Welcome to the skies of India, where the vast expanse above is not only a canvas of endless possibilities but also subject to regulations and charges. When it comes to navigating the Indian airspace, understanding the air navigation charge, especially for overflights, is crucial. Let's delve into what air navigation charge entails and how it is calculated in India based on specific parameters.
What is Air Navigation Charge?
Navigating the Airspace
Air Navigation Charge, often referred to as enroute charge, is a fee levied by a country for the use of its airspace by aircraft. This fee contributes to the maintenance and management of the airspace, ensuring safe and efficient air travel. The charges can vary from one country to another, and they are typically based on factors such as aircraft type, maximum take-off weight (MTOW), distance flown, and the specific charging method employed by the country.
India's Air Navigation Charge
The Calculation Method
In India, the air navigation charge for overflights is calculated using a formula that takes into account the aircraft's maximum take-off weight (W) and the distance flown (D). The calculation falls under the third category of VarnaJet's method of Air Navigation Charge calculation.
The formula is as follows:
Charge = W x D x R + FC
Where:
W: Calculated as the square root of (all-up weight in kg / 50,000), capped at a certain weight in kg.
D: Calculated as the square root of (great distance in nautical miles / 100), capped at 1,200 NM (nautical miles).
R: Unit rate of 4,620 INR (Indian Rupees).
FC: Fixed charge of 4,400 INR.
This formula encapsulates the essence of how India determines the air navigation charge for overflights. It's important to note that this charge can vary based on the aircraft type, the route taken, and the duration of the flight. As you plan your flight over the Indian skies, being aware of and preparing for these charges as part of the trip cost estimation process is essential.
Starting from 1st April 2022, all aircraft (ACFT) operators are advised that the Route Navigation Facility Charges (RNFC) for aircraft overflying Indian Flight Information Regions (FIRs) - Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai - will be invoiced and collected by the Airports Authority of India. This marks a change from the previous arrangement where invoicing and collection were managed through the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which has been discontinued from 31st March 2022. This change streamlines the process of invoicing and collection, ensuring smoother financial transactions for air navigation charges within India.
Setting a New Standard
A Different Approach
At VarnaJet, our commitment to transparency and integrity extends to every aspect of our services, including the handling of Air Navigation Fees and CAA Processing Fees. In every country, the CAA or designated organizations like IATA, EUROCONTROL, ASECNA, or COCESNA are responsible for sending air navigation charges. The accountable entity for receiving and processing these charges varies depending on the country or the event, it could be the Airline or the flight operator directly or the authorized applicant. Unlike some service providers who may charge these fees without providing supporting documentation and proof of payment to the respective Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA), we take a different approach. We understand the potential pitfalls of such practices, which can lead to future complications, blacklisting the Airline, and even permit rejections. Therefore, we never charge Air Navigation Fees or CAA Prosessing Fees without ensuring that they are backed by concrete documentation and verified proof of payment. This not only safeguards our clients from future permit issues but also exemplifies our dedication to conducting business with the highest standards of professionalism and trustworthiness. For the case of India; flight operators should be aware that these charges are sent directly to the flight operators or the Airliners in most of the cases.
With VarnaJet, you can be confident that your Air Navigation Fees and CAA Processing Fees are handled securely and in full compliance with regulatory requirements, ensuring the smooth operation of your flights without unwelcome surprises down the line.
Flight Operations (24/7): ops@varnajet.com
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