The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulator, has given Go First Airlines, previously known as Go Airlines (India), a conditional approval to resume flight operations. This decision comes after the airline stopped operations in May 2023 due to financial constraints and subsequent bankruptcy protection.
The Pratt & Whitney Dispute: A Turbulence for Go First
Go First‘s financial woes were partly due to what it branded as “faulty” Pratt & Whitney engines. These issues resulted in the grounding of nearly half of its 54 Airbus A320neos. However, the US-based engine manufacturer, a Raytheon subsidiary, has dismissed these allegations.
Following DGCA’s approval and audit observations, Go First has opted to reduce its original resumption plan by approximately 30%. The DGCA audit highlighted a range of issues, including a shortage of pilots and technical staff, unsettled court cases, and funding problems.
As part of the insolvency resolution process, Go First’s Resolution Professional (RP), Shailendra Ajmera, is inviting Expressions of Interest (EoIs) from potential bidders. The EoIs submission deadline is August 9, 2023, and the final list of potential resolution applicants will be revealed on August 19, 2023.
Looking Forward: Go First’s Road Ahead
As Go First moves towards flight resumption and away from bankruptcy, all eyes are on how it satisfies DGCA’s conditions, manages the Pratt & Whitney dispute, and addresses its pilot shortage. The restart of Go First’s operations will undoubtedly be a significant event in the aviation industry.
