Air France and KLM, two of Europe’s most distinguished airlines, have announced a significant increase in their flight schedules from India, marking an exciting development for Indian travellers. Starting from October 30, 2024, the airlines will operate up to 50 flights weekly to their European hubs, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Schiphol, from India’s key cities: Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. This represents a substantial increase from the 39 weekly flights operated during the summer season, catering to rising demand and providing enhanced connectivity for travellers from India.
Expanded Flight Schedule for Indian Passengers
The added flights are strategically scheduled to meet the demand of Indian travellers during the winter season, with new flight options and increased frequency on popular routes.
Air France Route Expansions
- Delhi to Paris: A second flight on this route will add 3 more weekly flights, enhancing frequency for travellers starting October 30, 2024.
- Mumbai to Paris: This route will also see the addition of a second daily flight, with an increase of 3 weekly flights from December 10, 2024, to February 17, 2025.
KLM Route Expansions
- Bengaluru to Amsterdam: Increasing the flight frequency to 6 weekly flights, up from the previous 4 during the summer season, starting October 30, 2024.
- Delhi to Amsterdam: A second daily flight is being introduced on this route as well, adding 3 more weekly flights from January 14, 2025, to March 3, 2025.
This expanded schedule offers Indian travellers increased flexibility in planning their European trips and additional options for transiting to destinations beyond Europe.
Enhanced Global Connectivity Through Dual Hubs
Air France and KLM operate from two of Europe’s most prominent international hubs—Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Schiphol. The airlines’ expansive networks provide travellers from India with seamless connectivity to over 300 destinations worldwide. Whether passengers are bound for North America, South America, Europe, Africa, or Asia, these dual hubs enable convenient transfers and a smoother travel experience, with carefully synchronized schedules that minimize layover times.
Modern Fleet for a Superior Travel Experience
To enhance the travel experience, Air France and KLM will deploy their modern fleet on India routes, including advanced aircraft such as Airbus A350s, Boeing 777s, and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. These aircraft are designed to offer enhanced comfort, reduced cabin noise, improved in-flight entertainment options, and a more spacious interior, aligning with the airline’s commitment to providing a premium travel experience.
Statement from Air France-KLM Country Manager
Claude Sarre, Country Manager for Air France-KLM in the Indian Sub-Continent, stated, “India is an important market for Air France – KLM and this development reflects our strong commitment towards our customers in India. By offering increased frequency and convenient connections, we aim to provide them with more flexibility and choice when planning their journeys to Europe and beyond, particularly during the peak winter season.”
Air France-KLM: A Global Leader in Aviation
Air France-KLM is recognized as one of the foremost airline groups globally, with a strong base in Europe and a vast network that spans the world. The group’s key areas of business include passenger transport, cargo transport, and aeronautical maintenance.
Extensive Network Across 320+ Destinations
Together with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Transavia, and strategic partners such as Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic, Air France-KLM provides its passengers access to a global network covering over 320 destinations worldwide. With major operational bases at Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, and Amsterdam Schiphol, the group offers unmatched connectivity and convenience.
Flying Blue: Loyalty Program for Frequent Travelers
The Flying Blue loyalty program is the official rewards program for Air France-KLM, boasting over 24 million members worldwide. This program offers frequent flyers a range of benefits, including the ability to earn and redeem miles across flights and services. Flying Blue members can also enjoy exclusive privileges, such as priority boarding, access to lounges, and additional baggage allowance, enhancing the overall travel experience for loyal customers.
SkyTeam Alliance and Transatlantic Joint Venture
As a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Air France-KLM collaborates with 19 other airlines to ensure a seamless travel experience for its passengers. This alliance enables customers to enjoy consistent service quality and greater flexibility in booking flights across an extensive network. Additionally, the transatlantic joint venture with Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic supports more than 340 daily flights, creating the largest transatlantic network and further reinforcing the airline’s connectivity between North America and Europe.
Commitment to Sustainability in Aviation
Air France-KLM has been an industry leader in sustainable development for over 20 years, championing environmentally responsible initiatives within the aviation sector. The group is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and supporting the transition towards more sustainable aviation through investments in fuel-efficient aircraft, exploring sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), and implementing eco-friendly operational practices.
Impact of the New Schedule on Indian Travelers
The increase in flight frequency from Air France and KLM not only enhances options for travellers heading to Europe but also opens up smoother connections for those flying onward to North and South America, the Middle East, Africa, and other parts of Asia. Indian travellers now have greater flexibility and convenience when booking their journeys during peak winter travel periods, making European destinations more accessible than ever.
For business travellers, the expanded schedule allows for quicker and more frequent options between key business hubs in India and Europe, enhancing productivity by reducing travel time. Similarly, leisure travellers can benefit from more travel choices and reduced layover times, improving the overall travel experience.
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