ATLANTA- Delta Air Lines (DL) plans to resume flights to India within the next few years, according to CEO Ed Bastian.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion with Minneapolis business leaders, Bastian revealed the airline’s strategy to expand its long-haul routes using new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.
Delta India Flights
The airline discontinued its Mumbai (BOM) service during the pandemic, leaving a gap in its Indian market presence. Bastian emphasized Delta’s strong desire to serve India directly, stating, “We really want to serve that market directly.”
Delta’s expansion plans extend beyond India, with potential new routes to Saudi Arabia and other destinations, Thrifty Traveler reported. The A350-1000’s long-range capabilities will enable these ambitious flight paths, bridging vast distances between the United States and these markets.
Geopolitical issues have previously hindered Delta’s efforts to relaunch Indian services. However, the arrival of the A350-1000 aircraft in Delta’s fleet promises to overcome these challenges, offering the necessary range for nonstop flights to India.
Bastian’s comments indicate a strategic shift for Delta, positioning the airline to compete more effectively in the lucrative long-haul market. The move aligns with the growing demand for direct international travel and Delta’s aim to strengthen its global network.
Flight Resumption in Two Years
Delta Air Lines plans to resume flights to India within two years, leveraging new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. CEO Ed Bastian announced this strategy during a Minneapolis business roundtable, signaling Delta’s intent to reclaim its position in the Indian market after pandemic-related service cuts.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has complicated flight paths for Western carriers, closing Russian airspace and forcing longer routes. This restriction particularly impacts US-India connections, where Russian airspace plays a crucial role. While American Airlines operates flights to New Delhi, the circuitous route presents operational challenges.
Delta’s current A350-900 fleet lacks the range for efficient US-India flights under these constraints, necessitating passenger or cargo capacity reductions. In contrast, Indian airlines like Air India maintain Russian airspace access, gaining competitive advantages in fuel efficiency and travel time.
The acquisition of A350-1000 aircraft will resolve Delta’s range limitations, enabling full-capacity flights on extended routes. This fleet upgrade positions Delta to compete effectively with carriers currently benefiting from shorter flight paths.
Delta is strategically forming partnerships to support its expansion plans. The airline has already secured a deal with Saudi Arabia’s upcoming Riyadh Air (RX), aiming to enhance network connectivity.
Potential Partnership with IndiGo
For the Indian market, Delta intends to partner with IndiGo (6E), India’s largest airline, with an announcement expected soon.
The carrier’s partnership strategy extends beyond new markets. Despite regulatory challenges, Delta’s joint venture with Aeromexico remains active.
Peter Carter, Delta’s executive vice president for external affairs, expressed optimism about the partnership’s future, contrary to earlier expectations of termination.
Delta Air Lines has undergone a significant transformation in its fleet composition over the past years. The airline, which once operated an exclusively Boeing fleet, now predominantly flies Airbus aircraft.
This shift began with Delta’s acquisition of Northwest Airlines, which introduced Airbus planes into Delta’s operations.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.
Delta Likely to Launch New Flights from Salt Lake City to Seoul
The post Delta Eyes India Flights with its New Airbus A350-1000 appeared first on Aviation A2Z.