United Airlines is likely to offer fares cheaper than competition on its proposed non-stop flight connecting New Delhi with Chicago, when the airline launches the service on October 28.
The airline, which is planning to launch the first direct service between the US and India, is also hopeful of adding more cities, including Mumbai and some parts of southern India to the network. However, this would depend on the response to the first direct flight to be launched in October.
Michael Purchon, general manager (India) said, "We are currently deciding on the fare structure. However, it is likely that our fares will be lower than existing fares, though the difference may not be too much."
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Currently, the gross return fare between Mumbai and Chicago is Rs 56,000, while the actual fares are much lower, depending on the extent of discounts being offered. United Airlines' proposed service, which will take the polar route, will shorten the time taken to fly to the US to 15.05 hours.
"The direct flight, which will be connecting the two largest democracies in the world, will connect New Delhi with Chicago, from where 69 other cities are easily accessible through connecting flights. We will consider introducing more flights from Mumbai and other parts in southern India, depending on the response to this service," Purchon added.
The proposed flight will depart from Delhi at 11.15 AM (IST) and reach Chicago at 2.50 PM (Chicago local time) the same day. The airline will be operating the 747-400 aircraft on this sector, with a total capacity of 347 passengers. This includes 14 first suite seats, 73 United business class seats and 260 economy class seats.