Cheaper Fares, No More Long Waits

As the worldwide aviation industry continues to suffer the effects of 9/11, India, for one, is trying to do something about it. The government in New Delhi, along with airlines in that country, are revamping, hoping to attract more passengers and boost revenues.

"The whole aviation policy is being framed with the consumer in mind. While the policy-making exercise is still underway, steps are being taken to set the pace for the smooth take-off of this industry," says one government official.

Civil Aviation Administrator Rajiv Pratap Rudy says the changes will be permanent.

Under the plan, private carriers will be allowed to fly international. Foreign airlines will be allowed to buy up to 49 percent of Indian-owned airline stock. Commuter airlines flying aircraft with fewer than 80 seats will be exempted from landing and navigation fees.

So far, reaction from the aviation industry on the subcontinent is mostly favorable. "Proposals like allowing domestic airlines to fly abroad, getting more carriers to India and smoothening the procedures at airports are easier to implement. What needs to be seen is how the government goes ahead with reducing levies on ATF," says Kapil Kaul, Vice President at the Center for Asia Pacific Aviation. But, he warned, "The government needs the political will to help the policy sail through smoothly."

It's all part of a new civil aviation policy in India, expected to be finished by the end of next month.

FMI: www.civilaviation.nic.in