SriLankan’s Middle East network spans Riyadh, Dammam, Dubai, Doha and Kuwait, offering passengers connections via Colombo between the Middle East and southern Indian cities, such as Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Thiruvananthapuram, Madurai and Cochin.

SriLankan Airlines Head of Commercial Dimuthu Tennakoon stated: “As an airline that has been connecting passengers to the Middle East for over 40 years, we are delighted to announce our full return to the region. 

“This milestone marks not only the restoration of convenient connectivity, but also the return of the dependable service and warm Sri Lankan hospitality that have made us a preferred carrier for travellers across South Asia.”

SriLankan Airlines Regional Manager India, Bangladesh and Nepal Fawzan Fareid added: “Our Middle East network has long been a vital part of our service to customers in South India. While the past few months presented significant challenges for our Middle East operations, we remained resilient by strengthening other markets and staying committed to serving our customers across India. As we restore our full Middle East network, we are excited to build on this momentum with renewed confidence and continue delivering the seamless connectivity, dependable service and warm SriLankan hospitality that our passengers value.”

With 90 weekly flights between India and Colombo, serving Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Madurai and Tiruchirappalli, SriLankan counts India as its largest market. 

SriLankan Airlines connects passengers to 130 destinations across 63 countries through its own services and codeshare partnerships, while operating direct services to 33 destinations worldwide. Its network spans Europe, Australia, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia and East Asia. 

The airline operates an all-Airbus fleet comprising A330-200/300 and A320/321 aircraft. 

(Source: SriLankan)

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The partnership enables passengers to benefit from a single-ticket itinerary combining Air India and Drukair flights, ensuring a seamless end-to-end travel experience. It offers coordinated baggage and passenger transfer through to the final destination, delivering a seamless travel experience via Air India’s hub at Delhi – Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Passengers will also benefit from competitive interline fares, providing enhanced flexibility, improved connectivity, and greater overall value.

The partnership enables Air India guests to travel seamlessly to Paro via Delhi from across Air India’s expanding international network. It also provides convenient onward connections within Bhutan, from Paro to Bumthang, Gelephu, and Yonphula.

With this partnership, Air India offers seamless connectivity to nearly all countries in the SAARC region through its own or partner network.

Reciprocally, Drukair passengers gain direct access via Delhi, Guwahati, and Kolkata to Air India’s extensive domestic network, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Kochi, as well as a wide range of major international destinations such as Paris Charles de Gaulle, Colombo, Newark, Frankfurt, New York (JFK), London (Heathrow), Melbourne, San Francisco, Sydney, Toronto Pearson, and Vancouver.

Air India Chief Commercial Officer, Nipun Aggarwal said: “Our partnership with Drukair reinforces our commitment to strengthening connectivity across the SAARC region, which we consider our extended home market. Bhutan is a valued part of this region, and we are happy to enable easy access to Bhutan for our guests and look forward to welcoming Drukair’s passengers onto Air India’s extensive domestic and global network.

Drukair Chief Executive Officer Tandi Wangchuk said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone for Drukair as we continue to strengthen our global connectivity and enhance the travel experience for our passengers. Through this interline partnership with Air India, our customers will benefit from seamless journeys, expanded access to key international markets, and improved connectivity across India and beyond.”

(Source: Air India)

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Following the impact of geopolitical uncertainty on summer travel plans to Europe, renewed interest is now emerging in experiential journeys to these destinations. 

Responding to this shift, Thomas Cook (India) Limited and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have curated a portfolio of Fall and Winter holidays across key international destinations, bringing together seasonal highlights, distinctive experiences and varied travel styles for the Indian traveller.

The Northern Lights continue to remain one of the season’s most compelling draws, with Finland, Norway, Sweden and Iceland offering ways to experience the Arctic. Beyond Aurora viewing, travellers can explore snow-covered landscapes through husky/reindeer sledging, snowmobile excursions and snowshoeing. Travellers are also choosing unique accommodations such as the famous glass-ceilinged igloo houses, snow-hotels, log cabins and Arctic tree houses.

Europe takes on a distinctive character in winter as its cities and towns transition into the festive season. France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the UK and the Czech Republic offer Christmas markets, illuminated streets, seasonal gastronomy and cultural celebrations. For travellers looking beyond the festivities, the Alps offer scenic rail journeys, mountain stays, winter sports, and panoramic landscapes. At the same time, distinctive alpine accommodation and local culinary experiences add another layer to the journey. Across Scandinavia, winter cruises and whale-watching experiences offer another immersive way to experience the season, combining dramatic fjords, Arctic landscapes and wildlife encounters.

