Scoot Eyes Expansion In India, Reviews New Opportunities

Singaporean low-cost carrier Scoot is actively exploring new opportunities to expand its network in India, a top market for the airline, according to a senior executive.

Scoot, the budget arm of Singapore Airlines, currently operates direct flights from Singapore to six Indian cities: Amritsar, Chennai, Coimbatore, Trichy, Visakhapatnam, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Brian Torrey, Scoot's General Manager for India & West Asia, announced during a briefing in New Delhi that the airline is keen on further expanding its presence in India. He emphasized Scoot's competitive pricing, which appeals to Indian travellers, including those flying beyond Singapore.

India ranks among Scoot's top four markets, alongside Singapore and China, with potential for growth driven by the country's burgeoning middle class. This segment, with increasing disposable income, is seeking new travel destinations. Torrey noted, however, that existing bilateral air service agreements between Singapore and India pose limitations on further expansion.

Meanwhile, Agatha Yap, Scoot's Director of Marketing, highlighted the importance of the Indian market for the airline. Scoot operates Boeing 787 and A320 family aircraft on its Indian routes.

The Singapore Airlines group, which includes Scoot, serves 13 destinations across India. Meanwhile, Tata Group-owned Air India is in the process of merging Vistara, a joint venture with Singapore Airlines, into its operations. Upon completion, Singapore Airlines will hold a 25.1 per cent stake in Air India.

(With inputs from PTI)