ArcelorMittal acquires Austrian steel distribution company

To enhance it’s presence in Central Europe, ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel company, announces that it has acquired 100 per cent stakes of the Eisen Wagner GmbH, the Austrian steel distribution company.

Gonzalo Urquijo, member of ArcelorMittal's group management board and in charge of its Steel Solutions and Services division, commented: "This acquisition enables us to set foot in the very competitive and dynamic Austrian steel distribution market". "Once Eisen Wagner will be integrated into our Central European distribution network, it will allow ArcelorMittal to both strengthen its presence within this market and better serve its customers in Austria".

Eisen Wagner, one of the leading steel distribution companies in Austria It sold 140,000 tons and out of this 60,000 tons of steel products were processed in 2007. Its last yearly turnover from the year ending 28 February 2007, was 127 million euros, for a staff of 262.

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ICL Announces Calendar for the year 2008

December 17th, 2007:
Subhash Chandra, Chairman Essel Group along with Mr. Kapil Dev , Chairman Executive Board ICL today announced the cricket calendar for Indian Cricket League (ICL) for the year 2008. ICL will be having 5 tournaments next year.

All set to revolutionise the game of cricket, Indian Cricket League conducted the first ICL 20-20 Championship at the newly built cricket stadium at Panchkula , Chandigarh between November 30th and December 16th. The tournament witnessed world class facilities matching international standards followed in cricket tournaments world over. The high standard production facilities included 30 camera set up, higher technical specifications such as the inclusion of Fly cam, Hawk Eye, Zoomer, Snickometer, Speedgun and Third umpire.

Calendar Year 2008
S.No
Month
Tournament
Particulars
1
February 08
Domestic Championship
50 Over tournament
Indian players to play
2
February – March 08
Triangular Series to field ICL XI.

20 20 Over Tournament
3
March – April 08
ICL Grand Championship
20 20 Over Tournament
8 Teams to participate in the tournament.
Increase of 2 Teams.
4
April – May 08
ICL to Open Academies in prominent cities.

5
September – October 08
ICL Invitation Cup
20 20 Over Tournament
8 Teams to participate in the tournament
6
November – December 08
ICL 20 20 Indian Championships 2nd Edition.
20 20 Over Tournament
8 Teams to participate in the tournament.

Praj Industries joins ICRISAT for sweet sorghum ethanol consortium

Praj Industries joined hands with ICRISAT by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to become a member of the institute's Sweet Sorghum Ethanol Research Consortium (SSERC) on December 10, 2007.

Dr William Dar, Director General of ICRISAT and Shashank Inamdar, CEO & Managing Director of Praj Industries, signed the MOA at Hyderabad.According to Dr William Dar, this partnership will go a long way in enhancing the commercialization of sweet sorghum for bioethanol production globally.

Production of ethanol from sweet sorghum as a biofuel can provide additional income to dryland farmers and does not compromise their food security. Through the ICRISAT Sweet Sorghum Ethanol Research Consortium (SSERC), the institute promotes the technology for producing the biofuel through public-private partnership.

The overall goal of this consortium is to strengthen sweet sorghum research at ICRISAT and at its partners' locations to improve the livelihood options of the smallholder farmers in the semi-arid tropics.Praj Industries based in Pune, Maharashtra, India, is a leading biofuels technology company with a number of ethanol and biodiesel production plants to its credit.

Praj, with its global operations, aims to provide end-to-end solutions backed by several years of research and development resources to support the biofuels industry.

Through the MOA, Praj Industries could avail the sweet sorghum research outputs of ICRISAT to further refine their bioethanol engineering activities. This includes the testing of sweet sorghum varieties and hybrids along with technical know-how on sweet sorghum cultivation aspects.

Through this partnership, ICRISAT and Praj can work together to tap into the huge global opportunity to benefit millions of farmers by offering new market opportunities through the sweet sorghum for ethanol technology.

Global Crop Diversity Trust to fund ICRISAT's Genebank

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) has entered into an agreement with the Global Crop Diversity Trust (GCDT), to ensure the long-term availability of funds for the conservation, characterisation and distribution of germplasm (seeds) in the ICRISAT's Genebank for the benefit of agriculture and food security for mankind.

Dr William Dar, director general of ICRISAT and Prof Cary Fowler, executive director of the GCDT, signed the agreement, recently during the Annual General Meeting of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) at Beijing, China.

Under the agreement, the Trust will commit $ 8 million and ICRISAT $ 2 million, totaling an endowment of $ 10 million. The proceeds from the endowment will be used for genetic resources conservation and management activities at ICRISAT.

As per the agreement, the endowment's support for the sorghum germplasm collection will begin in 2007, pearl millet from 2008 and chickpea in 2009, to be followed by other ICRISAT mandate crops. The aim is to raise at least US$ 450,000 per year as return from the endowment to meet critical operational needs such as regeneration, characterization, conservation and viability testing for the crop collections held in trust at ICRISAT.

According to Dr William Dar, the long-term partnership with the GCDT, an international fund established to ensure conservation and availability of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture, will ensure that there is steady financial support to ICRISAT's Genebank.

ICRISAT holds more than 118,000 accessions of germplasm for pearl millet, sorghum, chickpea, groundnut, pigeonpea and six small millets in its Genebank, Dr Dar added. "This global treasure holds the genetic material to overcome some of the future breeding bottlenecks and can help breeders develop varieties that can overcome drought, pest and disease infestations."

According to Dr CLL Gowda, ICRISAT's Global Theme Leader for Crop Improvement, the genetic resources at ICRISAT are to be preserved for eternity. This is a big responsibility that the Center is shouldering, to ensure that the genetic resources are conserved safely and will be available for the future generations.

Through the agreement ICRISAT and GCDT will conserve and make available the ICRISAT-held collections through:

* Long-term storage, management and curation of germplasm;

* Safe duplication of the collection;

* Characterization and evaluation of germplasm;

* Documentation of the germplasm and provision of data in publicly-available documentation systems;

* Distribution of the germplasm in accordance with the International Treaty;

* Providing training and capacity building;

* Partnering with other genebanks and networks; and

* Providing conservation services to others.With the committed continuous support from GCDT, ICRISAT's germplasm collection holds the future for dryland agriculture in the developing countries.

Tata Chemicals joins ICRISAT's sweet sorghum ethanol consortium

Tata Chemicals (TCL), a leading company in the Tata group of industries joined hands with ICRISAT by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for entering the Sweet Sorghum Ethanol Research Consortium (SSERC) on 17 November 2007.

Dr William Dar, Director General of ICRISAT and Homi R Khusrokhan, Managing Director of TCL, signed the MOA at Hyderabad.

According to Dr William, this partnership will go a long way in enhancing the commercialization of sweet sorghum for bioethanol production.

Production of ethanol from sweet sorghum as a biofuel can provide additional income to dryland farmers and does not compromise their food security.Through the ICRISAT Sweet Sorghum Ethanol Research Consortium (SSERC) the Institute promotes the technology for producing the biofuel through public-private partnership.

Tata Chemical is today a leading manufacturer of inorganic chemicals, fertilizers and food additives. The company has an annual turnover of about $ 1.5 billion and is part of the $ 28.8 billion Tata Group, India's foremost business conglomerate.

Recently TCL has entered biofuels production and is setting up a plant in Nanded, Maharashtra, for manufacture of bioethanol from sweet sorghum. Through the MOA, TCL can now avail the sweet sorghum research outputs of ICRISAT.

This includes supply of seeds of sweet sorghum varieties and hybrids along with technical know-how on sweet sorghum cultivation aspects.

Khusrokhan said that he was very happy that TCL had joined the consortium and was very impressed by the wonderful developmental work done by ICRISAT all around the world.It is envisaged that there is a huge global opportunity for all partners to work together to benefit millions of farmers by offering new market opportunities through this new venture.

