Efforts on to keep Air India’s date with Star Alliance
http://www.mydigitalfc.com/news/effo...r-alliance-256
Officials of civil aviation ministry and Air India met Star Alliance executives here on Friday ahead of a crucial board meeting of the 27-airline grouping to decide on the entry of the Indian national carrie into the alliance. Officials were tightlipped on the outcome, but indicated that the meeting would continue on Saturday.
A vote on Air India’s entry into Star alliance is expected to take place on Sunday. But indications are that some members in the alliance were opposed to the entry of Air India in view of the open skys policy of the government. Dominant members of the Star Alliance include Lufthansa, Air China, United Air Lines and Air Canada.
But ministry of civil aviation officials said that the carrier had options of joining other international alliances. This was especially in view of threats made by Star Alliance that they could withdraw the invitation to Air India.
Now we know why some members are opposed. They want the Govt to give them more access to Indian airports. If the Govt does oblige I guess AI can take another decade to fulfill the requirements and *A will be waiting to welcome them with open arms.
