India's first low cost airline, Air Deccan launched by Captain G R Gopinath, operated its first flight on 23rd August 2003 from Bangalore to Hubli.
The airline revolutionised air travel in India by offering tickets for as low as Re 1, making flying a possibility for every Indian. However, the good times did not last for long. Vijay Mallya acquired 26 per cent stake in the airline.
With the Kingfisher logo on all the aircrafts, the airline has a totally new identity and fares are no longer affordable for all. With its main base at Bangalore, Deccan Airways operate 350 flights to more than 65 cities a day within India.
In 2007, the airline was awarded the '2007 Frost & Sullivan Company of the Year' award in the area of Indian commercial aviation, and its managing director, G.R Gopinath was honoured with the 'Frost & Sullivan CEO of the Year' award.
Image: Air hostesses walk alongside a Deccan aircraft.| Photograph: Pal Pillai/AFP/Getty Images
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