Shortage of aircraft could affect election tours

New Delhi: The strict implementation of security procedures by the Home Ministry for aircraft imports as also the shortage of helicopters could impact the election tour programme of politicians during the coming general elections.
Industry sources told Business Line that the Government is going strictly by the book when it comes to giving licences for imported aircraft.
The rules require that the name of the end-user be made available before permission is given for import. If a foreign aircraft is not registered domestically within 15 days of its reaching Indian shores, it has to go back to the country from where it came.
There have been at least three cases of aircraft being sent back as the owners were unable to get them registered in time. This and the shortage of helicopters in the country could affect the election travel plans of various political parties.
The main reason for the reluctance of the authorities to move swiftly on the issue arises out of the fear that the aircraft could be used for 9/11 type of acts.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation, which screens the import of aircraft for airlines and non-scheduled operators including charter companies, says no import proposal is pending with it.
“There are about 240 helicopters in the country, most of which have been given out on long-term lease already. With the sections in the Government firmly enforcing the rules for imports, there could be a shortage of aircraft during the elections,” sources said.
04/03/09 Business Line

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Categories: Indian Aviation- In General Mar 2009