Reports on divestment of Air India was floated by rivals: Ministry

NEW DELHI: The civil aviation ministry today alleged that reports on divestment of Air India was floated by its rivals due to fear of competition, as the airline is doing well.
"A few days back I received over 30 messages and phone calls inquiring on a story on the government divesting stake in Air India," Aviation Secretary R N Choubey told at an event being held to announce AI's flight to Vienna.

"There is not any divestment plan for AI. False rumours are being spread by those that are jealous. Many parties are jealous about AI's success," he added.

He also went on to say that AI has improved its performance in the recent times and has been making operating profits some December last year.

There were reports that the government is looking at divesting 49% stake in Air India and a committee will soon be formed to study the issue. This was, however, denied by the ministry then.