Air India and Virgin Australia have unveiled a groundbreaking codeshare partnership, set to transform travel between India and Australia. The agreement, announced today, allows Air India to place its ‘AI’ code on Virgin Australia flights, enabling seamless connections to 16 cities across Australia and New Zealand (Subject to regulatory approvals).
Starting February 18, 2025, Air India customers flying from Delhi to Melbourne or Sydney can effortlessly connect to destinations like Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, and Queenstown. The partnership ensures a hassle-free journey, with baggage checked through to the final destination.
Alistair Hartley, Virgin Australia’s Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating, “This partnership will encourage Indian travellers to explore more of Australia, thanks to seamless onward connections on our network.”
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Nipun Aggarwal, Air India’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the benefits for both the Indian diaspora and holidaymakers. “This partnership opens up new destinations, from the beaches of Gold Coast to the natural wonders of The Great Barrier Reef,” he said.
Air India currently operates 14 weekly flights to Australia, utilising Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft with premium Business and Economy Class cabins. Codeshare bookings will be available from February 11, 2025, marking a new era in India-Australia travel.