US-India reach agreement on 'open skies'

US-India reach agreement on 'open skies'

Sunday, January 16, 2005 (Washington):

The United States and India have reached an open-skies aviation agreement that will lead to more flights, lower fares and stronger economic ties between the two countries.

The announcement came on Saturday, after three days of negotiations between US Transportation Secretary Norman Y Mineta and Indian Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel.

"The agreement means the two countries will be closer than ever before and begins a new era where American and Indian consumers. Airlines and economies can reap the rewards of cheaper flights, more choices and faster air service," said Mineta.

He claimed the agreement will strengthen commercial aviation in a number of ways, including more direct flights to serve the approximately two million passengers traveling between the two countries every year.

More freedom

The agreement allows airlines from both countries to select routes and destinations based on consumer demand, providing for open routes, capacity, frequencies, designations, and pricing.

It also allows for cooperative marketing arrangements. That includes code sharing with domestic Indian carriers to aid in making reservations and giving a greater choice of flights.

The deal also allows all-cargo operators to operate in either country without directly connecting to their homeland. (AP)

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