Lonely runways await international carriers in Nay Pyi Taw

Lonely runways await international carriers in Nay Pyi Taw

Published on Monday, 08 April 2013 21:30

Nay Pyi Taw International Airport (Photo - EMG)

Discounted fees and charges at Nay Pyi Taw International Airport have so far proven insufficient as not a single international airline has begun flying to the capital to take advantage of the price cuts that began this month, officials said.

"International airlines are not negotiating with us to land at the new airport yet," said Win Swe Tun, deputy director general of the Department of Civil Aviation. He said that beside the discounts on fees and charges, carriers could pick their time for scheduling a flight, unlike at Yangon International Airport where they "have to land at the time they are told to". Nay Pyi Taw's airport also had "brand new accessories and equipment", he said.

From April 1 international carriers have been offered a discount on a range of fees and services if they use the airport. The 50 percent price cuts extend to landing fees and equipment-use. Discounted hotel rooms and reduced departure fees have also been offered to entice more traffic to the airport.

So far, these have all failed.

Myanmar Airways is the only carrier with regular flights to the capital. Other domestic airlines operate charter flights. The airport became ready to provide services for international airlines this month. Myanmar Petroleum Energy will provide jet fuel at the airport from next month.

The first phase of the airport opened in December 2011. It was built with a loan from the Export Import Bank of China. Pioneer Aerodrome Services oversees ground services.

Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2013/04/09/lonely-runways-await-international-carriers-in-nay-pyi-taw/