by admin | Sep 13, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, aviation, business, flying
Ryanair intends to boost incentives for workers who identify travelers carrying large suitcases.
It follows that it was
Staff at the low-cost carrier have been found to earn as much as €80 (£68.98) per month solely through implementing the stringent regulations.
Currently, this limit is scheduled to be removed, with additional modifications underway.
The Ryanair CEO, Michael O’Leary, stated that he has “no apologies” for identifying individuals who are “cheating the system.”
He declared during a news briefing in the center
London
that he intends to increase rewards for airport personnel who stop travelers from carrying large bags aboard.
Bonuses are expected to rise from €1.50 (£1.29) to €2.50 (£2.16) per bag starting in November.
Travelers flying with Ryanair must adhere to stringent baggage policies, resulting in charges as high as £75 when an extra-large suitcase is taken to the check-in counter.
Just a single tiny bag that fits beneath the forward-facing seat is part of the cheapest ticket options.
Mr. O’Leary stated, “I have absolutely no regrets about it at all.”
I desire for our ground operations staff to identify individuals exploiting the system.
He said: “I’m still puzzled by how many people carrying backpacks believe they can pass through the gate without us noticing their bags.”
We will, and you’ll have to pay for the backpack. You won’t be coming along unless it fits.
The head of Ryanair stated that approximately 200,000 travelers annually face baggage charges when they reach the airport terminals.
He stated, “We still have much work ahead to eliminate them.”
The low-cost carrier transported 200 million travelers during the fiscal period ending in March.
Mr. O’Leary added, “We expect everyone to follow the guidelines. If you adhere to the regulations, there will be no problems.”
We operate a highly effective, budget-friendly, and cost-efficient airline, and we aren’t allowing anyone to interfere.
It followed an income statement that was disclosed early this year, showing how a previous worker received a “bag fee reward” for pointing out luggage that exceeded the airline’s well-known strict dimensions.
A former employee stated that they kept approximately €1.50 (£1.30) for each large bag they documented, as reported by the Sunday Times, though they mentioned the monthly incentive had a limit.
Ryanair, which generated an impressive €13 billion in sales during the previous year, has stated that employees receive financial incentives for identifying luggage that violates regulations — resulting in travelers being billed as much as €75 per large bag discovered at the boarding area.
At that moment, a Ryanair representative stated: “We provide commissions to our agents who detect and bill for large luggage items, however, these charges apply to fewer than 0.1 percent of travelers who fail to follow our established baggage regulations.”
Our communication to the 0.1 percent of travelers is straightforward: kindly follow our flexible baggage policies, or face fees when checking in or at the boarding area.
For the 99.9% of our travelers who follow our regulations, we express gratitude and encourage them to continue flying without concern.
Ryanair has recently stated that it will expand the dimensions of complimentary cabin baggage to 40 x 30 x 20cm – aligning with new European Union regulations that prohibit carriers from imposing fees on compact personal items.
Read more
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Which led to strong responses when Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary increased rewards for employees who identify large luggage items?
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Is Ryanair’s rigid luggage policy causing travelers to incur excessive charges for small objects?
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Is Ryanair considering expanding free luggage allowances, or is the present strict policy on large items merely an aggressive strategy to boost income?
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Is Ryanair offering incentives for employees to catch passengers bringing large luggage onto planes?
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Ryanair’s new baggage policy: What effect will the 20% larger free suitcase have on passengers who feel singled out and upset about unexpected charges?
by admin | Sep 1, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, aviation, flying, Travel
-
Alpine Elements travel specialists highlighted a problem that frustrates flight attendants greatly
An aviation specialist has disclosed a typical action taken by passengers inside aircraft restrooms that leads to extra hassle for other travelers and flight attendants.
As reported by seasoned cabin crew members, who requested confidentiality, travelers often neglect to secure the restroom door—either when they’re inside or following their use of it.
“A senior flight attendant mentioned that passengers often fail to recognize the effect of their behavior in such an enclosed area,” said the.
Mirror
.
One habit we frequently encounter — which really annoys us — is keeping the bathroom door open while using it.
Even though the matter might appear trivial, it can lead to ongoing issues aboard, like travelers knocking without reason or trying to enter believing the restroom is available.
If the door is not securely closed during usage, it may lead to uncomfortable and humiliating situations.
Another frequent source of irritation for cabin crew and travelers is the incorrect use of the “occupied” indicator.
Should the lock not be completely activated, the signal might remain unchanged, causing uncertainty regarding the availability of the restroom.
Besides issues related to privacy, crew members mentioned that staying alert about restroom usage is important for safety and cleanliness purposes.
