Air Sahara was an Indian airline established in 1993 and headquartered in New Delhi. It operated domestic and international flights, primarily connecting major cities in India. In 2007, it was acquired by Jet Airways and rebranded as JetLite, eventually ceasing operations in 2012.
Services
- In-flight Meals : Air Sahara offered complimentary meals and beverages on all flights, focusing on Indian cuisine and catering to various dietary preferences.
- Frequent Flyer Program : The 'Sahara Club' loyalty program rewarded frequent travelers with points that could be redeemed for free flights and other benefits.
- Customer Service : Known for its courteous and efficient staff, Air Sahara ensured a comfortable travel experience for passengers, with a focus on prompt and friendly service.
- Onboard Entertainment : Passengers had access to a range of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, music, and TV shows, to make their journey enjoyable.
- Business Class : The airline offered a premium business class service with larger seats, extra legroom, and dedicated check-in counters for a seamless travel experience.
Expriences
- Amitabh Bachchan : The Bollywood superstar appreciated Air Sahara for its punctuality and excellent in-flight service, making it his preferred choice for domestic travel.
- Aishwarya Rai : The actress mentioned the airline's attentive and respectful staff, which made her frequent flights comfortable and enjoyable.
- Shahrukh Khan : Praised Air Sahara's luxury and hospitality during a promotional event, stating that it felt like home in the air.
Interesting Facts
- First Private Airline : Air Sahara was one of the first private airlines in India, challenging the dominance of Indian Airlines.
- Rebranding : Post-acquisition by Jet Airways, it was rebranded as JetLite and continued to serve as a low-cost carrier until its operations ceased.
- International Routes : It operated international flights to destinations like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Chicago, expanding its reach beyond Indian borders.
- Sahara Group : The airline was part of the Sahara India Pariwar, a major business conglomerate with diverse interests.
- Fleet Size : At its peak, Air Sahara operated a fleet of over 20 aircraft, including Boeing 737s and Bombardier CRJs.
Frequent Flyers
- Mukesh Ambani : The business tycoon frequently used Air Sahara for domestic travel, citing its punctuality and reliability.
- Sachin Tendulkar : The cricket legend preferred Air Sahara for its excellent service and hospitality during his busy travel schedules.
- Narendra Modi : The Prime Minister, before his political rise, utilized Air Sahara for efficient travel across India.
- Ratan Tata : The industrialist found Air Sahara's business class service exceptionally comfortable and conducive to work.
- Priyanka Chopra : The global actress appreciated the airline's attentive staff and in-flight amenities, making her trips pleasant and stress-free.
Myths
- Government Ownership : There was a misconception that Air Sahara was government-owned, while it was actually a private airline.
- Exclusive Domestic Airline : Many believed it only operated domestic flights, though it also had several international routes.
- Expensive Fares : It was often thought to be a premium, expensive airline, but it offered competitive fares, especially after rebranding as JetLite.
Offbeat Destinations
- Guwahati : Gateway to Northeast India, known for its tea gardens and scenic beauty.
- Port Blair : Capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, famous for its beaches and historical significance.
- Jammu : Base for pilgrims visiting Vaishno Devi and known for its temples and picturesque landscapes.
- Leh : A high-altitude destination in the Himalayas, popular for adventure tourism and stunning views.
- Varanasi : One of the oldest cities in the world, revered for its spiritual and cultural heritage.
- Aurangabad : Known for the Ajanta and Ellora caves, UNESCO World Heritage Sites with ancient rock-cut temples.
- Ranchi : Capital of Jharkhand, surrounded by waterfalls and hills, ideal for nature lovers.
- Rajkot : A major city in Gujarat, known for its historical sites and vibrant culture.
- Coimbatore : Industrial hub in Tamil Nadu, also known for its pleasant climate and educational institutions.
- Trivandrum : Capital of Kerala, offering a mix of beaches, cultural sites, and greenery.
Useful Resources
Awards
- Best Domestic Airline : Awarded by several Indian travel magazines and organizations for its outstanding service.
- Service Excellence Award : Recognized for its high standards in customer service and in-flight experience.
- Operational Efficiency Award : Honored for its punctuality and operational efficiency in the competitive aviation market.