[Article] Long-haul budget airline finally takes off

Victor

http://www.rte.ie/business/2006/1026/airlines.html

Long-haul budget airline finally takes off
October 26, 2006 08:09

Hong Kong's Oasis Airlines, the world's first long-haul budget carrier, finally took off today, a dayafter its maiden flight was delayed by Russia's last-minute refusal of overflight rights. The carrier's inaugural flight left Hong Kong International airport for London's Gatwick Airport.

'We've been informed by very responsible and reliable sources that we can definitely fly through the Moscow air space today,' Oasis chairman Raymond Lee told reporters at the airport before the take-off. Oasis CEO Stephen Miller said the airline had no information on the flight cancellations.

Almost 300 passengers were forced to wait nearly six hours on board the plane yesterday as it sat on the tarmac while officials tried to sort out the problem. Eventually they were let off the Boeing 747 in the evening and told the flight would be rescheduled for the following day.

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Lee admitted that the airline had learned of the refusal of the overflight rights an hour before the maiden flight was due to take off but said he had not informed passengers as management had believed the problem could be resolved swiftly.

He said the withdrawal of approval from the Russian authorities came as a shock after more than a year of preparation.

The incident was a severe embarrassment for Oasis, which had built up a huge amount of hype over the past few months, offering flights between Hong Kong and London for just 1,000 Hong Kong ollars ($128).

Lee would not quantify the loss of revenue due to the delay while Miller dismissed suggestions that the initial hiccup of the inaugural flight would damage the airline's reputation.

'I don't think our reputation is damaged. We don't see it as a loss and we've shown that we care for our passengers and we look after them,' he said. He added that about 10 people had been put on a different flight to London yesterday.

Oasis offered passengers who were local residents several hundred dollars in transportation costs and free food and accommodation for stranded international travellers. It also offered a full refund for some and a free flight for all passengers.

Oasis promises full-value service at budget prices - serving full meals and free drinks during its flights.

secret_squirrel

Its an interesting claim. Their leadin prices are good, but lets not forget for every $128 there's probably a $500 fare too.

Zoom have been doing low fares across the atlantic for a good few years now.