Malaysia-based low-cost carrier (LCC) Air Asia is pushing for open skies rights for India. The issue is expected to come up for discussion in the meeting between the two governments on aviation bilaterals sometime this month.
"In the bilateral meeting, we will push for open skies for India, allowing us to connect any part of the country. India is a huge country and can become a huge market for us," said a senior Air Asia executive, on the sidelines of the launch of the Delhi-Kuala Lumpur flight. Open skies is an international policy concept which calls for the liberalisation of rules and regulations on international aviation industry especially commercial aviation. The policy allows both sides to fly as many flights to each others countries subject to availability of airport capacity. India already has an open skies policy with the US.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Flight crews stuck with 40 work hrs a week
Mumbai: Flight crews will have to continue to put in 10 extra hours of work every week until the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) comes up with new Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs). These CARS are regulations that govern duty hours of pilots and other crew. Replying to a petition filed by the
Indian Pilots Guild, Additional Solicitor General Darius Khambata told the Bombay High Court on Tuesday that the DGCA would have to prepare a draft CAR, publish it on its website, call for objections and suggestions and decide the same before issuing final CARs.
The Indian Pilots Guild challenged DGCA’s decision to allow Air India and Jet Airways to dispense with implementing part of the July 2007 CARs that deal with duty hours of flight crews.
The decision that was taken in May 2008 brought 1992 CARs back into force for the two airline flight crews resulting in hiking their flight duty from 30 hours to 40 hours a week.
The petitioners contended that though flight hours had been increased, the rest time had not been increased proportionately, and this disparity could lead to compromising safety of air passengers.
Their counsel, Rohit Kapadia, contended that DGCA could not escape procedure while altering or modifying CARs
Indian Pilots Guild, Additional Solicitor General Darius Khambata told the Bombay High Court on Tuesday that the DGCA would have to prepare a draft CAR, publish it on its website, call for objections and suggestions and decide the same before issuing final CARs.
The Indian Pilots Guild challenged DGCA’s decision to allow Air India and Jet Airways to dispense with implementing part of the July 2007 CARs that deal with duty hours of flight crews.
The decision that was taken in May 2008 brought 1992 CARs back into force for the two airline flight crews resulting in hiking their flight duty from 30 hours to 40 hours a week.
The petitioners contended that though flight hours had been increased, the rest time had not been increased proportionately, and this disparity could lead to compromising safety of air passengers.
Their counsel, Rohit Kapadia, contended that DGCA could not escape procedure while altering or modifying CARs
Low-cost carriers force Jet to pitch for new routes
As a string of low-cost carriers from West Asia and South-East Asia make a beeline for the lucrative Indian market, the country's largest airline Jet Airways is getting jittery. In a recent presentation to the civil aviation ministry, the airline sought new routes in the international sector, notably in Europe and South-East Asia.
Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal flew down to Delhi and shared his airline's future growth plans with the ministry. Goyal is believed to have asked the ministry to grant it rights to fly to Paris. The proposal was shot down by the ministry as the national carrier Air India already flies on that route.
The airline sought permission for providing connectivity to three-four points in Europe. These points could be Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and Milan, said an aviation expert. The carrier operates an international hub in Europe at Brussels and its international operations accounted for 56 per cent of total revenues for April-June 2010-11.
In its medium-term expansion plan, the carrier may be looking at getting a foothold in the North American cities of San Francisco, Los Angeles and Chicago, a source revealed. Jet Airways already operates code-share flights with American Airlines to Chicago. "The airline may start these routes in the next fiscal year, 2011-12, as it fits with its expansion plans," the source added. Its international operations achieved record seat factor of over 80 per cent in Q1 2010-11, continuing to post healthy operating margins. The inroads into the Indian market made by the recent entry of low-cost carriers like Malaysia's Air Asia and UAE's Air Arabia have added to Jet's woes. It has asked the ministry to grant it additional rights to fly to newer destinations in the region like Manila.
Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal flew down to Delhi and shared his airline's future growth plans with the ministry. Goyal is believed to have asked the ministry to grant it rights to fly to Paris. The proposal was shot down by the ministry as the national carrier Air India already flies on that route.
The airline sought permission for providing connectivity to three-four points in Europe. These points could be Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and Milan, said an aviation expert. The carrier operates an international hub in Europe at Brussels and its international operations accounted for 56 per cent of total revenues for April-June 2010-11.
In its medium-term expansion plan, the carrier may be looking at getting a foothold in the North American cities of San Francisco, Los Angeles and Chicago, a source revealed. Jet Airways already operates code-share flights with American Airlines to Chicago. "The airline may start these routes in the next fiscal year, 2011-12, as it fits with its expansion plans," the source added. Its international operations achieved record seat factor of over 80 per cent in Q1 2010-11, continuing to post healthy operating margins. The inroads into the Indian market made by the recent entry of low-cost carriers like Malaysia's Air Asia and UAE's Air Arabia have added to Jet's woes. It has asked the ministry to grant it additional rights to fly to newer destinations in the region like Manila.
Runway lights go dark, pilots get a shocktimes news network
Kolkata: Pilots of two SpiceJet flights that were approaching Kolkata airport to land had a scare on Monday night when the runway lights shut down at 9.30 pm and the tarmac remained dark for eight minutes as the diesel generator back-up failed to start.
The aircraft (from Jaipur and Mumbai) were asked to hover over the city till the snag could be fixed. Two planes lined up for take-off a SpiceJet flight to Ahmedabad and an IndiGo flight to Delhi were held on the tarmac during the period.
The power problem affected other sections of the airport for nearly two hours with Singapore Airlines staff having to use their personal laptops to check in passengers. Airport officials are still puzzled over what happened as the snag disappeared just as mysteriously as it cropped up.
"..The engineering wing is investigating why the snag happened," airport director R Srinivasan said.
According to sources, the captain of the SpiceJet flight from Jaipur saw the runway disappear around 9.30pm and reported the matter to the air traffic control tower at Kolkata airport, which immediately alerted department heads.
The back-up supplied by a diesel generator that starts automatically in case of a power failure, refused to start on Monday night. It remained that way for eight minutes before power to the runway lights were restored. The rest of the airport remained dark and restoration happened in phases
The aircraft (from Jaipur and Mumbai) were asked to hover over the city till the snag could be fixed. Two planes lined up for take-off a SpiceJet flight to Ahmedabad and an IndiGo flight to Delhi were held on the tarmac during the period.
The power problem affected other sections of the airport for nearly two hours with Singapore Airlines staff having to use their personal laptops to check in passengers. Airport officials are still puzzled over what happened as the snag disappeared just as mysteriously as it cropped up.
"..The engineering wing is investigating why the snag happened," airport director R Srinivasan said.
According to sources, the captain of the SpiceJet flight from Jaipur saw the runway disappear around 9.30pm and reported the matter to the air traffic control tower at Kolkata airport, which immediately alerted department heads.
