(a) whether the `Apex Fare Special Promotional Scheme` introduced by the Indian Airlines had a positive response;
(b) if so, whether the Government propose to continue the Apex Scheme;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) other steps proposed to increase its sales?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION ( SHRI SHRIPAD YESSO NAIK )
(a),(b) and (c): Indian Airlines had introduced Apex fares, an Advance Purchase scheme on select domestic sectors in Economy Class for travel between 1st August to 31st October, 2002. In view of the positive market response, the scheme has been extended with effect from 1st November, 2002 till 31st March, 2003.
(d): With a view to make the scheme more customer friendly and to increase its sales, Indian Airlines has suitably modified the Apex fares scheme. The details are as under:-
(i) At the time of introduction of the scheme, the passenger was required to purchase a confirmed ticket atleast 21 days prior to the departure. However, under the extended scheme i.e. with effect from 1st November 2002, the condition has been modified and the passenger can now purchase a confirmed ticket atleast 15 days prior to departure.
(ii) Passengers are now permitted to make voluntary changes in bookings/sector or cancel the ticket issued against Apex fares upto 15 days prior to the date of departure.
(iii) Passenger holding an Apex fare ticket are permitted to make a change from Apex fare to normal fare upto one hour before departure on the date of travel provided the passenger is rebooked on the first available flight of Indian Airlines for the same sector and the ticket is reissued on the normal fare.