Air India plans to establish over 10 additional codeshare partnerships during this financial year with an aim to substantially enhance the airline’s connectivity across North America, Europe and Africa.Since its acquisition by the Tata Group approximately two years ago, Air India has signed 19 codeshare agreements, whilst previously having none. For comparison, IndiGo, which holds the position of India’s largest airline, maintains roughly 10 codeshare partnerships.Air India maintains codeshare arrangements with carriers like Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines and Air Canada, enabling connectivity to over 80 destinations. Additionally, its interline partnerships with 109 airlines provide access to more than 800 locations worldwide.The airline aims to achieve 25% yearly growth in its international operations over the next three-year period, with similar expansion already evident in FY25, an official told ET.“These partnerships are a critical part of our international strategy,” the official said. “They allow us to offer wider connectivity in markets where we don’t yet have a direct presence, especially in North America, Europe, and parts of Africa. They also help drive feeder traffic to our long-haul flights and improve aircraft utilisation.”Air India uses a dual international approach – expanding its footprint in secondary urban centres within strategic markets whilst accessing fresh territories through airline partnerships, as per officials.The collaborative arrangements now facilitate travel for over 25,000 passengers weekly, resulting in doubled passenger volumes and tripled booking income.According to DGCA statistics, Indian airlines transported 48.5% of international travellers to and from India in 2024. The Tata Group’s aviation entities – Air India, the recently integrated Vistara, and Air India Express – accounted for 26.1% of this share.“Expanding network reach is crucial for competing against Middle Eastern and European established airlines,” noted an informed source. “Each partnership enhances both geographical coverage and visibility in global reservation systems.”
