Mumbai

Former Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel emphasized on Friday that India’s aviation sector should attract well-established, financially strong players rather than short-lived, “fly-by-night” operators.

Speaking to PTI, Patel said, “Aviation is a complex, capital-intensive industry with high cash flow requirements. That is why it is important that serious, long-term players enter the market, rather than companies without sustainable plans.”

Patel, who served as Union Minister of Civil Aviation from 2004 to 2011 and is currently a Rajya Sabha member, cited the Tata Group’s acquisition of Air India as an example of the kind of robust investment the sector needs. “We need more major names like the Tatas to come into aviation,” he added.

Commenting on IndiGo’s recent flight cancellations, Patel said the airline remains a financially strong and significant player in the Indian market. “The issue was related to pilots and Flight Duty Time Limitation rules. They could have handled it better, but overall, IndiGo continues to be important for the industry.”

READ MORE: Nawabzada Mohammad Asif Ali shows the humble side of royalty

He warned that the collapse of carriers such as Jet Airways, Kingfisher, and GoAir highlights the risks of weak entrants in the sector. “Strong players are essential for a healthy aviation industry, and their presence benefits the country’s long-term growth,” Patel concluded.