Aircraft, pilots now come cheap

Low fares, high capital costs and high pilot salaries have driven most Indian carriers into the red. The bankruptcy cases abroad, industry insiders said, are a good opportunity for them to reduce their losses with some inexpensive acquisitions.

GoAir is negotiating to acquire around 20 Airbus aircraft from these airlines at 20 per cent below listed rates. The Wadia family-promoted carrier is also looking to buy the slots for new aircraft ordered by the bankrupt carriers.

Budget carrier SpiceJet has decided to hire at least ten flight commanders from these airlines, who suddenly find themselves with no work to do.

Over the last two months, three US airlines