Govt Extends Restrictions On Domestic Flights; Cap On Airfares To Remain In Effect Till November

As per the latest development, the union ministry has also decided to withhold the cap on domestic air fares by three months to 24 November or until further orders.

(Representative Image/ AFP)

New Delhi: In view of worsening Coronavirus situation, the Civil Aviation Ministry on Friday extended the restrictions on domestic flights till November 24. As per the latest development, the union ministry has also decided to withhold the cap on domestic air fares by three months to 24 November or until further orders. In a notice issued today, country's aviation watchdog Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said that it has implemented a cap on domestic airfare in view of Coronavirus outbreak.

pic.twitter.com/WjT1jbvop9

— DGCA (@DGCAIndia) July 24, 2020

All domestic and international flights were put on hold from March when the central government announced a nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of the novel Coronavirus. Almost two months after remaining suspended, the aviation ministry recommence domestic civil aviation operation from May 25 in a calibrated means. Elaborating the criteria drawn under 'calibrated means' , HS Puri explained that flights will operate to a limited extent. He mentioned that for the operation from Metro to Metro cities, 1/3rd capacity of approved summer schedule 2020, which is more than 33.33 per cent will operate. However, in a bid to revive the revenue-hit domestic sector, the ministry last month decided to increase the capacity of flight operations from 33 per cent up to 45 per cent. Puri also stated that the government decided to set a minimum and a maximum fare for these flights. In the advisory, the government also announced certain precautions and measures to be followed while operating the flights. For example, the cabin crew will be required to be in full protective gear. Only one check-in bag will be allowed. Passengers should report before at least 2 hours before departure time. Even passengers will require to wear protective gear, face mask and carry sanitizer bottle. Airlines shall not provide meal on board. Water bottles will be made available in gallery area or on seats.