Following the shutdown of Go First, formerly known as Go Air, last year, the airline’s highly sought-after airport slots have become a valuable asset in the Indian aviation market. With Go First ceasing operations, its airport slots at key hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore are now available, creating an opportunity for other carriers to acquire them.
Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air, among other airlines, are expected to bid for these slots, as they would enable them to expand their operations and improve their connectivity to major domestic and international destinations. The slots are particularly valuable in India’s congested airports, where landing and departure slots are limited.
To ensure a fair and transparent allocation of the slots, the Civil Aviation Ministry is planning to establish a panel. This committee, headed by the Airports Authority of India’s executive director of operations, will include representatives from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), as well as airlines and defense authorities. The goal is to distribute the unused slots equitably, taking into account factors like demand, efficiency, and safety.
This move comes as the Indian aviation sector continues to recover post-pandemic, with increasing competition among carriers and a growing need for more air travel options. The redistribution of Go First’s slots could significantly reshape the competitive landscape of India’s aviation industry, offering an opportunity for airlines to enhance their reach and improve services for passengers.