Mangalore: New Terminal to be Functional in 10 days

MANGALORE, Jun 23 (The Hindu): Director of the Mangalore airport Peter Abraham has said that the new integrated terminal building of the airport will be opened for passenger traffic in the next 10 days.
Speaking to The Hindu on Tuesday, a month after the May 22 crash of the Air India Express flight from Dubai, Abraham said that the opening of the new terminal was scheduled for June 1. “But the circumstances that prevailed in the aftermath of the crash prevented us from opening the terminal,” he said.
The date of commissioning would be decided by the local authorities in consultation with the regional headquarters of the Airports Authority of India at Chennai. The only aspect that was currently holding up the opening was the construction of a standby road, which would take another week, Mr. Abraham said.
The 360-m road, which would provide an alternate passage to the airport, is being built at the south-east end of the airport, abutting the now-abandoned Dakkan Hotel. Built at a cost of Rs. 35 lakh, this road will connect the airport to the Bajpe main road, via the Kenjar gram panchayat. This road will be used in emergencies only. Otherwise, it will remain closed.
ILS functional
The Instrument Landing System at the airport has been repaired and reinstalled. The ILS could not be used after the plane crashed into one of its crucial components on May 22. The ILS was re-commissioned on June 16, Mr. Abraham said.
Salvaging the wreck
There is still no clarity on when the wreckage of the plane will be removed from the crash site. While Mr. Abraham said that it was the responsibility of the airline to conduct the salvage, Station Manger of Air India Chellam Prasad said that the airline did not have the written clearance from the Airports Authority of India to go ahead. Mr. Abraham said that the airline was free to build a temporary shelter, next to the old engineering office near the new terminal building, whenever it wished.

Air travellers to be Compensated for Delayed, Cancelled Flight

New Delhi, Jun 21, (PTI): Air travellers would now be compensated for cancellation or delays in flights which have not been caused by situations like fog or any reason beyond the control of the airlines, if a new draft rule is implemented.
New rules detailing the conditions of compensation have been drafted by the aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation, which has invited comments from the public before finalising them.
The decision came in the wake of rapid expansion of air services on domestic and international routes and the necessity for the government to ensure appropriate protection for air travellers in case of flight disruptions, denied boarding, cancellations and delays without due notice to the passengers, an official spokesperson said.
As the distinction between scheduled and non-scheduled services was coming down, such protectionary measures would also be provided to passengers travelling on non-scheduled flights, like charters, also.
The new rules or the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) would bring the Indian aviation law in tandem with the Montreal Convention in regard to the liabilities of the airlines.
The operating airline would, however, be under no obligation if the cancellations and delays are caused by events beyond its control, like natural calamities or political instability.
Under the draft CAR, the financial compensation would be given only if the amount of tickets cost is higher than the compensation amount.
It would be Rs. 2,000 or the value of the ticket whichever is less for flights having a block time of up to and including one hour. Till two hours, the compensation would be Rs 3,000 or the value of the ticket whichever is less.
Similarly, if the delay is more than two hours, the amount would be Rs 4,000 or the value of the ticket whichever is less.
The draft rule provides that alternatively, the passenger would be offered the choice of a refund at the price it was purchased, a flight to the first point of departure and alternative transportation to the final destination wherever applicable.
Besides, the passengers shall be offered free of charge meals and refreshments and hotel accommodation, including transfers, when necessary.

Bajpe Airport: Runway Length to be Increased from 8000 to 9000 ft

New Delhi, May 30 (PTI): The runway length of Mangalore airport, which saw a major air crash a week ago that claimed 158 lives, will be increased from the present 8,000 ft to 9,000 ft to include a larger spillover area, Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel has said. "In fact, we have already taken a decision to extend the runway from 8,000 ft to 9,000 ft. In that 9,000 ft, the spillover area and all such factors will be taken into account," the Minister said.
He maintained that the government would have an "open mind" to implement any measure arising out of the lessons from the Mangalore air crash.
Replying to questions in Karan Thapar's 'Devil's Advocate' programme in CNN-IBN, Patel said the existing 8,000 ft runway was "fully compliant" with all the required guidelines and had a spillover area of 90 metres, which is the threshold area of the runway, based on its length.
"Though I am not an expert, but I can say with a sense of responsibility that if there are any mandatory requirements which are not fulfilled, not only in Mangalore but at any other airport in the country, these shall be corrected."
To a question on having an approach radar at Mangalore, he said it was "already being contemplated. Whatever is required will be done".
Observing that the Mangalore runway was earlier 6,000 feet in length, he said the risks of flying the same type of aircraft was larger. The present one was a new runway, he said. "Whatever has to be learnt from the air crash and whatever has to be improved upon will be done," Patel said.
Soon after the crash, he said he had chaired a high-level meeting of officials and a Civil Aviation Safety Advisory Council (CASAC) was set up to advise Directorate General of Civil Aviation on all aspects relating to safety.
Asserting that "Indian aviation is safe", Patel said "aviation per se can only be either 100 per cent safe or zero. ... Aviation is not a game of chance .... Any error can lead to what happened in Mangalore," he said, adding that the inquiry would establish what led to the crash.
Asked whether the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the US Federal Aviation Administration had downgraded Indian aviation sector's safety record, he said it was "absolutely wrong. The ICAO and the FAA both have certified that (aviation in) India is 100 per cent safe."
While disagreeing with the suggestion that the DGCA rules and procedures were "stand alone" and did not match the international norms, Patel said the regulatory body would examine all issues in totality and take necessary decisions.
"Let us not scare people away. These are difficult times but let us not make it an issue where people lose faith in our own system," he added.

