Interview - Demand Is Down, but we’re okay

SP’s Airbuz (SP’s): How would you rate the business aviation environment in India? Has the global slowdown affected your operations? How do you manage costs during recession?

Sunil Godhwani (SG): Business aviation in India is growing and has shown evident growth in the last couple of years. The global slowdown has affected our business as well. The demand for charter has gone down, but we are okay as we work on a channel partner module.

SP’s: How successful has fractional ownership been in business aviation?

SG: We never thought of expanding our business on those lines.

SP’s: Who are your main competitors in the Indian market?

SG: Among charter operators, none actually! We have a different strategy. We want the corporate houses not to knock their heads with aviation infrastructure, logistic and management because we position ourselves as a one-stop shop to cater to all their requirements, for within or outside India travel, with our versatile fleet of turboprops, jets and helicopters. We have always emphasised on treating this service as any travel related benefit. Instead of getting into the hassle of managing the machine and keeping account of the numerous expenses involved, use our services and enjoy the substantial savings we achieve with our expertise in this business.

SP’s: What problems do non-scheduled operators face in India?

SG: Many to count, as general aviation has now grown to a level that demands world class infrastructure. But in the coming year or two, we all would see radical improvements.

SP’s: How helpful are government bodies, like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority of India, in the functioning of aviation services like yours?

SG: Very much to companies who abide by the systems and channels laid by these bodies for efficient functioning.

SP’s: What are the parameters you consider when procuring an aircraft or a helicopter for the fleet? What is the size of your fleet?

SG: Parameters differ from company to company. We have aggressive yet calculated growth chart. (See ‘Religare’s Current Fleet’.)

SP’s: Do government regulations on procurement hamper business?

SG: Not really.

SP’s: Do you have your own maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities?

SG: It’s in the planning stages, but as of now we outsource.

SP’s: Does the company have regular training programmes for the employees? How do you look after the corporate pilot’s interests?

SG: We have in-house instructors and conduct periodical training programmes. When it comes to pilots, we know there are companies who do not think it’s logical to spend on recurrent annual trainings abroad, but we are very particular, regardless of the costs involved.

SP’s: What are the company’s expansion plans for the next five years? Do you have international operations?

SG: We currently also have the capability to fly international across the globe. As for expansion, we have outlined our future requirements but will disclose these as and when the time is right.