Getting Flights Right

GETTING FLIGHTS RIGHT

India has an excellent domestic flight network criss-crossing the country and connecting with airports in Tamil Nadu. The leading airlines are Indigo, SpiceJet, Vistara, Go Air and Air India. In recent times, the difference in fares between low-cost airlines and full-service airlines has blurred.

The cities in Tamil Nadu with airports are Chennai, Coimbatore (for the Nilgiris), Tiruchirapalli (for the Cauvery Delta), and Madurai (for South Tamil Nadu).

SpiceJet and Indigo have the best airline networks, connectivity, fares and reliability. Vistara and Air India offer meals included in the air fare and better leg room.

Air fare typically between metro cities tends to be high due to demand and can range from INR 2,500 (US$ 40) to INR 12,000 (US$ 200) depending upon (a) how much in advance you book (b) the day of the week of travel, and (c) the time of day of travel. On non-metro sectors (or tourist sectors), fares don’t change much during the week or for the time of day.

However, tourist sector fares are higher from October – March versus April-September. Book at least 3-months in advance to get the lowest fares. Travel on the weekends is more expensive than travel during the week. And morning or evening flights between metros can be very expensive. Book flights mid-morning or mid-afternoon.

On ‘low-cost’ airlines such as Indigo and SpiceJet, seat allocation is done automatically. If you want a choice of seat, there is a charge. Front row and emergency row seats cost higher than normal seats. Other extras include pre-booked meals (extra), pre-booked extra check-in baggage allowance, and even fastlane check-in service at the airport at extra cost!

All airlines offer you only 15 kgs of check-in baggage allowance. Carry on luggage allowance is restricted to 7 kgs per passenger. You can pre-purchase extra check in allowance on most carriers.

Meals on board are generally of average quality and high cost. So its best to try and eat something in the airport lounge before boarding your flight.

Many airline websites will not accept overseas credit cards. Book your fares through Milesworth and you will get the best flight that optmises time on the ground at your destination vis-à-vis flight connections and costs. We charge you typically between INR 350-500 service fee per ticket.