United Airlines has been granted permission to perform charter flights from India this month. Additionally, the Chicago-based carrier’s request to conduct a regular service from the county is also under consideration.
Back in action
Livemint reports that Indian authorities have approved the operator’s request to conduct charter flights from Delhi to Newark. However, with India still having strict international travel restrictions in place, there will be no passengers flying in on the flights from the United States hub.
Nonetheless, customers can already book for flights departing the capital of India on 10th, 12th, and 15th July. Tickets for these trips cost approximately ₹57,000 ($763).
In addition to these charter flights, United also wants to perform regular operations from the South Asian nation. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and other authorities are reviewing the request for a scheduled service.
A word from United
Simple Flying reached out to United for comment on these operations. A spokesperson said that upon government approval, the firm will restart daily service between Delhi and its hubs of San Francisco and Newark. These flights are part of a broader plan to expand its network this summer.
The representative for the airline added the below:
”We are operating three repatriation flights from Delhi to Newark on the 10th, 12th and 15th, and operating them consistent with the current Indian restrictions on international flights departing India. Customers can purchase tickets through our website united.com or United app.”
Building connections
The operator has been ramping up its presence in India over the last year. In December 2019, it started performing its new route between San Francisco and Delhi.
During normal climates, this service is daily during the winter and flies three times a week during the summer months. With this launch, the company highlighted that it is opening up new opportunities for both business and leisure travelers alike.
Moreover, in February, the airline announced a codeshare agreement with Vistara. This allows United passengers to book on 68 Vistara-operated flights to 26 Indian destinations.
With Vistara breaking ground in India as a major player, this move will undoubtedly strengthen United’s presence within the country. After there is a relaxation in restrictions, both airlines will be looking to continue their rise across the nation.
Altogether, United is finding ways to operate in India despite the restrictions in place. Once the country opens up its borders to general international passengers, the airline could have an edge in the market thanks to its determination during the downtime.
What are your thoughts on United Airlines’ plans in India? Do you think that they will get approval for regular flights to the country? Let us know what you think of these operations in the comment section.