Air India Express, a low-cost carrier owned by the Tata Group, has expanded its international operations by launching non-stop flights between Bengaluru, Tiruchirappalli, and Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The new routes will operate starting January 1, 2025, and January 2, 2025, respectively, and will be operated by the Boeing 737 MAX-8 aircraft. The flights will cater to the growing demand for direct connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia, particularly for Indian expatriates working in the Gulf region.
The Bengaluru-Dammam route will operate tri-weekly flights, while the Tiruchirappalli-Dammam route will operate bi-weekly flights. The flights are expected to attract a significant number of Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) traffic, as well as business travelers and pilgrims. The airline’s expansion into the Middle East market is expected to strengthen its foothold in the region and provide a competitive advantage in the market. Additionally, the airline’s commitment to providing affordable and efficient air travel is likely to attract a loyal customer base.