Go First delays flight restart again

Cash-strapped airline Go First has been forced to extend its fleet grounding for a third time.

It announced the suspension of all flights will continue until at least June 4, 2023.

It cites ‘operational reasons; although the civil aviation ministry will not allow it to relaunch flights until it undergoes an operational audit.

It previously announced expected restart dates twice.

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused by these flight cancellations,” the airline said.

Go First filed for bankruptcy proceedings early this month, blaming Pratt & Whitney aircraft engine issues with its Airbus jets.

The bankruptcy protection dashed the hopes of foreign aircraft lessors which have been trying to repossess aircraft.

The National Company Law Tribunal granted a moratorium on Go First’s assets and leases while its financial position is assessed.

Air regulator the DGCA will assess a preparedness plan from the airline before it can resume flights.

“DGCA will be conducting an audit to check our preparedness.

Once approved by the regulator, we would be soon commencing operations,” the airline said before it extended the grounding.

The regulator will look at whether Go First can ‘operate in a safe, efficient and reliable manner,’ under existing aviation rules.

Go First blamed its financial plight on Pratt & Whitney engine issues although P&W rejected this.

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