It?s not only domestic carriers that are vying for healthy load factors on their flights, international carriers too are eyeing India to optimise revenues in times of financial crisis across the globe.
To beat slowdown, carriers like SriLankan Airlines, Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific and Gulf-based Emirates have devised attractive fare structure this season. Industry observers say that international carriers have opted for aggressive pricing currently because October-December, which is considered the busiest season for corporate and leisure travel, did not materialise last year due to record high fuel prices and slowdown in travel as a fallout of the global financial meltdown.
Carriers like SriLankan Airlines have launched a special package for cricket lovers for the ongoing 5-match ODI series in Sri Lanka. The airline has already secured 100 bookings from the southern region which has fares starting from Rs 9,999 which includes three day/two nights stay at a luxury hotel. Even Cathay has lowered its fuel surcharge on various sectors. Says Rakesh Raicar-sales and marketing manager, India, Nepal and Bangladesh , Cathay Pacific, ?We have lowered fuel surcharge by 70% on our network effective February onwards which was $118 in October 2008. We want to promote affordable travel for our passengers as we have expansion plans in India.? This move is to boost its revenues (currently India contributes nearly 3% to its revenues) from India operations.
Gulf-based Emirates too has fined-tuned its strategies to lure passengers for the upcoming Dubai festival in March. To beat its peers, it is offering super value packages which start at Rs 66,189 onwards for travel from Mumbai to Dubai which includes three days accommodation complimentary.
Also, international carriers observed a significant decline in cargo demand. Revenues reportedly plunged around 5% below target for most of the carriers operating in and out of India. ?In the case of Cathay, it has plans to expand its network rapidly this year to destinations like India whose currency have depreciated against the Hong Kong dollar over the past few months,? said an analyst.