The back-up supplied by a diesel generator that starts automatically in case of a power failure, refused to start on Monday night. It remained that way for eight minutes before power to the runway lights were restored. The rest of the airport remained dark and restoration happened in phases
we want apology from 'rude' pilot
Mumbai: Followers of spiritual guru Asaram Bapu created a ruckus at the Jaipur airport on August 22 over the alleged mistreatment meted out to him by the airline crew, including the pilot.
The guru and his supporters were travelling from Jaipur to Ahmedabad on a SpiceJet flight on August 22, when it got delayed by five hours. This led to an argument between the followers and airline crew. They have now demanded that the airline authorities initiate action against the pilot and the other crew.
Spicejet flight SG913 from Jaipur to Ahmedabad on August 22 was scheduled to depart at 2.10 pm when it got delayed due to a technical snag.
After a five-hour delay, when the flight was ready for departure at 7.30 pm, an argument ensued between Bapu and the pilot on board Captain Phusilo.
"...We were not even informed about the flight's status, else we would have asked Bapuji to return to the ashram, which is just a 15-minute drive from the airport," said Uday Sanghani, a senior ashram official.
"Moreover, the captain was very rude when the passengers complained about the delay. Later, when Bapuji interfered, the captain, who was a foreigner, asked him to either sit quietly or disembark. He even shouted at other passengers who raised an objection to this statement."
The passengers lodged a complaint at the Jaipur airport and also sent a fax and an email to SpiceJet, after which the airline employees apologised to Bapu.
"Three people from the airline came to our ashram in Ahmedabad and apologised personally to Bapuji. Also, the airline has assured that it will take appropriate action against the pilot in a day or two. If they do not keep their promise, we will take up the matter with the top authorities," added Sanghani.
The guru and his supporters were travelling from Jaipur to Ahmedabad on a SpiceJet flight on August 22, when it got delayed by five hours. This led to an argument between the followers and airline crew. They have now demanded that the airline authorities initiate action against the pilot and the other crew.
Spicejet flight SG913 from Jaipur to Ahmedabad on August 22 was scheduled to depart at 2.10 pm when it got delayed due to a technical snag.
After a five-hour delay, when the flight was ready for departure at 7.30 pm, an argument ensued between Bapu and the pilot on board Captain Phusilo.
"...We were not even informed about the flight's status, else we would have asked Bapuji to return to the ashram, which is just a 15-minute drive from the airport," said Uday Sanghani, a senior ashram official.
"Moreover, the captain was very rude when the passengers complained about the delay. Later, when Bapuji interfered, the captain, who was a foreigner, asked him to either sit quietly or disembark. He even shouted at other passengers who raised an objection to this statement."
The passengers lodged a complaint at the Jaipur airport and also sent a fax and an email to SpiceJet, after which the airline employees apologised to Bapu.
"Three people from the airline came to our ashram in Ahmedabad and apologised personally to Bapuji. Also, the airline has assured that it will take appropriate action against the pilot in a day or two. If they do not keep their promise, we will take up the matter with the top authorities," added Sanghani.
Indian media mogul's airline takeover delayed
A move by Indian television mogul Kalanithi Maran to take majority control of profitable no-frills airline SpiceJet has been delayed, two weeks after the carrier said it planned to buy another 30 Boeing 737-800 passenger jets as part of an aggressive fleet expansion.
Chennai-based Maran, one of the richest men in India with a net worth of more than A$3 billion, announced in June that he was buying an initial 37.7 per cent of SpiceJet and would offer to buy another 20 per cent from August 6 to August 25 as required under India’s takeover rules.
But Enam Securities, lead manager of the offer, said in letter to the Bombay Stock Exchange dated August 6 that the offer dates were being changed and a revised schedule would be announced after the market regulator, the Securities Exchange Board of India, had approved the draft letter of offer. The update was released on August 12.
Aviation newcomer Maran hopes to tap into a domestic air travel market expected to grow at better than 20 per cent this year to more than 45 million passengers.
Maran, through his private company KAL Airways, is paying 7.39 billion rupees (A$184 million) for the first 37.7 per cent of SpiceJet, and had offered to pay about 4.79 billion rupees (A$119 million) for another 20 per cent.
Maran bought his 37.7 per cent stake from the airline’s original promoter, London-based Indian businessman Bhupendra (Bhulo) Kansagra, and New York equity-fund investor W.L. Ross.
Since Maran’s entry in June, Dubai World’s investment arm Istithmar has sold its 13 per cent stake, leaving only Goldman Sachs with 6 per cent and the Tata Group’s Ewart Investments with 5.5 per cent as the remaining large investors outside the promoters
Chennai-based Maran, one of the richest men in India with a net worth of more than A$3 billion, announced in June that he was buying an initial 37.7 per cent of SpiceJet and would offer to buy another 20 per cent from August 6 to August 25 as required under India’s takeover rules.
But Enam Securities, lead manager of the offer, said in letter to the Bombay Stock Exchange dated August 6 that the offer dates were being changed and a revised schedule would be announced after the market regulator, the Securities Exchange Board of India, had approved the draft letter of offer. The update was released on August 12.
Aviation newcomer Maran hopes to tap into a domestic air travel market expected to grow at better than 20 per cent this year to more than 45 million passengers.
Maran, through his private company KAL Airways, is paying 7.39 billion rupees (A$184 million) for the first 37.7 per cent of SpiceJet, and had offered to pay about 4.79 billion rupees (A$119 million) for another 20 per cent.
Maran bought his 37.7 per cent stake from the airline’s original promoter, London-based Indian businessman Bhupendra (Bhulo) Kansagra, and New York equity-fund investor W.L. Ross.
Since Maran’s entry in June, Dubai World’s investment arm Istithmar has sold its 13 per cent stake, leaving only Goldman Sachs with 6 per cent and the Tata Group’s Ewart Investments with 5.5 per cent as the remaining large investors outside the promoters
International Aviation Body Says Industry Growth Continues
The leading aviation organization says the global industry continues to grow, with international passenger and freight traffic rising in July. Speaking in Australia, the International Air Transport Association chief executive says he is "cautiously optimistic" about the rest of the year.
The International Air Transport Association predicts that 2010 will be a good year for the 230 airlines it represents.
The optimism is fueled by strong growth in first and business class ticket sales. However, IATA expects growth to slow in the coming months because of weakening consumer demand.
Chief executive Giovanni Bisignani forecasts that the global aviation industry will earn about $2.5 billion in 2010, following two years of losses, should the international economic recovery continue.
The IATA boss says profits will be pushed by stronger demand in Asia, the Middle East and South America, while business in debt-hit Europe remains gloomy.
In July, international passenger demand was up by more than 9 percent, while cargo rose 22 percent.
Bisignani, who is visiting Sydney, said Wednesday the strength of the upturn has come as a surprise
The International Air Transport Association predicts that 2010 will be a good year for the 230 airlines it represents.
