Mumbai: A prospective deal between Jet Airways and Etihad Airways is making Air India hopeful of emerging as the favourite to partner the largest airline grouping, Star Alliance Services GmbH, which has so far shunned Middle-Eastern carriers, a senior AI executive said.
In an interaction with ET, Air India CMD Rohit Nandan, who is currently leading the turnaround of India's national airline, argued that it gives them unwitting opportunities such as an upper hand to strike a deal with Star Alliance.
He admitted, however, that the Jet-Etihad alliance could pose a major challenge for AI's overseas operations. "Jet's discussions for a strategic alliance with Etihad will help Air India's chances (for Star Alliance membership).
We are in continuous dialogue with Star Alliance and joining the Alliance is in our interest. Star Alliance did deviate in between for a short while (when Jet formally requested membership) but they would now see Air India more favourably," Nandan told ET.
06/12/12 Manisha Singhal & Satish John/Economic Times
