Air India Express enhances Ayodhya connectivity with direct flights to Bengaluru, Kolkata

Air India Express Ayodhya direct flights: Air India Express has unveiled plans to expand its operations in Ayodhya by introducing direct flights to Bengaluru and Kolkata, enhancing connectivity from January 17, 2024.

Inaugural Flights and Schedule

The airline's inaugural flights between Ayodhya and Delhi are scheduled for December 30, coinciding with the opening of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham. The Bengaluru-Ayodhya route will commence on January 17, 2024, offering convenient one-stop itineraries.

The Bengaluru-Ayodhya route's maiden flight is set to depart at 08:05, reaching Ayodhya at 10:35, with the return leg leaving Ayodhya at 15:40 and arriving in Bengaluru at 18:10. On the Ayodhya-Kolkata route, flights will operate from Ayodhya at 11:05, reaching Kolkata at 12:50. The return leg from Kolkata to Ayodhya will depart at 13:25 and land at Ayodhya at 15:10.

Air India Express's Commitment to Connectivity

Dr Ankur Garg, Chief Commercial Officer of Air India Express, expressed the airline's dedication to expanding connectivity throughout India, with Ayodhya being a key addition to its network. Bengaluru and Kolkata, as pivotal hubs, will serve as gateways to Ayodhya, facilitating pilgrims from South India and Eastern India.

Ayodhya joins Varanasi and Lucknow as the third airport in Uttar Pradesh within Air India Express's network. The airline has made history by initiating Varanasi-Sharjah flights, establishing the first international connection for Varanasi.

Prominent Routes and Service Enhancements

With a significant weekly schedule, the airline connects Ayodhya to Bengaluru and Sharjah. Additionally, Air India Express provides 60 weekly flights from Lucknow, linking the capital city to Dubai and major Indian cities.

Bengaluru, the largest domestic station in the Air India Express network, boasts 344 weekly flights to 22 destinations. The airline offers direct connectivity from Kolkata to six destinations, operating a total of 85 weekly flights.

Recent enhancements include the introduction of Vista VIP, a business class-like product, offering wider seats, increased legroom, gourmet hot meals, additional baggage allowance, and Xpress ahead priority boarding services. Air India Express continues to innovate its services, being the first airline to operate a direct flight from Surat to Dubai.

Future Operations and Competitor Initiatives

Following the inaugural flight from Delhi to Ayodhya on December 30, regular commercial operations for direct flights between Delhi and Ayodhya will commence from January 6, 2024. Tri-weekly flights connecting Ahmedabad and Ayodhya are also scheduled to start from January 11, 2024.

IndiGo, a leading carrier in India, has outlined plans for direct flights between Mumbai and Ayodhya, initiating from January 15, 2024. The airline aims to strengthen Ayodhya's air connectivity and cater to the growing demand.

Air India Express's strategic expansion in Ayodhya is poised to enhance regional connectivity, providing travellers with convenient and efficient air travel options to and from key cities like Bengaluru and Kolkata.