Air India will operate the very first nonstop flights from Mumbai to Melbourne, Australia, as it expands its worldwide route network. Beginning December 15, 2023, Air India will operate three times per week between Mumbai and Melbourne, becoming the only non-stop operator between Mumbai and Australia.
The new Mumbai-Melbourne flights will add almost 40,000 seats each year to the Australian state of Victoria, where the Indian population is projected to reach over 200,000, accounting for roughly 40% of Australia’s total Indian diaspora. The additional services are intended to meet the increased demand for visits to friends and family, as well as business and leisure travel to the region.
Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial & Transformation Officer, Air India, said, “We look forward to launching the only non-stop flight between Mumbai and Melbourne. This is a great step forward in our ongoing transformation programme, which among other aspects aims at connecting India to more of the world with non-stop flights. We are excited to showcase the positively changing Air India flying experience to travelers on this route, of which great Indian hospitality will remain a cornerstone.”
Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Jobs and Industry, Victoria State Government, Australia, said: “We’re very excited that the first direct flights from Mumbai to Australia will land in Melbourne. This new route will boost tourism, create local jobs, and open more pathways for Victorian businesses to reach one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.” Travelers from 17 Indian cities can take convenient one-stop connections from Delhi or Mumbai to Melbourne. The new Mumbai-Melbourne route also provides nonstop two-way service between London Heathrow and Melbourne via Delhi and Mumbai.
