Airports Authority of India (AAI) has asked for government approval to spend 200 billion rupees ($4.12 billion) in the next five years to modernize and stimulate traffic at airports across the country.

The senior flight attendant, at the gate for an early morning Air India flight to Mumbai, stood with hands folded, eyes cast downward, the traditional welcome smile missing. Anxiety over delayed monthly salaries and their very existence in the state-run airline was evident on the faces of most of the crewmembers—anger and frustration evident in their responses to passenger requests.

Indian utility vehicle maker Mahindra Group has successfully test flown its C-NM5 five-seat piston-powered aircraft, marking a milestone in the nation’s first public-private aircraft development venture. The all-metal airplane is powered by a Lycoming IO-540 engine and features a non retractable landing gear and a spacious cabin with large access doors. According to Mahindra officials, the aircraft will cost around $400,000.