The Hindu Business Line : MDLR Airlines to start operations soon

SET TO TAKE OFF: Mr Gopal Kumar Goyal, Chairman, MDLR Airlines, at a press conference to announce the launch of the airline in the Capital on Saturday. — Kamal Narang

New Delhi , Aug. 12

The Gurgoan-based MDLR group has announced the launch of a new passenger airline - MDLR Airlines.

Addressing a press conference here on Saturday, the Group Chairman, Mr Gopal Kumar Goyal, said that the airline would start operating with two 70-seater aircraft leased from British Aerospace.

"The two BAE RJ-70 aircraft would be based in Chandigarh and initially be used to operate regular flights in north India. We have worked out a lease-purchase agreement for the two aircraft and plan to have a fleet of five aircraft shortly. We hope to start operating within the next 90 days," said Mr Goyal.

The airline, that was granted a no objection certificate by the Government on August 1 this year, would offer both business and economy class seating.

"We are not a low-cost airline. However, the fares charged by us will be very competitive," Mr Goyal added.

The airline also plans to acquire five MI-172 helicopters capable of seating 27 passengers.