Six Aew Airlines To Start Operations in 2015: Govt

Highlights: 

• According to the government,Six new airlines are expected to fly the Indian skies next year.
• The Govt. asked states to join hands to promote regional connectivity and help the aviation sector meet its burgeoning losses by reducing taxes on jet fuel.
• Most of the airlines in India are reported to have incurred losses and some airlines are struggling to stay afloat despite a high (air traffic) growth rate. 
• At present the Union Civil Aviation Minister is Ashok Gajapathi Raju.
• Earlier, AirAsia India has launched operations, Vistara, the Tata-SIA joint venture carrier, would start flights from 9th January 2015.
• AirAsia started its India operations in 2014.
• Earlier this year, three more companies - Quickjet Cargo Airlines, Ligare Aviation and LEPL Projects (Air Costa) - had been given air operator permits after they completed the process for launching new airlines.
• SpiceJet is struggling with its finances and reported huge losses in 2014.
• There is a high customs duty on import of private aircraft and helicopters also.