Is Akasa About to Soar with a $125 Million Investment?

Akasa Air, a relatively new player in the Indian aviation market, is on the cusp of receiving a significant financial boost. A two-party consortium, comprising Bangalore-based Premji Invest and Manipal Group-owned Claypond Capital, is preparing to inject around USD 125 million into the airline. This investment, which values the low-cost carrier at approximately USD 350 million, represents a four-fold increase from its initial valuation. But what does this mean for Akasa Air and the broader Indian aviation landscape?

Who’s Behind the Investment?

The consortium includes Premji Invest, the family investment office of Azim Hashim Premji, former chairman of Wipro Limited, and Claypond Capital, a venture capital firm owned by Manipal Group, linked to businessman Ranjan Pai. These investors are not just bringing in capital; they are bringing in credibility and strategic insight, potentially altering Akasa Air’s trajectory in the highly competitive aviation market.

Why Akasa Air?

Despite its short history, Akasa Air has managed to carve out a space for itself in the Indian market. The airline, which commenced revenue operations two years ago, currently operates flights to 27 airports across India and the Middle East, including the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. With a fleet of 23 B737-8s and one B737-8-200, and substantial orders for 99 B737-10s and 103 B737-8-200s, Akasa Air has demonstrated its ambition to expand aggressively.

The Investment: What’s at Stake?

The reported investment by Premji Invest and Claypond Capital is aimed at acquiring a "significant" minority stake in Akasa Air. While the stakes of current major shareholders, including the Jhunjhunwala family, who together own around 67% of the carrier, will dilute, the Jhunjhunwala’s are expected to remain the largest shareholder with a roughly 40% stake.

The consortium has retained the consultancy firm Alvarez & Marsal to conduct due diligence, a process that is currently underway. According to sources, while the talks are progressing steadily, it may take some time to finalize and freeze the investment.

Akasa’s Market Position: A Promising Future?

Akasa Air currently holds a 4.7% share of the domestic market, placing it fourth behind industry giants IndiGo Airlines, Air India, and Vistara. However, the consortium's interest in Akasa Air goes beyond current numbers. The investors believe in the potential for a strong third player in the Indian aviation market, especially given the ongoing shifts and consolidation within the industry.

Financial Challenges and the Path to Profitability

Since its inception, Akasa Air has faced financial challenges, reporting a loss of INR 7.44 billion (USD 88.7 million) in its first 12 months. The airline is expected to report even larger losses of INR 16 billion (USD 190.7 million) for the year ending March 31, 2024. However, Akasa Air’s co-founder Vinay Dube remains optimistic, attributing these losses to start-up costs and the expenses of establishing a strong market presence. Dube has emphasized that the airline is committed to being well-capitalized and is building for the long run.

Conclusion: A Strategic Bet on the Future

The potential investment in Akasa Air by Premji Invest and Claypond Capital is not just a financial transaction; it is a strategic bet on the future of Indian aviation. With the additional funds, Akasa Air plans to expand further and meet aircraft pre-delivery payments, positioning itself as a key player in the industry. As the airline navigates its financial challenges, this investment could be the catalyst that propels Akasa Air to new heights.

With Inputs from ch-aviation

Hong Kong-based Cathay Cargo is eyeing a significant expansion in India, a market it views as ripe with potential due to its robust economic growth and burgeoning export sectors. The airline is particularly interested in leveraging the country's "open sky" policy, which allows foreign cargo carriers to operate freely from all international airports in India, thereby accelerating the movement of goods, especially perishable items.

The Concept of Coterminalisation: A Game-Changer for Air Cargo?

One of the key requests from Cathay Cargo, as articulated by Tom Owen, Director of Cargo at the airline, is the ability to implement coterminalisation of its freighter planes. This concept involves an aircraft flying into one city, like Delhi, then moving on to another, such as Kolkata, before returning to Hong Kong. This approach would enable Cathay Cargo to maximize its cargo loads by picking up goods from multiple locations within India on a single flight.

"Coterminalisation would allow us to serve multiple cities in one go, which could significantly boost our efficiency and service offerings in India," said Owen. The ability to operate such routes under the open sky framework could be a major boost for India’s export sectors, including pharmaceuticals, automotive components, electronics, and fresh produce.

India's Economic Growth: A Catalyst for Cathay Cargo's Optimism

Cathay Cargo’s optimism is not unfounded. Over the past decade, India has witnessed "miraculous" economic growth, according to Owen. The rapid development of infrastructure, coupled with a skilled logistics workforce, has created a conducive environment for air cargo operations. The ongoing national highway development, enhanced trucking capabilities, and investments in better airports are gradually easing logistical bottlenecks, giving companies like Cathay Cargo more confidence in the Indian market.

