Battle for Britain: Airlines add flights, roll out incentives to push sales
Delhi and London Heathrow airports account for the most traffic between India and the UK
Airlines are adding flights to London and offering incentives to travel agents to grow their share in the India-UK market.
This comes on the back of India-UK comprehensive economic and trade agreement that promises to increase travel and trade.
While Air India has introduced a fourth daily frequency from Delhi to London’s Heathrow Airport, IndiGo is set to begin its maiden flight between Mumbai and Heathrow in the winter schedule.
Rewards programme
Among international carriers Oman Air has announced its second daily service to London Heathrow from October end. Virgin Atlantic is running a rewards programme called Sky High Club for travel agents that allows them to collect points on ticket sales. These can later be redeemed for gift vouchers and other benefits.
“We have always believed in the power of partnerships and Sky High Club is our way of recognising the travel agents who make incredible journeys possible every single day,” said Shivani Singh Deo, country manager (India), Virgin Atlantic.
United Kingdom is the largest destination for Indian travellers in Europe with two-way traffic of 4.4 million in FY 2025. Delhi and London Heathrow airports account for the most traffic between India and the UK. Other UK destinations with direct connectivity include Birmingham and Manchester.
Heathrow spokesperson said: “We’re seeing growing interest in Indian destinations, and these new routes reflect Heathrow’s unrivalled global reach and the choice and convenience we offer our customers – made possible through the strong partnerships we have with airlines. This surge in demand highlights the strength of UK–India ties, with 46 per cent more passengers travelling between Heathrow and India in 2024 than in 2019.
Carriers including Air India, British Airways, IndiGo and Virgin Atlantic are scheduled to operate 42 daily flights between the two countries in October. West Asian carriers such as Emirates and Etihad carry a large share of traffic between the two countries.
Sufficient demand
“There is sufficient demand on the India-UK market for both non-stop and one-stop carriers,” said Sunil VA, Regional Vice-President, Oman Air.
“Our second daily flight will have a morning arrival in London and we will offer onward connections in partnership with British Airways,” he added.
With its large diaspora connect, student and corporate traffic, airlines have a steady demand round the year. Visit Britain, the country’s national tourism agency, is also looking to drive demand by promoting destinations beyond London and focusing on segments like sporting events.
“UK remains popular among Indian visitors and extra flights will definitely help,” said Rajat Bagaria, Director of Sristhi Tours & Travels.
Published on September 30, 2025
