Air India plans international expansion from Varanasi under hub model

Air India prepares Varanasi connectivity with hub-and-spoke rollout

Air India has welcomed the Government of India’s move to operationalize a hub-and-spoke aviation model and confirmed plans to introduce international connectivity from Varanasi under this framework.

Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, said the initiative will support improved connectivity and more efficient use of airport infrastructure across the country. He also acknowledged the government’s and the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s roles in advancing the model.

The airline noted that coordination among stakeholders, including airlines, airports and government agencies, has been central to ensuring readiness across operations, passenger experience and security.

As part of its network expansion strategy, the airline is preparing to launch international services from Varanasi, improving access for travellers from surrounding regions and connecting the city to global destinations.

P. Balaji, Group Head – Governance, Risk, Compliance and Corporate Affairs at Air India, said the move reflects the airline’s focus on extending international connectivity beyond major metro cities, while reducing travel time and improving passenger convenience for travellers from Tier 2 and Tier 3 locations.

The hub-and-spoke model represents a shift in India’s aviation structure, supporting better aircraft utilisation and easing congestion at major airports by distributing passenger flows across multiple locations, including customs and immigration processes.

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