REGISTRAR GENERAL Vs. STATE OF MEGHALAYA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) In terms of the order dated 23-04-2019 respondent No. 21 (Zoom Airways) was given liberty to have instruction from the Ministry of Civil Aviation regarding extent of subsidies available under Regional Connectivity Scheme-UDAN (Sector Delhi/Hindon-Shillong), the concerned authority was also asked to make the position clear to the representatives of the Zoom Airways. It appears that the Ministry of Civil Aviation has vide its letter dated 26-04-2019 conveyed to the respondent No. 21 that subsidies and other benefits to the selected airlines under Regional Connectivity Scheme is available on the official websites of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Airport Authority of India (Implementing Agency).

(2.) Respondent No. 21 has filed an affidavit stating therein that the Regional Connectivity Scheme as exist today was formulated to address only the regional short duration flights as such, was not designed for long duration flights like the one between Shillong to Delhi. The viability cap funding is limited to flights only for length of 800 kms, an airliner which fly beyond 800kms will receive the same subsidy as for 800 kms length. Further, it has been reiterated that respondent No. 21 has desire to operate on the Shillong - Delhi route.

(3.) According to learned ASG appearing for Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airport Authority of India, the apprehension of respondent No. 21 is imaginary, the subsidy is linked with 50% of the seats and not linked with the length, the capping per seat is also on higher side which will take care of the financial implication of respondent No. 21.