MakeMyTrip, a leading online travel company, has reported an unexpected increase in last-minute flight bookings to the United States following President Trump's announcement of a proposed $100,000 fee for H1-B visa applicants. The surge in same-day and next-day bookings for long-haul travel to the US is described as atypical by the company.

Sudden Demand Spike

The announcement of the potential fee hike initially created a wave of uncertainty among Indian professionals, particularly those in the technology sector. Industry giants such as Microsoft and Meta reportedly advised their employees to return to the US promptly, citing concerns about possible entry restrictions.

This sudden increase in demand for US-bound flights is likely to result in higher fares and limited seat availability, as is common with unexpected surges in travel bookings.

Clarification on H1-B Fee Application

Following the initial announcement, the Trump administration provided clarification on the proposed fee:

• The $100,000 fee would only apply to new H1-B visa petitioners
• It would be a one-time charge
• Existing H1-B visa holders would not be affected by the new fee structure

Impact on Indian Professionals

The news has particularly significant implications for Indian professionals, as India represents the largest source of H1-B visa applicants. The tech industry, in particular, relies heavily on the H1-B visa program to recruit skilled workers from India.

MakeMyTrip's Observation

MakeMyTrip's report of the booking surge highlights the immediate reaction of many Indian professionals to the news. The company's ability to track and report on such rapid changes in booking patterns demonstrates:

1. The dynamic nature of the travel industry
2. Close ties between international policy changes and travel patterns

While the long-term effects of the proposed H1-B fee hike remain to be seen, the immediate response as observed by MakeMyTrip underscores the significant impact that immigration policies can have on international travel patterns and the operations of online travel agencies.

MakeMyTrip, a leading online travel company, has announced a strategic partnership with food delivery giant Zomato to revolutionize meal services for train passengers across India. This collaboration aims to enhance the travel experience by offering a wide array of dining options to railway travelers.

Expanded Food Choices for Train Travelers

The new service allows passengers booking train tickets through MakeMyTrip's app to order meals from over 40,000 restaurants listed on Zomato. This extensive network covers more than 130 railway stations throughout India, significantly expanding the food choices available to train travelers.

Leveraging Technology for Timely Delivery

To ensure that meals reach passengers at the right time, MakeMyTrip is utilizing its 'Live Train Status' tool. This feature helps coordinate the food preparation and delivery process with the train's real-time location, aiming to provide a seamless and punctual dining experience.

Growing Demand for E-Catering Services

The partnership comes at a time when e-catering services in Indian Railways are witnessing substantial growth. Over 90,000 passengers used Indian Railways' e-catering services daily, marking a significant 66% year-on-year increase. This trend underscores the rising demand for diverse and quality food options among train travelers.

Soft Launch and Future Plans

MakeMyTrip reports an encouraging response to the initial soft launch of this service. Building on this positive reception, the company plans to roll out targeted campaigns to increase awareness and adoption of the new food delivery option among train passengers.

Festive Season Promotion

As part of the launch and coinciding with the festive season, MakeMyTrip is offering an additional incentive to users. Customers booking train tickets through the MakeMyTrip app will receive free coupons for Zomato food orders, further encouraging them to try the new service.

This partnership between MakeMyTrip and Zomato marks a significant step in improving the dining options for train passengers in India. By combining MakeMyTrip's travel expertise with Zomato's extensive restaurant network, the initiative promises to add a new dimension to the train travel experience, offering convenience and variety to millions of railway passengers across the country.