The increase in bus ticket prices is causing citizens to turn to air transportation. Samet Koç, CEO of Heybilet, emphasizes that the reason for this is the decrease in the price difference between airplane and bus tickets.
The recent increase in bus ticket prices has led to a change in consumer preferences. Many people who are planning to travel are now turning to airplanes. The latest data released by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure also indicates a significant increase in the number of passengers opting for air travel, especially in the past two years. According to this data, the number of passengers served at airports in Turkey in 2022 increased by 42.1% compared to the previous year, reaching 182 million 334 thousand. Samet Koç, the CEO of the online ticket platform Heybilet, states that the reason for this is the narrowing price difference between airplane and bus tickets. He evaluated the issue from the perspectives of both consumers and industry players.
“Bus and airplane ticket prices are competing.”
Samet Koç provides information about the changes in passengers’ transportation preferences, saying, “In recent times, many products and services have experienced price increases. Airplane and bus tickets have also been affected by this situation. Currently, bus tickets are in competition with airplane tickets. This situation has also paved the way for changes in consumer habits. Due to the minimal price difference, passengers have started to prefer air transportation, which allows them to save time. When the advantages offered by online travel ticket platforms are added to this, the existing difference decreases even further. Through the campaigns, promotions, and gifts we offer to our users, we transform their journeys into comfortable experiences.”
“Demand is increasing for online ticket platforms.”
Samet Koç also shared the following information about the increasing demand for online ticket platforms: “In the past, passengers used to purchase tickets through travel agency offices, but today a significant portion prefers online ticket platforms. This is because consumers can track campaigns, easily access cheap tickets, and find a point of contact for cancellations and complaints through these platforms. As Heybilet, whose mission is to constantly increase customer satisfaction, we not only provide them with the opportunity to purchase the most economical and practical tickets but also offer the option of installment payments with our reliable payment method. We respond to our customers’ questions through our live support panel 24/7. We are preparing to introduce many innovations on our user-friendly website and mobile application in the near future.”