Continental Airlines to offer free helicopter service

Offer valid for BusinessFirst travellers

Continental Airlines is offering customers travelling across the Atlantic on qualifying BusinessFirst tickets complimentary fares for the eight-minute scheduled helicopter transfers between its New York hub, Newark Liberty International Airport, and two locations in Manhattan.

"Continental already offers the most convenient way to get to Manhattan, with its exclusive customs and immigration facilities and AirTrain service to Penn Station in Midtown," said Jim Summerford, the airline's Vice President Europe, Middle East & India."

He also thanked to thier partner, US Helicopter for getting to Manhattan even quicker – and at no extra fare to our highest-yield customers.

The offer applies to BusinessFirst customers travelling to New York on fares booked in the airline's J and D class of service and originating from any of the 29 cities in 16 countries in Continental's trans-Atlantic route network.

Customers travelling on return tickets qualify for complimentary fares for helicopter transfers in both directions between New York Liberty and Manhattan; those on one-way tickets qualify for a one-way transfer. While the fare is waived, customers are liable for applicable taxes. The offer is subject to availability and to changes or cancellation at any time. US Helicopter has a different baggage allowance policy than Continental.

US Helicopter operates scheduled flights Monday-Friday, every business day.

Continental Airlines is the world's fifth largest airline, with more than 3,100 daily departures serving 144 U.S. and 138 international destinations. Across the Atlantic, Continental operates over 300 departures weekly from 29 cities in 16 countries to its U.S. gateway hubs at New York, Houston and Cleveland, with onward connections to more than 230 cities throughout North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

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Click4Sky.com: a new airline arrives on the European market

A New Airline Arrives on the European Market: CLICK4SKY.com
The first to offer guaranteed ticket prices inclusive of all fees


CLICK4SKY.com is coming to the European market with an offer of low-price tickets and is the only airline to offer a guaranteed price inclusive of all fees and taxes. One-way tickets for flights from Prague to 36 European destinations are available for CZK 1,990 inclusive of fees. CLICK4SKY.com passengers will fly on Czech Airlines aircraft.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of CLICK4SKY.com, Jan Kaše said, “We are bringing to the market the product that passengers really want. People who fly once or twice a year want to fly not only inexpensively but, above all, want to get a fair offer and know the conditions of the flight, including the price, right from their initial decisionCLICK4SKY.com will offer them all of this.

CLICK4SKY.com will give everybody a fair offer. The price of a one-way ticket to any of the 36 European destinations available will be CZK 1,990 and includes all fees and taxes. “Our price is guaranteed and is the same anywhere in Europe. For CZK 1,990 you buy a ticket to your target destination and for CZK 1,990 you buy a ticket back. You do not pay any other taxes or fees on top of that as they are all included in the price. Our price is final and guaranteed for everyone,” explained Jan Kaše. After the ticket is purchased, the date of the flight cannot be changed or any other changes made.

Services

• What the airline will offer:
• We are offering you the same price to 36 European destinations in 22 countries
• The price already includes all fees - you will not pay more
• We guarantee the price for the entire time the tickets for a particular flight are sold
• We will take care of you on board - refreshments are included in the price
• You can check in comfortably via the Internet at no charge
• We fly on direct routes from one city to another, without any transfers or unnecessary stopovers
• We fly to the major airports in 36 European cities
• We sell tickets only over the Internet - we do not operate any branches
• We provide electronic tickets

With CLICK4SKY.com, passengers will land at the major, key European airports from which they can get downtown easily and quickly. For the present time, passengers will travel on board Czech Airlines aircraft.
“We are flying with an airline that has earned awards for outstanding services, on-board service and its on-time record for several consecutive years,” said Jan Kaše.
On board the planes, the crew will provide the highest level of care to CLICK4SKY.com passengers. On-board services are free of charge and include high-quality refreshments, including a selection of hot and cold beverages. The daily press and an on-board magazine will be available, and passengers will also have the opportunity to purchase attractive merchandise. CLICK4SKY.com passengers will be able to check in for their flight from the comfort of their home or office via the Internet check-in. The flight attendants speak Czech, English and other major languages.

Tickets
Tickets are available on the CLICK4SKY.com website for flights from Prague to Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Berlin, Belgrade, Bologna, Brussels, Bratislava, Budapest, Cairo, Cologne, Copenhagen, Cracow, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hanover, Istanbul, Košice, London, Ljubljana, Madrid, Manchester, Milan, Munich, Oslo, Riga, Rome, Stuttgart, Tallinn, Thessalonica, Venice, Vienna, Vilnius and Zurich. Tickets can be purchased on the CLICK4SKY.com website

“For Czech Airlines, CLICK4SKY.com represents an opportunity to make use of any available spare capacity on its aircraft,” said Petr Pištělák, Vice-President for Marketing and Product Development at Czech Airlines. As part of its OK 2006-2008 revival strategy, sales at Czech Airlines have been focused, as a priority, on business-class passengers and frequent flyers in economy class. With this strategy it has managed to achieve revenue growth. Czech Airlines now wants to offer the remaining free capacity to another type of clientele through CLICK4SKY.com. “We are expecting to achieve additional revenues in the order of hundreds of millions of crowns per year through sales of CLICK4SKY.com tickets,” added Petr Pištělák.

Czech Airlines in new look

Czech Airlines (CSA), best Airline in Central/Eastern Europe for the last four years has also been gradually working on changes to its overall visual presentation over the past eighteen months. These changes have already been seen in customer promotional materials and in new staff uniforms. Czech Airlines recently redesigned its largest sales office, which is located in downtown Prague. The last phase of implementing the company's new look is the redesign of the Czech Airlines' logo.

This process will not result in any additional costs to the company because "The painting of the outside of our planes has to be redone on a regular basis – roughly every five years”, said Petr Pištělák, the vice president for marketing and product development. The company will change its logo, as featured on all other materials and equipment, in a similar manner.














Czech Airlines is the largest national carrier in the new EU member countries, in terms of the number of passengers carried. In 2006, the Airline carried a record 5.5 million passengers. Since 2001, it has been a member of SkyTeam, one of the leading global airline alliances. It currently offers connections to 104 destinations in 44 countries worldwide. The fleet comprises 50 aircraft – ATR 42s/72s, Boeing 737s, and Airbus A310/A320/A321s. In the first half of 2007, Czech Airlines ranked first in on-time flight performance, among the 26 member airlines of the Association of European Airlines (AEA).

World Airports to be represented at 36th International Civil Aviation assembly

Aviation industry leaders from 35 international organisations and civil aviation regulators from 190 Governments meet in Montreal for the 36th International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) triennial assembly. Airports Council International (ACI) Director General Robert J Aaronson will lead the world’s airports.

“The ICAO assembly is an opportunity for the industry to meet with representatives of the world’s governments to discuss and reach conclusions on the important issues facing the industry, in one place and at one time,” said ACI Director General Robert J Aaronson, “While there will a strong focus at this assembly on the environment, ACI has submitted papers across a range of issues of importance to airports worldwide, including vital steps needed in safety and security.” Importantly, ACI also took part yesterday in a high level meeting on a comprehensive implementation plan for aviation safety in Africa.

Safety papers

ACI is encouraging airport operators, along with their regulators, to focus on airport certification as a high priority, believing that regulators should apply ICAO standards but avoid an excessively prescriptive approach to safety regulation, with a key objective to promote the introduction of safety management systems at airports worldwide.

It also suggests a review of airport specification guidelines for aircraft, Code F specifications for the new large aircraft such as the A380.

Environment issues

ACI states that, “Addressing environmental issues is fundamental to the ability of airports to maintain current operation levels and to handle the growing demand for air transportation”. Aircraft noise remains the environmental issue of greatest significance to most airports around the world, with the wider topic of aviation’s contribution to climate change starting to have an impact in Europe in particular.

