AI, Jet Airways too slash airfare

Air India and Jet Airways slashed ticket prices by 15 to 30 per cent on Wednesday to take on the price war started by SpiceJet and Indigo to tap potential travellers in the upcoming summer.

This is the fourth round of discount sale since the first in January third week. On Tuesday, SpiceJet started the “Super Holi Sale” followed by Indigo.

“Air India has launched a short term promotion sale bonanza from March 12 to 13. The travel period for the tickets under this scheme will be between April 11 to June 30. The sale is on select domestic flights and the domestic leg of international flights,” an Air India official said.

The sector watchers were not amused by the discount sale and they say they had anticipated the entry of Air India and Jet into the discount mela.

"As anticipated, we have seen Air India and Jet Airways follow suit on the flash sales that were started by Indigo and SpiceJet. The discounts continue to be in the range of 15-30 per cent, and this will benefit travellers who have not planned their summer holidays yet," Sharat Dhall, president of travel portal yatra.com, said.

He said they expect a significant increase in bookings in the coming few days due to the reduced fares.

Rajesh Magow, co-founder and CEO-India of MakeMyTrip.com, said, “After Spice Jet and Indigo announced their flash sales, Jet Airways has also announced discounted tickets with tickets being only marginally more expensive than the low cost carriers.”