The optimism is fueled by strong growth in first and business class ticket sales. However, IATA expects growth to slow in the coming months because of weakening consumer demand.
Chief executive Giovanni Bisignani forecasts that the global aviation industry will earn about $2.5 billion in 2010, following two years of losses, should the international economic recovery continue.
The IATA boss says profits will be pushed by stronger demand in Asia, the Middle East and South America, while business in debt-hit Europe remains gloomy.
In July, international passenger demand was up by more than 9 percent, while cargo rose 22 percent.
Bisignani, who is visiting Sydney, said Wednesday the strength of the upturn has come as a surprise
Domestic air cargo: Achievement Exceeds Targets
There is a shortfall in achieving the targets of international cargo in the year 2008-09 & 2009-10 & domestic cargo in the year 2007-08 & 2008-09 due to global economic slow down. However, the achievement exceeds the targets in domestic cargo during the year 2009-10.
Airports Authority of India (AAI) has forecasted the growth of International cargo and Domestic cargo at all the airports taken together @10% & 15% during the year 2010-11 & 2011-12; @ 10% & 12% during the year 2012-13 & 2014-15 respectively taking 2009-10 as the base year.
The steps taken and proposed to be taken to strengthen cargo facilities at various airports are given below:
Steps taken/proposed to be taken to strengthen Cargo Facilities
Kolkata Airport
· The Phase I of New Integrated Cargo terminal (NICT) admeasuring 19150 sqms was made fully operational in 2008 thereby augmenting the total area to 21906 sqms with annual capacity of 1.25 lakh Metric Tonne (MT).
· The Phase I of the NICT is provided with Elevated transfer Vehicle (ETV) in the export wing and the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS & RS) in the Import wing for automated Cargo handling operations and usage of space vertically.
· As per the cargo estimation, the existing capacity of Kolkata Airport is sufficient to meet the requirement till 2020.
Chennai Airport
· Phase III/IV of the New Integrated Cargo terminal, with latest Automated Storage and Retrieval System is under construction at Chennai Airport enhancing the area from 35920 sqms to 54620 sqms. With the commissioning of this project, the annual cargo handling capacity would rise from 3.5 lakh MT to 5.15 lakhs MT.
· As per the cargo estimation, the existing capacity of Chennai Airport is sufficient to meet the requirement till 2020.
· In addition to augmentation of the space, it is proposed to add more facilities for automation and mechanization for speedy clearance of cargo at metro Cargo Terminals. The following actions have been planned:
o To handle export cargo by conveyor belts
o Scissor lift at Truck Dock area for handling loose cargo and shipper loaded Unit Load Devices(ULDs) for bonded truck operations
o Up-gradation of Old NT Hub (Net Transaction) for WEB based EDI (Electronic data Interexchange) transaction.
Coimbatore Airport
· At Coimbatore Airport, AAI has further augmented the international export/import cargo annual handling capacity from 18950 MT to 31240 MT.
· Steps are being taken to implement EDI under Customs ICES Version 1.5 to facilitate the trade.
Amritsar Airport
· EDI under ICES Version 1.5, for white shipping bills (for No Customs Duty Draw back) has been implemented by the Customs Authorities.
· Further steps are being taken to implement EDI for green shipping bills (for Customs Duty Draw back) under Customs ICES Version 1.5 to facilitate the trade.
IGI Airport, Delhi
DIAL has entered into a Joint Venture with CELEBI for modernization of existing integrated brown field cargo (Terminal Size: 70,000 Sq. Mtrs) & also awarded 2nd a concession to Cargo Service Centre for development of Green field cargo (Terminal Size: 50,000 Sq. Mtrs) operation. Additionally DIAL has also identified areas for proposed development of supporting Cargo infrastructure eg. Facilities for Forwarders/Logistics and Special Handling etc. There is a proposed expansion of the Cargo Apron to cater to the cargo aircraft movement increase.
Bengaluru International Airport, Devenahalli
· Establishment of Cargo village for 200 agents and freight forwarder.
· Providing rent-free space to animal quarantine, plant quarantine and drug controllers’ office.
· Increase in vertical storage space to cater to increasing cargo.
· Introduction of mezzanine floor in one of the cargo terminals in the future.
· Streamlining of cargo transactions through e-trade initiative and in-house software.
Future expansion plans in respect of other AAI managed airports
* Cargo terminal at Port Blair Airport has been taken over from Andaman & Nicobar Administration. Modalities are being finalized to commence the domestic cargo operations from the said Terminal.
* Construction of the Cargo terminal at Srinagar Airport is in the planning stage.
* Considering the demand of the trade, viability study for constructing the Cargo Terminal at Surat Airport is being done by AAI to know the future potential for planning the Terminal.
* Viability study for constructing the Cargo Terminal at Pune Airport has been completed by AAI and the matter is submitted to the appropriate authority for ‘in principle’ approval
* The proposed Air Cargo Terminal at Patna airport is planned in joint venture between AAI and the state govt. (Bihar Industrial Area Development Authority [BIADA]).
* Under CPC policy, AAI has identified the sites for establishing cold storage facility at Agartala, Dimapur & Guwahati Airports.
Airports Authority of India (AAI) has forecasted the growth of International cargo and Domestic cargo at all the airports taken together @10% & 15% during the year 2010-11 & 2011-12; @ 10% & 12% during the year 2012-13 & 2014-15 respectively taking 2009-10 as the base year.
The steps taken and proposed to be taken to strengthen cargo facilities at various airports are given below:
Steps taken/proposed to be taken to strengthen Cargo Facilities
Kolkata Airport
· The Phase I of New Integrated Cargo terminal (NICT) admeasuring 19150 sqms was made fully operational in 2008 thereby augmenting the total area to 21906 sqms with annual capacity of 1.25 lakh Metric Tonne (MT).
· The Phase I of the NICT is provided with Elevated transfer Vehicle (ETV) in the export wing and the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS & RS) in the Import wing for automated Cargo handling operations and usage of space vertically.
· As per the cargo estimation, the existing capacity of Kolkata Airport is sufficient to meet the requirement till 2020.
Chennai Airport
· Phase III/IV of the New Integrated Cargo terminal, with latest Automated Storage and Retrieval System is under construction at Chennai Airport enhancing the area from 35920 sqms to 54620 sqms. With the commissioning of this project, the annual cargo handling capacity would rise from 3.5 lakh MT to 5.15 lakhs MT.
· As per the cargo estimation, the existing capacity of Chennai Airport is sufficient to meet the requirement till 2020.
· In addition to augmentation of the space, it is proposed to add more facilities for automation and mechanization for speedy clearance of cargo at metro Cargo Terminals. The following actions have been planned:
o To handle export cargo by conveyor belts
o Scissor lift at Truck Dock area for handling loose cargo and shipper loaded Unit Load Devices(ULDs) for bonded truck operations
o Up-gradation of Old NT Hub (Net Transaction) for WEB based EDI (Electronic data Interexchange) transaction.
