Turbo Megha is the latest all-Hyderabad start-up that will soon be taking off from the region — very slowly and carefully though. But the project is already making waves, especially because it’s also actor Ram Charan’s maiden flight as a big investor in a sector that needs some serious nerves.
“Yes, Ram Charan and I have been in talks about the airline for some time now,” says Vankayalapati Umesh, managing director and Charan’s partner in the business.
The actor is currently shooting in Pollachi, near Coimbatore. “We are bringing out the airline in a phased manner and will be sticking to leased aircrafts for the time being — Bombardier Q400s and ATRs. Later, we’ll think about flying our own aircraft,” adds Umesh.
The business is also all Hyderabadi “Ram Charan was very keen on the venture and he’s made a small investment. The others involved in the project are also from the city. We thought of keeping it tight and there’s still so much work left before the final take-off,” says Vankayalapati Umesh.
According to sources, Ram Charan and the other partners will be organising a press conference towards the end of this month to formally announce to the world, their new venture.
“He’s busy with his shoot. But he’s keeping an eye on all the developments. Even the official logo of Turbo Megha is currently being worked upon and will be officially unveiled once the actor is back in town after his shoot,” revealed the source.
Representatives from the airline are also tight-lipped about the budget and the investment that has gone in. Ram Charan’s interests could also perhaps make him the only actor in India invested in an airline business.
“We’re not going very public with the details. It’s definitely a dream project and like I said, in aviation... you have to be careful. If done right, it can be a very successfully venture and we are making sure every step we take, is measured and correct,” concludes Umesh.
