In partial modification of Ministry of Finance’s O.M.No.7(2)E.Coord/2005 dt.23.11.2005 circulated vide Board’s letter No.2005-B-260 dt.14.12.2005 and in supersession of Ministry of Finance (Deptt. of Expenditure)’s O.M.No.19024/1/E.IV/2005 dt.24.3.2006, circulated vide Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2006/AL-28/4 dt.19.7.2006, a copy of Ministry of Finance’s O.M.No.19024/1/2009-E.IV dt.13.7.2009 regarding Air Travel on official account, both domestic and international, is circulated for information and strict adherence.
While allowing Air travel to officers, Ministry of Finance’s instructions (on austerity measures) issued from time to time regarding ensuring of utmost economy by buying of cheapest fare in economy/business class travel etc. and availing of incentive schemes and concessional fares provided by the airlines (now Air India) are to be strictly observed.
Copy of Ministry of Finance’s O.M.No. 19024/1/2009-E.IV dt.13.7.2009
Sub: Air Travel on official account – both domestic and International.
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1. In partial modification of this Ministry’s OM No.F.No.7(2)E.Coord/2005 dated 23rd November,2005 and in supersession of this Ministry’s OM No.19024/1/E.IV/2005 dated 24.3.2006, it has been decided that in all cases of air travel, both domestic and international, where the Government of India bears the cost of air passage, the officials concerned may travel only by Air India.
2. For travel to stations not connected by Air India, the officials may travel by Air India to the hub/point closest to their eventual destination, beyond which they may utilize the services of another airline which should also preferably be an alliance partner of Air India.
3. In all cases of deviation from these orders because of operational or other reasons or on account of non-availability, individual cases may be referred to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for relaxation.
4. All Ministries/Departments of the Government of India are requested to strictly adhere to these instructions.
5. These orders will also apply to officials in autonomous bodies funded by Government of India.