Air India has welcomed the Government of India’s push to operationalise the hub-and-spoke aviation model, calling it a transformative shift for the country’s aviation ecosystem. Aligning with this strategy, the airline is preparing to launch international connectivity from Varanasi, expanding global access beyond metro hubs.
Strategic shift in aviation model
The hub-and-spoke framework marks a fundamental transition for Indian aviation—from a largely point-to-point, end-destination market to a more integrated global transit network. The model is expected to enhance connectivity, improve passenger flows, and optimise utilisation of airport infrastructure developed across the country.
Strengthening tier-2 connectivity
As part of its network expansion, Air India’s planned international operations from Varanasi aim to strengthen connectivity for passengers across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The move is expected to reduce travel time, minimise congestion at major metro airports, and offer a more seamless travel experience.
Transformative step
Air India, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Campbell Wilson said, “This is a transformative step for Indian aviation. The hub-and-spoke model will not only strengthen connectivity but also ensure optimal use of airport infrastructure developed across the country.”
He also acknowledged the role of the Civil Aviation Ministry in driving stakeholder alignment, ensuring operational readiness, passenger convenience, and security considerations as the model moves towards implementation.
Expanding global aviation footprint
Air India, Group Head – Governance, Risk, Compliance and Corporate Affairs, P Balaji said, “The introduction of international hub-and-spoke connectivity from Varanasi underscores our focus on expanding India’s global aviation footprint beyond metros. It will provide tremendous boost to international travellers from India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities by cutting down travel time, while making travel seamless and convenient.”
Operational and efficiency gains
The hub-and-spoke model is expected to deliver multiple benefits for airlines and passengers alike. It will enable better aircraft utilisation, decentralise passenger processing such as customs and immigration, and reduce congestion at major airports by distributing traffic across spoke locations.
The bigger picture
With infrastructure investments ramping up across regional airports, the shift towards a hub-and-spoke system positions India to emerge as a competitive global transit hub. For Air India, the move signals a strategic expansion of its international network while tapping into the growing demand from non-metro markets.