million passengers. Much like Delhi IGI Airport, Noida International Airport will have international connectivity for USA to India flights, and flights from the UK, Singapore, Australia, as well as the Middle East.

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje International Airport, Pune

Pune’s second international airport at Purandar will be named after Maratha King Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje. To be built on 2400 hectares of land, the proposed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje Airport may replace Lohegaon Air Force Station, the current international airport in Pune, which cannot accommodate more than 4 to 6 international flights to and from Pune due to restrictions on the air force base. Though approved in 2016, Pune’s Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje Airport project didn’t take shape due to land acquisition and other issues. Its fate now rests on the upcoming general elections in India in 2024.

Location: Purandar, nearly 40 to 45 km from Pune

Rewa Airport, Madya Pradesh

As part of the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme, the existing Rewa Airfield (with a 1400 m runway and a small building) is being developed into a proper airport suitable for ATR-72 operations, at a cost of INR 300 crore. This upcoming domestic airport in Madhya Pradesh will see a land accretion of 290 additional acres. A new terminal building is planned across 750 sqm with a peak hour capacity of 50 passengers. The foundation stone for the expansion project was laid in February 2023 and the airport is expected to begin domestic operations in September 2023. It will connect Rewa with cities including Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, New Delhi and Mumbai.

Location: Chorhata, nearly 11 km from Rewa City

The post Indian Aviation’s Vision 2040 for 1.1bn Travelers: What are Upcoming International Airports in India in 2023 and 2024 appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Switzerland stopover is one of the best airline stopover programs for international travelers transiting in Europe. A free transit stopover lets you explore an additional international destination at a very little cost while traveling between USA and India. Cruising on Lake Zurich, riding on the Glacier Express, trekking in the Alps, visiting the Chocolate Museum, an excursion trip to Mount Rigi, going on an adventure spree in centra Switzerland and likes are the perks of Swiss International Airport’s Stopover Switzerland program available for up to four nights in Zurich, Geneva and other cities.

PC: MySwitzerland.com

Having booked the best of flights with long connection time or multi-city flights by SWISS Airlines between USA and India on IndianEagle.com, you can avail of the Stopover Switzerland program. Swiss International Airlines’ stopover program consists of eight customized travel packages; each with 3 or 4-star hotel accommodation and a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited free rides on Switzerland’s public transportation system. The stopover packages for international transit passengers of SWISS are available in two categories: single destination and multi destination.

If you opt for a single-destination package of the Stopover Switzerland program while booking your trip on SWISS Airlines flights from USA to Delhi, Mumbai, or Singapore, you can visit only one Swiss city to spend the stopover. The multi-destination Stopover Switzerland packages for transit passengers of SWISS flights from USA to Mumbai and New Delhi include a fixed itinerary, seamless transportation to different tourist places, luxury accommodation in three or four star hotels, and a list of things to do during the stopover.

Whatever single or multi-destination package you choose, it comes with a Swiss Travel Pass for hassle-free local transportation in first or second class. The pass allows unlimited rides by train, bus and boat in Swiss cities including Zurich and Geneva. Free entry to over 500 museums and a fair discount on mountain excursions in Switzerland come bundled with the pass available for consecutive 3 to 15 days. The pass also comes with useful tips on local tourist attractions and activities.

Interestingly, a Swiss Travel Pass can get you convenient rides on the most popular Glacier Express and Bernina Express for scenic journeys through valleys in the Swiss Alps. Advance seat reservation on these trains is recommended due to high demand by tourists the year round. Though the pass includes panoramic train rides in Switzerland, seat reservation is payable.

Visa requirement for a transit stopover in Switzerland

Do Indians need a visa for stopover in Switzerland? Yes, Indian passport holders need a regular Swiss Schengen visa to enter Switzerland and spend a stopover there. Even if you have a valid residence permit or visa issued by the US, Canada, Ireland, Japan, or a Schengen country, a stopover outside of Swiss airports requires you to have a regular Schengen visa.

I may plan for a Zurich City sightseeing tour during a long layover in my itinerary with SWISS Airlines. Do I need a Swiss visa to leave the airport transit area?

If you are an Indian passport holder, you must have a regular Swiss Schengen visa to leave the transit area of Zurich International Airport and tour Zurich City during a long layover.

What are the American destinations for SWISS airlines flights from India?

Swiss International Airlines operates flights to/from 7 major airports in the United States, including New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), Miami (MIA) and Boston Logan.

