Why in news?
India’s regional carrier Alliance Air launched the Fare se Fursat scheme on 13 October 2025. This pilot initiative, which ran until 31 December 2025, offered passengers a single, fixed airfare regardless of booking date. The scheme aimed to make air travel more affordable and predictable, especially for first‑time flyers from smaller towns.
Background
In India, airline ticket prices usually vary based on demand, season and booking timing. While dynamic pricing helps airlines manage revenues, last‑minute fares often soar and discourage travellers. Fare se Fursat was introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to address these concerns and align with the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which seeks to improve regional connectivity.
Features of the scheme
- One price for every seat: Passengers paid the same fare irrespective of when they booked, even on the day of departure. This removed the anxiety of sudden price hikes.
- Pilot phase: The scheme was tested between 13 October and 31 December 2025 on select regional routes to gauge passenger response and operational feasibility.
- Part of UDAN: Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu said the initiative aligned with UDAN’s goal of democratising air travel for the middle and lower‑middle classes. Alliance Air, which connects many tier‑2 and tier‑3 cities, acted as the backbone of this scheme.
- Reducing fare volatility: By offering a static fare, the scheme introduced transparency and stability in pricing, helping travellers plan budgets and encouraging first‑time flyers.
- Complementary initiatives: The Ministry also launched Udan Yatri Cafés at airports, selling tea and snacks at subsidised prices to make flying more comfortable and affordable.
Significance
- Encouraging regional travel: Predictable fares can attract passengers from small towns who might otherwise opt for trains or buses.
- Public service approach: The scheme reflects the government’s emphasis on accessibility over profitability, positioning Alliance Air as a social connector rather than just a commercial airline.
- Potential for expansion: If successful, the model could inspire similar pricing strategies on other regional routes or carriers, fostering inclusive growth in aviation.
Source: Press Information Bureau
