Democratizing Air Travel for Every Indian: Propelling the Government's ‘Ease of Flying’ Vision

The Indian aviation landscape is witnessing a paradigm shift with the surge in demand for air travel from all corners of the country, not limited to metros. Once perceived as peripheral, India’s tier 2 and tier 3 cities have emerged as critical nodes in India’s expanding air travel network, signaling a noteworthy progression in purchasing power and overall economic landscape. Flying is no longer a luxury in India— 

It is becoming a necessity for millions of Indians across socio-economic strata. As India prepares to cater to its diverse spectrum of travelers, the Civil Aviation Ministry’s ‘ease of flying’ vision becomes even more important to ensure that all Indians can take to the skies with ease and confidence. Making flying easier, affordable and accessible is integral to promoting national integration, fostering holistic connectivity and providing impetus to the industry’s growth. 

While government’s initiatives such as the UDAN scheme, modernization of airports, regulation of airfares, promotion of low-cost carriers and integration of technologies such as biometric boarding i.e., DigiYatra have set the stage for an inclusive air travel ecosystem, airlines need to ensure a hassle-free flying experience for its passengers. 

• Accessibility: Increased accessibility is at the core of the vision, and it has become imperative for Indian airlines to contribute to metro to non-metro connectivity. At Akasa Air, we are committed to making air travel accessible for a greater number of Indians with reliable operations and affordable fares, and through our phased approach, we have built a holistic air network connecting metros with tier 2 and tier 3 cities. Our fares are in line with our vision of democratizing air travel in India for everyone and affordability shall continue to be our key focus for our passengers. 

• Inclusivity: It is important for airlines to ensure a seamless travel experience for all, regardless of their physical abilities, age, gender, or background. At Akasa Air, we believe that the sky embraces everyone, so air travel should be inclusive and affordable for all.
• Technology: Technology is the linchpin for a frictionless flying experience. At Akasa Air, we believe in leveraging technology to ensure efficient operations and a seamless flying experience for our customers. Akasa Air has deployed technological solutions across its entire value chain to ensure a unified experience for customers across channels.
• Diverse and Personalized Customer Offerings: India’s vast geography means that travelers from different regions will have different preferences, and the industry must reflect this diversity in their service portfolio as well. Akasa’s onboard meal service Café Akasa presents a highly evolved assortment of multi-cuisine, tasty and healthy meals, ensuring wide-ranging culinary preferences, as we uphold our ethos of serving a high-quality, elevated flying experience to our valued customers.
• Warm Customer Experience: A friendly and supportive crew on board and on ground is what eventually ties it all together. It is crucial that crew members and airport support staff are well equipped to serve all passengers, whether first-time fliers or frequent ones, to offer a truly inclusive experience.

For air travel to truly serve the masses, it must transcend its historical perception as a luxury and become an affordable, efficient, and accessible necessity. 

At Akasa Air, customers are at the heart of everything we do, and as we chart our growth, we not only aim to tap India’s potential for air travel but also make flying accessible, easier and affordable for a greater number of Indians, at every step, working collaboratively with the Government to ensure the Government’s ‘ease of flying’ vision is made a reality!

In a groundbreaking move, Air India has become the first airline in India to offer in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity on domestic flights. This innovation marks a significant step forward in modernizing air travel, ensuring passengers remain connected while soaring thousands of feet above the ground.

Seamless Connectivity Across the Skies

Passengers aboard Air India’s Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select Airbus A321neo aircraft can now browse the internet, check social media, work, or text their loved ones during flights above 10,000 feet. The service, available on Wi-Fi-enabled devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones, is free of charge, making it an enticing addition to Air India’s offerings.

Multiple Device Support

The Wi-Fi service allows passengers to connect multiple devices simultaneously, ensuring convenience for tech-savvy travelers who rely on various gadgets. Whether using iOS or Android systems, travelers can stay productive and entertained throughout their journey.

Expansion Beyond Domestic Flights

This latest initiative follows a successful pilot program on Air India’s international routes, including flights to New York, London, Paris, and Singapore. By extending this feature to domestic flights, the Tata-owned airline is setting a new standard for in-flight experiences.

Chief Customer Experience Officer’s Statement

Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Air India, emphasized the importance of connectivity in today’s travel landscape. “Connectivity is now an integral part of modern travel. For some, it is about the convenience and comfort of real-time sharing, while for others, it is about greater productivity and efficiency. Whatever be one’s purpose, we are confident that our guests will appreciate having the option of connecting to the web and enjoy the new Air India experience on board these aircraft,” he stated.

