Is Deccan cancelled? Don’t fret, Jet it

BANGALORE: They are rivals in distress stretching out a helping hand to each other. Budget carrier Air Deccan and full service operator Jet Airways, which have been contemplating an interlining agreement for quite some time now, finally inked the pact on Tuesday.

Under the agreement (termed Passenger Disruption Agreement), in case of cancellation of flights of either airline on account of technical reasons, weather problems, or inadequate airport infrastructure, passengers would be accommodated on the other’s flight.

“This will reduce the discomfort caused to Jet’s and our passengers due to cancellations and delays,” said Air Deccan chief revenue officer John Kuruvilla.

Commenting on the partnership, analysts say it is good news for Air Deccan passengers, who would get upgraded to a full service carrier at no extra cost.

“Air Deccan passengers will wish their flights get cancelled everyday,” joked one.

Jet Airways executive director Saroj Datta said there would be no discrimination against Air Deccan passengers once they were taken on board Jet’s aircraft.

“How can you give different service?” Datta said. “If an Air Deccan passenger is sitting next to a Jet passenger, how can we serve a meal to one and not to the other?” The agreement, he said, will help both airlines to fill up aircraft.

Analysts said the catchwords for both airlines are better plane load factor and lower rate of cancellations.

“It’s a win-win situation for all — the passengers, Jet and Air Deccan. Though one had to watch how it works,” said an analyst.

Looking into the future, Kuruvilla said, “If it works with Jet, we are open to such agreements with other airlines.”