Why Are Airfares on the Rise?
If you've searched for flights recently, you’ve likely noticed a significant jump in prices. This isn't just your imagination. A combination of factors is currently driving up the cost of air travel in India. Airlines like Air India have announced a reduction
in domestic flight operations by as much as 22% for the period of June to August 2026. This cut in capacity, affecting numerous routes, is a direct response to soaring aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices and other operational challenges. When fewer seats are available, especially during a high-demand period like the summer holidays, prices inevitably rise. This situation is compounded by dynamic pricing algorithms used by airlines, which automatically increase fares as demand surges and supply dwindles.
The Festive Booking Challenge
The current price hike is a worrying sign for those planning to travel during India’s peak festive season, which includes Dussehra, Diwali, and Christmas. Diwali, in particular, is the country's single largest domestic travel event, with passenger traffic known to surge by 18-25%. During this period, fares on popular routes can easily double or even triple, especially in the last two to four weeks before the festival. The travellers who secure the best deals are almost always those who plan well in advance. Understanding the price surge timeline is key to avoiding the most expensive tickets. As August begins, we are entering a crucial window where prices start to climb steadily before the major festive spike.
Book Early, But Not Too Early
The golden rule of festive booking is to act early. For major festivals like Diwali, the sweet spot for booking is typically 60 to 90 days in advance. This means that for Diwali 2026, which falls in early November, the ideal time to book is between early August and mid-September. Booking more than four months out rarely helps, as airlines may not have released their promotional festive fares yet. However, waiting until the last 30 days can be a costly mistake, with prices potentially jumping by 50% to 150%. Setting a fare alert on a price comparison website can help you monitor your desired route and book when a good price appears.
Flexibility is Your Best Friend
If your travel plans have some wiggle room, you can unlock significant savings. Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday is often cheaper than on weekends. The most expensive days to travel are typically the Friday and Saturday immediately preceding a major festival. Consider shifting your travel dates by a few days to avoid the peak rush. For example, flying on the day of Diwali itself can be 20-40% cheaper than flying in the days before it, as most people want to have already arrived at their destination. Another effective strategy is to consider flying into a nearby, smaller airport rather than the main city hub, which can sometimes offer lower fares.
Look Beyond Direct Flights and Airlines
While direct flights are convenient, they are often the most expensive option. Exploring connecting flights can sometimes lead to substantial savings, provided you have the time. When booking, it is also wise to compare prices across multiple airlines. Don't assume your usual carrier has the best deal. Use flight comparison tools to get a comprehensive view of all available options for your route. Sometimes, booking two separate one-way tickets on different airlines can be cheaper than a round-trip ticket with a single carrier, so it pays to explore all possibilities.
Consider Alternatives to Flying
For certain routes, air travel isn't the only option. If flight prices are prohibitively high, it’s worth checking the availability and cost of overnight trains or buses. Travelling by an air-conditioned sleeper train can be a comfortable and significantly cheaper alternative, saving you money not only on the ticket but also on a night's accommodation. While the journey may take longer, the cost savings can be substantial, making it a viable option for budget-conscious travellers.
