The Hindu Business Line : JetLite may operate on some international routes

Jet Airways is examining the option of operating its newly acquired airline JetLite on some international routes, the airline Chairman, Mr Naresh Goyal, said.

"While the primary focus of the airline will be domestic operations, we could also examine the option of flying it abroad.

With low-cost airlines from the Gulf and South-East Asia operating to India, we could also look at approaching the Government to allow JetLite to fly abroad.

"We are keeping an open mind about JetLite's international operations," Mr Goyal said, on the sidelines of the 63rd annual general meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

JetLite is the erstwhile Air Sahara that Jet Airways purchased in April this year. Work is going on not only to ensure that the entire

JetLite fleet becomes operational at the earliest, but also on rationalising the routes being operated by Jet Airways and the newly-acquired airline.

Come September

"We hope to have the entire JetLite fleet operational by September this year. We have taken a number of steps to improve the financial position of the airline. In fact, the financial health of the airline has improved in the month that we have been in charge. We will definitely break even by next year," Mr Goyal said, without divulging any details.

At least seven of the 24 aircraft in the JetLite fleet are currently undergoing scheduled maintenance work, which does not allow them to be operated.

Besides, in an effort to bring down costs and to better manage the manpower of both the airlines, the airport and engineering staff of the two airlines will remain the same, while Jet Airways will train the cabin crew of JetLite, the airline Chairman said.

"JetLite will not indulge in irrational pricing. We will have prices that make economic sense.

The airline will provide similar levels of comfort as Jet Airways and passengers can be transferred to Jet flights if the need ever arises. JetLite will offer seating in a single class configuration," Mr Goyal added.

The logo of JetLite, which would "reflect the new spirit and pride of modern India," is being finalised and would be rolled out soon, Mr Goyal said.

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