Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapati Raju has asked the states to reduce the taxes levied by them on air turbine fuel, ATF to bring down the operational cost of airlines. Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a function in New Delhi, Mr Raju said that ATF is high taxed commodity and is a major factor in determining the air fare. He also said some states have already reduced it and if others follow, it will make domestic travel affordable. On the issue of financial crisis in Spicejet airlines, the Minister said it is their problem and it is for them to sort it out. He, however, said, the government is willing to help the airlines. Earlier Airport Authority of India had given two week extension to the airliner to keep its house in order. The extension period is expiring tomorrow.The Minister also said that the government is seeking suggestions and ideas from the states to finalise draft aviation policy. AIR correspondent reports, the government is ready with a new aviation policy to develop aviation infrastructure and to attract investments. The main aim of the policy is to maintain a competitive civil aviation environment which ensures safety and security in accordance with international standards, promotes efficient, cost-effective and orderly growth of air transport and contributes to social and economic development of the country.