Carriers find new way to pass on congestion levy to fliers

New Delhi: On the face of it, domestic carriers have bowed to the government’s diktat of withdrawing the congestion surcharge of Rs 150 per ticket. But this will provide no joy to the consumer. Here’s why. Jet Airways is replacing the congestion surcharge with another surcharge of Rs 150. Airlines such as Air Deccan are withdrawing the surcharge next week, but adding it to their basic fare. Other carriers, especially the low cost ones, are expected to follow suit next week.
Most carriers will take a final call on the issue after a hurriedly called meeting between Civil Aviation secretary Ashok Chawla and the head-honchos of various carriers on Monday. Earlier this week, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had given the airlines time till March 24 to find a way out out of the impasse. Delhi High Court had recently send legal notices to the government asking them on what grounds were airlines charging Rs 150 as congestion surcharge.
17/03/07 Sudipto Dey/Economic Times

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Categories: Airports Mar 2007, General Aviation Mar 2007