If AI were not interested in Dublin - why would they sending a team to Ireland to visit, and have shortlisted down the airports to two
But did anyone notice 99% of the info comming about AI was from Irish Source. Apart from one American source, I have not seen a single Indian source to say AI were hubbing at DUB.
If the Runway is such a hindereance and if the Air India have no intention of starting a hub them you'd wonder what the DAA and Air India have been talking about for the last 12 months or so
Again AI havent actually said anything though, have they. Whats even funnier is, that the Irish Transport Minister recently went to India, and during that time, met with AI. Whats interesting is, in the very comprehensive list of 'people he met' during his visit, it doesnt actually mention anyone from AI. He met the CAA guys, but sepnt the time talking about Delhi and the duty free shops.
Realistically, did people honestly expect AI to come. Apart from per clearance (which I still see as a false economy) and cheap fees, what could DUB offer AI? Theres already a strong TATL presence at DUB, to the point that even AA have a hard time justifying a year round service, theres very very little O&D presence, the runway is short so likely the aircraft would be payload restricted, and with AI in star, little feed options into the hub.