| Carrier: | Kingfisher Airlines
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| Headquarters: | INDIA
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| Founded: | 2005
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| Destinations: | 29
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| Bases: | Mumbai
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| Owners: | UB Group
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| Listed: | Yes
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| Online Booking: | Yes
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| Website: | www.flykingfisher.com
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| Fleet | A319 4
ATR-72 9 fleet at 31 July 2007
A321 6
A320s 12
| Overview - Kingfisher Airlines
Kingfisher Airlines is a subsidiary of the UB Group, one of the largest beverage companies in the world. The branding of the airline is linked to that of Kingfisher Beer, India’s largest brewery.
The airline, which is headed by the charismatic Dr Vijay Mallya, took to the skies in May 2005, and attracted attention for its high quality product with personal inflight entertainment in every seat; custom interior designs for each aircraft; valet assistance at airports and complimentary hot food and beverages. The airline initially operated a single class service but subsequently introduced a highly acclaimed First Class, allowing it to compete with Jet Airways for the high yield corporate market. In addition to its A320 family aircraft used on domestic routes, Kingfisher Airlines also operates ATR-72 turboprops on regional sectors.
Under current Indian regulations, which require airlines to operate 5 years domestic service before being granted international rights, Kingfisher will not be permitted to operate overseas until 2010. However, the airline has very clear international ambitions, with an order book for 45 widebody aircraft, including A330s, A340s, A350s and A380s. The first of these aircraft are due for delivery from February 2008, so the airline is that the 5-year qualification threshold will be reviewed prior to that date. Kingfisher has stated that it will have a “US-focused” international network with an emphasis on non-stop services.
In just over two years, Kingfisher Airlines has achieved a market share of 10% and has one of the most aggressive expansion plans of all Indian carriers during 2007. In Jun-07, it dramatically increased its influence in the market with the acquisition of a 26% shareholding in India’s largest LCC, Air Deccan, for approximately USD130 million, and an open offer for a further 20%. Through schedule coordination and joint operations in ground handling, training, and maintenance, the carriers are projecting annual cost savings of over USD70 million.
There will also be greater coordination between the two brands, with Air Deccan to adopt the Kingfisher image in its logo and to switch to a red, rather than a blue colour scheme. The combined Kingfisher / Deccan group has a market share of just over 30% and a product range spanning from the price-sensitive, first-time flyer, to the high yield business traveler, making it one of the key pillars of the airline industry.
Last updated: 24 August 2007
Copyright Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation
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