Airlines eyeing foreign ops to reduce fuel pain
DOMESTIC airlines are lobbying hard to fly overseas to avail the benefit of cheaper aviation fuel and keep spiralling operating costs under control. International carriers pay 35% less for fuel compared to domestic carriers. Aviation fuel prices have soared and with no immediate relief in sight, the government is taking a liberal view and may grant overseas flying rights to domestic carriers who are in the business for less than five years. Current rules don't allow such airlines (Kingfisher, SpiceJet, Indigo and GoAir) to fly abroad. The move will reduce their operating costs.