Kingfisher to add more seats on A330s

Mumbai: Kingfisher Airlines is going for another image makeover. After shutting its no-frills Kingfisher Red brand, the cash-strapped airline is considering a reconfiguration of its five Airbus A330 planes in a bid to improve revenue from international routes. The plan includes removal of onboard bar and adding economy or premium economy class seats in the A330 planes.
Kingfisher flies Airbus A330 planes on London and Hong Kong routes. Currently, one of the five planes is grounded. An email query to a Kingfisher spokesperson remained unanswered.
An airlines source says the bar section is situated behind the cockpit. “It occupies the entire width of cabin and comprises of counter, sofas and stools,” he adds. The bar is open only to the executive class (Kingfisher First) passengers. The carrier’s Airbus A330 has 217 seats (30 first and 187 economy). Air India and Jet Airways also operate these planes.
An aviation expert notes that the bar is popular among the Kingfisher First passengers. “They can relax, stretch legs and chat over drinks. But, as far as revenue is concerned, it is a wasted space.”
It is learnt that the airline is considering adding up to 40 economy- or premium economy-class seats in the space freed up by removing the bar. “It could cost up $15 million (Rs 75-80 crore) to reconfigure each aircraft,” notes the expert. “But, it will bring in additional revenue for the airline.”
Pradip Lulla, former president of Travel Agents Federation of India says the reconfiguration will enable Kingfisher to compete effectively on international routes.
Amongst the international airlines, British Airways and Air France have a premium economy-class seating on India routes. Fares are 1.5 times than those of economy class, but passengers get wider seats and more leg-room.
31/12/11 Aneesh Phadnis/Business Standard

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Categories: Kingfisher Dec 2011