The grounding of Boeing Co.’s 737 Max 8 aircraft by India’s aviation regulator could lead to a surge in airfares, though it is unlikely to affect the long-term plans of SpiceJet Ltd and Jet Airways (India) Ltd, the only Indian operators of these planes.
Director general of civil aviation B.S. Bhullar told reporters on Wednesday that airlines had been advised to keep fares at a regular level. Lifting of restrictions on B737 Max 8 aircraft, Bhullar said, would be decided based on inputs from overseas regulators and Boeing. “There is no question of future deliveries of Boeing Max 737 until we allow them to fly in Indian skies,” he said.
