IndiGo's Flight Pause and New Horizons: Navigating the Skies in 2024

IndiGo's Flight Pause and New Horizons: Navigating the Skies in 2024

By Author

Published on January 1, 2024

IndiGo, India's premier airline, is experiencing a dynamic phase, facing temporary setbacks while boldly expanding its network. The airline recently announced the suspension of its Kanpur-Bengaluru flights for three months, starting January 1, 2024, due to engine-related technical issues affecting a significant portion of its fleet.

This move has sparked concerns, particularly within Kanpur's business community. Mayank Khanna, Vice President of the Merchant Chamber of Commerce, sought clarifications from IndiGo's headquarters, learning that approximately 30 aircraft are already grounded due to technical problems, with an additional 30-40 planes expected to follow suit in the first quarter of 2024 as per directives from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

While this suspension impacts over 30 flights across the country, IndiGo remains optimistic. Pending DGCA's approval, the airline aims to reinstate all canceled or postponed flights from April onwards. In the interim, IndiGo is actively exploring options, including leasing additional aircraft, to mitigate the disruption caused by the grounding.

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In a contrasting move highlighting the airline's resilience, IndiGo is unveiling new routes, reinforcing its commitment to enhanced connectivity. Direct flights connecting Mumbai with Ayodhya are set to commence from January 15, 2024, with daily operations. Additionally, services from Delhi to Ayodhya (starting December 30, 2023) and from Ahmedabad to Ayodhya (beginning January 11, 2024) are on the horizon. These announcements align with the inauguration of the Ayodhya airport on December 30, reflecting IndiGo's strategic expansion.

The aviation industry is witnessing the ebb and flow of challenges and opportunities, and IndiGo epitomizes this dynamic nature. As it addresses technical setbacks, the airline is simultaneously charting new skies, underlining its commitment to providing seamless connectivity and responding to the evolving needs of travelers.

IndiGo, India's leading airline, has taken a proactive step by temporarily suspending its Kanpur-Bengaluru flights for three months, effective January 1, 2024. This decision stems from engine-related technical issues affecting a substantial portion of the airline's fleet.

Mayank Khanna, VP of the Merchant Chamber of Commerce, sought clarity on behalf of Kanpur's residents, learning that around 30 aircraft are currently grounded due to these issues. An additional 30-40 planes are anticipated to be grounded in the first quarter of 2024 as per DGCA directives. This has prompted concerns, especially within Kanpur's business community.

Despite the challenges, IndiGo is optimistic about the future. Pending DGCA's approval, the airline plans to resume all affected flights from April onwards. In the interim, IndiGo is actively exploring solutions, including leasing additional aircraft, to navigate through this temporary setback.

Amidst the temporary pause, IndiGo is embarking on a journey of expansion, introducing new routes to enhance connectivity. The airline is set to launch direct flights connecting Mumbai with Ayodhya from January 15, 2024, providing daily services on this route. Additionally, services from Delhi to Ayodhya (starting December 30, 2023) and from Ahmedabad to Ayodhya (beginning January 11, 2024) are in the pipeline.

These strategic announcements coincide with the inauguration of the Ayodhya airport on December 30, symbolizing IndiGo's commitment to fostering enhanced connectivity. The airline's proactive approach in navigating challenges while simultaneously expanding its network reflects the dynamic nature of the aviation industry.

IndiGo continues to stand as a testament to resilience and adaptability, ensuring that disruptions are met with strategic solutions, and opportunities are seized for the benefit of travelers and the aviation landscape.


Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 18, 2025

What do the moon and manta rays have in common? They both play a crucial role in one of the ocean’s most breathtaking natural spectacles—the mass gathering of manta rays in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Thanks to the groundbreaking research of the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme, based at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, travelers now have a scientifically backed chance to witness these gentle giants in action. The team has combined two decades of manta tracking, moon phase analysis, and tidal movements to predict the Manta Hot Dates for 2025—the optimal times when these marine marvels are expected to congregate in vast numbers.

2025 Manta Hot Dates

  • May 10 – 14 | May 25 – 29
  • June 9 – 13 | June 23 – 27
  • July 8 – 12 | July 22 – 26
  • August 7 – 11 | August 21 – 25
  • September 5 – 9 | September 19 – 23
  • October 5 – 9 | October 19 – 23
  • November 3 – 7 | November 18

A Front-Row Seat to the Ocean’s Grand Performance

With over 4,477 manta sightings recorded in 2024—alongside 26 whale sharks and nine devil rays—the waters around Landaa Giraavaru offer an unparalleled marine adventure. Guests visiting during the Manta Hot Dates can join the exclusive Manta Watch experience, which includes:

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Manta-on-Call speedboat safari – Get alerted via a personal phone the moment mantas are sighted nearby.
Dolphin cruise – Witness playful dolphins leaping across the Indian Ocean.
Coral frame propagation – Contribute to marine conservation by helping restore coral reefs.
Round-trip shared seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport.
Daily breakfast at Café Landaa or Blu Restaurant.

