CPI Urges Action Against Skyrocketing Airfares

CPI National Secretary K Narayana appeals to Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu to control steep airfares. Narayana criticizes private airlines for profit-driven price hikes and calls for a regulatory body. He emphasizes connectivity's importance for development, amid soaring ticket costs and the absence of public airlines.

In a pressing appeal, Communist Party of India National Secretary K Narayana on Tuesday addressed Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, urging decisive action against "exorbitant" airfare pricing. Narayana's call to action stressed that airlines should not have free rein to inflate prices, especially during peak demand periods.

Highlighting the significance of connectivity in development, Narayana complimented Naidu for his efforts in linking Amaravati with various national and international cities. However, he expressed grave concerns over the 40 percent surge in airfares observed over the past year, pointing to unchecked and arbitrary pricing practices by private airlines.

Narayana's correspondence further alleged that private airlines prioritize excessive profits, to the detriment of passengers, leading to a dire travel situation due to the lack of public-sector airline options. He criticized private carriers for utilizing government-funded airports and infrastructure without providing any substantial amenities like complimentary refreshments.

He advocated for the establishment of a statutory, multi-party regulatory authority to govern fair pricing of air tickets, underscoring the government's stake in aviation infrastructure as a means to assert regulatory influence.