Coimbatore Airport
· At Coimbatore Airport, AAI has further augmented the international export/import cargo annual handling capacity from 18950 MT to 31240 MT.
· Steps are being taken to implement EDI under Customs ICES Version 1.5 to facilitate the trade.
Amritsar Airport
· EDI under ICES Version 1.5, for white shipping bills (for No Customs Duty Draw back) has been implemented by the Customs Authorities.
· Further steps are being taken to implement EDI for green shipping bills (for Customs Duty Draw back) under Customs ICES Version 1.5 to facilitate the trade.
IGI Airport, Delhi
DIAL has entered into a Joint Venture with CELEBI for modernization of existing integrated brown field cargo (Terminal Size: 70,000 Sq. Mtrs) & also awarded 2nd a concession to Cargo Service Centre for development of Green field cargo (Terminal Size: 50,000 Sq. Mtrs) operation. Additionally DIAL has also identified areas for proposed development of supporting Cargo infrastructure eg. Facilities for Forwarders/Logistics and Special Handling etc. There is a proposed expansion of the Cargo Apron to cater to the cargo aircraft movement increase.
Bengaluru International Airport, Devenahalli
· Establishment of Cargo village for 200 agents and freight forwarder.
· Providing rent-free space to animal quarantine, plant quarantine and drug controllers’ office.
· Increase in vertical storage space to cater to increasing cargo.
· Introduction of mezzanine floor in one of the cargo terminals in the future.
· Streamlining of cargo transactions through e-trade initiative and in-house software.
Future expansion plans in respect of other AAI managed airports
* Cargo terminal at Port Blair Airport has been taken over from Andaman & Nicobar Administration. Modalities are being finalized to commence the domestic cargo operations from the said Terminal.
* Construction of the Cargo terminal at Srinagar Airport is in the planning stage.
* Considering the demand of the trade, viability study for constructing the Cargo Terminal at Surat Airport is being done by AAI to know the future potential for planning the Terminal.
* Viability study for constructing the Cargo Terminal at Pune Airport has been completed by AAI and the matter is submitted to the appropriate authority for ‘in principle’ approval
* The proposed Air Cargo Terminal at Patna airport is planned in joint venture between AAI and the state govt. (Bihar Industrial Area Development Authority [BIADA]).
* Under CPC policy, AAI has identified the sites for establishing cold storage facility at Agartala, Dimapur & Guwahati Airports.
DGCA guidelines help airlines improve on-time performance
Measures by Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in July have improved the on time performance of airlines in Mumbai up to 75 percent, the civil aviation ministry said on Thursday. It also said that show cause notices had been issued to airlines that have not been able to stick to the norms.
“Following the strict enforcement of the DGCA’s procedure by airlines to mitigate flight delays, there has been significant improvement in the On Time Performances (OTP) of airlines. In Delhi, the OTP has risen from 15-20 per cent to 50-60 per cent. In Mumbai it has risen from 40-50 per cent to 70-75 per cent and in other airports, the OTP these days is 90 to 92 per cent,” said a press release by the civil aviation. “The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the DGCA have been monitoring the performances of the airlines on day-to-day basis. Show cause notices have been issued to a number of airlines on delays. The ministry has also alerted that airlines which miss slots frequently will not get their desired slots in the winter schedule,” a spokesperson said. The DGCA and the ministry are also mulling over plans to crack down on airlines for delay in arrivals. This will be achieved by ensuring that the arriving aircraft at Mumbai is not allowed to take off from the originating airport, if it is delayed.
“Following the strict enforcement of the DGCA’s procedure by airlines to mitigate flight delays, there has been significant improvement in the On Time Performances (OTP) of airlines. In Delhi, the OTP has risen from 15-20 per cent to 50-60 per cent. In Mumbai it has risen from 40-50 per cent to 70-75 per cent and in other airports, the OTP these days is 90 to 92 per cent,” said a press release by the civil aviation. “The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the DGCA have been monitoring the performances of the airlines on day-to-day basis. Show cause notices have been issued to a number of airlines on delays. The ministry has also alerted that airlines which miss slots frequently will not get their desired slots in the winter schedule,” a spokesperson said. The DGCA and the ministry are also mulling over plans to crack down on airlines for delay in arrivals. This will be achieved by ensuring that the arriving aircraft at Mumbai is not allowed to take off from the originating airport, if it is delayed.
DGCA Re-iterates Rule for Pre-flight Medical Examination of crew for alcohol consumption
In view of the fact that in the recent past, it has been observed that the Pre Flight Medical Check (PFMC) prescribed by the DGCA as a Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) is not being conducted regularly, it is once again reiterated that these requirements should be fulfilled meticulously at all base stations and other stations where crew change takes place and records maintained.
Any discrepancy/laxity in this regard will be viewed seriously and may attract penal action.
The CAR requires the following for the flights:
• For flights originating in India at least 40% of Flight Crew members and 20% of Cabin Crew members shall be subjected to Pre flight Medical Check for alcohol consumption herein after referred as ‘PFMC’. For scheduled operators this percentage shall be on daily basis and for operators other than scheduled the percentage shall be worked out on fifteen-calendar day’s basis.
• For flight destination outside India, stations where more than ten crew changes takes place in a calendar week, ‘PFMC’, shall be carried out at least once in a month. At all other foreign destinations ‘PFMC’ shall be done at least once in a period of two months.
• At foreign destinations complete set of Flight Crew members and Cabin Crew Member shall be subjected to ‘PFMC’.
Any discrepancy/laxity in this regard will be viewed seriously and may attract penal action.
The CAR requires the following for the flights:
• For flights originating in India at least 40% of Flight Crew members and 20% of Cabin Crew members shall be subjected to Pre flight Medical Check for alcohol consumption herein after referred as ‘PFMC’. For scheduled operators this percentage shall be on daily basis and for operators other than scheduled the percentage shall be worked out on fifteen-calendar day’s basis.
• For flight destination outside India, stations where more than ten crew changes takes place in a calendar week, ‘PFMC’, shall be carried out at least once in a month. At all other foreign destinations ‘PFMC’ shall be done at least once in a period of two months.
• At foreign destinations complete set of Flight Crew members and Cabin Crew Member shall be subjected to ‘PFMC’.
Goyal says open to diluting up to 20% stake in Jet Air
Mumbai: Even as Jet Airways awaits final clearance from the Government for its $400-million fund raising plan, Mr Naresh Goyal, Chairman and promoter, said on Thursday, he is open to diluting up to 20 per cent of his holding.
“I am comfortable with anything up to 20 per cent,” said Mr Goyal, responding to reporters' queries on Jet's fund raising plans and dilution of his stake in return. He was speaking on the sidelines of the company's annual general meeting.
