How is BLR Airport Redefining Travel with India’s Largest Vertical Garden, “Tiger Wings”?

In a striking blend of nature, art, and technology, Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has introduced a groundbreaking attraction, “Tiger Wings”—India’s largest vertical garden. This lush green marvel, designed in collaboration with world-renowned botanist Patrick Blanc, redefines the airport experience by seamlessly merging ecology with infrastructure. The installation, situated in the newly developed Terminal 2, represents BLR Airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship, cultural homage, and architectural innovation.

A Masterpiece of Vertical Gardens: What Makes “Tiger Wings” Unique?

A Record-Breaking Botanical Installation

Standing at an impressive 30 feet high and spanning 160 feet across two walls, “Tiger Wings” covers a vast 4,000-square-foot area, making it Blanc’s largest project in India. The design is home to over 15,000 plants representing more than 153 plant species, carefully curated from the forests of Karnataka and the Western Ghats. Blanc, a globally acclaimed botanist affiliated with the French National Centre for Scientific Research, crafted this living wall to embody the airport’s ethos of “Terminal in a Garden”—an endeavor to weave nature directly into the airport’s structure.

An Artistic Ode to India’s Wildlife

Inspired by the national animal, the tiger, Blanc’s design incorporates vibrant red, orange, yellow, and white Ixora flowers, mirroring the tiger’s distinct pattern. Asparagus plants elegantly outline the wings of an airplane, paying homage to the connection between travel and nature. This symbolic artistry imbues the installation with a visual narrative, enhancing its appeal to travelers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Technology Meets Sustainability: The Engineering Behind the Vertical Garden

Hydroponic and Soilless Technology

Employing a soilless, hydroponic system, “Tiger Wings” allows a diverse array of plants to grow vertically. Specialized felt, imported from Germany, forms the base layer, providing structural support and a medium for plant roots to thrive, much like they would on a natural cliff or rock face. Blanc’s use of felt layers ensures a minimal yet precise water supply to each plant, simulating the conditions of their natural habitats and promoting sustainable water use.

Water-Efficient Irrigation System

The installation’s advanced irrigation system optimizes water delivery through felt layers, reducing waste and ensuring that each plant receives the right amount of hydration. This method not only conserves water but also mimics the delicate ecosystem found in nature, where plants flourish with limited resources. This eco-conscious design reduces the airport’s carbon footprint and supports BLR’s sustainability goals.

Voices Behind the Vision: Leaders’ Insights on “Tiger Wings”

Hari Marar, Managing Director & CEO of BIAL

Hari Marar, MD and CEO of Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL), highlights how “Tiger Wings” reflects the four principles anchoring Terminal 2’s design: Terminal in a Garden, technology, art, and sustainability. He explains, “We wanted to bring in a fresh perspective to our vision of sustainability, artistry, and technological advancement in a way that resonates with Bengaluru’s essence. Patrick’s innovative approach to designing living walls was precisely what we envisioned for this space.”

Patrick Blanc, Visionary Botanist

Patrick Blanc’s dedication to blending nature with modern architecture has shaped “Tiger Wings” into a harmonious botanical masterpiece. He describes the project as “the realization of a dream where nature and architecture coexist seamlessly.” Blanc’s approach enables plants to flourish in an environment that mirrors natural cliff faces, bringing a living, breathing ecosystem to travelers’ doorsteps.

Environmental Benefits: Enhancing Air Quality and Cooling the Atmosphere

Beyond its aesthetic value, “Tiger Wings” contributes significantly to the airport environment. By increasing the greenery within Terminal 2, the vertical garden enhances air quality, reduces temperatures, and creates a cooler, more refreshing ambiance. As air flows through the wall, it is purified by the plants, which act as natural filters, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. This contributes to a healthier environment, both within the airport and for the surrounding region.

The Bigger Picture: An Eco-Friendly Travel Hub

“Tiger Wings” is more than just an attraction; it represents BLR Airport’s broader mission of harmonizing nature with infrastructure. The project brings Karnataka’s rich biodiversity to the heart of Bengaluru, celebrating India’s wildlife heritage while presenting a futuristic vision of eco-friendly travel. This blend of natural beauty and sustainable innovation exemplifies how airports worldwide can evolve into green, responsible travel hubs.

