Govt can't bail out pvt airlines: Praful Patel

New Delhi, Aug 1: Responding private airlines calling a strike on Aug 18 to signify the need for a government bailout, the Aviation Minster, Praful Patel has said that the Government is in no position to provide aid and has warned the airlines against the strike.

"The government reiterates its advice to private airlines against suspending operations on August 18," Patel said.

He also reminded the airlines that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) could 'take appropriate action' under its regulatory powers if the flight schedules are disrupted to protect passengers' interest.

According to official sources, if the airlines do suspend the operation on Aug 18 that would mean that the schedules are disrupted. Any such move will be against the established rules and procedures of airline operations and the DGCA could take action.

On Friday, Jul 31, the major private carriers said that they could not continue operations due to the financial problems. Coming together under Federation of Indian Aviation (FIA), they said that the Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) taxes and taxes were becoming unbearable, apart from other charges.

OneIndia News