IX 812 Passenger Manifest

http://docs.google.com/View?id=d692cbr_5vx44fsfd

Mangalore Crosses Another Milestone – Airport Terminal Inaugurated

Pics by Dayananda KukkajeDaijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (SP)
Mangalore, May 15: The new integrated terminal of the local international airport was inaugurated by union minister for civil aviation, Praful Patel, on Saturday May 15. It was a moment of pride for the people of the twin-districts of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada, as the inaugural of the modern terminal will pave way for more international flights, opening up vistas of new opportunities for investment, tourism, employment and business. In his address, Patel said that the Indian aviation market, which is presently ranked ninth in the world, has the potential to jump to fifth spot within the next five years. He said that the runway of the airport, which is 8,000 feet long now, is required to be increased to 9,000 feet so as to earn the international status, and that his ministry is prepared to release Rs 100 crore additionally for development works at this airport. He noted that with the inauguration of a new international standard building, other facilities to raise the airport to international standard will be provided at the earliest and that earnest efforts will be made to fulfill the demand of the people here for commencement of flights to Saudi Arabia and other destinations. He added that all required facilities including the extension of runway here will be provided within a year to ensure that the airport acquires international status.

State Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa, who participated in the function as chief guest, revealed about the state’s plan to have airstrips at a distance of about 100 kms from each other. He said the state will have 13 airstrips at various places including Shimoga, Bellary and Gulbarga. He noted that a proposal has been made to the concerned, to allow civil operations in the Bidar naval airport. With the opening of new airports, investors will find it easier to visit the state for various purposes, and a global investors’ meet is being held in Bangalore shortly, he explained. He promised on behalf of the state government, to provide approach road to the new terminal at a cost of nine crore rupees, and that the state cabinet has already given its nod for this project.
Former union minister, Oscar Fernandes, in his address, recollected the inaugural of the local airport for the first time, by the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru and that as a ten year-old boy, he had come to watch the inaugural. He urged minister Patel to meet all the requirements of the airport and the demand of the local people for flights to Saudi Arabia. He said that the city is developing into a global educational hub and that the city has been witnessing tremendous development due to the efforts made by successive governments.
Union law and justice minister, M Veerappa Moily, also recalled his trip to the airport during its inauguration several decades ago by Nehru, when he was 11. He expressed happiness at the progress witnessed by the airport in the form of new terminal building, longer runway and modern facilities.
The airport here boasts of being the only international airport in the state that has been established and run by the government. The city is poised for getting more attention at the global level, with the throwing open the new terminal to the service of the nation.
The new airport project has been taken up at a cost of about Rs 500 crore, to be developed in an area of about 583 acres of land. In the first phase, the new terminal building, built at a cost of Rs 147 crore over 70 acres of land, has come up. This building is centrally air-conditioned, and covers an area of 18,220 square metres. Facility to handle Indian and foreign passengers separately has been provided.
For the first time in the history of the airport here, the users of the airport will be able to enjoy services like air-conditioned aerobridge, seven escalators, seven lifts etc. The terminal also has been equipped with inline baggage x-ray system, automatic intelligent fire alarm system, CC camera, car calling system and 28 check-in counters, customers and immigration facility, VIP lounge, restaurant etc.
The new airport can accommodate four A-310 and an A-321 aircrafts at a time. Once the airport is fully developed, three more aircrafts can be parked here. Including the old port, the total capacity of the airport is nine aircrafts and two helicopters. The car park can accommodate 300 vehicles. The new terminal is also nearer to the city by seven kms.
State tourism minister, Janardan Reddy, district in-charge minister, Krishna J Palemar, MP, Nalin Kumar Kateel, city mayor, Rajani Dugganna, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, R V Deshapande, MLA, Abhayachandra Jain etc., were present.
Airports authority of India Chairman, V P Agarwal, delivered the welcome address.
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Airport : Four Directors in Eight Months Hampers Progress

by Florine Roche - Daijiworld Media Network
Jan 31, 2010
It is generally said that comparisons are odious. Nevertheless situations call for such comparisons especially when undue delay and apathy nullifies the efforts and progress made by a predecessor and the successors fails to carry on the same tempo of progress. The fate of the new airport terminal at Bajpe Airport which awaits inauguration for quite some time now, is the situation referred to here that necessitates the comparison. When M R Vasudeva was the Airport Director tremendous headway was made as far as converting the tiny Mangalore Airport into that of an International standard one.
Ever since his promotion transfer to Coimbotore in April last year there has been a change of guard at the helm too often and one is bound to remember and compare his services with the present people at the top and one need not say the result has not particularly pleasing. In the last 8 months there have been four Airport Directors. M R Vasudeva B R Sena, V N Chandran and present Director Peter Abraham have been Airport Directors in the short span of 8 months. Peter Abraham assumed charge from V N Chandran in the last week of December 2009. Going by the trend one wonders how many more Directors and changes are in the offing before the new terminal sees the light of the day which is not too far if the airport authorities are to be taken on their face value.
Inauguration of new terminal in March?
With the tentative dates given for its inauguration of the new terminal getting postponed for reasons best known to the Airport Authorities both in Mangalore and Delhi, scores of people who have been fervently waiting for the new terminal to become operational, are getting impatient and are crestfallen.
According to the Peter Abraham K, the new Airport Director the new terminal will be inaugurated in March this year. However, he refused to divulge any more information including any further details on the eagerly awaiting direct flights to Saudi about which scores of people are keen to know. When daijiworld contacted him to elicit more information he could only say that 99% of the work at the terminal is complete and the remaining work would be completed by February and terminal would inaugurated in March this year. “The date of the VIP is awaited and the matter is handled by the Airport Authority of India. Mangalore Airport cannot do much about it”, he stated.

