Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet seek ATF price relief; say airline industry on verge of ‘stopping operations’

Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet have told the government that the country’s airline industry is under extreme stress and on the verge of “stopping operations”, as they sought revision in ATF pricing and financial support.

The West Asia turmoil has pushed up oil prices, and airspace restrictions have increased airlines’ operating costs, especially on long-haul routes. Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) accounts for around 40 per cent of a carrier’s operational expenses.