Need two more months for GST, Civil Aviation Ministry tells government

The civil aviation ministry has asked for the implementation of goods and services tax (GST) to be postponed by two months, saying that airlines need more time to revamp their systems so that they can be compatible with GST.

GST is scheduled to be implemented from July 1, for which preparations are at an advanced stage.

Airline carriers in India, including the state-run Air India, have expressed their concerns over several aspects of GST.

As per airline officials, making changes in the global ticket distribution system that matches with GST needs time.

Also, there is a lack of clarity over certain areas related to the business of these airlines, which is a cause of concern. These concerns include the possibility of movement of "stocks (equipment or aircraft parts)" being taxed under GST.