Disinvestment-bound national carrier Air India has sought proposals for short-term loans worth ₹1,500 crore to meet “urgent” working capital needs, according to a document.
This is the second time in little over a month that the flagship carrier has floated tenders for short tenure loans, even as the government is working on the modalities for the stake sale.
Multiple headwinds
The debt-laden carrier, which is surviving on taxpayers’ money, is battling multiple headwinds, including financial woes and stiff competition.
In a document issued on October 18, Air India said it was looking for “government guarantee backed Indian Rupee short term loans totalling up to ₹1,500 crore to meet its urgent working capital requirements.”
The loan would have a tenure up to June 27, 2018 from the date of being availed and the deadline could be extended.
“The amount of ₹1,500 crore will be drawn in one-three tranches... The Government of India guarantee is valid up to June 27, 2018 or till the date of disinvestment,” the document said.
With regard to the loan, the carrier has requested banks to submit their financial bids along with the amount they are willing to provide by October 26.
“Air India would like to draw the short term loan within three working days after awarding the acceptance letter to the successful bank/s,” the document said.
Last month too, the airline had sought proposals for short-term loans of up to ₹3,250 crore to meet urgent working capital requirements.
