Airline executives present jet fuel cost data to government officials.
New Delhi – Major Indian carriers Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have sounded an alarm over the precarious financial health of the domestic aviation sector, warning that the industry is on the brink of ceasing operations. The airlines have jointly appealed to the government for urgent financial intervention and a review of the Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) pricing mechanism.
In a stark assessment of the situation, the airlines highlighted that the confluence of soaring jet fuel costs and restrictive airspace policies is pushing them towards an unsustainable operational model. They are reportedly seeking financial aid and a temporary deferment of excise duty on ATF to alleviate the immediate cost pressures.
The plea underscores the significant impact of global energy price volatility and domestic policy on the aviation industry’s viability. The Indian government’s response and potential policy adjustments will be critical in determining the future operational capacity of these key carriers and the broader health of the aviation sector in the country.