SC asks Centre to place on record new aviation rules, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to submit new aviation rules framed under the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024.
• These rules aim to regulate volatile airfares and predatory pricing practices in the civil aviation sector.
• The court granted the Centre two weeks to place the draft rules before it in a sealed cover.
• The petitioner argued that the new rules require public consultation before being tabled in Parliament.
• The rules are currently finalized and undergoing translation into Hindi and other official languages.

Detailed Insights:

• The Supreme Court is addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking binding regulatory norms for airfare and ancillary charges.
• The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, replaces the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934 to modernize India's aviation regulatory framework.
• The new legislation aims to align Indian aviation laws with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
• Concerns include airlines allegedly charging exorbitant prices during festive periods, holidays, and emergencies.
• The court's directive emphasizes the need for rationalized airfares and consumer protection in the aviation market.
• The petitioner highlighted the importance of public consultation to ensure transparency and inclusivity in rule-making.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024: A new Indian law replacing the Aircraft Act, 1934, to modernize civil aviation regulation and align with global standards.
• Predatory Pricing: An anti-competitive practice where dominant airlines lower fares to eliminate smaller competitors, then raise prices.
• Ancillary Charges: Additional fees for optional services beyond the basic air ticket, such as baggage, seat selection, or meals.
• Public Consultation: A process where draft policies or rules are published for feedback from stakeholders and the general public before finalization.