Kingfisher Airlines, one of India's private carriers, Tuesday announced a new low fare scheme to woo armed forces personnel and government employees, including those of state-owned enterprises.

The special fares being offered till March 31, 2006, are based on flight duration, and start at Rs.1,999 for all flights that are of one hour duration or less, the airlines said in a statement.

Being offered to all personnel currently serving in the armed forces and government organisations, including state government employees, the special fares will vary according to distance and duration of flights.

When the flight duration is over one hour but less than two hours, the special fare will be Rs.2,999, while for flight duration of more than two hours, the fare will be Rs.3,999. Airport taxes of Rs.221 a ticket are extra.

"The immediate families of these personnel - parents, spouse and dependent children - are also eligible for these reduced and special fares. These special fares are available for travel to all destinations served by Kingfisher Airlines," the statement said.

Manoj Chacko, general manager (sales) of Kingfisher, said the move was an acknowledgement of the sacrifices made by defence personnel and the thankless task performed by countless government employees.

Kingfisher currently operates 56 flights a day connecting 13 key cities.