Airlines say no to withdrawal of congestion surcharge

Mumbai: Domestic airlines are on a collision course with the civil aviation ministry over the issue of imposition of congestion surcharge. The airlines are planning to reject the ministry’s request for withdrawing the levy imposed to meet increased fuel expenses due to delayed landings at major airports.
All domestic airlines, except Indian, have been levying Rs 150 per ticket as congestion surcharge since December last year.
Sources close to the development said the ministry would formally request the airlines to withdraw the surcharge at a meeting with the representatives of the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) on Tuesday. The meeting is likely to be presided over by Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel.
The Delhi High Court recently asked the ministry to look into the issue. The court was hearing a case of public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the imposition of the levy. But airlines say they are losing huge amounts due to congestion and will not withdraw the surcharge.
10/03/07 PR Sanjai/Business Standard

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Categories: Airports Mar 2007, General Aviation Mar 2007