Indian Airlines has approved plans to boost its fleet with the acquisition of five Boeing 737-200s and Airbus A320s on dry-lease.
The Boeing twinjets will join the fleet in time for the winter schedule starting in October, while the Airbuses will follow in time for the summer 2001 season. According to sources, the aircraft are likely to be leased for a period ranging from three to five years. The acquisition of more 737s will ease the situation for Alliance Air, which has been suffering a shortage of aircraft following the crash of one of its 737s in Patna in July. The airline has been forced to cancel some services, but these are due to be resumed in the winter schedule.
Meanwhile a committee will look into the Air India proposal for Indian Airlines receiving additional Airbus A300B4 widebodies from Air India which the latter does not currently operate.
Source: Flight International
