From annual family vacations to weekend getaways and bucket list adventures, travel journeys have become an increasingly popular trend in recent years. However, amidst the growing eagerness for travel, passengers often find themselves grappling with the challenges posed by major airlines, including delays, cancellations and other inconveniences.
Recently, I had the opportunity of experiencing a refreshing change in the realm of air travel with FLY91, a regional airline, which proudly calls ‘Goa’ its home. Within a short span of time from its launch, it has quickly committed to offering passengers a truly elevated travel experience.
WHY FLY91?
Operating from Goa’s newly setup Manohar International Airport at Mopa, FLY91 boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance passenger comfort and convenience.
What’s with the number 91? I checked up and turns out it is derived from the country code of India, +91. This subtle nod to its national identity could be reflected in the cohesion and professionalism the airline stands for.
The flight to Agatti, Lakshadweep, was to take off at 7.15 am and touch down Agatti at 9 am, so reaching the airport an hour prior seemed helpful. From a streamlined check-in processes to punctual departures, FLY91 has set in place a high standard of efficiency and reliability.
The check-in was swift and no matter the early morning lag of the ground staff, they managed to regroup themselves and handover the boarding pass.
FLY91 HQ
We could head to the waiting area while checking out the newly-built Mopa airport, which FLY91 calls its headquarters. Goa’s Mopa airport is slowly pacing to be the game changer in the world of travel.
It boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and modern facilities along with ample capacity to accommodate domestic and international flights and is equipped to handle a significant increase in passenger traffic.
Being Goa’s second international airport, Mopa plans on bringing in new avenues for tourism, trade, and economic growth. Spending 45 to 50 minutes didn’t seem like a task but more of an exploration of what Goa offers in terms of travel. Within the time frame, the boarding was managed quite smoothly and there I was in the aircraft – all set to take off on my first trip to Lakshadweep.
TIME FOR TAKE-OFF
The part that excited me was experiencing the early morning sunrise at the airport and hoping the take-off would bring out that and yes it was also fulfilled by FLY91. There were no delays, one of the few flights that I have taken in the last couple of months that took-off on time.
Seated by the window, I was delighted to observe the ever-changing landscape along the Arabian Sea throughout the one hour 45-minute flight. The take-off happened in a snap of a second and watching Goa’s green cover and the clouds with silver lining of the sun rise, it was perfect to sit back and get an aerial view at the world below.
KNOW THE AIRCRAFT TYPE
As per what I have known about ATR 72-600 aircraft, they are suited for short runways, remote airports, and challenging weather. They also provide passenger comfort with spacious cabins, ergonomic seating, and ample overhead storage.
However, this seemed to be just right and the journey was a blissful one. The legroom and the ergonomic seating was simply relaxing while timing the journey to watch the world outside.
SNACKS AND JUICES ON BOARD
The cabin crew with their uniforms inspired by FLY91’s butterfly logo, were quiet helpful assisting to choose the snacks on the menu. Though the menu was simple and short, it however offered the regional delights and healthier food options for its guests.
The all in-flight snacks include fruit juices, which guests could purchase for Rs 100. Being a regional flight from Goa, they decided to provide its guests local favourites, from tropical flavours to exotic surprises. Juices came in options including aam panha, cashew apple, classic kokum magic, exotic jamun surprise, tangy bimbli delight, divine mango fantasy, etc.
However, the snacks had healthier options that included assorted ragi chips, nuts, and cookies. I tried their masala ragi chips which had a creamy cheese dip, a simple filling and healthier choice of options. And, then, I went on for the classic kokum magic. The kokum juice or sherbet has always been a refreshing cooler that suited well with the journey.
AERIAL VIEW FOR REAL
There were not much turbulence and noise, and the one hour and 45-minutes long flight in no time made it to Agatti. The best part was the aircraft taking a turn over the most-beautiful waters of India, the Arabian Sea, and seeing the islands of Lakshadweep, it felt the word ‘breathtaking’ was turning into reality. Breathtaking was not just the world below but the turquoise blue and green waters and the perfectly bounded islands of Lakshadweep.
You are exhorted to stay awake and watch how the waters simply brings out hues of turquoise blues and greens. These feel like real wallpaper images come true, the ones you see in photographs is something different altogether.
TOUCH-DOWN
Agatti airport is said to have a relatively short runway, compared to many others. It poses a challenging task for the pilot, however, you are so awed by the Lakshadweep archipelago, the crystal clear waters and the designated green cover that you realise that yes, you touched down with a skip and that the thrill of the beautiful landscape is simply something different.
The seat belt alert signalled its release, allowing passengers to step off the aircraft. As I made my way to the exit, the air hostess extended her gratitude, and we were greeted by the beauty reminiscent of India’s Maldives.
NEXT TIME, FLY91 – FEEL ON CLOUD 91
Overall, FLY91 showcased the potential for regional airlines to redefine the air travel landscape. With a focus on quality service, timely operations, and a touch of national pride, FLY91 exemplifies the future of regional air travel in India.