Air India has announced the commencement of direct flights between Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru and London Gatwick Airport, starting August 18. This strategic expansion makes Bengaluru the fifth Indian city with a direct air link to the UK’s second-largest airport, marking another milestone in Air India’s expansion in the United Kingdom.
The inauguration of this route is anticipated to bolster the thriving economic and cultural ties between India and the UK. Air India will deploy the Boeing 787 Dreamliner on this route, equipped with 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 seats in Economy Class, ensuring a comfortable journey across the skies.
Presently, Air India operates flights to London Gatwick from four other Indian cities: Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Goa, and Kochi. The airline also maintains robust operations at London Heathrow, offering 31 weekly flights, and at Birmingham with six weekly flights.
Founded by JRD Tata, Air India has been a significant player in Indian aviation since its inaugural flight on October 15, 1932. Over the decades, it has established an extensive network, connecting various global destinations including the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and the Gulf. In 2022, Air India returned to the Tata fold after nearly seven decades as a state-owned enterprise, together with its subsidiary, Air India Express. This transition is part of ongoing efforts to enhance service quality and operational efficiency, reflecting the Tata group’s commitment to revitalizing its aviation assets.