New Delhi: Newly-launched airline AirAsia India — a joint venture between Malaysia-based low-cost carrier AirAsia, Tata Sons and Arun Bhatia of Telestra Tradeplace — has finally got the licence from aviation regulator DGCA to operate in India.
The new airline was granted the licence on Wednesday evening subject to the final outcome of cases opposing grant of the permit in the Delhi High Court. “We have granted the Air Operator’s Permit (AOP or flying licence) to AirAsia India, subject to the final decision of the High Court,” DGCA chief Prabhat Kumar said.
This once again heralds the Tata Group into the aviation, after the Indian government in 1953 nationalised Air India, which was initially set up by JRD Tata in 1932. The DGCA has granted the licence initially for a period of one year. After the new airline has five aircraft in its fleet, its licence will be automatically extended thereafter for another four years.
The new airline has been granted permission to operate in India under the new FDI law that allows a foreign airline to pick up stake in an Indian carrier upto 49 per cent. AirAsia chief Tony Fernandes tweeted, “History has been made today in aviation. Everything has been hard for AirAsia but we never give up. Today AirAsia India has got approval.”
He further said, “Our CEO Mittu Chandilya with air operators permit. What a battle that was. Proud day for me and all AirAsia stars.”
In his tweet, AirAsia India chief executive officer Mittu Chandilya said, “Boom! 1815hrs (IST) today AirAsia India was born. So proud of my team. Who is ready to revolutionise air travel in India?” AirAsia India, whose officials have promised to offer low airfares, would have Chennai as its hub and is expected to focus on connecting smaller towns and cities initially.
The new carrier has completed final inspections, including proving flights of its aircraft, monitored by the DGCA. These test flights went on for over 10 hours across five sectors as per the DGCA regulations.
