JOIN USDespite SpiceJet’s latest discounted fares earning the DGCA’s wrath, three of its competitors – Air India, IndiGo and GoAir – signalled their intention to enter the fare war by slashing ticket prices for travel between July and September.
Air India’s short-term “Monsoon Bonanza” scheme provides discounted tickets on 40 domestic sectors until Saturday for travel until September 30.
Priced at a flat rate of Rs 1,499 (plus taxes), the tickets could be bought in 108 flights, including select domestic legs of international flights.
IndiGo has announced discounted tickets for several sectors with the condition that they be booked 90 days in advance.
The discounted fares start at Rs 1,389 for a one-way ticket, the airline said in a letter to travel agents, adding these fares were available only on direct flights on IndiGo’s network.The airline, however, did not specify the last date for purchase of the tickets.
“As anticipated, IndiGo has dropped their prices post SpiceJet’s sale announcement for the period of July to September,” said Sharat Dhall, president of travel portal Yatra.com.
“With India being a price elastic market for air passengers, these discounts are being used by airlines to create a market for themselves and to attract travellers. The advance discount fares continue to stimulate the market and offer lucrative opportunities for those willing to book their tickets early,” he added.
Yatra.com said a Delhi-Bangalore Indigo ticket cost Rs 3,170 after the drop in fares while it was Rs 4,736 before the sale offer.
GoAir started a 48-hour sale till Friday offering 30 to 40 per cent discount, for 90-day advance bookings valid for travel between July and September.