Even Crying does not Prevent Passenger from Getting Offloaded

One generally hears of anger, abuse or violence when you hear about a passenger getting offloaded from a flight. In this case the offloaded passenger cried and pleaded with the aircraft pilot without success. This is how the story allegedly unfolds, a passenger who has checked in on Air India Express flight from Mumbai to Bahrain cannot be traced. 10 minutes before the scheduled departure the pilot is informed about the missing passenger, just then the passenger walks in and is allowed to board the flight. The pilot nonetheless decides to offload him. The passenger cries and pleads (begs with folded hands per the article) with the pilot, but to no avail as his luggage is traced and removed from the aircraft. My question, would it have been better to let him stay on (he finally did show up before the scheduled departure) or waste that time in locating the poor blokes’ luggage and delaying the entire flight and holding its passengers in shock as the drama unfolds on the tarmac?

Mumbai Airport Voted Best Airport in India

Mumbai airport has been voted as the best airport according to a CNN-IBN poll. Only 44 percent of the respondents thought that the overall experience in the airports in India as good, the majority (56%) termed it as “just okay”. Strangely, an option for “not good” or “bad” was not offered (one wonders about the methodology of the survey, but that's another discussion). Hyderabad’s old airport was voted as the worst, a good thing that the new state of the art airport is now operational.

Whether you are flying from the "best" or the "not-so-best" airport you still deserve the best deal possible. Check out those best deals on Tripmela's air fare section.

Kingfisher Airline Flight Hits a Dog on the Runway

Every Indian driving in any of the cities in India has most certainly had a near collision or crash with a stray dog. Well now an aircraft has had one too. Kingfisher airlines flight from Bangalore to Hyderabad hit a dog during takeoff. Thankfully there were only 2 minor injuries that too while evacuating. Only recently a flight hit a cow in India. So always buckle your seat belt.

Deccan to Die?

Per this article, Kingfisher airline has decided that Deccan as a brand will cease to exist once the merger is complete. Although no time line is given, this is contrary to what was earlier indicated by Capt. Gopinath before the merger that both airlines will exist in parallel. I am not so sure about the story. The only way for Kingfisher to compete in that case would be to follow Delta airline's strategy, of killing Song airline and transforming Delta (in the U.S), where they charge you $2 for a headset (very LCC like). Unless Kingfisher is ready to do that, i am not so sure they will kill the Deccan brand. One wild card, maintain Kingfisher's full service credentials in the international sector (and maybe trunk routes in India) but follow the LCC service route in domestic sectors... nonetheless, an interesting story to follow.

Mumbai - Delhi Air Corridor Among most Busiest in the World

The Mumbai - Delhi sector ranks as the 6th most busiest air corridors in the world. The most busiest being Barcelona - Madrid followed by Sao Paolo - Rio (Brazil). This is another reason why the Mumbai airport is in desperate need for upgrades and expansion. Hope this stat spurs some serious and immediate action.

If you are looking for air fares for Mumbai to New Delhi check out Tripmela's section on air fare deals.

Bangalore Airport vs. Hyderabad Airport

An article that has good stats comparing the expected passenger volumes and revenues for the new Hyderabad and Bangalore International Airports. The new Hyderabad airport expects traffic of about 7 million passengers compared to 11 million for the new Bangalore airport.

KLM Pilot Flies Right by New Hyderabad Airport

(Via Online Travel Review)

The pilot on a KLM flight from Amsterdam to Hyderabad, spent several hours trying to find a place to land because he was never told that a new airport had opened that day in Hyderabad. Upon approach to Hyderabad's old airport, he was told that the facility was closed and flew to Delhi to land the aircraft. Delhi's air traffic control would not let him land, so he continued on to Mumbai.

KLM had never been told that the old facility had been shuttered and, to the pilot's credit, he was a bit leery about landing at the new airport, as he was never told that there was a new airport.

For great deals on flights to Hyderabad, check out Tripmela's great airfares to and from Hyderabad.

Indigo Airlines "Best Low Fare Carrier in India" 2007

Indigo Airlines won the "Best low fare carrier in India" for the year 2007 by the Air Passengers Association of India (APAI). The results are based off a survey of 2000 respondents made up by frequent flyers and a randomly selected group of online respondents.

If you would like to fly on Indigo or any other airlines feel free to check out some of the deals on air fares on Tripmela.

