(a) whether the headquarters of Air India has been shifted from Mumbai to New Delhi and if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;
(b) whether the Regional Sub-Office of International Civil Aviation Organisation for Asia & Pacific Regions has been shifted to Beijing; and
(c) if so, the details thereof along with the reaction of the Government thereto?
Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION(Shri G. M. Siddeshwara)
(a): Yes, Madam. Air India Board in its 51st meeting decided to shift Air India`s headquarters to New Delhi w.e.f 1.3.2013, which is also the registered office of Air India. The officials of Air India are required to frequently visit Delhi in connection with various issues especially those relating to administration, implementation of Turnaround Plan (TAP) and Financial Restructuring Plan (FRP) and for interaction with Ministry of Civil Aviation and other Ministries at New Delhi. Most of Air India`s subsidiary companies also have their registered offices at Delhi. Besides, shifting of headquarters to New Delhi is essential for enhancing the operational efficiency of Air India.
(b) and (c): No, Madam. The Regional Sub-Office of International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for the Asia & Pacific Regions has been newly established in Beijing in July, 2013, under control of the existing Asia and Pacific (APAC) Regional Office at Bangkok. This was done for better coordination of ICAO member states in the Northern and Central Asia. India being an active member of the ICAO Council, supports ICAO`s effort/s worldwide.