Simple Steps to Access In-Flight Wi-Fi

Accessing Wi-Fi on Air India flights is straightforward and user-friendly. Here’s how passengers can get online:

• Enable Wi-Fi: Turn on Wi-Fi on your device and go to Wi-Fi settings.
• Select the Network: Choose the ‘Air India Wi-Fi’ network.
• Authenticate: You will be redirected to the Air India portal in your browser. Enter your PNR and last name.
• Enjoy Complimentary Internet Access: Start browsing, working, or connecting with loved ones.

Limitations and Future Plans

While Air India aims to expand Wi-Fi availability across its fleet, there are some caveats. Wi-Fi access depends on satellite connectivity, bandwidth usage, and compliance with government regulations. Nevertheless, this move underscores the airline’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and keeping pace with global standards.

A Bold Step Forward

By integrating Wi-Fi on domestic flights, Air India has positioned itself as a leader in aviation innovation within India. This service is more than just a convenience; it’s a reflection of how technology is reshaping the travel experience. Passengers can now stay connected, productive, and entertained, making their time in the skies as seamless as possible.

As Air India continues to upgrade its fleet and services, passengers can look forward to a future where staying connected at 30,000 feet is the norm rather than the exception. The sky, indeed, is no longer the limit!

2024 has proven to be a turbulent year for Boeing. The Washington-based aerospace giant not only bid farewell to its CEO, Dave Calhoun, who now serves as a board member, but also faced a series of safety concerns. Early in the year, the aviation world was stunned when a plug door blew out mid-flight on a new Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX above Portland. This incident heightened scrutiny from regulators, adding to Boeing’s operational challenges.

The numbers tell a clear story of struggle: as of November 2024, Boeing delivered just 318 aircraft, significantly lower than its 2023 total of 461 and even further from its 2022 output of 528. This steep decline underscores the impact of ongoing labor disputes, such as the strike by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, which was resolved only in the final quarter of the year.

Airbus: Steady Growth Amid Challenges

Across the Atlantic, Airbus has maintained its position as the leading aircraft manufacturer for the fifth consecutive year. By the end of November 2024, Airbus had delivered 643 aircraft, a modest increase from 623 in 2023. November was particularly fruitful for Airbus, with 84 deliveries compared to Boeing’s mere 13.

Airbus has also been ambitious in its goals, targeting 770 deliveries for 2024. Although achieving this would require an extraordinary 127 deliveries in December, the manufacturer’s past performance—112 units delivered in December 2023—suggests it is not out of reach. Airbus’ supply chain improvements and its focus on high-demand models like the A320 and the A321XLR have positioned it well for continued growth.

Comparative Delivery Figures (2022–2024)

Production Struggles and Plans for Recovery

Boeing’s Road Ahead

Boeing’s 2024 performance was further hindered by reduced production rates. In November, only 13 aircraft left the assembly line: nine 737 MAX jets, two 777s, and two 787s. The ongoing machinists’ strike and stringent quality checks following the Alaska Airlines incident contributed to the slowdown.

However, there is optimism on the horizon. Boeing plans to ramp up production of its 787 Dreamliner to five per month in 2025 and aims for ten per month by late 2026. Additionally, the highly anticipated 777X is now slated for entry into service in 2026, signaling a potential turnaround for the company.

Airbus Looks to Expand

For Airbus, the focus remains on overcoming supply chain challenges and scaling up production. The A320 production rate, currently at 52 per month, is set to increase to 75 per month by 2027. Meanwhile, the Airbus A321XLR, designed for long-haul flights in smaller markets, has already made waves, with Iberia becoming its launch customer in late 2024. Increased output of this model will further strengthen Airbus’ foothold in the market.

What Lies Ahead?

While 2024 highlighted the stark divide between Boeing and Airbus, both manufacturers are looking ahead with plans to boost production and innovate. Boeing’s efforts to increase output and improve its safety record will be critical in restoring confidence, while Airbus’ steady growth and ambitious targets position it to continue its dominance.

As we enter 2025, the aviation industry will be watching closely to see if Boeing can recover its footing or if Airbus will extend its lead further. What’s certain is that the competition between these aerospace giants will remain intense, driving innovation and shaping the future of aviation.

In a significant move to bolster border security and enhance passenger risk analysis, airlines operating international flights to and from India will soon be required to share extensive passenger details with Indian Customs authorities. This mandate, set to take effect on April 1, 2025, underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening its interdiction capabilities. Here's what you need to know about this upcoming regulation and its implications.

Mandatory Data Sharing Requirements

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has outlined the data-sharing framework under the ‘Passenger Name Record Information Regulations, 2022.’ Airlines will need to:

• Register with the National Customs Targeting Centre-Passenger (NCTC-Pax) by January 10, 2025.
• Share comprehensive passenger details at least 24 hours before the departure of an international flight.

