High airfares continue to impact both leisure and business travelers in India, as highlighted by Thomas Cook India’s Executive Chairman, Madhavan Menon. Despite an increase in scheduled flights, airline capacity remains a challenge. Menon anticipates that the introduction of new aircraft will gradually ease these constraints.
Thomas Cook India is expanding its physical presence through owned and franchise outlets and enhancing its digital footprint. Menon noted improvements in visa appointment slots and processing times, which have been particularly challenging during peak seasons.
Additionally, the company is leveraging existing franchise outlets to set up foreign exchange counters, thereby increasing distribution scale rapidly. Menon also praised recent announcements of free visa entries by destinations such as Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Thailand, which are expected to boost Indian travel to these locations.
