MPs Slam ‘Skyrocketing Airfares’ and Demand Action from Regulators
NEW DELHI: Concerns over the “skyrocketing” airfare and perceived inaction by government agencies dominated the recent meeting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Parliament. Several Members of Parliament (MPs) called for accountability from private airport operators and airlines to provide much-needed relief to passengers.
Representative photo
Concerns Raised Over Regulatory Effectiveness
PAC chairperson K C Venugopal described the meeting as “one of the best” sessions, although it has previously been marked by fiery discussions along party lines. During the meeting, members expressed serious concerns that the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) is failing to act effectively as a regulator. Members stated that the AERA could not satisfactorily address the questions raised regarding the rising airfares.
Call for Legislative Amendments
One Congress MP highlighted the alarming trend of increasing airfares, insisting that there has been little action from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) or the Civil Aviation Department. Some MPs even suggested amending the AERA Act to enhance its effectiveness in regulating fares amid widespread dissatisfaction over arbitrary increases in user development fees and ticket prices.
Government Officials Present
The meeting saw the presence of both the civil aviation secretary and the AERA chairperson, who were called upon to respond to the members’ queries.
Looking for Solutions
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