British Airways, Air France, and Delta Airlines are some of the airlines
interested in obtaining a stake in Air India when it gets privatised, media
reports say. Other airlines include Emirates, Virgin and Lufthansa. In
addition, the Tatas, who owned Air India before nationalisation, are also
planning to take a share in the airline.
However, the Indian government will not allow just any foreign airline to
own a stake. The invitation for bids, posted on Air India's website, says:
"In choosing between prospective strategic partners, the Government of India
will pay due attention, inter alia, to the security requirements of the
country". Perhaps a veiled reference to Pakistan International Airlines, in
case they submit an application?!
Air India, which currently has 23 aircraft in its fleet, made a loss of US
$8.2 million in the year to March.
The deadline for submissions of interest is November 10.
- nriol.com report
We appreciate your feedback, please write to us at: feedback@nriol.com