For those who prefer spontaneity, the resort’s Manta-on-Call program offers a real-time adventure—guests receive a direct call the moment manta rays are spotted, allowing them to rush to a speedboat and snorkel with these oceanic giants on their terms.

More Than a Spectacle—A Conservation Mission

Since its inception in 2005, the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme has played a vital role in protecting manta rays worldwide. Project Manager Elspeth Strike explains,

“Seeing a guest’s face light up as they spot a manta for the first time is unforgettable. At Landaa Giraavaru, we combine conservation with education—offering managed experiences that allow people to connect with these incredible creatures while helping ensure their future.”

Manta sightings are seasonal and subject to weather conditions and the moods of these gentle giants.

To book your Manta Watch adventure at Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, click here, email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com, or call +960 66 00 888.


Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 16, 2025

The Business Travel Show Asia Pacific is set to make its debut in Singapore on April 16-17, 2025, at Marina Bay Sands, uniting over 200 corporate travel buyers from across Asia Pacific, the US, the UK, and Europe with 50+ top-tier exhibitors from the global travel industry. Backed by BTN Group’s 30 years of expertise in corporate travel events, this launch marks a significant milestone for the region’s booming business travel sector.

A World-Class Corporate Travel Event

The Asia Pacific region is the world’s fastest-growing corporate travel market, with spending projected to hit $900 billion this year. Business Travel Show APAC is more than just a trade show—it’s a critical platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and stay ahead in an evolving landscape.

Exhibitors include some of the most influential names in the travel industry, such as Oneworld, Wings, Wego, Amex GBT, BCD, Amex Card, Emburse, and more. The event promises meaningful business meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and exclusive networking opportunities for buyers and suppliers alike.

Exclusive Hosted Buyer Programme

Senior corporate travel decision-makers can apply for the hosted buyer programme, which includes:

  • Complimentary travel and accommodation
  • Curated one-on-one meetings with key suppliers
  • VIP access to event sessions and networking lounges

Corporate travel managers and procurement professionals handling business travel programmes are encouraged to register early to secure their spot.

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Expert Panels & Cutting-Edge Industry Insights

Spanning two days, the event features 16 free-to-attend sessions covering:

  • Sustainability in corporate travel
  • Enhancing traveller experience
  • Innovative travel technology
  • Supplier sourcing strategies
  • Cost-cutting and resilience in travel programmes

Speakers from Avis Budget Group, MSD International, IKEA, Rheinmetall, Crisis24, HN Consulting, and Align Tech will share their expertise.

Business Travel Innovation Faceoff & APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award

For the first time in APAC, the Business Travel Innovation Faceoff will showcase game-changing solutions set to redefine corporate travel. Additionally, the APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award will honor a regional leader in corporate travel innovation.


CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

By Author

Published on March 10, 2025

CGH Earth Saha has launched its ninth villa, Coorg Wild Walk, adjacent to Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. Nestled within a lush coffee estate near Kutta’s Nanachi Gate, this secluded four-bedroom villa offers travelers an intimate and immersive experience in one of India’s most pristine wildlife reserves, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and a thriving bird population.

Designed as a peaceful retreat, the villa blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Expansive picture windows frame uninterrupted views of the coffee plantation and forest, while the semi-open lounge and dining areas allow guests to stay connected to nature. Infused with Kodava craftsmanship, the interiors add a touch of local charm to the space. Guests can book individual rooms or reserve the entire villa for a private escape.

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The experience at Coorg Wild Walk extends beyond the villa. Guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and safaris in Nagarhole offer thrilling encounters with wildlife. The on-site culinary offerings celebrate the flavors of Kodagu and Karnataka, with locally sourced ingredients shaping an authentic dining experience.

"We are thrilled to welcome guests to Coorg Wild Walk. Nestled within a coffee plantation and just minutes from the Nanachi Gate of Nagarhole National Park, this retreat offers an unmatched connection with nature. Whether it's waking up to bird calls, sipping estate-grown coffee on the verandah, or embarking on curated wildlife experiences, the thrill of the forest is ever-present," said George Joseph, Vice President, Operations – CGH Earth.

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With a strong focus on sustainability and cultural authenticity, CGH Earth Saha continues its legacy of crafting meaningful travel experiences. Coorg Wild Walk promises a unique blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal getaway for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.

More details at CGH Earth Saha

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