REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY IN INDIA

THE REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY SCHEME (RCS) that was recently rolled out is the government’s push to increase connectivity in India particularly targeting underserved and unserved airports, while promoting the use of smaller aircraft, of up to 80 seats, to do so. We applaud this initiative that will make air links accessible to more people when airlines in India take up the challenge. We also understand, however, the hesitation that airlines have on the RCS, as the capped airfares may not always make economic sense. In this article, we offer an additional avenue for airlines to pursue, which will improve connectivity for travellers, and enable airlines to grow their operations whilst in turn fulfilling the government’s desire to enhance travel for all. BUILD ON THE POTENTIAL OF UNDERSERVED MARKETS. When we look at existing airports with existing air links, we see that much more can be done to enhance connectivity and frequency in secondary and tertiary cities. Based on IATA data, underserved markets have substantial passenger demand for direct (no stopover) and for more scheduled services. Leveraging the existing infrastructure at these airports allows airlines to further introduce new routes between cities that currently require transit to get there or cities that have a low number of scheduled

The Regional Connectivity Scheme is poised to make a significant difference in India, enabling more people, in currently ‘remote’ locations, to have access to air links at an affordable price. This initiative by the government has energised the nation and is a major development for people mobility, country infrastructure and aviation in India. However, if we are looking to improve air connectivity as a whole, we should also not overlook the existing markets that are currently underserved. Going from Point A to B requires air travellers in India to make an often lengthy transit through Point C. Such markets have existing passengers who would immediately benefit from improved connectivity, leading to further demand stimulation and growth. People will always prefer direct connectivity and it also allows the airlines to maximise yield by offering a better network. BY MARK DUNNACHIE VICE PRESIDENT, EMBRAER ASIA-PACIFIC