AI to be among world's top 20 airlines after merger: CMD

Mumbai, May 13 (UNI) After the merger of Air India and Indian, the new entity is expected to feature among the top 20 airlines of the world, Air India CMD V Thulsidas said.

He was speaking to reporters at a function organised by Aernautical Society of India's 'Aviation Nite-07' last night on the occasion of his election as the president of the society.

Mr Thulsidas said, ''Indian aviation industry is exciting and is growing at a very high speed.'' Defending the decision to merge the two airline companies, Mr Thulsidas said the merger will capitalise the growth as international carriers.

The CMD also revealed that post merger Air India is expected to join one of the there alliances like STAR or SKY, which will give them the new market.

He ruled out the removal of the staff of Air India or Indian by offering VRS immediately.

''We are the national carrier and we should be model for other carriers,'' he said.

Mr Thulsidas also ruled out purchasing A-380 aircraft with a capacity of 850 passengers and added that currently they are concentrating on increasing the size of the fleet by acquiring smaller aircraft.

UNI