Lufthansa in talks with Jet, QuikJet for cargo biz

German carrier Lufthansa has confirmed that it has started negotiations with Indian full-service carrier Jet Airways and Bangalore-based cargo airline QuikJet for a strategic alliance for cargo operations.

The move comes a day after the government allowed foreign carriers to own 74 per cent in cargo operations under its foreign direct investment (FDI) policy review. Foreign investment was not permitted in cargo airline operations before this.

"We see India as a strategic market and want to stay here and be the number one carrier in cargo operations. This is the reason we are in talks with various domestic players including Jet Airways and QuikJet to get into partnerships for operations to Europe and other forward destinations," said Martin Schlingensiepen, vice president, Asia Pacific Air Cargo division of the Singapore-based airline.

Last month Jet Airways' Chairman Naresh Goyal told reporters that the airline would consider entering the cargo business.

The Tatas are believed to be picking up a minority stake in QuikJet.