Security concerns
ACI recognises the swift response of the industry to the so-called ‘liquids and gels’ issue that began in August 2006, but conveys that some of the issues still being felt at airports, saying, “the industry believes that further leadership and urgent action will be needed to achieve a global solution to the problems”. In the ACI security paper, the assembly is invited to request ICAO to: establish a recommended time frame in which states should fully implement the new security arrangements and establish a process to coordinate their implementation internationally; provide a template and process under which states can declare their compliance and facilitate mutual validation by making such information available to other States on request; and consider other suggestions for the more effective implementation of a permanent global solution.

The first of two ACI papers on economics supports ICAO policies on airport charges stating that charges should be established by consultation and agreement between airport operators and airport users wherever possible.

The second paper highlights recent trends in airport economics. It says that “steady air traffic growth and capacity issues are keeping capital expenditure for airport infrastructure expansion at a high level”. Adding “airport activities will continue to generate a substantial economic contribution to an increasingly interdependent world economy”.

ACI is presenting and information paper on cargo, together with the International Air Cargo Association and the International Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations.

Boeing predicts 3,400 new airplanes in China

China will require 3,400 new airplanes worth about $340 billion over the next 20 years, according to Boeing annual forecast for the commercial airplane market.

China will continue to lead all domestic air travel markets with a long-term passenger-with per kilometer growth rate of 8.8 percent. Following the anticipated surge in passenger traffic for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the China domestic market will grow nearly five-fold by 2026 to become slightly larger than today's intra-North American market.

With the continued high rate of growth for China air travel and air cargo markets, China's fleet will nearly quadruple to 4,460 airplanes by the end of the forecast period -- 2026.

Single-aisle airplanes such as the Boeing 737 will be the largest category with total new airplane deliveries reaching 2,200. Intermediate twin-aisles such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777 will see approximately 750 airplane deliveries. When combined, the single-aisle and intermediate twin-aisle market will make up 90 percent of China's total delivery dollars. About 330 regional jets and 90 airplanes of 747-and-larger size will be delivered.

With China's cargo markets leading the global industry, Chinese air carriers will add about 300 freighter airplanes by 2026. Its total fleet of freighter airplanes will more than quadruple in size.
"China domestic frequencies have increased more than sixteen-fold since 1990 while airplane sizes have remained about the same," said Randy Tinseth, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president, Marketing. "The Chinese domestic market's projected average growth is almost 9 percent. Boeing believes the current trend of more frequencies and nonstop flights will continue to accommodate this growth through a focus on single-aisle airplanes such as the Boeing 737, which is renowned for its superior performance, efficiency and low operating costs."

Air-travel growth between China and North America as well as between China and Europe will more than double in size during the next 20 years, and the number of city pairs will more than triple. There will be an increased use of intermediate twin-aisle airplanes to and from all mainland China major cities, fueling frequency growth and new nonstop services. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777 are the perfect combination of airplanes to satisfy this kind of development.

Worldwide, Boeing projects investments of $2.8 trillion for 28,600 new commercial airplanes to be delivered during the next 20 years. The Boeing market forecast is widely regarded as the most comprehensive and respected analysis of the commercial aviation market.

Mystery deepens over Tibet activist disappearance from September 11

The mystery surrounding the disappearance of CA Kallianpur, National Coordinator of Friends of Tibet and an expert Indinan deepens as the officials go clueless.

The 54-year old Tibet Activist and Researcher was travelling from Bombay to New Delhi on September 11, 2007 to organise a panel discussion on "India's Foreign Policy on China" at the India International Centre on September 13, 2007 and never reached NewDelhi.

Kallianpur's mobile which was traced to Jaipur Circle in Rajasthan was found with Jeetendra, a young boy in Kishenganj village, near Alwar inRajasthan, who was gifted the handset by his father Kailash Chand who happened to be travelling on the same train on September 11, 2007.

The police in Alwar managed to get Kallianpur's phone call record listfrom Reliance Mobile September 11-13, 2007 and have questioned thosewho received calls from this mobile number.

While questioning, Kailash Chand admitted that he found the phonelying under a seat in the compartment in which he travelled from 11pm,11sept till 7am on 12 Sept, when he got down at Mathura Junction.Kailash Chand said he asked co-passengers whom the phone belonged to and for the answer they said, "It might be that of the person who felldown in the train" he was shown the photograph of the missing person,but he said he had not seen him on the train at all and refused any role in the disappearance of the person.

Though there is abreakthrough by the Rajasthan police, the police in Bombay areclueless.

According to the Railway officials, there are no cases of any passenger having fallen ill or meeting with an accident at any of the stations between Bombay and Amritsar on Paschim Express route on that day. What is also mysterious is that according to railway officials no person by the name CA Kallianpur had travelled on the train onSeptember 11, 2007 as his name doesn't appear anywhere on the list.

Though strangely his mobile phone was found on the same train on September 12, 2007 around at 7 am, about 19 hours train journey from Mumbai.

Though Friends of Tibet believe that robbery was the reason behind hisdisappearance, the organisation does not rule out other possibilities due to the seriousness of the work he is involved with.

Meanwhile on September 14, 2007 one of the Friends of Tibet campaigners received an email from the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in India informing "Sorry. WE DON'T have anything in this regard yet."

About CA Kallianpur

Height 5.3 feet, wheatish complexion,speaks Hindi, English, Marathi and Konkani. He was carrying a brownsuitcase while travelling.

Usually wears trousers and full-sleeved shirts. He has streaks of gray hair though he keeps it short. He wearsspectacles all the time.

Any information on Kallianpur would be highly appreciated. Please contact: 9833191592 (Sethu Das) / 9418079832, 9971448216 (TenzinTsundue) / 9810205217 (Chaman Sharma) or email:support@friendsoftibet.org--

Friends of Tibet, PO Box: 16674, Bombay 400050, India

Friends of Tibet is a global movement to keep alive the issue of Tibet through direct action. Our activities are aimed at ending illegal China's occupation of Tibet and the suffering of the Tibetan people. Friends of Tibet supports the continued struggle of the Tibetan people for independence.

To know more, vsit: http://www.friendsoftibet.org/

Asian Tennis Federation president

Anil K. Khanna, President of Asian Tennis Federation

TAM Airlines orders four Boeing 777

Brazil's TAM Airlines ordered for four additional 777-300ERs. This orders takes Boeing order book passto 1003 B777.

TAM is Brazil's largest airline, flying both domestic and international routes. TAM became the first Latin American airline to incorporate the 777-300ER into its long-range fleet plan when it booked its initial order for four 777-300ERs earlier this year. TAM's first 777-300ER is scheduled to be delivered in June 2008. Prior to ordering these eight 777s, TAM was an exclusive Airbus operator.

"TAM's recent orders confirm airline preference for the 777 family which commands more than a 65 percent market share in its category because of its lower operating costs, passenger pleasing cabin and unmatched reliability, " said Larry Loftis, vice president, Boeing 777 Program. "We have continually enhanced and improved the performance of the 777 family of airplanes. Today, we have grown that family to include two, new, longer range 777s and a freighter version that will enter service in the fourth quarter of 2008."

Marco Antonio Bologna, TAM's CEO said the 777-300ER acquisitions are an important step for TAM's growth in the long-haul international market. "The Boeing 777 provides TAM with unmatched revenue-generating capability, beginning with fuel savings and environmental benefits," Bologna said. "Further, this is a plane long-haul passengers recognize for its spaciousness, comfort and award-winning interiors."

The fuel-efficient 777-300ER is the world's largest long-range twin-engine jetliner capable of carrying 365 passengers up to 7,880 nautical miles (14,594 kilometers). The efficient twin-engine design provides the lowest fuel consumption and overall operating costs in its class.

BINDASS TO GO ON AIR from SEPT 17

India's leading, media & entertainment company has announced the launch of Bindass , its Hindi general entertainment channel (GEC) will go on air on September 17, 2007.

On the occasion of 'Bindass' going on air, Zarina Mehta, CEO, Bindass said, "We are really excited that brand Bindass is being born on September 17, '07. We launch simultaneously with the Bindass GEC, a fully loaded Mobile service with our short code 59995 and two websites bindass.com and a really exciting user generated website lagegi.com.

