27 Nov 2025
#3 November 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Air India to Resume Operations to Mainland China
Air India announced it will resume non-stop flights between Delhi and Shanghai (PVG) from 1 February 2026, marking its return to mainland China after nearly six years. Subject to regulatory approvals, the airline also intends to launch non-stop Mumbai–Shanghai services later in 2026. Shanghai becomes the 48th international destination served by the Air India Group. The Delhi–Shanghai route will operate four times weekly using Air India’s 256-seat Boeing 787-8, configured with 18 Business Class and 238 Economy seats. CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson said, “This resumption is more than a route launch. It is a bridge between two great, ancient civilisations and modern economic powerhouses. We are happy to reconnect one of the world’s most vital air corridors, enabling travellers to pursue opportunities in business, trade, healthcare, education and culture with comfort and warm Indian hospitality.” The move is a significant milestone in Air India’s international network rebuild.
IndiaOne Air Signs LOI for up to Ten Twin Otter Series 300-G Aircraft
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada announced that IndiaOne Air has signed a Letter of Intent to acquire up to ten Twin Otter Series 300-G aircraft. Revealed at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, the agreement marks a major step for IndiaOne Air as it expands its regional fleet and strengthens domestic connectivity. The 300-G, the latest evolution of the Twin Otter platform, supports operations from short and unpaved runways—making it well suited to India’s remote and underserved regions. CEO Wg Cdr Prem Kumar Garg (Retd) said, “The Twin Otter 300-G is the most suitable aircraft for our expansion into regional destinations with shorter runways. Its performance, reliability and versatility align with our mission of connecting the unconnected and improving air travel accessibility across India.” The deal deepens De Havilland Canada’s presence in the Indian regional aviation segment.
IndiGo Connects Delhi and Manchester
IndiGo has launched direct flights between Delhi and Manchester effective 15 November, following the success of its Mumbai–Manchester service introduced earlier this year. The five-times-weekly flights are operated using a 338-seat Boeing 787-9 on damp lease from Norse Atlantic Airways. The aircraft features a two-class layout with 56 IndiGoStretch seats and 282 Economy seats. Manchester Airport—the largest UK hub outside London—offers strong onward connectivity to Northern England, including Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle. With this launch, IndiGo continues to cement its presence on India–UK corridors, supporting growth in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries. The route marks another step in IndiGo’s evolving long-haul strategy.
Acumen’s Take
On Air India’s Shanghai Resumption
Air India’s return to Shanghai reflects renewed diplomatic confidence and strong commercial potential between India and China. Reinstating the route strengthens Air India’s international portfolio and repositions the carrier on a major Asian corridor previously dominated by foreign airlines.
On IndiaOne Air’s Twin Otter Expansion
The LOI demonstrates IndiaOne Air’s commitment to niche regional connectivity. The Twin Otter 300-G is a proven platform for short take-off and landing operations, making it ideal for India’s UDAN and remote-access markets. This expansion strengthens India’s decentralised aviation growth.
On IndiGo’s Delhi–Manchester Launch
IndiGo’s continued push into the UK signals the airline’s intention to establish a firm long-haul footprint. Utilising the 787-9 through wet/damp lease partners provides flexibility while testing long-haul demand patterns ahead of IndiGo’s own widebody deliveries.
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