Bengaluru: In a bid to elevate Bengaluru into a leading aviation hub for southern India, Air India, under the Tata Group ownership, has joined forces with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Their collaboration aims to enhance air travel connectivity to and from the region in the years ahead.
Within the next five years, Air India, along with other Tata Group airlines like AIX and Vistara, will work alongside BIAL to improve international connectivity, operational efficiency, and passenger experience. As part of this agreement, there are plans to strengthen the group’s presence at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB or BLR airport), by expanding the network and establishing a dedicated domestic lounge for premium travelers of Tata Group airlines, Air India, and Vistara.
Additionally, Air India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Karnataka to develop comprehensive Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities at BLR airport. This move underscores Air India’s commitment to Bengaluru and aims to meet the rising demand for direct long-haul routes from southern India. The partnership is anticipated to create over 1,200 new job opportunities in the state.
Campbell Wilson, CEO & Managing Director of Air India, emphasized the importance of airline-airport synergy in enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency. He highlighted Bengaluru’s significance as both an origin and destination market and a connecting hub, expressing satisfaction in strengthening ties with BIAL to expand air connectivity and establish a significant MRO center.
Hari Marar, MD and CEO of Bangalore International Airport Limited, echoed the sentiment, stating BLR Airport’s commitment to becoming the primary international gateway in southern and central India. He stressed the alignment of their collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s vision of nurturing Indian airports as hubs. With a substantial portion of international outbound travelers from Bengaluru heading to various destinations, the alliance with Air India aims to capture a significant share of long-haul routes from BLR Airport over the next five years.
