Hinduja brothers preparing bid for Jet Air

The Hinduja Group is preparing a bid to buy grounded carrier Jet Airway, according to people familiar with the matter. The UK-based group, run by brothers Gopichand Hinduja and Ashok Hinduja, plans to submit an expression of interest by the Jan 15 deadline, signalling its intent to make a formal offer, the people said. Hinduja is seeking a partner to bid, one of the people said. Hinduja Group had earlier this year considered bidding for Jet Airways in partnership with Etihad, but Etihad jettisoned the proposal and Jet Airways was tipped into bankruptcy. Gopichand Hinduja said this month that the group was open to buying Jet Airways if indemnified from the airline’s legal liabilities. Deliberations are at early stage and Hinduja Group may decide against bidding, or other bidders may emerge, the people said. <br/>