The Civil Aviation Ministry of India has grated permission to Deccan Aviation, in which Vijay Mallya-owned Kingfisher Airlines merged in 2007, to operate international services, effective August 26, 2008.

Board members of India-based budget airline, Deccan Aviation, have appointed Vijay Mallya, founder of the UB Group, the spirits maker, as chairman, reported Reuters. Mr Mallya will be replacing NS Narahari, who will reportedly continue as director.

Kingfisher Airlines and Deccan Aviation plan to raise $300 million through sale of shares for the expansion of their merged entity.

BANGALORE: For upper-income flyers, here's some good news. Deccan Aviation will begin shuttle helicopter services from Bangalore city to the upcoming international airport at Devanahalli from March 30, the day the airport becomes operational.

India-based air carrier Deccan has launched its m-Fly initiative in partnership with Oxigen Services, an online payment solution provider. m-Fly is a prepaid user account that can be accessed through mobile phone to book Deccan tickets instantly.