"It is, indeed, an achievement for Bindass to reach out to 50% of India's Hindi-speaking cable viewership in a span of just two weeks from its launch. Bindass is proud to associate with Tata Sky. With its superior quality of satellite transmission and interactivity, Tata Sky is an ideal platform for Bindass to reach its audience ", said Shantonu Aditya, CEO, UTV broadcasting & distribution.

The channel is targeted at a target audience in the age range of 15 to 34 years. It will be available on 'Tata Sky', India's top direct-to-home (DTH) satellite television provider offering close to 110 channels, various services such as movie-on-demand, gaming active news, sports etc

The toilet so far

Do you want to go to this toilet, what will you prefer.

Boeing to promote 787 Dreamliner, 777, 737 and 747-8 at Asian Aerospace 2007

World's largest airplane manufacturer, Boeing, will be doing extensive promotion 787 Dreamliner, 777, 737 and 747-8 at Asian Aerospace 2007 beginning Sept. 3 in Hong Kong.

"Asian Aerospace showcases this exciting and dynamic market," said Larry Dickenson, senior vice president, sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "In addition to featuring our products and services, Boeing will take the opportunity to underscore its strong commitment to customers, partners and suppliers," he said.

With the new show's focus on commercial aviation, Boeing will be represented by its Commercial Airplanes unit, with participation by the Commercial Aviation Services team, Alteon Training and others. Boeing's schedule begins on Monday, Sept. 3, when Larry Dickenson discusses the commercial aviation fleet and the market outlook for the Asia-Pacific region in a presentation to the Air Transport Strategy Conference.

Additionally, on Tuesday, Sept. 4, Boeing Regional Marketing Director Jim Edgar will conduct a press briefing on the global air cargo market; including the latest Boeing freighter fleet forecast data. Air cargo traffic growth to, from and within Asia is forecast to exceed the world average during the next 20 years.

Bombardier shows more interests in Asian aerospace

With the Asia-Pacific region continuing to grow in importance in the regional and business aircraft markets, and with China forecasted to become one of the world’s key aviation markets over the next 20 years, Bombardier will show its support of this expanding marketplace by attending Asian Aerospace 2007 at its new location in Hong Kong, from September 3 to 6.
Bombardier’s aerospace activities in China have grown substantially in recent years.

Bombardier is a leading supplier of regional aircraft to the Asia-Pacific region, with 227 of its Q-Series turboprops and CRJ regional jets in service or ordered by approximately 40 operators in 14 countries.

“As Asian airlines continue to re-evaluate their strategies to focus on economics, Bombardier is well positioned to offer solutions to meet their requirements,” said James Dailly, Senior Vice-president, Sales at Bombardier Regional Aircraft. “Bombardier is the only manufacturer that offers two distinct families of regional aircraft: regional jets and turboprops, each offering low operating costs.”

With an installed fleet of over 100 business jets based in the region, Bombardier Business Aircraft maintains its strong presence in Asia-Pacific. Bombardier is the market leader in both the large and ultra-long range aircraft segments, with 64 per cent and 54 per cent of the installed base respectively.

Bombardier is the only Original Equipment Manufacturer to offer aircraft in eight of nine business jet market segments – from the premium Learjet 40 XR light jet to the ultra long-range Global Express XRS aircraft and the Challenger 800 Series in the corporate airliner segment – the widest selection of any corporate jet manufacturer.

Continuing on its recently launched world tour, Bombardier will present the latest full-size, cabin mock-up of the CSeries aircraft at Asian Aerospace 2007. Featured in the mock-up will be the forward galley with offset door configuration, two rows in business class, four rows in economy class and the aft galley with a lavatory area. The new cabin permits airlines to experience the convenience of overhead rotating bins and the cross-section fuselage was recently modified to provide additional passenger comfort.

The CSeries aircraft, designed specifically for the lower end of the 100- to 149-seat commercial market, is ideally positioned to replace many of the aging narrow-body aircraft presently in service in the Asia-Pacific region. This family of aircraft will offer airlines the opportunity to grow their networks with increased frequency and more point-to-point operations into markets that are not well served at this time due to range and aircraft size constraints.
Bombardier Aerospace’s relationship with China

The Asian Aerospace International Expo and Congress is being held at AsiaWorld-Expo alongside the Hong Kong International Airport. The Bombardier exhibit is located at Hall 9, Booth 9F01 and the Bombardier hospitality suite is found within the static display area at the Business Aviation Centre. This trade-only event is expected to feature more than 500 participating companies from more than 20 countries.

Bombardier aircraft on static display at Asian Aerospace 2007

CRJ900 NextGen – The CRJ900 NextGen airliner, in the colours of U.S. carrier Northwest Airlines, features the increased use of composite materials and the all-new CRJ NextGen interior with larger windows, LED lighting and larger overhead bins. The aircraft is configured with12 business class and 64 economy class seats. Like other members of the CRJ NextGen family, the aircraft is designed to deliver operating cost improvements and is the next step in the continuing evolution of the CRJ Series. Following Asian Aerospace, the CRJ900 NextGen jetliner will embark on an extensive demonstration tour of several countries in Asia and Europe.

Challenger 300: This first true super-midsize jet offers transcontinental range and superior long-range cruise speed, with eight passengers. It can fly Hong Kong-Darwin non-stop with a full payload and its superior airfield performance allows it to operate out of 5,000-foot (1,524-m) runways with ease*.

The Challenger 300 jet’s fleet currently totals over 150 aircraft, with a dispatch reliability of over 99.5 per cent as at July 31, 2007.

Global Express XRS: The pioneering Global Express XRS business jet features the largest cabin of any purpose-built corporate aircraft – with more cabin volume and more floor space than its closest competitor. No other business jet in the ultra long-range segment matches the high-speed range capability delivered by this aircraft. Offering the ultimate in cabin comfort, this impressive jet can link London-Singapore and Hong Kong- Los Angeles non-stop with eight passengers and three-to-four crew*.

Luxury chocolate experience onboard for Gulf Air premium class passengers

Lee Shave (second from right) tasting a chocolate variety while Marjo Rashid (right) looks on. Ali Rashid (left) and Gulf Air Chef Christophe Comacho (second left) discuss the chocolate menu.

Manama, Bahrain 27 August 2007: Taking its premium class onboard catering to greater heights, Gulf Air, the five-times-in-a-row winner of the SkyTrax Best Onboard Catering Award for First Class, has just introduced one more delicacy to its award winning First Class menu.

A select range of handmade premium chocolates will be served onboard for First Class passengers from now on, to be supplied by Bahraini chocolatier-couple Ali Rashid and Marjo Rashid under an exclusive arrangement.

“Gulf Air has carved a niché for itself in onboard fine-dining by introducing refreshingly innovative service concepts and products,” says Gulf Air Executive Vice President Marketing and Sales Lee Shave.

“We understand well our premium passengers, who not only have discerning tastes and but also expect certain exclusivity when travelling with us. The chocolate range produced by Ali and Marjo, who are trained in Holland in chocolate-making, fits this bill. They have recreated the European chocolate-making art with a Middle Eastern finesse right here in Bahrain. Besides, as the flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Gulf Air is proud to support this unique local venture.”

Passengers can indulge themselves tasting some of the unique and exotic couverture chocolate combinations, developed and perfected by the couple, such as Zanzabil ginger, Muhallabiah, Caramel delight and Hazelnut cream.

“We are proud to be a supplier to Gulf Air’s first class cabin service, which has set an industry standard for onboard service,” adds Ali Rashid.

“We use the finest quality ingredients sourced from Switzerland and other European countries and personally create our combinations to ensure our chocolates provide a long-lasting experience to Gulf Air customers.”

Boeing Delivers 3,000th Everett-built widebody Airplane

In the past 40 years, the fleet of 747, 767 and 777 airplanes has:

Flown more than 34.5 million flights Logged more than 148 million flight hours
Flown 71 billion nautical miles

Everett, Wash., Aug. 27, 2007: Boeing today delivered its 3,000th widebody airplane from its Everett, Wash., site. The airplane was a 777-200ER (Extended Range) model that was delivered to Korean Air.