North America adds another dimension to Fall and Winter travel, combining dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventure and vibrant festive experiences. Canada’s Rockies offer snow-covered mountain scenery alongside skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, wildlife encounters, gondola rides and scenic winter trails. At the same time, the USA brings together New York’s iconic holiday season with experiences ranging from festive light-ups and seasonal markets to mountain escapes, winter sports, scenic road trips and nature-led adventures.

For travellers who would rather leave the cold behind, Australia and New Zealand offer a completely different seasonal proposition, with spectacular New Year celebrations adding to the appeal. Australia brings together vibrant city celebrations, spectacular coastlines, wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures, while New Zealand offers mountains, lakes, fjords and nature-led experiences. Together, the destinations provide a compelling option for travellers seeking sunshine, adventure, the outdoors and memorable New Year experiences during the months September to January.

Across these destinations, Fall and Winter travel is evolving beyond sightseeing towards more immersive, season-led experiences. From Arctic adventures and festive Europe to North American winter landscapes and sun-filled celebrations in the Southern Hemisphere, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel are bringing together journeys that combine destination, season and experience.

Thomas Cook (India) Limited President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Rajeev Kale said: “Travel is increasingly being defined by the experience a destination can offer at a particular time of year. Fall and winter open up some of the world’s most compelling travel moments, from the Aurora across Arctic skies and snow-covered Alpine landscapes to Europe’s festive traditions and the outdoors of the Southern Hemisphere. At Thomas Cook India, we offer these diverse seasonal experiences to Indian travellers and bring deep expertise in curating journeys that go beyond conventional itineraries. We are seeing a clear shift towards holidays that are richer, more immersive and built around meaningful experiences, with travellers willing to explore beyond conventional winter destinations. This is reshaping the opportunity for the industry, as seasonal travel evolves from a destination choice into a more experience-led way of discovering the world.”

SOTC Travel Limited President and Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours, SD Nandakumar said: “The winter holiday is evolving from a standard itinerary into a carefully curated experience. Travellers are increasingly combining the core destination with experiences that add depth to the journey — whether that is a Northern Lights escape, a scenic rail journey, a unique stay, local gastronomy, wellness or a snow-filled adventure. What is particularly encouraging is the diversity of this demand: couples are seeking immersive, romantic escapes; families are combining festive celebrations with adventure; and younger travellers and groups are actively seeking experiences and destinations beyond the conventional winter circuit. This allows us to create more distinctive, experience-rich journeys that reflect how Indians want to travel today.”

(Source: Thomas Cook India)

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The new route will further strengthen IndiGo’s growing India-Thailand network and create a direct air bridge between two destinations deeply connected through centuries of shared Buddhist heritage. 

The service will also bolster international connectivity from Bihar, supporting tourism, cultural exchange, and economic development across the region. 

Customers can plan and book their travel through IndiGo’s official website, mobile app, or authorised travel partners.

The launch of the Gaya-Bangkok route further expands travel options between the two countries. The service will directly connect Gaya, home to Bodh Gaya, one of Buddhism’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, with Bangkok, Thailand’s capital and a country with deep Buddhist traditions. 

Bodh Gaya, home to the revered Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors from Thailand and around the world each year.

This new direct service will offer a convenient and efficient travel option for pilgrims, leisure travellers, and tourists from both destinations seeking to explore the other’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. It will also support the broader development of Bihar’s tourism ecosystem, benefiting local hospitality, transport, and ancillary sectors.

Thailand remains one of the most popular international destinations for Indian travellers. With over 140 weekly flights between India and Thailand, IndiGo continues to strengthen connectivity across this important corridor. IndiGo connects Bangkok from Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bhubaneswar; offers direct services to Phuket from Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata; and flies to Krabi from Delhi. 

The addition of Gaya further strengthens IndiGo’s presence in Thailand while expanding access to one of India’s most significant cultural and spiritual destinations.

Flight schedule Gaya-Bangkok, effective 26 October 2026

(Source: IndiGo).

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Organised annually by The Moodie Davitt Report, the FAB Awards are among the most prestigious global recognitions for airport food, beverage, lounge and hospitality excellence.

The “Airport Lounge Opening of the Year” category brought together some of the most innovative and luxurious airport spaces launched across major aviation hubs worldwide. 

Air India Chief Customer Experience Officer Rajesh Dogra said: “Receiving this global recognition for the Maharaja Lounge is a proud milestone for Air India. We sincerely thank our customers for their trust and loyalty, and our teams and partners whose commitment has helped bring this vision to life. As we continue our transformation journey, we remain focused on delivering world-class experiences that showcase the very best of Indian hospitality in the aviation industry.”

The Maharaja Lounge has been designed around a philosophy of thoughtful zoning, creating distinct spaces that cater to the diverse needs and moods of modern travellers. Spanning 16,000 sq. ft., the lounge seamlessly blends heritage-inspired warmth with contemporary elegance, offering guests the flexibility to work, dine, relax or unwind in dedicated environments tailored to their journey.

