Indian Air Force's Historic Night Landing & Air India's Operational Challenges
Published on May 2, 2025
IAF's First Night Landing on Ganga Expressway
In a landmark event, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted its first-ever night landing exercises on the newly constructed 3.5 km emergency airstrip along the Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. This operation featured advanced fighter jets such as the Rafale, Mirage, and Jaguar, as well as transport aircraft like the C-130J Super Hercules and AN-32, and MI-17 V5 helicopters.
The drills aimed to assess the expressway's viability as an alternative runway during emergencies, enhancing the IAF's rapid deployment capabilities. Notably, this is the first expressway in India equipped with night landing facilities, marking a significant advancement in the country's defense infrastructure.
- First night landing on an Indian expressway.
- Participation of advanced fighter and transport aircraft.
- Enhanced operational readiness for emergency scenarios.
Air India's Operational Challenges Amid Pakistan Airspace Closure
Following the closure of Pakistan's airspace to Indian carriers after the April 22 Kashmir attack, Air India has been compelled to reroute its long-haul flights, leading to increased fuel consumption, extended flight durations, and additional crew requirements. The airline estimates potential additional costs of up to $600 million over the next year and has sought government compensation.
To manage these operational challenges, India's aviation regulator has temporarily allowed Air India to extend maximum duty hours and rest periods for pilots and cabin crew on long-haul flights, particularly to U.S. destinations. This measure is effective from April 30 for approximately two weeks.
- Estimated $600 million in additional annual costs.
- Extended flight durations and increased fuel consumption.
- Temporary extension of crew duty hours approved.
These developments underscore the dynamic nature of India's defense and aviation sectors, highlighting both advancements in military preparedness and the challenges faced by commercial aviation amidst geopolitical tensions.
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