Air India 65% through turnaround: Aviation Minister

India's Civil Aviation Ministry has sought further budgetary support for Air India claiming that around 65% of the turnaround plan of the airline has been implemented (PTI, 15-Feb-2011). The issue of additional financial support was raised by Civil Aviation Minister Vayalar Ravi at a meeting on 16-Feb-2011 with Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, during which they discussed issues pertaining to the aviation sector in the upcoming Budget. The Minister added he has sought an addition equity infusion, stating only: "I have asked for little more money, I cannot tell you how much." Mr Ravi stated the government would help Air India but it would come "depending on how we are progressing step by step. So it means we have to earn more money and gradually reach the break-even point." On the progress of Air India's turnaround plan, Mr Ravi stated a major issue was the integration of employees and assets of Indian Airlines and Air India. He stated his "first priority is my employees. Integration is the main point. I am going to look into pricing of tickets as well as routes".

Indian Government: "We informed him that whatever decision had been taken, we have implemented almost 65% of it and something more remains to be implemented," Vayalar Ravi, Civil Aviation Minister. Source: PTI, 15-Feb-2011.