Government may review 5/20 rule to let more Indian carriers fly abroad

New Delhi: India's cashstrapped aviation sector is celebrating an early Diwali this year with the arrival of deep pocket players like Singapore Airlines, Etihad and AirAsia on the scene. This sudden euphoria may see the government reviewing the current rule that an Indian airline must complete five years and have a fleet of at least 20 aircraft to start international flights.
"So far, low-cost carrier GoAir has applied for relaxation of the norm as it is over five years old but does not have 20 aircraft in its fleet. While we were favorably inclined to lower the 20-aircraft rule and retain the five-year bit, no final view has been taken so far. If the upcoming airlines also seek a review of the policy, we may have a comprehensive relook ," said sources.
Read News In full 21/09/13 Saurabh Sinha/Economic Times