FlyDubai's India push hits turbulence

FlyDubai’s first flight to the north Indian city of Chandigarh has hit turbulence before it has even taken off, with Indian authorities refusing it permission for night landings and immigration unable to staff the airport.
Local daily the Times of India reported on Thursday the Indian Air Force has rejected an appeal by the fledgling budget carrier to wave restrictions on landing at night, throwing the future of route into question.
The Chandigarh airport in Punjab is controlled by the air force, which does not allow civilian planes to operate there after 10 p.m., according to the paper.
FlyDubai was scheduled begin flights to Chandigarh on July 23 to service the large number of expatriates from Punjab working in the UAE.
The flight was scheduled to arrive at 11 p.m. and return to Dubai 40 minutes later, the Times of India reported.
The problem “could affect the much-hyped service that has generated a lot of excitement in the region”, the newspaper said.
Meanwhile, the Times of India reported the immigration department is facing a “staff crunch” and will not be able to supply the staff needed to man passport control and customs.
05/07/09 Maktoob Business

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Categories: Foreign Jul 2009