The Slow Take-Off Explained
When an airline announces a new international route, passengers often envision daily flights at convenient times. However, the initial phase is usually more conservative. New routes often begin with just two or three flights per week, sometimes at less
popular hours, like late at night or early in the morning. This cautious approach is a deliberate strategy. For passengers, it can mean less flexibility and the need to plan travel more carefully. A mid-week-only flight might not suit business travellers on a tight schedule or families planning a weekend getaway. This initial period is a test for both the airline and the airport.
The Airline's Calculation
Airlines are businesses, and launching a new international route is a major financial gamble. Before committing an expensive aircraft and crew to a daily schedule, they need to test the market. This involves analysing passenger demand, competition, and operational costs like fuel and landing fees. Starting with limited frequencies allows them to gauge real-world demand without the risk of flying half-empty planes. This strategy, known as route development, is a standard industry practice. Airlines use sophisticated data models to forecast profitability but nothing beats actual booking numbers. If a route with a few flights per week proves popular and profitable, the airline will gradually increase the frequency. If not, they can pull out with minimal losses.
Indore's International Push
Indore's Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport is the busiest in central India and has long held international ambitions. However, sustaining international operations has been a challenge. For instance, the city's previous direct connection to Sharjah was suspended for about four months. Recently, a new service to Abu Dhabi was announced, scheduled to start on July 15, 2026, which marks the return of international flights. This is a positive step, but it also highlights the typical pattern. Airlines are testing the waters. For Indore to secure more frequent and diverse international routes, it must consistently demonstrate high passenger volumes for these initial services. Issues like lengthy customs procedures, which have previously discouraged travellers, also need to be streamlined to make direct flights more attractive than connecting through major hubs like Mumbai or Delhi.
Navi Mumbai: A Brand New Beginning
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is a different story. As a brand-new airport designed to ease the pressure on Mumbai's congested main airport, it represents a massive opportunity. International passenger and cargo operations are expected to begin around July 15, 2026. The first international service will be an Air India Express flight to Abu Dhabi, starting with just two flights a week before increasing to three. The initial focus will be on shorter routes to Gulf countries, which serve a large number of workers and families in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. For a new airport, the challenge is not just attracting passengers but building an entire operational ecosystem from the ground up, securing regulatory approvals, and coordinating with multiple airlines. The gradual ramp-up is essential to ensure smooth operations as the airport finds its footing.
The Path to More Flights
So, what will it take for services to expand? The primary driver is consistent demand. As more passengers book these initial flights, airlines gain the confidence to add more services. For airports like Indore and Navi Mumbai, marketing to both travellers and airlines is key, demonstrating the economic potential of their catchment areas. Another critical factor is bilateral air service agreements between India and other countries. These treaties dictate how many flights can operate between the two nations, and often, the quota is focused on major metro hubs. Earmarking more flight rights for non-metro and new airports is a policy decision that could significantly boost direct international connectivity. As these airports prove their viability, the case for receiving a larger share of these rights becomes stronger, paving the way for a more robust international schedule.