At present, Mr Goyal holds nearly 80 per cent in Jet Airways through Tail Winds Ltd. The company had sought FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) approval to raise $400 million through QIP (Qualified Institutional Placement) in October 2009.
It was in 2007 that Jet had expressed its intention to raise $400 million through a rights issue and at that time Mr Goyal was open to diluting 5-10 per cent of his promoter holding. However, that plan did not take off due to unfavourable market conditions. In April 2008, he announced that he was open to all sources of funding and that the rights issue would follow once the “markets settled”
“I am comfortable with anything up to 20 per cent,” said Mr Goyal, responding to reporters' queries on Jet's fund raising plans and dilution of his stake in return. He was speaking on the sidelines of the company's annual general meeting.
At present, Mr Goyal holds nearly 80 per cent in Jet Airways through Tail Winds Ltd. The company had sought FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) approval to raise $400 million through QIP (Qualified Institutional Placement) in October 2009.
It was in 2007 that Jet had expressed its intention to raise $400 million through a rights issue and at that time Mr Goyal was open to diluting 5-10 per cent of his promoter holding. However, that plan did not take off due to unfavourable market conditions. In April 2008, he announced that he was open to all sources of funding and that the rights issue would follow once the “markets settled”
Mangalore crash: More damages for rich?
The families of victims of May 22 Air India crash at Mangalore airport have alleged discrimination, saying that higher salaried individuals who lost their lives on that ill-fated flight got more money as compensation than lower-salaried ones.
According to the Montreal Convention, the compensation to victims of air crash may reach a maximum of $160,000 (Rs 76 lakh), but the legal adviser to Mangalore crash victims has alleged that this rule was violated when at least two families got Rs 90 lakh as compensation based on the income of the victims that ranged between Rs 80,000 and Rs 1.2 lakh per month.
Other passengers alleged that Air India has also discriminated between men who were killed and women and children.
Harpreet Singh, general manager (quality management system), Air India, said its legal team could best respond to the allegation as the airline has been following the Montreal Convention guidelines. "I'm surprised at the variation. The legal team is working as per the rules as insurance is involved," she added.
Meanwhile, insurance officials said that there are two types of accident policies for airline passengers. The first is a personal accident cover and the second is a liability accident policy. Under the airline liability insurance policy, the passenger is entitled to the full compensation as per the Montreal Convention. The personal accident policy covers the total sum insured as mentioned in the policy and this has no relation to the salary of the person. The question of salary income arises only during the time of taking the policy, the officials said.
According to the Montreal Convention, the compensation to victims of air crash may reach a maximum of $160,000 (Rs 76 lakh), but the legal adviser to Mangalore crash victims has alleged that this rule was violated when at least two families got Rs 90 lakh as compensation based on the income of the victims that ranged between Rs 80,000 and Rs 1.2 lakh per month.
Other passengers alleged that Air India has also discriminated between men who were killed and women and children.
Harpreet Singh, general manager (quality management system), Air India, said its legal team could best respond to the allegation as the airline has been following the Montreal Convention guidelines. "I'm surprised at the variation. The legal team is working as per the rules as insurance is involved," she added.
Meanwhile, insurance officials said that there are two types of accident policies for airline passengers. The first is a personal accident cover and the second is a liability accident policy. Under the airline liability insurance policy, the passenger is entitled to the full compensation as per the Montreal Convention. The personal accident policy covers the total sum insured as mentioned in the policy and this has no relation to the salary of the person. The question of salary income arises only during the time of taking the policy, the officials said.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
IAF’s pilot selection process gets high-tech and ‘accurate’
The Indian Air Force (IAF) will in another three years put in place a new system to select fighter pilots for its cutting edge and high performance aircraft fleet, it was announced Thursday.
The computerized mechanism developed by India’s defence scientists ‘accurately’ evaluates the multi-tasking qualities of a candidate, like psychomotor, information processing, coordination and visualisation skills, said Manas K. Mandal, director of the Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR).
The IAF and the premier Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) jointly developed the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) that took nearly 10 years to take a practical shape.
The computerized mechanism developed by India’s defence scientists ‘accurately’ evaluates the multi-tasking qualities of a candidate, like psychomotor, information processing, coordination and visualisation skills, said Manas K. Mandal, director of the Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR).
The IAF and the premier Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) jointly developed the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) that took nearly 10 years to take a practical shape.
India Gearing Up for GAGAN Launch
India's very own satellite navigation system GAGAN (GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation) is all set to be launched by India soon. GAGAN is a satellite based navigational system that would be used to aid air traffic controllers to track and improve the efficiency of air traffic over the Indian air space.
The system has been jointly developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and will comply with International Civil Aviation Organization standards. What the GAGAN aims to achieve is to improve the efficiency of the entire aviation sector in India with the help of increased fuel savings, better traffic management and decreased workload on air traffic controllers
The system has been jointly developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and will comply with International Civil Aviation Organization standards. What the GAGAN aims to achieve is to improve the efficiency of the entire aviation sector in India with the help of increased fuel savings, better traffic management and decreased workload on air traffic controllers
Engine fault grounds 9 Kingfisher jets
Two of India’s leading private carriers have had problems in the recent past with a widely-used engine fitted on Airbus aircraft resulting in stepped-up spending on maintenance, and in one case, idling of a part of its fleet.
Kingfisher, India’s second-largest carrier by market share, has grounded 12 of its aircraft out of a total fleet of 69, while IndiGo, a low-cost carrier, says problems it had earlier faced have now been fixed. The engine, manufactured by a JV between four aviation companies, including Pratt & Whitney and Rolls Royce, is fitted on aircraft belonging to the Airbus A320 family.
The Vijay Mallya-owned airline confirmed to ET that it is facing a problem with the engine, known as V2500 A-5, and has had to ground some of its aircraft.
“Some IAE V2500 engines fitted on the narrow-body fleet of Kingfisher Airlines have experienced technical issues with the HPC stage 3-8 drum assembly, amongst other things. ...A total of nine aircraft were grounded of which three are expected to re-enter service in a span of two weeks once their engines are returned after overhaul,” the spokesman for Kingfisher said.
Kingfisher, India’s second-largest carrier by market share, has grounded 12 of its aircraft out of a total fleet of 69, while IndiGo, a low-cost carrier, says problems it had earlier faced have now been fixed. The engine, manufactured by a JV between four aviation companies, including Pratt & Whitney and Rolls Royce, is fitted on aircraft belonging to the Airbus A320 family.
The Vijay Mallya-owned airline confirmed to ET that it is facing a problem with the engine, known as V2500 A-5, and has had to ground some of its aircraft.