The 3,000 airplanes built and delivered from the Boeing Everett factory include 747, 767 and 777 models. The site is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

"We are honored to receive the 3,000th airplane assembled at the Everett plant," said J.H. Lee, president and COO, Korean Air. "Boeing Everett employees have made high-quality, reliable airplanes that have played a critical role in the success of our airline."

The 3,000th airplane is joining the Korean Air fleet of 123 airplanes, which includes 13 777-200ERs, four 777-300s, 24 747-400s and 21 747-400 Freighters. Korean Air plans to use the new 777 for long-haul business routes to the Americas, Europe and the Middle East.

Korean Air also has 35 additional airplanes on order from the Everett programs including 777-300ERs, 777 Freighters, 747-8 Freighters and 787 Dreamliners. In addition, the airline has four 737s on order from the Boeing factory in Renton, Wash.

Journalists can apply for free speech award

Region :WorldwideCountry :NoneTopic :Press Freedom, Radio, Television, Fellowships and Awards, Print Journalism

15/08/2007Journalists across the globe can compete for the International Award for Freedom of Speech, which recognizes reporting that shows “free and independent vision,” regardless of the subject matter.

Entry deadline: September 15.

The award is worth EU€5000, organized by the Marseille-Provence-Alpes du Sud Press Society, is open to professional journalists who work for international news agencies, whether operating locally or regionally. Entries should have been published or broadcast from September 1, 2006, to August 31, 2007.

Applications should include an original copy of the published article (15,000 characters maximum), a VHS copy for TV (12 minutes maximum), or a tape or CD for radio entries (6 minutes maximum). All entries should accompany a French translation.
For more information, contact c-presse@wanadoo.fr or visit http://www.rsf.org/article.php3?id_article=22801.

Photojournalists invited to participate in annual contest

Region :WorldwideCountry :NoneTopic :Photojournalism, Fellowships and Awards
15/08/2007Photojournalists worldwide have the chance to win US$1,000 and a Canon SLR digital camera by participating in Editor and Publisher’s eighth annual Photos of the Year Contest. Last day to enter: September 14.

Participants can submit photos that have been published in their newspaper or on their newspaper’s Web site since October 1, 2006. The entry fee is US$35 for single entry or $60 for a photo essay or series (three to10 photos). Categories include news, features, sports and multiple images/photo essay.

Winners and honorable mentions will be published in the magazine’s November issue and an online gallery at http://www.editorandpublisher.com on October 29.For more information, contact Daniela DiMaggio at ddimaggio@editorandpublisher.com or Ryan Whiting at ryan.whiting@nielsen.com, or visit http://editorandpublisher.nielsencontests.com/

Design group offers membership in developing countries

Region :WorldwideCountry :NoneTopic :Editing, Management, Print Journalism, Networking
20/08/2007The Society of New Design (SND) is offering membership to designers in developing countries who cannot afford the usual dues.

SND recently announced that in some specific developing countries, news organizations could join through special corporate memberships. The organizations can each then name three individual journalists to represent them and receive SND benefits. These benefits include discounts, a copy of the annual book “Best of Newspaper Design,” digital copies of the society’s quarterly journal, and access to the newsletter.For more information, contact SND at snd@snd.org, telephone +1 401 294 5233, or visit http://www.snd.org

Armenian School of Journalism (ASJ) - A two-year international masters degree program in journalism

Organized by the Journalism Department of Yerevan State University and the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ). Deadline to apply: September 5, 2007.

10 – 12 students, selected in competition, will be trained to assume news and management positions at newspapers, news agencies, broadcast outlets and Web-based publications.

will be provided by American, European and Caucasian journalists and scholars. The journalism faculty and curriculum for the school will be provided by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), a Washington-based journalism organization, with the cooperation from Louisiana State University and Kent State University. The program is funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

The curriculum is based on a hands-on, experiential approach, using the latest techniques of fact-based, professional reporting and writing for both print and broadcast media. Students have access to a computer laboratory, the Internet, photo, audio and video equipment and a journalism library. The students will publish “PatUhan” student newspaper and its web version.
Graduates of ASJ will receive MA degree diploma from Journalism Department of YSU and an internationally recognized certificate from ICFJ.

The program will be offered in four semesters from September 2007 to May 2009. The best students will be given opportunity to have internship in outstanding media outlets abroad.
APPLICANTS MUST HAVE:* Bachelor’s or master’s degree (previous training or education in journalism not required) * Commitment to pro-active journalism * Good command of a foreign language* Basics of computer literacy

ENTRANCE TESTS & DOCUMENTS:* Filled-in Application form (the form is attached)* Diploma and official transcript * Interview with the selection committee APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED:Applications should be submitted from June 1 to September 5 at Armenian School of Journalism, Journalism Department of Yerevan State University (1 Alex Manukyan str., 7th building, 5th floor., room 509a; Yerevan, Armenia; tel.: +37410 554 130)For more information about program, please, contact Hasmik Mkrtchyan, Program Assistant, mobile: +37491 371 289, e-mail: http://f5mail.rediff.com/bn/compose.cgi?login=emailmail&session_id=5L23PK1KRKyLVFlpXAw9Kjh6wZbPywo1&FormName=mail_to_individual&email=amkrtchyan@icfj.org, http://f5mail.rediff.com/bn/compose.cgi?login=emailmail&session_id=5L23PK1KRKyLVFlpXAw9Kjh6wZbPywo1&FormName=mail_to_individual&email=hasmikmkr@yahoo.com.

job as Television News Writer

The Middle East Broadcasting Networks, Inc. (MBN) has an immediate opening for an experienced Television News Writer. MBN is a Washington, DC. based international multi-media broadcasting corporation broadcasting television and FM /AM radio news and information in Arabic to the 22+ Arabic speaking countries of the Middle East and North Africa as well as to Arabic speakers across Europe.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: News writers are responsible for writing scripts for news broadcasts. The incumbent translates material from English into Arabic. The incumbent works closely with MBN’s editorial personnel, Production & Broadcast Operations.

DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES: - Communicate and translate from English to Arabic- Develop and write new stories in classical Arabic with clarity, accuracy and balance- Perform under deadline pressure - Complete a variety of writing assignments for summaries, news programs, news packages, live events and features.- Experience with digital news broadcasting - Responsibilities may also include assisting producers, up to and including line producing.- Maintain a knowledge of current International and US events- Ability to conduct on-line research for difficult story assignment

QUALIFICATION: - Bachelors degree in journalism or broadcast journalism- 3 years experience writing international news or other professional writing experience- Strong attention to detail- Able to work effectively with all levels of management- Strong computer and database skills- Exercise self-discipline and time-management skills- Must be able to accommodate flexible work schedule to support 24/7 news environment which will include overnight shift coverage.

Applicants will be asked to demonstrate their ability by taking a writing skills test.
MBN offers a challenging work environment, competitive pay and excellent benefits. The selected candidate must be able to pass background check and receive work authorization. MBN is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation. Please forward your cover letter, cv/resume, writing sample and salary expectations to mbnjobs@alhurra.com. Please include the job title of the position for which you are applying in the email subject line.

Middle East Broadcasting Networks, Inc (MBN) is proud to be an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Please visit our website at www.alhurra.com.

