Private operators of airports in India have been urged to avoid gold plating their facilities, according to a report by a parliamentary panel on airport modernization. The panel, led by Rajya Sabha member Sujeet Kumar, recommended that while airport terminals should be comfortable and efficient for travelers, there is no need for excessive opulence. The report emphasized the importance of developing world-class standards that are cost-effective and affordable for passengers, while remaining competitive with other airports in the Asia Pacific region.
The committee highlighted that the primary stakeholders in the aviation sector are the common passengers, whose desire to travel by air is expected to deepen as the economy grows. It further stressed the need for affordable and sustainable air travel, taking into account the price-conscious nature of passengers in a developing country like India. The financial feasibility of airport investments by private operators should adhere to the User Pays Principle, meaning that the funding should be recovered from user charges.
The panel acknowledged that while quality airport infrastructure contributes to a country’s international competitiveness and foreign investments, the main purpose for most travelers is to check in their baggage, proceed with their journey, and retrieve their baggage upon arrival. Therefore, it recommended placing greater importance on passenger service rather than peripheral aspects. The report aimed to strike a balance between developing top-notch airport facilities and ensuring affordability, as outlined in India’s national civil aviation policy.
By adhering to these guidelines, the parliamentary panel hopes to prevent private airport operators from going overboard with extravagant renovations and expenses, concentrating instead on providing efficient services and maintaining competitive pricing for the benefit of passengers. Ultimately, the focus remains on enhancing the passenger experience, upholding affordability, and striking a balance between opulence and functionality in airport modernization projects.
