Air India's Evolution: New Logo and Livery Embrace Global Future

Air India's Evolution: New Logo and Livery Embrace Global Future

By Author

Published on August 16, 2023

Air India, a venerable name in aviation, has unveiled a fresh identity that marks a significant departure from its past. The airline's rebranding, part of a $400 million initiative, showcases a new logo and livery, shedding the iconic Maharaja mascot to embrace a more global outlook.

The sweeping transformation follows Air India's acquisition by the Tata Group 18 months ago, signaling a rejuvenation effort that encompasses new aircraft acquisitions, expanded destinations, and a bolstered workforce.

The new logo, drawing inspiration from the jharokha architectural style, embodies a "window of possibilities." Golden, red, and purple hues replace the former red swan emblem, breathing new life into the airline's visual identity.

Campbell Wilson, Air India's managing director, emphasized that the Maharaja's legacy isn't fading; rather, it's finding a new home on domestic flights. This strategic shift acknowledges that while the mascot resonates with the Indian diaspora, it may not necessarily connect with international passengers.

Wilson emphasized that the values of the Maharaja—hospitality, warmth, and ethics—will continue to shape the airline's DNA. He stressed that the essence of the Maharaja will be subtly integrated into various aspects of the airline's premium offerings, preserving India's heritage in a sophisticated manner.

The creative director at FutureBrands, Bhumika Shah, explained the rationale behind the shift. The portly, moustachioed mascot, once omnipresent, was deemed more relatable to older generations than younger ones. The revamped approach seeks to infuse the mascot's presence more selectively and elegantly.

The Maharaja's depiction has also undergone a makeover, portraying him as slimmer, younger, and more stylish. The refined imagery will make its debut on the new Airbus A350s set to join the fleet in December.

This transformation extends beyond aesthetics. Air India is investing $400 million to upgrade aircraft interiors, including new seating across all cabins. By March 2024, a third of the airline's wide-body fleet will be rejuvenated, with the complete long-haul fleet set for renewal within the next two-and-a-half years.

The airline's journey toward modernization exemplifies the delicate balance of preserving tradition while embracing a dynamic global vision. Air India's new chapter is set to redefine the skies, blending heritage with innovation and setting the stage for a new era of excellence.


Dubai International Airport Prepares for 3.6 Million Passengers During Back-to-School Travel Peak

Dubai International Airport Prepares for 3.6 Million Passengers During Back-to-School Travel Peak

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 17, 2025

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is preparing for one of the busiest travel periods of the year as families return from summer holidays and students travel for the new academic year. Between 13 and 25 August 2025, DXB is expected to handle over 3.6 million passengers, with daily averages around 280,000. Passenger numbers are forecast to peak on Friday, 15 August, with traffic exceeding 290,000.

This seasonal surge follows a strong first half of 2025 for Dubai’s tourism and aviation sectors. The city welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors, a 6% year-on-year increase, while DXB recorded over 46 million passengers, reaffirming its position as the world’s busiest international airport.

To ensure a smooth experience, Dubai Airports is coordinating with its oneDXB community including airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners to manage crowd flow, expedite passenger processing, and enhance guest services.

Passengers are encouraged to use Smart Gates for passport control if traveling with children aged 12 and above and to keep passports, boarding passes, and visas ready for inspection. DXB offers a variety of amenities, including lounges, dining outlets, retail stores, and duty-free shopping, as well as direct access to the Dubai Metro from Terminals 1 and 3. Alternative transport options such as Uber, Careem, RTA taxis, and car rentals are also available.

Enhanced services are available for People of Determination, including marked accessibility routes, discreet assistance for guests wearing Sunflower Lanyards, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2.

With coordinated efforts across stakeholders, DXB aims to maintain high service quality and ensure passengers enjoy a seamless start or end to their journeys during this busy travel period.


