Vistara airline launch likely delayed
New airline startup Vistara’s proposed start next month has hit some turbulence.
The Indian joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines is likely to be delayed by at least two months while awaiting all the necessary approvals.
The first aircraft, an Airbus A-320, has yet to arrive in India and first will go to Singapore for the painting of its livery.
"Vistara still has to publish its operational and safety manuals and get them approved by the directorate general of civil aviation," a senior aviation official said.
"It’s a very dynamic process and you can’t put a date to it, but it could take two-three months," the official said.
An aviation analyst familiar with the regulatory process in India believes it will be close to the end of the year before Vistara receives final approval to fly commercially.
"Generally after a no-objection certificate, you need eight months to get an air operator permit," said Manet Paes.
"I would look at a December launch as more realistic but it will be only one or two aircraft."
While all news reports point to a likely delay in launching, the carrier would not confirm it.
"Vistara is working very closely with the regulators to ensure all requirements and processes are being complied with, and as regards market speculation, we would not like to comment on the same," a Vistara spokesperson said.
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