The Airports Authority of India Act, 1994

The Airports Authority of India Act, 1994, is a significant piece of legislation that provides for the constitution of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the transfer of undertakings from the International Airports Authority of India and the National Airports Authority to the AAI. This Act aims to improve the management of airports, civil enclaves, and aeronautical communication stations, ensuring better air transport services and safety. It also outlines the functions, powers, and financial aspects of the AAI, making it a central authority in the Indian aviation sector.

1: Act Background and Ministry

The Airports Authority of India Act, 1994, was enacted to consolidate and streamline the management of airports in India. The Act aims to create a unified body responsible for the development, maintenance, and operation of airports and related facilities. The Ministry of Civil Aviation oversees this Act, reflecting its responsibility in regulating and promoting civil aviation infrastructure. The Ministry plays a crucial role in formulating policies, implementing the act, and ensuring the AAI’s efficient functioning.

2: Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, and Sections:

The Act was enacted on September 12, 1994, and is officially known as Act No. 55 of 1994.

• The Act is structured into six chapters that cover various aspects of the Airports Authority of India.

• It includes a total of 46 sections, along with sub-sections, that outline the establishment, powers, and functions of the Authority, along with provisions for finance, accounts, and audit.

• The Act also addresses the eviction of unauthorized occupants and other miscellaneous matters.

3: Act Governed By:

The Act is primarily governed by:

• The Airports Authority of India (AAI): Established under Section 3, this is the main body responsible for managing airports and civil enclaves.

• The Central Government: The Central Government has significant powers under the Act, including the power to appoint members of the Authority, issue directions, and approve regulations.

• The Chairperson: The Chairperson is the head of the Authority and plays a key role in its administration.

• The Governing Body: The Authority is managed by a Board of Governors, which includes the Chairperson, ex-officio members, and other appointed members.

4: On Whom It Is Applicable:

The Act applies to:

• The Airports Authority of India.

• All airports, civil enclaves, and aeronautical communication stations in India (except those under the armed forces).

• All officers and employees of the AAI.

• All persons and entities involved in the operation, management, and use of airports and related facilities.

• Private airports and their operators.

5: Penalties/Punishments:

The Act includes provisions for penalties and punishments to ensure compliance:

• The Act empowers the AAI to take action against unauthorized occupants of airport premises, including eviction and recovery of damages.

• It also includes provisions for penalties for offenses under Chapter VA, which relates to the eviction of unauthorized occupants.

• The Act also includes provisions for penalties for non-compliance with the rules and regulations established by the AAI.

• While the act does not specify specific monetary penalties for all contraventions, it provides for the imposition of fines and imprisonment for certain offenses.

6: Important Pointers:

• The Act establishes the Airports Authority of India as a body corporate with perpetual succession.

• It defines key terms such as “airport,” “civil enclave,” and “aeronautical communication station.”

• The Act outlines the functions of the AAI, including the management of airports, provision of air traffic services, and development of infrastructure.

• It empowers the AAI to charge fees, rent, and other charges for services and facilities at airports.

• The Act provides for the establishment of a fund for the AAI and its investment.

• It includes provisions for the allocation of surplus funds and the submission of financial estimates.

• The Act outlines the powers of the AAI to borrow money and the Central Government to guarantee loans.

• It establishes a framework for the eviction of unauthorized occupants from airport premises.

• The Act provides for the protection of actions taken in good faith by the AAI and its officers.

• It empowers the Central Government to issue directions to the AAI and to temporarily divest it of management of any airport.

• The Act provides for the making of rules and regulations to carry out its provisions.

• The Act provides for the application of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 for acquiring land for AAI.

7: Download Act Copy