12 Mar 2026
#2 March 2026: India Aviation Newsletter
Air India Expands Asia Network with New Vietnam and Japan Routes
Air India announced two new international routes as part of its continued network expansion across Asia. The airline will launch non-stop flights between Delhi and Hanoi from 1 May 2026 using two-class Airbus A320neo aircraft operating five times weekly. Hanoi will become Air India’s second gateway in Vietnam after Ho Chi Minh City. In addition, Air India will introduce four weekly non-stop flights between Mumbai and Tokyo (Haneda) from 15 June 2026 using Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The airline has also increased frequencies between Delhi and Tokyo (Haneda) from four weekly to daily services and upgraded the route with Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
IndiGo Expands Gujarat Network with Bhavnagar Service
IndiGo announced the launch of 14 weekly direct flights between Bhavnagar in Gujarat and Navi Mumbai, effective 29 March 2026. The route will be operated using ATR72-600 aircraft. With this addition, Bhavnagar becomes IndiGo’s 97th domestic destination and its 142nd overall station, strengthening connectivity in western India and linking the industrial city more closely with the airline’s broader domestic and international network.
SpiceJet Reports Strong Q3 FY26 Performance
SpiceJet reported strong operating momentum for the third quarter of FY26, with revenue rising 77% year-on-year. The airline also recorded improved operating metrics supported by higher capacity deployment, stronger yields and disciplined network execution. During the quarter, SpiceJet’s domestic market share increased to 4.3% in December 2025, up from 1.9% in September, reflecting a gradual recovery in operational performance and network stability.
Acumen’s Take
On Air India’s Asia Expansion Strategy
The addition of Hanoi and expanded Tokyo services highlights Air India’s continued focus on strengthening its presence in key Asian markets. Growing tourism demand and deepening economic ties between India and Southeast Asia are likely to support sustained network growth.
On IndiGo’s Regional Connectivity Push
IndiGo’s new Bhavnagar route underscores the importance of regional aviation in India’s growth story. Expanding turboprop operations into smaller industrial cities allows airlines to stimulate new demand while feeding traffic into larger hubs.
On SpiceJet’s Operational Recovery
SpiceJet’s improved revenue and market share signal progress in stabilising its operations after a prolonged restructuring phase. Continued fleet activation and disciplined network planning will be critical to sustaining this recovery trajectory.
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