7-Aug-2013 10:30 AM
Etihad Airways sees India as fundamental for development, expects Jet deal approval in eight days
Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan, speaking at the CAPA Australia Pacific Aviation Summit, stated (07-Aug-2013) the Indian market is one of opportunity and is "fundamentally key for our development" as it is young and growing with market opportunities, but still faces problems of high levels of regulation and airport infrastructure. Going into India was an "important decision" for the carrier. The carrier is acquiring a 24% stake in Jet Airways, subject to regulatory approval. Mr Hogan is hopeful that the deal will be completed "in the next seven or eight days" following final meetings.