RAK Airways said it will restart flights on October 10, after halting services in 2009, and will consider aircraft buys after a year, ruling out plans for an initial public offering at present.
RAK Airways, the national carrier for the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (UAE), suspended operations in May 2009 due to tough economic conditions.
'We have an attractive business plan. We hope to break even in the first year,' its Chief Executive Omar Jahameh said. 'There is no change in the company's ownership, predominantly comprising of private shareholders. Going to IPO is not an option at the moment,' he added.
RAK Airways also unveiled its new brand. 'Our new brand reflects the new spirit of the airline- upbeat, full of character, fun and friendly however without compromise on safety or quality,' he noted.
The airline said it will restart with flights to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and Calicut in India deploying two 737-400 Boeing aircraft. According to Jahameh, both destinations had been carefully chosen.
He said RAK Airways would be positioning itself in the niche market between the well-established commercial airlines and the more recently established low cost carriers. 'Although our fares are extremely competitive we are focused on providing a value offering that differentiates itself from low cost carriers. For instance, on every flight to and from Jeddah and Calicut, seats will be priced starting from Dh10 ($2.72),' he remarked.
'In addition, we will be allowing passengers to take up to 30kg of luggage with them as well as the normal hand baggage allowance. They will also get a complimentary full hot meal with beverages served on board,” Jahameh added.
“There will be one travel class throughout the entire cabin,” Jahameh said, “and passengers will be able to choose their seats when they book, which they can do on-line, via travel agents, or directly with our call centre.”
'In addition, to ensure RAK Airport is easily accessible for our passengers from Dubai/Sharjah, the RAK Airways will provide a free shuttle service between the neighboring emirates for each flight that we operate,' the airline Chief stated.
The airline will restudy the option to purchase 4 Boeing 737-800 aircraft with the manufacturer in a year's time.
'The contract is not final. We have a very good relationship with Boeing and this contract is very flexible,' Chairman Sheikh Omar bin Saqr al-Qassimi said.
source: Reuters