Air India Express Expands Services Connecting Ahmedabad and Chandigarh with Bengaluru

Air India Express Expands Domestic Connectivity to Bengaluru

Direct flights linking Ahmedabad and Chandigarh to Bengaluru have recently been launched by Air India Express, enhancing travel options to one of India’s main technology and business hubs. Additionally, services from Dehradun to Bengaluru are set to commence from September 15. Chandigarh will now enjoy twice-daily flights, while Ahmedabad’s service to Bengaluru will increase to twice daily starting September 16.

Bengaluru stands as Air India Express’s largest domestic hub, with widened access facilitating both business travelers and leisure seekers. This expansion broadens the airline’s reach and creates new opportunities for seamless one-stop connections across the country and to select international destinations.

Details of New Flight Operations

The first flight from Chandigarh to Bengaluru took off at 16:40 and arrived at 19:40, featuring a Boeing aircraft with a special livery inspired by Punjab’s traditional Phulkari textile design. Earlier that day, the inaugural Ahmedabad–Bengaluru flight departed at 11:00. A ceremonial event celebrated the Chandigarh launch, honoring the first guest with a unique boarding pass to mark the milestone.

Air India Express offers a distinct travel experience, including the affordability of a cabin-bag-only fare option called “Xpress Lite," comfortable seating, hot meals, and an artistic presentation through its “Tales of India” aircraft liveries—which showcase over 50 designs celebrating India’s rich artistic heritage.

Network and Connectivity Enhancements

These new routes enhance the airline’s strategic hub-and-spoke model centered on Bengaluru. Passengers flying from Ahmedabad gain access to 26 domestic and 3 international destinations with convenient one-stop connections. Those departing Chandigarh have increased access to 22 domestic routes and direct links to Kathmandu.

Bengaluru continues to be a busy focal point, managing more than 405 weekly flights to 34 domestic and 3 key international cities, strengthening its role as a pivotal gateway for both business and leisure travel.

Historical Context: Air Travel Growth in India’s Tier II and Metro Cities

India’s growing domestic aviation sector reflects the country's expanding middle class and increasing economic activity, particularly in tier II cities and state capitals such as Ahmedabad and Chandigarh. These cities have witnessed rapid development, with rising disposable incomes fueling greater demand for air travel. The rise of airlines like Air India Express has helped democratize access to affordable, comfortable flights connecting emerging urban centers to major metros.

Since the early 2000s, aviation players have targeted secondary cities, recognizing their potential as significant sources of domestic tourism and business travel. For example, Chandigarh, planned as a modern city post-independence and serving as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, has mature infrastructure and an increasing appetite for enhanced connectivity. Ahmedabad, historically a commercial textile hub with a large population, also embodies dynamic economic growth fostering outbound travel.

In this context, the new Air India Express routes align with broader trends emphasizing more inclusive connectivity, diminishing gaps between India’s growing urban centers and established metropolitan hubs.

Key Geographical and Cultural Highlights

The Role of Chandigarh in Regional Development

Chandigarh, designed by architect Le Corbusier after India’s independence, is more than just a transport node. It represents modern urban planning and cultural integration in northern India. Enhanced air services not only facilitate travel but also support economic growth, educational exchanges, and tourism, thus reinforcing Chandigarh’s unique position as a regional capital with strategic importance.

Ahmedabad’s Growing Connectivity Importance

Ahmedabad has transformed, expanding beyond its historic textile industry to become a multifaceted economic center. Increasing flight frequency to Bengaluru, a major technology and business center, reflects local demand for greater mobility and opportunities in knowledge economy sectors. This improved air access helps connect entrepreneurs, professionals, and tourists alike.

Looking Ahead: Implications for Tourism and Travel

The expansion of air routes to Bengaluru from Ahmedabad and Chandigarh is expected to stimulate new travel flows for both business and leisure. Bengaluru itself sits near important lakes, cultural sites, and growing marina developments, making it a gateway for tourists exploring southern India.

As connectivity improves, regional tourism could see a boost from visitors arriving for festivals, conferences, and seaside activities in nearby destinations. Access to the city by air supports increased demand for boat charters, yachting, and maritime recreation along Karnataka’s coastal belt and the Arabian Sea. Visitors might combine city stays with excursions to beaches or lakes, enhancing their experience.

Forecast: The Role of Air Connectivity in Domestic Tourism Growth

• Increased flight options reduce travel time and costs, fostering more frequent trips between cities.
• Business travelers benefit from efficient scheduling and ties to global markets via Bengaluru’s international connections.
• Leisure tourists gain easier access to cultural events, nature spots, and maritime opportunities from these regional gateways.
• Enhanced regional accessibility encourages investment in hospitality, transport infrastructure, and recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Summary and Conclusion

Air India Express’s introduction of direct flights between Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru marks a significant step in enhancing domestic air travel connectivity. This development aligns with India’s broader trend of fostering strong links between tier II cities and major economic hubs, boosting business and leisure travel.

The increased frequency of flights and new routes through Bengaluru strengthen its role as a central hub, supporting more one-stop connections across the country and beyond, including international destinations. Such connectivity is essential not just for commerce, but also for expanding tourism experiences in regions rich with cultural heritage, urban sophistication, and natural attractions.

For travelers interested in exploring India’s waterside getaways, urban destinations, and vibrant boating culture, seamless air connectivity coupled with opportunities to rent yachts and boats can offer uniquely rich experiences. Services like GetBoat.com provide access to a variety of charter and rental options tailored to fit different tastes and budgets, perfectly complementing air travel routes that open up new horizons for adventure and relaxation along India’s coastal and lake destinations.