When asked whether there were any bottlenecks with regard to the new terminal to become operational he said “our work is in the finishing stage. There is no problem with the approach road to the new terminal either. We are giving a final touch to the passing facilities which are expected to be ready by February this year”.
He also evaded an answer when asked whether the terminal would become operational in the event of the formal inauguration gets postponed beyond March. With regard to direct flights from Mangalroe to Saudi he said “we are not going to start any flights as of now. It all depends on the airlines which should come forward with the proposal and the final decision will be taken at our headquarters”. In fact he was getting vexed at any query relating to the inauguration of the new terminal or about the new flights from Mangalore airport. It gave an impression as though he is yet to get acquainted with the set up and the situation here, which is indeed not expected from a person holding such an eminent post especially when Mangalore airport all set to attain international airport status. The only course left now is to hope against hope that it will be inaugurated and becomes operational by March this year. Many Mangaloreans had premonition about the things to come by and it was precisely for this reason they were saying Vasudeva should have been brought back to oversee the inauguration of the new terminal.
Saudi Flights – a non starter
Mangaloreans settled in Saudi Arabia have been fancying the idea of flying directly to Mangalore from Saudi for almost three years hoping it is only a matter of time before their long cherished dreams become a reality. They had collected signatures and had even submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister and continued their efforts in this direction. Since then there has been enormous changes and Air India Express has introduced direct flights to six gulf countries including Kuwait, Dubai, Bahrain, Doha, Muscat and Abu Dabhi. Hopes were raised for Saudi also as Air India gave a proposal to their headquarters to start direct flights. Station Manager of Air India Chellam Prasad confirmed it saying “we have given the proposal to the headquarters sometime ago and are waiting for the approval”. The present Airport Director has now stated they are not going to start any direct flights to Saudi. According to reliable source there has been no response from the Civil Aviation Ministry for the proposal.
There seems to be an orchestrated move to sideline the country’s national career and make way for private operators to make merry at the cost of the national airlines. Within the country too the national airlines has been made to bear the brunt of efforts to systematically chuck out the national airlines. According to reliable sources some flights of national airlines which were going to full strength in Mumbai and Bangalore have been stopped and given to private operators. According to reliable sources the flights to gulf countries will also be slowly handed over to the private operators who are keen to grab the opportunity. That includes flights to Saudi Arabia also and the private operators already tom-tom about this move of the Ministry. An Air India employee said on condition of anonymity that Civil Aviation Ministry is poisoning the national airlines to death and slowly the vast assets of the national airlines will also be handed over to the leading private operators. It is said that it is this move that delays the introduction of direct flights to Saudi Arabia from Mangalore.
National airlines are the pride of any country and this move to poison it to death will only give an upper hand to private operators who will then have a free hand to enhance the fair according to their whims and fancy.
One can only hope good sense prevails and such nefarious moves of the ministry are thwarted. Let us hope the long awaited of Mangaloreans in Saudi will see the light of the day soon. But first let us wait for the new terminal to become operational which, hopefully, will come about in March this year as promised.

Mangalore: Peter Abraham is Airport Director

The Hindu
Mangalore, Jan 1: Peter Abraham has taken charge as Director of Mangalore airport on Wednesday, December 30.
The Union Government has upgraded the post of Airport Director to the General Manager’s level. Mr. Abraham replaces V.N. Chandran, who has been transferred to Thiruvananthapuram. Mr. Abraham has worked at Chennai, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram airports and has undergone advanced training in air traffic services at the U.S. Federal Aviation Academy.

Mangalore: Air India Express Debut Flight to Jeddah

Mangalore: Air India Express Debut Flight to Jeddah Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (RD/CN)
Mangalore, Oct 25: The first flight of Air India Express (AIE) to Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), from Bajpe Airport, was flagged-off by union minister for external affairs S M Krishna at 12.45 pm on Sunday October 25. The aircraft carried 112 Haj pilgrims.
Krishna presented a rose to each pilgrim before they boarded the flight.
It was indeed a joyous occasion for Haj pilgrims of undivided Dakshina Kannada, Kasargod, Uttar Karnataka, and Malnad regions as they now have an easier means of going on the holy pilgrimage to Mecca.
AIE flight number 1302 will have a stopover at Kozhikode (Calicut) and the onward journey to Jeddah will be by AIE flight number 8036.
AIE city manager Chellam Prasad, local Haj committee members, state minister for Wakf and minority development Mumtaz Ali Khan, Rajya Sabha member Oscar Fernandes, Blossom Fernandes, former union minister Janardhan Poojary, and several dignitaries were present on the occasion.
The Haj training camp for pilgrims and a stage programme were held at Ansari Masjid grounds, Bajpe, on Sunday morning after which Krishna also flagged-off the buses taking the pilgrims to the airport.
Religious leaders under the leadership of Ullal Tangal Assayed Abdul Rehman Musliar performed the rituals related to the pilgrimage.

Mangalore: High Drama Mid Air – AI Inflight Crew Face up to the Challenge

Mangalore: High Drama Mid Air – AI Inflight Crew Face up to the Challenge
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SB) Mangalore,

Oct 13: Air India, India's national carrier’s nightmarish experiences seems to see no end. In the recent past, right from the impact of economic slowdown to employees strike, the company has been going through turbulent times. Air India's most profit making sector Dubai – Mangalore has embroiled itself in endless controversies since last few months. Latest is the erratic behaviour of a passenger aboard Air India Express flight from Dubai that arrived at the local airport on Sunday morning has brought the carrier in the news, especially among the Mangaloreans worldwide. The incident posed quite a challenge and tested the efficiency of the crew to handle pressure.
Official Clarification It was reported that passenger Mohammed Ashraf (28) from Puttur had bitten male in-flight crew. However, Chellam Prasad, area manager, Air India Express, Mangalore clarified that the said passenger did not bite any of the inflight crew, bit in fact had slapped the only male inflight crew Nayan Purohit on board. The other three inflight crew members were females”, she informed. "It was really a challenging job for these young crew members as they really struggled to control the changing behaviour of Ashraf, who seemed disturbed. Through out the incident, Nayan kept his cool and even went up to the extent of feeding the man with some food after the crew managed to tie his hands to the seat, said Chellam Prasad.
However, the most challenging and fearful situation arose when Ashraf rushed to the cabin threatening to open the entrance door of flight. It was exemplary presence of mind show by the crew members to control him at that stage and put him back to his seat, she said adding that at the stage he put the life of the entire 120 passengers at risk.
When queried as to why the flight think of an emergency landing at the nearby airport like it did few weeks back when flight to Dubai landed in Mumbai airport when couple of passengers misbehaved with cabin crew, Chellam Prasad said that Ashraf began creating problems midway and we were left with no option, but reach our destination.
Currently Ashraf from Kinnimajal Atoor in Puttur taluk is in police custody and the investigation is underway. Ashraf had gone to Dubai on a four-year visa to work as car driver there. Reportedly, he sought leave to visit home on September 18, but was mentally disturbed as the same was not granted.
Co-passengers’ Response
When Daijiworld contacted one of the co-passengers, she said that situation had turned tense inside the flight and behaviour of Ashraf was unacceptable. She praised the cabin crew for handling the situation in a polite and professional way. "Service of the cabin crew was pleasant throughout the journey", she said.
Chellam Prasad expressing gratitude to co-passengers, said that few of the co-passengers came to the rescue of the cabin crew, and helped bring situation under control. "We are really grateful to passengers on board, Madhukar, Mahale, Bhasker, M Khan and Ramakrishna for their timely help”, she said. Reading the incident on dajiworld, few readers from Dubai have expressed surprise over the report on the behaviour of Ashraf. A reader Samad writes "Ashraf is a strong person, and has no past history of mental problem. “However he was suffering from Asthama," he adds. Another reader writes, “Ashraf was going through depression and was under medication. Lack of sleep and heavy workload on previous day might have caused the above said behaviour, he adds.

