I REFER to the report ''Virgin seeks better deal from Cathay'' (Sunday Money, September 12).
The rapid growth of air transport has given rise to a situation whereby many airports experience a demand for slots which exceeds supply. This is especially true in Hong Kong. For such airports it is important to have a fair and equitable scheme for slotallocation.
It is normal practice for the major local airline to undertake slot allocation. In Hong Kong Cathay Pacific Airways has been the Slot Co-ordinator for more than 20 years. The allocation scheme is overseen by the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department.
The allocation of slots is undertaken twice a year under the auspices of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Slot Co-ordinators and airlines meet to draw up schedules for the coming winter or summer season.
The allocation of slots is undertaken strictly in accordance with guidelines set down by the IATA. If an airline was operating a service at a particular time last summer, then that airline would have priority to the same time slot for next summer. This is a principle known as ''grandfather rights''.
In Hong Kong slots are almost fully taken between 9 am and 11.30 pm, hence it is difficult to accommodate new services.
