Jet Airways’ Comeback Nears as AOC Renewal Signals Return

Jet Airways’ Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) was recently renewed on July 28, 2023, as announced by its parent company, the Jalan Kalrock Consortium (JKC). The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) renewed the AOC, demonstrating their confidence in the consortium’s efforts to revive India’s beloved airline, Jet Airways.

In a statement published on July 31, 2023, JKC expressed gratitude to the aviation regulator, Ministry of Civil Aviation, and all stakeholders for their faith in the consortium’s commitment to Jet Airways’ revival. The company emphasized its comprehensive strategy to ensure the airline’s success.

The new parent company will collaborate with relevant authorities, industry partners, and stakeholders in the coming weeks to revive Jet Airways. However, it’s worth noting that the latest DGCA-approved scheduled passenger AOC list doesn’t yet include Jet Airways, last updated on June 27, 2023.

Jet Airways faced financial difficulties similar to recently privatized Air India, leading to its suspension of operations in April 2019. The airline’s AOC had previously expired in May 2023. At the time of its grounding, Jet Airways had a single Boeing 737-800 in its fleet, registered as VT-SXE, as shown by Ch-aviation.com data.

JKC won the bid for Jet Airways’ assets in June 2021 during the airline’s insolvency process before the Indian National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Although this is the second time the consortium has renewed the carrier’s AOC, Jet Airways is yet to resume commercial flights since April 2019.

Regarding the leadership of the airline, the departure of Chief Executive Officer (CEO)-designate, Sanjiv Kapoor, who is currently with SAUDIA, leaves uncertainty at the helm. JKC recently announced the appointment of Jatinderpal Sing Dhillon as the Accountable Manager starting July 2023. Captain Dhillon’s strong background in piloting, management, and training aims to contribute strategic value to Jet Airways’ revival process, according to JKC’s announcement on July 26, 2023.