Government approves air services pact with Switzerland

New Delhi, Nov 24 (UNI) The government has approved the signing of protocol amending air services agreement between India and Switzerland.

Both countries will now have the right to designate as many airlines as they wish. Aviation safety and security clauses have also been added for revocation and suspension of operating authorisation by either country.

Issues relating to aviation security, safety and tariffs have been redrafted as per model standard clauses. Now the designated airlines of both sides may use leased aircraft from any company including other airlines subject to stipulated aviation security and safety provisions and according to its national laws and regulations.

The original air services agreement between India and Switzerland was signed on June 19, 1949. Subsequently a revised one was signed on May 2, 2001.

During the last round talks between the two countries held on June 1 and 2 this year, both sides agreed to modernise the existing air services agreement by amending certain provisions.

These amendments in the existing agreement is expected to spur greater trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchanges between the two countries besides bringing the agreement in tune with the developments in the international civil aviation.

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