Infrastructure of 80 airports to be upgraded by 2009: Patel

Mumbai, Mar 1 (UNI) Infrastructure will be upgraded and out of nearly 80 airports in the country, nearly half will be modernised and upgraded by 2009 Union minister of state for civil Aviation Praful Patel today said.

The climate is very conducive for the Aviation industry and domestic travel is the backbone of the industry which has the capacity of 50 per cent growth, he added.

He said the government wants to have more connectivity not only confined to metros but to the regions also.

Speaking at a function 'Take off' organised by BBC world here, Mr Patel while talking via video conferencing to the event, said the budget could have been better for the industry.

He admitted the Budget has lesser focus on the Aviation industry, which is growing at a rate of 25 per cent per year.

Jeh Wadia, Managing Director GoAir, stressed the need for giving some incentives to the low cost carriers.

Kapil Kaul, CEO Centre of Asia Pacific Association, stressed the need that some benefits in the fuel like sales tax, can change the situation.

Mr Patel accepted their suggestions and said efforts would be made particularly for fuel. He said like in the aviation industry, there could be the competition among the petroleum companies also for the supply of fuel.

UNI