Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
With Inputs from Media Release
Dubai, Jan 29: Air India in a press conference has announced the Boeing Dreamliner operation on Dubai/Cochin sector from February 1.
Addressing the press conference, counsel general of India Anurag Bushan said that the year 2016 will be remembered as a turnaround year in the fortunes of India’s aviation industry.
Bushan also highlighted that India's domestic market is on track to surpass 100 million passengers in financial year 2017, and in all likelihood India will overtake Japan this year to become the world’s third largest domestic market behind the USA and China. In reaching this milestone, India will have achieved average domestic traffic growth of over 15% per annum since the liberalisation of the sector commenced in financial year 2004.
It is a fact that India’s domestic traffic was up 21.2% while international grew by a more modest 7.7%. (Source CAPA)
He also spoke about the role of government of India as a key driver of traffic growth in FY 2018,schemes like UDAN for regional connectivity and project of increasing the airports from 75 to 150 airports, which in turn will stimulate demand on regional routes, will be in operation for a period of 10 years, provide air connectivity to unserved and remote routes with airfare being capped at Rs 2,500 for an hour's journey of around 500 km.
The counsel general appreciated the role of Air India in serving the Indian community over and beyond the call of duty, example, evacuation of distressed Indians. He also informed that in UAE Air India continues to provide gratis service for transportation of mortal remains.
Melwin D’Silva, Air India regionaI manager, Gulf, Middle East and Africa thanked the CG for his kind gesture and shared the details of Boeing Dreamliner operations by Air India from Dubai to Cochin and vise versa with effect from February 1.
D’Silva informed that Boeing Dreamliner 787, arguably the most advanced commercial aircraft of our times, offers passengers an unparalleled flying experience.
Some of the most distinguishing features of the B-787 Dreamliner include:
- A twin aisle seat configuration of 18 business class full flat-bed seats and 238 economy class seats
- 60% larger windows which offer a clear outside view from anywhere in the cabin.
- Dimmable windows to regulate light intensity
- Dynamic LED lighting to suit your mood and maintain cabin illumination.
- Lighter weight ensuring greater fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions.
Air India is also offering a free baggage allowance of 40 kgs on economy class and 50kgs on business along with extremely competitive prices for this premium product.
Going forward, Air India also has ambitious plans in terms of acquisition of 100 more aircraft in the next 4 years to expand its operations further.
New flights planned by Air India are as follows:
1. Delhi/Washington wef July 2017 ,
2. Delhi/Copenhagen wef May 2017
3. Kolkata/Bangkok wef May 2017
4. Chandigarh/Bangkok wef May 2017
5. Delhi/Leh second frequency May 2017
6. Delhi/Portblair wef May 2017
7. Delhi/Ahmedabad increase in frequency March 2017
8. Delhi/Nagpur second frequency March 2017