Jet Airways inducts Boeing jets, to introduce biz class seats

Jet Airways has decided to induct two B737s to its fleet in May, indicating that Indian aviation is on a strong comeback trail. The airline will also gradually introduce business class in all its JetKonnect airplanes as the demand from its premium card holders — silver, gold and platinum members — for the business class has grown.

"We will lease two Boeing aircraft from leasing company BOC Aviation. It would be deployed on domestic and short-haul international routes," two persons familiar with the development said.

The country's largest private airline had been very quick to respond to recessionary trend in the sector. It leased out jets to foreign carriers and converted its flights into alleconomy class called JetKonnect. "Shortly, we will introduce eight business class seats in all JetKonnect aircraft except ATRs. We have seen healthy trend in booking after introduction of business class seats in eight aircraft," the official said.

Domestic airlines flew 39.67 lakh passengers in March, up 23% over the corresponding month last year. Airlines posted robust growth during this period in spite of the fact that March is traditionally a lean month.