The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has expressed concerns regarding the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) notices issued by India’s Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) to some foreign airlines.
These notices, targeting expenses incurred by foreign airlines’ headquarters, are seen as potentially detrimental to India’s aviation growth. IATA argues that this approach does not align with international norms and practices, pointing out that Indian airlines do not face similar demands abroad.
Xie Xingquan, Regional Vice President for North Asia and Asia Pacific, IATA, criticised the DGGI’s stance, emphasising that the GST application fails to consider the unique nature of international air transport. He called for a globally consistent policy framework to support the international nature of air travel and mitigate risks to India’s aviation sector.
The association, representing over 330 airlines, urged the Indian government to address the issue promptly to avoid undermining the country’s aviation potential.