Air India will be introducing an additional daily direct, morning flight from London Heathrow to Delhi from the 1st of November 2015. With the introduction of this additional flight Air India will now have 5 daily flights from the UK to India i.e. 4 daily direct flights from LHR to India and 1 daily, direct flight from Birmingham to Delhi.
Asian Voice last week reported about the upcoming direct flight to Ahmedabad. While the flight carrier has not yet been announced formally, there are high chances it's going to be India's own national carrier- Air India, which completed its 83rd birthday on 15th October 2015 and is going from strength to strength.
Contemplating the excitement involved in a new kind of Indo-British partnership for the diaspora, Asian voice exclusively spoke to Ms Tara Naidu, Air India Regional Manager in the UK about the upcoming ventures.
Ms Naidu, who is a well known figure among the diaspora in Britain spoke about several unique points that still makes this company the most trusted airline to travel to India and beyond.
Air India has been serving Britain's diaspora for the last 68 years. With flights to 34 international destinations, its latest non stop flights to San Francisco from December, announced during Indian PM Narendra Modi's recent visit, has won the hearts of the Indians settled in the Silicon Valley.
But then why has Air India failed to continue with the direct flights between London Heathrow and Ahmedabad, Ms Naidu explained, "A direct flight does not only depend on the seats in the economy section. It's very important to have the front cabins i.e. the business and first class cabins filled up too. “However with our new Dreamliner aircrafts, with an advanced technology and fuel efficiency, things are turning around, and I think the Ahmedabad-London flights are a possibility not too far away." However, having said that she clarified, that she hasn't yet been notified about Air India direct flights between the two cities. "It's undoubtedly a huge market. There should be direct flights between the two cities. But there are several other constraints that need to be considered, such as frequency, crew etc. However, having said that, direct flights on this route may not be very far off. It's just a matter of time."
Air India which has brand new aircraft with flat beds in first and business class now is becoming popular for its leg space and comfortable wide seats even in economy class. Many people flying as far as Australia, love flying Air India. With a layover in India's capital New Delhi, where they are provided with a complimentary hotel stay, adds to the little pleasures of a comfortable trip.
Adding to this Ms Naidu said, “Air India is the only Indian airline that provides you with customs and immigration clearance at the final port, for many destinations in India. The passenger is provided with 2 boarding cards at the time of departure, and it's a smooth sail from there.”
Air India which currently operates from Terminal 4 of the Heathrow airport, will soon be upgraded to Terminal 2. Being a Star Alliance Member now Air India is providing benefits including sharing Frequent Flier miles with partner airlines globally. This has ensured that the number of passengers in the front as well as back cabins of the aircraft has increased considerably, making it a popular choice.
“We are a dependable brand, and flying Air India has many advantages. Not only is the food great, the crew is approachable, and they definitely speak your native Indian language.”
An exquisite experience, with a touch of warmth and homely comfort, Air India has started regaining popularity. We hope that the diaspora, which is eagerly waiting for their direct flight to Ahmedabad, will soon be privileged to be a part of this unique experience of flying directly to their home town in India like a 'Maharajah'.