“Some IAE V2500 engines fitted on the narrow-body fleet of Kingfisher Airlines have experienced technical issues with the HPC stage 3-8 drum assembly, amongst other things. ...A total of nine aircraft were grounded of which three are expected to re-enter service in a span of two weeks once their engines are returned after overhaul,” the spokesman for Kingfisher said.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Jet Airways posts strong growth in passenger load factors for July 2010
Capitalising on the improvement in global business and holiday passenger traffic to overseas destinations, Jet Airways has again achieved notable seat factors of over 83.1 per cent for its international operations. The airline has clocked a strong 27.8 per cent growth in international revenue passengers which stood at 3.89 lakh in July 2010 as compared to the same period last year.
Jet Airways carried 7.82 lakh domestic revenue passengers in July 2010, while the seat factor for the airline's domestic operations also stood at an impressive 73.8 per cent, a marked improvement over the same period last year. This at a time that is considered the slack travel season, especially for domestic travel given the onset of the monsoons bodes well for the airline, as it has helped Jet Airways clock ten consecutive months of impressive growth in passenger traffic and also retain its overall market leadership.
JetLite, the wholly owned subsidiary of Jet Airways India Ltd,
Jet Airways carried 7.82 lakh domestic revenue passengers in July 2010, while the seat factor for the airline's domestic operations also stood at an impressive 73.8 per cent, a marked improvement over the same period last year. This at a time that is considered the slack travel season, especially for domestic travel given the onset of the monsoons bodes well for the airline, as it has helped Jet Airways clock ten consecutive months of impressive growth in passenger traffic and also retain its overall market leadership.
JetLite, the wholly owned subsidiary of Jet Airways India Ltd,
AAI to return UDF to passengers flying from Ahmedabad Airport
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) has decided to return User Development Fees (UDF) to passengers who booked their departures from Ahmedabad Airport from August 16- September 1, 2010. According to a report in Ahmedabad Mirror, the decision came after the opening of new international terminal was delayed. The Rs 310 crore terminal was suppose to become operational on August 15, 2010. Earlier this month, the government had approved a proposal of the AAI to levy UDF at nine modernised airports, including Ahmedabad.
“The passengers who had booked their tickets from August 16- September 1, 2010 and paid UDF will get the refund. They can claim their money from their agents or respective airlines,” said an Airport Authority official. In Ahmedabad, domestic passengers are required to pay Rs 121 while international fliers pay Rs 458 as UDF.
“The new terminal operations have been delayed and UDF cannot be charged before the new terminal becomes operational. The UDF will now be applicable from September 1, 2010,” said a source at the airport.
“The passengers who had booked their tickets from August 16- September 1, 2010 and paid UDF will get the refund. They can claim their money from their agents or respective airlines,” said an Airport Authority official. In Ahmedabad, domestic passengers are required to pay Rs 121 while international fliers pay Rs 458 as UDF.
“The new terminal operations have been delayed and UDF cannot be charged before the new terminal becomes operational. The UDF will now be applicable from September 1, 2010,” said a source at the airport.
GoAir increases its fleet with ninth A320, to introduce services to four new routes soon
GoAir today announced the expansion of its network strength with its ninth A320. Air travel traffic is increasing and GoAir is looking forward to address this growth by introducing new aircraft and new routes. The company is expected to announce more aircraft and routes in the next one or two months.
Commenting on this occasion, Kaushik Khona, Chief Executive Officer, GoAir said, “The ninth aircraft strikes the right note for our winter travel season. Following the introduction of the new aircraft, we will be operating 890 commercial flights per week under the new winter schedule. We plan to add the tenth A320 by October 2010 and also introduce four new routes. We are gearing up to address the increasing air travel traffic.”
The average flown load factors of GoAir during June 2010 were 84 per cent. From the period April 2009 -March 2010, GoAir flew 2.41 million passengers thus achieving a 153 per cent growth rate in passenger traffic. GoAir also recorded a 0.57 per cent average in cancellations that was substantially lower than the industry average of 2.37 per cent during June 2009 and May 2010.
According to this expansion programme, GoAir is increasing the overall frequency within its network by increasing commercial flight operations from 730 flights to 890 commercial flights per week.
Commenting on this occasion, Kaushik Khona, Chief Executive Officer, GoAir said, “The ninth aircraft strikes the right note for our winter travel season. Following the introduction of the new aircraft, we will be operating 890 commercial flights per week under the new winter schedule. We plan to add the tenth A320 by October 2010 and also introduce four new routes. We are gearing up to address the increasing air travel traffic.”
The average flown load factors of GoAir during June 2010 were 84 per cent. From the period April 2009 -March 2010, GoAir flew 2.41 million passengers thus achieving a 153 per cent growth rate in passenger traffic. GoAir also recorded a 0.57 per cent average in cancellations that was substantially lower than the industry average of 2.37 per cent during June 2009 and May 2010.
According to this expansion programme, GoAir is increasing the overall frequency within its network by increasing commercial flight operations from 730 flights to 890 commercial flights per week.
Service tax on Air Travel
Service tax on air travel has been imposed on international air travel for a passenger embarking in India and travelling in higher (other than economy) classes with effect from 01.05.2006. Vide the Finance Act,2010, Service tax on air travel was expanded to cover international travel (economy class) and domestic travel. The rates of service tax on air travel are as under:
• service tax on domestic passenger transport services at the rate of 10% of the gross value or Rs. 100/-per trip, whichever is lower is levied. the journeys to/from airports situated in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Bagdogra in West Bengal are exempted.
• Air Transport Service to international passenger travelling in economy class and embarking in India at the rate of 10% of the gross value or Rs. 500/- per trip, whichever is lower.
The following services at the airports have been kept free from service tax:
• Certain basic activities undertaken within airports have been kept out of the tax such as (a) supply of water, (b) supply of electricity, (c) treatment of persons by a dispensary, hospital, nursing home or multi-spaciality clinic (except cosmetic or plastic surgery service), (d)services provided by a school or centre to provide formal education other then those services provided by commercial coaching or training centre, (e) services provided by fire service agencies , and (f) pollution control services from the whole of the service tax leviable thereon under section 66 of the finance Act.
• Commercial and Industrial construction services in relation to airport.
• Abatements to certain services such as 'Renting of a cab', Erection, Commissioning & Installation Services', Goods Transport Agency service' and certain construction services would be available when provided wholly within an airport under the new definition of airport services.
Warehousing of agriculture products and cold storage facilities under' Storage & Warehousing Service, transport of export goods in an aircraft by an aircraft operator and site information and clearance, excavation and demolition services etc. when provided in the course of construction of airport.
This information was given by Minster for Civil Aviation, Shri Praful Patel in Lok Sabha today.
• service tax on domestic passenger transport services at the rate of 10% of the gross value or Rs. 100/-per trip, whichever is lower is levied. the journeys to/from airports situated in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Bagdogra in West Bengal are exempted.
• Air Transport Service to international passenger travelling in economy class and embarking in India at the rate of 10% of the gross value or Rs. 500/- per trip, whichever is lower.
