Be a Maharaja on board A-I

Starting July, all A-I passengers travelling first class and executive to New York and London from Delhi and Mumbai respectively will be provided with an option of a 20 minute complimentary massage on board. ‘‘The proposal is likely to be finalised in a few weeks and the in-flight massage facility will be available from July this year,’’ confirmed P K Sinha, A-I’s public relations director.

The masseurs, mostly men, have been trained by the reputed Ayurveda Kendra in Delhi. A-I has made special arrangements for the service in its executive class. A special chair will be placed in a corner of the aircraft and passengers can walk up for the service.

The oil-free massage will concentrate on your head, neck, shoulders, spine and hands. ‘‘This form of massage has a special technique whereby pressure is applied on frayed nerve-ends. It increases blood circulation and helps relax the body. It will be as effective as an oil massage,’’ said Dr Sudha K Ashokan, head of Ayurveda clinic, on contract to provide the service for a year.

‘‘The method (with oil, it is called pizhichil) relaxes muscles and is almost a sure cure for rheumatic ailments. It is used on people with spondylitis, muscular dystrophy, slip disc. It also provides relief from stress, strain and tension.’’ Dr Ashokan’s clinic has trained 12 people for the job. ‘‘We have been providing the massage service at the Maharaja lounge from the beginning of the year. It won’t be a problem once the in-flight service begins. In fact, passengers can look forward to a calming journey,’’ she said.