Akasa Air has launched daily direct flights between Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone in its international expansion. The inaugural flight from Bengaluru took off on March 1, 2025, followed by Ahmedabad’s first flight on March 2, 2025. With this expansion, Akasa Air strengthens its commitment to enhancing global connectivity, catering to both business and leisure travelers between India and the UAE.
These new routes add to Akasa Air’s existing daily Mumbai-Abu Dhabi service, increasing its total weekly flights to the UAE capital to 21. The airline’s entry into the Abu Dhabi sector aligns with its broader strategy of becoming a key player in India’s international aviation market. The UAE, home to a vast Indian expatriate community and a major business hub, presents a lucrative opportunity for enhanced air connectivity.
Enhancing International Travel Options
With the addition of Abu Dhabi to its network, Akasa Air is positioning itself as a viable alternative to established international carriers, offering affordable fares, seamless connectivity, and a modern fleet. The new routes are expected to benefit Indian travelers, including professionals, tourists, and the Indian diaspora, by providing more options for direct travel.
This expansion also comes at a time when demand for international air travel is on the rise, particularly between India and the UAE. The airline’s competitive pricing and increasing global footprint reflect its commitment to making international travel more accessible.
Strategic Partnership with Etihad Airways
In December 2024, Akasa Air signed a codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways, allowing passengers to book seamless onward connections via Abu Dhabi to various global destinations. This partnership significantly enhances Akasa Air’s reach beyond direct flights, providing its customers with greater flexibility and more travel options.
Neelu Khatri, Co-Founder and Senior VP of International Operations at Akasa Air, expressed confidence in the airline’s international growth, stating, “These new routes will strengthen India-UAE ties while ensuring passengers experience world-class service. Our partnership with Etihad Airways further enhances connectivity and travel convenience.”
Expanding Horizons for Indian Travelers
The launch of these flights from Bengaluru and Ahmedabad marks a significant step forward for Akasa Air’s international operations. The airline, which has rapidly expanded its domestic network, is now focusing on scaling its global presence to key international destinations.
As India’s aviation sector continues to grow, Akasa Air’s aggressive expansion strategy signals its ambition to become a dominant player in both domestic and international markets. With more international routes likely to be added in the future, travelers can expect greater connectivity and affordable travel options.