Kingfisher Airlines will join OneWorld Alliance, a global airline network, a move analysts say will boost the debt-ridden carrier’s revenues by anywhere between 10-15% by issuing common tickets, sharing software and using same lounges in airports. For Kingfisher, the first Indian carrier to join a global alliance, the entry would be a shot in the arm, as it is struggling to cut down its R6,007-crore debt accumulated until April 2011. 

“Any airline alliance implementation programme is a complex and detailed project, covering just about every aspect of the company’s activities and departments,” said Michael Blunt, vice president, corporate communications, Oneworld Alliance, in an e-mail response. “Kingfisher Airlines is making really good progress and is right on track against the plan. We look forward to welcoming them on board early in 2012,” he added. According to him, the alliance is not seeking any other partner airline in India.

Meanwhile, as per a HT report, Pilots are leaving cash-strapped Kingfisher Airlines, which is battling a mountain of debt amid growing competition from nimble rivals, in droves, posing a human resource challenge in critical times. More than 75 of its estimated pilot count of 650 have quit in the last three months. 

Many of those who are quitting would be joining a rival low cost carrier, said company sources. Aviation experts said the real impact of the resignations would play out two months from now when the notice period of the pilots who have quit starts getting over.