(a) Whether many of the Indian Airlines (IA) flights have been grounded
resulting in cancellation of flights in various sectors in the past few months;
(b) If so, the details thereof and the estimated loss to IA ;
(c) Whether the Government has taken any steps to restore and augment the
services of IA;
(d If so, the details thereof; and
(e) If not, the reasons therefor ?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION (SHRI PRAFUL PATEL)
(a) and (b): The cancellation rate of Indian Airlines and Alliance Air flights during
the last three months i.e. August,2006 to October, 2006 due to grounding of aircraft
for technical reasons was 0.23%. On account of these cancellations, the estimated
loss in terms of loss of contribution, cost of extra flying and expenditure on passenger
meals, hotel and transport has been Rs.110 lacs.
(c),(d) and (e): All technical delays and cancellations are investigated and remedial
action taken immediately. A meeting of the representatives of operating department
at the regional level is held every day. At the base station, delays and cancellations
are analyzed to identify repetitive nature of snags and special maintenance action
is immediately taken. At the Headquarters level, the punctuality of services is
monitored on a daily basis. Regular meetings are also held with the vendors or
manufacturers for bringing an improvement in the product and systems .