Follow protocol for MPs, government tells all airlines

NEW DELHI: Saying ta-ta to the practice of treating travelling dignitaries like Maharajas will not be possible even after Air India goes into private hands. The government has written to all airlines, airport operators and the aviation security regulator to ensure compliance with the “protocol/courtesy/support to members of Parliament (MPs) at airports.”

As India moves to an era of private airlines (except Alliance Air which will also be sold off soon) and an increasing number of PPP airports, the VIP culture could remain firmly in place.

“I am directed to say that instructions have been issued from time to time for extending protocol/courtesy/support to MPs at airports.