High-Potential Sectors: Pharmaceuticals, Auto Parts, and Electronics

Cathay Cargo has long been involved in the transportation of pharmaceuticals, particularly generic drugs, which have seen a sharp increase in exports. Additionally, the company sees great potential in the automotive sector, where it helps transport parts for manufacturing in Japan and entire vehicles for testing and development.

"With the shift in global manufacturing, India has become a beneficiary, especially in the electronics sector. We see a growing demand for moving electronics out of India, which bodes well for our operations," Owen noted.

Fresh Produce and Flowers: A Blossoming Opportunity

India’s agricultural sector is another area where Cathay Cargo sees significant opportunity. The country’s fertile lands produce a wide variety of fresh vegetables and flowers, which are increasingly in demand in global markets. Efficient air cargo services are crucial for maintaining the quality and freshness of these perishable goods during export.

Collaborations with Indian Carriers: A New Avenue for Growth?

In addition to its standalone operations, Cathay Cargo is exploring partnerships with Indian passenger carriers like IndiGo to utilize the belly space of their aircraft for cargo transport. Although discussions are ongoing, these collaborations could open up new avenues for Cathay Cargo to expand its footprint in India.

"We are in talks with IndiGo and other carriers, but nothing has been finalized yet. However, the potential for growth through such partnerships is immense," Owen revealed.

Conclusion: Will India Embrace Coterminalisation?

As Cathay Cargo continues to push for coterminalisation and expands its operations in India, the question remains: Will India’s aviation authorities grant the necessary permissions to enable this logistical innovation? If approved, it could mark a significant step forward in optimizing air freight routes, ultimately benefiting India’s export economy and solidifying Cathay Cargo’s presence in the country.

On Friday, Scandinavian airline SAS faced another wave of industrial unrest as cabin crew members in Norway launched a strike over salary and working conditions. This action follows a breakdown in wage talks and threatens to expand significantly in the coming days, with severe repercussions for the airline and passengers alike.

Initial Impact: A Modest Start with Big Potential

Approximately 120 SAS employees initiated the strike, causing disruptions to a small number of flights. However, this is just the beginning, as labor unions have indicated that the number of striking staff could surge to around 800 by the end of next week. Such an escalation could lead to widespread cancellations, potentially crippling the airline's operations in Norway and possibly affecting flights across Scandinavia.

The Breakdown: Failed Negotiations and Escalating Tensions

The strike comes after a night of intense negotiations that ultimately failed to produce an agreement. Norway's government-appointed wage mediator, Mats Wilhelm Ruland, expressed regret over the inability to bridge the gap between the airline and the unions, noting that there was no viable solution that both parties could endorse.

Union Demands: A Fight for Fair Pay

While the specifics of the unions' demands remain confidential, it is understood that SAS cabin crew members are seeking significant salary increases. Union leaders have pointed out that SAS cabin crew are currently paid 15%-30% less than their counterparts at rival airlines such as Norwegian Air. "SAS was unwilling to meet any of our demands, leaving us with no other option than to go on strike," said Martinus Roekkum, head of the SAS Norway cabin association at Parat.

Wider Implications: Potential for Cross-Border Disruptions

Although the strike is currently limited to Norway, its impact could ripple across Scandinavia. SAS pilots and cabin crew based in Sweden and Denmark are not part of the strike, but the cross-border nature of airline operations means that disruptions in Norway could affect flights and services in neighboring countries as well.

A Troubled History: Echoes of Past Strikes

This strike brings back memories of the 2022 SAS pilots' strike, which lasted 15 days and resulted in the cancellation of 3,700 flights. The airline's struggles during that period eventually led to its filing for U.S. bankruptcy protection and a subsequent restructuring plan involving hedge fund Castlelake, Air France-KLM, and the Danish state. As SAS nears the final stages of its reconstruction process, the impact of the current strike on its recovery remains uncertain.

SAS's Response: Mitigating the Fallout

In response to the strike, SAS has stated that it is working to minimize disruptions to its flight schedule and to support customers with rebookings and information. However, the airline has yet to comment on the unions' plans to escalate the strike next week. With the potential for hundreds more employees to join the strike, SAS faces a challenging week ahead as it tries to navigate the ongoing labor dispute while keeping its restructuring efforts on track.

Conclusion: A Crucial Week Ahead

As the strike enters its second week, all eyes will be on SAS and the Norwegian government to see if a resolution can be found before the situation escalates further. With the potential for mass cancellations and significant disruption to passengers, the stakes are high for both the airline and its employees.

Will SAS find a way to resolve the conflict, or will this strike become another chapter in the airline's troubled history? Only time will tell.

With Inputs from Reuters

India’s aviation sector is in the spotlight once again as concerns over rising airfares have prompted the Ministry of Civil Aviation to consider convening an industry-wide meeting. As reported by broadcaster ET Now, sources suggest that while the government acknowledges the soaring ticket prices, it is currently not in favor of imposing fare caps—a move that has sparked debate among stakeholders and passengers alike.

