According to a source quoted by the Economic Times, Go First, an airline with 27 aircraft, intends to resume operations as soon as possible.
However, the initial schedule will be limited in scope. The airline has already discussed its plans with the central government and the new management, a court-appointed resolution professional, will seek permission to restart bookings after a meeting.
Cash Crunch and Insolvency Issues
Go First, owned by the Wadia group, had previously filed for insolvency resolution after canceling flights from May 3-5.
The airline has been facing a severe cash crunch due to limited flight operations over the past few months.
Around half of its fleet remained grounded due to faulty engines, resulting in financial difficulties for the company.
Pratt & Whitney’s Role in Grounded Aircraft
Go First attributed its financial situation to engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney, which supplied failing engines that disrupted the airline’s flight operations.
The airline pointed out that the number of grounded aircraft has increased over the years, reaching 50 percent in December 2022.
Pratt & Whitney, despite making assurances, has failed to address the issue satisfactorily.
DGCA’s Directions and Refund Process
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), in response to Go First’s decision to cancel flights for three days, issued a show cause notice to the airline.
The DGCA directed the airline to submit a plan of action to resume flights and mitigate the inconvenience caused to affected passengers.
When Go First failed to resume operations, DGCA issued another notice instructing the airline to stop bookings and ticket sales immediately.
Go First has mentioned operational reasons for the cancellations on its website and assured passengers that full refunds will be issued promptly.