The government says India has no blanket ban on airport operators owning airlines, but cross-holding restrictions in airport concession agreements may require waivers. The debate is significant because airport operators and airlines can have overlapping interests in areas such as airport facilities, passenger services and access to slots. The government's clarification establishes that there is no blanket policy ban on airport operators owning airlines. The government does not have a blanket rule preventing airport operators from entering the airline business, but concession agreements can impose additional conditions. The debate could become more important if major airport operators seek a larger role in India's airline market.