Mentally Challenged Passenger Injures Dubai - Mangalore Flight Crew

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SP)
Mangalore, Oct 12: A mentally challenged passenger aboard the Air India Express flight from Dubai that arrived at the local airport on Sunday morning injured two of the flight crew by biting them during the flight.
Mohammed Ashraf (28) from Kinnimajal Atoor in Puttur taluk, is facing the charge of using his teeth to inflict injuries on two of the in-flight crew. Ashraf had gone to Dubai in the year 2007, on a four-year visa, to work there as car driver. Reportedly, he sought leave to visit his home on September 18, but was mentally disturbed as the same was not granted.
Ashraf, who boarded the Air India Express flight from Dubai that reaches here at 6 am, suddenly turned violent half way through the flight. He reportedly injured the chief crew Kuyal Kalari and crew member, Nayana Purohit, by biting at their ears and hands. The crew members then tied him down to his seat. As soon as the flight arrived here, he was handed over to the policemen of Bajpe station. On a complaint filed by Sunil V Bhat representing Air India, the Bajpe policemen have registered a case.
The injured crew members however, returned by the same flight, it is learnt.

Dubai - Mangalore AI Express Drama : Two Passengers Offloaded in Mumbai

Dubai - Mangalore AI Express Drama : Two Passengers Offloaded in Mumbai
By Naveen Frank, On Board IX 811Daijiworld Media Network
On Board IX811, Jul 31: Two unruly passengers travelling from Mangalore to Dubai by Air India Express IX811 were offloaded at Mumbai's Chatrapati Shivaji Airport after 45 minutes towards Dubai.
These passengers were sitting on one of the last rows of the aircraft. The captain announced that the flight will be diverted to Mumbai and the passenger handed over to the authorities.
Meanwhile our correspondent who was on the same flight spoke to the flight attendant, who said that the said passenger were agitated because alcohol was not served on this particular flight.
They demanded that they be served liquor which was refused.
The captain finally decided to divert the plane to Mumbai.
Flight Landed at Dubai Airport at 4.30am, UAE time
IX811 finally took off from Mumbai airport at 0230 hrs IST and reached its destination Dubai after a 4 hr 30 minute delay.
What needs to be asked is, was the captain justified in diverting the flight back to India, and that too Mumbai a busy airport.
The flight took off smoothly from Mangalore at aroung 2136 hrs and all was well until about 45 minutes of flying towards its destination Dubai.
The captain made a strange announcement stating that alcohol and food will not be served due to the behaviour of some passengers and the security of the crew, pssengers and athe aircraft was of absolute importance. Not many understood the seriousness of the announcement as there was no commotion nor was there any sign of any argument or raised voices. Another announcement soon followed which suggested that we were heading back to Mumbai to offload the unruly passengers. Only then did all heads turn to the back to see what had actually happened. Again, there was no sign of any verbal fight or anyone showing signs of any agitation. What made the flight attendants to complain to the captain and what made the captain take the ultimate decision to divert the aircraft to Mumbai and have the 2 passengers arrested. The 2 passengers in question were in no position to talk. The flight attendendants were tight lipped except that the 2 men demanded alcohol which was refused. They did not turn physical nor did they raise their voices. Speaking to the passengers closest to the men in question, it was learnt that initially it started with a friendly verbal conversation between the passengers and the flight crew. Somehow the flight crew could not take the constant pestering and hence must have taken a stern stand that further agitated the inibriated passengers. Would it have died down if the cabin crew just ignored them and went on to serve dinner as planned ? Nobody really knows what the passengers talked to the crew that made them approach the captain. Similar incidents are common in many flights. Normally the cabin crew pacify or control the passengers . If it goes out of hand, they normally hand him over to the authorities at the port of call. Why did not the AIE captain do the same ? Why could he not alert the Dubai authorities and hand them over on arrival ? All the other passengers would have reached on time. Why did he decide to turn around and return to India. In fact he took him more time to return and find a landing slot in the busy Mumbai airport . If security was his concern, then he ought to have headed straight to Dubai and land as quickly as possible. At the end of the day, a flight full of passengers with many small children were holed up on the aircraft for 5 hours with no food and water, limited air conditioning on the tarmac, overused toilets and a further 2 hours 30 minute flight to Dubai. Air India Express is duty bound to tell their passengers as to why they took such a drastic step for what seemed to be a simple case of unruly behaviour !

