Date:14/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/14/stories/2006051403700900.htm

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We are alive to pilot shortage: Patel

T.S. Shankar

Foreigners allowed to fly as commanders on domestic routes

No communication problem
Airlines merger will help in optimal utilisation

Fuel price hike results in fare fluctuations, lower yields

Praful Patel

CHENNAI: The Civil Aviation Ministry is seized of pilot shortage. That is why the Directorate-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has allowed foreign nationals to fly as commanders of jet aircraft and as also small turbo-prop planes on domestic routes, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Praful Patel told The Hindu here on Saturday.

The foreign commanders did not have any "communication problem."

As there was a surge in the civil aviation sector, the DGCA permitted airline operators to engage foreigners as co-pilots as well.

"The operators are complaining that the DGCA is strict. But, I have not received any specific complaint that the regulator is complacent on flight safety."

Asked about the proposal to merge Indian (formerly Indian Airlines) and Air India, Mr. Patel said the need of the hour was "one big fleet, one entity, and one work culture." But there would be no retrenchment. The Ministry had made a presentation to the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister about the proposal, which would pave the way for optimal utilisation of both the workforce and fleet.

The Minister said the civil aviation sector was buoyant with a large number of people opting for air travel. At the same time, the industry was facing the problem of increase in the fuel price, resulting in fluctuating fares and lower yields to the operators.

Mr. Patel was apprised of the ongoing expansion of the Kamaraj domestic terminal by Chennai Airport Director Dinesh Kumar. Mr. Patel was in the city to participate in the swearing-in of DMK chief M. Karunanidhi.