FLY

NASA, SpaceX try again to launch rocket set to bring back stuck astronauts

NASA and SpaceX will attempt a crewed rocket launch on Friday to bring astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams back from the ISS after nine months. A replacement crew, known as Crew-10, will launch from Florida after a delay caused by issues with the rocket's ground systems.

Can diabetics go to Space? Ax-4’s ‘Suite Ride’ study could make it possible

The upcoming Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station (ISS) is set to push boundaries in space science. Among the experiments, a groundbreaking study aims to enable insulin-dependent individuals to travel to space. Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will contribute with research on microgravity’s impact on microorganisms and crop viability. The diverse international crew will also explore bone loss, mental health in space, and 3D-printed materials, making this mission a crucial step towards inclusive and advanced space exploration.

Maldives may be heading for debt default akin to Sri Lanka

Maldives faces potential debt default similar to Sri Lanka, with critical foreign reserves depletion and a substantial debt burden. The government is implementing austerity measures, including taxes on tourism and salary cuts, seeking aid from friendly countries. Immediate concerns include repayments of $600 million in 2025 and $1 billion in 2026, highlighting structural economic vulnerabilities.

AI leading to faster, cheaper oil production, executives say

AI took center stage in many sessions at the world's largest energy gathering. Oil producers are seeking ways to remain profitable in an environment of plummeting oil prices and worries that U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs could slow global energy demand.

Tejas combat jet test fires Astra missile

India's indigenously-built Tejas light combat aircraft successfully test-fired the homegrown air-to-air missile Astra off the coast of Chandipur in Odisha. This achievement showcased the missile's ability to directly hit a flying target with precision, meeting all mission parameters. Developed by DRDO, Astra can engage targets over 100 km and is already part of the Indian Air Force arsenal.

IAF's Surya Kiran aerobatic team performs spectacular air show in Andamans

The Indian Air Force's Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team performed an awe-inspiring air show over Marina Park, Port Blair, featuring loops, barrel rolls, and their signature DNA manoeuvre. The event, led by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi, aimed to inspire the local youth to join the force, attracting a large audience of residents and tourists.

Air India offers Premium Economy tickets at Rs 599 more than Standard Economy fares

Air India has expanded its Premium Economy Class on domestic routes, now offering seats for just Rs 599 more than Standard Economy for a limited time. Available on 39 domestic routes, Premium Economy provides perks like extra legroom, priority check-in, and enhanced dining. The airline will add 30% more Premium Economy seats, totaling over 65,000 weekly.

BJP brought back country's gold mortgaged by UPA: Sambit Patra

Senior BJP leader Sambit Patra stated in the Lok Sabha that BJP government brought back the nation’s gold, which was mortgaged during the Congress-led UPA regime. He highlighted the differences in governance between the two regimes, criticized the UPA's economic policies, and praised the Modi government's efficiency and accountability.

Sakthi Aircraft Industry to make 150 trainer planes in India

A joint venture between Sakthi Group and Diamond Aircraft will produce 150 DA40 NG trainer planes in India, supporting indigenous manufacturing. The deal includes 200 aircraft for Indian Flying Training Organisations, with the first deliveries expected by May 2025. This collaboration aims to train 1,000 pilots annually, boosting India's aviation sector.

Southwest Airlines breaks with another tradition and checked bags will cost you now

Southwest Airlines will start charging for checked bags, ending a key differentiator from rivals. Only upper-tier Rapid Rewards members, business class ticket holders, and airline credit cardholders will get free checked bags. This change is part of broader efforts to boost profits and streamline operations, including job cuts and future assigned seating.

Southwest Airlines set to end free baggage policy, introduce basic economy: Who will pay, how much will it cost?

Southwest Airlines, once known for resisting industry norms, is now embracing revenue-focused strategies, including bag fees and basic economy.

