Low-cost carriers have triggered yet another fare war.
This time around, it is sparked by SpiceJet, which has come out with a limited offer. GoAir and IndiGo have followed it quickly by coming out with deep discounted fares for the same period.
SpiceJet, on Monday, announced a ‘Super Summer Sale’ for customers, who can book within the next three days for travel between April 1 and June 30.
Under this offer, tickets are priced up to 75 per cent discount on base fare plus fuel surcharge as compared to last-minute bookings (that is, bookings that are made within seven days of travel).
For example, a Delhi-Goa ticket that otherwise sells for Rs.11,148 all-in for last-minute purchase, can be bought for as little as Rs.3,737 all-in under this offer. A Chennai-Delhi fare would cost Rs.3,675 as compared to Rs.11,085, a Chennai-Pune fare would cost Rs.2,028 as compared to Rs.7,261 and a Chennai-Port Blair ticket would cost Rs.3,286 as against Rs.9,570 in last minute booking.
Seats made available for this offer are limited, and the availability depends on specific date and flight in the domestic sector. Earlier, the airline had announced two discounted fare offers, which other airlines had to match.
“SpiceJet is committed to creating multiple affordable opportunities for as many Indians as possible to fly as often as possible at all times of the year,” said Sanjiv Kapoor, Chief Operating Officer, SpiceJet.
“It is a pleasant surprise for customers planning their summer holidays. We have seen a 40 per cent spike in bookings on our website since the offer was announced,’’ said Neelu Singh, COO, Ezeego1.com, “These flash sales are becoming a regular feature in the first few months of the year. Besides stimulating demand, these are prompting Indians to plan their travel in advance,” said Vikram Malhi, GM, South and Southeast Asia, Expedia.
IndiGo’s all-time low fares start at Rs.1,876 in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad sector, while IndiGo fare in the Delhi-Mumbai sector has been priced at Rs.3,410.
GoAir has announced a summer vacation travel offer starting with lowest fare of Rs.1,726. These fares are for limited seats only, the airlines said.