The lounge accommodates premium guests across a business section and an exclusive First Class zone. Standout spaces include The Aviators’ Bar, The Globetrotter’s Study, the Serenity Area, the Crystal Bar in the First Class section, and the Sleep Suites. 

The award-winning lounge in Delhi is part of Air India’s broader strategy to drive fleet modernisation, including the introduction of new Airbus A350s, new line-fit Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, and retrofitted narrowbody and widebody aircraft.

(Source: Air India)

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As select travel partners for the programme, under which DCT Abu Dhabi covers the full cost of UAE entry visas for eligible bookings, the companies will enable eligible customers booking leisure holiday packages with a minimum continuous three-night hotel stay in Abu Dhabi to avail of a complimentary UAE entry visa at no additional cost. 

The offer is applicable for eligible bookings made until 31 October 2026, for travel until 31 October 2026, and is subject to applicable terms and conditions.

The initiative reinforces the long-standing partnership between DCT Abu Dhabi, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, reflecting a shared commitment to creating greater value for Indian travellers. 

By combining destination-led initiatives with the companies’ extensive omnichannel reach and holiday expertise, the collaboration aims to drive awareness and encourage more Indian travellers to experience Abu Dhabi’s unique blend of cultural heritage, world-class attractions, family entertainment, adventure, luxury hospitality and immersive experiences.

As one of India’s largest source markets for international travel, the country continues to play a key role in Abu Dhabi’s tourism growth strategy. Through strategic collaborations with leading travel partners such as Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its engagement with the Indian market by making travel planning more seamless, accessible and rewarding.

Thomas Cook (India) Limited President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Rajeev Kale said: “Our long-standing partnership with Abu Dhabi has enabled us to curate enriching holiday experiences for Indian travellers consistently. 

“We are delighted to be among the select travel partners for Abu Dhabi’s Visa Subsidy Programme, which further enhances the value proposition for our customers. By offering a complimentary UAE entry visa  for eligible leisure holiday bookings, we are making it even more compelling for Indian travellers to explore Abu Dhabi’s diverse experiences—from iconic landmarks and cultural attractions to family entertainment, adventure and luxury.”

SOTC Travel, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, SD Nandakumar, commented: “Indian travellers today seek holidays that combine enriching experiences with exceptional value. Abu Dhabi continues to enjoy strong appeal across families, couples, young professionals and groups, thanks to its diverse tourism offerings and year-round attractions. We are delighted to partner with DCT Abu Dhabi on this initiative, enabling eligible leisure travellers to enjoy the added value of a complimentary UAE entry visa.

We look forward to inspiring more Indian travellers to choose Abu Dhabi for their next international holiday.”

(Source: Thomas Cook India)

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Air India has deployed its B777-300ER with upgraded cabin interiors on its four-weekly flights to Melbourne since 1 July. However, on 1 September 2026, the airline will increase frequencies to daily, an expansion that reflects Air India’s commitment to strengthening connectivity between India and Australia, 

Air India’s upgraded Boeing 777-300ER features eight first class suites, 40 fully flat business class beds, and 280 economy class seats, representing a substantial increase in premium capacity compared to the existing B787-8 on this route, which features 18 business class and 241 economy class seats.

A second round of flight increases will take place on 27 October 2026, when the airline increases frequencies from daily to 11 weekly, with the four additional flights operated by a Boeing 787-8.

Australia remains a key international market for Air India, with strong and growing demand for both business and leisure travel. 

The airline’s Delhi-Melbourne service also provides travellers with convenient, same-terminal connections via Delhi to destinations across Europe, including London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, Milan, and Zurich.

Flight schedule: 11 weekly

AI308 departs Delhi (DEL) at 0315 and arrives in Melbourne (MEL) at 2100. (B777-300ER. Daily)
AI309 departs Melbourne (MEL) at 0130 and arrives in Delhi (DEL) at 0850 (B777-300ER. Daily).

AI310 departs Delhi (DEL) at 1345 and arrives in Melbourne (MEL)  at 0730, plus a day. (B787-8. Four departures except Mon, Wed and Fri).
AI311 departs Melbourne (MEL) at 0915 and arrives in Delhi (DEL) at 1635. (B787-8. Four departures except Tue, Thu and Sat).

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This new service links two of India’s most influential economic centres: Ahmedabad, a city renowned for its role as a commercial, educational, and innovation hub; and Mundra, India’s largest private port.

Ahmedabad is not only the commercial capital of Gujarat but also a powerhouse in India’s broader economic story. The city’s mix of industry, finance, education, and culture has made it a magnet for businesses, students, and professionals from across the country. With a rapidly growing startup ecosystem and world-class infrastructure, Ahmedabad continues to set benchmarks for urban growth and economic dynamism.

