Go First gets DGCA nod to resume fights

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Aviation sector regulator DGCA has allowed Go First, which is facing financial crisis, to fly again but with certain conditions. The DGCA has informed about this decision to Go First’s resolution professional Shailendra Ajmera.

According to the information given by DGCA, GoFirst had submitted a plan to start the aircraft operation again on 26 June. A detailed study was done by the department and the regulator has accepted this application. DGCA has said that GoFirst can start flight operations again, but for this it will have to fulfil certain conditions.

The airline had stopped flights on May 2 after filing for voluntary insolvency. It had cited lack of engine supply from US engine maker Pratt & Whitney for stopping operations.

Go First has a total of 57 Airbus A320 aircraft in its fleet. About 90% of these aircraft have engines from Pratt & Whitney. About 50 percent of these aircraft were grounded due to engine problems. The airline has blamed the engine maker for the problems it is facing now. But P&W on its part said the airline has been a serial offender as far as the payments go.

Go First, owes about Rs 11,463 crore to banks, airlines lessors and the engine maker Pratt & Whitney. It may be be noted here that the airline has not defaulted on loan payments yet.

Go First will fly soon

According to the official statement given by DGCA, ‘Go First will be allowed to fly after completing all the necessary formalities. GoFirst will have to take schedule approval of the planes from the DGCA after the IRP fulfills the condition. Ticket booking will start after all these formalities. Along with booking, further action will be taken on refund as well.

These conditions must be met DGCA has said that it is necessary for airlines to have Air Operator Certificate at all times. Also, the aircraft used in the operation should be in a better condition to fly. Not only this, no aircraft should be used in operation without a handling flight.