Dubai - Mangalore AI Express Drama : Two Passengers Offloaded in Mumbai

Dubai - Mangalore AI Express Drama : Two Passengers Offloaded in Mumbai
By Naveen Frank, On Board IX 811Daijiworld Media Network
On Board IX811, Jul 31: Two unruly passengers travelling from Mangalore to Dubai by Air India Express IX811 were offloaded at Mumbai's Chatrapati Shivaji Airport after 45 minutes towards Dubai.
These passengers were sitting on one of the last rows of the aircraft. The captain announced that the flight will be diverted to Mumbai and the passenger handed over to the authorities.
Meanwhile our correspondent who was on the same flight spoke to the flight attendant, who said that the said passenger were agitated because alcohol was not served on this particular flight.
They demanded that they be served liquor which was refused.
The captain finally decided to divert the plane to Mumbai.
Flight Landed at Dubai Airport at 4.30am, UAE time
IX811 finally took off from Mumbai airport at 0230 hrs IST and reached its destination Dubai after a 4 hr 30 minute delay.
What needs to be asked is, was the captain justified in diverting the flight back to India, and that too Mumbai a busy airport.
The flight took off smoothly from Mangalore at aroung 2136 hrs and all was well until about 45 minutes of flying towards its destination Dubai.
The captain made a strange announcement stating that alcohol and food will not be served due to the behaviour of some passengers and the security of the crew, pssengers and athe aircraft was of absolute importance. Not many understood the seriousness of the announcement as there was no commotion nor was there any sign of any argument or raised voices. Another announcement soon followed which suggested that we were heading back to Mumbai to offload the unruly passengers. Only then did all heads turn to the back to see what had actually happened. Again, there was no sign of any verbal fight or anyone showing signs of any agitation. What made the flight attendants to complain to the captain and what made the captain take the ultimate decision to divert the aircraft to Mumbai and have the 2 passengers arrested. The 2 passengers in question were in no position to talk. The flight attendendants were tight lipped except that the 2 men demanded alcohol which was refused. They did not turn physical nor did they raise their voices. Speaking to the passengers closest to the men in question, it was learnt that initially it started with a friendly verbal conversation between the passengers and the flight crew. Somehow the flight crew could not take the constant pestering and hence must have taken a stern stand that further agitated the inibriated passengers. Would it have died down if the cabin crew just ignored them and went on to serve dinner as planned ? Nobody really knows what the passengers talked to the crew that made them approach the captain. Similar incidents are common in many flights. Normally the cabin crew pacify or control the passengers . If it goes out of hand, they normally hand him over to the authorities at the port of call. Why did not the AIE captain do the same ? Why could he not alert the Dubai authorities and hand them over on arrival ? All the other passengers would have reached on time. Why did he decide to turn around and return to India. In fact he took him more time to return and find a landing slot in the busy Mumbai airport . If security was his concern, then he ought to have headed straight to Dubai and land as quickly as possible. At the end of the day, a flight full of passengers with many small children were holed up on the aircraft for 5 hours with no food and water, limited air conditioning on the tarmac, overused toilets and a further 2 hours 30 minute flight to Dubai. Air India Express is duty bound to tell their passengers as to why they took such a drastic step for what seemed to be a simple case of unruly behaviour !

Dubai - Mangalore AI Express Drama : Two Passengers Offloaded in Mumbai

Dubai - Mangalore AI Express Drama : Two Passengers Offloaded in Mumbai
By Naveen Frank, On Board IX 811Daijiworld Media Network
On Board IX811, Jul 31: Two unruly passengers travelling from Mangalore to Dubai by Air India Express IX811 were offloaded at Mumbai's Chatrapati Shivaji Airport after 45 minutes towards Dubai.
These passengers were sitting on one of the last rows of the aircraft. The captain announced that the flight will be diverted to Mumbai and the passenger handed over to the authorities.
Meanwhile our correspondent who was on the same flight spoke to the flight attendant, who said that the said passenger were agitated because alcohol was not served on this particular flight.
They demanded that they be served liquor which was refused.
The captain finally decided to divert the plane to Mumbai.
Flight Landed at Dubai Airport at 4.30am, UAE time
IX811 finally took off from Mumbai airport at 0230 hrs IST and reached its destination Dubai after a 4 hr 30 minute delay.
What needs to be asked is, was the captain justified in diverting the flight back to India, and that too Mumbai a busy airport.
The flight took off smoothly from Mangalore at aroung 2136 hrs and all was well until about 45 minutes of flying towards its destination Dubai.
The captain made a strange announcement stating that alcohol and food will not be served due to the behaviour of some passengers and the security of the crew, pssengers and athe aircraft was of absolute importance. Not many understood the seriousness of the announcement as there was no commotion nor was there any sign of any argument or raised voices. Another announcement soon followed which suggested that we were heading back to Mumbai to offload the unruly passengers. Only then did all heads turn to the back to see what had actually happened. Again, there was no sign of any verbal fight or anyone showing signs of any agitation. What made the flight attendants to complain to the captain and what made the captain take the ultimate decision to divert the aircraft to Mumbai and have the 2 passengers arrested. The 2 passengers in question were in no position to talk. The flight attendendants were tight lipped except that the 2 men demanded alcohol which was refused. They did not turn physical nor did they raise their voices. Speaking to the passengers closest to the men in question, it was learnt that initially it started with a friendly verbal conversation between the passengers and the flight crew. Somehow the flight crew could not take the constant pestering and hence must have taken a stern stand that further agitated the inibriated passengers. Would it have died down if the cabin crew just ignored them and went on to serve dinner as planned ? Nobody really knows what the passengers talked to the crew that made them approach the captain. Similar incidents are common in many flights. Normally the cabin crew pacify or control the passengers . If it goes out of hand, they normally hand him over to the authorities at the port of call. Why did not the AIE captain do the same ? Why could he not alert the Dubai authorities and hand them over on arrival ? All the other passengers would have reached on time. Why did he decide to turn around and return to India. In fact he took him more time to return and find a landing slot in the busy Mumbai airport . If security was his concern, then he ought to have headed straight to Dubai and land as quickly as possible. At the end of the day, a flight full of passengers with many small children were holed up on the aircraft for 5 hours with no food and water, limited air conditioning on the tarmac, overused toilets and a further 2 hours 30 minute flight to Dubai. Air India Express is duty bound to tell their passengers as to why they took such a drastic step for what seemed to be a simple case of unruly behaviour !

Mangalore: It’s Smooth Ride to Airport Down the Road Come September

Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (RS/SB)
Mangalore, Jul 7: The new integrated terminal building of the Mangalore Airport at Bajpe here is all set to be inaugurated in the first week of September. And now the two-way road via Kenjar connecting airport that reduces the distance to the airport by eight kilometres is almost ready and will be opened for traffic at the time of terminal’s inaugural.
The major works of the newly constructed road are almost finished with electrification works pending, which will render the roads more convenient. It is the state government’s project which has been implemented using the Asian Development Bank loan and the work contract was given to Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation (KUIDFC). The new road, which was planned as a four-way, is now a two-way lane after innumerable controversies and alleged private excavations in hillock, where the road project was framed.
According to Syed Elyas Pasha, KUIDFC executive engineer the road will open for traffic from September after it is handed over to Airport Authority of India (AAI). The minor works related to the new road, which includes place markings on the road and power supply to the lights, are pending, added Pasha. The existing road via Dakkan Park will be used as an entry to airport, whereas the new road will be to exit from the airport, as per the sources in AAI. But nothing in this regard has been finalized as yet.

