Kingfisher may transit to international role; orders worth $1bn likely at Paris Air Show

Mumbai: Fresh from picking up a major stake in low-cost carrier Air Deccan, full service provider Kingfisher Airlines may now be preparing to position itself as an international carrier, and if industry rumours are anything to go by, it may be all set to announce the acquisition of more wide-bodied aircraft to fulfill this role.

According to speculation now doing the industry rounds, Kingfisher may place an order for at least five wide-bodied Airbus aircraft, at an estimated value of $1 billion at the forthcoming International Paris Air Show to be held between June 18 and 21. The purchase of these aircraft will allow Kingfisher to launch full-scale international operations.

According to industry sources, Kingfisher might opt for the Airbus A340-600, the world's longest commercial passenger aircraft in operation, whose 75.3 metre overall length would provide a seating capacity of between 380 and 419 seats. The A340-600's overall length, of 75.3 metres, compares to 73 metres length of the A380, the world's largest airplane. The five A340-600's that Kingfisher might place on order come at a list price of $200 million, which would take the cost of the total deal to $1 billion overall if it materialises.

As for the A380, Kingfisher has so far placed firm orders for five of these super jumbos, with an option for an additional five. Kingfisher also has five A350-800s, five A340-500s and five A330s on order. These wide-bodied aircraft are designed for long-haul non-stop flights as well as for short-haul international services.

According to industry sources, Vijay Mallya, chairman and CEO of Kingfisher Airlines,  may be expected to make an announcement in this regard at the International Paris Air Show.