From improving service to modernising fleet, challenges abound as Tatas draw flight plan for Air India

From improving services to modernising fleet, Tata Sons has its task cut out as it draws flight plan for its $2.4 billion purchase of debt-ridden, government-owned Air India.

Tata Sons' $2.4 billion purchase of debt-ridden, government-owned Air India will give the conglomerate immediate access to valuable flying rights and landing slots that will help it claw back market share from foreign rivals.

But industry executives warn any success will be a long and complicated process that could cost it more than $1 billion and require fixing myriad problems, including its worn-out fleet, poor service and the lack of a charismatic leader.