The ongoing crisis at Tata Group’s Vistara Airlines, marked by the cancellation of over 100 flights this week, is causing significant disruptions for travelers and may lead to a surge in air travel costs. Travel agents and platforms warn that if the issue persists, airfares could become more expensive, especially with the upcoming summer holiday season.
Ajay Prakash, Board Member of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH), emphasized the potential impact on fares due to capacity cuts, which could exacerbate the already high prices. He expressed concern about the looming summer holidays and urged for urgent resolution.
Vistara passengers are increasingly frustrated with flight delays, prompting many to refrain from booking with the airline, according to a travel agent. Cleartrip, an online travel platform, has received numerous cancellation requests for Vistara flights.
The existing supply-demand gap has already led to a 15 percent rise in domestic airfares, and further disruptions from Vistara could exacerbate the situation, noted Sanjay Dang, Managing Director of Le Travelworld. Chirag Agrawal, Co-Founder of TravClan, highlighted the uncertainty surrounding Vistara, leading travelers to opt for alternative airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa.
Passengers shared their experiences of last-minute cancellations and delays, resulting in expensive alternative flight options. Rajiv Mehra, President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), advised travelers to monitor Vistara’s website for route schedules and cancellations.
In response to the crisis, travelers are increasingly seeking alternative options to avoid potential disruptions. Agrawal emphasized the need for long-term workforce development and collaboration among stakeholders in the aviation and travel industry to address challenges and sustain economic growth.
The aviation industry is grappling with various challenges, including engine failures and grounded fleets, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to overcome obstacles and ensure seamless travel experiences for passengers.