Abu Dhabi Airports Reports 13% Passenger Growth in H1 2025

Abu Dhabi Airports Reports 13% Passenger Growth in H1 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 16, 2025

 Abu Dhabi Airports has reported a 13.1 per cent increase in passenger traffic for the first half of 2025, welcoming 15.8 million travellers across its five-airport network. This growth marks the 17th consecutive quarter of double-digit passenger traffic expansion, reflecting the airport group’s pivotal role in economic growth and global connectivity.

Zayed International Airport (AUH) led the surge, handling 15.5 million passengers, up 13.2 per cent year-on-year. Total aircraft movements across the network reached 133,533, a 9.2 per cent increase, with AUH registering 93,858 movements, up 11.4 per cent.

Route expansion has been central to the growth strategy, with 16 new destinations added in H1 2025. Highlights include China Eastern Airlines’ Shanghai service, Air Seychelles’ six weekly flights, Fly Cham’s Damascus route, and IndiGo’s new connections from Madurai, Bhubaneswar, and Visakhapatnam, strengthening AUH as the airline’s most connected UAE hub.

Cargo volumes also rose 4.8 per cent, reaching 344,795 tonnes, supported by a joint venture with JD Property for a 70,000 sqm advanced logistics facility, catering to growing east-west e-commerce demand.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “The first six months posed operational challenges, yet our results demonstrate the resilience of our network and collaborative partnerships. Delivering positive growth for 17 consecutive quarters reflects our operational agility and commitment to an exceptional aviation experience.”

Other milestones included:

  • Completion of rehabilitation works at Sir Bani Yas Airport

  • AUH receiving the 3 Pearl Estidama rating for construction

  • Recognition as Best Airport at Arrivals Globally at the ACI ASQ Awards for the third consecutive year

  • Collaboration with Bombardier at Al Bateen Executive Airport for a dedicated MRO facility

  • Partnership with TAQA Distribution to explore next-generation utility technologies across airports

With sustained passenger growth, strategic infrastructure projects, and global partnerships, Abu Dhabi Airports continues to strengthen its position as a leading aviation hub, supporting the UAE’s broader economic diversification agenda.


Laguna Lang Co Launches Summer “Stay & Play” Golf & Lifestyle Packages

Laguna Lang Co Launches Summer “Stay & Play” Golf & Lifestyle Packages

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 13, 2025

Laguna Lang Co, Vietnam’s premier integrated resort, is inviting travellers to enjoy the summer with enticing Stay & Play packages that combine world-class golf, luxury accommodation, and exclusive lifestyle experiences.

At the core of these offers is the stunning Sir Nick Faldo Signature golf course, an 18-hole championship layout ranked among Asia’s best. This scenic course winds through jungle-covered mountains, rice paddies, lagoons, and oceanfront dunes, providing a rewarding challenge for golfers of all levels.

image

Guests can choose from two tailored golf holiday packages, available at either Angsana Lang Co or Banyan Tree Lang Co:

  • The 3-night package starts at USD 1,325 at Angsana and USD 2,360 at Banyan Tree. It includes two rounds of golf, spa treatments, daily breakfast, a set dinner, airport transfers, and access to resort activities.

  • The 7-night package begins at USD 4,427 at Angsana and USD 6,825 at Banyan Tree, offering four rounds of golf, five dining experiences, a local discovery tour, and additional indulgences.

Guests at Banyan Tree Lang Co, known for its all-pool-villa accommodations, enjoy extras such as a dedicated villa host, private in-villa check-in, daily afternoon tea, and nightly turndown gifts. Meanwhile, Angsana Lang Co provides stylish rooms, wellness offerings, and family-friendly amenities just steps from the beach.

image

“This is one of the best value luxury golf and lifestyle packages in Asia,” said Gavin Herholdt, Managing Director of Laguna Lang Co. “Whether for a romantic getaway or a group golf trip, our packages offer championship golf, exceptional service, and unforgettable natural beauty.”

image

Herholdt added, “Our integrated resort means guests can enjoy luxury beachfront villas, Faldo-designed golf, award-winning spa and dining, plus Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, all without leaving the property.”

The packages are open for booking now for stays through March 31, 2027, with a minimum of two guests per booking. Availability is subject to seasonal surcharges.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.