Air India unveils revamp plan after privatisation setback

Air India will revamp its business and first class cabins on international flights to try to boost revenues by wooing more high-paying passengers, a top company official said Friday. India shelved Wednesday a plan to sell a 76% stake in the debt-laden carrier due to lack of interest from bidders, a govt official said, marking the latest setback for its efforts to rescue the airline. The airline, which now plans to focus on finding ways to remain competitive and win market share, also unveiled a new food menu and amenities for passengers, and uniforms for its airline staff. These changes, expected to be introduced over the next 2 months, could earn the airline an additional US$147m a year in revenue. Air India currently fills only 60% of the business and first class seats on its international flights to North America and Europe. <br/>