Delta Air Lines is charting a return to India, with plans to launch nonstop flights between Atlanta and Delhi. This move is part of a broader strategic partnership with IndiGo, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic, aiming to enhance connectivity between India, Europe, and North America.

Delta’s India Comeback: Atlanta to Delhi Nonstop

Delta used to operate a non-stop flight to India, specifically to Mumbai. This was launched after Jet Airways went under, and the collaboration of Jet with the Delta/Air France/KLM went with it. Subsequently, Delta shut down the non-stop operation due to the pandemic and then retired its Boeing 777 fleet.

The new route’s launch is contingent upon the delivery of Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, expected in 2026. These aircraft offer the necessary range and efficiency for such long-haul operations. This was not a part of the announcement Delta made, but Ed Bastian has mentioned in the past.

Strategic Partnership with IndiGo

Delta’s collaboration with IndiGo, India’s largest airline, is a significant component of its strategy to re-enter the Indian market. This partnership will allow Delta to leverage IndiGo’s extensive domestic network, facilitating seamless connections for passengers travelling beyond Delhi to various destinations across India.

Additionally, IndiGo’s agreements with Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic will enable broader connectivity, offering passengers access to a wide array of destinations across Europe and North America.

Implications for Travellers

For travellers, Delta’s return to India, eventually, will signify increased options for nonstop transatlantic flights, particularly benefiting those in the southeastern United States. The partnership with IndiGo ensures that passengers will have convenient onward connections within India, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Bottomline

Delta has revealed plans to return to India by launching a route from Atlanta to Delhi at the meeting to sign up with IndiGo. This announcement comes as part of a larger agreement with IndiGo and Delta’s TATL JV partners from SkyTeam.

We don’t yet know when the route will launch, but based on past comments from Delta’s CEO, it seems like the service will only start once the airline takes delivery of the Airbus A350-1000.

What do you make of Delta’s return to India?

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