IndiGo starts direct import of jet fuel

NEW DELHI: Low-cost carrier (LCC) IndiGo is trying to bring down its biggest cost factor jet fuel, keeping in mind the increased competition with new players like Tata-AirAsia and Tata-Singapore Airlines (SIA) set to taking the skies soon.

The LCC has started directly importing aviation turbine fuel (ATF) or jet fuel into southern ports for feeding some of its flights.Despite repeated attempts, IndiGo did not comment and did not give details like how much jet fuel it was importing and what savings it expected from the move.

Industry sources say direct import of ATF could lead to huge savings if an airline imports sizeable amount of its requirements.IndiGo is the only profitable Indian carrier and its ATF import move signals its intent to remain so when competition rises and AirAsia India lowers fares.