Deccan to induct 40-50 seater aircraft for domestic, regional markets:
Domestic aviation poised for take off
SHIRAJIV SIRIMANE
Deccan Aviation Lanka Limited is looking at inducting a 40-50 seater
aircraft to be operated in the domestic and regional markets.
“We are also looking at introducing domestic flights to Trincomalee.
We are in contact with several leading airlines to see how we could
offer air connectivity directly from the international airport.,” said
Director of Deccan Aviation, Denham Schokman.
Denham Schokman |
“With the war ending we are optimistic about the future, we feel
domestic aviation is poised for a take off specially in areas such as
Trincomalee and Arugam Bay which are tourist attractions” he said. In
keeping with the company’s goal of extending operations regionally,
Deccan is holding discussions with the industry to connect guests from
the Maldives to Sri Lanka for day excursions in their executive
aircraft.
The company’s fixed wing division saw a year on year revenue growth
of 125% for the nine months ending in 2008.
This is a significant achievement given the challenges that 2008
posed in terms of high fuel prices and a slowing economy. Hot on the
heels of a phenomenal 2008 the fixed wing division of the company
kicked-off the year with a record number of 60 charter flights last
month. However, the helicopter division saw a 4% dip in revenue in 2008
primarily as a result of the low number of tourist arrivals.
The company will look at 2009 as an year for cost optimization and
improving efficiencies. “We will look at extending our services
regionally. Currently our parent company Deccan Charters India owns and
manages over 50 aircraft in India, and we are able to provide aircraft
to our clients from this pool at very short notice” said Schokman.
Since the commencement of commercial operations in 2004, Deccan
Aviation Lanka continues to be the only helicopter charter operator and
premier charter airline in the country.
Deccan operates an all US fleet of aircraft consisting of Bell
helicopter and Hawker Beech 1900C aircraft. The latter is a luxurious
twin engine pressurized aircraft which conduct flights to the Maldives
and Indian destinations. Deccan has an ongoing contract since March 2008
with ICRC to fly patients and humanitarian aid staff between Colombo and
Jaffna.
Favourite Holidays also has a partnership with Executive Jet Asia of
Singapore.
“Deccan will shortly introduce a corporate loyalty card for selected
members with a host of benefits” said Head of Corporate Communications
for Deccan Aviation Lanka, Mario Stubbs.
“This card will provide the holder with endless privileges ranging
from special frequent flyer fares to access to VIP lounges at
international and domestic airports.” |