The total cost of the project is estimated at Rs 8.89 crore that includes strengthening of the existing road of 1.25 kilometres which was under the supervision of public works department. These works apart, a new 875-metre long road from Kenjar village junction to new airport terminus too has been laid.
The project that was conceptualized two years ago is now finally ready. Initially, the project faced hurdles as far as acquisition of land was concerned with few landowners refusing to part with their land. After the issue was resolved, the KUIDFC took up the works of construction of the road.
Meanwhile, another interesting fact is that Mangalore City Corporation had begun road works from KPT circle to Maravoor bridge in the name of airport connectivity road. After finishing works on one-kilometre stretch, the work gained a sluggish pace and is yet to be completed though MCC has received both central and state government grants. The contractors have been blamed for the slow progress of work. Once the project is completed then the way to the airport is all smooth.

Dubai: Kingfisher Airlines Announces Launch of UAE-India Flights

Report by Shodhan Prasad and Rajesh Sequeira
Pics by Sujay Bendore
Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Jun 25: Kingfisher Airlines, India's only Five Star airline rated by Skytrax, today announced its entry into the Middle East connecting India and the UAE, as part of its strategy of expanding its global footprint and adding new destinations to its international route network.

In a message sent to commemorate the launch of this new international route of Kingfisher Airlines, Dr. Vijay Mallya, Chairman and CEO, Kingfisher Airlines Limited, said, “Ever since its launch, Kingfisher Airlines has raised the bar with many market-firsts and innovations that have completely redefined the whole experience of flying. Given the strong linkages between the UAE and India, the launch of this new route will mean that travelers will now have the option to enjoy the award-winning Kingfisher Experience.”

Addressing the media at a press conference at the launch of its daily direct flights from Dubai to Bangalore, Siva Ramachandran, Vice President-Global Sales, Kingfisher Airlines Limited said: “I am delighted to announce the commencement of flights between Dubai and Bangalore which marks our entry into the UAE market for the first time. Dubai is the airline’s fourth international destination after London, Colombo and Dhaka. The flights between Dubai and Bangalore will be operated using the A320 family of aircraft featuring Kingfisher Class, the premium economy service from Kingfisher Airlines. What is unique to Kingfisher Airlines is that it has one of the largest networks in India connecting over 50 destinations from Bangalore which will assure seamless connectivity to our guests from the UAE who intend to fly to practically any major Indian city.”

Describing the launch of Kingfisher Airlines’ flight as an important development that further solidifies the strong links between the two vibrant and emerging economies and two vital entities, Mr. Richard Talian, Vice President, Strategy, Dubai Airports said, “While Dubai is the business and leisure capital of the region, Bangalore is the heart of India’s multi-billion dollar IT sector. And whereas Dubai Airports is considered one the world’s leading aviation hubs, Kingfisher Airlines is one of India’s fastest growing international carriers.”

The award-winning Kingfisher Experience includes onboard comforts so that guests are able to rest in the roomiest seats in the sky with a wide seat pitch and ample room to stretch their legs. Moreover, the dining options ensure that guests have an ample spread with a choice of mouth-watering options and a perfect accompaniment from a selection of beverages on board. The In-Flight Entertainment system will ensure enthralling world-class entertainment with a personal system on every seat featuring the latest blockbuster movies, English and Hindi TV programmes and Kingfisher Radio.

Ramachandran highlighted that the newly launched flights offer the best-in-class experience amongst the narrow-body products serving this route and this coupled with ideal and convenient timings, will offer travelers on this route a better option. “Our aim is to offer unprecedented convenience and comfort to our customers, both Indian expats as well as tourists from both countries. Thanks to our very competitive fares and Kingfisher Airlines’ vast and unparalleled domestic network in India, the initial response to the launch of these new flights has been extremely encouraging and we look forward to rapidly consolidating our market share on this new international route.”

The flight will take off from Dubai at 10:10 pm and reach Bangalore at 3:45 am, the following day. Kingfisher Airlines flights operate from Terminal 1 of Dubai Airport. The flights are conveniently timed with the flight from Bangalore leaving at 6:15 pm and reaching Dubai at 8:55 pm, local time.

Guests flying in to Bangalore from Dubai on Kingfisher Airlines will now have the added advantage of having very conveniently timed onward connections to many domestic destinations in India with almost immediate connections from Bangalore to Mangalore, Goa, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Pune, Kolkata, Hubli, Belgaum, Nagpur, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad and all major metros in India. In addition, guests will also have the option of conveniently timed onward connections on Kingfisher Airlines flights to international destinations like Colombo and Dhaka.

Bangalore is ideally placed as a transit hub for travelers flying from Belgaum, Chennai, Calicut, Coimbatore, Hubli, Kochi, Mangalore, Thiruvananthapuram and Vijaywada into Dubai as it offers easy connectivity, thanks to the fact that it has a minimum connect time. Outbound travelers connecting with this flight of Kingfisher Airlines will not have to change or transfer from one airport terminal to another as the domestic and international sections are less than 100 meters away from each other.

Kingfisher Airlines caters to all segments of the air travel ranging from low-fare service-Kingfisher Red, to the premium economy service-Kingfisher Class, to the luxurious Kingfisher First.

Speaking on the subject Rajesh Sequeira of NRI Forum questioned them on the Mangalore sector for which the officials said it would be in their top priority. Rajesh also put up a question on the Hotel connections arrangement they have and they said that they have all these facilities arranged with a good grade hotels. The other feature Kingfisher has as an add on is a baggage allowance of 40 kg. each on both way.

The press Conference was held at the Spice Ball Room of Atlantis Hotel, Dubai on thursday June 25, 2009.

This is the first daily flight connecting Dubai to the Garden City of India, Bangalore by Kingfisher Airlines.

