Air India has entered into a codeshare agreement with Virgin Australia, enhancing connectivity for Indian travelers across 16 cities in Australia and New Zealand. The partnership allows Air India to place its ‘AI’ code on Virgin Australia-operated flights, offering seamless onward travel from Sydney and Melbourne.

Expanding Access to Key Destinations

Passengers flying with Air India from Delhi to Melbourne or Sydney can now connect effortlessly to destinations such as Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Gold Coast, and Perth, as well as Queenstown in New Zealand. The codeshare agreement ensures smooth baggage transfers on a single ticket, making travel more convenient.

This deal marks another step in Air India’s growing international network, following its recent codeshare partnership with Kenya Airways. With over 16 codeshare and 100 interline agreements worldwide, Air India continues to expand its reach and improve passenger experience.

Executive Insights on the Partnership

Alistair Hartley, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Virgin Australia:
“We are pleased to partner with Air India to make it easier for their customers to explore everything Australia has to offer. India is a growing tourism market for Australia, and this partnership will encourage travelers arriving on one of Air India’s 14 weekly flights to explore more of our wonderful country.”

Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India:
“Australia is one of Air India’s most important international markets. This partnership not only benefits the Indian diaspora across the continent but also opens up exciting destinations for holidaymakers eager to explore Australia’s beaches, Tasmania’s landscapes, or the Great Barrier Reef.”

Flight Details and Booking Information

Air India currently operates 14 weekly non-stop flights from Delhi to Sydney and Melbourne using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, featuring 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 seats in Economy Class.

Virgin Australia offers world-class service in both Business and Economy cabins for passengers connecting onward within Australia and New Zealand.

This strategic partnership marks a new era of enhanced travel convenience between India, Australia, and New Zealand.