Speculation mounts over new India-Australia link

Speculation mounts over new India-Australia link
By admin


Australia could be on track for a second direct connection with India once Etihad Airways’ acquisition of a 24% stake in Indian carrier Jet Airways is finalised, according to reports.

The Sydney Morning Herald said two “well-placed” sources had revealed that Etihad president and chief executive James Hogan was interested in Jet Airways establishing a direct service from India to Sydney and Melbourne.

The Jet deal is currently awaiting the final green light from Indian authorities and, if approved, is expected to see Etihad hold substantial influence over the Indian carrier.

It marks the latest equity investment for the Abu Dhabi-based airline as it continues to grow its network, with Hogan last week reiterating an intention to to invest in more airlines.

“Global reach is beyond the capacity of any single airline. Progress must come through partnership,” he told the FVW tourism congress in Cologne. “We will consider more strategic partnerships if they add value.”

Air India is currently the only airline to operate direct services between Australia and India following the launch of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner service last month.

Etihad recently announced it will ramp up its own Indian presence with plans to more than triple the number of seats on its Abu Dhabi-Mumbai and Abu Dhabi-New Delhi routes from November 1.

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