In a surprising turn of events, airline companies have once again hiked the prices of flight tickets, impacting the travel plans of many residents in the Gulf region. The increased rates observed, especially during the holiday season and the peak period in the Gulf, have seen a notable spike in ticket prices, making air travel more expensive for those planning to visit their home countries.
Escalating Prices and the Gulf Connection
As the Christmas and New Year season approaches, airlines operating between Kerala and Gulf countries have implemented a substantial increase in ticket prices. Families looking to reunite during this festive period may face financial challenges, as the cost of round-trip tickets for four members from Dubai to various destinations in India is expected to reach a staggering 200,000 AED.
Seasonal Trends and Market Dynamics
Historically, airlines adjust their ticket prices during peak seasons, responding to the increased demand for flights. However, the current surge appears to be more sustained and unprecedented. Major airlines flying from Kerala to Gulf nations have solidified their pricing strategy, contributing to a significant uptick in ticket costs. This phenomenon is not limited to flights originating from Dubai; even metropolitan cities like Delhi and Mumbai are witnessing a considerable surge in airfare to Gulf destinations simultaneously.
Impact on School Vacations
With the winter break approaching in Gulf countries from December to January, families planning to travel during this period face additional challenges due to inflated ticket prices. Concerns about the financial burden on expatriates have prompted advocacy groups to call for government intervention. Various organizations urge state and central governments to regulate and monitor airline pricing, especially during peak travel seasons.
Government Intervention and Advocacy
Recognizing the strain on expatriates caused by the soaring ticket prices, local organizations are petitioning state and central governments to take action. They argue that immediate steps need to be taken to stabilize airfares and protect the rights of travelers. The plea includes a request for regulatory measures to be imposed on airline companies during peak seasons, ensuring fair and reasonable pricing for passengers.
New Year Travel Costs from Trivandrum to Dubai
As the New Year approaches, the cost of flying from Trivandrum to Dubai in the Economy class of leading carriers, such as Emirates, is around 75,000 AED. Business class tickets, previously priced at 50,000 AED, will substantially increase during the New Year period, reaching approximately 161,213 AED. The situation is no different in airports like Kozhikode and Kochi, reflecting a consistent trend across various airports in Kerala.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the sudden surge in flight ticket prices from Gulf countries to India, especially during festive seasons, raises concerns about affordability and accessibility for expatriates. The impact on families planning to reunite during holidays is substantial, necessitating urgent government intervention to regulate and stabilize airfares. As we navigate these challenging times, it remains to be seen how authorities and airline companies will respond to the collective call for fair and transparent pricing in the aviation industry.
