UK-India FTA to boost economic ties; British Airways to increase weekly flights to India by winter
New Delhi, July 15
The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is expected to unlock new business opportunities and deepen bilateral economic engagement, prompting British Airways to expand its operations in the Indian market. The airline will increase its weekly flights to India from 63 to 70 during the winter schedule, reflecting growing confidence in the strengthening economic ties between the two countries, British Airways General Manager David Wright said.
The UK-India Free Trade Agreement came into effect on July 15.
Speaking to ANI, Wright highlighted the UK-India Free Trade Agreement as a "landmark agreement" that can bolster the economic ties between the two countries, unlocking business opportunities.
Noting India as one of the most important markets for the airlines, he said British Airways looks forward to opportunities to deepen its relationship with India.
He further stated that the airline is planning to increase its weekly flights to India by winter. "As the UK's flag carrier, we currently fly 63 times per week into India, and we are looking to grow that and will be up to 70 flights per week by this winter."
Wright said British Airways remains focused on connecting customers, businesses and communities across India with the UK and its wider global network, and looks forward to supporting the trade and investment opportunities expected to emerge from the free trade agreement.
"This trade agreement is going to affect the relations of the countries in economic terms also, but this will affect the people-to-people connection also, be it in terms of education, cultural exchanges and other things," he noted.
Highlighting the airline's long-standing presence, he noted that British Airways has been serving India for over a century and has witnessed the deep cultural ties between the two countries firsthand.
He added that aviation plays a vital role in facilitating trade, investment, tourism and education, while strengthening people-to-people connections. "So as a free trade agreement comes into force, I think it's very much just growing on the strong foundations that exist today," he noted.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While the flight expansion is welcome, I hope the FTA doesn't just benefit big corporations. Small Indian businesses in textiles and IT services need fair access to UK markets too. British Airways increasing flights is the easy part - let's see actual trade numbers in a year.
As someone who travels between London and Delhi frequently for work, this is music to my ears! The current 63 weekly flights already offer good options, but 70 will make scheduling much easier. British Airways has improved their India service a lot in recent years. Good to see the UK recognizing India's growing economic importance.
Bahut badhiya! 🎉 Finally, some concrete steps beyond just MOUs and agreements. The people-to-people connection aspect is crucial - my parents visited London last year and felt the cultural warmth. With more flights, maybe ticket prices will become reasonable too. Right now, BA charges a bomb during peak season!
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