Air travel cost from Delhi to increase from May 15

New Delhi: Air travel cost from Delhi would go up from May 15 when higher user development fee (UDF) becomes effective for all domestic and international passengers while departing or arriving at the IGI Airport.

The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) had on April 25 decided to raise airport charges, including UDF, by a whopping 346 per cent for two years, with airlines protesting the move and saying they and the passengers would have to face the brunt of the massive hike.

The AERA's decision has been accepted by the government and notified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation now, official sources said.

From May 15, a departing international passenger, travelling over 5,000 kms, would have to pay Rs 1,068 as UDF and an arriving passenger Rs 881.10. For passengers who travel between 2,000 and 5,000 kms, a departing traveller would be paying Rs 845.50 and an arriving one Rs 699.17.

The international travellers flying short distances below 2,000 kms, would have to pay Rs 534 for departing from New Delhi and Rs 436 for arrival.

In the domestic sector, a departing passenger would pay Rs 462.80 for travel over 500 kms and an incoming passenger Rs 391.60. For travel up to 500 kms, a passenger would pay Rs 231.40 and Rs 195.80 for using the airport for departure or arrival.

This is the first time that even incoming passengers are being included in the ambit of UDF. The UDF rates applicable from May 15 would go up further next year, as per the AERA order.

The ticket prices would also get hiked depending on to what extent the airlines pass on the additional burden to passengers due to the hike in various airport charges, like those on landing, parking, navigation, fuel throughput and usage of CUTE (Common User Terminals).

Terming the move as "extremely disappointing", the airlines' global body, International Air Transport Association had earlier said the increase in airport charges would make Delhi "the world's most expensive airport."

Airline industry sources said the higher charges would not only burden the passengers at IGI Airport but also discourage foreign airlines from operating from New Delhi. The hike was, however, less than half of the 774 per cent hike sought by GMR-led joint venture Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).

It had said the increase in the airport charges was "inadequate" and "much below our expectations".