Air-Asia, a Malaysia-based low cost carrier, has landed its first Airbus-A 320 at the Chennai International Airport ahead of its plans to launch operations in the country in April.

The Airbus A320, with a seating capacity of 150 passengers in a two-class cabin or upto 180 for low-cost or charter flights, landed in Chennai at 9.25 am here from its factory at Toulouse, France. The aircraft has been designed for 180 seats in an low cost format.  The company said that the aircraft was given a traditional water cannon salute as ti arrived on the runway. AirAsia India is waiting for the AOP (air operator's permit) in order to start operating flights in the country.

AirAsia India, chief executive officer, MittuChandilya said, "AirAsia India family takes immense pride in welcoming home its first aircraft which has just rolled of the manufacturing line from Toulouse. The arrival of our first A320 signifies that we are a step closer to our dream to create a new benchmark in the low-cost air travel category."

Air Asia, has formed a joint-venture with the Tata group company, Tata Sons Ltd and Arun Bhatia's TelestraTradeplace Pvt Ltd to enter the Indian market. Tata Sons will have a 30 per cent stake in the venture but will not be involved in the operations. Government officials hinted that the AirAsia Investment Ltd's (AAIL) proposal has been included in the agenda of the FIPB meeting.