Rakshabandhan is becoming more expensive for many people this year. Those making last-minute flight bookings from Ahmedabad are feeling the pinch. Prices have surged to three to five times the usual rates, leaving many travellers unable to fly.
Data from online travel platforms reveals shocking fare hikes. For example, flights from Ahmedabad to Delhi are priced between ₹20,000 and ₹24,000 this Friday and Saturday. Those wanting to fly to Bengaluru face even higher prices, with tickets going up to an astonishing ₹31,000. Meanwhile, flights to Mumbai cost between ₹10,000 and ₹20,000.
The situation does not improve for the upcoming Independence Day break. The long weekend from August 15 to 16 has many people looking for flights. However, fares remain high. On August 14, a one-way flight from Ahmedabad to Delhi can peak at ₹20,000. Return flights on August 18 can cost around ₹15,000. Tickets to Mumbai may also reach ₹20,000, while Bengaluru fares hover around ₹18,000 to ₹19,000 each way.
Travel agents are voicing their concerns about these price hikes. They report that, despite available seats, airlines are inflating fares. Hitesh Purohit, Treasurer of the Gujarat chapter of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), stated, “Fares on specific weekend days shoot up astronomically.”
As a result, many Gujaratis are avoiding flights altogether. Instead, they are choosing to travel by road to nearby destinations. This trend highlights the growing frustration among travellers.
The festive season in August marks the beginning of a series of long weekends due to various festivals, including Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day. These celebrations encourage many people to travel to be with family, which sharply increases the demand for flights.
Typically, airfares see a gradual rise leading up to the festive period. However, this year, the increase has been steeper due to an influx of travellers. Domestic routes are particularly affected. Popular routes to destinations like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Goa see the most significant fare increases. For instance, flights from Delhi to Mumbai that usually cost between ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 have now jumped to ₹6,500 to ₹8,000.
International flights are also seeing price hikes. Short-haul routes to places like Dubai and Singapore have increased by a similar margin. A flight from Delhi to Dubai, which previously cost between ₹12,000 to ₹16,000, is now priced between ₹18,000 and ₹24,000. Flights to Bangkok have nearly doubled, with prices now around ₹24,000 to ₹28,000.
The demand for train tickets has also surged as travellers seek more affordable options. However, many train routes are fully booked well in advance, leaving few choices for last-minute travellers. As a result, air travel remains the only option for those needing to fly on short notice.
Experts suggest that airfare prices may increase further as the festive period approaches. Therefore, booking early is essential for travellers wanting to secure reasonable rates.
To help ease the financial burden during this festive rush, travellers can adopt several strategies. Booking flights early, comparing fares, and being flexible with travel dates can help mitigate some of the high costs.
As the festive season progresses, the surge in airfares is unlikely to let up. With major festivals leading to increased demand, it is crucial for travellers to act quickly to secure their tickets before prices rise further. By following these tips, travellers can navigate the holiday rush without overspending.