The Hindu Business Line : Air India `ready to take on competition'

Reacting to the Government's announcement on Wednesday allowing domestic carriers to fly overseas except to the Gulf countries, Mr V. Thulasidas, Air India Chairman and Managing Director, said "the airline had no business to be in the business if it could not take on the competition."

He told Business Line that the policy decision has been in the offing for sometime now and has not come as a surprise. The airline has been operating in a competitive market and competing with other international carriers and even domestic carriers on certain international sectors.

The Air-India management had to look at the decision as an opportunity and position itself as an airline with experience and expertise to face the competition.

"The market is expanding and there is scope for all domestic carriers to exploit the market."

The airline has recently drawn up a vision document for its growth strategy. As part of this, Air India has already decided to go for a major fleet acquisition programme. The airline has also started services to several new destinations.

The Government is now very supportive of the airline's growth plans, he said adding, "I do not see any delay in getting approvals for fleet acquisition and other investment plans. I have received directions in this regard from the Prime Minister and the Civil Aviation Minister."