Dimapur, Feb 15 (MExN): Air Deccan, India’s second largest airline announced the launch of daily, non stop flights connecting Kolkata to Dimapur (via Imphal). Bookings for the new flight will be opened on February 16, 2007 at 08:00 am. However, operations will commence from March 26, 2007 and A 48 seater ATR-42 aircraft will be deployed to serve this route.
Air Deccan’s daily flight between Imphal and Dimapur will provide the first ever air-connectivity between Imphal and Dimapur. The new flights will give much needed affordable air connectivity to business and leisure travelers alike. A release issued by Vijaya Menon, Head– Corporate Communications stated that the earlier one books, the lesser one pays and fares on this sector will begin at Re 1/- (plus taxes). Capt. G.R Gopinath Managing Director, Air Deccan said, “Air Deccan’s new flights will not only provide a convenient and affordable travel option to scores of people traveling between these cities but will also spur economic activities, encourage movement of tourists’ and also provide a fillip to the pace of development in adjoining regions.” The flight from Dimapur will depart at 0950 hours and reach Imphal at 1040 hours. While, the departure timing from Imphal will leave at 0845 hours and reach Dimapur at 0935 hours. Flights from Kolkata bound for Dimapur will leave at 0645 hours.
Air Deccan was recently adjudged India’s Best Low Cost Airline in the Readers’ Choice Survey 2006 conducted by Outlook Magazine. The parameters selected were connectivity, service, efficiency and value for money.
India’s fastest growing low cost airline and the 2nd largest airline in the country, with a market share of 19.7% (November 2006) Air Deccan has the largest network in India today covering 60 airports, plying over 300 flights a day. The airline currently operates a brand new fleet of 18 Airbus A – 320 aircraft, with an average age of 1.5 years and 23 ATR Turboprop aircraft. Since its inception in August 2003, Air Deccan has carried over 8.7 million passengers and the numbers are growing everyday. The airline has recorded an on time performance of (within 1 hour) of 97.19% for January 2007.