Experience the Future of Travel at BLR Airport

Travelers passing through Terminal 2 at Bengaluru’s BLR Airport can now witness a breathtaking green wall that goes beyond mere decoration. “Tiger Wings” is a sensory experience, transforming the airport into a sanctuary of natural beauty. It stands as a testament to how modern infrastructure can celebrate and preserve nature, encouraging a more sustainable future for travel and inspiring airports around the world to follow suit.

In a surprising move, low-cost airline SpiceJet has announced that it will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the financial year ended on March 31 on or before December 31, marking an extension of three months. This decision has raised eyebrows among investors and industry analysts, who are now questioning the reasons behind the delay.

The Extension: What We Know

SpiceJet has obtained an extension of up to three months from the Registrar of Companies under Section 96 of the Companies Act, 2013. This section mandates that companies hold their AGMs within six months from the end of the financial year. However, SpiceJet has managed to secure additional time, pushing the deadline to December 31.

The Ministry's Letter

On August 22, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) sent a letter to SpiceJet, reminding the airline of its obligation to hold the AGM by September 30, as per the requirements of Section 96 of the Companies Act, 2013. Despite this reminder, SpiceJet requested an extension, which was subsequently granted.

What This Means for Investors

The delay in holding the AGM has left investors with more questions than answers. Shareholders are eager to understand the company's financial health, operational performance, and future strategies. The extension could indicate that SpiceJet is working on significant developments or addressing critical issues that will be disclosed at the AGM.

Industry Reactions

Industry analysts are closely monitoring the situation. Some view the delay as a sign of potential challenges within the company, while others see it as a strategic move to ensure a more comprehensive and transparent AGM. The aviation sector is known for its volatility, and SpiceJet's decision to delay the AGM adds another layer of complexity.

Looking Ahead

As the December 31 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on SpiceJet. The airline will need to provide clear and concise explanations for the delay and address any concerns raised by shareholders and industry stakeholders. The AGM will be a critical event for SpiceJet, offering an opportunity to reassure investors and outline a path forward in a challenging market environment.

Jet Airways, one of India’s most prominent airlines before its grounding in 2019, has been battling its way through a complex insolvency resolution process. With the Supreme Court scheduled to pronounce its verdict this Thursday on the ongoing dispute over the airline's ownership, the future of Jet Airways hangs in the balance.

The case involves the State Bank of India (SBI) and other creditors challenging the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) decision to approve the transfer of Jet Airways to the Jalan Kalrock Consortium (JKC). Here’s a deep dive into the case, the challenges at play, and what this decision could mean for the aviation industry and India’s troubled airline sector.

The Legal Battle: SBI vs. JKC

The controversy centers around the resolution plan approved by the NCLAT in March 2023, which transferred Jet Airways' ownership to the Jalan Kalrock Consortium. This decision came after a prolonged insolvency process that began in 2019 when the airline grounded its operations due to a financial crisis.

SBI, Punjab National Bank (PNB), and JC Flowers Asset Reconstruction Private Limited, all major creditors of Jet Airways, have been vocal in their opposition to the resolution plan. The banks argue that the JKC has failed to meet its financial obligations, including the infusion of Rs.350 crore within the stipulated period of 180 days from the effective date, as outlined in the resolution plan. The creditors further claim that the consortium did not fulfill other key commitments, such as paying Rs.150 crore in cash and mortgaging three properties in Dubai, all of which were conditions for the airline’s revival.

On the other hand, the Jalan Kalrock Consortium contends that the lenders are unjustifiably delaying the process and hindering the airline's revival. The consortium argues that the resolution plan was contingent on factors beyond their control, such as security clearances and procedural hurdles, and that they had made all necessary efforts to fulfill their obligations.

The Role of the NCLAT

In its March 2023 decision, the NCLAT upheld the resolution plan and approved the transfer of ownership to the Jalan Kalrock Consortium. The appellate tribunal directed that the transfer of ownership be completed within 90 days and ordered that the Rs.150 crore performance bank guarantee (PBG) provided by the consortium be adjusted against the first tranche payment of Rs.350 crore.

The NCLAT’s decision followed a similar verdict by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) Mumbai in January 2023. The verdict was seen as a significant step forward in the revival of Jet Airways, with the airline eyeing a potential relaunch in 2024.

What’s at Stake?

The stakes are incredibly high for both sides. For the lenders, it’s about ensuring they recover their dues and protect the interests of public and private stakeholders. The banks have voiced concerns over the consortium’s ability to meet the conditions of the resolution plan, especially given Jet Airways’ longstanding financial instability.