Mundra, located on the Kutch coast, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Once a quiet coastal town, it is now home to India’s biggest private port, handling a significant share of the nation’s international cargo. Mundra’s port-driven growth has stimulated industrial development, attracted global investment, and created opportunities for thousands of workers and entrepreneurs in the region and beyond. The port’s strategic importance extends across India, linking producers and exporters in multiple states to global markets.

Star Air Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer Shilpa Bhatia said: “Until now, travelling between these centres required long road journeys or inconvenient, indirect flights. Star Air’s new direct service changes this paradigm, offering a fast, seamless, and comfortable travel option tailored to India’s modern business and travel needs.” 

Star Air will operate three times weekly, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with early morning departures from Ahmedabad and evening return flights from Mundra.

Tickets for the new Ahmedabad–Mundra flights are now available on the Star Air website and all online and authorised travel agency platforms.

Flight Schedule

(Source: Star Air)

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The outlet expands Thomas Cook India’s network to five locations in the city and 12 across Gujarat, strengthening access to its comprehensive portfolio of travel and holiday solutions.

Ahmedabad is a key travel market for Gujarat and the wider West India region, with travellers increasingly exploring new destinations and experiences through multiple short breaks, weekend getaways and public-holiday travel. The market also has a strong preference for group travel, regional departures and curated experiences tailored to local cultural and dietary preferences.

The new outlet will cater to families, couples, millennials & GenZ, business travellers and GenS (seniors), offering end-to-end solutions including domestic and international holidays, group tours, personalised holidays, cruises and travel insurance. 

Thomas Cook India’s AI-powered booking platform further enables customers to plan personalised vacations, check availability and make reservations seamlessly.

Ahmedabad-Gujarat travel trends

Year-round travel: Gujarati travellers are increasingly using public holidays and weekends for multiple short breaks and mini-cations beyond the traditional holiday season.

Strong preference for group travel: Gujarati-specific group tours remain popular, with travellers valuing Gujarati-speaking Tour Managers and vegetarian/Jain food preferences.

Gujarati-specific regional and festive tours: Departures such as Albelu Europe, Aneru Europe, and Adhbhut Asia are gaining popularity, offering curated experiences that cater to Gujarati language and cuisine preferences.

Growing spiritual tourism: Pilgrimage and spiritual travel continue to gain momentum, with Thomas Cook India strengthening its Spiritual Tourism portfolio to cater to this segment.

Distinctive experiences and destinations: Travellers are increasingly seeking differentiated experiences and exploring emerging destinations beyond conventional itineraries.

New connectivity-led opportunities: Improved air connectivity is opening up new outbound travel opportunities, with Sri Lanka emerging as an attractive option. Thomas Cook India has introduced special packages with direct flights to Sri Lanka ex-Ahmedabad, offering greater convenience to travellers.

(Source: Thomas Cook)

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The cooperation offers greater flexibility, enhanced connectivity, and more convenient travel options between Azerbaijan and India, as well as onward destinations through both airlines’ networks, while strengthening business, tourism, and cultural ties between the two countries.

The new codeshare partnership enables Air India to place its ‘AI’ designator code on Azerbaijan Airlines-operated flights between India and Baku, thus opening Baku as a new destination for Air India customers, a market currently not served by Air India’s own metal.

Under this codeshare, Air India’s ‘AI’ code will be applied to Azerbaijan Airlines daily flights operating between Delhi and Baku, and between Mumbai and Baku. Customers from Delhi, Mumbai, and beyond can now travel conveniently to Baku with an Air India ticket on an Air India-operated flight by Azerbaijan Airlines.

The codeshare agreement builds on an existing interline agreement between the two carriers, which allows customers of both airlines to travel seamlessly on a single itinerary that combines flights operated by both carriers. For instance, a passenger travelling from Bangkok can fly Air India to Delhi and, with one itinerary, seamlessly connect onward to Baku on an Azerbaijan Airlines service.

Air India Chief Commercial Officer, Nipun Aggarwal, said: “Through this codeshare, our customers travelling to Baku will enjoy convenience and reliability from booking their ticket to check-in and touchdown. This is part of a broader effort to keep strengthening connectivity between India and the rest of the world.”

Azerbaijan Airlines Chief Commercial Officer, Jamil Manizade said: “India is one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets and an increasingly important destination for both business and leisure travel. Our partnership with Air India is an important step in expanding Azerbaijan Airlines’ international connectivity through strategic partnerships.”

Since its privatisation in 2022, Air India has significantly expanded its global alliance network. Today, the airline maintains 26 codeshare partnerships and more than 120 interline agreements with leading carriers worldwide, providing Air India customers with seamless access to over 1,000 destinations.

(Source: Air India)

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