Cathay Pacific Airways is looking to expand its operations in India but it has no plans to acquire a stake in any Indian airline.

Tom Wright, General Manager of Cathay Pacific's South Asia, Middle East & Africa operations, said, "While it's a great idea, there is no interest for us at this point. It isn't in our business model and it is not how we operate."

However, Mr. Wright added that the carrier wanted to expand further in India and looking to fly to more destinations in the country. With 80 per cent passenger load factor, India is a top destination for the carrier to focus.

He also raised concerns over the recent proposals to raise airport charges, and urged the government to slash the "very high" charges.

Mr. Wright was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the launch of the carrier's new business class and premium economy cabins on the Chennai too Hong Kong route. The new classes will become operational from January 1.

Cathay Pacific announced the launch of premium economy class to cater to business travellers who want more comforts than economy class but do not want to spend money on expensive business class seats.

He said new business class as well as premium economy class seats would be a great advantage for business travelers flying via Hong Kong. The carrier is offering promotional fares of Rs 40,000 and Rs 35,000 for premium economy class and economy class, respectively.