The demand for nonstop international flights among Indian travelers is on the rise, according to a report by aviation consultancy firm OAG. Despite a decrease in overall international air traffic in India last year, the number of passengers opting for direct flights increased by 2 million. This shift is attributed to increased international flight options by Indian carriers such as IndiGo and Air India, as well as the introduction of new Indian carrier Akasa. More international airlines operating in the Indian market have also contributed to increased direct connectivity and options for travelers.
Leading Indian carrier IndiGo has announced plans to offer nonstop connectivity from major Indian airports to global destinations. Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has emphasized the benefits of direct flights, highlighting the convenience and time-saving aspects of nonstop travel. Additionally, the Indian Tourism Ministry sees more direct flights between India and the U.S. as a way to make the market more cost competitive and convenient for travelers. A report by CRISIL predicts that Indian airlines will handle half of the country’s international passenger traffic by fiscal year 2027-28.
Australia has introduced a ballot system for nationals of three countries, including India, applying for the Work and Holiday Visa program for the 2024-25 year. The visa, meant for individuals aged 18 to 30, allows them to live and work in Australia for a year, with the option to renew it twice if eligibility criteria are met. This new system aims to manage high demand from these countries and will randomly select applicants for the visa process, without impacting current or previous visa holders.
EaseMyTrip, an online travel agency, has entered the medical tourism segment by acquiring stakes in Pflege Home Healthcare and Rollins International. This move aims to meet the growing demand for quality healthcare services for travelers seeking wellness and medical solutions. The medical tourism industry in India is projected to grow significantly, with an estimated value of $10.4 billion in 2024, expected to increase to nearly $51 billion by 2034. Air India has started daily direct flights between Delhi and Kuala Lumpur, marking its sixth destination in Southeast Asia, following an increase in Indian tourists visiting Malaysia.
The Indian railway ministry is working on developing a superapp to streamline various railway-related services, allowing users to book tickets, check PNR status, and track trains. Ground transport, including rails and buses, plays a significant role in the online travel market in India, with rail and intercity bus categories projected to grow at a rate of 23% annually. South African Tourism has launched a campaign to attract 100,000 Indian travelers by the end of the year, focusing on Tier-2 and Tier-3 regions in the country. South Africa aims to promote itself as a leisure and MICE destination to Indian travelers to meet its tourism targets, as India is among the top three focus markets for the country.
