GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO: 4537

ANSWERED ON:17.12.2009

NORMS FOR AIRLINES

ANANT KUMAR HEGDE

(a) whether International carriers operating to India have eligibility norms relaxed as compared to Indian carriers who seek to operate on international sectors;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(c) whether private airlines operators of India have represented to the Government for a level playing field in this regard; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATIONbe pleased to state:

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

(SHRI PRAFUL PATEL)

(a) & (b): The operation of scheduled international air services is governed by the provisions of the bilateral Air Services Agreements between India and the respective country.Under the bilateral agreement, the respective country has the right to designate an airline(s) for operation of services to the territory of the other country. While designating a carrier for operations, the Government of India follows its own criteria. Other countries follow criteria stipulated by their authorities.

(c) & (d): No, Sir.