As Tata Group Begins Transformation Into Household Name, Growth Opportunities Abound

Air India could be on the precipice of a deal for as many as 500 jets as it eyes an ambitious growth deal, according to insiders.

Tata Group's management of the airline has continued to build its operations into a new peak, and now that growth could be cemented with 400 narrowbody jets and 100+ widebodies. So far, the group seems fairly brand-ambivalent, which could be a not-so-subtle way to break the news to Airbus and Boeing in the hopes of prompting some courtship surrounding a deal. At list price, the deal would be worth north of $100 billion, without any special options.

The news isn't too unforeseen, given Tata's announcement that Vistara, a joint effort with Singapore Airlines, and Air India would be merged into a combined airline with a fleet of 218 aircraft. The resulting airline will still only manage to be the 2nd-biggest airline in India. The news would be welcome by either manufacturer - not to mention a dark horse like the Comac 919. 

Air India's goal of becoming a worldwide name in travel could easily trip up with any one of a number of domestic and international issues, from the ever-present pilot shortage to unreliable infrastructure in its home market. Becoming a top-tier airline brand with the same cachet as more established names in the business won't come easy, - which makes aircraft selection even more important. Nothing affects the passenger experience quite like a fine aircraft, after all. Earlier this year, Air India CEO Campell Wilson said the company was taking time to study the Airbus A350, Boeing 777, and 787 for suitability.

Speaking on their goals for the company, chairman of Tata Sons said that "Air India is focusing on growing both its network and fleet, revamping its customer proposition, enhancing safety, reliability, and on-time performance. We are excited with the opportunity of creating a strong Air India which would offer both full-service and low-cost service across domestic and international routes."

FMI: www.tata.com