Emirates CCO: India's aviation market needs more competition
11 Jun 2024 CW Team
Emirates Airline's Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, remarked that the pace of growth in the Indian aviation market must align with capacity, and increased competition would offer consumers more options. He advocated for expanded bilateral flying rights between Dubai and India.
Regarding potential partnerships in India, Kazim stated that Emirates is receptive to such engagements if there is interest from Indian airlines in dialogue and collaboration. He described India as a top-tier market for the full-service carrier, with current demand surpassing available capacity in the country.
Emirates currently operates direct flights to nine Indian cities from Dubai and has been advocating for increased bilateral rights between the two countries, which currently stand at 65,000 seats per week. Kazim highlighted India's consistent demand, unaffected by seasons or holidays, and emphasised the need to match the growth of Indian aviation with adequate capacity.
The bilateral flying rights currently allow Dubai carriers to operate 65,000 seats weekly to India, with a similar allocation for Indian airlines to Dubai. Kazim mentioned that these rights are fully utilised, with the last revision occurring in 2015. The decision on bilateral flying rights rests with the governments of India and the UAE.
Kazim expressed satisfaction with the support received from stakeholders in India and highlighted Emirates' interline agreement with SpiceJet. He underscored the importance of partnerships and collaborations in the aviation industry, noting that competition is welcome and emphasising the need for airlines to work together to cover the diverse needs of travellers