21. Kingfisher Airlines : A case of Financial Mismanagement and Strategic Failure

Kingfisher Airlines, once a leading carrier in India, faced significant financial challenges, including mounting debts exceeding Rs. 13,000 crores, leading to its eventual bankruptcy. The airline's struggles were exacerbated by its decision to merge with Air Deccan, a low-cost carrier, without adequately aligning their business models. Kingfisher's lavish business approach, lack of own aircraft, and operational inefficiencies, combined with the rising costs of aviation fuel, ultimately led to its downfall. Despite attempts at restructuring, including seeking fresh funds and government subsidies, Kingfisher failed to recover, marking a key example of failed business strategy in the aviation sector.