Delhi Air India Expands Flights to Manila London Jaisalmer and Navi Mumbai
Air India is preparing for its largest operational expansion in years, unveiling a robust plan for 2026 that strengthens both domestic and international connectivity. From new routes linking Delhi to Manila and Jaisalmer, to enhanced services between Ahmedabad and London Heathrow, the national carrier is positioning itself as a global competitor while aligning with India’s aviation growth strategy.
The airline’s decision to launch the Delhi–Manila service marks a milestone in India’s engagement with Southeast Asia. Operating five times a week from October 2025, the direct connection bridges India and the Philippines for the first time, creating a vital air corridor that supports tourism, business, and diplomatic ties. The route’s timing coincides with the Philippines’ visa-free policy for Indian travellers, adding further appeal to leisure passengers seeking new destinations across Asia.
Domestically, Air India is tapping into India’s cultural and tourism potential with the launch of the Delhi–Jaisalmer route. Introduced on 26 October 2025, the double-daily service using Airbus A320 aircraft aims to boost regional tourism to Rajasthan’s “Golden City.” The move reflects the airline’s renewed focus on Tier-2 destinations, in sync with the government’s UDAN scheme and efforts to make aviation more inclusive and regionally balanced.
On the international front, the new Ahmedabad–London Heathrow route underlines Air India’s growing influence in Europe. The direct link caters to a large Indian diaspora and business community, strengthening economic and social ties with the United Kingdom. Officials say the service is expected to see strong demand, especially from Gujarat’s outbound travellers and students.A significant highlight in 2026 will be Air India’s operations at the newly inaugurated Navi Mumbai International Airport. With plans to scale up to 55 daily departures by mid-2026 and 60 by the year-end, the carrier aims to make Navi Mumbai a vital hub for both domestic and international traffic.
The expansion will help decongest Mumbai Airport and improve accessibility for western India’s growing aviation market.To complement its network growth, Air India has embarked on a $400 million fleet retrofit programme to upgrade 67 aircraft, including Boeing 787-8 and Airbus A320neo models. The initiative focuses on improving cabin comfort, energy efficiency, and sustainability standardsbringing the fleet closer to global benchmarks. According to senior officials, the programme will reduce carbon emissions and enhance passenger experience across long-haul and short-haul routes.
However, some strategic readjustments are under way. The suspension of the Delhi–Washington D.C. route until late 2026 reflects operational realignment linked to aircraft retrofitting and route efficiency. Additionally, Air India Express has discontinued international services from Chennai and Goa as part of network optimisation efforts.Air India’s 2026 roadmap underscores a broader transformation—from fleet modernisation to smarter connectivity that blends commercial ambition with environmental responsibility. With sustainability embedded in its expansion, India’s flag carrier appears ready to redefine its global standing while promoting an eco-conscious future in aviation.