For the Jalan Kalrock Consortium, the fight is about taking control of an airline that has been grounded for nearly five years and ensuring its revival. The consortium claims that they have fulfilled their financial commitments and that the delays in the process were due to external factors, not their inability to meet the obligations.

Jet Airways' future rests on the resolution of this dispute. If the Supreme Court rules in favor of the creditors, it could delay or even derail the airline’s revival plans. On the other hand, if the court upholds the NCLAT’s decision, the consortium will likely proceed with taking control of the airline and continuing with its plans to relaunch operations.

Jet Airways’ Revival: A Glimmer of Hope?

Despite the ongoing legal battles, there is still hope for Jet Airways’ revival. The Jalan Kalrock Consortium claims that they have completed a significant infusion of Rs.350 crore, fulfilling their financial commitment as per the court-approved resolution plan. In addition, Jet Airways stated in September 2023 that the consortium had completed an additional Rs.100 crore infusion into the airline.

The revival plan includes plans for Jet Airways to re-enter the aviation market in 2024, a move that could help revitalize the Indian aviation sector, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years. The re-launch would be a significant milestone, not only for the airline but also for the industry, which has been struggling with high operational costs, competition, and a demand for new talent.

The Verdict: What Comes Next?

The Supreme Court’s decision on Thursday will be crucial in determining the future of Jet Airways and its efforts to get back in the air. If the court rules in favor of the Jalan Kalrock Consortium, it could pave the way for a new chapter in Jet Airways’ history. However, if the court sides with the creditors, the airline’s future could be uncertain, with a possible liquidation or further delays to the revival process.

While the legal battle continues, one thing is certain—Jet Airways’ journey is far from over. Whether it takes off again as a new player in the aviation sector or faces a more uncertain future depends largely on the outcome of this critical court decision.

Conclusion

Jet Airways’ long-awaited return to the skies hinges on a critical Supreme Court verdict. As the legal battle continues, both creditors and the Jalan Kalrock Consortium are fighting for what they believe is right for the airline and the industry. The outcome of the case will have far-reaching consequences for Jet Airways, its stakeholders, and the future of India’s aviation market. The coming days will reveal if Jet Airways can reclaim its place in the Indian aviation sector or if it will face another setback.

Akasa Air, India’s newest budget airline, continues to push boundaries and expand its reach, despite significant financial challenges. The airline, backed by the late stock market mogul Rakesh Jhunjhunwala under SNV Aviation, recently released its first full-year financial results, revealing a notable increase in revenue and a doubling of its net losses. In this article, we dive into the factors behind Akasa Air’s financial trajectory, focusing on its rapid expansion, operational strategy, and future prospects.

Rising Losses but Expanding Horizons

In FY24, Akasa Air reported a substantial net loss of Rs.1,670 crore, up from Rs.744.5 crore in the previous fiscal year. Despite this increase in losses, the airline achieved an impressive revenue growth of over four times, reaching Rs.3,069.58 crore compared to Rs.698.67 crore in FY23. This rapid rise in revenue reflects the airline’s ambitious expansion strategy, marking its first full fiscal year since launching operations in August 2022.

Revenue Gains Outpaced by Soaring Expenses

While Akasa Air has shown robust revenue growth, the costs associated with scaling up its network have been significant. Total expenses in FY24 surged to Rs.4,814.4 crore, more than triple the previous year's Rs.1,522 crore. The steep increase in expenses was primarily driven by fleet expansion, brand-building initiatives, and substantial hiring efforts.

In an effort to expand its workforce, the airline onboarded approximately 1,400 new employees, bringing its total staff strength to 3,800. Employee benefit costs surged from Rs.232.4 crore to Rs.774.9 crore, underscoring the airline’s commitment to establishing a strong talent pool for long-term growth.

Increased Financial Obligations Impacting Profitability

Higher aircraft lease obligations and interest expenses also contributed significantly to the airline’s losses. Interest and other finance costs nearly tripled, reaching Rs.406.1 crore from Rs.141.18 crore in the previous year. According to Akasa Air’s Chief Financial Officer Ankur Goel, these rising costs are tied to lease obligations and accounting standards that impact the airline’s balance sheet.

