India’s Air Duopoly Under Scrutiny as Aviation Minister Calls for Stronger Competition

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the air sector needs more balance. He spoke after recent flight delays and rising fares in major cities. He said India needs at least five airlines with more than 100 aircraft each to avoid an air duopoly. He gave the remarks during a new interview in New Delhi this week. The issue gained attention as passengers faced high fares and sudden schedule changes.

According to reports from India Today and supported by coverage from Reuters, the minister said fare caps were used to calm the situation. He noted it was the first time such steps were taken in this way. He said the goal is to protect passengers and keep the market fair.

New Push to Break India’s Air Duopoly

Naidu said two major carriers now hold a large part of the market. He did not name them in this statement, but industry data shows IndiGo and Air India in dominant positions. He said this position has created stress for both passengers and smaller airlines. He said strong competition is the only long-term fix.

He also said IndiGo was not ready for new duty rules for pilots and crew. According to India Today, he said many passengers were not told early about delays or cancellations. He said this made the crisis worse. He asked airlines to give clear updates to all flyers.

The minister said a new Safran aircraft engine repair unit will open in Hyderabad. He said this will cut time and cost for engine work. Reuters has reported that India has been pushing for more local aviation repair centres. Naidu said this will help airlines plan better and avoid long ground delays.

What Stronger Competition Means for Passengers

The minister said fair market strength is key for both safety and price control. He said five strong airlines will help balance fares. He said this will stop sudden shocks when one major carrier faces a problem. He said the government is watching the sector closely.

Aviation experts say a more balanced market could help small cities. They say more routes may open if mid-size carriers grow. They also say delays may drop as airlines get more aircraft for backup use. These are points echoed in industry reports shared by AP News earlier this year.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: What is an air duopoly?

An air duopoly is when two major airlines control most of a country’s market. It can limit competition. It can also lead to higher prices and fewer options.

Q2: Why is India facing an air duopoly?

India has two large airlines with most market share. Other airlines are smaller and have fewer planes. This creates a gap in competition.

Q3: What steps did the government take?

The government set fare slabs for a short time. It asked airlines to share updates faster. It is also supporting new maintenance projects.

Q4: How will the new Safran MRO centre help?

It will allow engine repair work inside India. This will cut downtime for airlines. It may also lower operating costs.

Q5: Will this reduce flight delays?

Better repair access could help reduce delays. More aircraft and better planning can support on-time service. Results will take time to show.

The air duopoly debate will shape India’s aviation path in the coming months. The minister said the goal is clear and centred on passengers. He said a healthy market with fair choice is key for the future of India’s air travel.