British Airways is preparing to significantly increase its presence in India, with plans for new routes, additional frequencies and expanded cargo capacity as the UK eyes deeper economic ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.
The airline, which currently operates 56 weekly flights across five Indian cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad – is now exploring new services and upgraded aircraft to support both passenger demand and growing trade flows. The expansion is being closely aligned with the anticipated signing of a long-awaited UK–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is expected to boost bilateral business travel and unlock new commercial opportunities.
British Airways’ managing director for South Asia, India and the Middle East, Moran Birger, told local media that the airline was “fully committed to India” and eager to capitalise on its economic momentum.
“India is one of our most important global markets,” Birger said. “We are continually evaluating how we can improve our connectivity and service offering – not just for passengers but also for cargo, which is playing an increasingly vital role in UK–India trade.”
The expansion plans come at a pivotal moment in UK–India relations. With Brexit redefining Britain’s international trading priorities, India has emerged as a key partner in the government’s Global Britain strategy. The two countries have been negotiating a comprehensive trade agreement since 2022, with recent progress suggesting a deal could be finalised within the next year.
Once signed, the FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on a range of goods and services, facilitate easier movement of professionals, and encourage more business travel between the UK and India’s top-tier cities and emerging tech hubs.
British Airways, which has served India for nearly 100 years, is aiming to position itself as the preferred carrier for both premium corporate travellers and SMEs looking to expand into the subcontinent.
Sources close to the airline indicate that new services to Pune, Ahmedabad or Amritsar could be considered, as well as frequency increases on existing routes to major business centres like Mumbai and Bengaluru. The deployment of more Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350 aircraft – featuring BA’s latest Club Suite product – is also under review.
Alongside its passenger services, British Airways is doubling down on air freight. Cargo volumes between the UK and India have surged in recent years, driven by high-value sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, automotive parts, and electronics. British Airways Cargo is exploring options to expand its freight network to serve Tier 2 cities in India, many of which are emerging as regional manufacturing and logistics hubs.
In a statement, IAG Cargo – British Airways’ parent company’s cargo division – confirmed that India was “a priority growth market” and that it was investing in new digital tracking and cold-chain capabilities to meet customer demand.
“We’re seeing strong appetite from UK exporters, particularly those in life sciences and e-commerce, for reliable and fast cargo links to India,” said an IAG Cargo spokesperson. “Enhanced connectivity will support British business in accessing one of the world’s most dynamic markets.”
British Airways’ renewed India strategy places it in direct competition with several Indian and Gulf carriers, many of whom are also expanding their UK operations.
Tata-owned Air India, for example, has embarked on an ambitious fleet renewal programme and recently announced non-stop services between London Gatwick and cities such as Goa and Kochi. The airline also plans to increase frequencies from Heathrow to Delhi and Mumbai. Meanwhile, IndiGo – India’s largest domestic carrier – has signalled its intention to launch long-haul services to London and other European cities, beginning in late 2025.
The Gulf carriers – Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad – continue to dominate the UK–India corridor, offering high-frequency one-stop connections via their Middle Eastern hubs. British Airways is betting that direct flights, improved business class cabins and the strength of its loyalty programme will appeal to time-sensitive corporate travellers seeking comfort and convenience.
“There’s no doubt the market is competitive,” said an aviation analyst based in Delhi. “But British Airways has brand loyalty, a legacy presence in India, and strong links with the business community. With the right strategy, it can grow its share of this key market.”
For corporate travellers, the airline’s expansion could not come at a better time. Post-pandemic travel demand between the UK and India has rebounded quickly, fuelled by increased investment in tech, education, healthcare, and renewable energy – sectors in which both countries have complementary strengths.
British Airways’ Executive Club members can expect increased availability of tier points and Avios on India routes, while businesses using the On Business loyalty scheme may benefit from special corporate rates as new services come online.
The airline is also enhancing its ground services in India, with refreshed lounges, biometric check-in trials, and strengthened codeshare agreements with domestic carriers such as Vistara to facilitate easier onward connections.
The India investment forms part of a broader push by British Airways to grow its long-haul network and strengthen its competitive position globally. In 2024 alone, BA has added new routes to Abu Dhabi, Riga, and Accra, and resumed services to Kuala Lumpur after a four-year hiatus.
As the world’s second most populous country and fifth largest economy, India presents a major growth opportunity – not just for British Airways, but for the UK aviation sector more broadly.
If the proposed Free Trade Agreement delivers on its promise, and if British Airways can stay ahead of the curve on routes, service and pricing, the sky could be the limit.
“This is not just a commercial opportunity,” Birger concluded. “It’s about connecting two global democracies, two innovation powerhouses, and two business communities with a shared ambition to grow. We’re proud to be part of that journey.”