Air India CEO Campbell Wilson emphasized the crucial role of the merger between AIX Connect and Air India Express in advancing the Air India Group’s transformation journey. Speaking on Tuesday, Wilson described the merger as a pivotal milestone and willl cater to the growing air travel demand.
Unified Brand and Airline Code Established
The merger, recently approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), will see the combined entity operate under the ‘Air India Express’ brand and a unified airline code ‘IX.’ Wilson noted that this integration reflects the airline’s commitment to a future growth and transformation agenda.
“About a year ago, we started integrating AIX Connect with Air India Express, bringing both organizations together under a common brand,” Wilson stated. He added that the successful completion of this operational and legal merger is a significant step towards enhancing the airline’s capabilities.
As part of the merger, the fleet is expected to grow from 88 to over 100 aircraft by the end of the financial year. Wilson highlighted that the number of routes has expanded from 74 to 171, with passenger numbers increasing by over 400 percent since Tata Group’s acquisition of Air India in early 2022.
Wilson acknowledged the support from various stakeholders, including the DGCA and the civil aviation ministry, in facilitating the merger, which involved harmonizing operational manuals and ensuring compliance with safety and maintenance standards. This successful merger positions Air India Express to effectively meet the rising demand for air travel in India and the surrounding region.