Why babus don't fly cheap

Delhi: If you believe that sarkari babus should be content with their ample pay packages, perks and other facilities from the government, think again. They have other modes of earning as well. Official tours are not only free, but also give them an opportunity to make some quick money, which is naturally not accounted for.
MiD DAY has learnt that government affiliated travel agents in Delhi lure the babus into either booking their tickets on International Air Transport Association (IATA) rates (three to four times higher than the market fares) and offer a free ticket for a companion, or give them tickets at market price issuing them a bill for IATA fares. The money difference is refunded to the babus by the agent but only after keeping their cuts.
In a reply to a recent RTI plea, Air India said that as government employees have time constraints and require flexible and least restrictive fares, they always opt for IATA fares. "IATA fares are governed by IATA regulations and fixed tariff rules. They can be used for travel on any airline operating between origin and destination, are flexible, have nil or minimal restrictions and seats are always guaranteed at these fares in view of their high levels," the reply said.
However when MiD DAY contacted a government accredited travel agent, posing as a government official whose trip to Bangkok has been approved, he had a different story to tell. After seeking a few details, an agent of Balmer Lawrie, the travel company, sitting at Udyog Bhawan said: "We can offer you a great deal if you are interested. We will provide you a ticket for one of your family members also and that too free of cost for the same destination. But you will have to book the ticket at IATA fares, which is generally two to three times higher than the market price. There would be no mention of the additional ticket anywhere in the bill."
When MiD DAY refused the complementary ticket, the agent immediately offered the reporter a new deal.
23/02/11 Amit Singh/MiD DAY

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Categories: Indian Aviation- In General Feb 2011