Mahindra’s GippsAero forays into growing Sri Lanka market

GippsAero, the Australian based manufacturer of the GA8 Airvan utility aircraft and a subsidiary of India’s Mahindra Aerospace, has announced the appointment of a marketing, sales and service representative for Sri Lanka. Terry Miles, CEO of GippsAero said, “We are pleased to partner with the Ideal Group and Favourite Group’s Aviation division for our entry into the Sri Lanka market.”

The Ideal Group has a close working relationship with the Mahindra Group in various segments and Favourite Group’s Aviation division already operates a GA8 Airvan in Sri Lanka. The two companies have established a new company to act as the representative for the Indian giants, Australian manufactured aircraft brand.

The GA8 Airvan, a single engine aircraft that can seat 6 or 7 passengers, began production from 2000 onwards and has already been approved by the aviation regulatory authorities of Sri Lanka. It is flying in 34 countries and is well known for its low operating costs and versatility and has been adopted by a growing number of commercial operators in tourism, air taxi, skydive and law enforcement roles and missions. Arvind Mehra, CEO of Mahindra Aerospace, added that “with customized interiors for a number of mission roles, the GA8 is well positioned for cost conscious customers who value the business benefits of flying and owning their own plane, but without the high entry cost burden, normally associated with ownership.”

“We are delighted to join hands with GippsAero and the Mahindra Group which is already a well-established name in Sri Lanka. I am sure this alliance would help contribute in the development of general aviation in Sri Lanka, which is known for its pristine beaches and tourist destinations,” said Suren Mirchandani, Director of Favourite Group, which has business interests in aviation, property development and investments in hospitality and hotels.

The Favourite Group entered the aviation sector in 2004, with the launch of Deccan Aviation Lanka - a charter helicopter and aircraft operator.

Ideal Group Chairman Nalin Welgama said “The Ideal Group was proud to venture into the domestic aviation sector in Sri Lanka with our partner, the Mahindra Group, since this would further solidify our relationship with them.

It was our vision to offer the Sri Lankan consumer the best of the world and India by harnessing our local talents and international brands. By creating this joint venture with the Favourite Group, we are certain that we would bring about a game changer in domestic aviation with GippsAero products.”

As regards the Mahindra Group, this is a US $15.4 billion multinational group based in Mumbai, India. Mahindra employs more than 144,000 people in over 100 countries, focusing on enabling people to rise.