Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Jun 25: The sudden increase in airfare from Dubai to Mangaluru has posed a significant challenge for middle-class families residing in the Gulf nation. coastal residents
With summer holidays underway in Dubai and Bakrid festival approaching, many natives of coastal districts who live in Dubai plan to visit their hometown during this time of the year. However, the exorbitant airfare has forced numerous families to reconsider their travel plans.
As of June 25, the one-way ticket price on Air India Express was Rs 53,887 for June 26, it was Rs 50,471. In IndiGo, the prices stood at Rs 50,582 and Rs 52,000, respectively. For a family of four, the cost of tickets alone would amount to Rs 2 lakhs.
However, the ticket prices from Mangaluru to Dubai are relatively low, with tickets available for as low as Rs 12,000 to Rs 15,000. The ticket prices from Kozhikode and Mumbai to Dubai are even lower.
Currently, Air India Express and IndiGo are the only airlines offering direct flights from Mangaluru to Dubai. During the summer holidays in Dubai, tickets are in high demand, especially for families with children and elderly members who prefer direct flights.
Previously, SpiceJet from Mangaluru, GoAir from Kannur, and Go First from Kannur offered tickets at lower prices. Some passengers would purchase tickets at special fares and group discounts, selling them to travel agents at a lower commission. This allowed passengers to fly from Mangaluru at a discounted rate, saving Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000.
Zakir Iqlas, a travel agent, commented, "During the summer holidays in Dubai, ticket prices tend to rise. However, this year the prices are exceptionally high due to the limited number of flights operating between Mangaluru and Dubai. Prices are comparatively lower when flying via Mumbai or Kannur, but the journey becomes more tedious. Rates tend to decrease in September and October, only to increase again during Christmas and New Year."
Kayinath Aara, a housewife residing in Dubai, expressed her frustration, stating, "Currently, the ticket prices exceed Rs 50,000 per person. It would cost us Rs 2 lacs solely for travel expenses. Despite having holidays and the Bakrid festival, we are unable to fly to Mangaluru. Consequently, we have had to postpone our trip."