Kavya Poornima Balajepalli’s Post

In the intricate web of air travel, where split-second decisions can spell the difference between safety and catastrophe, an incident at Delhi airport jolted the industry's focus back to the indispensable role of human vigilance. Two Vistara flights, each carrying approximately 150 passengers, found themselves on a potentially catastrophic collision course on the runway.  However, it was the remarkable intervention of Captain Sonu Gill, a seasoned pilot with a wealth of experience, that prevented a disaster of epic proportions. Captain Gill was commanding the Ahmedabad-Delhi Vistara flight, which had just touched down at the Delhi airport. As per air traffic control's instructions, her flight was directed to cross an active runway to reach the parking bay. Simultaneously, another Vistara flight, bound for Bagdogra, was granted permission to take off on the very same runway. The two aircraft were a mere 1.8 kilometres apart when Captain Gill's alertness and quick thinking averted the looming catastrophe, showcasing the crucial role of human judgement in the complex aviation environment. This incident underscores that no matter the advancements in technology, the human element remains an irreplaceable component in aviation safety. Gender Diversity and Excellence Amid this heart-stopping incident, a significant narrative thread emerges—the growing presence and achievements of female pilots in India's aviation sector. India proudly boasts the highest number of female pilots globally, signifying a shift in societal perspectives and the breaking of gender-based barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.  Nonetheless, while this achievement is a cause for celebration, it also serves as a reminder that gender diversity alone is not the solution. The focus must remain on competence, training, and the principles of meritocracy.  Captain Gill's ability to avert disaster was not influenced by her gender; rather, it was the result of her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to the safety of her passengers. The accomplishments of female pilots should extend beyond gender acknowledgement and encompass the recognition of their contributions and capabilities that enhance the aviation industry's excellence. This incident underscores the need to nurture talent based on merit and acknowledge the broader benefits of diversity beyond statistics. Read more on our website. #SheThepeople #Pilot #news #vistara

Long Post Alert! Unpleasant experience flying IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd) We (a family comprising a 5-year-old girl and a senior citizen) had a connecting flight from Udaipur to Pune via Hyderabad. When we checked in our luggage at Udaipur, we were told it would be available directly when we landed in Pune. The officer was least bothered about even speaking to us the moment we declined their standard plan. We were told there would be some correspondence - which was immediate, but to just acknowledge that they have received our complaint and we would be getting a call soon. When we received it at Pune airport, it was damaged. This was naturally brought to their officer stationed for queries and without even looking at the bag, or the damage we were blindly offered INR 700 (which seems like their standard practice). We obviously didn't accept it. The bag was just one year old and cost at least 4/5 times more than what was offered. Since we declined their standard package, we were made to wait 15-20 more minutes to fill out a form - and on top of everything, we were treated without any bit of courtesy. We did get a call (if disconnecting within exactly two rings is their definition of trying to reach us) which was impossible to pick (it was exactly two rings) followed by an email asking for an alternate number since they tried reaching out to us and we didn't pick up. The copy of the written complaint had a number to follow up. We called that number - the person sounded disinterested (on Truecaller it showed as "Indigo Pune Arrival") and were asked to send a copy of the complaint through WhatsApp. There has been no response or a call back on this in the last 2 weeks. Several calls have been made again to that number but have gone unanswered. Is this treatment tailored by IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd) for passengers who don't accept their standard package of luggage damage? Requesting Airports Authority of India and Airports Authorit of India Pune Airport to intervene and help resolve this.

Today is National Accessible Air Travel Day, focusing on the need for accessible air travel for people with disabilities. With accessibility called into question for airports and air travel recently, today is a great day to continue the conversations. Some noteworthy developments from 2023 so far: 1. Airlines and airports in Australia have been urged to enhance their treatment of travellers with disabilities, as highlighted by the Disability Royal Commission 2. Accessible Accommodation (The Accessible Group), a leading advocate for accessibility and inclusion, has been campaigning for airlines in Australia to allow wheelchair users to bring their mobility devices onboard flights 3. Delta Air Lines unveiled a "first-of-its kind" prototype aeroplane seat allowing travellers to remain in their own powered wheelchairs on board. #NationalAccessibleAirTravelDay #AccessiblePlanes #AccessibleAirTravel #InclusiveFlying

