By Neeraj Nanda
Melbourne, 3 September: Air India was formally launched here after 16 years. At a glittering dinner event at The Sofitel, the ‘Maharaja’ came back to Australia with Red and White Wine, Beer and soft drinks, followed by a largely attended function addressed by VIPs including the Air India Chairman and Managing Director, Mr. Rohit Nandan. In his address he emphasized the growing ties between the two countries and it’s further consolidation with the resumption of Ar India flights to Australia. He disclosed that the newly acquired Boeing 747 Dreamliner was less noisy and more comfortable.
” The goal of having a direct flight in 11 hours from Melbourne to Delhi could be realized in the coming months. Once the Sydney and Melbourne flights get consolidated, Air India could also think of starting flights to India from other Australian cities”, he said.
Earlier in the evening, the MCG was the venue of another Air India launch hosted by the Tourism Victoria.
“Air India’s flights between Delhi and Melbourne will open up significant opportunities for Victoria, and are perfectly timed to capitalise on the momentum gained from the Victorian Government’s Super Trade Mission to India in March this year,” Victorian Premier Dr Napthine said addressing those gathered.
Earlier, the first Boeing 747 Dreamliner today landed in on 30th August in Sydney and then proceeded to Melbourne, marking the resumption of Air India flights to Australia after a gap of sixteen years. The flight which earlier went to Sydney and then came to Melbourne had a 256 seats. Many Indian Ministers (including the Civil Aviation Minister) were scheduled to come in the flight but had to abandon the trip after the Indian Parliament’s session was extended.
Melbourne Airport CEO, Chris Woodruff, said that the new daily service was a milestone in aviation history.
“We are delighted to welcome Air India to Melbourne Airport”, said Mr Woodruff.
“Since 2006, the Indian population in Victoria has more than doubled to make our great state home to the largest Indian population in Australia. There is growing demand for services between Melbourne and India and this new daily service will deliver more choice and flexibility to Victorians.”
“Melbourne also has the largest population of Indian students in Australia and the new service will also provide opportunities to strengthen connections with the important education market.”
“We were also thrilled to welcome the very first 787 Dreamliner to Melbourne. With components of the 787 partly manufactured here, Melbourne is proudly the home of the Dreamliner in Australia and we look forward to welcoming more 787s to Melbourne,” said Mr Woodruff.
The Dreamliner was given a traditional water gun salute at the Melbourne Airport. Those at the airport to welcome the first flight were Melbourne Airport CEO, Mr. Chris Woodruff, Victoria Tourism CEO, Mr. Leigh Hary, Air India MD, Mr. Syed NasirAli, Mr. Madhu Mathen, Air India Melbourne and Pooja Jindal, Director, Ministry of Civil Aviation, India, Mr Rajkaumar, Acting Indian Consul General in Melbourne and Mr. Rakesh Kawara, Indian Consulate.
Subsequently, a media interaction took place at the Melbourme Airport Departure Terminal 2 and those officials present answered questions.
– SAT News SErvice