The following services at the airports have been kept free from service tax:
• Certain basic activities undertaken within airports have been kept out of the tax such as (a) supply of water, (b) supply of electricity, (c) treatment of persons by a dispensary, hospital, nursing home or multi-spaciality clinic (except cosmetic or plastic surgery service), (d)services provided by a school or centre to provide formal education other then those services provided by commercial coaching or training centre, (e) services provided by fire service agencies , and (f) pollution control services from the whole of the service tax leviable thereon under section 66 of the finance Act.
• Commercial and Industrial construction services in relation to airport.
• Abatements to certain services such as 'Renting of a cab', Erection, Commissioning & Installation Services', Goods Transport Agency service' and certain construction services would be available when provided wholly within an airport under the new definition of airport services.
Warehousing of agriculture products and cold storage facilities under' Storage & Warehousing Service, transport of export goods in an aircraft by an aircraft operator and site information and clearance, excavation and demolition services etc. when provided in the course of construction of airport.
This information was given by Minster for Civil Aviation, Shri Praful Patel in Lok Sabha today.
Jet Airways log strong growth in July, 2010
Capitalizing on the improvement in global business and holiday passenger traffic to overseas destinations, Jet Airways, India’s premier international airline, has yet again achieved impressive seat factors of over 83.1% for its international operations. The airline has clocked a strong 27.8% growth in international revenue passengers which stood at 3.89 lakh in July 2010 as compared to the same period last year.
Jet Airways carried 7.82 lakh domestic revenue passengers in July 2010, while the seat factor for the airline's domestic operations also stood at an impressive 73.8%, a marked improvement over the same period last year. This at a time that is considered the slack travel season, especially for domestic travel given the onset of the monsoons bodes well for the airline, as it has helped Jet Airways clock ten consecutive months of impressive growth in passenger traffic and also retain its overall market leadership.
JetLite, the wholly owned subsidiary of Jet Airways India Ltd, has similarly posted a 16% increase in revenue passengers, carrying over 3.27 lakh in July 2010. JetLite also clocked a buoyant seat factor of 76.8% for July 2010, aided by improved services and enhanced on time reliability, which have enabled the airline to improve its penetration in the value carrier segment.
According to Mr. Nikos Kardassis, CEO, Jet Airways, “The organization’s strong performance for the tenth-consecutive month highlights, that we are the preferred airline carrier both internationally and in India for our guests. Jet Airways has retained the leadership position in an increasingly competitive market thanks to several initiatives such as constant product and service innovation, newly introduced codeshares, improved On Time Performance, all of which has manifested itself in superior service quality, greater reliability and enhanced connectivity for our guests. More importantly, it has been the unwavering dedication and commitment of our employees that have played a decisive role in helping retain our leadership in the India aviation sector, while staying one step ahead of the growth curve.”
12/08/10 PRESS RELEASE/Jet Airways
Jet Airways carried 7.82 lakh domestic revenue passengers in July 2010, while the seat factor for the airline's domestic operations also stood at an impressive 73.8%, a marked improvement over the same period last year. This at a time that is considered the slack travel season, especially for domestic travel given the onset of the monsoons bodes well for the airline, as it has helped Jet Airways clock ten consecutive months of impressive growth in passenger traffic and also retain its overall market leadership.
JetLite, the wholly owned subsidiary of Jet Airways India Ltd, has similarly posted a 16% increase in revenue passengers, carrying over 3.27 lakh in July 2010. JetLite also clocked a buoyant seat factor of 76.8% for July 2010, aided by improved services and enhanced on time reliability, which have enabled the airline to improve its penetration in the value carrier segment.
According to Mr. Nikos Kardassis, CEO, Jet Airways, “The organization’s strong performance for the tenth-consecutive month highlights, that we are the preferred airline carrier both internationally and in India for our guests. Jet Airways has retained the leadership position in an increasingly competitive market thanks to several initiatives such as constant product and service innovation, newly introduced codeshares, improved On Time Performance, all of which has manifested itself in superior service quality, greater reliability and enhanced connectivity for our guests. More importantly, it has been the unwavering dedication and commitment of our employees that have played a decisive role in helping retain our leadership in the India aviation sector, while staying one step ahead of the growth curve.”
12/08/10 PRESS RELEASE/Jet Airways
Domestic ops at Delhi Airport’s T3 to start only by September end
Domestic travellers will get to see the swanky Terminal 3 (T3) at Delhi’s IGI Airport only by September end, a month late, as a host of problems including erratic power and water supply plague the facility.
The decision to postpone domestic operations, which was to start from T3 on August 27, was taken after civil aviation minister Praful Patel visited the terminal on Thursday “The position will be reviewed by the minister in mid-September, following which a decision on date of shifting of domestic operations to T3 will be taken,” said a statement from the Civil Aviation Ministry.
“Presently, the quality of power supply is erratic, which is affecting the sophisticated baggage handling and security equipment at the terminal,” said the ministry statement.
Delhi Trancco was to set up a 220KVA sub-station by July 31. But now, DTL representatives have expressed their inability to commission the it before September 15.
Also, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), which was to supply three MLD water to the airport, has failed to fulfil the requirement, the statement said. Apart from it, connectivity from the domestic terminal to T3 was a problem.
During the minister’s visit, it was felt that completion of the underpass connecting the Dwarka junction to the central spine at Mahipalpur was necessary for alternative connectivity to T3 before the domestic operations begin.
The road will ease traffic congestion to T3 as there is only one approach for the new terminal via National Highway 8 (NH-8), the ministry said. “The Metro line connecting T3 to central Delhi also is not yet ready and is likely to become operational only in mid-September. So, keeping these factors in mind, it was decided to keep the shifting of domestic flight operations to T3 in abeyance,” the ministry said
Mr Patel along with secretary civil aviation M Madhavan Nambiar, director general Civil Aviation (DGCA) Nasim Zaidi, chairman AAI, VP Agarwal and senior officers from the ministry of civil aviation, DIAL, Air India and BCAS visited the new terminal, inaugurated on July 3 by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
The terminal was opened for international flights on July 28 and airlines such as Air India, Jet Airways and Kingfisher were supposed to start using it for domestic flights from August 27.
The decision to postpone domestic operations, which was to start from T3 on August 27, was taken after civil aviation minister Praful Patel visited the terminal on Thursday “The position will be reviewed by the minister in mid-September, following which a decision on date of shifting of domestic operations to T3 will be taken,” said a statement from the Civil Aviation Ministry.
“Presently, the quality of power supply is erratic, which is affecting the sophisticated baggage handling and security equipment at the terminal,” said the ministry statement.
Delhi Trancco was to set up a 220KVA sub-station by July 31. But now, DTL representatives have expressed their inability to commission the it before September 15.
Also, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), which was to supply three MLD water to the airport, has failed to fulfil the requirement, the statement said. Apart from it, connectivity from the domestic terminal to T3 was a problem.