If a door remains unsecured or not properly closed, it might be difficult to determine if the area has been sanitized or is ready for occupancy.
Additionally, during emergencies, flight attendants should be aware of available resources.
A team member stated, “It’s humiliating for all concerned and leads to unnecessary delays, particularly when there’s a line during peak hours.”
Travel experts at
Alpine Elements
also emphasized additional behaviors that may annoy flight attendants and interfere with onboard services.
First, overuse of water is an issue since the plane has a restricted water reserve, making it unsuitable to let faucets remain open for extended periods.
One alternative is disposing of objects that may block airplane lavatory systems, like paper towels, moist wipes, and feminine hygiene products, which ought to go into the waste container.
A third concern involves prolonged time spent in the restroom, particularly for unnecessary reasons, which may result in lines and discomfort when traffic is high.
Travelers are encouraged to observe fundamental manners, including making sure the door is securely closed to indicate presence, refraining from using the restroom during busy hours, keeping water use brief, and disposing of trash in the designated bin rather than the toilet.
Meanwhile, a
A flight attendant has revealed the lesser-known spot where aircrew rest during extended flights
– and social media users have been deeply amazed.
Charlie Silver, employed as flight attendants with TUI, offered audiences an inside view of the comfortable sleeping areas through a recent TikTok post on her profile, @silvercharlie.
In the video titled “Sleeping at 40,000ft in the sky,” a flight attendant based in the UK shared details about how cabin staff can rest in specially designed sleeping pods situated above the main passenger area.
Read more
by admin | Sep 1, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, aviation, international travel, world
Istanbul, Turkey, has been named the top preferred international airport globally for this year, surpassing Singapore Changi, according to 657,000 votes from readers of the U.S.-based publication Travel+Leisure.
Istanbul Airport achieved a rating of 98.57 out of 100 in this year’s World’s Best Awards poll, which evaluated airports according to factors including accessibility, check-in and security procedures, dining options, retail spaces, and architectural style.
A passenger praised the airport’s “bright and open layout. Clear directions.”
One individual stated, “It represents a client-focused, dependable, and thriving air travel facility. I would describe it as the top airport globally.”
A variety of cafés and restaurants can be found at Istanbul Airport, serving dishes from both Turkish and international cuisines.
Bakery shops, pastry stores, cafes, well-known coffee outlets, quick-service eateries, and self-serve dining areas offer a variety of flavors for travelers.
Qatar’s Hamad International Airport ranked third, with Zayed International Airport and Dubai International Airport from the United Arab Emirates coming next.
The remaining entries in the top 10 included Hong Kong International Airport (China), Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (Finland), Haneda Tokyo Airport (Japan), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (India), and Incheon International Airport located in South Korea.
In the previous year, visitors to the American publication Condé Nast Traveler also selected Istanbul Airport as the top airport globally during the yearly Readers’ Choice Awards, outperforming Changi.
by admin | Aug 24, 2025 | aviation, cars, flying, technology, technology trends
August 19, Nepal – Excitement is growing across social media platforms and emerging websites in Nepal, where anticipation builds around the upcoming NADA Auto Show 2025 in Kathmandu. The event is set to feature a flying vehicle, officially referred to as an eVTOL (Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. This groundbreaking innovation, part of the broader concept called Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), represents a major leap toward next-generation transport solutions. Such advancements appear crucial for Nepal due to its challenging terrain.
Exhibition and execution are quite different things. The opportunities it unlocks are exciting, while the path to operation is challenging. Meanwhile, a nuanced understanding of this novel technology, its developmental impacts and potential implementation challenges may turn expectations into reality.
Global landscape
AAM signifies a remarkable shift in aviation technology, with the potential to revolutionise the aviation sector. It can operate at lower altitude and shorter range, requires minimal infrastructure and maintenance, making it well-positioned to deliver cleaner, safer, quieter, flexible and cost-effective transport solutions compared to conventional means.
More than 267 cities and areas spanning 63 nations are either implementing or testing AAM programs. Commercial deployments are anticipated in countries including the United States, China, South Korea, France, Japan, and Saudi Arabia by 2026.
A wide variety of eVTOL aircraft types have already been developed. Alongside the setting up of vital infrastructures, such as vertiports, is also gaining pace. As of February 2025, 1,504 vertiports are planned globally, a sharp rise from 1,004 in September 2024, with China accounting for over 50 percent of all projects.
