Human Interest

IndiGo Pilot’s Heartfelt In-Flight Announcement Amid Travel Chaos


In the midst of ongoing flight disruptions, an IndiGo pilot’s compassionate in-flight message has captured widespread attention online. The video, shared by Pradeep Krishnan, shows the pilot addressing passengers directly, expressing empathy for the inconvenience caused by flight delays.

The pilot said, “I am sorry! I completely get how tough it is when a flight causes you to miss something important. I promise you, we’re not on strike. As pilots, we’re trying our best, and we want to go home too.”

He acknowledged the stress passengers were experiencing and highlighted the challenges faced by airline staff. “A lot has been happening in the last few days, and my heart goes out to everyone who’s stuck or stranded. Our flight into Coimbatore was delayed too, and I’ve seen all the videos of people getting upset and angry. But I just want to appreciate my passengers flying into Coimbatore. They were so patient and supportive,” the pilot added.

In his Instagram post, the pilot also urged travelers to show patience and understanding towards ground staff, who are working tirelessly to manage the situation. “Please be kind to our ground staff. They are trying their best to get you home,” he wrote, ending with a message of hope that the airline team will bounce back soon.

This moment of honesty and empathy has resonated with travelers and social media users alike, highlighting the human side of aviation and the challenges faced by airline crews during operational disruptions.

Travel

Goa International Airport, Dabolim to Celebrate ‘Yatri Sewa Diwas 2025’ with Passenger-Centric Initiatives


Goa International Airport, Dabolim, will join the nationwide observance of ‘Yatri Sewa Diwas 2025’ on 17th September, reaffirming its commitment to passenger convenience, cultural integration, and community engagement.

Handling nearly 7.5 million passengers annually, the airport is jointly managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Indian Navy. Known for its safety standards, operational efficiency, and traveler-friendly services, Goa Airport continues to innovate for both domestic and international flyers.

Highlights of Yatri Sewa Diwas 2025:

  • 🌸 Traditional Welcome: Arrival passengers greeted with Tika for a warm Goan touch.
  • 🌱 Tree Plantation Drive: Senior citizen passengers participating in an eco-friendly initiative.
  • 🎶 Goan Folk Dances: Cultural showcases at the arrival hall during peak hours.
  • 🎨 Painting Competitions: Engaging child passengers and Kendriya Vidyalaya students with themes ‘Save Environment’ and ‘Viman Yatra’.
  • 📸 Photo Booths: Selfie zones at arrivals and departures for lasting memories.
  • 🩸 Blood Donation Camp: Organized for staff with the Government District Hospital.
  • 🩺 Free Health Check-Up Desk: Managed by Manipal Hospitals for passengers.
  • 👀 Free Eye Check-Up for Taxi Drivers: In coordination with Victor Hospital.
  • 🎓 Career Guidance Programme: At Kendriya Vidyalaya-1, focused on aviation sector opportunities.
  • 📝 Passenger Feedback Drive: Pamphlets distributed to collect valuable insights for further service enhancement.

The Airport Director stated:

“The observance of Yatri Sewa Diwas is a testament to our sustained focus on passenger facilitation and our responsibility to local communities. These initiatives underscore our holistic approach to service excellence and community involvement.”

Goa International Airport invites all passengers, students, and community members to participate and celebrate this day, reflecting its ongoing mission to elevate travel experiences and strengthen passenger engagement.

Events in Goa

Chef Saurabh Puri Launches Weekly Culinary Masterclass Series at Goa Dabolim Airport


Dabolim, Goa – August 21, 2025: In a unique blend of hospitality and gastronomy, Goa Dabolim Airport today launched its first-ever Culinary Masterclass Series, hosted in collaboration with Travel Food Services (TFS) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The inaugural session, held in the airport’s premium lounge, featured celebrated Executive Chef Saurabh Puri and set the tone for a weekly Thursday tradition of culinary exploration.

The session began with a warm welcome by Mr. C. George Varghese, Airport Director, in the gracious presence of senior AAI leadership, officials from BCAS, CISF, and distinguished guests. Chef Puri, known for his mastery of Italian and Continental cuisine, engaged guests and passengers with a live cooking demonstration that combined expert techniques with vibrant Goan and Indian flavours.

Children, families, and travellers joined the session, many of whom expressed surprise and delight at being able to participate in such an interactive experience while awaiting their flights. From plating tips to flavour secrets, the event brought culinary inspiration straight to the terminal.

More than just a one-time showcase, this event marks the launch of a recurring Thursday Masterclass Series. Each week, a renowned chef will host a live session, bringing gourmet experiences directly to passengers and airport staff. The initiative is a part of AAI’s broader vision to transform airports into experiential spaces, enriching time spent before boarding.

With over two decades of culinary experience, Chef Puri currently leads the kitchens at The Zuri White Sands, Goa Resort & Casino. Revered for his ability to manage large-scale culinary operations while maintaining finesse in flavour, his appearance at the airport was as insightful as it was entertaining.

“It’s an honour to be part of such a forward-thinking initiative,” Chef Puri said. “Airports are evolving, and what better way to engage travellers than through food?”

The Culinary Masterclass Series is part of a larger passenger-centric approach by AAI, one that aims to deliver comfort, culture, and creativity across all touchpoints. As travellers await their flights, they can now enjoy exclusive access to some of India’s best chefs, right at the airport.

Make sure to stop by the TFS Lounge at Goa Dabolim Airport every Thursday for new flavours, new faces, and a journey that starts with taste.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Hyderabad Airport Introduces Therapy Dogs to Comfort Passengers


Passengers at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) can now look forward to a dose of furry happiness before takeoff. The airport has officially introduced a therapy dog program aimed at reducing passenger stress and creating a more relaxing travel experience.

Under this initiative, trained therapy dogs, accompanied by professional handlers, will be stationed at designated zones within the airport. Travelers can interact with the dogs through gentle petting, playful games of fetch, or simply spending quiet moments with them.

The sessions are voluntary and fully supervised, ensuring both the comfort of passengers and the safety of the animals. The program draws on global research showing that interactions with therapy animals can help reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and boost mood — particularly helpful in bustling travel environments.

Airport officials believe this unique initiative will add warmth to the passenger experience, making RGIA stand out as a traveler-friendly and emotionally supportive hub in India’s aviation network.