Air charters chart their way up
Speaks to Shailendra Seth, Director India- Chapman Freeborn about the burgeoning Indian air charter industry, passenger charter services, travel solutions, and its global partnerships to offer its clientele a better range of products.
Which section of tourists use charters most? (eg., luxury, medical, pilgrimage, etc.)
We can divide the charter market into Luxury/ HNW Individuals and Medical Tourism. Primarily, it is the luxury segment, which is more dominant. By what quantum of commission do travel agents and tour operators stand to gain by booking charters?
We work on a case to case basis; however we usually look at 5 – 7 % commission of the charter amount. What has been ChapmanFreeborn’s (CF) experience in domestic charters and inbound traffic?
We have seen a gradual maturing of the market, with a large portion of the Indian
having taken to private charters to travel domestically. With the growth of TierII cities, the number of charters to such destinations has been on the increase. Plus, foreign tourists also contribute to the growth of passenger charters. What kind of travel solutions does CF offer?
Chapman Freeborn is a full-service provider for charter services and arranges customised air-travel solutions. Depending on individual requirements, we provide a full charter for any number of people, anywhere in the world. What growth do you see for the MICE and corporate market in India?
The MICE industry in India is growing day-by-day. There is a desire to move away from the conventional, and to redefine “business with pleasure”. With the upgrading of MICE facilities, India is now better-equipped to bid for international conferences. How developed is the corporate and MICE market in India with respect to air charter services?
Destinations are now courting Indian corporations for incentive travel, conferences and exhibitions. But while major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore are well-connected internationally, flight services and airport investment elsewhere is limited and needs to improve. What options can travellers have with respect to planes?
We have access to 72215 seaters for domestic charters, but availability becomes a problem in peak season (OctJan). The charter options we provide to clients range from ATR, 48/72, Q400, CRJ-700, B737, B-738, B-739, A-320. CF has made global alliances to facilitate passenger movement. Could you elaborate?
Chapman Freeborn has recently collaborated with EYOS expeditions that specialise in chartering luxury expedition yachts to some of the most remarkable places on Earth. What will be the new offerings that we can expect from CF this year and ahead?
The experience of an exclusive flight extends to the cuisine offered onboard. Menus can be tailor made to suit the individual taste of the group. We can also provide onboard flight managers. Also, the aircrafts can be used for promotional events, product launches, joy rides as incentives, etc.