Mumbai, June 16: Low-cost carrier AirAsia has announced industry leader Ratan Tata as chief advisor to the board of its Indian venture and promised 'Nano' airfares once it begins operating flights in the country.

Announcing Tata's name as the chief advisor, Malaysia-based AirAsia chief Tony

Fernandes also said that the name of chairman for AirAsia India board would also be disclosed soon.

"Persuading Tata to be advisor has not been easy. Critical, we have someone of his massive experience to help me chart Airasia India with Mittu (Chandilya) and myself," Fernandes announced on micro-blogging site Twitter.

Ratan Tata, who retired as head of Tata group in December last year, is considered as the main force behind launch of the world's cheapest car, Nano. It was launched by the group at an initial price tag of Rs. 1 lakh.

AirAsia is widely expected to bring in competitive pricing in the Indian aviation market, once it begins in service later in 2013.