About Kingfisher Airlines:

Kingfisher Airlines is India's only Five Star airline rated by Skytrax, and the only one to offer premium first class service on domestic routes. Besides being the first and only airline in India to offer in-flight entertainment on every seat, Kingfisher offers LIVE TV on many domestic routes in India with 16 channels of live and exciting content. The airline has received numerous awards for innovation, customer responsiveness and was voted the ‘Best New Airline of the Year’, within months of its launch.

Kingfisher Airlines is a part of the UB Group that is one of India’s largest conglomerates with diverse interests and a global presence. Kingfisher Airlines covers all segments of air travel from low fares to premium service and offers most flights by any single airline network in India. Kingfisher Airlines now connects 69 cities in India with a fleet of 74 aircraft and operates over 400 flights a day in India.

For Booking: http://www.flykingfisher.com/

Kingfisher announced a special return fare of Dhs.1,250/- inclusive of all taxes to the South Indian Sectors. Any one who wish to fly any South Indian Sectors including Mangalore can avail this special opportunity but however the tickets needs to be booked and purchased prior to 31st July, 2009. Once booked the validity of these ticket will be until 31/12/2009.

The press conference was arranged very well in this prestigious hotel of Dubai with a number of correspondents from various Media, Press and T.V. present at the function. The function would have got more glamour if the big boss Vijay Mallya himself would have been present.

We will now have daily direct flights to Bangalore from Dubai and later to other cities including Mangalore. Another sector from Abu Dhabi to Bangalore is in scanner and may be considered at a later date as per the officials.

Mangalore Airport New Terminal - Final Countdown Begins...

by Florine Roche -
Pics by Dayananda Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network

B R Sena, Joint General Manager (CNS) took over the reigns of the Mangalore Airport from the dynamic M R Vasudeva in April this year, who accepted his promotion after dithering for almost 8 months. M R Vasudeva during his tenure had set high standards and gave a new impetus to the Mangalore airport. Naturally, B R Sena had the tough time living up to the expectations set by his predecessor. But the issue of appointing him as the Airport Director is also shrouded in uncertainty depriving him of taking any vital decisions in his news postings.

Undaunted by these high expectations Sena has been going about his work with the same tempo and enthusiasm to make the Integrated Terminal Building of Mangalore Airport operational as early as possible. It means that the commissioning of the much awaited new Integrated Terminal Building will succeed in providing international airport status to Mangalore Airport. It will be a major victory for all those who have been trying hard in realizing this dream of many years.

Speaking to Daijiworld Sena said that Chairman of Airport Authority of India had visited and surveyed the work at the new terminal on May 7, 2009. “Based on this assessment the target date for the completion of the building is set as 31st July, 2009. Technical people in charge of the work have been positive about completing the work by this stipulated time. If everything goes as expected the inauguration of the new terminal will be held in the first week of September and at the same time the operations will also be shifted to the new terminal”, he explained.

The Civil and Engineering work will be completed by the end of July this year. Priority will then be given to provide other basic and essential services at the new terminal building. “The day the first passenger of the first flight arrives he has to be impressed and gauge the availability of all the facilities. Within the next seven days the airport terminal should be equipped with all the facilities”, Sena pointed out.

Adhering to the deadline it has set is feasible in an ideal situating assuming that everything goes right and there are no bottlenecks in the way of completing the project. According to Sena the only bottleneck visible at the moment is whether the oil browsers (oil tankers) will be able to move in the approach road or not due to its steepness. If these browsers are not able to move in this steep road then we have to find an alternate road for the purpose of transporting refuel facility for aircrafts. Once the operations are shifted to the new terminal the old building will be used for cargo handling and the continuance of the same will depend on the volume of cargo.

B R Sena who is from Kolkotta has served in different places all over the country including Bangalore. He has opted for serving in Mangalore after a long stint of almost 8 years in HAL airport, Bangalore, handling operations there at the crucial time between 2004 and 2008 when air traffic was at the peak. When M R Vasudeva was transferred Sena opted for Mangalore. Since his family is in Bangalore it makes commuting between Mangalore and Bangalore easier so that he can visit his family when required. He likes everything about Mangalore including its climate which is similar to his native Kolkotta. “The atmosphere is peaceful and people are really nice. I have stayed in many places during my 27 years of service. But this is the one place where all my belongings have remained safe though I was away from Mangalore for more than a month”, he recalls.

For Sena every work is challenging and every challenge is interesting. Let us hope he takes up the challenge of completing the new terminal before the stipulated time giving international status to Mangalore airport.

Having realized that parking contractors were not doing justice by charging car parking fee to every vehicle that came to the airport Sena has come to the rescue of those vehicles that entered the airport just for picking or dropping their relatives or friends. Now a time limit of 10 minutes is given for four wheelers without charging any parking fee once they enter the airport. In the new terminal building the system will be computerized where no vehicles can escape from paying parking fee beyond the 10 minute time frame allowed for vehicles.

