07 Mar 2025
#2 March 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Air India Express Chooses Sabre's Network Planning Software
Sabre Corporation has signed a Network Planning & Optimization agreement with Air India Express, making the airline a milestone customer for its advanced planning tools. Air India Express will implement Schedule Manager and Slot Manager from Sabre's suite to enhance flight scheduling and optimise slot utilisation, ultimately maximising revenue and meeting passenger demand. Chief Commercial Officer Dr. Ankur Garg expressed confidence in Sabre’s technology, highlighting its role in supporting the airline’s rapid expansion, which now includes nearly 100 aircraft.
Air India Improves International Connectivity Via Delhi and Mumbai Hubs
Air India has enhanced its international network to offer faster and more seamless connections for passengers travelling between the UK, Europe, Australia, and South-East Asia via India. Connection times at its Delhi and Mumbai hubs have been reduced to around 2.5 hours, making Air India one of the most efficient choices for long-haul travel. As part of its new ‘Via’ campaign, the airline is positioning India as a world-class transit hub, leveraging its geographical advantage and modern airport infrastructure. Chief Commercial Officer Nipun Aggarwal highlighted Air India’s robust route network, offering a one-stop travel solution between the East and West.
IndiGo Announces Direct Flights from Mumbai to Seychelles
IndiGo has announced the launch of direct flights from Mumbai to Seychelles, with operations commencing on 22 March 2025. The airline will offer four weekly flights, strengthening connectivity to this popular holiday destination. With Seychelles becoming IndiGo’s 39th international destination, the airline continues its expansion to cater to Indian travellers. Head of Global Sales, Vinay Malhotra, expressed excitement about making Seychelles more accessible and affordable, anticipating that this route will be a game-changer for Indian tourists.
Acumen’s Take
On Air India Express’ Deal with Sabre
As airlines expand their networks, efficient scheduling and slot management become essential for profitability and operational reliability. Sabre’s Network Planning & Optimization tools will help Air India Express maximise aircraft utilisation, enhance passenger convenience, and increase revenue. At Acumen, we recognise the critical role of advanced digital planning solutions in managing complex airline networks, and this partnership reflects the industry’s growing reliance on technology for efficiency.
On Air India’s International Connectivity Enhancements
India’s strategic location between Europe, Australia, and South-East Asia makes it an ideal transit hub. Air India’s optimisation of flight schedules and its ‘Via’ campaign will enhance India’s role in global air travel. Reduced layover times will improve passenger experience, increase India’s hub competitiveness, and make Delhi and Mumbai key transit points in the international aviation market. Acumen views this as a significant step toward strengthening India’s global aviation presence.
On IndiGo’s New Mumbai-Seychelles Route
With international leisure travel on the rise, direct connectivity to high-demand holiday destinations like Seychelles is a smart strategic move. IndiGo’s expansion into its 39th international destination aligns with growing Indian outbound tourism trends. Acumen believes that increasing non-stop flights to premium destinations enhances accessibility while reinforcing IndiGo’s position as a dominant carrier in India’s short-haul international market.
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