Govt asks airlines not to suspend operations

Government today virtually ruled out any bail-out for the bleeding private airlines and warned them of "appropriate action" if flight schedules were disrupted and the carriers said they would reconsider their protest decision if their difficulties are addressed.

"The government reiterates its advice to private airlines against suspending operations on August 18," Civil Aviation

Minister Praful Patel said in a statement.

Maintaining that state taxes on aviation turbine fuel had been an issue even before several present carriers came into existence, he said that the government cannot be expected to extend financial help to loss-making private carriers.

Patel, who renewed his appeal to the private carriers for negotiations, also said the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) could "take appropriate action" under its regulatory powers to protect passengers' interest.