Lufthansa Group and Air India have signed a MOU that sets the foundation for a future Joint Business Agreement, strengthening cooperation between Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, ITA Airways, Air India and Air India Express .
The move comes as India and the EU finalise a landmark free‑trade agreement, creating the world’s largest free‑trade area and opening significant growth opportunities for aviation. Both regions account for a quarter of global GDP, and demand for travel between Europe and India continues to rise sharply .
For business travellers, the partnership aims to deliver better connectivity, coordinated schedules, shorter transfers and a more seamless premium experience across key European hubs and major Indian cities. The two airlines plan to expand joint marketing, integrate frequent‑flyer benefits and streamline airport processes to improve the end‑to‑end journey .
The Indian market is now Lufthansa Group’s second‑largest long‑haul premium market after the US, driven by a rapidly growing middle class and strong corporate demand. Air India’s expanding long‑haul network — including routes from Delhi and Mumbai to Frankfurt, Zurich, Vienna and Milan — complements Lufthansa Group’s extensive European and Indian coverage, with 146 codeshare routes already in place .
The Joint Business Agreement will require regulatory approval, but both airlines say the goal is clear: a deeper, more integrated partnership that supports rising trade, business travel and cultural links between India and Europe.