PART-TIME EDITORIAL JOB VACANCY ON MIZZIMA NEWS

PART-TIME EDITORIAL JOB VACANCY ON MIZZIMA NEWSThis not-for-profit news agency, specializing in Burma-Related news andmultimedia - www.mizzima.com and www.mizzima.tv - is looking forin-housejournalism trainers (volunteer) for its reporters and staff in MizzimaOffices in New Delhi and Chiang Mai (Thailand) from September 1, 2007 through to March 31, 2008. The trainers will need to provide theMizzimajournalists with training In journalism and multi-media (includingprintjournalism, broadcasting journalism, photography, and IT). Salary and benefits are negotiable.Applicants should send a letter explaining why they are interested in
the\u003cbr\>position, a CV, and two references to Soe Myint, Editor In-Chief,\u003cbr\>\u003ca href\u003d\"http://in.f83.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To\u003deditor@mizzima.com&YY\u003d99609&y5beta\u003dyes&y5beta\u003dyes&order\u003ddown&sort\u003ddate&pos\u003d0&view\u003da&head\u003db\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"\>\n\u003cfont color\u003d\"#003399\"\>editor@mizzima.com\u003c/font\>\u003c/a\> or \u003ca href\u003d\"http://in.f83.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To\u003dmizzima@hotmail.com&YY\u003d99609&y5beta\u003dyes&y5beta\u003dyes&order\u003ddown&sort\u003ddate&pos\u003d0&view\u003da&head\u003db\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"\>\n\u003cfont color\u003d\"#003399\"\>mizzima@hotmail.com\u003c/font\>\u003c/a\>.\u003cbr\>\u003cbr\>\u003cbr\>CAR FOR SALE\u003cbr\>\u003cbr\>Classic White Ambassador Car\u003cbr\>Hindustan Motors Series: 1800 MPFI Petrol with Isuzu Engine\u003cbr\>Excellent Condition. Currently Has Blue Diplomatic Plates\n\u003cbr\>Selling Price: 1.5 Lakh\u003cbr\>Available end of September, Photos Attached\u003cbr\>Contact owner, Meital Rusdia\u003cbr\>B-26 Nizamuddin East, 1st Floor, New Delhi 110013\u003cbr\>+91 98 181 05861\u003cbr\>Communication Officer, United Nations Children's Fund\n\u003cbr\>India Country Office, UNICEF House, 73 Lodi Estate, New Delhi, 1100 003\u003cbr\>Office: +91 11 24606237 Fax: +91 11 2460621\u003cbr\>\u003cbr\>\u003cbr\>\n",0]
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theposition, a CV, and two references to Soe Myint, Editor In-Chief,editor@mizzima.com or mizzima@hotmail.com.

Freelance jobsCompany

: Kaulkin Ginsberg Position: Steady B-to-B Freelance Job Location: Anywhere, Telecommute Job Status: Freelance Salary: Negotiable Ad Expires: September 5, 2007 Job ID: 810893 Description:Online trade publication is looking for a freelance business reporter to contribute stories on a continuing basis. InsideARM.com is the leading daily covering the growing business of debt and accounts receivables management. Business and finance reporting experience preferred. Reporter will produce three or more stories a week from in-depth features to spot news briefs. Position could become full time as beat system evolves. Send resume and three writing samples to jobs@kaulkin.com with the heading "freelance" in the subject line.

delete

Boeing sees $70 bn market in Russia & CIS

Boeing, one of the world largest aircraft maker has said in annual forecast, that Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) will require 1,060 new airplanes worth about $70 billion over the next 20 years.

Airplanes in the Boeing 737 size range will account for 44 percent of all commercial jetliners delivered to Russian and CIS airlines during the next 20 years, amounting to 470 units valued at $30 billion.

Eleven percent -- or 110 units at a value of $20 billion -- will be twin-aisle airplanes like the Boeing 777 and 787.

Forty-three percent will be smaller regional jets while airplanes of the Boeing 747 size or larger will comprise 2 percent of the market.

As smaller airplanes such as the Next-Generation 737, the 777 and the 787 are much more fuel efficient thanks to advanced technologies and innovation, they are able to fly longer distances with fewer passengers than a 747 and still remain profitable for the airlines that operate them.

The Next-Generation 737 will help airlines meet demand for shorter, more direct routes, and the all-new fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner will provide needed capacity for longer-range direct flights.

Worldwide, Boeing estimates the fleet will require 28,600 new jets by 2026 worth about $2.8 trillion. The Boeing market forecast is widely regarded as the most comprehensive and respected analysis of the commercial aviation market.

CSA numeruno in on-time record in Europe

Prague, 22 August 2007 : Czech Airlines (CSA) was the carrier with the best on-time record in Europe in the first half of the 2007.

The Airline ranked first in departure punctuality, among the 26 most significant airlines associated in the Association of European Airlines (AEA).

CSA operated nearly 36,350 flights in the first half of the year, on scheduled routes from Prague and foreign destinations. In its summer schedule, CSA offers connections to 104 destinations in 44 countries.

Kingfisher Airlines announces Global Tennis Tournament in Mumbai

Vijay Mallya addressing the media

Kingfisher Airlines announces Global Tennis Tournament in Mumbai

India's fastest growing airlin, Kingfisher Airlines have announced the second edition of Kingfisher Airline Open from sept 24 to sept 30. Addressing the media, Chairman and MD of Kingfisher said, " this year we have Marat Safin, Lleyton Hewitt, Maros Baghdatis and other tennis players.

Mahesh Bhupati's father BC Bhupati was also present at the press breifing.

Bhupati, Vijay Mallya and Gaurav Natekar, Tournament Director at the event

Kapil Sacked

Kapil Dev sacked as NCA chairman

script

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Duration: 6 months

Eligibility
Graduation in any stream. Final year students can join in
morning, evening or weekend batches.

Potential
For those who get through successfully, we assure placement in
IT companies in Software and Service sectors, News media and
Content management fi rms in the salary range of Rs. 8000 – Rs.
15,000 per month. Those with higher qualifi cations, work experience and
greater expertise may get initial salaries even above Rs. 20,000.

NICAT
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NICAT

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Gulf Air starts World Wide Call Centre

The first batch of Gulf Air Bahrain Call Centre agents with Mahmood Al Kooheji (sitting, third from left), Bjorn Naf (sitting, second from right)

and Lee Shave (standing, extreme left).

One of the twelve candidates receiving their training course completion certificate from Kooheji in the presence of Bjorn Naf.

A call centre agent explaining reservation procedures to Bjorn Naf.

In further enhancing its customer service standards, Gulf Air inaugurated its World Wide Call Centre (WWCC) in Bahrain on August 18.

Gulf Air chairman of the board of directors Mahmood Al Kooheji inaugurated the centre by inducting the first batch of 12 Bahraini call centre agents into service after training, at its Muharraq headquarters.

The Call Centre will function from 1pm to 9 pm Sunday to Thursday and Bahrain customers can get their travel-related service over the phone by dialling 17335777. Calls to this number, made before and after this duration and on Fridays and Saturdays, will continue to be served by the World Wide Centre in Muscat.

“Gulf Air is keen on providing the best possible service to its customers whether it is on the ground or in the air,” said Gulf Air executive vice president marketing and sales Lee Shave.

“We received over 150 applications from within Gulf Air and outside in response to an announcement out of which 12 best candidates were selected using rigorous recruitment procedures. Another 30 candidates have been recruited, who will be joining duty after the current training,” Mr. Shave concluded.

Before taking up their jobs, the candidates were given an intensive training programme on Gulf Air’s SABRE reservation system and procedures, telephone and booking techniques, efficient handling of customers and other travel-related enquiries.

“The inauguration of call centre in Bahrain is a significant development as part of our business philosophy and objectives,” said Gulf Air acting president and chief executive Bjorn Naf.

“Operating from our headquarters, we will now be able to manage customer enquiries better and provide our customers the service they truly deserve.”

