Air Asia plans to induct 10 more aircraft next year

Budget carrier Air Asia plans to induct 10 more aircraft next year that would take the strength of its fleet to 15.

"I think realistically we may do 10 aircraft by next year.

“January and February, probably we won't have many. Ten more aircraft next year, taking the total tally to 15 aircraft," Air Asia CEO Mittu Chandilya told PTI.

He was speaking on the sidelines of unveiling of Bangalore Raptors official team jersey ceremony in the presence of ace Indian tennis legend Vijay Amritraj who is conducting the Champions Tennis League.

Chandilya, also the owner of the Bengaluru franchise of CTL, said the airliner planned to put in place one aircraft-a-year plan.

"It depends upon when the aircraft are ready because our schedules are very tight and by next year we really want to have one-aircraft-a-year plan."

He, however, said there would be no change and variations in the type of aircraft the airliner plans to induct.

"There will be no change and no variation in the type of aircraft to be inducted. We will induct A-320s which will be a mix of current engine option and new engine option," he added.

The airliner will be getting neos in 2016 as per delivery, Chandilya said.

He said he would be announcing two new routes next week, but refrained from divulging the information in detail.

"I will be announcing two new routes next week. I think it will be exciting," he said.

Chandilya said growth was key factor for the airliner and its targets will be based on scales.

"Growth is key to us. Our entire targets will be based on scales and I think we are slowly reaching to where we need to go."

Asked whether the new route falls in the eastern parts of India, Chandilya said, "Of course it will be in India.

“I rather keep it surprise because you guys will see. It shouldn't be too much of a surprise, but I think it will be exciting routes," he said.