In February 2020, IndiGo was the most punctual airline in India among the country’s top three carriers, according to data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The DGCA’s report shows that IndiGo recorded an on-time performance (OTP) of 74.8% in February, while SpiceJet and Air India scored 68.8% and 65.4%, respectively.
OTP measures the percentage of flights that depart or arrive within 15 minutes of their scheduled time, and it is an important metric for airlines as it reflects their operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Indian airlines have been improving their OTP over the last few years, partly thanks to the government’s efforts to address the issue. The DGCA has set a target of 85% OTP for domestic carriers, which is still a long way off for most airlines.
Among the major airports in India, Delhi had the best OTP in February, with a score of 76.36%, followed by Bengaluru (74.22%) and Mumbai (72.63%). Hyderabad and Chennai airports had slightly lower OTP, at 69.63% and 68.83%, respectively.
IndiGo remains the largest carrier in India, with a market share of 48.9% in February, followed by SpiceJet (15.2%) and Air India (12.6%). IndiGo has been expanding rapidly over the last few years, adding new routes and planes to its fleet, which now comprises 262 aircraft.
Several factors can affect an airline’s OTP, including weather conditions, technical problems, airport congestion, and staff shortages. The airlines have to deal with a range of challenges to maintain their schedules, and they need to invest in various technologies and processes to minimize the impact of these issues.
Air India, in particular, has struggled with OTP in recent years, partly due to its aging fleet and infrastructure, which has led to more delays and cancellations. The company has been implementing various measures to improve its performance, including reducing its workforce, outsourcing some of its operations, and upgrading its IT systems.
SpiceJet, on the other hand, has been investing heavily in new technologies to enhance its operational efficiency and customer experience. The company has implemented a range of digital initiatives, such as mobile check-in, self-baggage drop, and automated boarding, to streamline its processes and reduce waiting times. The company has also been expanding its fleet and network, with a focus on small cities and regional routes.
IndiGo has been focusing on expanding its international presence, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The company has been ramping up its operations in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Vietnam, and it has also launched new services to China, Myanmar, and Malaysia. The company’s strong OTP and low-cost business model have helped it maintain its leading position in the domestic market and expand abroad.
Overall, India’s aviation sector has been growing rapidly in recent years, driven by a growing middle class and increasing tourism. However, the sector still faces many challenges, such as high taxes, expensive fuel, and insufficient infrastructure. The government has been taking various steps to support the industry, including reducing taxes, privatizing airports, and easing regulatory burdens. The industry players also need to work together to address common issues and improve the overall customer experience.