Air India's Boeing 777-200 LR First Class seat

nehulj

Air India's Boeing 777-200 LR

First Class seat at display

बोएंग ७७७-२०० LR

आ व्यू औफ़ बोएंग ७७७-२०० LR

blogging

Blogging Fusion

technorati

paid to blog

Entry fee for neighbouring country tourists at monuments slashed

Visitors from the SAARC and BIMSTEC countries would be charged the same rates of the entry fee to ticketed monuments as Indian citizens, Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni announced। Addressing the MPs of the Consultative Committee attached to her ministry, she said though the debate on charging a uniform entry fee from other foreign visitors was still on, there was a strong point in continuing with the present differential rate of tickets। The entry fee for visitors from the SAARC and BIMSTEC countries has been put on par with Indian citizens as an acknowledgement of the common heritage between India and its neighbouring countries and promotion of regional solidarity. Giving details of plan expenditure on restoration and maintenance of monuments, Soni said the 11th Five-Year Plan (2007-12) proposals, amounting to Rs.9.33 bn, were more than three times the provisions during the earlier plan. A substantial amount of these allocations would be spent on making monuments more attractive through programmes like Light and Sound shows at the World Heritage Sites, establishment of tourist facilities and better signage. Those who attended the meeting included Chander Kumar, N.K.S. Chauhan, Pankaj Chowdhary, Parasnath Yadav, Chandan Mitra, Barun Mukherjee and Surendra Motilal Patel.

Etihad Airways eyes more expansion in India

Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is looking at expanding its operations to India in the next few years।

James Hogan, chief executive of Etihad Airways, said India is one of their key global markets।"Currently, Etihad flies to four Indian destinations - Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram - and we would like to double this in the next few years in order to satisfy the huge demand from Indian customers across Etihad's flight network that includes Britain, Canada and South Africa," Hogan said।It flies to a total of 44 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia।The airline started its services to Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram last month, and since then passenger figures on both the routes have averaged more than 90 percent across economy and business class।Etihad, which also operates daily flights to Delhi and Mumbai, plans to start flight services to Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad, besides increasing its frequency into the two Kerala airports.In a related development, Etihad was awarded four industry accolades recognising the airline's progressive web strategy, which has been enabled by Indian IT major Infosys Technologies.

Spicejet pilots to fly Oman Air

Oman Air has signed a strategic agreement with SpiceJet to provide the national airline of Oman with well trained pilots।

Oman Air officials were recently in India in search of a partner to provide the airline with well-trained pilots for Boeing 737।

A statement issued by Oman Air said, SpiceJet pilots would fly with Oman Air on contract for a period of one year until Oman's trainee pilots are ready to take to the skies।

"This would provide Spicejet pilots with international exposure and rich flying experience through Oman Air's extensive network. The first batch of six first officers of Spicejet would reach Muscat soon," the company said.

GoAir to invest in cargo, engineering

GoAir, India’s private airline announced that the group has decided to looks at investments in GoEngineering, GoGround Services, GoCargo and several other Investments। Jeh Wadia would continue to be the Managing Director as part of GoAir’s overall business strategy and expansion plans. The future CEO will report directly to the Managing Director and would pilot the airlines day-to-day business operations.

Jeh Wadia, managing director of GoAir said, “As part of our expansion and business plans, GoAir is currently planning to expand its fleet size to 18 by 2009 and 35 by 2011 that would be fully funded internally। This is a conservative plan and will be revised to more aggressive growth once the industry shows signs of improvement.”

Currently, GoAir operates 396 weekly flights to 11 airports across the country and has had the highest loads for the months January, February, March, April, May and June (90 per cent). It also has the highest market share per aircraft in the industry.

Kingfisher Airlines launches direct flights between Mumbai and Bhuj

Kingfisher Airlines, India’s fastest growing private airline announced the launch of direct flights from Mumbai to Bhuj। Kingfisher Airlines will service the sector four times a week at very convenient times for air travellers.

With the launch of this service, Kingfisher Airlines now connects 30 cities with 189 flights a day on the wings of a fleet of 30 brand new aircraft।

Commenting on this, Vijay Mallya, Chairman and CEO, Kingfisher Airlines said, “ Through the launch of this new route, Kingfisher Airlines reaffirms its commitment toward addressing the needs of its guests by providing connectivity between the commercial capital of the country and other cities that are rapidly emerging as centres of economic activity।”

Bhuj is also a key destination for merchant vessel sailors। The new service of Kingfisher Airlines between Mumbai and Bhuj will also benefit all the shipping personnel who need to travel to major Gujarat ports frequently.

Adds Manoj Chacko, GM, global sales, Kingfisher Airlines, “All our efforts are focused on offering our guests enhanced convenience in terms of connectivity and service। The introduction of service between Mumbai and Bhuj is a step toward that. With this new route, Kingfisher Airlines will provide conveniently timed flights not only for air travelers flying to Bhuj, but greatly improved air connectivity to the entire region."

Bhuj, the major town of Kutch, is an old walled city. There are walls within walls, attractive gateways, old palaces with intricately carved wooden pavilions, and striking, brightly decorated Hindu temples. Note: Fares shown are one-way and are given in Indian Rupees. Taxes @ Rs. 750 per ticket are extra.

Finnair begins flights to Mumbai

Finnish national carrier, Finnair began a direct flight from Helsinki to the commercial capital of India, its second destination in the country। It will operate five times a week with an Airbus A-340 aircraft।Finnair began its operations from New Delhi on Oct 31, 2006, and has been flying to the national capital every day since May 19।"The new route also opens numerous possibilities to tourist traffic from Europe to India। Near Mumbai there are several interesting destinations for travellers, for example Goa, known for its magnificent beaches, and the culturally rich state of Kerala," a Finnair statement said।"Apart from Mumbai, this flight would be very convenient for passengers from neighbouring cities like Pune and Ahmedabad। The Mumbai route also gives Finnair more onward connections to destinations all over India," said Taina Törnström, Finnair director for the Indian subcontinent. "Finnair is strengthening its partnerships with Indian air carriers to make these connections as smooth as possible," she added.The flights to Mumbai are part of Finnair's Asian strategy. "In response to a strong demand from the Asian market, the number of weekly flights to India has increased from seven to 12. Flights to other Finnair destinations in Asia have also been continuously increased," the airline said.Besides New Delhi and Mumbai, Finnair now flies to eight other destinations in Asia: Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong in China; Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya in Japan; and Bangkok in Thailand.

Kingfisher launches aviation training academy

Kingfisher Training Academy, the subsidiary of Kingfisher Airlines was inaugurated by Dr Vijay Mallya, chairman and CEO of the company, in Mumbai recently.

Speaking after the inauguration, Mallya said, “we will be giving training to the candidates to work in the modern world, we will provide them exposure of high quality service. The students in this academy will be versed with multi field skills”.

“When we take recruit for our company from other institutes, we have to train them again to fill them in. There is a gap in their training what they get from their institute. We are looking for trained people and opening this academy makes sense for us”.

“We have no tie-up with any university. I am not aware of any university other than some hotel management institutes where students just get degrees. They need exposure of the field”.

Kingfisher has spent more than Rs 10 crore for this new venture and we will be opening 10 more branches in the coming year, including metro cities and other cities will be our target, Mallya said.

More than 2000 students will pass out every year from this academy. There will be a new batch every months. The course will be completed in six months and the fees will be Rs 1 lakh. Already, 100 students enrolled with us for starting session, said Rajesh Verma, head of the Kingfisher Training Academy.

The company claimed to have faculty members are form the Raj group of hotels, Jet Airways and many other top class people from the hospitality industry.

Courses offered at the institute are

• An Image Makeover• The Ground Personnel• Cabin Crew In-flight Service • Hospitality in Hotel Industry

For placement, Kingfisher academy has said that companies across service industry verticals such as domestic and international airlines and aviation companies, leading hotel chains, retail and other customer care management services have already commenced talks with them.

UB group to start aviation varsity, says Mallya

The Kingfisher Airlines, country’s fast growing private airlines will be starting its Aviation University at Nerul, the outskirts of Mumbai by the end of 2008.

This was disclosed by Dr Vijay Mallya, Chairman and CEO of Kingfisher Airlines while inaugurating the new Kingfisher training institute in Mumbai recently.

Mallya said, his company will be investing more than Rs 200 crore in this new university. The aviation university will house the latest technology in flight training, including simulator and other areas of specifications.

