Combating coronavirus: No decision on resuming flight operations, says Indian minister

Abu Dhabi - Airlines are advised to open their bookings only after a decision in this regard is taken by the government.

Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday, April 18, night clarified that no decision has been taken to open domestic or international operations.
"Airlines are advised to open their bookings only after a decision in this regard is taken by the government," Indian Minister for Civil Aviation, Hardeep S. Puri said.
The clarification came in the wake of the national carrier Air India's announcement earlier in the day that bookings will open for its select domestic flights from May 4 onwards and for international flights from June 1.
With these developments, any hopes of immediate repatriation for expats in the UAE remain uncertain.
On April 14, Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi had extended the nationwide lockdown till May 3 and it was believed that flight service will resume operations after that day.
However, Air India noted that in the light of the 'ongoing global health concerns', the airline is stopping all booking for all international services till May 31.
"Bookings for select domestic flights for travel from May 4 and for international flights for travel from June 1 onwards are open," Air India said.
Ticket bookings from June for both Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express are now open.
"The situation is being constantly reviewed and updated."
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com 

• India