SpiceJet Unveils Non-Stop Flights Linking Ayodhya with Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai

In a significant move, low-cost carrier SpiceJet is gearing up to launch non-stop flights connecting Ayodhya with three key Indian cities starting February 1, 2024. The airline's 189-seater Boeing 737 aircraft will operate on the routes connecting Ayodhya to Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity and cater to the increasing demand for seamless travel options.

SpiceJet's Chief Commercial Officer, Shilpa Bhatia, expressed the airline's commitment to expanding connections with Ayodhya, ensuring a convenient and comfortable travel experience for passengers.

SpiceJet's Expansion Plans and Special Initiatives

SpiceJet has recently announced its plans to introduce non-stop flights connecting Ayodhya with Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. The airline emphasizes its dedication to providing enhanced connectivity, with a focus on Ayodhya. Additionally, SpiceJet has taken special initiatives, such as operating a flight from Delhi to Ayodhya on January 21, catering to passengers attending the significant Ram Temple consecration ceremony on January 22.

Competitive Landscape: IndiGo and Air India Express

In response to the growing demand for air travel to Ayodhya, airlines like IndiGo and Air India Express have also announced direct flights to this religiously significant city. IndiGo initiated direct flights between Mumbai and Ayodhya from January 15 and introduced similar services between Delhi and Ayodhya. Air India Express is scheduled to commence operations on this route from January 16.

Ayodhya Airport Inauguration and Anticipated Flights

Ayodhya recently witnessed the inauguration of its newly built airport, Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30, 2023. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has projected a significant influx of approximately 100 chartered flights at the Ayodhya airport for the upcoming Ram Temple consecration ceremony.

Airfare Surge Ahead of Consecration Ceremony

With the approaching Ram Temple consecration ceremony, airfares to Ayodhya have experienced a notable surge. Industry experts, including Indiver Rastogi, President & Group Head at Global Business Travel, Thomas Cook (India), and SOTC Travel, report that airfares from major hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai range from ₹20,000 to over ₹30,000. Return fares to Ayodhya during the week of January 22 are reported to be 30-70% higher compared to average return fares to nearby hubs like Lucknow, Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur.

Travel Tips and Costs:

• Flight Rates Soar: With the ceremony approaching, airfares to Ayodhya have seen a significant rise. According to IndiVer Rastogi, President & Group Head, Global Business Travel at Thomas Cook (India) and SOTC Travel, direct return fares to Ayodhya in the week of January 22nd are 30-70% higher compared to average return fares to nearby hubs like Lucknow, Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur.

• Planning Ahead: If you're planning a pilgrimage or visit to Ayodhya, booking your flights well in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons and major events.