(a) whether the Gulf bound passengers are made to pay more in terms of air fare in comparison with the air fares to other destinations;
(b) if so, the details of the fares charged by Air India and Indian Airlines to different destinations;
(c) whether the Government have received any request from the Government of Kerala for rationalising the fares; and
(d) if so, the action taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION ( SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY )
(a): No, Sir.
(b): Do not arise.
(c): Yes, Sir.
(d): Air fares for operation on international sectors are decided at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Tariff Coordination Conferences, which are attended by representative airlines. These fares are unanimously agreed to by all airlines operating on the concerned route. However market dynamics and product features like frequency, timing, direct/indirect operation, nature of traffic and seasonality etc. also influence airfares. The fares being charged by Air India and Indian Airlines on India-Gulf sectors are therefore very competitive. Government of Kerala has also been apprised of the position.