All options open on AI: Civil Aviation Minister Asoka Gajapati Raju
Draft aviation policy also proposes to boost regional air connectivity
By : DC Correspondent
Update: 2014-11-11 04:30 GMT
New Delhi: The new aviation policy said that an expert committee would develop a future roadmap for the national carrier Air India. According to civil aviation minister Asoka Gajapati Raju, the ministry got several suggestions, including privatisation.
Regarding privatisation of Air India, the minister said this was a suggestion made by certain sections. “While some say privatisation is a solution, others say it should remain with the public sector. Another section says the airline should be managed professionally by professional bodies. Why should we close our options? Let us take a conscious decision,” the minister said.
The draft aviation policy also proposes to boost regional air connectivity, develop six major metro airports as international hubs and create more airports through PPP.
The rule that an Indian carrier can fly abroad only after five years of domestic operations will also be reviewed, the minister said. The draft will now be thrown open for wider consultations with all stakeholders, the minister said.