As we approach the festive season post-Navratri, many are planning their journeys home for Diwali, Chhath Puja, or Onam. If you are among those, it is imperative to book your flight tickets as soon as possible. The airfare is witnessing a significant surge, making early booking essential to avoid high costs.
Understanding the Surge in Airfare
During the festive season, particularly around Diwali and Chhath Puja in India, flight fares have already seen an increase of approximately 10-15%. This hike is largely in one-way ticket prices. Additionally, for Onam, flights to Kerala and other southern cities have experienced airfare rises of 20-25%. These calculations primarily reflect fares from Delhi, indicating widespread demand.
Detailed Fare Increases from Delhi
According to an analysis by the travel portal Ixigo, a report by PTI highlights that from October 30 to November 5, the average one-way airfare for direct flights from Delhi to Chennai in the economy category has surged by 25%, reaching ₹7,618. This is significantly higher compared to the prices recorded from November 10 to November 16 last year.
Fare Increases on Popular Routes
| Route | Current Fare (₹) | Increase Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi-Chennai | 7,618 | 25% |
| Mumbai-Hyderabad | 5,162 | 21% |
| Delhi-Goa | 5,999 | 19% |
| Delhi-Ahmedabad | 4,930 | 19% |
Other routes have also seen fare increases ranging from 1-16%. The overall rise in ticket prices points to an escalating demand for air travel during this festive time, placing travelers in a competitive situation for affordable flights.
Increasing Ticket Demand
Rajneesh Kumar, CEO of Ixigo, emphasized that the demand for travel during Diwali has significantly increased. Notably, the airfare this year is higher compared to the previous year, leading to sharper fare hikes during the festive season.
Interestingly, analysis from Ixigo has shown that certain routes, like Bengaluru-Hyderabad and Mumbai-Jammu, are offering lower fares compared to last year. However, for Chhath Puja, the airfare for routes such as Delhi-Patna and Mumbai-Patna is rapidly increasing, with potential hikes surpassing 30% in the upcoming days.
Tips for Booking Your Flights
- Book Early: The sooner you book, the more you can save as rates continue to climb.
- Be Flexible with Dates: If possible, opt for travel dates outside peak times for cheaper fares.
- Consider Alternative Airports: Flying into or out of nearby airports may offer more affordable options.
- Use Fare Alerts: Sign up for alerts to monitor price changes for your desired routes.
