US regulator delays approval for code-sharing between Jet, United

New Delhi: The US aviation regulator has delayed permission to a code-sharing agreement between Jet Airways (India) Ltd and United Air Lines Inc. Meanwhile, it is preparing for a technical review of procedures at its Indian counterpart.
Code-sharing is a ticket-selling alliance that allows travellers to connect seamlessly to destinations on flights of more than one airline.
Jet Airways, the country’s largest airlines by passengers, has lodged a complaint against the delay at India’s civil aviation ministry, said a government official who did not want to be named.
The delay by the US Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, could be a toughening of stance ahead of its review—expected to start late February—of infrastructure and safety procedures followed by India’s regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation,or DGCA.
FAA typically assesses aviation safety procedures in countries to review if regulators in those countries enforce benchmarks set by the International Civil Aviation Organization. India currently enjoys a so-called category I status.
That’s why the delay in code-share permissions is surprising, the official said, adding that India intends to take this up through diplomatic channels.
An expert welcomed the FAA move to review procedures. “It’s a blessing...gives the needed push to get on the ball and improve matters,” said Robey Lal, former India country head of International Air Transport Association. “Its certainly a blessing for the passengers that we have at least someone looking into the aviation safety when the Indian aviation professionals are not doing so.”
03/02/09 Tarun Shukla/Livemint

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Categories: Foreign Feb 2009, Jet Airways Feb 2009, New Feb 2009