Tata-owned Air India (AI) is set to expand its international network in March 2025, enhancing connectivity to key destinations worldwide. This expansion aligns with the airline’s ongoing transformation under the Tata Group, aiming to strengthen its global presence and cater to the rising demand for international travel.
The new flight schedules will benefit business and leisure travelers, providing more travel options to Africa, Europe, and East Asia. Let’s take a closer look at Air India’s upcoming route expansions.
Air India’s International Route Expansions for Summer 2025
Air India has announced frequency increases on multiple international routes from Delhi (DEL). These changes are designed to improve connectivity and offer passengers more flexibility when traveling abroad.
Delhi-Nairobi (Kenya) – Strengthening India-Africa Ties
- Current Frequency: 3 flights per week
- New Frequency: 4 flights per week
- Effective Date: April 1, 2025
This route is crucial for business and tourism, linking Delhi with East Africa’s economic hub. Nairobi is a key entry point for African safari destinations and a significant trade center. Air India is the only airline operating direct flights on this route, using a Boeing 787-8.
Apart from Delhi, Mumbai (BOM) is the only other Indian city with direct flights to Nairobi.
Delhi-Seoul (South Korea) – Catering to Growing Business & Cultural Exchange
- Current Frequency: 4 flights per week
- New Frequency: 5 flights per week
- Effective Date: April 1, 2025
South Korea is an important market for both business and tourism. With increasing trade relations and cultural ties, the demand for flights between Delhi and Seoul (ICN) continues to rise.
Air India currently competes with Korean Air, which operates three weekly flights on this route using a Boeing 787-9. Delhi remains the only Indian city with direct connectivity to South Korea.
Delhi-Vienna (Austria) – Strengthening European Connectivity
- Current Frequency: 3 flights per week
- New Frequency: 4 flights per week
- Effective Date: May 11, 2025
Vienna is a major European cultural and business hub, serving as a gateway to other parts of the continent. The additional flights will benefit both tourists and business travelers, ensuring more flexible travel options.
Air India is currently the only airline operating direct flights between India and Austria, using a Boeing 787-8. While the Lufthansa Group has shown interest in launching Austrian Airlines flights to Delhi, Air India remains the sole operator for now.
Delhi-Zurich (Switzerland) – Meeting High Demand from Indian Travelers
- Current Frequency: 4 flights per week
- New Frequency: 5 flights per week
- Effective Date: May 31, 2025
Switzerland is one of the most popular destinations for Indian travelers, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant economy. The increased frequency will help accommodate the peak summer demand for both tourists and business travelers.
Air India competes with Swiss International Airlines, which operates daily flights on this route using an Airbus A330-300. Air India services the route with a Boeing 787-8.
Apart from Delhi, Mumbai (BOM) is the only other Indian city with direct flights to Switzerland.
Why Is Air India Expanding These Routes?
1. Rising Demand for International Travel
Post-pandemic, India has seen a significant increase in international travel, driven by:
- A surge in leisure tourism, especially to Europe, East Asia, and Africa.
- A growing number of Indian travelers exploring new destinations.
- Increasing business ties and trade relations between India and global markets.
2. Indian Diaspora Travel Demand
With one of the largest global diasporas, Indians frequently travel abroad to visit family, work, or study. This has created consistent demand for long-haul flights, which Air India is now strategically addressing.
3. Air India’s Transformation Under Tata Group
Since its takeover by the Tata Group, Air India has been undergoing significant changes, including:
- Fleet modernization – adding newer aircraft for better efficiency.
- Service improvements – enhancing customer experience.
- Network expansion – increasing global reach.
The increased flight frequencies are a part of Air India’s efforts to regain its status as a premier international airline.
Air India’s international expansion in summer 2025 is a strategic move to strengthen its global presence. By increasing flight frequencies on key routes to Africa, Europe, and East Asia, the airline aims to meet the growing demand from both business and leisure travelers.
With rising interest in international travel and the Indian diaspora’s continued demand for connectivity, Air India is positioning itself for long-term global growth. The Tata Group’s ongoing investments in fleet upgrades and service enhancements further reinforce the airline’s commitment to becoming a leading international carrier once again.
