MUMBAI- Former Jet Airways (9W) CEO Sanjiv Kapoor has shared his thoughts on the temporary shutdown of Go First (G8) Airlines. He mentioned that the closure of G8 is not good for Indian passengers.
He has recently resigned from the Jet Airways CEO position. On 28th April 2023, Sanjiv Kapoor, the CEO Designate of Jet Airways, announced that he was quitting the airline. Mr Kapoor will step down from the position on May 1.
Sanjiv Kapoor stated that he is honored to have been part of an amazing team that joined hands with JKC to make history by reviving an airline for the first time in India.
Former Jet Airways CEO on Go First
Mr. Kapoor wrote on Twitter a few points which are worth reading. He said, “It is sad to see another airline suspend operations. This is in addition to the lengthy delays in getting Jet off the ground again. This is not good for consumers to be heading towards concentrating such a large market on just 2 or 3 players. Need at least 4 strong airlines.”
He is saddened by the temporary and possibly permanent grounding of Go First Airlines. Mr. Kapoor is worried about it as there is tremendous potential in the Indian aviation market and few players. With the grounding of Go First, the fare is likely to rise. Furthermore, G8 was an ultra-low-cost carrier, offering the lowest fares on certain routes.
He added, “There need to be at least two strong FSCs and two or three strong LCCs in a market of this size and complexity.”
“Despite all its troubles in recent years, GoAir / GoFirst always operated well-maintained aircraft with clean and in good-shape cabins. Kudos to the management for ensuring that despite all challenges,” added Mr Kapoor.
He finally said, “By “strong” airlines, I mean well-capitalized, well-managed airlines that run safe, reliable, and efficient operations with well-maintained aircraft, well-trained staff, and consistent service, creating customer preference and thereby creating value for all stakeholders.”
During Covid 19 Pandemic, no scheduled Indian airlines failed. However, the post-pandemic era has affected some carriers, such as Trujet Airlines (2T), Go First (G8), and SpiceJet (SG) Airlines (But it’s still Operational).
About Sanjiv Kapoor
Mr. Kapoor is a well-known veteran in Travel and Aviation Industry. He is the man who needs no introduction. However, some of you may not know his education and experience, so here’s a glimpse.
Sanjiv, back in 1986, completed his Bachelor’s in Computer Science from Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. The college is a private Ivy League research university.
Furthermore, he completed his master’s at another well-known institute. The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania is the world’s first collegiate business school. He did his MBA in Strategic Management.
After graduating from Wharton, he worked at renowned companies such as Oracle, Northwest Airlines, Bain & Company, and more. He returned to India and joined Spicejet Airlines as Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, he joined Vistara in 2016 as Chief Strategy and Commercial Officer. He also led the Oberoi hotels as the president for almost a year before joining Jet Airways as Designated CEO.
Go First Flight Cancellations
India’s low-cost carrier Go First (G8), has extended the suspension till May 9. The airline announced this in a notice on its social media platforms.
However, according to our sources, the staff are notified that the suspension will expend till May 15. Furthermore, it can extend further if they are not able to solve the problems with United States-based engine manufacturer Pratt and Whitney.
The airline claims that the groundings have resulted in the loss of revenue and incurred expenses of Rs 10,800 crore. Further, it is seeking Rs 8,000 crore as compensation from PW.
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