I recently flew from Bombay to Bengaluru on IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd), I quickly checked in at the Adani Lounge in Mumbai International Airport Limited (CSMIA) and the aviation enthusiasts in me spotted IndiGo airplanes like a lot of them, I recalled my past trips from Bengaluru Pune, and Nagpur even there IndiGo dominated the gates so the curious me started to investigate and here is why the Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo dominates the Indian skies. In 2006, when IndiGo was founded, most Indian airlines were operating in a luxury environment, with Air India dominating the skies, making it difficult for middle-class Indians to afford air travel. IndiGo offered tickets at a reduced price while eliminating all luxuries, and people were fine with it. The average flight duration in India is 2 hours, which is sufficient time for passengers to sit, so IndiGo ensured that the seats and amenities were comfortable for the same duration. As a result, people were able to afford air travel, and with the rise of the middle class and disposable income, IndiGo became a ubiquitous name, while major airlines were unable to compete. Currently, IndiGo is the largest airline in India, with approximately 1,500 daily departures and a fleet of 300 aircraft they control 60% of domestic aviation in India and are expanding international flights to compete with its only major rival, Air India. How does IndiGo keep its prices low? 1 Consistency  The company is the largest buyer of the AirBus A320 family one of the most fuel-efficient planes in the world and a perfect fit for IndiGo’s operations. 2 Similarity  Since all the planes are the same cost of training is reduced as they only have to train people on one set of planes which reduces maintenance and training costs. 3 Staff  One can see IndiGo’s staff being at the gate helping with Check-In the company ensures all of its staff is trained in most of the tasks so that when needed they can step up to help. 4 Always in Air The company makes sure their flights are always flying since IndiGo operates from nearly 71 airports within India the company has daily flights from airports that are even under operation like Bagdora, Aurangabad, Durgapur and Deoghar. 5 EV With the rise in EVs, the company has also shifted and placed massive orders to EV manufacturers for its bus and cargo vehicles fleets at the Airport under the name IndiGOElectric can be spotted. With these measures in place, IndiGo maintains minimal costs and maximum profits. IndiGo also began its international expansion in 2011 when it flew from New Delhi to Dubai for the first time. The company quickly expanded to Southeast Asia. In a recent partnership with Turkish Airlines, IndiGo now flies to over 60 international destinations. With the recent takeover and new owners in Tata Group can Airindia Limited challenge IndiGo to reclaim its dominance, or will IndiGo continue to hold this position? #india #aviation #indigo #airindia #domestictravel

Delta Airlines Takes a Leap Towards Inclusive Travel with Innovative Wheelchair Airplane Seat Design.   Delta Airlines is making significant strides in improving the travel experience for passengers with disabilities, particularly those who rely on wheelchairs. In a ground-breaking move, the airline has teamed up with a design firm to create a revolutionary airplane seat prototype that aims to enhance accessibility and comfort for wheelchair users.   The newly designed seat features a detachable wheelchair that can be securely fastened into the seat itself, eliminating the need for passengers to transfer from their personal wheelchairs to the airplane seats. This innovation allows individuals to remain in their own mobility devices throughout the duration of the flight, ensuring a smoother and more independent travel experience.   Not only does the seat design prioritise accessibility, but it also focuses on providing optimal comfort. Adjustable armrests, leg rests, and a supportive headrest have been incorporated into the design to ensure that passengers can relax and enjoy their journey with ease.   Delta is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all passengers, and to support this initiative, the cabin crew will undergo specialised training to assist passengers with disabilities. This training will help them understand and address the unique needs of wheelchair users, ensuring a seamless and accommodating travel experience.   Recognising the importance of collaboration and feedback, Delta plans to conduct further testing and work closely with disability advocacy groups to refine the seat design. The goal is to implement these innovative wheelchair seats across their aircraft fleet, making air travel more accessible and enjoyable for passengers with disabilities.   This initiative by Delta Airlines marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable travel industry. Prioritising accessibility and comfort, Delta is setting a positive example for other airlines to follow. As the travel industry continues to evolve, it is crucial that airlines embrace the diverse needs of their passengers and work towards providing a truly inclusive experience for all. #innovation #design #work #experience #training #travelindustry #travel #airtravel #airlines #aircraft #airline #collaboration #help #testing #environment #invest