India's ATF Supply Secured for 60 Days Amidst West Asia Unrest
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) India possesses sufficient aviation turbine fuel (ATF) to sustain operations for the next 60 days, with no imminent threat of disruption, stated Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu during a session in the Rajya Sabha on Monday amidst rising concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
In reply to inquiries in the Rajya Sabha, Naidu reassured that the nation’s aviation fuel supply remains unaffected despite the oil crisis stemming from the conflict in West Asia.
“India has ample ATF reserves and does not anticipate any shortages in the foreseeable future,” he remarked.
“The country adheres to a balanced production system for ATF, wherein approximately half of the fuel produced caters to domestic needs, while the remainder is exported,” the minister elaborated.
He further emphasized that India has adequate stock to satisfy demand for at least the next 60 days without interruptions.
On the topic of aviation safety, Naidu indicated that the government has intensified monitoring and inspection protocols for airlines.
He pointed out that the frequency of audits has been increased, and checks are being conducted more often to ensure that passenger safety remains the highest priority.
In addressing issues related to emergency landings, the minister explained that decisions in such scenarios are always made with safety considerations at the forefront.
Factors such as aircraft type, weather conditions, and regulatory guidelines are evaluated before prioritizing any landing.
In a written response, Naidu also discussed the safety inspections carried out following the Air India crash.
He stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) instructed airlines in July 2025 to inspect the locking mechanism of the fuel control switch in Boeing aircraft, according to guidelines provided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
“All airline operators have completed the necessary inspections, and all aircraft were deemed fit and safe for operations,” he concluded.