New flights launched to keep Maha Kumbh airfares in check, says govt

With additions, Prayagraj is now directly connected to 17 cities, including new destinations like Srinagar and Visakhapatnam, with indirect connectivity to 26 cities nationwide

To ensure affordable air travel during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mahotsav in Prayagraj, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced the launch of several new flights and expanded connectivity. This initiative is designed to address the surge in demand as millions of devotees travel to the city between January 13 and February 26 for this grand spiritual gathering.

 

A total of 81 additional flights were introduced in January, increasing the number of monthly seats to Prayagraj to roughly 80,000, according to the ministry. With these additions, Prayagraj is now directly connected to 17 cities, including new destinations such as Srinagar and Visakhapatnam, with indirect connectivity to 26 cities nationwide.

 

“As directed by Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu to ensure that airfares remain in check as the festival’s peak days approach, particularly during the forthcoming Shahi Snan on January 29, February 3, and other important Snan dates on February 4, February 12, and February 26, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has advised airlines to maintain sufficient capacity to accommodate passengers,” the ministry noted.

 

In response, Akasa Air will launch flights from Ahmedabad and Bengaluru, adding 4,000 seats in February. Meanwhile, SpiceJet is introducing services from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad, contributing an additional 43,000 seats.

 

The modernisation of Prayagraj Airport has been instrumental in accommodating this influx. The terminal area has expanded nearly fourfold, allowing it to handle 1,620 peak-hour passengers in the new terminal and 1,080 in the old terminal. Night flights have also been introduced, enabling 24/7 connectivity for the first time.

 

In addition to the flights, the airport has enhanced passenger amenities, including expanded parking, boarding bridges, and lounges. Affordable food options, medical facilities, and dedicated services for differently-abled travellers further underscore Prayagraj Airport’s transformation into a modern, world-class gateway, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors to the Maha Kumbh. 

CALL TO RATIONALISE FARES

 

* The move aims to address surge in demand as millions of devotees travel to Prayagraj

 

* Akasa Air to launch flights from Ahmedabad and Bengaluru, adding 4,000 seats in February

 

* SpiceJet introducing services from major cities, contributing additional 43,000 seats