B'lore to be major hub for AI

Bangalore will be a major hub for Air India, the airline formed by the merger of Air India and Indian.

On the sidelines of an MoU signing ceremony between the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI) and Royal Aeronautical Society (RAS), president of AeSI and CMD of Air India V Thulasidas said, Air India has acquired an 8.5 acre land adjacent to the upcoming Bangalore International Airport (BIAL) in Devanahalli near Bangalore. AI will build commercial space there and it will house facilities for passengers.

The BIAL will give a shot in the arm to the plans of Air India to expand its operations from the city, he said. The Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI) is the "principal society and national voice serving the professions in areas of aeronautics, aerospace and aviation".

AeSI's primary purpose is to advance the sciences, engineering, technology and management of aerospace, aeronautics and aviation. It also aims to foster and promote the professionalism of those engaged in these pursuits.

The MoU aims at exchanging technology and other information concerning aviation, aeronautics and space sciences. The two bodies are planning joint events in 2008.

The MoU also aims to sponsor scientific activities to the fields of aviation, aerospace and space sciences. The two societies will also conduct workshops and other activities relating to the said fields.

David Marshall, president, RAS, after inking the pact said it will open more centres in India. "AeSI is set to become the corporate partner of RSI," Marshall added.