Fond Farewell to Mangalore Airport Director M R Vasudeva

Fond Farewell to Mangalore Airport Director M R Vasudeva

Pics: Dayananda Kukkaje Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (RS/CN)
Mangalore, Apr 3: M R Vasudeva, Mangalore Airport Director, a down to earth personality, an achiever par excellence, responsible for having Mangalore airport marked on the International map through his dedicated service to the cause finally bade good bye to Mangalore Airport and accepted his promotion as General Manager at Coimbatore Airport.
With the efforts from NRE organizations and others , he managed to delay his departure for about 8 months, thanks to Civil Aviation minister Praful Patel. But due to the forthcoming general elections and not to put his promotion at risk, Vasudeva decided to move from Mangalore as he had no assurances from the Central government that he would be retained as General Manager in Mangalore.
"I am extremely satisfied with my achievement and progress of Mangalore airport. Due to dedicated team work, we have achieved so much within a short span of time" said Vasudev while speaking to daijiworld. He is grateful to daijiworld.com for conveying Mangalore airport updates right from the first step of planning international flights till date, which he described it as a tremendous media coverage.A farewell programme was held for M R Vasudeva, director of Mangalore Airport, on Friday April 3, following his promotional transfer to Coimbatore.
The programme was organized by the staff of the Airport Authority of India (AAI) and held at the arrival hall of the airport. Besides AAI staff, association members and airways staff felicitated Vasudeva with garlands and mementos.
Addressing the function, the new director of Mangalore airport, B R Sena said that Mangalore airport had grown to an international level due to the efforts of his predecessor.
“He faced the challenge of expansion by putting in all efforts to make the airport a sophisticated one”, said Sena. He wished Vasudeva the best in all his future endeavours. T K Thomas, DGM (ATC) said, “A leader like Vasudeva only can achieve such things like the expansion of a tiny airport to a large one”.
A K Khandewal, deputy commandant of CISF, said that Vasudeva’s achievements would stay here for ever irrespective of where he is transferred.
A K Kanrar of the AAI Employees’ Association also echoed these views.
Challam Prasad, Air India, and members from AAI employees’ union, taxi association union and others also spoke on the occasion.
Vasudeva said, “Developments in airports are done by teamwork. We did it by joining hands. Each and every staff member should be congratulated for the work done here.
Development was needed in this airport, be it expansion or the runways or the terminal building; every thing is done with support and co-operation. Hence, we have a state-of-the-art airport”.
Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, who was the chief guest, said that Vasudeva had achieved a lot for the airport during his tenure. “His friendly nature and pleasant words make him beloved to all. This quality of his was a part of his success”, said Kalkura also recognizing Vasudeva’s interest in activities like literature and other programmes.
A J K Radhakrishnan, DGM (Civil) welcomed all. AI employees’ union secretary Shivanna gave the vote of thanks and J C Manjunath was the compere.

Mangalore: Airports Authority of India Observes Foundation Day

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SN/SP)
Mangalore, Apr 2: The Foundation Day of Airports Authority of India was observed at Bajpe Airport here on Wednesday April 1.
Speaking on the occasion, M R Vasudev, former director of Mangalore Airport, said that the airport has a very important role to play in the development of the district.
Mangalore Airport has now got the international status with its improved service and facilities. It will soon develop further, with the addition of additional new facilities. The challenges and problems during the developmental stage of any airport are common, but care should be taken to ensure that they are properly addressed, he advised.
"M R Vasudev's contribution in the development of the airport is praiseworthy and the person who takes charge of the responsibility of the airport has to carry his good work further,” said Srinivas Kamat, Kanara Chamber of Commerce vice president.
B R Sena, Mangalore Airport director, presided over the function and delivered the introductory speech.
Prem Prasad, deputy general manager, welcomed the gathering. G T Radhakrishnan proposed vote of thanks. Rajan Gopi compered the programme.

Riyadh - Dammam - Mangalore Direct Flight On the Cards

Riyadh - Dammam - Mangalore Direct Flight On the Cards
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore Mangalore, Mar 25: As announced on daijiworld.com last month, Air India Express had confirmed its plan to fly Dammam - Mangalore direct by the end of March, 2009. The plan is still on and is awaiting a green signal from the Civil Aviation department. Owing to the forthcoming general elections, the execution of the plan may be delayed by a few weeks. But there is no second thought on flying directly from Saudi Arabian soil to Mangalore, says AI Express officials.
A senior officer, who did not want to be identified told daijiworld that, after the announcement of Dammam - Mangalore flight, there had been tremendous pressure on AI Express from Coastal Karnataka based organizations in Riyadh to extend the service also to Riyadh as there are a number of potential passengers from both Coastal Karnataka and Kasardgod living there. Bowing to pressure, AI Express is now considering another option of flying Riyadh - Dammam - Mangalore. "The plan is surely on the cards, but I cannot assure you at the moment. But Riaydh bound Mangaloreans have every reason to cheer when the news is confirmed" said the AI Express official.
Meanwhile, AI Express has submitted the approval for thrice-weekly flights from Dammam - Mangalore. Due to the current situation, they might reduce the schedules to twice a week, instead of three times a week. Eventually, depending on the load, the frequency may be upgraded.
Dubai - Mangalore reduced Nine Flights per Week:
Due to certain technical difficulties, the scheduled 10 flights per week from Air India Express between Dubai - Mangalore have been reduced to 9 a week. From March 14 to April 14 the Wednesday morning flight will not be operating, but it will continue to operate after April 14, said an Air India Express official
Airport Director to Finally go ?
Due to tremendous pressure from NRI organizations, the current Airport director Vasudev Rao has been retained until completion of the new terminal. But Vasudev Rao has still not received his promotion . He has decided to move as General Manager to Coimbatore Int Airport in the coming weeks, daijiworld learnt from some reliable sources. When Daijiworld contacted the Airport director, he said that due to request from various organizations and direction from the Civil Aviation minister he had been able to delay his transfer until now.

Mangalore Airport Revenues On the Upswing

DHNS
Mangalore, Mar 8: Revenues and passenger numbers at the Mangalore airport have not only been steady, but also set for an upswing.
The airport is expected to garner a profit of Rs 8 crore in 2008-’09, only marginally less than the Rs 9-crore profit it had made in 2007-08.
“We are extremely satisfied with the profits, given the sluggish traffic and slowdown of the economy. The new integrated terminal building will be ready by May, and help improve the traffic even more,” M R Vasudeva, Airport Director, Mangalore Airport. One more international plane - the Dammam, to Saudi Arabia - will fly out from Mangalore from March 25.
The flight, which was introduced following public demand, will operate twice a week. “This will also bring in more passengers,” said Vasudeva.
Things have changed
Till 2005, Mangalore airport had made operating losses of up to Rs 2.5 crore per annum. But in 2006, after the introduction of international flights to Dubai, things have changed for the better.
Operating profits touched Rs 9 crore in 2008.
“Prior to 2005, we had handled only 3,500 aircraft movements per annum. But in 2008, we handled 12,000. Air passenger numbers have also gone up from 2.77 lakh to 7.05 lakh in the period,” Vasudeva stated.
Now, the officials want to step on the accelerator - A sum of Rs 147 crore is being spent for airport upgradation.
Two aero-bridges and seven escalators will also be in place from May.
“Once the access road from the city to the airport is built by the government, there will be no looking back,” said Vasudeva.