In a major relief measure for the aviation industry, the Government of India has announced a 25% reduction in landing and parking charges for domestic airlines at airports across the country, aiming to ease the financial pressure caused by the ongoing West Asia crisis and rising global fuel prices.
The announcement was made by Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, who said the decision is part of the government’s broader effort to support domestic carriers and keep air travel affordable for passengers during the current global disruptions.
Relief Measures to Support Aviation Sector
The aviation sector worldwide has been facing serious challenges due to soaring crude oil prices, which have sharply increased the cost of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) — one of the largest operational expenses for airlines.
To cushion domestic carriers from the global surge in fuel prices, the Indian government had earlier capped the increase in ATF prices for domestic airlines at 25%, despite global fuel prices rising by more than 100%.
Now, to further reduce operational costs, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has cut landing and parking charges by 25% for domestic flights, a move expected to help airlines maintain stable airfares.
Three-Month Reduction in Airport Charges
According to the ministry, the 25% reduction in landing and parking fees will remain in effect for three months.
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) has directed all major airports to immediately implement the reduced charges for domestic airlines.
Any financial losses resulting from the reduced tariffs will be adjusted during the next tariff review cycle, which is scheduled for the upcoming five-year control period.
Non-Major Airports Also Covered
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has also been instructed to implement the same 25% reduction in landing and parking charges at non-major airports for domestic flights.
This ensures that airlines operating across both major metropolitan airports and smaller regional airports will benefit from the relief measures.
Government Aims to Prevent Airfare Hikes
Speaking about the decision, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the government remains committed to protecting passengers from rising airfares despite global challenges.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has consistently worked to make flying affordable and convenient for passengers. Even though global ATF prices have risen sharply, we ensured that the increase for domestic airlines remained limited to 25%,” he said.
The minister added that the reduction in airport charges is part of a comprehensive strategy to stabilize airline operations and prevent a steep rise in ticket prices.
Financial Impact of the Relief Package
The government estimates that the move will reduce total landing and parking charges at major airports by around ₹400 crore over the next three months.
Industry experts believe the decision will provide significant short-term financial relief to domestic carriers, allowing them to manage rising operational costs while maintaining flight schedules.
Monitoring the Situation Closely
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said it is closely monitoring the evolving global situation and remains in constant dialogue with key stakeholders, including:
- Domestic airlines
- Airport operators
- Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA)
- Airports Authority of India (AAI)
Officials indicated that additional measures could be introduced if the crisis continues to impact aviation operations.
Despite global uncertainties, India’s aviation sector has shown strong resilience, and the government’s latest intervention aims to ensure stability, operational continuity, and affordable air travel for passengers across the country.
