Air India Secures $120 Mn Loan from SMBC Japan for Aircraft Purchase

22 Dec 2023 CW Team

In a significant financial development, Air India concludes a $120 million loan agreement with SMBC Japan, specifically designated for the procurement of Airbus aircraft. This strategic financial arrangement underscores Air India's dedication to advancing its fleet, embracing modernisation, and fortifying its standing within the competitive landscape of the aviation sector.

The loan from SMBC Japan not only provides Air India with the necessary financial support for aircraft acquisition but also reflects the confidence of international financiers in the airline's growth prospects. The funds are expected to play a crucial role in facilitating the expansion and upgrading of Air India's fleet, contributing to operational efficiency and service enhancements.

As Air India strategically navigates the challenges and opportunities in the aviation industry, this loan agreement represents a proactive move towards reinforcing its capabilities and competitiveness. The acquisition of Airbus planes is poised to position Air India for improved performance and enhanced service offerings, aligning with broader trends in modernising fleets for optimal efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

Infrastructure Transport

06 May 2026

Pune To Build Nine Km Link Road Between Highways

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to appoint an expert to plan the development of a nine km long, 60 metre wide road from Khadi Machine chowk to Wadki chowk as an extension to the Katraj-Kondhwa road to link the Mumbai-Satara and Pune-Solapur national highways. The scheme is intended to divert heavy vehicle traffic away from the city and improve access between the two arterial routes. The project has been prioritised by the PMC and forms part of a larger set of schemes in which 19 roads have been identified for development at a combined cost of Rs 9.82 billion (bn) to address c..

Barabanki Bahraich Six Lane Highway Approved in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government has approved construction of a new six-lane highway linking Barabanki and Bahraich as part of National Highway 927, and the cabinet has cleared the project. The alignment will pass through Mustafabad and Kaiserganj and extend for about 101.5 km, creating a key corridor for local and long-distance movement. The National Highways Authority of India will oversee the work and has signalled the scheme is intended to strengthen regional connectivity and cross-border access to Nepal. The project carries an estimated total cost of Rs 69,690 million, equivalent to Rs 69.69..

Toll At Kharegaon Likely As Highway Upgrade Nears Completion

A section of the highway at Kharegaon has undergone an upgrade and is approaching completion, and authorities have indicated plans for a toll to be introduced once works finish. The project has focused on strengthening the carriageway, improving drainage and upgrading intersections to enhance safety and capacity. Officials have said the toll will be used to recover construction costs and fund ongoing maintenance. The upgrade included resurfacing of the pavement, widening of certain stretches and installation of modern signage and lighting to reduce accident risk. Contractors completed most ma..