MUMBAI (Diya TV) — Air India is gearing up to broaden its ultra-long-haul flight services, with a particular focus on US destinations, as it bolsters its aircraft fleet with additional A350s and B777s, sources familiar with the matter disclose.
The Tata Group-owned airline, amidst operational streamlining efforts and the potential merger of Vistara, a domestic Indian airline, is planning to launch direct flights from major Indian cities to Seattle, Los Angeles, and Dallas, according to informed insiders.
Currently, Air India stands as the exclusive Indian carrier offering services to the US, with flights to Washington, New York, Newark, San Francisco, and Chicago.
Plans indicate that the airline eyes the winter schedule of 2024-25 for the debut of flights to Seattle, Los Angeles, and Dallas. A350s are anticipated to serve the Seattle route, while B777s are likely to operate flights to Los Angeles and Dallas. These proposed routes fall under the category of ultra-long-haul flights, typically exceeding 16 hours in duration.
Apart from the US routes, the airline is contemplating shifting all B777 operations to London Heathrow from both Delhi and Mumbai after the integration of two additional planes into its fleet. Presently, B787 aircraft handle flights to London from Delhi and Mumbai.
Sources suggest that the airline is also poised to commence flights to London Gatwick from Bengaluru next month, utilizing a Boeing Dreamliner
While Air India remains silent on the plans, an airline official acknowledges that the launch of flights to new destinations hinges on various factors, including crew availability
Last year, Air India made significant strides in fleet expansion, placing orders for 470 planes with Airbus and Boeing
In summary, Air India’s strategic expansion plan underscores its commitment to enhancing connectivity between India and key international destinations, leveraging its growing fleet and operational efficiency to meet the evolving travel needs of passengers.
The airline’s endeavors to introduce direct services to prominent US cities and optimize its London operations signal its proactive approach in adapting to market demands and solidifying its position in the global aviation landscape.