Strategic Growth with Revenue per Available Seat Kilometer (RASK) Gains

Akasa Air's Chief Financial Officer, Ankur Goel, noted that the airline’s capacity tripled in FY24, driving a 10% increase in Revenue per Available Seat Kilometer (RASK), an essential metric for measuring an airline’s revenue performance. He expressed confidence that RASK would continue to grow annually, bolstered by increased internal capabilities, stronger brand presence, and higher airport visibility.

Goel outlined ambitious plans to boost Akasa Air’s fleet capacity by 50-55% in FY25, anticipating a corresponding 50% increase in revenue. This fleet expansion is integral to the airline’s growth strategy, aiming to capture a larger market share in India’s dynamic aviation sector.

Maintaining Liquidity and Future Outlook

The airline’s management remains optimistic about Akasa Air’s future, emphasizing their focus on liquidity and strategic investments. In its annual report, Akasa Air’s leadership team expressed confidence that it would continue meeting liabilities, maintaining asset value, and fulfilling financial commitments as per the projections.

Although losses have surged, the airline’s proactive investments in fleet, workforce, and brand-building initiatives are aimed at setting a strong foundation for sustainable growth. The management’s emphasis on long-term stability indicates that Akasa Air is ready to navigate these turbulent financial phases while remaining focused on capturing opportunities in the rapidly evolving Indian aviation landscape.

Conclusion

Akasa Air’s journey through FY24 reflects both the challenges and the potential of a rapidly expanding airline in a competitive market. While losses have doubled due to increased spending, the airline’s solid revenue growth, strategic investments, and long-term vision suggest a promising future. As Akasa Air continues to expand its fleet and workforce, the airline's leadership believes it is on track to achieve financial stability, positioning itself as a key player in India’s aviation sector. For now, Akasa Air’s ascent is an exciting story of growth, resilience, and determination—poised to navigate the skies of India’s aviation industry with eyes set on success.

With Inputs from The Economic Times

In an unexpected turn of events, Italy’s Treasury has temporarily halted the sale of a minority stake in ITA Airways to Lufthansa due to a pricing disagreement. The deal, which would give Lufthansa a significant foothold in southern Europe, is now at a standstill as both parties try to resolve the valuation dispute. Here’s what you need to know.

The Dispute Over Price

Italy’s Treasury had planned to sell a 41% stake in ITA Airways, the successor to the bankrupt Alitalia, to Lufthansa for 325 million euros (approximately $354 million). This transaction, however, hit a roadblock when the Treasury decided it would not "undersell" the national airline, according to a source close to the matter. The Italian economy ministry and Lufthansa are reportedly debating a 10-million-euro discrepancy in the sale price.

A second source indicated that the final price might be influenced by a future deal for a second stake sale, expected to take place in a few years. Both sources have chosen to remain anonymous, given that they aren’t authorized to publicly discuss these negotiations.

Why Italy Wants to Hold Its Ground

For Italy, the sale of ITA Airways is not merely a business transaction; it represents a significant strategic move in the aviation sector. ITA Airways, a state-owned entity, was established to revitalize Italy’s national carrier after Alitalia's collapse. With Lufthansa poised to enter the Italian market, Italy’s Treasury appears intent on securing what it sees as a fair price, determined to prevent what it perceives as an “underselling” of its national airline.

The Italian economy ministry's stance reflects broader national concerns about maintaining control and influence over a vital transport asset. Selling a portion of ITA to Lufthansa offers potential growth opportunities, but Italy wants to ensure its interests are preserved, especially if future expansion of Lufthansa’s stake is on the table.

Lufthansa’s Antitrust Concessions

As part of the agreement, Lufthansa pledged concessions to receive antitrust approval from the European Union. These concessions included offering flight slots to competitors, ensuring that competition in the Italian market would not be hindered. According to a Lufthansa spokesperson, the company is committed to following through with these terms.

However, the document outlining these antitrust remedies, due for submission to the European Commission on Monday, was reportedly delayed because of the pricing dispute. Without this essential step, regulatory approval remains uncertain, further complicating the deal.

What’s Next? A Timeline in Limbo

The halt on the sale has created a significant delay in Lufthansa’s plans to expand its reach in southern Europe. This strategic acquisition would have given Lufthansa a competitive advantage in a high-demand region, connecting northern and southern Europe through its vast network. Yet, with the Treasury unwilling to compromise on price, the process could take longer than anticipated.

