Praful warns airlines against cartelisation

Civil aviation minister Praful Patel on Wednesday has warned airlines not to cartelise. The warning comes a day after all major airlines announced fare hikes. The fare hikes were unexpected since fuel prices have come down drastically since last year.

Praful Patel says action will be taken against airlines if they act like a cartel to hike fares. "The civil aviation ministry is against catelisation among airlines. We will keep a watch and take strict action in any such case."

Air India will not be part of any airline cartel, says Praful Patel. "The national carrier Air India will never be a part of it (any cartel) and will ensure that competitive pricing ensures better prices to passengers," he said.