Continued Losses for Jet Airways

It seems to be a heavy post day, so I will keep it short. More bad news for Jet Airways as they are expected to continue making losses going into the year (or a couple of years per the article). High fuel prices and salaries being the main culprits. Read on....

Emirates to Launch a Low Cost Carrier

The award winning Emirate Airlines plans to launch a new low cost airline that will service destinations up to 4.5 hours from its base in Dubai, including flights to India. This will provide more options (and lower prices ) to Indians looking to fly to the Middle East. The India to Middle East sector is flush with LCC options, few of the notable ones being Air Arabia, Jazeera Airlines, Gulf Air (okay, based on consumer perception :)) and our very own Air India Express, Spice Jet and Deccan (looking to start operations to this sector). Here is where things will get more interesting, Emirates has 58 A380's on order and a chunk of them can be configured to squeeze in 1000 passengers. They will most likely deploy a good chunk of these in their LCC operation. one should expect prices to fall, good for consumers, but as for the airlines...."Slash, Burn & Survive".

Another Makeover for Deccan

From Air Deccan to Deccan to King/Kingfisher Deccan? As per this report, Kingfisher Airlines plans to yet again re-brand Deccan in its quest to reposition the airline to a "value based" airline from the low cost carrier image that made it all the rage three years ago. Another reason could be that since Kingfisher Airlines is not allowed to fly overseas as it has yet to complete 5 years of operations it could piggy back on the name Kingfisher Deccan overseas flights. They plan to launch the new re-branding campaign during the much anticipated IPL dhamaka...so stay tuned...

If you are planning to fly in the near future check out Tripmela for the the latest airfare deals .

"State of the Airports"

In the midst of the massive airport upgrades going on throughout the nation, CNN-IBN will be airing a special on the "State of the Indian Airports" based on a survey of regular passengers. Well, given the on-going construction in Mumbai and Delhi airports, we know what passengers might have to say about that. It will be interesting to see what people think about the non-metro airports.

Alitalia to stop flights to India

Facing mounting losses, and as part of its restructuring exercise, Alitalia, the beleaguered Italian national carrier has decided to stop operations to India and China from next summer. Alitalia, has been in negotiations, forever, with the Air France-KLM group, which it expects to join. They will focus on the North and South American markets. If you have ever visited Italy in the summer, you would know why. It is swarming with 'Americaanos' (Italian way of saying Americans). This restructuring will result in fewer options for flying direct to Milan.

The India sector is one of the most profitable sectors for European airlines such as British Airways and Lufthansa. Other Carriers are looking to add services and/or increase their presence to India.

For some great airfares overseas destinations check out Tripmela's deals on airfares. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

An Interview with Tripmela's CEO

India Business 2.0 conducted an interview with Tripmela's CEO to hear more about India's only travel deals website. Click here to read the whole discussion about online travel in India, and how a publisher of travel deals fits in with the growing number of online agencies and metasearch companies.

Palace on Wheels from Mumbai to Delhi

Most have heard about the luxurious palace on wheels train service from Delhi through Rajasthan. The Indian Railways is now planning to expand that service and will most certainly have a Mumbai to Delhi sector as well. The luxury train will have 22 or 23 coaches that will include a bar, lounge, restaurants and special suites.

Per the IRCTC this will be catered to foreign nationals (read, expensive), but promises to be a very pleasant, relaxing and comfortable ride. My one suggestion, they should include a spa in that train, but even without that it promises to be a great experience.

Infrastructure Bottlenecks Constraint Airline Expansion Plans

Airlines planning to increase the number of flights from the large metro airports, which account for most air traffic in India, will have to postpone their plans. The civil aviation ministry, thanks to infrastructure bottlenecks, has decided not to allow any additional flights out of Mumbai this summer. This will hit the expansion plans of all airlines, including that of Jet Airways, Kingfisher, Deccan and the national carriers. Kingfisher airlines, for e.g had plans to introduce 11 additional flights from Mumbai, including a flight to New Delhi.

This is a serious issue affecting the airline Industry, but could this be a blessing in disguise? Infrastructure constraints holding back the over aggressive expansion plans by most airlines, thus checking over supply, which in turn keeps a check on falling prices, hence holds the yields at a reasonable level...A necessity for the longevity of the airline industry....time will tell.

