BIAL relents, sets May 11 as new date for airport opening

Bangalore, Mar 13 (UNI) Quickly agreeing to the Union Civil Aviation Ministry directive, the promoters of Bengaluru International Airport today said it would postpone the launch to May 11.

The consortium however expressed disappointment over the delay as it was 'beyond its control'.

"We have received communication from the Ministry of Civil Aviation seeking a consideration of a suitable airport opening date after May 10, due to delays on the Air Traffic Control (ATC) services. BIAL has decided the new date of Airport Opening as May 11, 2008," BIAL CEO Albert Brunner said in a statement here tonight.

He however said it was disappointing especially as the company's employees and partners had been working tirelessly to launch on March 30.

"This delay is beyond the control of BIAL. To mark the successful readiness of the airport infrastructure, BIAL will hold an event to showcase the new airport on March 28, he said.

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