KARACHI: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has taken notice of the unreasonable increase in air fares by some private airlines which have apparently taken advantage of the ongoing dispute between the Pakistan International Airlines and Pakistan Airlines Pilots` Association, it is learnt.

According to sources, the CCP has decided to hold an investigation into the matter. The commission will investigate whether private airlines have abused their dominant position or indulged in anti-competitive activities by taking advantage of the crisis situation in the PIA.

Section 3 of the Competition Act prohibits unreasonable and unjustifiable increase in the prices of goods and services and empowers the commission to investigate exploitative practices.

The commission would conduct the inquiry and take action as if any violation of law was found during the probe,the sources said.