The Rising Cost of Air Travel: A Cause for Concern

Airfare hikes have become a growing concern for both travelers and the aviation industry. With the demand for air travel rebounding post-pandemic and the holiday season approaching, ticket prices have seen a sharp uptick. Factors such as rising fuel costs, increased operational expenses, and limited capacity due to aircraft shortages have all contributed to the current situation. This has led to a significant burden on consumers, many of whom are now reconsidering their travel plans.

Government’s Stance: No Immediate Fare Caps

Despite the clamor for intervention, the government, according to sources, is not inclined to impose a cap on airfares. The rationale behind this decision is likely rooted in the belief that market dynamics should dictate prices, with minimal interference. The aviation ministry may be wary of the long-term impact that fare caps could have on the industry’s financial health, particularly as airlines are still recovering from the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Possible Industry Meeting: What’s on the Agenda?

While fare caps may be off the table for now, the aviation ministry’s consideration of an industry meeting suggests that the issue is being taken seriously. Such a meeting would likely involve key stakeholders, including airline executives, airport operators, and government officials, to discuss potential measures to manage the rising costs without resorting to regulatory controls. Topics could range from exploring fuel subsidies to increasing competition in the sector, which could help stabilize prices.

Impact on Passengers: What Can Travelers Expect?

For passengers, the current scenario is a mixed bag. On one hand, the absence of fare caps means that ticket prices could continue to rise, especially during peak travel seasons. On the other hand, the industry meeting could pave the way for alternative solutions that might offer some relief. Travelers are advised to book flights well in advance and keep an eye on airline promotions that could help mitigate the cost burden.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Air Travel in India

As India’s aviation ministry deliberates on the best course of action, the outcome of any potential industry meeting could set the tone for air travel in the coming months. While the government’s reluctance to impose fare caps may be seen as a pro-market stance, it also underscores the complexity of balancing consumer interests with the financial viability of the aviation sector. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how the industry responds to these rising challenges, and whether a middle ground can be found that benefits both passengers and airlines.

With Inputs from Reuters

Capital A Berhad, the parent company of AirAsia, has announced a significant milestone in its journey toward financial recovery and growth. The successful signing of a $443 million revenue bond marks a pivotal moment for the airline as it seeks to strengthen its financial position and accelerate growth following the challenges posed by the global pandemic.

Strategic Allocation of Funds

The bond, which has garnered substantial investor confidence, is backed by two leading private credit funds, Ares Management Corp and Indies Capital Partners, contributing $200 million of the total funding. This portion will be strategically deployed to reactivate AirAsia’s fleet, with a focus on aircraft that were grounded during the pandemic. The remaining $243 million, subscribed by key aircraft lessors, will be used to refinance existing lease liabilities, further fortifying the airline's balance sheet.

Leadership Perspectives on the Milestone

Capital A CEO Tony Fernandes expressed his optimism about the financing deal, stating, “Securing this USD 443 million revenue bond is a monumental development for us. It reflects the immense confidence that investors have in our vision and future. We’re approaching the finish line of our post-pandemic recovery journey.”

Fernandes also highlighted the broader strategic implications of this financial achievement. “With the submission of the Extraordinary General Meeting documents for the aviation disposal proposal to Bursa Malaysia, we are eagerly awaiting their review and clearance. Following this, Capital A will present our regularization plan, with the aim of exiting PN17 status once we receive all necessary regulatory approvals.”

Operational Plans for AirAsia's Future

Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group, elaborated on how the funds will be utilized to enhance AirAsia's operational capabilities. “This revenue bond is timely in strengthening AirAsia's financial position and liquidity. Against a backdrop of growing travel demand, we will use this funding to expand and reactivate our fleet and refinance lease liabilities for a more robust balance sheet. We plan to reactivate 10 aircraft in October, with an additional 15 to follow in 2025.”

Lingam emphasized the importance of these steps in positioning AirAsia for long-term success, stating, “With ongoing customer experience initiatives and a rapidly expanding network, the future is bright for AirAsia as we accelerate into our goal of being the world's best airline.”

The Path Ahead for AirAsia

Fernandes underscored the significance of closing the deal, framing it as a turning point for AirAsia. “We are not merely recovering from the pandemic’s impact—we are emerging stronger than ever. This financing underscores the effectiveness of our strategic planning and the unwavering support of our investors, positioning us for a bright and prosperous future.”

The transaction, facilitated by Evercore Asia (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., along with international legal advisor A&O Shearman and local legal advisor Christopher & Lee Ong, sets the stage for Capital A to submit its regularization plan with the goal of exiting the PN17 status as soon as all regulatory approvals are secured.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for AirAsia

As AirAsia moves forward with this crucial financial backing, the airline is poised to emerge not just as a survivor of the pandemic but as a leader in the aviation industry. With the reactivation of its fleet and a solidified financial foundation, AirAsia is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goals, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in its storied history.

With Inputs from AirAsia