Air Deccan starts Delhi-Kullu flights

India's low-cost carrier Air Deccan started daily flights connecting New Delhi and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh Tuesday.

The air service targets high-end tourists travelling to the scenic hill stations of Kullu and Manali. "We are flying a 48-seater aircraft for the benefit of high-end foreign and Indian tourists who wish to visit Kullu and Manali," said G.R. Gopinath, an Air Deccan official.

Until now, only Jagson Airlines operated flights thrice a week from New Delhi. Deccan's tariffs are considerably low at Rs.2700 one way. But Jagson too has lowered their fare to Rs.1,000 one way for all incoming flights from New Delhi, though the outgoing flights continue to be high-priced.

"During the peak tourist season, we intend to fly three daily flights to Kullu from New Delhi," added Gopinath. The first Air Deccan trial flight was inaugurated by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh Monday in Kullu.

Air Deccan also plans flights to Dharamsala, a resort town visited by a large number of Buddhists, especially followers of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.