Use BIA, cough up Rs 500

Use BIA, cough up Rs 500

November 15th, 2009
By Our Correspondent
Tags: Bangalore International Airport Ltd’s (BIAL), long-standing demand


Bengaluru, Nov. 14: Prepare to pay Rs 500 as user development fee every time you catch a flight from the city. The current UDF of Rs 260 for domestic passengers is likely to be hiked by around 60 per cent in accordance with airport operator Bangalore International Airport Ltd’s (BIAL) long-standing demand for an increase in the fee.
Sources in the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERAI), the newly-formed wing under the ministry of civil aviation, told Deccan Chronicle that BIAL’s appeal is under consideration. “BIAL had sought to increase UDF for domestic passengers to Rs 670 and for international passengers to Rs 1,050,” an AERAI official said.
But before the fee hike is approved, BIAL will have to submit details of expenditure on BIA to AERAI. “Once they furnish the details we will evaluate and announce the new tariffs. In all probability, the hike will be in the range of 50 to 60 per cent for domestic passengers but the UDF for international passengers may not be revised,” the official said.
The authority has also received requests for UDF hikes from other airports including those in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Delhi. AERAI will soon come out with standards for providing amenities and services that airport developers and operators will be required to adhere to.