October 17, 2017 TnH Global

IndiGo forays into regional markets; adds ATR to its fleet

In a boost to regional aviation in the country, IndiGo, India’s largest carriers in terms of passenger carried, today announced its first regional flight will begin from December 21, 2017 through a fleet of ATR aircraft.

“The airline will begin ATR operations with flights between cities on its existing network of Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Mangalore, Madurai and Nagpur and two new Tier-II cities of Tirupati and Rajahmundry. With an aim to enhance connectivity to these cities, the airline will deploy its ATR fleet of ATR 72-600 aircraft in a phased manner,” the airline said in a release announcing the launch of its regional flights.

The airline has also launched introductory fares starting Rs. 999 on these new routes, while bookings will open from midnight tonight. “First ATR flight will commence from Hyderabad, starting December 21, 2017,” the airline said.

“These flights will open up a whole new market, improving the choices of air travel to millions of our fellow citizens,” Aditya Ghosh, President and Whole Time Director, IndiGo was quoted in the release.

IndiGo has ordered 50 ATR aircraft to launch regional flights in the country. The airline is also likely to bid for government’s regional connectivity scheme, which offers subsidised regional flights at Rs. 2,500 per hour.

The airline also said that it is also introducing new ATR flights on its existing network which includes Chennai – Mangalore – Chennai, Hyderabad – Mangalore – Hyderabad and Hyderabad – Nagpur – Hyderabad.

News Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com