Government has opposed a proposal of airport regulator AERA for evolving a mechanism to match tariff with the quality of services at Delhi airport, that would allow airlines and other users to pay less for any dip in standards.
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), which is in the process of taking a final decision on fixing a tariff structure for Delhi airport, had proposed to evolve a rebate mechanism for its users as a penalty for GMR—led Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) in case it did not adhere to the laid down service standards.
Noting that AERA could “only monitor the set performance standards” at the airport, the Civil Aviation Ministry has told the airport regulator that it would not be justified to prescribe a separate rebate mechanism as part of tariff determination.
Under existing law, AERA was not mandated to impose additional quality parameters and penalties over and above those prescribed in DIAL’s 2006 agreement with the government (Operation Management Development Agreement or OMDA), the Ministry is believed to have told AERA.
The DIAL has proposed an eight-fold (774 per cent) hike in airport charges for approval by AERA, claiming it was necessary to ensure financial sustainability of the new airport infrastructure.
The airport charges relate to landing, parking, X-ray baggage checks and other such activities.
This has been opposed by the airlines and other users on the grounds that the raise sought was massive. It would not only burden the cash-strapped airlines but would also discourage people from flying out of Delhi.