KINGFISHER AIRLINES Review

Air travel is like a commute for me on a couple of routes, where pretty much every domestic airline has a presence, and eventually the choice is basis a mix of schedule and cost. A meal on board is

not essential anymore, so that aspect is being ignored by me, especially because I try to carry some fruits with me to nibble on.

Right off the bat, there is no point comparing Kingfisher to "no frills" airlines. So, cost of the ticket is what it will be.

I have used Kingfisher about twice a month, for the past year or so, and got a Gold status with their King Club programme as an equivalent to the Jet Airways JP programme. The lounge works for me, and so does the extra attention, as well as the "priority" tags on baggage.

But when it comes to basics, here’s what I want to put forward, for economy class passengers who may or may not be travelling frequently:-

a) The Airbus-320 is certainly a far superior aircraft when compared to the Boeing-737. Both from the point of view of space as well as being quieter in the air. Kingfisher uses the A-320 family on domestic routes. (There are some regional routes served by the ATR also).

b) Their onboard "live" television is unbeatable, though I often end up catching a nap or reading something.

c) On schedules and punctuality I have not had any complaint so far.

d) On cabin cleanliness, they are right up there with the best. Who is the best? I would say, surprise, Indigo. Mainly because they have new aircraft too.

e) Their website needs to be updated and could do with some efficient improvements. Likewise, their call centres keep adding to the time taken by repeating a bit too much of the "welcome to the good time" jazz.

So now we come to the most important factor - cost. Frankly, they are certainly not the cheapest. But if you do not travel frequently, or you want people who are not frequent travellers (elderly people, nervous flyers, etc.) then spending the extra 20% or so would be well worth your while.

Most importantly, when you give feedback, you are heard. And that is one thing many corporates - including airlines - do not do in India.