“SWISS Airlines’ stopover program seems the beginning of a greater time for international travelers transiting through Europe. It may push major European airlines to introduce similar stopover travel programs. With most of the Middle East airlines offering free stopover at their respective hubs in the Gulf region, many travelers from USA, India and other eligible countries prefer to fly via the Middle East. With European airlines jumping on to the bandwagon, travelers will have more choices to spend stopovers in a much better way,” opined Chief marketing officer of IndianEagle.com, a leading air ticketing agency in the US.

The post Traveling to India or USA via Switzerland? All You Need to Know about SWISS Airlines’ Free Stopover Program appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The foundation stone for the INR 16,700-crore Navi Mumbai International Airport project was laid nearly two decades after it was conceived. An ambitious dream of Mumbai City, the project will be completed in a phased manner by 2032. Intended to ease the increasing load of passenger traffic on Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Navi Mumbai International Airport’s Terminal 1 will be operational in 2024. The second terminal will be completed by 2028 and Terminal 3 in 2032. Below are some of the interesting facts about Navi Mumbai Airport project, which is part of India’s largest planned city, Navi Mumbai.

PC: Adani Group

Navi Mumbai Airport Project Cost

INR 16,700 crore is the total cost estimate for the construction of Navi Mumbai International Airport. The ongoing construction of the first phase of the NMI airport would cost INR 6000 crore, which is anticipated to be completed and functional in 2024. The City & Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) allocated INR 3,420 crore for the pre-construction work. The compensation package for rehabilitation of nearly 3500 families in ten villages in and around Navi Mumbai, which have been affected due to the land acquisition, is estimated at INR 520 crore.

Navi Mumbai Airport Infrastructure

Unlike Mumbai CSI Airport, the second Mumbai International Airport will have two parallel runways measuring 3810m x 60m each. The runways will be 1550 meters apart from each other and have full-length taxiways on both sides. The terminal building of Navi Mumbai Airport will be built over an area of 2,700,000 square feet. The cargo area of the airport will spread over 1,000,000 square feet. A 90-m tall hillock at the Navi Mumbai Airport site has been demolished to prepare the land for runways and terminals. Major international airlines’ new-gen aircraft, such as Emirates’ A380 with Premium Economy and Lufthansa’s A350, operating business flights to Mumbai will be able to land and take off here as per the Navi Mumbai Airport plan.

Navi Mumbai Airport Design and Architecture

Inspired by lotus, India’s national flower, the design of Navi Mumbai International Airport has taken the aviation world by storm since the first look was unveiled on social media. Reportedly, a water terminal is being planned with high-speed ferry service from the Gateway of India, among the stunning features of the upcoming multimodal travel facility. The airport will be as eco-friendly as Cochin International Airport, the world’s first aviation facility powered by solar energy. Navi Mumbai Airport will be running on solar power.

PC: Adani Group

Navi Mumbai Airport: Traffic-handling Capacity 

Unlike Mumbai CSI Airport (BOM) which handles over 900 flights a day, the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport is supposed to handle 80 flights an hour and nearly 1900 flights in 24 hours. Currently, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is the main gateway for flights to Mumbai from USA and other countries, is the world’s busiest single-runway facility.  

On completion of all four phases of the Navi Mumbai Airport project by 2032, the airport’s traffic-handling capacity will be more than 90 million passengers. With one runway and one terminal building which are expected to be built at the first phase in 2024, the airport will handle 10-million air passenger traffic which will go up to 25 million at the second phase in 2023 and 40 million at the third phase in 2027 and 60 million in 2031. Mumbai International Airport (BOM) has been handling over 40 million passengers per annum beyond its capacity since 2016.

Navi Mumbai International Airport: Location

The area around mainland Navi Mumbai across the Mumbai Harbor is the location of Mumbai’s second international airport (NMIA). Deemed as a Greenfield airport, Navi Mumbai Airport will spread over nearly 2900 hectares (7200 acres), including an area of 1160 hectares for the construction of airport terminals. Navi Mumbai Airport’s distance from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is 35kms along the National Highway 4B which will facilitate primary access to the airport in the east. There is supposed to be a 10-lane road to the new airport terminal building. The Mumbai Trans Harbor Link (MTHL), a 22-km 6-lane road bridge under construction, will connect the new airport in Navi Mumbai with the mainland of Mumbai City.

The post INR 16700-crore Navi Mumbai International Airport: Things to Know about India’s Most Ambitious Project appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.