Skip airplane mode: 15 airlines that let you stay connected at 35,000 feet

India will need 30,000 pilots in 15-20 years, says Civil Aviation Minister Naidu

India will need 30,000 pilots in the next 15-20 years due to the expansion of domestic airlines, which have over 1,700 planes on order, according to Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu. Currently, the country has 6,000-7,000 pilots and over 800 planes. The ministry aims to make India a pilot training hub and is evaluating 38 Flying Training Organisations.

Ukraine launches drone attacks targeting Moscow, Russia says

Russian air defense units intercepted and destroyed at least 11 Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, according to the city's mayor. The attacks led to the temporary suspension of flights at Zhukovo and Domodedovo airports to ensure safety. No damage or injuries were reported.

Stock Radar: Flying high! Why could InterGlobe Aviation top Rs 5,000 levels in the next 1-2 months?

InterGlobe Aviation Ltd (Indigo) broke a six-month consolidation phase and has potential to hit fresh record highs. Short-term traders can accumulate the stock on dips with a target of Rs 5,150 in 1-2 months. The stock has shown resilience trading above key moving averages, with a bullish outlook confirmed by key indicators.

Air India probe reveals shocking reason behind lavatory failure on Chicago-Delhi flight

Days after an Air India flight returned to Chicago due to non-functional lavatories, the airline revealed that polythene bags, rags, and clothes blocked the plumbing. Eight out of twelve lavatories became unusable mid-journey, causing significant discomfort to passengers and necessitating a return for safety and comfort reasons.

Holiday in Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu: Here’s all you need to know to plan a vacation there

If, instead of foreign holidays, you prefer to travel within India, here’s a series to help you plan the best vacations in each of the 28 states and 8 Union Territories. We highlight tourist attractions, culinary choices, modes of travel, and the costs involved. In the 29th part of the series, Riju Mehta takes you to the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu.

Air India flight from Chicago to Delhi returns after 10 hours in air as nine out of ten toilets become non-functional

An Air India flight from Chicago to Delhi had to turn back after ten hours due to most of its toilets being non-functional. A Boeing 777-337 ER with over 340 passengers onboard had just one toilet operational. Passengers were accommodated, offered refunds or free rescheduling options upon landing in Chicago.

Man flies drone into North Korea from China: Shocking images spark wild reactions online, did he infiltrate a country?

A daring drone owner flew their device from China into North Korea, capturing rare aerial footage of a North Korean city. The images showed distinctive architecture, empty streets, and curious onlookers. The stunt raised intrigue and concern about the risks of breaching North Korea's borders, highlighting the challenges of peeking behind its strict regime.

Chinese AI firm iFlyTek eyes Europe expansion as US trade war heats up

iFlyTek, with a market capitalisation of 123 billion Chinese yuan ($16.97 billion) based on LSEG data, currently sells in France and Hungary, where it already has an office. It also plans to open an office in Paris this year or next, vice president Vincent Zhan said.

Days after mysterious deaths, Gene Hackman and wife's shared hobby which he couldn’t do while filming

Gene Hackman death reason: Days after the mysterious deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife at their home, actor's hobby has come to light which he couldn't do while filming. Gene was a licensed pilot and loved flying. Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were survived by two dogs, who'd been running loose for at least 10 days before cops came to their mansion.

Air India fires trainer pilot after whistleblower tip-off; grounds 10 pilots as precaution

A whistleblower has exposed critical lapses in a trainer pilot's duties at Air India, leading to his termination. Ten pilots trained by him are temporarily grounded, as Air India prioritizes safety and reports the issue to the DGCA. The airline reinforces its ethical standards under Tata Group oversight.

Tirupati Temple trust seeks 'No-Fly' zone over Tirumala; Aviation Minister responds

Union minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated that authorities are discussing alternate flight routes with air traffic controllers after the Tirupati temple administration requested Tirumala be declared a 'No-Fly' zone. The temple administration emphasized preserving the sanctity of the Sri Venkateswara Temple and addressing security concerns and devotees' sentiments.