A recent survey by the online social platform LocalCircles highlights a growing concern among airline passengers about the exorbitant prices of food and beverages at airports across India. According to the survey, a significant 60% of respondents reported paying 100-200% more for food and drinks at airports compared to prices at railway stations or organized retail outlets.
The survey, which garnered over 28,000 responses from passengers in 309 districts, revealed the following demographic breakdown: 61% of respondents were men, 39% women, with 43% hailing from Tier-1 cities, 30% from Tier-2 cities, and 27% from Tier-3, Tier-4, and rural areas.
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Friday 17 Jan. 2025
Passengers cited examples of a simple snack, such as a samosa or patty, costing over ₹200, while a full meal like a thali was priced above ₹500. Beverages such as tea, coffee, or soft drinks ranged between ₹200-300, significantly higher than comparable offerings at mall food courts or railway stations.
Delays due to weather conditions, such as fog, further aggravate the problem, as passengers are often left with no affordable food options while waiting for their flights. Unlike airports, major railway stations in cities like Delhi and Mumbai offer a mix of small vendors, food stalls, and franchise outlets, providing travelers with affordable choices.
The survey noted that these high prices discourage many passengers from purchasing food at airports. Some resort to carrying their own snacks, despite the inconvenience posed by security checks, weight restrictions, and the risk of spillage.
LocalCircles emphasized the need for airports to reconsider their pricing model, suggesting a shift to a high-volume, low-margin strategy. With the government aiming to make air travel more affordable, especially as 70% of traffic is on low-cost carriers, the introduction of lower-cost food options at airports is crucial for enhancing passenger satisfaction.
