Air travel in India is experiencing significant growth, indicating a rising demand for airline services that is expected to continue. Industry leaders, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA), have reported a remarkable increase in passenger numbers. According to their forecasts, passenger traffic is anticipated to double by 2035. In 2024, several new flight routes were introduced between various Indian destinations and between India and international locations. Here is an overview of some of these new routes and approximate air fares, which may be subject to change.
IndiGo introduced direct flights from Bengaluru to the stunning destination of Bali in March this year. With convenient departures from Bengaluru at 1:10 AM, you'll arrive in Denpasar by 10:15 AM, ready to explore paradise. Return fares begin at around INR 33,000, making it an ideal getaway, especially with seasonal pricing options to suit your travel plans. You should know that Indonesia has taken a significant step to safeguard Bali's natural beauty and cultural richness by temporarily halting the construction of new hotels, villas, and nightclubs in specific tourist areas. This crucial move aims to prevent overtourism, over-development, protect the environment, and preserve the island's cultural heritage.
Flying to Malaysia from India has never been easier or more affordable, thanks to AirAsia's new direct flight from Port Blair to Kuala Lumpur starting mid-November. This route is the first international connection from the Andaman Islands, opening up exciting travel opportunities. Departing Port Blair at 10:55 AM and landing in vibrant Kuala Lumpur at 4 PM makes for a quick and seamless journey. With one-way fares starting at just around INR 3,500, depending on the season, this is the perfect chance to explore Malaysia.
Air India Express has recently introduced direct flights between Chennai and Kuwait, making travel more convenient. Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways also serve this popular route, giving you plenty of options. The Air India Express flight takes off from Chennai at 6:50 PM, arriving in Kuwait at 10:05 PM, perfectly timed for evening arrivals. Kuwait Airways offers a morning flight, leaving at 7:40 AM and landing at 11:05 AM, while Jazeera Airways operates a late-night flight from 1:40 AM to 4:30 AM. With one-way fares starting at just around INR 16,000, now is the perfect time to book your journey and explore Kuwait.
Now, you can experience the convenience of direct flights from New Delhi to Phnom Penh with Cambodia Angkor Air, launched in mid-June! Operating four times a week, these flights depart New Delhi at 11:30 PM and arrive in the vibrant city of Phnom Penh at 6:05 AM. You can easily explore this enchanting destination with one-way fares starting at around INR 15,000.
Lufthansa has launched direct flights from Hyderabad to Frankfurt, opening up seamless travel to Europe. These flights depart Hyderabad at 3:45 AM and arrive in Frankfurt at 9:05 AM, making it easy to maximise your time. With one-way fares starting at around INR 43,000, it's an excellent opportunity to explore Europe's vibrant cultures and opportunities.
Etihad Airways announced the launch of direct flights between Jaipur and Abu Dhabi in June. With two excellent schedules, you can select the one that best suits your travel plans. Departing from Jaipur at 3:15 AM, you’ll arrive in Abu Dhabi by 6 AM, making it perfect for early risers. Alternatively, they have a 9:30 PM flight that arrives at 12:15 AM if you prefer a late-night departure. Plus, with one-way fares starting at around INR 15,317, your journey to Abu Dhabi has never been more convenient and affordable.
Cathay Pacific has reintroduced its direct flights between Chennai and Hong Kong as of February, marking a welcome return after nearly four years. Enjoy the convenience of flying as the flight departs Chennai at 1:50 AM and lands in vibrant Hong Kong at 9:35 AM. With one-way fares starting at around INR 24,000, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore new horizons.
AirAsia launched the first direct flights connecting Jaipur and Kuala Lumpur in April. The flight departs from Jaipur at 10:20 PM and arrives in vibrant Kuala Lumpur at 6:00 AM. With one-way fares starting at around INR 10,000, now is the perfect opportunity to explore a new destination next year.
IndiGo has launched a direct route from Bengaluru to Lakshadweep in March, offering effortless access to this tropical paradise. The flight leaves Bengaluru at 11:20 AM and lands in Agatti at 1:45 PM, giving you ample time to soak in the sun. With one-way tickets starting at around INR 9,000, your dream getaway is more attainable than ever.
Imagine stepping aboard a flight that departs Goa at 7:05 AM and whisks you away to the breathtaking beauty of Lakshadweep by 9 AM. FLY91, the newest gem in India’s aviation scene, announced its inaugural flight from Goa to Agatti in March. With one-way tickets starting at around INR 4,000, it’s time to elevate your travel experience and explore these stunning islands like never before.
IndiGo became the first airline to operate from the newly inaugurated Maryada Purshottam Shri Ram International Airport in Ayodhya, which opened its doors to the public in January. This landmark airport is designed to enhance connectivity and cater to the growing number of travellers visiting the region. Following the launch, IndiGo began offering direct flights from both Delhi and Ahmedabad, providing convenient travel options for passengers looking to explore Ayodhya's rich cultural heritage and historical significance. In response to the new facility, several other airlines, including Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, have also added flights, further expanding the range of options available to travellers.
The Northeast region is set to receive a significant boost in air travel. Reports indicate that the number of weekly flights in cities like Guwahati will increase from 63 to an impressive 106. These flights will connect Guwahati directly to eight major cities, including Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. This expansion is made possible by Air India Express, which is enhancing its flight services to the Northeast, making it easier to explore this diverse region. This winter, the airline will also introduce additional flights to other cities in the Northeast, such as Imphal and Agartala, leading to better connectivity for all travellers, whether flying within India or coming from abroad. Read more about it here.
Himachal Pradesh has always been a favourite destination for tourists seeking scenic mountain getaways. In August, the Himachal Pradesh government announced the introduction of new flight routes to boost tourism in the state. These new routes will connect Chandigarh, Kullu, and Dharamsala. According to a statement, a direct flight between Kullu and Dharamsala is expected to significantly benefit the tourism sector, fulfilling a long-standing request from visitors. More here.
