A380 to give Kingfisher competitive edge in long-haul flights: Mally

New Delhi, May 7 (UNI) Kingfisher Airlines said today it will gain competitive edge for long-haul flights by deploying Airbus A380, the world's most modern superjumbo that can seat 555 passengers in a three-class, double decker format.

''There're lots of people who are anxious to fly by A380,'' said its chairman and CEO Vijya Mallya. ''With customised interiors, our guests (passengers) can expect something spectacular.'' Kingfisher has ordered five A380s which it will begin receiving by December 2011. It plans to use them on non-stop routes from India to the United States, capitalising on the plane's fuel efficiency, range, passenger comfort and economics.

Mr Mallya said the operating cost of flying A380 from New Delhi to New York is 25 per cent less than its competitor (Boeing B747-400).

But that does not necessarily mean cheaper fares, he said while talking to reporters before the new generation aircraft took VVIPs for an hour-long demonstration flight around the national capital.

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