Air India Express made history by inaugurating the first direct flight between Surat and Dubai, marking a significant milestone for the airline and the inaugurated international terminal at Surat Airport.
In a landmark moment coinciding with the inauguration of Surat Airport’s new international terminal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Air India Express commenced direct flights between Surat and Dubai, becoming the inaugural carrier to establish this crucial link. The maiden flight, carrying 171 passengers, landed at Dubai International Airport on Sunday.
Airline’s Commitment to Surat’s Growth:
Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, expressed the airline’s dedication to fueling Surat’s growth story through this historic flight. He emphasized the airline’s commitment to expanding its network and connecting the “City of Diamonds” to the “City of Gold.”
Flight Details and Expansion Plans:
Air India Express will operate four weekly flights on the Surat-Dubai route, significantly boosting the region’s connectivity. The airline exclusively facilitates international flights from Surat, operating five weekly flights to Sharjah.
Singh revealed plans for increased capacity to the Gulf region, including the UAE, and enhanced connectivity for travelers from Tier 2 and 3 cities across India.
The airline aims to bolster services to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE while focusing on providing improved connectivity within India for Gulf travelers.
Significance of India-Dubai Air Corridor:
The India-Dubai air corridor is one of the busiest routes, given the substantial Indian diaspora in the UAE, accounting for over one-third of the population.
Dubai’s popularity as a prime destination for Indian tourists further underscores the importance of this air corridor.
Airline’s UAE Network:
Air India Express boasts a robust network in the UAE, with 80 weekly flights to Dubai (DXB), 77 to Sharjah, and 31 to Abu Dhabi.
The airline also serves other destinations in the UAE, including Al Ain with 2 flights per week and Ras Al Khaimah with 5 weekly flights, solidifying its strong presence in the region.