India's Government to Airlines: Start Hiring Desi Pilots

India's government has had enough of foreign pilots in Indian cockpits. Nearly 1,000 foreign pilots, including almost 150 co-pilots, fly for Indian airlines, despite a growing number of Desi pilots. Indian airlines have been known to hire Indian pilots but not pay for their training, as it is more cost effective to hire foreign pilots and train them.

The government is trying to end this practice by requiring airlines to create a hiring and training plan for Desi pilots or risk having their foreign co-pilots sent home in June. 134 foreign co-pilots could face losing their jobs as Indian co-pilots are hired to fill the positions.

Air Deccan to Fly Overseas

Air Deccan, according to the article, is all set to fly to international destinations as it has got an in-principle nod from the Indian government. As per the rules laid out by the Indian government, private airlines need to be operating for at least 5 years before they can apply to fly to International destinations. This is another strategic reason for Deccan's acquisition by Kingfisher Airlines. The likely routes for Deccan are going to be the Middle East and East Asia (Singapore, Bangkok etc.). The consumers can expect another bout of price drops as Deccan turns up the heat on Jet Airways, Air India, and other airlines.

For some great airfares to Indian and overseas destinations check out Tripmela's deals on airfares. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

India's Airlines Lose Rs 800 Per Passenger

Have you been wondering how India's airlines can make any money while you're barely paying Rs 4,000 for a return ticket? Well, it turns out they can't. According to this article, they're losing about Rs 800 for each passenger they fly. No industry can survive on those kinds of losses.

The airlines losing money is good news for passengers (in the short term), so if you're looking for great airfares in India, check out Tripmela's deals on airfares in India. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Largest Offshore Casino to Open in Goa

A large 70 meter vessel is being refurbished at a cost of $25 million to be converted into an offshore casino. The casino, named "Maharaja Casino", will open next month. It's being touted as the largest such casino in South Asia with 22,000 sq. ft. of pure gambling and entertainment. Another USP of this casino, "No Limits" tables, so depending on your luck either the sky or the depth of ocean is the limit.

If you are feeling lucky check out Tripmela's deals on airfares for Goa. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Airfare to London to Cost More

The BAA (British Airport Authority) that operates Heathrow & Gatwick airports have announced a hike in their landing charges. The landing charges are expected to increase next year to approximately 13 pounds at Heathrow and 7 pounds at Gatwick. Airlines have not clearly indicated if they are going to pass that hike on to passengers or absorb some of those costs. But looking at the sundry surcharges airlines charge these days, one expects most of those charges to be passed on to consumers.

If you are going to pay more, might as well look for the best available deal, check out tripmela's air deals here. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Airport Strike Turning Out to be a Damp Squib, in a Good Way

The non-cooperation movement by the AAI union workers in 88 airports across the country seem to be having little impact so far. As it turns out the IAF personnel deployed in the larger metro airports are doing a stellar job so far. The delays in the non-metro airports are reportedly few as well.

So you can still fly out of the airports and keep your sanity. If you are looking to fly check out Tripmela's air deals here.

Airport Workers Plan to go on Strike Across India

The Airport Authority of India (AAI) union workers plan to go on a strike in protest against the closure of the existing Bangalore and Hyderabad airports. The older airports are schedule to be closed when the new airports open in the respective cities. Expect major delays across 88 AAI run airports across the country. Mumbai and Delhi airports, although run by private companies, will feel the ripple affects of flights coming (or not) from the other AAI run airports. There will be some Indian Air Force personnel stationed in the larger airports as a contingency plan.

Bangalore's New Airport to Open 30 March; New Services Expected

Bangalore's new airport is expected to open on 30 March, and it should be good news for travellers long term. Airport officials say they have been handling inquiries from domestic and international carriers about launching flights from new cities, and increasing flights between existing cities. All of this talk should lead to better schedules and lower fares in the long-term. The new airport offers double the capacity of the existing facility.

Says the prime minister:

"Hong Kong-based Dragon Air and Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, have already sought clearance to operate daily service from the new airport. Existing international airlines, such as Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Gulf Air and Emirates plan to increase the number of flights a week to provide better connectivity and more capacity."

"Similarly, domestic carriers such as Jet Airways and Kingfisher will launch international flights to Europe and the US in the coming months. We expect other airlines, including Air India and Malaysian Airlines to increase services to existing and newer destinations."

