An Express TravelWorld exclusive

'I know I can make money in India'

Dato' Anthony Francis Fernandes, or simply Tony Fernandes, founder director of AirAsia X and group CEO of AirAsia, speaks to Reema Sisodia about his confidence in the India market

The market seems to be bleeding amidst entry of at least four low-cost carriers in India. How does AirAsia manage to retain its position?

To be honest, all investors in the Indian aviation space from Dr Mallya to Naresh Goyal are my friends. So I know there are many bottlenecks in India when it comes to operating a low-cost carrier - from technical issues to governmental rules and regulations, taxes, and fuel pricing. But my gut feel says things can work. I know I can make money in India. I am no one to give advice but I feel things can be achieved with focus and discipline. Today, India is no different when it comes to doing business. We would stay away from Mumbai and New Delhi as there are so many places to fly into in India, which are more promising, like Trivandrum.

What according to you is the problem with the India model?

Of whatever I have seen and observed, people don't have the staying power and the discipline. I have always said this and will continue to stress on the fact that the people in the business are vital. It is the people and the staff that can carry the business through with discipline and focus. There needs to be a certain culture in the way people do business. There needs to be a chemistry between the team members, from cabin crew to ground staff to pilots. We need people-to-people synergy in the aviation business. I have noticed that there is not much communication between departments and professionals such as pilots, ground staff, cabin crew, engineering in India. Each department functions as a separate unit. I strongly feel that a low-cost model can work in India. I love the Indian market; I was superbly excited when I recently visited Mumbai. I am convinced that I can bring in a whole new culture in the Indian market. I am confident to bring a new wave in India. Today, the low-cost carriers have also brought about changes in the airport model the world over.

What are your plans with AirAsia X?

AirAsia X is just an extension of AirAsia. Everyone is asking me when I am opening new routes. It is an answer to what the market wants. We are definitely entering the Indian market with Amritsar as our first destination. We would like to call it the Punjabi Express. There is more to come in time.

What is your secret of success?

I am very clear - I will not get into a business and wait for profits to come in after three years. I am constantly working at doing things differently by working around things to get it right. One has to constantly innovate in business.