Click to play videoBangalore/Hyderabad: South India is emerging as the new hub of activity for airlines as the part of the country has seen a surge of 10 per cent in passenger load.
Two new airports in the south have come up and that translates into more business.
International airlines have begun flying more trips to Bangalore and Hyderabad. Despite dense traffic in the international skies and the ATF price fluctuating over the last two months, the two destinations are a safe bet for airlines.
Dragon Air, Tiger Airways, Oman Air, Air Mauritius and Kingfisher Airlines have all begun operating new routes from the Bangalore International Airport.
Indian, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Malaysian Airlines and Thai Airways have increased the frequency of their flights out of Bangalore.
In all, 144 new flights have been added this winter, which is a 220 per cent rise over last year's count at this time of the year.
Sales Manager, Emirates, Sudhir Sukumaran said, "As far as the Bangalore airport is concerned we have got great feedback. The passengers are happy and we are also happy with the services. BIAL gave good assistance to make the shift and we are glad that the new airport allows us these new flights.
Hyderabad Airport paints a similar picture. There is a clear scramble southwards, as Gulf Air and Air India Express have launched new routes. Al Arabia, Emirates and Singapore Air too are looking at a hike in frequencies in the next three months.
Director-Commercial Operations, GHIAL, A Vishwanath said, "Because of our larger run way and better facilities we are able to offer more frequencies to airlines."
Increasing competition has lead to a slugfest between International airlines.
Some airlines have slashed fares by nearly 30 per cent for flights going from Bangalore to London, Singapore and Dubai.
Jet Airways and Kingfisher are offering formidable competition.
Experts say prices might drop even further for the emerging aviation hub, this holiday season.
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