Leading aviation authorities of the world released a joint AAM roadmap in June 2025 to guide certification, coordination, regulation and social acceptance of air taxis and drone operations. South Korean company OPPAV’s manned-unmanned eVTOL ran a successful flight test in 2023 and Chinese Ehang’s EH216-S received certification for passenger use. This underscores the global momentum towards pilotless air mobility. Market forecasts also highlight substantial growth potential for AAM. The global AAM market was valued at USD 11.5 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 73.5 billion by 2034.
Through regulated sandbox settings for trial flights and collaborations between private entities and government bodies involving leading eVTOL companies, world governments are backing advancements in Advanced Air Mobility. The bold NEOM urban development initiative in Saudi Arabia and Dubai’s preparedness through approved vertical takeoff and landing sites highlight the promise of this emerging technology.
Transformative potential
Connectivity in Nepal is severely hampered by its rugged and disaster-prone terrain. Dispersed rural settlements and unreliable transport infrastructures exacerbate the situation. Roads are often hard to build and maintain due to harsh topography and frequent disasters. Air travel remains crucial while affected by limited infrastructures, topography and weather constraints.
AAM offers a game-changing solution to the country’s transportation problems. It is an agile and environmentally friendly option that can bypass damaged or non-existent roads and operate in previously unreachable areas. It can improve healthcare, reducing fatalities via rapid deployment of medical supplies and personnel, including emergency medical evacuations.
The novel technology accelerates economic activities and growth, offering market access to local producers and farmers producing goods that often struggle to reach the market. It also supports tourism by establishing connectivity with previously isolated tourist attractions.
AAM can aid in disaster readiness and swift action through the rapid delivery of necessary supplies during emergencies. Aerial monitoring, real-time mapping, and fire-fighting abilities also improve efficient disaster management, reducing possible damages.
AAM vehicles produce zero emissions and operate more quietly, providing ecological benefits. In contrast to many nations that continue using harmful energy sources for power production, Nepal can utilize its rich hydropower resources to charge eVTOLs.
Apart from the transport revolution, AAM offers a platform for innovation and skills development. The youth population of Nepal makes it well-positioned to develop human capital in terms of AAM pilots, technicians and drone engineers.
Therefore, AAM presents groundbreaking possibilities for Nepal to surmount geographic challenges, enhance economic stability, and promote various Sustainable Development Goals.
Challenges to AAM adoption
Despite the promising prospects, the successful adoption of AAM in Nepal seems challenging. The absence of a legal and institutional framework, robust airspace management provisions and safety protocols, including pilot licensing for operating eVTOLs and autonomous aircraft, could hinder timely adoption.
Nepal might encounter difficulties when using eVTOLs at elevated altitudes to address its remote area accessibility requirements, since the majority of commercially available eVTOLs are built for use in city environments at lower elevations. In addition, factors like climate conditions and weather variations can influence both battery performance and lifting capability. Moreover, the restricted range and carrying capacity of present-day models could limit their effectiveness for extended or more demanding journeys across Nepal’s tough terrain.
The absence of essentials such as vertiports, reliable 5G connectivity, dedicated charging stations and robust electric grids, especially in rural and remote areas, could further delay the implementation and operation.
A lack of specialized knowledge and skilled personnel in AAM technologies poses a challenge for effective implementation. Developing local proficiency in cutting-edge aerospace technology, upkeep, and compliance matters will demand significant funding for learning and development programs.
In addition, as a relatively new technology, the initial expenses involved in acquiring airplanes, such as building facilities and educating staff, are anticipated to be substantial. This may influence financial choices and the ability of a nation with limited resources, like Nepal, to commit.
Limited public understanding of this new technology could lead to skepticism and hesitation in using air transportation services, whereas increasing knowledge will demand further financial resources.
What can Nepal do?
Given Nepal’s technical, financial and human resource constraints in the field of modern aviation, an incremental approach with extensive international collaboration is required to harness the full potential of AAM.
To ensure secure and effective implementation, it is essential to establish a specialized team within the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), working alongside major sectoral departments to achieve coordinated efforts across different areas. A National AAM Strategy can outline an explicit schedule and arrange required resources. Utilizing existing reference documents such as the Asia-Pacific AAM Framework may aid in shaping regulations and oversight.
Global cooperation and involvement from the private sector are essential for unlocking the capabilities of AAM. Engaging regionally and globally with those who have adopted or pioneered AAM can drive progress. Collaborating with the private sector through tax benefits and legal frameworks may support technological innovation aligned with Nepal’s needs.
The government should focus on the implementation of pilot projects in collaboration between CAAN, Nepal Army, academic institutions and the private sector with regulatory sandboxes to ease testing in early stages. For initial deployment, we could prioritise medical logistics, disaster response.