During the minister’s visit, it was felt that completion of the underpass connecting the Dwarka junction to the central spine at Mahipalpur was necessary for alternative connectivity to T3 before the domestic operations begin.
The road will ease traffic congestion to T3 as there is only one approach for the new terminal via National Highway 8 (NH-8), the ministry said. “The Metro line connecting T3 to central Delhi also is not yet ready and is likely to become operational only in mid-September. So, keeping these factors in mind, it was decided to keep the shifting of domestic flight operations to T3 in abeyance,” the ministry said
Mr Patel along with secretary civil aviation M Madhavan Nambiar, director general Civil Aviation (DGCA) Nasim Zaidi, chairman AAI, VP Agarwal and senior officers from the ministry of civil aviation, DIAL, Air India and BCAS visited the new terminal, inaugurated on July 3 by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
The terminal was opened for international flights on July 28 and airlines such as Air India, Jet Airways and Kingfisher were supposed to start using it for domestic flights from August 27.
Airline code-share to prop up NE aviation
The civil aviation ministry may allow scheduled domestic carriers to code-share with non-scheduled airlines in the north eastern states such as Assam, Manipur and Nagaland to improve air connectivity in the region. A core group under the ministry would finalise the modalities of such pact this week.
A code-share pact allows airlines to cross-sell each others’ tickets and share their infrastructure.
“A final decision on the issue would be taken shortly in consultation with DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation),” a senior official in the ministry said.
An executive of a private airline said that the move would not help much as code-share with non-scheduled carriers would carry a lot more liability.
“In case non-scheduled airline cancels its flight or there is loss of baggage, we may have to share the cost of compensation to passengers,” the executive said.
Civil aviation secretary MM Nambiar on Friday called a meeting of all the scheduled carriers, including Jet Airways, IndiGo and SpiceJet, and asked them to add flights to far flung areas especially union territories like Lakshadweep and Port Blair.
The present route dispersal guideline requires all the scheduled airlines in the country to deploy 10% of the total capacity on trunk routes (category I routes) on category II sectors, such as Guwahati and Bagdogra and 1% of the capacity deployed on category I routes on category IIA routes such as Lakshadweep (Agatti) and Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar.
The government has decided to take several measures, including extension of watch hours at some of the airports in the north-east region. It is also considering a demand of the eastern states to start direct flights to the region from Delhi and Mumbai.
“New airports are also coming up in the region which would further improve connectivity. A dedicated airline for the North East is also in the pipeline,” the government official said.
A code-share pact allows airlines to cross-sell each others’ tickets and share their infrastructure.
“A final decision on the issue would be taken shortly in consultation with DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation),” a senior official in the ministry said.
An executive of a private airline said that the move would not help much as code-share with non-scheduled carriers would carry a lot more liability.
“In case non-scheduled airline cancels its flight or there is loss of baggage, we may have to share the cost of compensation to passengers,” the executive said.
Civil aviation secretary MM Nambiar on Friday called a meeting of all the scheduled carriers, including Jet Airways, IndiGo and SpiceJet, and asked them to add flights to far flung areas especially union territories like Lakshadweep and Port Blair.
The present route dispersal guideline requires all the scheduled airlines in the country to deploy 10% of the total capacity on trunk routes (category I routes) on category II sectors, such as Guwahati and Bagdogra and 1% of the capacity deployed on category I routes on category IIA routes such as Lakshadweep (Agatti) and Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar.
The government has decided to take several measures, including extension of watch hours at some of the airports in the north-east region. It is also considering a demand of the eastern states to start direct flights to the region from Delhi and Mumbai.
“New airports are also coming up in the region which would further improve connectivity. A dedicated airline for the North East is also in the pipeline,” the government official said.
Towards a new, safe beginning in Indian skies
The spate of aerial mishaps in India can make anyone quake in his boots while boarding an aircraft. The tragic Mangalore crash along with a serial bunch of near misses has put the spotlight on safety in Indian skies. Experts have questioned India’s airline safety record and there seem to be more questions than solutions on this front.
At this juncture, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) have come together to create a unique navigation platform. The satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS) is slowly becoming the talk of the aviation town. The final operation phase of the country’s GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) was formally launched recently by civil aviation minister Praful Patel, raising new expectations on the safety front.
The GAGAN system, being developed by AAI and Isro, envisages a network of ground stations and satellites that would ensure greater navigational accuracy and also continuity of signals for aircraft. This system will not become operational for civil aviation until June 2013, but signals from the system for non aviation uses such as surveying or search and rescue are expected to be available as early as March next year once the space component is in place.
A satellite-based augmentation system helps pilots check the accuracy of the GPS data they receive and alerts them about a correction within six seconds. It would also render easier the task of aircraft separation for air traffic controllers besides saving costs on instrument landing systems on runways.
The need for a satellite based augmentation system arises because the current GPS constellation cannot support requirement for all phases of flight and the integrity is not guaranteed as satellites are not monitored at all time.
The technology demonstration phase of the Rs 700-crore project was completed in 2007 as part of which eight ground stations were installed at different airports across the country. A total of 15 stations will make up the ground segment.
The space component of the system comprises three payloads in a geostationary orbit. These satellites will help in getting signals corrected according to the accuracy specified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. The first of the payloads was slated for launch on the GSAT-4 satellite, but the failure of the launch vehicle GSLV D3 in April has caused a setback.
According to the AAI’s roadmap, the space payloads are expected to be in place by November....
At this juncture, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) have come together to create a unique navigation platform. The satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS) is slowly becoming the talk of the aviation town. The final operation phase of the country’s GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) was formally launched recently by civil aviation minister Praful Patel, raising new expectations on the safety front.
The GAGAN system, being developed by AAI and Isro, envisages a network of ground stations and satellites that would ensure greater navigational accuracy and also continuity of signals for aircraft. This system will not become operational for civil aviation until June 2013, but signals from the system for non aviation uses such as surveying or search and rescue are expected to be available as early as March next year once the space component is in place.
A satellite-based augmentation system helps pilots check the accuracy of the GPS data they receive and alerts them about a correction within six seconds. It would also render easier the task of aircraft separation for air traffic controllers besides saving costs on instrument landing systems on runways.
The need for a satellite based augmentation system arises because the current GPS constellation cannot support requirement for all phases of flight and the integrity is not guaranteed as satellites are not monitored at all time.
The technology demonstration phase of the Rs 700-crore project was completed in 2007 as part of which eight ground stations were installed at different airports across the country. A total of 15 stations will make up the ground segment.
The space component of the system comprises three payloads in a geostationary orbit. These satellites will help in getting signals corrected according to the accuracy specified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. The first of the payloads was slated for launch on the GSAT-4 satellite, but the failure of the launch vehicle GSLV D3 in April has caused a setback.
According to the AAI’s roadmap, the space payloads are expected to be in place by November....
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