Ministry directs airlines to keep airfares affordable
This move aims to prevent excessive fare increases and ensure affordable air travel for passengers
The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has issued directives to airlines, urging them to refrain from unjustified fare hikes, particularly during periods of increased passenger traffic.
The ministry, in a letter addressed to airlines and aviation authorities including the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), expressed concern over reports of airfare increases in national dailies.
The letter, signed by Deputy Secretary Roksinda Farhana dated 12 December, specifically instructed authorities to ensure airlines maintain reasonable fares during peak travel seasons.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
This move aims to prevent excessive fare increases and ensure affordable air travel for passengers.
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) is planning to increase the existing excise duty on air tickets.
According to NBR sources, the current excise duty on local air tickets will increase from Tk500 to Tk700.
For SAARC countries, the duty will double from Tk500 to Tk1,000, while for international flights, it will rise from Tk3,000 to Tk4,000.
Sources also said the NBR might issue an order in this regard by Sunday.
Once implemented, air travelers will face an additional financial burden.