The timeline for the next phase is equally uncertain. If Italy’s Treasury and Lufthansa can bridge the 10-million-euro gap, the sale might proceed as planned. However, this delay means that Lufthansa’s strategic objectives are on hold, leaving both the German airline and Italian stakeholders in a state of limbo.

Market Implications: Who Benefits from the Delay?

As discussions linger, competitors are eyeing the southern European market. With Lufthansa’s anticipated acquisition on pause, other airlines may seize the opportunity to expand their operations in the region. Italy’s decision to pause the deal may benefit competing carriers, while Lufthansa faces increasing pressure to resolve the dispute swiftly to avoid further regulatory or market complications.

Final Thoughts

Italy’s decision to hold off on the ITA Airways sale underscores a broader question of national interest and valuation. With the Treasury standing firm on its price expectations, Lufthansa may be forced to adjust its approach or risk missing out on a prime opportunity in Europe’s lucrative south.

For now, all eyes are on both the Italian Treasury and Lufthansa. Will they come to an agreement that aligns national interests with corporate ambitions?

With Inputs from Reuters

As regional connectivity in India continues to see strong demand, Star Air, the aviation division of the Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG), is making headlines with its ambitious fleet expansion strategy. With the goal of serving more of India’s underserved cities, the airline aims to grow its fleet to 25 aircraft over the next 36 months, a move expected to transform air travel accessibility for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across the country.

A Bold Expansion Plan for Regional Connectivity

Star Air's expansion involves adding two new Embraer E175 aircraft by the end of the current fiscal year (FY25), followed by four more in FY26. This will bolster the airline’s existing fleet of nine aircraft, which includes four E175s and five Embraer E145s. By expanding its fleet, Star Air is reaffirming its commitment to the Government of India’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) initiative, aimed at democratizing air travel for smaller cities and towns. Through this strategic investment, Star Air aspires to connect even more parts of “Real India” with cost-effective and comfortable air travel options.

Aligning with India’s Vision of UDAN

Star Air’s fleet expansion reflects the company’s dedication to the UDAN scheme, which has sought to connect India’s underserved regions to mainstream cities. These new E175s will allow Star Air to increase deployed capacity and improve efficiency on both existing and future routes. As Capt. Simran S Tiwana, CEO of Star Air, highlights, “The addition of these new Embraer E175 aircraft marks a pivotal step in our journey. As we expand our fleet to 25 aircraft, we reaffirm our commitment to reaching more underserved markets and setting new standards in air travel.”

By connecting more Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, Star Air is helping to transform the travel landscape, enabling faster and more affordable air travel for regions that have historically lacked access to quality air transportation options.

Why the E175? Fuel Efficiency and Passenger Comfort

The Embraer E175 is known for its superior fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, and enhanced passenger comfort, all factors that align well with Star Air’s goals of expanding affordable, high-quality air travel. As these new E175s join the fleet, passengers can look forward to smoother flights with lower carbon footprints, aligning with global trends toward sustainability in aviation.

The E175’s size and design make it ideal for regional routes, allowing Star Air to scale operations cost-effectively while ensuring a comfortable and reliable travel experience.

From 1.3 Million Passengers to New Heights: Star Air’s Track Record and Future Prospects

Since its inception in 2019, Star Air has built a solid reputation by flying over 1.3 million passengers across 22 destinations, particularly in states such as Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The airline’s commitment to affordability and reliability has enabled it to meet the needs of passengers who might otherwise be limited to lengthy train journeys or unaffordable flights.

With its goal of reaching a 25-aircraft fleet within the next three years, Star Air is preparing to accommodate an even larger passenger base. As more people seek to travel between India’s smaller cities, Star Air’s expanded fleet will be poised to meet this growing demand, while setting new standards in comfort, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in regional air travel.

Connecting the Future: A Roadmap for Regional Air Travel in India

Star Air’s plan to expand its fleet is a major step toward creating a more connected, accessible India. By adding advanced aircraft and refining its network to include more underserved routes, the airline is establishing itself as a leading force in India’s aviation sector. This growth is not just about increasing numbers but about creating lasting connections, bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, and supporting India’s regional economic growth.

With Star Air’s fleet expansion, travelers from across India can look forward to more routes, more comfort, and more efficient journeys. As the airline continues to set new standards, it’s clear that Star Air’s commitment to “Connecting Real India” will only grow stronger, making air travel an accessible reality for more Indians than ever before.