AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes booked for violating international aviation rules
CBI alleged that Tony Fernandes (inset) lobbied with government servants for clearances, removal of existing 5/20 rule of aviation and change in regulatory policies
The CBI has registered a case against AirAsia airline CEO Tony Fernandes and several others over alleged violation of norms for getting international flying licenses.
The case relates to the alleged violation of norms by directors of the aviation company for relaxation of 5/20 rules in the aviation sector to get licenses for international operations, as well as a violation of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) rules.
“A case has been registered against Fernandes and some other unidentified persons linked to the firm (AirAsia) on the allegation of violation of 5/20 rules in the International aviation sector,” CBI Spokesperson R.K. Gaur was quoted saying.
The 5/20 rule implies that a company needs five years of experience and 20 aircraft to become eligible for the license.
Apart from Anthony Francis ‘Tony’ Fernandes, Group CEO Air Asia Malaysia, the company Air Asia, Travel Food owner Sunil Kapoor, Air Asia Director R Venkatraman, aviation consultant Deepak Talwar, Director of Singapore-based SNR Trading Rejendra Dubey and unidentified public servants have been named in the FIR.
The agency on Tuesday also conducted searches at multiple locations in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru in connection with the case.
CBI alleged that Air Asia Group CEO Tony Fernandes lobbied with government servants for clearances, removal of existing 5/20 rule of aviation and change in regulatory policies.
AirAsia Berhad is a Malaysian low-cost airline.
