As Kingisher Airlines did not pay its fees to airports in India, the Airports Authority of India has decided to ground all aircraft of the embattled carrier until it pays. The airline also faces the discontent of its employees who have not been paid…
MUMBAI – Looking at Kingfisher’s evolution is a little bit like watching a rather badly run soap opera on television. The once mightly Indian carrier has been fighting now for over six months for its survival. But events seem to get even worst for the Indian carrier. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has decided that Kingfisher Airlines will not be allowed to resume flights till it clears a debt in landing fees and parking of US$ 58 million, according to a report from the Indian Economic Times. AAI’s threat will apply to private airports too as it provides air traffic control and without that clearance pilots can’t even start aircraft engines. AAI, decision has been endorsed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
This si however not the only trouble that faces the carrier. Before being able to resume its activity, Kingfisher will need to find a compromise with its unpaid workers who have been on strike for a few weeks; to lift a partial lockout from the Civil Aviation (DGCA) which is enforced until October 20 (it forces Kingfisher to suspend any ticket sale) and then get a clearance from the same Indian Civil Aviation (DGCA). A criminal case has been filed in which Vijay Mallya, Chairman of Kingfisher Airlines has sought exemption from personal appearance.
Explaining the reason for the no-fly decision, AAI sources said, “For the remaining dues, we are filing civil suits. But given the serial of discharge our payment would be way down as banks that have to recover almost US$ 190 million would be top priority, which means we may never get anything. So, if Kingfisher is able to fly again by clearing the current three hurdles, we will allow them to actually operate aircraft only when they clear our dues. That seems to be the only hope of getting some money out of the airline”.
Kingfisher is threatened to lose its slots at major Indian metropolis airports if it cannot resume services on October 20.
Luc Citrinot a French national is a freelance journalist and consultant in tourism and air transport with over 20 years experience. Based in Paris and Bangkok, he works for various travel and air transport trade publications in Europe and Asia.
