The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, April 8, 2024: Tata Group-owned Air India and Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) have entered into an agreement seeking to develop Bengaluru as an aviation hub for southern India.The pact is also aimed at boosting air travel connectivity to and from India over the next few years. “The agreement marks a significant milestone in the Indian aviation industry. Air India (along with other Tata Group airlines – AIX and Vistara) and BIAL will collaborate to enhance international connectivity, operational efficiency, and passenger experience over the next five years,” said Air India in a press release on Monday. The agreement includes strengthening the airline’s presence at Kempegowda InternationalAirport, Bengaluru (KIAB or BLR airport) through an enhanced network and establishing a dedicated domestic lounge for premium and frequent travellers. “As part of this initiative, Air India has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Karnataka to establish comprehensive Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities at BLR airport,” Air India said. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India said that the pact with Bangalore airport is a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of Air India. He noted that airline-airport synergy is key to elevated customer experience and efficient operations. Hari Marar, Managing Director and CEO, BIAL, said that as the busiest airport in South India, Bangalore airport is dedicated to strengthening its position as the primary international gateway in Southern and Central India. “Given that over half of the international outbound travellers from Bengaluru and our catchment head to Europe, North America, Australia, and the Far East, our alliance with Air India represents a substantial leap towards this goal. We aim to capture a significant share of longhaul routes from BLR Airport over the next five years,” he said.
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