In a significant boost to India's international air connectivity, two major carriers have announced new services to Europe. Air India is set to resume its direct flights to Rome, while budget airline Indigo will commence operations to London's Heathrow Airport.
Air India Returns to the Eternal City
After a hiatus of nearly four years, Air India is restarting its non-stop service between Delhi and Rome. The airline will operate this route three times per week, utilizing its modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, providing multiple options for travelers.
The service officially recommences on December 1, 2024. This move re-establishes a vital air link between the Indian capital and Italy's historic capital, catering to tourists, business travelers, and the large Indian diaspora in the region. The suspension in 2020, prompted by the global pandemic, is now firmly in the rearview mirror.
Indigo Makes a Landmark Entry into Heathrow
In a parallel development marking a major expansion, low-cost carrier Indigo will launch its first-ever flights to London Heathrow. The airline will initiate a daily non-stop service connecting Delhi with one of the world's busiest airports.
This new route begins on August 5, 2024, signaling Indigo's ambitious push into long-haul international markets. Entry into Heathrow, a slot-constrained and premium airport, represents a strategic coup for the carrier, traditionally dominant in the domestic and short-haul sectors.
Enhanced Competition and Traveler Choice
The simultaneous announcements from Air India and Indigo promise to reshape the competitive landscape on key India-Europe corridors. The resumption of Air India's Rome flights restores a direct option that was missed by many, potentially easing congestion on other European hubs.
Indigo's foray into the lucrative Delhi-London market, specifically Heathrow, is poised to intensify competition. This could lead to more attractive fares for passengers and force existing players on the route to enhance their service offerings. The daily frequency provides consistent connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.
These expansions underscore the growing confidence of Indian airlines in the long-haul international travel market's recovery and growth potential. They also align with the broader government vision of improving India's global aviation footprint. For passengers, the combined effect is clear: more choices, better connectivity, and potentially lower costs for travel between India and major European destinations.
