India has become one of the busiest aviation hubs in the world, connecting millions of travelers every year to different parts of the globe. The demand for international travel is rising steadily. International Airlines in India play a major role in offering smooth connectivity, comfortable journeys, and reliable services in this growing travel environment.
India welcomes a wide range of foreign airlines that operate daily flights to major cities. These airlines help passengers reach destinations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, and the Americas with ease. Understanding them helps travelers make better decisions while planning their trips.
This article provides the complete list of International Airlines in India, along with their details, services, history, and the role they play in global travel.
What Are International Airlines in India?
International Airlines in India are foreign carriers that operate flights between India and other countries. These airlines connect Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata to major global destinations. They play a critical role in creating global connections for education, tourism, business, and international employment.
These airlines also help India strengthen its economy by boosting tourism, improving trade relations, and supporting international mobility. As the number of international travelers continues to rise each year, the presence of strong international airlines becomes even more important.
List of International Airlines in India (2025)
Below is the list of major International Airlines in India, along with their Indian hub airports and the year they started flying to India.
| Airline Name | Indian Hub Airport | Started Operating in India |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) | 1985 |
| Singapore Airlines | Chennai International Airport | 1970s |
| Lufthansa | Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (Mumbai) | 1960 |
| Qatar Airways | Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) | 2000 |
| British Airways | Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) | 1924 |
| Thai Airways | Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata) | 1960 |
| Etihad Airways | Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) | 2004 |
| Air Arabia | Various Airports in India | 2003 |
| Air France | Delhi & Mumbai | 1930s |
| Swiss International Airlines | Delhi | 2002 |
Major International Airlines in India and Their Details
Below is the detailed information about the leading international airlines operating in India. Each section explains its history, services, and global reach.
1. Emirates
Emirates is one of the most popular International Airlines in India and has been operating since 1985. Based in Dubai, the airline is known worldwide for luxury travel, excellent in-flight experience, and a massive global network. With a fleet of more than 300 aircraft, Emirates connects Indian passengers to destinations in Europe, America, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Emirates offers comfortable seating, top-notch entertainment, and world-class hospitality. Its strong presence in India makes it a preferred choice for millions of travelers every year.
2. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines is considered one of the best airlines in the world. It originally started as Malayan Airways in 1947 and became Singapore Airlines in 1974. The airline began operations in India in the 1970s and has built strong connectivity with multiple Indian cities.
It operates from Singapore Changi Airport, one of the most advanced airports globally. With flights to more than 140 destinations, Singapore Airlines is praised for its service quality, safety, and smooth flying experience.
3. Lufthansa
Lufthansa, one of the oldest airlines in the world, began flying to India in 1960. With a large fleet of more than 300 aircraft, it serves nearly 200 international destinations.
The airline is also the parent company of major airlines such as:
- Swiss International Airlines
- Austrian Airlines
- Eurowings
Lufthansa is widely trusted by business travelers and international students due to its reliability, punctuality, and premium facilities.
4. Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways started operations in 1994 and entered the Indian market in 2000. The airline is known for its excellent hospitality, premium cabins, and award-winning service. With a fleet of over 200 aircraft, Qatar Airways connects passengers to more than 150 destinations.
The airline is widely preferred by travelers heading to Europe, the US, and the Middle East due to its smooth connections through Doha.
5. British Airways
British Airways is the national airline of the United Kingdom and one of the longest-operating International Airlines in India. It began modern services in India in the 1970s. With a fleet of more than 250 aircraft, the airline provides strong connectivity to Europe and North America.
British Airways offers flights mainly from Delhi and Mumbai, making it a popular choice among students, working professionals, and tourists traveling to the United Kingdom.
6. Thai Airways
Thai Airways began operations in 1960 and has built strong connections with Asian and European cities. It operates flights from Delhi and Kolkata, offering easy travel to Thailand and connecting passengers to other international destinations.
The airline is also a founding member of the Star Alliance, which adds to its global network and reputation.
7. Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and entered the Indian market in 2004. With nearly 100 aircraft, the airline is known for high-quality service, comfort, and luxurious cabins.
Many Indian travelers prefer Etihad due to its convenient connections to Europe, Africa, and North America via Abu Dhabi.
8. Air Arabia
Air Arabia is a popular low-cost airline based in Sharjah. Started in 2003, it has become a major choice for budget-conscious travelers. The airline operates more than 90 aircraft and offers affordable flights between India and the Middle East.
Students, workers, and families often choose Air Arabia for economical and comfortable international travel.
9. Air France
Air France is one of the oldest international airlines in India and has been connecting India to Europe since the 1930s. With a fleet of over 200 aircraft, the airline serves nearly 200 destinations.
Air France offers flights from Delhi and Mumbai, providing easy connections to Europe, the Americas, and Africa.
10. Swiss International Airlines
Swiss International Airlines in India is the national airline of Switzerland and part of the Lufthansa Group. The airline operates with more than 90 aircraft and flies to destinations in 76 countries.
It is known for its excellent service, punctuality, and smooth travel experience. Swiss International Airlines flies mainly from Delhi, connecting travelers to Europe and beyond.
| Also Check |
|---|
| ICC Women’s ODI World Cup Winnersew |
| UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India |
| Children’s Day 2025 |
| World Organisations and Their Headquarters |
FAQs
Q.1. Which are the major International Airlines in India?
Ans. Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and British Airways are among the major international airlines.
Q.2. Do international airlines operate from all Indian cities?
Ans. Most operate from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
Q.3. Which is the best international airline for Europe travel?
Ans. Lufthansa, Swiss International Airlines, and Air France are preferred for Europe.
Q.4. Which budget international airline is popular in India?
Ans. Air Arabia is one of the most affordable and popular budget international airlines.
Q.5. Do international airlines offer direct flights from India?
Ans. Yes, many international airlines offer direct flights to Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
