Air India stake sale: Traffic rights, airport slots are the biggest draws

Bidders will, however, seek clarity on debt restructuring and the level of govt control

Access to the Indian market and slots at constrained airports like Delhi and Mumbai will be the key attractions for Indian and foreign airlines to invest in Air India, say experts. Bidders will, however, seek a clarity on debt restructuring and the level of government control in the carrier before making a bid.

On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet gave an in-principle nod for a stake sale in Air India. Decisions on the quantum of disinvestment and allowing foreign participation in bids is yet to be taken. Modalities regarding debt restructuring, demerger and sale of its subsidiaries have also not been