Date:15/12/2002 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2002/12/15/stories/2002121503921100.htm

National

Discounts under review?

By Our Special Correspondent

New Delhi Dec. 14. The airlines in the domestic sector are reviewing the 50 per cent discount given to senior citizens in the basic fare. This was indicated by the Secretary, Civil Aviation, K. Roy Paul, on the sidelines of an International Conference on Aviation and Tourism.

Mr. Paul said airlines were reviewing the social sector discounts they offered to various categories of people, including senior citizens, armed forces, students, physically challenged and so on.

Indian Airlines, especially, which had to operate on several unprofitable routes for non-commercial reasons, was looking at ways and means of reducing unviable schemes and operations.

Indian Airlines sources said there was no proposal to cut the senior citizens discount although the policy was under review. The airline offers 50 per cent discount to women passengers who are 63 years and above and to male passengers above 65.

About 10 per cent of seats are reserved on all flights for senior citizens. Beyond that seats are given "subject to availability".

There is a view that with a nearly 50 per cent discount on Advanced Purchase Excursion Fares (APEX) which have to be bought 15 days in advance, airlines should have the flexibility in offering discounts in other categories.