A revival package for debt-ridden national carrier Air India has been nearly finalised and will be announced this month, said Civil Aviation Secretary RN Choubey on Wednesday.
Hyderabad:
There was no issue with regard to the package, Choubey said, talking to reporters after inaugurating an interim international departures terminal at the Hyderabad International Airport.
He said the government was keeping a watch on the airline sector in general as airlines were not doing well for the last two quarters due to increase in oil prices and rupee depreciation.
The official said the government would extend all help to airlines. “We are working on various measures to support the airline sector in general.
“The intention is to bring down the cost of operations because leased rentals have gone up on account of depreciation of rupee and the fuel prices have also increased,” Choubey said.
To a query, he said Jet Airways had not asked for specific help from the government.
On Air India, he said the disinvestment move did not receive the required interest from prospective bidders. “While we remain committed to disinvestment of Air India, that will be possible once macro economic conditions become favourable. The oil prices have to go down and rupee exchange rate has to improve.”
The official said the government by providing all support to Air India would ensure that it remains a viable entity.
“At the same time we expect Air India to improve its efficiency and operational capability,” he added.
AirAsia India appoints Sunil Bhaskaran as CEO & MD
AirAsia India appointed Sunil Bhaskaran as the CEO and MD with effect from November 15, 2018 to oversee the next phase of expansion and growth of the company. Bhaskaran is currently VP, Corporate Services at Tata Steel. He has over three decades of experience in the fields of manufacturing, export and commercial operations with the Tata group.
S Ramadorai, Chairman, AirAsia India, said, “With India’s aviation sector growing at a rapid pace, Bhaskaran’s extensive experience, ability to drive performance and work seamlessly with all stakeholders will be a great asset for AirAsia India.” AirAsia India has seen several high-profile exits in recent months and has been without a CEO for nearly six months.
Bhaskaran’s appointment comes at a time when the airline and some of its executives are being investigated for alleged wrongdoing. Indian police in May filed a case against AirAsia Group, CEO Tony Fernandes and its domestic entity AirAsia India, over allegations of corruption and breaking rules in obtaining a flying licence.