Darbhanga: In a major boost to air connectivity in North Bihar, Akasa Airlines has announced the launch of direct flights between Darbhanga and Mumbai, starting July 1, 2025. The move is expected to provide much-needed relief to passengers facing high airfares and limited travel options on this route.
The inaugural flight, QP-1529, will depart Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at 10:55 AM and land at Darbhanga Airport at 1:30 PM, completing the journey in 2 hours and 35 minutes. After a 40-minute halt, the return flight will take off at 2:10 PM and reach Mumbai by 4:45 PM.
Sharp Rise in Bookings Despite High Initial Fares
Despite the service yet to start, ticket bookings have already surged, with the first-day fare crossing ₹21,000, indicating high demand. However, fares are expected to stabilize once the service becomes regular.
Akasa’s new flight will complement the existing Mumbai-Darbhanga services operated by SpiceJet and IndiGo, all of which will now run daily, enhancing travel flexibility for passengers from Darbhanga and neighboring districts like Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Araria, Sitamarhi, Supaul, Saharsa, Purnia, Samastipur, Motihari, and even parts of Nepal.
Monsoon Schedule Includes 14 Daily Flights
Darbhanga Airport witnessed 14 successful flight movements on Sunday, all arriving either on time or earlier than scheduled. The growing punctuality and frequency underscore the airport’s rising operational efficiency.
Competitive Fares Likely to Benefit Passengers
With Akasa entering the Mumbai route, airfare competition is expected to intensify. Currently, the lowest fares are:
- Darbhanga–Delhi: ₹4250 (Akasa), ₹4294 (IndiGo), ₹5889 (SpiceJet)
- Darbhanga–Mumbai: ₹6194 (IndiGo), ₹7224 (SpiceJet)
- Darbhanga–Bengaluru: ₹8449 (SpiceJet)
- Darbhanga–Hyderabad: ₹5294 (IndiGo)
- Darbhanga–Kolkata: ₹3194 (IndiGo)
Passengers Welcome More Affordable Travel
Mihir Ranjan, a student from Darbhanga, said,
“Earlier, Indigo was the only option to Mumbai and fares were very high. Akasa’s arrival will increase competition and bring fares down. It’s a big relief for students, businessmen, and working professionals.”
Echoing the sentiment, Shubham, a local entrepreneur, added,
“I often travel to Mumbai for business. The high airfare made it difficult. With lower fares now, I can fly and return quickly, saving time and money.”
Akasa’s Growing Footprint in Bihar
Akasa Airlines made its debut at Darbhanga Airport on April 4 with flights to Delhi. The addition of Mumbai to its network cements its commitment to improving connectivity in underserved regions of Bihar.
