AI needs capital infusion of Rs 1000 cr: Patel

Mumbai, Sep 19 (UNI) The centre will soon take a decision on the Air India's request for an additional capital infusion of Rs 1,000 crore, Union Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel indicated today.

Talking to newsmen on the sidelines of a function here, he said the Civil Aviation Ministry was considering the proposal. ''We hope to finalise the same in a couple of months,'' he added.

Patel said the government was in favour of importing Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). The decision would make a major impact on the aviation industry, which was facing rough weather due to steep hike.

Mr Patel also admitted that the infrastruture at new International airport at Bangalore was not upto the mark.

Later, during his speech on the occasion of silver jubilee function of Priyadarshini Academy, Mr Patel said airports could be built with an investment from the private sector, while the government should spent the money for providing civic amenities and other infrastructure.

UNI JM VK RN SY KP1646