India’s international connectivity during the upcoming winter schedule (WS) is set to soar to new heights. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has approved an impressive schedule of 2,336 weekly flights for 80 foreign airlines, marking a 9.4% increase from the previous winter.
This enhanced connectivity, effective from October 29, 2023, to March 30, 2024, is expected to offer a significant boost to travel options and economic opportunities.
Key Highlights of India’s Winter Schedule 2023-24
Let’s delve into the key points of this exciting development.
1. Increase in International Flights
The forthcoming Winter Schedule (WS) for 2023-24 is poised to deliver a substantial 10% upswing in international flight options compared to the previous winter. Travelers can expect a notable expansion in overseas travel opportunities, enhancing global connectivity.
2. Number of Foreign Airlines
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has given the green light to 80 foreign airlines, a notable increase from the 75 carriers that were operational in the last winter season. This surge in the number of foreign airlines is a testament to India’s growing prominence as a global aviation hub.
3. Seat Availability
The WS for the upcoming winter offers an impressive 5.9 lakh seats per week, signifying a noteworthy boost from the 5.5 lakh seats available during the previous winter. Travelers can anticipate improved convenience and accessibility, with a greater number of seats to choose from for their international journeys.
4. El Al’s Postponement
A noteworthy development is the postponement of El Al’s (Israel Airlines) plans to resume flights to India due to the ongoing regional situation. The decision underscores the impact of current geopolitical dynamics on the aviation industry.
5. Cities with International Flights
A consistent lineup of 23 Indian cities will maintain their status as hosts for international flights by foreign airlines. This list includes prominent metropolitan areas such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, ensuring travellers from across India have access to international routes.
6. Expansion of Destinations
India is set to have direct flights by foreign airlines to an expanded list of 50 countries, marking an increase from the 47 countries served in the previous winter. This diversification of destinations, ranging from Australia to the USA, offers Indian travellers an even wider array of global travel choices. These 50 are;
- Australia
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Belarus
- Bhutan
- Canada
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Hong Kong
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kuwait
- Kyrgyzstan
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Mauritius
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Netherlands
- Nigeria
- Oman
- Poland
- Qatar
- Russia
- Rwanda
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Sri Lanka
- Switzerland
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Turkey
- UAE
- UK
- USA
- Uzbekistan and
- Vietnam
7. New Airlines and Service Resumptions
Seven airlines, including Air Peace from Nigeria, Batik Air from Indonesia, and Belavia from Belarus, are gearing up to either launch new flights or resume services to India. Notable mentions among these airlines include ITA Airways from Italy and Nok Air from Thailand, while El Al’s resumption has been deferred due to regional concerns.
8. Service Suspensions
A few airlines, namely Air Austral from France, Salam Air from Oman, and Yemen Airways, have decided to temporarily suspend their operations in India during the upcoming winter schedule. These service suspensions reflect the impact of various factors, such as market conditions and regional dynamics, on airline operations.
Final Words
India’s Winter Schedule 2023-24 is poised to offer travellers a wealth of new opportunities and destinations. With increased international flights, the inclusion of additional foreign airlines, and expanded direct routes to 50 countries, India’s global connectivity is on an upward trajectory.
This development promises to boost the tourism industry, foster economic growth, and further solidify India’s position as a key player in the global aviation sector.
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