AI to Aus, Dreamliners destined for direct duties

Air India plans to place three new Boeing Dreamliners on a direct service between India and Australia this year.

Although the aircraft have been covered in Air India’s livery and are ready to fly, Boeing and the Indian government are still in the process of finalising a compensation package agreement.

The Dreamliners were expected to be delivered in June of this year but considerable delays involving production strikes and the sourcing of parts has continually postponed the aircraft being dispatched.

India ordered 27 Dreamliners from Boeing in 2005, according to SMH.

Air India said operating a direct Australian service would enhance profitability and help to elevate the carrier’s performance.

“The Australia operation will commence in August-September,” Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh said.

There is equal interest from both the Australian and Indian government to establish these services.

Direct flights from India would boost trade, tourist and student links and are a priority for the Australian government, according to the Australian High Commissioner to India Peter Varghese.

The NSW and Victorian governments have provided allowances for Air India to fly to Australia.

Tourism Australia revealed research indicating up to 300,000 Indians could visit Australian shores annually by 2020 if growth in tourist numbers continues to advance.

Sourced: etravelblackboardasia