Details to be Shared

The information airlines must provide includes:

• Passenger Information: Full name, contact details (email ID, mobile number), and details of travel companions on the same booking.
• Travel Details: Travel itinerary, baggage information, ticket issuance date, and intended travel plans.
• Payment Details: Billing and payment information, including credit card numbers.
• Additional Data: Information about travel agencies and code-share agreements (when an airline sells seats on another carrier's flight).

Phased Rollout of the System

To facilitate a smooth transition, the CBIC has planned a phased rollout:

• Pilot Phase: Selected airlines willing to participate will test the PNRGOV system by February 10, 2025.
• Full Operation: Individual airlines will comply starting April 1, 2025, while airlines operating through the Global Distribution System (GDS) will be integrated by June 1, 2025.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Airlines failing to comply with the regulations will face stringent penalties ranging from Rs.25,000 to Rs.50,000 per violation. The Customs department’s proactive approach ensures no room for error in implementing this mandate.

Enhancing Security and Passenger Risk Analysis

The primary objective of these regulations is to enhance the government’s ability to:

• Intercept Potential Threats: By identifying high-risk individuals before they enter or leave the country.
• Improve Risk Analysis: Utilize passenger data for advanced analytics, aiding in faster and more effective decision-making.

Key Takeaways for Airlines and Travelers

• For Airlines: Preparation is critical. Airlines must prioritize system upgrades, employee training, and adherence to data-sharing deadlines to avoid penalties.
• For Travelers: Expect a more streamlined yet secure travel process, as authorities leverage passenger data to minimize potential threats.

Looking Ahead

As the aviation industry gears up for this transformative change, the collaboration between airlines and government authorities will play a pivotal role in ensuring the regulation’s success. By 2025, India’s customs and border security operations aim to set a benchmark for efficiency and safety in global travel.

India is taking a significant leap forward in the aviation sector with the introduction of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024. This landmark legislation, replacing the 90-year-old Aircraft Act of 1934, is set to come into force on January 1, 2025. The new Act promises to transform the regulatory framework for the design, manufacturing, and operation of aircraft in India, aiming to bolster the country's position in the global aviation market.

A Modern Framework for a Growing Market

India’s civil aviation industry is one of the fastest-growing in the world, with increasing demand for air travel and a surge in aviation infrastructure. Recognizing the need for a contemporary legal framework, the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, was passed by Parliament earlier this month.

This legislation introduces updated provisions for the regulation and control of design, manufacture, maintenance, possession, use, operation, sale, export, and import of aircraft. The objective is to align India’s aviation laws with global standards and remove redundancies that have accumulated over decades of amendments to the previous Aircraft Act.

Key Provisions of the New Act

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam introduces several forward-thinking measures to enhance India’s aviation landscape:

Ease of Doing Business:

• The Act simplifies procedures for obtaining licenses and approvals, making it easier for companies to operate in the aviation sector.

Boost to Indigenous Manufacturing:

• By providing a regulatory framework for designing and manufacturing aircraft within India, the Act supports the government’s Make in India initiative.

Streamlined Regulations:

• The legislation eliminates outdated provisions and ensures a cohesive approach to aviation governance.

Encouraging Innovation:

• Provisions for regulating advanced technologies such as unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and emerging aircraft designs underscore the Act’s forward-looking nature.

Replacing the Aircraft Act of 1934

The Aircraft Act of 1934 served as the foundation for India’s aviation regulations for nearly a century. Over time, it underwent 21 amendments to address emerging challenges and advancements in aviation. However, the patchwork nature of these amendments created inefficiencies and gaps that the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam seeks to address comprehensively.

Implications for the Industry

With the new Act, India aims to attract global investments and foster an environment conducive to innovation in aviation. The provisions are expected to:

• Encourage local manufacturing of aircraft components and systems.
• Support exports of indigenous aviation technologies.
• Enhance safety and compliance measures in line with international standards.

Why Now?

India’s rapid urbanization and economic growth have driven a surge in air travel demand. The government’s commitment to developing airports, improving connectivity, and increasing fleet sizes highlights the need for a robust legal structure to support these ambitions. By implementing the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, the country is positioning itself as a global leader in aviation innovation and manufacturing.

Challenges Ahead

While the Act brings promise, its implementation will require:

• Collaboration between government agencies and industry stakeholders.
• Extensive training and awareness campaigns for compliance.
• Infrastructure upgrades to support the anticipated growth in manufacturing and operations.

Conclusion: A Flight Towards Progress

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in India’s aviation history. By replacing antiquated laws with a forward-thinking framework, India is charting a course for innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness. As the Act takes flight in 2025, the world will watch closely to see how India’s aviation sector soars to new heights.