Deccan, Spice have rival: IA’s low-cost carrier to take off

While the airline is yet to decide on a brand name for its low cost option, sources said, ‘India Shuttle’ is one suggestion that is being preferred. This, however, is yet to receive final approval as IA officials work double time to give shape to the new plan.

The model is being worked on the logic that low cost options have better survival chance if operated under the umbrella of a larger airline. Just like Delta Connection, Silk Air and other such models, IA is toying with the idea of providing options in the domestic sector while the principal airline looks at servicing trunk routes and reaching out to more destinations abroad.

The first of the five A319s are expected in November . By March, the entire delivery will be complete. The first lot of A319s will have full economy class configuration which means that the capacity of each will be almost 145, equal to that of an Airbus 320 which IA currently operates.