Air India announces new daily non-stop flights from Bengaluru to London Heathrow, replacing the current Gatwick route. Starting October 27, 2024, this service will increase flight frequency and add over 3,500 seats weekly with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Air India is expanding its international network with the launch of a new daily, non-stop service connecting Bengaluru and London Heathrow, set to begin on October 27, 2024.
This new route strengthens Air India’s presence at London Heathrow by connecting all three of its major hubs in India to the UK’s busiest airport.
Key Highlights
• New route: Bengaluru-London Heathrow
• Start date: October 27
• Frequency: Daily, non-stop
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
• Capacity increase: 3,584 seats per week
Air India Bengaluru-London Flight Schedule
Air India’s new daily non-stop flight between Bengaluru and London Heathrow follows the schedule below. Flight AI 133 departs Bengaluru at 14:20, arriving at London Heathrow at 19:30. The return flight, AI 132, leaves London Heathrow at 21:05, landing in Bengaluru the next day at 12:20.
Increased Frequency to London
With the introduction of this new flight, the existing Bengaluru-London Gatwick service will be replaced. The new route increases the frequency of flights from Bengaluru to London from five times a week to seven, ensuring more flexibility and convenience for travellers.
Operated by Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
The non-stop service will be operated by the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, a state-of-the-art aircraft known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The Dreamliner offers 18 flatbed seats in Business Class and 238 seats in Economy, catering to both premium and budget-conscious travellers.
This addition will add 3,584 seats per week for the Bengaluru-London route, significantly increasing capacity for both inbound and outbound passengers.
Air India’s Expanding London Operations
Air India currently operates 31 weekly flights to London Heathrow from Delhi and Mumbai. With this new route from Bengaluru, Air India will now serve all three of its Indian hubs with direct flights to Heathrow.
Additionally, the airline will continue to operate 12 weekly flights to London Gatwick from cities including Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Goa, and Kochi.
Vistara Merger and Future Changes
As part of its ongoing expansion and consolidation, Air India is set to merge with Vistara on November 12, 2024. Following the merger, flights previously operated by Vistara will use Air India’s flight code “AI2,” while maintaining the same service quality that Vistara passengers have come to expect.
Tata Group’s Growing Market Share
During the first nine months of 2024, Air India, under Tata Group management, transported 1.64 crore passengers, securing a 13.9% market share in India’s aviation sector. Meanwhile, Vistara recorded a 9.8% market share with 1.15 crore passengers.
AIX Connect, formerly known as AirAsia India, also saw significant passenger traffic, carrying 61.02 lakh passengers and holding a 5.1% market share, according to data from the DGCA.
Conclusion
With its new route to London Heathrow, Air India is further cementing its position as a key player in India’s international aviation market. The addition of more flights and the integration of Vistara’s services will offer passengers more travel options, improved connectivity, and a seamless flying experience.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/air-india-launches-daily-non-stop-flights-between-bengaluru-and-london-heathrow/
