IA plans to expand overseas

The state-run Indian Airlines plans to expand its international operations after leasing 12 wide-bodied aircraft for long haul operations.

"We will need to have long haul aircraft to operate to most of the international destinations," said Anil Goyal, Indian Airlines commercial director.

Indian Airlines is planning to lease over 17 aircraft over the next few months including 12 long haul aircraft to bridge the demand gap till the acquisition of the new fleet of 43 aircraft later next year.

"We expect the delivery of our new fleet in September 2006 and for the interim period we plan to lease 12 wide-body-long-haul aircraft, five Airbus 319 and few more A 320s over the next few months to meet the requirements," he said.

While the A 320s are expected to arrive on February next year onwards, the five A 319s is expected to arrive next month to be inducted for domestic operations, he said

Goyal said the airline was also planning to lease six jets and turbo-propelled aircraft like ATRs as a part of its strategy to service regional routes with lower traffic density.

The 12 wide-bodied aircraft will also be leased soon to boost the international operations. Asked about the type of aircraft for the long-haul aircraft Indian Airlines was looking at, he said "We are looking at all the options and availability of the aircraft," he added. Indian Airlines currently has a fleet size of 65 aircraft.

On the winter schedule of the carrier Goyal said, "The introduction of additional flights during the winter schedule depends on the day-to-day requirements."