In a strong appeal to Indigo Airlines, Sushanta Chowdhury, the Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, Consumer Affairs, Tourism, and Transport, Government of Tripura, has raised serious concerns over the rising airfare on the Agartala-Kolkata route. In a letter addressed to Indigo Airlines’ Managing Director Rahul Bhatia, the Minister expressed his disappointment over the exorbitant ticket prices and the reduction of flight services between Agartala and Kolkata.
The letter highlighted that airfare on this short 327-kilometer route has surged to between Rs 10,000 and Rs 12,000, drawing criticism from Tripura Legislative Assembly members during a September 5, 2024 session. Media outlets, both regional and national, have also echoed the public frustration regarding these inflated fares.
Sushanta Chowdhury pointed out that the State Government already took steps to support the aviation sector by reducing the VAT on Aviation Turbine Fuel from 16% to 1% since November 2021. Despite this, passengers are facing high travel costs, which Chowdhury termed as a pressing public issue.
The minister also referenced reports indicating Indigo’s upcoming winter schedule changes, including the replacement of 78-seater ATR flights with larger 180-seater Airbus aircraft. While this change will begin on October 27, 2024, the cancellation of the night flight service is expected to reduce the availability of seats by 360 on both sides, further limiting air travel options for passengers in Tripura.
In light of these developments, Chowdhury urged Indigo Airlines to reconsider its decision to withdraw three flights on the Agartala-Kolkata route and to establish a cap on the maximum fare to safeguard public interests. He emphasized that this would help ensure that air travel remains affordable and accessible for the people of Tripura.
The Government of Tripura continues to advocate for affordable air travel options, with Chowdhury stressing the need for a solution that benefits both the airline industry and the public.
(Tripura, Northeast)
