The Jet Airways Story

He then worked with Iraqi Airways for a couple of years, before joining Royal Jordanian Airlines as regional manager. Goyal's diligence and incredible ability to memorize flight schedules caught the attention of Ali Ghandour, who was then chairman and president of Royal Jordanian Airlines. Ghandour introduced Goyal to the wider world of aviation outside India. In 1974, Goyal decided to get into the GSA business himself and established Jetair Transportation representing Kuwait Airways and Air France. Simultaneously Goyal was appointed regional manager of Philippine Airlines. Over the next few years, Goyal expanded his network picking up agencies for some more airlines. He was a regular member at the annual general meetings of International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global aviation body...

The most crucial decision was the choice of aircraft. While Damania, East West and ModiLuft who also started their operations at the same time opted for the older Boeing 737-200s, JA chose newer 737-300s, whose lease costs were at least 40% higher. Four planes(about three years old) were leased from Ansett Airlines. Although the 737-300s were more expensive to lease they were more fuel efficient (consumed 8% less fuel) and were cheaper to maintain. Goyal felt that the young fleet would help attract customers. Analysts felt that by having one type of aircraft-the 737-in its fleet, JA made the maintenance and flight crew training far simpler. Spares were common and inventories were lower as well. For engineers, dealing with one type of aircraft...