Qantas, Australia’s national carrier, has exciting news for travelers between Bengaluru and Sydney. In response to robust demand during the peak holiday season, the airline has announced plans to ramp up its services, significantly enhancing connectivity between the two vibrant cities.

Starting from mid-December 2024 and continuing through late March 2025, Qantas will increase its flights from Bengaluru to Sydney, transitioning from five flights a week to a daily service.

This expansion translates to over 12,000 additional seats being made available between the two destinations over the span of four months, according to a statement released by Qantas. These newly added flights complement Qantas’ existing services between Delhi and Melbourne, which currently operate three days a week.

Travelers can expect top-notch service aboard Qantas flights, which are operated with the airline’s fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft. These planes feature 27 Business Class suites configured in a spacious 1-2-1 layout, ensuring direct aisle access for every passenger. Moreover, each suite is equipped to convert into a comfortable lie-flat bed, enhancing the overall travel experience.

In line with its commitment to enhancing passenger comfort, Qantas recently announced plans to accelerate the rollout of ‘fast and free’ Wi-Fi across its international fleet, including the A330 aircraft servicing routes between India and Australia.

This initiative aims to provide passengers with a seamless connectivity experience, ensuring that every traveler can enjoy a fast and consistent internet connection while onboard.

Commenting on the expansion of services, Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace expressed enthusiasm about meeting the growing demand for travel between India and Australia. He highlighted the importance of these additional flights in facilitating travel during the summer season, enabling families and friends to reconnect over the holiday period.

Emirates has unveiled the initial lineup of destinations set to welcome its A350 aircraft, slated to commence service in September 2024.

With a total of 10 new A350s anticipated to integrate into the Emirates fleet by March 31, 2025, the airline is poised to introduce its latest aircraft type to 9 destinations in the near future, presenting passengers with its newest signature cabin offerings.

These inaugural 10 Emirates A350 aircraft will feature three distinct cabin classes, including 32 next-generation Business Class seats, 21 seats in Premium Economy, and 259 generously spaced Economy Class seats. Primarily designated for short to medium-haul routes within the Emirates network, the A350’s debut flight will be to Bahrain, marking a significant milestone for the airline.

As the Emirates A350s embark on their maiden voyages, travelers will have enhanced opportunities to experience the acclaimed Premium Economy product and the innovative next-generation Business Class cabins, particularly on routes spanning the Middle East, GCC, West Asia, and Europe.

In the Middle East/GCC:

• The A350 will commence service to Bahrain on the daily EK839/840 route starting September 15, with plans to gradually expand frequency to encompass two Bahrain services, the second of which will debut on November 1.
• Kuwait will witness the arrival of the first Emirates A350 on the daily EK853/854 service beginning September 16.
• Muscat’s daily EK866/867 route will transition to A350 operation from December 1.

In West Asia:

• Mumbai’s EK502/503 service will feature the Emirates A350 starting October 27.
• Ahmedabad’s daily EK538/539 flight will be serviced by the A350 from October 27.
• The fourth daily service to Colombo, EK654/655, will be operated by the A350 commencing January 1, 2025.

In Europe:

• Lyon will enjoy daily service with the Emirates A350 starting December 1.
• Bologna will be served by the A350 from December 1.
• Edinburgh is set to rejoin the Emirates network on November 4, operated by the A350, with additional details forthcoming.

Bookings for Emirates flights to A350 destinations are now open and can be made through emirates.com, the Emirates App, or authorized travel agents.

After a prolonged absence, Air India is set to make a comeback at Zurich Airport with the launch of its non-stop service between Delhi and Zurich.

This move not only marks the airline’s reentry into Switzerland but also expands its presence in mainland Europe to seven cities, reaffirming its commitment to global connectivity. According to an official press release, Air India will deploy its two-class configured Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft for the Delhi-Zurich route.

Operating four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, the flights aim to cater to both business and leisure travelers. The modern Boeing 787-8, equipped with 256 seats, promises a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers.

Flight schedules have been strategically designed to accommodate diverse travel needs. Departing from Zurich at 8:50 pm, the aircraft arrives in New Delhi at 08:05 am the following day, facilitating convenient connections for travelers. Conversely, flights depart from New Delhi at 2:05 pm, landing in Zurich at 7:15 pm, offering seamless travel options for both inbound and outbound passengers.

Air India’s return to Zurich comes after a hiatus of nearly three decades since its last scheduled services to the Swiss city in 1997. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, expressed enthusiasm about the new route, highlighting its significance in strengthening bilateral ties between India and Switzerland.

Wilson emphasized the robust economic relationship between the two countries, with numerous Swiss companies operating in India, Indian companies in Switzerland, and a thriving Indian diaspora.

It’s worth noting that Air India‘s entry into Switzerland complements the existing connectivity provided by Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), the home carrier, and Star Alliance partner. SWISS already offers daily flights connecting New Delhi with Zurich, further enhancing travel options between the two nations.