BA's ultra-low fares to UK under DGCA lens

New Delhi: The government has taken a strong view of the low fares being offered by the international carrier British Airways. The civil aviation
regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has questioned the airline for indulging into “unfair trade practice”.
The London-based British Airways recently announced Rs 90 airfare to enter the Indian market. The airline had introduced a special fare of Rs 9,990 (excluding taxes, fees and surcharges) on all flights to London from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, just before Kingfisher started its maiden international flight on the Bangalore-London route.
It also recently introduced an introductory fare from Hyderabad to 22 North American destinations for Rs 990. “We have questioned them and asked for an explanation. The airline representatives today (Tuesday) clarified that they introduced the fare for a short period.
They also said that they have already withdrawn the special fare introduced on various routes. They are expected to explain everything in writing on Wednesday,” DGCA head Kanu Gohain told ET.
“As per bilateral agreement, we first give notice to the concerned airline and then consult with the respective government. We have asked BA to not mislead passengers, and in its marketing communication the actual fare should reflect,” he added.
British Airways opens its new Hyderabad sector with unbelievably low fares. British Airways commercial manager (South Asia) Amanda Amos said: “India is an important market for us and we are starting the new route with a fantastic low fare for our customers. We are targeting both the business and leisure traveller.”
05/11/08 Nirbhay Kumar and Chanchal Pal Chauhan/Economic Times

To Read the News in full at Source, Click the Headline

Categories: Foreign Nov 2008