(a) whether the Government has introduced the concept of scheduled regional airlines in order
to increase air connectivity between smaller cities;and
(b) if so,the details of operators operating as scheduled regional airlines in the Southern
Region,particularly in Andhra Pradesh?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION(SHRI PRAFUL PATEL)
(a)and(b):- Yes,Sir.Directorate General of Civil Aviation(DGCA)has issued Civil Aviation
Requirements for scheduled regional air transport service with a view to promote air connectivity
within a region,expand air travel services for Tier II and Tier III cities and between specific
regions.There are four regions identified as North,South,West,East/North-East coinciding with
the Flight Information Regions(FIRs)as defined by the Airports Authority of India(AAI).The
regional airlines are not permitted to operate on category I routes.However,the regional
airlines of the southern region which has 3 metros would be allowed to operate between the
metros within the southern region namely Bangalore,Chennai and Hyderabad.
The Government has issued initial NOC to operate Scheduled Air Transport (Regional) Service to
M/s. Star Aviation for Southern Region.The company is yet to commence its operation.