To ensure preparedness of infrastructure, it is essential to design and fund vertiport facilities along with specialized charging points in key areas. Moreover, prompt funding of education initiatives for the required labor force is crucial for smooth implementation.
The anticipated display of eVTOL represents Nepal’s fascination with advanced transportation solutions, yet underscores the difference between ambition and preparedness.
by admin | Aug 19, 2025 | airline industry, aviation, business, civil aviation, economics
The aviation industry was assessed at N258.9 billion in the newly published rebased GDP figures, indicating a sector facing poor performance and difficulties staying viable, according to Daily Trust.
The total represents the value of the sector included under Air Transportation in the GDP figures for 2024.
On Monday, July 21, 2025, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) published the updated GDP report, showing that the economy expanded by 3.13% during the first quarter of 2025, compared to 2.27% in the corresponding period of 2024.
The nominal GDP at market prices, after being recalculated, was N205.09 trillion in 2019, increased to N213.64 trillion in 2020, reached N243.30 trillion in 2021, rose to N274.23 trillion in 2022, amounted to N314.02 trillion in 2023, and totaled N372.82 trillion in 2024.
Where air transport stands
The air transport sector operates completely within a dollar-based system. The purchase of airplanes, refueling, aircraft servicing, and almost every activity within the industry are measured in U.S. dollars.
Nevertheless, based on NBS statistics, air transport was worth N258.9 billion in 2024, which equals approximately $169.3 million.
The industry was worth N215.6 billion in 2023; N178.4 billion in 2022; 145.5 billion in 2021, and N101.1 billion in 2020—the pandemic year—while reaching N222.4 billion in 2019.
According to Daily Trust, based on the exchange rate in 2019, approximately N306 per dollar, aviation expenses amounted to roughly $725.4 million.
The aviation industry faced restrictions throughout 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, significantly impacting air travel.
As per experts, the resurgence of air travel following the coronavirus outbreak was slowed down due to the depreciation of the naira and increasing price hikes, leading to fewer individuals traveling by plane.
A sector in recession?
As per an assessment conducted by the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), three industries performed below expectations in the updated GDP figures.
Analysts noted that three industries—air transportation, textiles, and coal extraction—are currently experiencing a downturn.
The CPPE stated, “High-achieving industries were financial services [15.3%], oil refinement [11.51%], transport [14.08], ICT [7.4%], and metallic minerals [25%].”
The subsequent industries experienced declines: Livestock (-16.7%), Fishing (-0.21%), Textiles (-1.63), Coal Mining (-22.3%), Quarries and Minerals (-21.55%), Plastics and Rubber (-3.2%), Iron and Steel (-0.35%), Air Transportation (-0.81%).
Recession-affected sectors consist of aviation, textile production, and coal extraction. This comes after they have experienced steady decline during recent periods.
As ticket costs rise, the number of travelers has decreased considerably, as reported by airline companies.
The Acting Managing Director of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, has recently expressed worry about declining passenger numbers, stating that this issue is a significant source of anxiety.
The head of Ibom Air stated that air travel demand has been decreasing since 2022, noting that the problem is worsening and steps need to be taken to draw more travelers into flying.
Decreasing passenger numbers – Service Providers
“We’ve dropped by 27% compared to 2024. We’re facing difficulties; we must figure out how to encourage more travel,” he stated.
An airline representative stated that airports need to collaborate with airlines to remain viable, noting, “Within the aviation system, the airline serves as the key force. No one would make even a small amount of currency if airlines stop operating. Everyone discusses finances since it is the airlines that keep operations running.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Aero Contractors, Capt. Ado Sanusi, told our reporter during an interview, “Passenger travel numbers have been decreasing in Nigeria. This decrease has continued, and we understand why it’s happening. I’ve discussed this in multiple interviews before. Several elements contribute to the drop in passenger volume. The flow of travelers indicates the level of economic activity within a nation. When the economy slows down, so does the movement of people.”
‘Activities picking up’
Sanusi, nevertheless, thinks the economy is showing signs of improvement slowly and mentioned that the federal government should collaborate with airlines to simplify tax procedures.
The economy is moving in the correct direction. However, the issue or challenge we face is that taxes are somewhat high, as well as ticket prices. This leads to higher costs overall, which means only a small number of people in Nigeria can afford to buy tickets.
Another party involved in aviation attributed the poor performance of the industry to the reduction in Nigerians’ available earnings.
“There’s no extra money anymore. People are definitely cutting back these days. Flying by plane has become something of a luxury,” he stated.
Nevertheless, Yinka Folami, President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), expressed disagreement with the notion that the aviation industry is experiencing a downturn.
