But Internet bookings are almost sure to increase.

Internet bookings were priced cheaper than booking over the phone, to reflect the reduced call centre costs and the aircraft were repainted with the web address.

Internet bookings are also possible on the website www.irctc.co.in, and you can choose an e-ticket, or have the tickets sent to you inside India by courier.

Rates are about $10 lower for weekends or for Internet bookings at www.goldenarchhotel.com.

Budget offers a 20 percent discount for Internet bookings.

The company plans to offer lower ticket prices for economy class travel by reducing its costs and cutting out travel agents' commissions by encouraging Internet bookings.

Extra service charge (1.8%) is levied on the total cost of ticket for Internet booking of tickets.

Even though the hotel earns nearly one-third less on each Internet sale, Mr. Patel deemed Internet bookings beneficial, saying, "You take what you can get."

And although the travails of the major carriers have contributed to that drop, analysts said Internet bookings are also to blame.

With market evidence that its software worked, and a burgeoning interest among airlines in Internet bookings, ITA found it easier to attract customers.