If you're looking for great airfares to and from Bangalore, check out Tripmela's deals on airfares for Bangalore.. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Low Fare Carriers in India Hope to Generate More Ancillary Revenues

Low fare carriers have done a good job of moving away from the super-low tickets that were driving down average fares and hurting profitability. Another way they're helping to drive profits is by driving non-ticket revenue - what some call "ancillary revenues." The Business Standard reports on these efforts by low fare carriers in India, including SpiceJet and GoAir trying to sell trip insurance and Deccan selling medical insurance. Around 5% of airline revenue globally is generated from ancillary revenues, though lowfare carriers typically generate more by charging for onboard meals, checking extra bags, and assigned seating. Ryanair expects to see 20% of their revenues coming from these sources within 3 years. Look for new schemes from low cost airlines to drive up their revenues by selling passengers more stuff in the coming years.

If you're looking for great airfares on India's low fare carriers, check out Tripmela's deals on airfares. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Kingfisher "5 Star" Airline

Kingfisher Airlines has been conferred 5 star status by Skytrax, the world's leading, independent travel forum and air travel information organization. This is the same airline that plans to have a stand in bar in the economy section for their international (US) flights. What will they think of next, a putting green?

To find out about great air deals on this or other 1 to 4 star airlines you can view Tripmela's flight specials. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

International Film Festival Opens in Mumbai

Amidst the glut of Bollywood awards, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) will host its 10th International film festival, organized by MAMI (Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image). The week-long festival will screen 140 films from 45 countries.

If you want to watch some of these exciting foreign films, or just catch a glimpse of the glitterati in the buzzing city of Mumbai you can check out Tripmela's deals on airfare and hotels in Mumbai. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Air India Express to Launch New Routes to the Middle East

Air India Express plans to launch new routes to the Middle East by the end of the month. The proposed routes will connect New Delhi with Doha, Kerala with Dammam (in Saudi Arabia) and Mangalore with Kuwait. One will also be able to fly to Dubai from Pune and Ahmedabad.

Of course, these routes are still in the planning stages, and might change. But this is definitely promising as it will offer more direct flights on these busy traffic routes.

To find out about great air deals you can view Tripmela's flight specials. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Delhi's Airport Named Among Worst in the World

The Sydney Morning Herald takes a look at the worst airports in the world and, not surprisingly, places Indira Gandhi Airport in Delhi smack in the middle of the list. Notes the article, "if you do manage to navigate your way out of there and still be in possession of your bags, you're met by the world's largest and possibly most aggressive scrum of touts." And that's being kind.

If you have to endure Delhi's airport, make sure you're getting a good deal. Check out Tripmela's deals on airfare and hotels in Delhi. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Advice for Travels in Goa

The Times of London has some smart advice for those traveling to Goa: “People let their guard down on holiday and women in particular should take the same precautions when they’re on holiday anywhere in the world as back in the UK. So avoid walking around on your own and avoid dark streets late at night.”

Of course, Goa is a perfectly safe destination if you travel smartly. For great deals on flights to Goa, check out Tripmela's great deals on airfare, hotels and more. Tripmela is India's only source for great travel deals. Sign up for their weekly 10 Best Travel Deals email newsletter.

Delhi Airport, chaotic?

If passengers are fainting in claustrophobic conditions or missing flights as they have to wait an hour just to get into the check-in lounge, one would think YES.

The airport is in the middle of massive re-construction which has basically shrunk the usable space considerably. Hence the long lines and chaos.

If you want to avoid the mayhem, you could fly in and out of Jaipur or Agra and drive (or take the train) to Delhi. Yes, its longer, but a lot more serene. To see if there are good deals to Jaipur or Agra you can view Tripmela's flight specials. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

More planes to fly in the Indian skies?

There is an unconfirmed report about Jet Airways, Deccan, and Indian looking to raise up to $4 Billion through the equity and debt route. The funds will be used to buy more planes, and add routes. Will this lead to lower prices in some of the smaller routes dominated by the incumbent players?

In the mean time if you are looking for great flight deals in India you can view Tripmela's flight specials. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.

Air Canada expands service to India

Air Canada announces services to Mumbai and Chennai in coopoeration with the Largest Indian Private Airline Jet Airways. This will be a codeshare deal between the two, with connections through Brussles, Jet Airways' European hub, to Chennai. The Mumbai flight will go via London.

If you're looking for great deals to India, you can view Tripmela's Flights to India here. Tripmela is India's only source for great airfare and hotel deals in India. Sign up for their free 10 Best Travel Deals weekly newsletter.