Vistara (UK, Delhi International) has secured its Air Operators Permit (AOP) from India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) having successfully completed all certification requirements last week.
The move paves the way for the Singapore Airlines-Tata Group joint venture to commence domestic operations using its fleet of two A320-200 (sl)s shortly. An additional three of the type are expected by March next year.
The carrier's entry, alongside that of AirAsia subsidiary, AirAsia India (Bengaluru International), has lead other international carriers to consider establishing their own Indian operations in partnership with local firms.
Recently, Tan Xiangdong, the president of Hainan Airlines (HU, Haikou) parent, the HNA Group, said HNA is looking to invest 'around' USD200million into India's aviation industry.
"We are looking forward to an investment of between USD150- to USD200million in the Indian aviation sector only if we get a viable domestic partner," he told India's PTI. "We are keeping a regular tab on the Indian aviation business and are stepping cautiously about making any investments. On the other side, we are taking note of the progress made by recently setup Vistara and AirAsia India."
Tan said initial investments would focus on the tour operator and hotel industry where HNA is willing to invest USD50million. Talks with potential partners have begun though have yet to result in anything tangible.
