CBI seizes files on easing of 5/20 aviation rule; to probe senior officials

Tata group airlines AirAsia India and Vistara, which had operated for less than five years, were immediate beneficiaries of the change in rule

The National Democratic Alliance government’s decision to scrap the 5/20 rule, which made it easier for domestic airlines to fly abroad, is under the scanner of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The agency has seized files related to the National Civil Aviation Policy and is likely to call senior officials of the civil aviation ministry for questioning. The CBI is investigating allegations of bribery linked to easing policy norms for airlines to fly abroad.

“All files and records pertaining to the National Civil Aviation Policy have been forwarded to the CBI as per their request and presently the files are