However, a bidding rule that required foreign airlines to team up with a local partner forced them to opt out. Singapore Airlines, which had also expressed interest formally, roped in the Tatas to proceed with its bid. The back story of how the mood against foreign airlines was whipped up was retold at a public meeting by Mr. Shourie. Competition in the air travel market will not increase if Air India gets acquired by a private airline in India. Selling only a part of the government’s holding will not free Air India of the ills of public ownership.

Source: The Hindu July 12, 2017 18:37 UTC