Hyderabad:Flying 'economy' might soon be a utopian dream, at least for Hyderabad's frequent flyers. Already forced to shell out a hefty user development fee (UDF) of Rs 484 (in the domestic sector), charged over and above the actual airfare, the city's 'jet-setting' janata is likely to be further burdened with a few extra bucks, in the near future.
According to highly-placed aviation industry sources, a clear indication of such 'turbulent' times ahead, is the recent rise in UDF at the New Delhi airport. The facility at the national capital, like in Hyderabad, is run by the GMR Group.
Beginning April 1, 2013, the UDF charge at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), has jumped by anywhere between Rs 20 and Rs 50. And while this might seem like a nominal amount on paper, industry analysts said it is likely to hit passengers significantly. Those set to suffer the hardest blow are travelers flying out of either mana Hyderabad or Kolkata.
11/04/13 Sudipta Sengupta/Times of India
