)
Vested interests are trying to jeopardise AirAsia's India operations, Tata Sons said in a statement today. Tata Group is partner in AirAsia India and holds 30% stake in the venture. AirAsia owns 49% and the balance is held by Telestra Tradeplace. The airline made its first flight between Bangalore-Goa today.
Tata group's statement came in response to BJP leader Subramanian Swamy's letter to Prime Minister urging him to block the launch of the airline. Amongst other things Swamy's letter said Tata group has a joint venture with Augusta Westland which has been black listed by the government for supply of military helicopters.
"Air Asia India has received all permissions from the Government of India and DGCA to start its operations, and despite various applications made, amongst others, by Dr Swamy, no injunctions have been ordered by any court restraining Air Asia India from commencing its operations. The Delhi High Court is seized of the matter and Air Asia India and Tata Sons shall honour the ruling of the court. Vested interests, inimical to free and fair competition that can benefit air travellers, are spreading canards to jeopardise the operations of Air Asia India,'' the group said in a statement.
It also said that Ratan Tata was not summoned by an Italian court as claimed by Swamy. " Mr Tata voluntarily appeared as a witness, at the request of Giuseppe Orsi, former CEO of Agusta Westland (AW). Mr. Tata's deposition before this court only related to his interactions with Mr. Orsi relating to the joint venture between the Tatas and AW and had no connection whatsoever with the supply of helicopters from AW to Government of India,'' the group said.
