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Air India to Expand US Operations with Three New Routes After a Decade

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After nearly a decade, Air India is poised to reestablish its presence in the American market with the introduction of new destinations in the United States.

According to reliable sources, the airline is preparing to launch direct flights to Los Angeles, California, and Dallas, Texas, tapping into the substantial Indian diaspora in these megacities. Currently, Air India operates more than 120 flights per week between India and the US, serving as a vital link for travelers on both sides.

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The airline’s expansion plans reflect a strategic move to cater to the high demand for direct connections from the diaspora market. “Plans are being prepared to expand our services to LA and Dallas. There is a large Indian diaspora in the vicinity of these two megacities and no direct flight connections from there to India,” sources told Financial Express.

The anticipated launch of these new routes is slated for before the end of 2024. Air India plans to deploy its fleet of Boeing 777s to service these destinations, ensuring passengers experience the airline’s renowned hospitality and efficient service.

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Based on research and Cirium data, these new routes will become the third and fourth longest non-stop flights from India, following the Mumbai (BOM)-San Francisco (SFO) and Bengaluru (BLR)-SFO routes.

Further enhancing its long-haul capabilities, Air India eventually plans to introduce its Airbus A350s for flights to continental North America. Initially, the A350-900 will replace the Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner on the Delhi-London Heathrow route starting September 1.

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In addition to its, Air India is set to commence non-stop services between Bengaluru and London Gatwick (LGW) next month. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring 18 business class and 238 economy seats, will operate this route, offering passengers a comfortable and direct connection between these two dynamic cities.

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Air India’s US Service Takes a Hit with 60 Flight Cancellations This Peak Season

Air India’s US Service Takes a Hit with 60 Flight Cancellations This Peak Season

Air India, owned by the Tata Group, has announced the cancellation of around 60 US-bound flights scheduled for the busy travel months of November and December.

Traditionally, airfares between India and the US climb significantly during this period, and these cancellations are anticipated to push prices even higher, impacting both non-stop and connecting routes.

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The affected flights air india new routes include those from Delhi to Washington, San Francisco, Chicago, and New York, along with flights from Mumbai to New York. Currently, Air India remains the only Indian airline offering direct services to the US.

The airline attributed the cancellations to delays in returning several aircraft from intensive maintenance, alongside supply chain issues that have temporarily reduced its operational fleet.

An Air India spokesperson confirmed that the airline has had to cancel a “small number” of flights due to delays from its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider.

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Additionally, some wide-body aircraft remain grounded due to technical issues, exacerbating the shortage of available aircraft.

The spokesperson added, “Due to the delayed return of some aircraft from heavy maintenance and supply chain constraints resulting in a temporary reduction in operating fleet, Air India regrets that a small number of flights have been cancelled between now and December end.”

Air India has assured affected passengers of a full refund, the option to reschedule for another date, or rebooking on nearby flights operated by the air india group, while expressing its apologies for the inconvenience caused by factors beyond its control.

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