Question : GROUND HANDLING SERVICES BY DOMESTIC CARRIERS

(a) whether the Government have finally given nod to private domestic carriers to carry out ground handling activities;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the number of airlines to whom such permission has been given;

(d) whether airlines have been permitted to participate in the Airport Upgradation Schemes also;

(e) if so, the details thereof;

(f) by when the new proposal is likely to be implemented;

(g) whether foreign airlines have been debarred from such activities in violation of bilateral aviation agreements; and

(h) if so, the reasons thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION ( SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY )

(a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g) & (h) :- A Statement is laid on the Table of the Sabha.

Statement in reply to parts (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g) & (h) of Lok Sabha Starred Question No.17 for answer on 21.7.2003 regarding Ground Handling Services by Domestic Carriers.

(a), (b) & (c) :- As per existing Airports Authority of India (General Management, Entry For Ground Handling Services) Regulations 2000 at present in force, all private airlines are permitted to carry on ground handling services at airports on self handling basis.

(d):- No, Sir.

(e) & (f) :- Do not arise.

(g) :- No, Sir.

(h) :- Does not arise.