Today, India needs more skilled manpower to cater to the domestic needs, as due to unskilled man power we have to train them again and these cause us monetary losses. The flying schools such as Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi in Rai Bareli and other institutes in Baramati and Gondia are not sufficient to meet the demands of the domestic aviation industry.

Speaking on the ticket fares, he said, today, many airlines have dropped the ticket fares, especially one, without naming it.

“We have maintained our deals, but other have not, hopefully we see a good scope for our company in future. Demand for better quality and service is on our side and I see Aviation has a great future,” Mallya stressed.

Celebrate festivals with GoAir

GoAir, India's private air carrier announced its special GoCelebrate ऑफर।

GoCelebrate offer has prices starting at Rs 225/- for short haul flights between Mumbai – Goa, Ahmedabad - Delhi and Rs 525/- for long haul flights like Mumbai – Delhi, Mumbai – Jaipur, Bengalooru - Mumbai, Mumbai – Chennai। To add consumer delight more than 20,000 tickets at Rs 0/- fare for flights between Mumbai – Ahmedabad, Delhi – Jaipur, Bangalore – Cochin, Hyderabad – Chennai and Srinagar – Jammu would also be available। The offer for booking tickets will be valid from 21st May to 25th May '07 for travel between July to September 2007 Log on to goair.in to avail the offer.

Air Deccan tie-up with Frankfinn for cabin crew

Mumbai, April 4: In order to cope up with booming aviation market in India and shortage of skilled manpower in airlines companies have enabled Air Deccan to signed an exclusive tie up with Frankfinn to provide them more than 400 cabin crew per year to meet the demand.

The tie up will provide Air Deccan with professionals in the industry. It will also provide easy availability of skilled cabin crew, keeping in mind the acute shortage of trained human resource in this sector. The tie-up was announced by KS Kohli, Chairman, Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training and Captain GR Gopinath, Managing Director of Air Deccan at Mumbai.

Speaking on the occasion, KS Kohli said, “This is the first time in the history of Indian aviation that the company will recruit students only from Frankfinn and not from other aviation institute. Students will sign a two year contract with Air Deccan and which is extendable with their performance.”

Citing Frankfinn entry in the Limca Book of records, Kohli said, intake of Frankfinn is eight times higher than in any other institute in the country. So far in India no institute is providing in flight training, they are just giving students a half an hour ride on the plane.

“We are also planning to open a pilot training institute in the near future, but it will be too early to reveal it. We are building a hotel management institute in Goa, every things are finalised”, Kohli added.

To a question from where Air Deccan will get pilots and engineers, GS Gopinath, MD of Air Deccan said, “we are in talks with some aviation institute”.

Coming heavily on the government, Gopinath said, “poor infrastructure in playing a negative role in the development of aviation in our country. Government had never seen aviation as an infrastructure, but as a peripheral activity. We need competition among airports.”

“Air Deccan and Frankfinn will provide platform to hundreds of new aspirants who live in small towns and cities and want to pursue their career in aviation industry”, Gopinath added.

At the current pace Indian aviation industry would require 7500 to 8000 cabin crew per year. Air Deccan is the second largest airline in India with the market share of 21.60 per cent and has the largest network in terms of reach.

According to International Air Transport Association (IATA), by 2010 the travel within Asia will become the largest with 678 million passengers compared to 552 million in the US domestic market. The Center for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) has confirmed that the market share for the low cost airlines in India will reach 70 per cent by 2010 making it one of the world’s leading low cost carriers in terms of total market penetration.

A-I plane makes emergency landing at Delhi airport

New Delhi, April 9 2007

Air India flight AI-349 Shanghai-Bangkok-Delhi-Mumbai made an emergency landing in Delhi on April 9, 2007 at 6:35 am, due to a technical snag in the locking system of the front landing gear. The aircraft landed safely with all the passengers onboard.

In the press release issued by Air India said, the commander used all emergency procedures as per the safety manual and brought the aircraft to a halt on the run way। The passengers were disembarked using the step ladder. However, when the aircraft was being towed away from the runway to a remote bay for repair through a taxi track, the nose gear capsized as a result of which further operations were affected.

However, 183 passengers on board were reported to be safe and de-boarded the plane after being in the aircraft for about an hour। The main runway, which is closed, is cleared.

The 134 Mumbai bound passengers from Delhi, are being accommodated on an Indian Airlines flight, which is depart at 12:30 pm from the domestic terminal। The remaining 57 passengers, already aboard AI-349, have been given the option to board the Mumbai bound Indian Airlines flight along with the other passengers, without their baggage. Their baggage would be delivered directly at the Mumbai airport.

Meanwhile Air India officials along with DGCA experts is investigating the incident and the aircraft is being towed to a safer place for repair by using a recovery kit।

Airport runway is blocked temporarily as a precautionary safety measure। The lights have been installed by the Airport authorities on the run way to demarcate the area which cannot be used. The run way is now open partially, A-I release adds.

The Air India staff at Delhi are taking all measures to assist the passengers and deeply regrets the inconvenience caused.

DBMA’s first batch leaves for UAE

The first batch of students from Don Bosco Maritimes Academy (DBMA), Mumbai was passed out and they will join Lamprell plc, a UAE-based company having its primary facilities in Sharjah and Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai.

The valedictory function was organised by Don Bosco Maritimes Academy with Lamprell, on March 17 at the college campus at Kurla, Mumbai.


James Henderson, Training Adivsor in India for Lamprell Plc speaking to Employment & NRI Times said: “In the past, we have to recruit form the recruitment and manpower consultant, but we used to get unskilled labour. With this collaboration with Don Bosco, now we get skilled labour, who knows the job and we can start from day one as soon as we employ them.

“We are looking forward for the first batch to join in the next four weeks and the second batch in the next three months,” James revealed.

Explaining why Lamprell selected Don Bosco as its partner, Justin Taylor, Operations manager, Lamprell Sharjah, said: “The academy has a history of technical training, ITI background, best faculty, the ratio of 1:1, that means one instructor for one student, proper public transport connectivity, good instructor, value of each subject they teach, syllabus it covers, we got the overall package that we were searching from an institute to offer us.

Speaking at the function, Prasad T, Chief Instructor said: “the performance will give the proof what you (students) have learned here. Training adults is very difficult, students are not learning, but interacting. They should develop their own skills while they are interacting.

“For one candidate, one instructor is what we have adopted to train them. Whatever you have learnt should be put for further development.” Prasad added.

“The knowledge they have acquired has given them brightness on your face and body, use your organisation to develop your skills. You should not remain just satisfied in acquiring knowledge, Parsad said addressing the gathering.

Technical persons should not worry about marks they have scored in their written exam, whether they get 35 per cent is not the problem, but they should work for 100 per cent and give this in the first attempt.

Lamprell plc based in the UAE and listed on London AIM, alternative stock exchange, it is a leading provider of specialist engineering services to the international oil and gas industry and having more than 3000 people working in their organisation.

Its area of operation is to operate a full service jackup rig refurbishment facility in Sharjah and a modern, well equipped fabrication facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai, including Croatia.

Established in 1998 with the objective of training prospective and serving seagoing personnel, as per the STCW Convention of International Maritime Organization (IMO). Don Bosco Maritime Academy is recognised as one of the leading maritime training academies with special focus on workshop and practical training.

The academy has won an ISO 9001:2000 certification for this course from Indian Register Quality Systems. The institute has an active liaison with several shipping companies, dry docks, new constructions in the offshore and onshore industries, catering to services, processes and construction. It also conducts varied training programmes and skill assessment tests for engineers and technicians of these companies.

Training Programme
The ten week training was started on January 3, 2007 and was completed on March 17, 2007. The Academy intends to train more than 200 traniees in one year. The cost of the entire traning is borne by Lamprell PLc. On completion, the candidate will be absorbed by Lamprell for their service in UAE.
Candidate with ITI or NCVT qualification in any trade with some industrial experience is preferred, he/she should have at least SSC cleared with Math as one subject, with English and science as additional subject.