Air India preferred brand for the new combined entity: adviser

New Delhi, Apr 5 (UNI) The adviser to the government on the merger of national carriers Air India and Indian, after detailed analysis, has recommended that Air India should be retained as the preferred brand of the new combined entity.

''After a thorough analysis and market survey, Accenture wants to continue with the brand Air India as it appears like a brand recall,'' official sources said today adding that the decision would be taken within the next 10-12 days.

Discussions are on for appointing a new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the combined entity, they said ruling out the possibility of a new CMD from outside immediately.

They also said the three-year ban on private sector Indian carriers flying to the Gulf region ending on December 31, 2007 may not be extended.

The advisor after going through various parameters are of the opinion to continue with the brand Air India and with the same mascot of 'Maharaja', the sources said adding that there seems to be a consensus on Air India to be a preferred brand and retaining the 'Orange' colour of Indian.

They said E-sops for the employees are likely after the formation of the new company and once it is registered in the bourses.

Regarding the new airport at Navi Mumbai, a cabinet note has been moved and an in-principle approval is to be given by the Cabinet for the same, they said adding there is a difficult situation in Mumbai as the state government is not able to provide the kind of support needed.

The government is keen for a international airport at Port Blair and a note has been moved in this direction.

Moreover, the Tamil Nadu government has offered an additional 700-800 acres of land for expanding the Chennai airport, they said.

A total of 35 airports will be upgraded by 2008-09 and night landing facilities will also be provided in all the airports during this period, they said.

UNI