Dubai: Airfares and hotel prices have certainly dropped from their post-pandemic highs, but they remain higher than pre-pandemic levels. And according to Gaurav Bhatnagar, Joint Managing Director of TBO Tek, these high prices aren’t likely to return to 2019 levels anytime soon. “Whether airline pricing or hotel rates, prices have eased off their peaks.
However, the new normal is pricing that’s higher than what it used to be before the pandemic,” Bhatnagar explained. He also added, “I don’t think prices will change dramatically. My advice: if you’re planning to travel, book early.
Prices rarely decrease. Premium destinations, quality properties, and top-tier hotels will always command a premium. Expecting a significant price drop is unrealistic.
” In the past year, airlines have increased seat availability and supply chain issues impacting aircraft production are starting to ease. He said that India, in particular, has seen a notable rise in air capacity, with airlines like Air India and IndiGo expanding their fleets to meet growing demand. Bhatnagar stated that demand is gradually returning to pre-pandemic levels.
It has even surpassed those levels in some regions, such as the Middle East. “APAC, however, is still not where it was back in 2019, mainly due to slower outbound travel from China,” he said. While travellers may not see prices return to 2019 levels, Bhatnagar believes the current stability points to a more balanced market where supply and demand .
