Airfare Wars: Pune and Mumbai Compete in Diwali Pricing to Key Destinations
Pune, 30th October 2023: The conventional wisdom that larger airports with a multitude of flight options and better connectivity offer cheaper airline ticket prices is debunked this festive season, particularly for Pune and Mumbai. Fares from these two airports are comparable to several destinations.
On Diwali eve, the one-way per person fare from Pune to Kolkata ranges from Rs 17,000 to Rs 19,000, while the fare from Mumbai to Kolkata falls between Rs 15,000 and Rs 35,000. Despite Mumbai having 14 direct connections to Kolkata, Pune, with only three direct flights, stands on par in terms of ticket prices.
Kirti Singh, a frequent flyer, expressed her frustration with high fares from Pune to Patna, where there are just two flights, costing between Rs 7,000 to Rs 9,000. She usually opts for flights from Mumbai, where ticket prices are 15% to 20% lower than those from Pune. However, during the festive period, ticket prices from both cities are nearly identical, prompting her to explore train options.
Nilesh Bhansali, Director of the Travel Agents Association of Pune (TAAP) and owner of Devem Tours and Travels, highlighted the absence of regulations on airfare capping during the festive season. Bhansali noted that despite some cancellations, many travelers proceed with their plans despite high prices. Airlines, he stated, take advantage of the heightened demand, irrespective of whether the airport is in a metro or a smaller city.
Adding to the discussion, another representative from a travel company emphasized the increased priority placed on travel post-Covid. Despite the availability of multiple flight options, fares remain on the higher side as airlines capitalize on the changing behavior of travelers.
