Aerospace Diary

Neelam Mathews Sept 3, 2012 The battle is on as the two Middle Eastern airline giants vie for the Australian market. Etihad Airways that holds equity investments in Air Berlin, Air Seychelles and Aer Lingus, has increased its stake in Virgin Australia from 5 percent to 10 percent. Qantas is expected to announce an alliance with Emirates very soon. It has been reported Qantas might cut its flights to Frankfurt and start a flight through Dubai. Emirates could also lease Qantas' slots in Heathrow, London.

 Neelam Mathews Sept 1, 2012 The times they are a changing? Are they for Kingfisher? Or just for Mr Mallya? New s is breaking that Diageo will pay over $640million to the UB Group for United Spirits for a large stake to take over management control. What is not clear is how much of this will be Mallya’s personal stake. Will he use the money to give some respite to his fledgling airline and his people, or will it be used for other pressing personal needs? Mr Mallya, the ball is in your court.