Based on my experience and observations, there isn’t anything indicating such a major decline that would be categorized as a recession. Nothing suggests that to me,” he stated. “IATA data shows recovery, and the load factor remains fairly strong.
The depreciation of the Naira, with slowing inflation and progress in recovering from COVID-19 – according to an expert
An aviation specialist and the General Secretary of the Aviation Roundtable and Safety Initiative, Mr. Olumide Ohunayo, mentioned during an interview with Daily Trust that the industry had been steadily rebounding after the closure caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, but this momentum was hindered by the depreciation of the naira.
Between approximately N300 and one dollar in 2019, the local currency currently trades at N1,534 as of yesterday.
Ohunayo stated, “The aviation industry was the most impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. It was expected that it would require three years for air travel to return to levels seen before the pandemic. In my view, this forecast has only come true in two or three nations that have regained their 2019 standards.”
In our situation, as we begin to recover, there was a shortage of funding, particularly the dollar, which serves as the primary currency used in the industry. This impacted our ability to operate effectively, leading airlines to reduce their services, cancel certain routes, and prompting travelers to explore alternative choices.
The cost of tickets from dollars to naira surged sharply. As a result of this increase, travelers also stopped using air travel. Airlines no longer possess the same level of capacity as before, which has decreased and impacted the frequency and routes offered, as well as availability within the market.
The exchange rate between the dollar and the naira surged alongside the subsequent rise in inflation, making ticket prices more expensive for travelers.
Once more, the disposable income available to Nigerians previously has been significantly reduced due to inflation. As a result, individuals are no longer traveling for matters that are not essential. Therefore, the journey must hold great significance for those who undertake it.
Amidst all these circumstances, air transportation faced the greatest impact since it represents an upscale mode of travel and comes with a high cost.
‘Remember once again that they also imposed restrictions on private jets. Keep in mind that by 2019, the number of private jets exceeded that of scheduled flights. The crackdown on private jet activities and requiring them to formalize their documentation resulted in certain planes being removed from the country, with others being put into storage, which also impacted the aviation sector’s role in the economy.’
Specialist looks for focused assistance for struggling industry
The head of CPPE, Dr. Muda Yusuf, urged focused assistance for struggling industries.
“Particular focus must be placed on industries facing decline and those with sluggish expansion. Overcoming structural issues, enhancing financial accessibility, dealing with instability, and encouraging creativity will be essential for driving revival and development,” he stated.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Aug 17, 2025 | aviation, civil aviation, flights, flying, news
August 10, Pakistan — Iran Air has started non-stop flights linking Quetta with the Iranian cities of Zahedan and Mashhad, representing the initial consistent commercial aviation connection between these traditionally important locations. The carrier’s first flight safely arrived at Quetta International Airport on Friday, capturing interest from authorities and passengers. This newly established route aims to provide more ease for travelers and enhance the enduring cultural and economic ties between Pakistan and Iran.
During the airport event, Pakistan’s Envoy to Iran, Mohammad Mudassir Tipu, commended the initiation, referring to it as a “long-held wish” from citizens of both nations. He conveyed his belief that these non-stop flights will enhance commerce, tourism, and cultural interactions between the two countries. As per the envoy, the route holds “significant promise” for strengthening connections and promoting interpersonal relationships that extend past commercial and travel purposes.
The newly launched service will start with weekly operations connecting Quetta and Zahedan, offering a vital transportation choice for people from Balochistan and surrounding areas. Authorities anticipate that this frequency could grow over time as more passengers utilize the route. Additionally, the journey provides a practical link for pilgrims traveling to Mashhad, which is among Iran’s key holy sites. It is projected to generate substantial economic advantages via higher expenditures related to tourism and movement.
At the event, representatives emphasized that the launch occurs during a period when regional aviation connections are growing more significant. Due to the proximity of their locations and common cultural background between Pakistan and Iran, enhancing transportation networks has consistently been considered essential. Officials from both nations expressed their readiness to examine new routes in the near future to enhance mutual collaboration.
Nevertheless, the progress follows closely behind an announcement made by Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who declared that devotees will not be permitted to journey to Iran or Iraq via land for this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage because of safety issues. He mentioned that the choice was reached following thorough talks with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Balochistan administration, and intelligence organizations. Although overland movement continues to be limited, the introduction of this aerial route presents a secure and effective option for numerous passengers.
This achievement marks an important step for Iran Air’s direct route from Quetta to Zahedan to Mashhad, which will be crucial in connecting populations along the border. Weekly flights are anticipated to support both spiritual and recreational travel, as well as foster commercial relationships, thereby promoting collaboration between the two adjacent nations.
