Question : AIR SERVICES ON KOCHI -AGATTI SECTOR

(a) whether it is a fact that the Dornier aircraft now used by Indian Airlines in the Kochi-Agatti sector is getting grounded frequently resulting in cancellation of services without notice;

(b) if so, whether the Government would consider other alternatives including introduction of 46 seater ATR plane on this sector;

(c) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;

(d) whether any private airline has expressed interest to operate in this sector; and

(e) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION ( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

(a): No, Sir. During the period August, 2005 to October, 2005, out of 156 flighs, there were only 13 cancellations of Dornier flights. Of these only 4 cancellations were due to technical problems of the Dornier aircraft.

(b)and (c): Indian Airlines` subsidiary, Alliance Air is in the process of acquiring smaller capacity ATR aircraft on lease. These aircraft are planned to be based at Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. Services between Kochi and Agatti with ATR aircraft could then be considered subject to commercial viability.

(d)and (e): Government has laid down Route Dispersal Guidelines with a view to achieve better regulation of air transport services to different regions of the country. As such, all airlines are free to operate anywhere in the country subject to compliance of Route Dispersal Guidelines issued by the Government. Government would accord necessary clearances to private airlines in case they file their schedule for operating on this sector.