The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) under the Transport Ministry held a conference in Hanoi on March 19 to explore the current performance of aviation firms and develop relevant measures and policies to mitigate difficulties.

Addressing the event, CAAV Deputy Director Vo Huy Cuong said the Transport Ministry will focus on strengthening reform to the satisfaction of businesses and people in 2015.

The ministry is eager to hear from enterprises in the design of policies to create favourable conditions for aviation firms to boost sustainable growth.

Participants held that one of the factors influencing aviation enterprises’ cost is a rise in environmental tax on fuels. Vietnam Airlines’ cost is estimated to increase by 750 billion VND (35.25 million USD), while that of Vietjet Air will increase by 400 billion VND (18.8 million USD) and Jestar Pacific by 150 billion VND (7.05 million USD).

A Vietnam Airlines representative proposed the cost be covered through marginal increases in ticket fares to ease the impact on the firms. Meanwhile, a Vietnam Air Services Company representative suggested environmental taxes exemptions for Jet A1 and A0 gas.

An issue raised by airlines providing flights to and from Phu Quoc was the need to clarify visa exemptions for tourists in Phu Quoc and procedures for visiting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietjet Air Deputy General Director Nguyen Duc Tam said his company hopes to engage in recruitment for ground services.

At the same time, representatives from the low-cost carrier Jestar Pacific pointed to difficulties in implementing Circular 36 on improving customer service at airports and sought support from the VAAV in increasing booths and expanding airport lounges for customers, especially for the handicapped, elderly and expectant mothers.-VNA