AirAsia case: CBI questions Total Food Services Chairman Sunil Kapur's role

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday questioned Sunil Kapur, owner of Travel Food Services, in connection with alleged lobbying for AirAsia while trying to get international flying licences by manipulating policies and violation of foreign investment norms.

Kapur was employed by AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes as lobbying agent by deputy CEO Bo Lingam as a "quid pro quo" for the company.

On June 1, the Enforcement Directorate registered a case of money-laundering against AirAsia officials.

The CBI had also summoned AirAsia group CEO Fernandes for questioning on June 6 in regard to the case.

Earlier in the day, former Tata Group chief Cyrus Mistry slammed AirAsia India Director's Ramachandran Venkataraman for dragging his name in the AirAsia India scam case.

After the CBI booked Venkatraman in connection with the scam in AirAsia clearance, the latter on May 30 issued a statement refuting the allegation.

On May 29, the CBI booked Fernandes among others under the Prevention of Corruption Act for violating aviation rule to get international flying licenses. It also booked Venkatraman and DTA consultancy Pvt Ltd founder Deepak Talwar.

The investigative agency alleged that the AirAsia Group CEO lobbied with government servants for clearances, removal of existing 5/20 aviation rule and change in regulatory policies.

Under the 5/20 rule, a company needs a minimum of five years of flying experience and is also required to have 20 aircraft in their possession in order to become eligible for the license.