The planned expansion in air routes aligns with Australia’s broader goal of strengthening bilateral ties and meeting the rising demand from Indian visitors eager to explore more of what the country offers
Australia is inviting Indian carriers, including Air India and IndiGo, to operate flights to its upcoming Western Sydney International Airport, scheduled to open by late 2026, reported travelandtourworld.com.
Designed to function 24/7—unlike the current curfew-bound Sydney Airport—the new facility promises to significantly enhance air connectivity between the two nations.
Australian aviation authorities are in active discussions with Indian airlines to establish direct routes from major Indian cities. The move comes in response to a sharp surge in demand from Indian tourists, whose travel patterns have shifted post-pandemic towards longer stays and more premium experiences.
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India is now one of Australia’s fastest-growing inbound tourism markets. Indian travelers are staying longer—typically 7 to 8 nights—and spending more, especially on premium accommodations and unique cultural experiences
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Post-COVID, India was the first country to rebound in tourist numbers, with current figures outpacing pre-pandemic levels by two to three times
Currently, only two direct services connect India and Sydney—Air India’s daily Delhi service and Qantas’ Bengaluru route. The launch of additional routes by Air India and IndiGo could potentially double the direct flight capacity. Western Sydney Airport, located near Parramatta, a hub for Sydney’s Indian diaspora, recently completed its first runway trials and is targeting Indian carriers once they induct updated aircraft.
Beyond direct flights, Indian travelers also use connecting services via carriers such as Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and SriLankan Airlines, among others. However, the new airport’s 24-hour operations and strategic location are expected to provide a strong incentive for Indian airlines to launch non-stop services.
