Air India expands its wings! Plans to introduce direct flights to Seattle, Los Angeles, Dallas

These proposed routes fall under the category of ultra-long-haul flights, typically exceeding 16 hours in duration. (PTI)

Air India is set to expand its ultra-long-haul flight services, primarily targeting US cities, as it enhances its aircraft fleet with additional A350s and B777s, sources reveal. The Tata Group-owned airline, amidst operational consolidation and the proposed merger of Vistara, aims to introduce direct flights from Indian cities to Seattle, Los Angeles, and Dallas, as per informed insiders.

Currently, Air India is the exclusive Indian carrier offering services to the US, with flights to Washington, New York, Newark, San Francisco, and Chicago.

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Air India’s ambitious expansion

Plans indicate that the airline is eyeing the winter schedule of 2024-25 for the commencement of flights to Seattle, Los Angeles, and Dallas, with A350s likely serving Seattle and B777s for Los Angeles and Dallas routes.

The A350 is expected to be utilised for flights to Seattle, while the B777 may be deployed for services to Los Angeles and Dallas. These proposed routes fall under the category of ultra-long-haul flights, typically exceeding 16 hours in duration.

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Air India to launch new flights to London

In addition to the US routes, the airline is considering operating all B777 flights to London Heathrow from both Delhi and Mumbai after the induction of two more planes into its fleet. Presently, B787 aircraft serve flights to London from Delhi and Mumbai.

According to a PTI report, sources indicate that the airline is poised to initiate flights to London Gatwick from Bengaluru next month using a Boeing Dreamliner.

An airline official acknowledged that while the launch of flights to new destinations is under consideration, it is contingent on various factors, including the availability of pilots and crew. Notably, Air India placed orders for 470 planes with Airbus and Boeing last year.